The Low Isles: Great Barrier Reef

The Low Isles in the Great Barrier Reef is a three and three quarter acre coral cay surrounded by 55 acres of reef. A coral cay is formed when coral breaks the surface of the ocean, then over time dirt and debris accumulate forming a small sandy island. Coral cays are the best types of reef island locations because the reef typically surrounds the island and offers excellent snorkelling onshore.

Note that many islands described as “on the reef” are in fact “continental islands” formed by an uprising in the ocean bottom. While these islands may be in the general area of the Great Barrier Reef, it may actually be many miles from the island to the nearest coral areas.

In the case of Low Isles, good coral viewing can be enjoyed close on-shore making snorkelling a very enjoyable experience. On the island itself there is a lighthouse and some bush.

The Low Isles are located not far from beautiful Port Douglas. Getting to the Low Isles from Port Douglas is a very pleasant one hour sail on a luxury sailing catamaran.

Things to do around the Low Isles

Snorkelling

Just about everyone chooses to spend some time snorkelling in the crystal clear waters around Low Isles. The coral is only a short distance under the surface and you get beautiful clear views of the kaleidoscopically colored and extraordinarily varied coral, complete with fish swimming gently through the coral from time to time.

If you’ve never snorkelled before, then we there are skilled instructors who will carefully coach you in how to put on the fins, mask and snorkel (all of which are supplied at no extra charge) and then make sure you’re entirely comfortable and confident with snorkelling. There is just about no-one who is too old (or too young) to enjoy time in the warm water snorkelling around as they wish.

For those with greater experience and confidence, there are guided snorkelling tours where one of the Marine Biologists leads a small group around various coral concentrations, explaining the origin and different types of coral that you’ll see.

Glass Bottom Boat Viewing

This is a “must do” part of your day - indeed many people take two or more trips on the coral viewing boats. Take a tour around several of the different types of coral concentrations at Low Isles, with the captain providing an informative commentary, explaining all about the sights that you’ll be seeing.
As well as coral of all shapes, sizes, and colors, there are also many different types of fish swimming around, and some fascinating giant clams on the bottom.

Guided Beach Walks

Every afternoon, one of the Marine Biologist staff leads interested people on a guided tour around the Low Isles. They will show you all manner of interesting examples of the varied marine life that live at the water’s edge and explain some more about how coral cays are formed.