The Great Barrier Reef is the largest reef system in the world. Covering an area of 135,000 square miles, it is bigger than the United Kingdom, Holland and Switzerland combined. Lay it out across Europe and it would reach from London to Moscow, making it is the largest living structure in the world and the only one visible from outer space. 

Today, we’re going to the best place in the world to experience it: Tropical North Queensland. And we’re in good company with Dr Eric Fisher, a marine biologist who specializes in the Great Barrier Reef. This is a conversation is about one of the great wonders of the natural world, and what it’s like to see it first-hand. But it’s also about something special that Eric has introduced: Dreamtime Dives.

Most experiences on the reef tell its story from a western viewpoint. Eric has developed a new program where you can explore it from an indigenous perspective too. Guided by Aboriginal Sea Rangers, whose connection to the reef stretches back over 60,000 years, it’s an opportunity to see the reef from a new perspective, and in doing so perhaps learn things about the reef we never knew before. 

FIND OUT MORE

Thanks again to Down Under Endeavours for partnering with us on this episode. They are the Tropical North Queensland experts and helped to connect us with the awesome guest you heard from today. 

If the Great Barrier Reef is on your bucket list, head over to DownUnderEndeavours.com/Armchair to find out how you can see it for yourself. They’ve got lots of great ideas, and you book with them you’ll get $500 off your next trip. It’s a great way to support the show. (and please note my American friends, ‘endeavour’ is spelt the proper British way with a U at the end  )

CONNECT WITH TODAY’S GUEST     

Experience Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel at ReefUnlimited.com

Find out more about Eric’s research and conservation work at gbrbiology.com

If you're into real stories of epic places told by the people who’ve lived them, make sure to subscribe—that way you choose the adventure, not the algorithm. 

Instagram: @armchairexplorerpodcast

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Presented by: Aaron Millar

Audio & Sound Design: Charles Tyrie

Produced by: Armchair Productions

Mentioned in this episode:

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