"Cairns - Barrier Reef Portal" a Cairns Travel Page by pedroswift

Cairns is probably the first city that people think of as far as getting to the Barrier Reef goes. Check the map - there are alternatives. From Bundaberg in the south to Cooktown in the far north there are cities providing boat trips to reef areas.
As one goes further north the distance to the outer reef decreases. This puts Cairns in the prime position for day trips to the reef. Cairns Climate
Keep in mind the the
Beach Nasties in Tropical Queensland.

Nov 2007 PREDICTION OF STINGER NUMBERS

Brisbane is just too far south so don't turn up there expecting to "go for an afternoon drive to see the GBR".

By the way the most dangerous physical activity that you can indulge in while in Cairns has nothing to do with adventure sailing, snorkeling, rafting , or swimming with sharks, stingers, or stingrays. It's more mundane than those activities

One degree rise in surface water temperature at the wrong time of year is enough to cause the migration of algae that gives coral its brilliant colouring. Reef areas are already showing seasonal bleaching. Climate change due to green house gasses??? Get to see the reef before it is too late!! Read more

Cairns is also the logical starting point for a trip out West to the Gulf Savanna Lands.