Get ready for a truly unforgettable experience – a perfect mix of island relaxation, ocean adventure, and meaningful conservation!
Join us on a journey from Byron Bay to the world-famous Heron Island Research Station, where we’ll explore the Great Barrier Reef, learn about marine life, and contribute to real sea turtle research.
$1000pp deposit* at time of booking confirmation – remenance to be paid 4 weeks prior to departure
🌊 Trip Overview
- Departure: February 26, 2026 – from Byron Bay
- Return: March 3, 2026 – back to Byron Bay
Our journey takes us north to Gladstone, across the Capricorn Channel to Heron Island, and then to Bundaberg–Mon Repos before heading home. Along the way, you’ll experience Australia’s incredible coastlines, reef ecosystems, and turtle nesting grounds.
🐢 Highlights
Heron Island Research Station Stay
Spend a few magical days on Heron Island, surrounded by turquoise waters and coral reefs. We will be staying in the Research Station, an opportunity to enjoy a couple of days of relax in a unique setting!
We will be there in peak hatchling season, with a full moon – the perfect conditons for baby turtles to hatch! We will do sunrise and sunset walks, to make sure we have the best chances of assisting to the magic moment of baby turtles running to the ocean!
You’ll take part in snorkelling sessions designed for photo-identification of sea turtles, a fun and simple way to support our research. Between adventures, unwind on the beach, swim in crystal-clear lagoons, and join our talks about sea turtles, coral reefs, and conservation. We will have two full days (Saturday and Sunday) plus Friday afternoon for our activities. The exact program will be consolidated closer to the date as we will need to verify conditions and tides, to ensure we pick the right time for our snorkelling!
SCUBA diving is available at an extra cost – make sure your certifications and medical are up to date!
Gladstone Stopover
Before we head to the island, we’ll enjoy a comfortable night in Gladstone – the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Settle in, have a delicious meal, and get ready for your island adventure.
Catamaran Transfer
Our scenic catamaran ride to Heron Island is part of the fun! Keep your eyes open for dolphins, seabirds, and maybe even turtles along the way. We’ll hop on the ferry Friday early morning, and will board it again Monday around midday to get back – it takes approximately 3 hours each way, and can be a bumpy ride, so make sure you are equipped with sea sickness pills if you are prone to it!
Mon Repos Experience
On the return journey, we’ll stay overnight in Bundaberg, home to one of Australia’s most iconic turtle nesting beaches. Enjoy a guided Turtle Encounter experience with the Mon Repos Research Station and witness hatchlings making their way to the ocean under the stars – a truly magical moment.
🏡 What’s Included
- Road transport from and to Byron Bay
- Catamaran transfers (return)
- Vessel for snorkelling off the reef
- Full snorkelling gear – mask, fins, snorkel, and 5mm full wetsuit (the water temperature should allow us to not need the wetsuit, but it is available if needed)
- Professional marine scientist guides
- Accommodation in Gladstone, Heron Island, and Mon Repos
- Full board on Heron Island
- Internet access codes on Heron Island
- Guided Mon Repos Turtle Encounter
🚫 What’s Not Included
We’ve covered almost everything to make your experience smooth and carefree, but a few things aren’t included in the trip package:
- Flights or long-distance transport to and from Byron Bay (if you’re joining from elsewhere)
- Personal travel insurance – we recommend arranging this before departure
- Meals and drinks outside of Heron Island Research Station (Heron Island Resort, Gladstone, and Mon Repos stays)
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, extra snacks, or optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Diving equipment hire (snorkelling gear is provided, but as scuba diving is optional, the appropriate gear can be booked separately)
- Medical expenses or medications
If you’re unsure about anything, just reach out — we’re happy to help you plan or recommend trusted local providers.
🎒 What to Bring
Pack light, stay comfortable, and be ready for both adventure and relaxation! Here are some essentials we recommend bringing along:
- Lightweight clothing – breathable, quick-dry clothes for warm island weather
- Swimwear – you’ll be spending plenty of time in the water!
- Reef-safe sunscreen – help protect your skin and the coral reefs
- Hat, sunglasses, and reusable water bottle – stay sun-safe and hydrated
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring the island and beaches
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Camera or GoPro – for capturing your turtle encounters and stunning reef views
- Light jacket or jumper – evenings can be breezy
- Curiosity and a sense of adventure!
Don’t worry – we’ll provide all necessary snorkelling gear and research materials on Heron Island. You just need to bring yourself, your enthusiasm, and a love for the ocean!
🌴 A Holiday with Purpose
This is not just another holiday – it’s a chance to relax, explore, and make a difference. You’ll have plenty of free time to enjoy the island while also learning how your participation helps researchers understand and protect sea turtles.
Join us for a unique blend of adventure, education, and conservation – the ocean is calling!
FILL OUT THE FORM TO RECEIVE MORE DETAILS AND TO CONFIRM YOUR BOOKING
*Deposit is non refundable even in the case of cancellation or rescheduling and will need to be paid via bank deposit to confirm booking – an invoice will be sent with bank account details. The deposit amounts to $1000 per person, even in the case of more people in the same booking (ex. one booking with 2 people: $2000 deposit). All pricing in Australian Dollars.