Glass Bottom Boat – A window into The Great Barrier Reef

Glass Bottom Boat – A window into The Great Barrier Reef

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 03/23/2017

Reading time: 4 mins

Australia is well-known for a number of things, but few are comparable to the Great Barrier Reef off the country’s east coast.

Covering a total area of 344 000 km², this majestic reef is the world’s largest living organism. To help you to better wrap your head around this, you can see the Great Barrier Reef from space.

There are a number of excellent reasons to visit this phenomenal destination. You may want to snorkel above the colourful underwater world, swim in the ocean or even surf on the rolling waves. Whatever you decide to do, you’re sure to be awe-struck by the staggering beauty of the Great Barrier Reef!

You may, however, prefer not to get wet. Fortunately, this does not mean that you won’t have the chance to explore this magnificent coastline and all that it has to offer beneath the surface. You will have the chance to book a Glass Bottom Boat tour, which will provide you with a window into this watery wonderland.

How it works

These glass bottom boats, or semi-submarines, will allow you to stay dry and see the reef. You’ll sit below the water surface and watch as the underwater life moves around you. You don’t need bathers or any special equipment. It is the perfect choice for people who are not confident swimming or have young children!

The first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions the Great Barrier Reef is the colourful coral. Some people may view this coral from up close, kitted out with scuba equipment. However it can often take away from the beauty of taking a step back and seeing the reef as a whole. The magical tapestry of colour that is laid out before you aboard the glass bottom boat is absolutely breathtaking. The experience is further enhanced by the comfort of the boat. With your soft seat facing the window on the floor allowing you to sit, and peer curiously into the thriving waters.

If you realise during your trip that you would like to jump into the crystal clear water and get a closer look, you’re in luck! The glass bottom boat tours anchor and give you a chance to slip in. Put on some goggles and snorkels and take the plunge above this incredible reef.

Animals you might see

As if the beautiful coral wasn’t enough to hold your attention, these waters are also filled with marine life of all shapes and sizes. With a total of 1625 different species of fish, the Great Barrier Reef is certainly the perfect place to view schools of exotic fish. Gliding effortlessly through these schools of fish you will often spot a marine turtle. These splendid creatures display a remarkable beauty and grace as they cruise through the clear water. Dolphins and whales are also commonly spotted off the coast of Cairns on the Great Barrier Reef. Not to mention several species of sharks and rays as well!

One of the most significant inhabitants of the Great Barrier Reef that you may see is the dugong. This reef is home to one of the world’s most important dugong populations. Plus, since the reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they are very well protected.

Visiting the Great Barrier Reef is an experience that everyone should have in their lifetime. It is undoubtedly the world’s most spectacular reef, and it deserves its place as a wonder of the world. Viewing this phenomenal reef from the comfort of a glass bottom boat is truly unforgettable.

Glass Bottom Boat upgrades available on our Great Barrier Reef Tour.

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.