Coral
Sea
Seabird, Whale and Dolphin Cruise
Several
spaces are still available for the Coral
Sea Island scientific
expedition, departing Mackay Queensland on the 11 December 2006 and
returning on 20 December 2006. This 9-day cruise with Tura Charters (www.turacharters.com.au) will cost $2,495.00 per person*.
The aim is to relax, enjoy the tropical ocean and document cetaceans and pelagic
seabirds occurring in the Coral
Sea Island
Territory.
There
have been several trips across the Coral Sea this year documenting, amongst
other things, Audubon's Shearwaters, Tristram's Storm Petrel, Herald Petrel and
possible Collared Petrels and Beck's Petrel. This area is very poorly documented
and is a potentially exciting 'frontier' prospect for pelagic birding in
Australia. The expedition will take us out beyond the Great Barrier
Reef and along the outer reef edge before turning east and heading out to
Flinders Reef and thereafter cruising around the Coral
Sea islands. We will be cruising throughout each day and making
anchorage each afternoon for snorkelling or diving. There will also be
opportunities for island visits to observe seabird colonies.
The Tura
is a fully licensed 78 foot motorised vessel. She has a cruising speed of
approximately 10 knots, is air-conditioned and comfortably berthed. The Tura is
equipped with dive facilities and for those with the relevant dive certificates,
this service is offered. There may be a nominal hire charge for equipment if
required.