Things To Do On The Great Barrier Reef

One of the most luxurious Great Barrier Reef resorts, Orpheus Island Lodge offers a variety of enriching activities. We make it so easy to explore the Great Barrier Reef, whether you want to paddle around the neighbouring bays in a kayak, embark on a sailing excursion or venture beneath the surface while scuba diving. Here’s a handful of our favourite things to do on the Great Barrier Reef.

Things To Do On The Great Barrier Reef

Snorkelling

Unlike most Queensland resorts, every guest at Orpheus Island Lodge has unlimited use of snorkelling equipment during their stay. Combine this with a number of fringing coral reefs metres from the lodge and you’ve got a unique opportunity to explore the Great Barrier Reef at your leisure. There are so many snorkelling spots on the Great Barrier Reef, but some of our favourites include the protected Giant Clam Garden and Bramble Reef.

Kayaking

Active travellers might prefer to paddle in Orpheus Island’s secluded bays in a kayak. Borrow a kayak from the lodge and cruise from one sheltered bay to the next, stopping occasionally to explore a desolate beach or the verdant mangroves. As you kayak, you can easily spot the vibrant Great Barrier reef fish, rays, sea turtles and even reef shark in the crystalline water.

Dinghy Adventure

Want to pack some supplies and head out for the day? Take advantage of the motorised dinghies at Orpheus Island Lodge. Venture to one of the many private beaches or quieter reefs around the island for some snorkelling, fishing or simply to have a Captain Cook. We can even have our experienced chefs prepare you a picnic for a leisurely lunch.

Sailing

Orpheus Island Lodge is one of the best Great Barrier Reef resorts for sailing, thanks to the secluded bays around the island. You can take out our catamaran for a relaxing sailing excursion that reveals even more of Orpheus Island’s natural spoils. White-sand beaches, vibrant fish and crystal-clear waters await. You might even be joined by a turtle or two if you’re lucky.

Fishing

There’s a reason the Great Barrier Reef is popular with fishing enthusiasts. The region is teeming with fish ideal for sports fishing, including Spanish Mackerel, Black Marlin and Dog Tooth Tuna. You can embark on a chartered fishing trip to the outer reefs. The chartered experience includes a skipper, fishing gear, refreshments and snacks. Alternatively, reef species like Coral Trout, Red Emperor, Giant Trevally and Sweetlip can all be caught locally around Orpheus Island.

Stand-Up Paddle Boarding

A relatively new Great Barrier Reef activity, stand-up paddle boarding is a fun and adventurous experience. It’s great exercise for active types and also offers an opportunity to spot fish, sea turtles, rays and reef shark swimming in the waters around Orpheus Island. Within Hazard Bay, you can paddle board over the Giant Glam nursery at certain tides.

Helicopter Adventures 

There’s something unprecedented about witnessing the Great Barrier Reef from the sky. Not only can you better appreciate the size of this world-famous reef, but you also feel completely transported to an otherworldly landscape. Sit back in the comfort of a helicopter while the ocean, reefs and islands fan out beneath you. 

Nautilus Aviation offers a range of Great Barrier Reef helicopter adventures. These include scenic flights combining the rainforest and the reef, trips to the white-sand Vlasoff Cay and tailored helicopter experiences. You can even combine your scenic flight with snorkelling at Green Island, a Daintree River cruise or the Kuranda Scenic Rail.

DIY Research Volunteering 

At Orpheus Island Lodge, there are always opportunities for eco-conscious guests to help protect and preserve the Great Barrier Reef. DIY research volunteering is just one of the eco tours on Orpheus Island. It lets you contribute to the important studies of the reef, from the mangroves and coral cays to the manta rays and turtles.

As a volunteer, you can collect data on a specific subject during your own time. This data will then be used by professional scientists, reef managers or conservation groups to produce real changes that will help the reef. It’s not only an opportunity to contribute to a great cause, but also the perfect excuse to become more familiar with one of the world’s greatest natural wonders.

Visit the Museum of Underwater Art

The Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA) is a truly unique experience spent admiring underwater sculptural installations created by Jason deCaires Taylor. These incredible pieces of art capture the culture, natural beauty and rich history of the reef. Guests at Orpheus Island Lodge can explore the Southern Hemisphere’s first-ever underwater museum on guided diving tours from the resort.

As you swim from one sculpture to the next, you’ll learn more about the reef and the First Nations people. The museum is also a champion for all the reasons the Great Barrier Reef needs protecting. The Coral Greenhouse in particular spreads the message of reef conservation. It’s home to 20 “reef guardians” breeding coral and attracting various marine animals.

Jason Taylor used natural materials for his sculptures, creating a strong bond between the art and the reef. They also provide new homes for various underwater creatures. The tour includes a private charter to the reef housing the underwater museum.

Here at Orpheus Island Lodge we offer a range of things to do at the Great Barrier Reef. There are so many ways to experience this incredible part of the world, so why not try them all or at least a few. Looking for your next Great Barrier Reef adventure? Browse our range of accommodation options online.

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