Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland

The Ribbon Reef Region is part of the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland.

A stunning underwater shot of vibrant and colorful coral reefs, including brain coral and branching corals, teeming with marine life in the Ribbon Reefs region of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia.

Overview

Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland Cruise Port

The Ribbon Reef Region, a pristine and remote section of Australia's iconic Great Barrier Reef, is a dream destination for marine enthusiasts and expedition cruisers. Comprising a series of ten narrow, elongated coral reefs stretching northward from Port Douglas towards Lizard Island, this area is widely recognized as one of the most vibrant and untouched ecosystems within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Its remote location, adjacent to the continental shelf and deeper ocean trenches, ensures exceptionally clear waters and thriving coral formations.

A visit to the Ribbon Reefs offers unparalleled opportunities to explore an underwater wonderland teeming with an astounding diversity of marine life. It's a place where vibrant hard and soft corals create dazzling underwater gardens, and where encounters with everything from playful giant potato cod to majestic sea turtles and reef sharks are commonplace. This destination provides an intimate and awe-inspiring connection with one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders, making it a highlight for any cruise focused on natural exploration.

Top Things to Do in Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland

Snorkel the Pristine Coral Gardens

Immerse yourself in the warm, crystal-clear waters to snorkel the pristine coral gardens of the Ribbon Reefs. Discover a kaleidoscope of colorful hard and soft corals, alongside an incredible array of tropical fish, giant clams, and anemonefish, just beneath the surface.

Tip: Even if you're not an experienced swimmer, many cruise and tour operators provide flotation devices and guidance to ensure a comfortable and safe snorkeling experience.

Scuba Dive World-Famous Sites (for Certified Divers)

For certified divers, the Ribbon Reefs offer access to some of the world's most renowned dive sites, including the famous "Cod Hole" (home to friendly giant potato cod), "Steve's Bommie," and "Lighthouse Bommie." These sites are celebrated for their abundant marine life and spectacular coral formations.

Tip: If you're a certified diver, ensure your cruise itinerary explicitly mentions dives at these specific sites. Bring your certification card and logbook.

Encounter Diverse Marine Life

Keep an eager eye out for the diverse marine life that calls the Ribbon Reefs home. You might encounter majestic sea turtles (Green and Hawksbill), various species of reef sharks, graceful manta rays, barracuda, and countless species of colorful reef fish.

Tip: Be patient and observant; some of the most fascinating creatures, like nudibranchs or pygmy seahorses, are often small and require a keen eye.

Take a Glass-Bottom Boat or Semi-Submersible Tour

For those who prefer to stay dry, many operators offer glass-bottom boat or semi-submersible tours. These provide an incredible perspective of the underwater world, allowing you to view the vibrant corals and marine life without getting wet.

Tip: These tours often include commentary from marine biologists or naturalists, providing valuable insights into the reef's ecosystem.

Witness Seasonal Dwarf Minke Whale Encounters (June-July)

If visiting between June and July, you might have the unique and truly special opportunity to swim with dwarf minke whales. The Ribbon Reefs are one of the only places in the world where these curious whales are known to interact with humans, under strict regulations.

Tip: This experience is regulated by permits and whale behavior, so it's a privilege, not a guarantee. Follow all instructions from your guides carefully.

Learn from Onboard Marine Biologists and Naturalists

Enhance your understanding and appreciation of this precious ecosystem by participating in presentations and discussions led by onboard marine biologists and naturalists. They offer invaluable insights into the reef's ecology, conservation efforts, and the specific marine species you encounter.

Tip: Don't hesitate to ask questions! Their expertise can transform your visit into a deeply educational experience.

Cruises to Ribbon Reef Region

Moss-covered ancient Champa temples and brick structures stand amidst a lush jungle landscape at the My Son Sanctuary near Da Nang, Vietnam.

Exclusive Onboard Savings, Events & Reduced Fares with Mariner Society*

42-night Far East Holiday, Coral Triangle & Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Halong Bay (Hanoi)

Da Nang

Nha Trang

Phu My

Sihanoukville

Bangkok (Laem Chabang)

Koh Samui

Singapore

Puerto Princesa

Bitung

Jayapura

Rabaul

Kiriwina Island

Conflict Group

Townsville

Cairns

Great Barrier Reef

Ribbon Reef Region

Great Barrier Reef

Far North

Torres Strait

Darwin

Scenic Cruising: Batu Tara Volcano

Komodo

Benoa

Krakatoa (Krakatau)

+22 more

Aboard

Westerdam

From

Hong Kong, China

1 Sailing

Dec 20, 2026

Published prices from

$8,709

per person*

taxes & fees included

Cruise Details

Illuminated Singapore Marina Bay skyline at night.

Exclusive Onboard Savings, Events & Reduced Fares with Mariner Society*

28-night Legendary Coral Triangle & Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Puerto Princesa

Bitung

Jayapura

Rabaul

Kiriwina Island

Conflict Group

Townsville

Cairns

Great Barrier Reef

Ribbon Reef Region

Great Barrier Reef

Far North

Torres Strait

Darwin

Scenic Cruising: Batu Tara Volcano

Komodo

Benoa

Krakatoa (Krakatau)

+13 more

Aboard

Westerdam

From

Singapore, Singapore

1 Sailing

Jan 3, 2027

Published prices from

$6,199

per person*

taxes & fees included

Cruise Details

Exclusive Onboard Savings, Events & Reduced Fares with Mariner Society*

42-night Coral Triangle, Great Barrier Reef & Southeast Asia Cruise

Puerto Princesa

Bitung

Jayapura

Rabaul

Kiriwina Island

Conflict Group

Townsville

Cairns

Great Barrier Reef

Ribbon Reef Region

Great Barrier Reef

Far North

Torres Strait

Darwin

Scenic Cruising: Batu Tara Volcano

Komodo

Benoa

Krakatoa (Krakatau)

Singapore

Koh Samui

Bangkok (Laem Chabang)

Sihanoukville

Phu My

Nha Trang

Da Nang

Halong Bay (Hanoi)

+22 more

Aboard

Westerdam

From

Singapore, Singapore

1 Sailing

Jan 3, 2027

Published prices from

$8,814

per person*

taxes & fees included

Cruise Details

Up to $500 FREE Onboard Credit*+ 2 more offers

TCW EXCLUSIVE

60-night Grand Australia & New Zealand Cruise

Honolulu

Kailua-Kona

Kahului

Cross Equator

Pago Pago

Cross International Dateline

Apia

Savusavu

Suva

Lautoka

Easo

Noumea

Port Vila

Honiara

Rabaul

Alotau

Kiriwina Island

Conflict Group

Cairns

Great Barrier Reef

Ribbon Reef Region

Great Barrier Reef

Far North

Torres Strait

Darwin

Broome

Exmouth

Perth (Fremantle)

Albany

Adelaide

Penneshaw

Melbourne

Hobart

Port Arthur

+30 more

Aboard

Zaandam

From

San Diego, California

1 Sailing

Jan 4, 2026

Cruise Details

Governor Stirling statue in Perth, Western Australia.

Up to $500 FREE Onboard Credit*+ 2 more offers

TCW EXCLUSIVE

93-night Grand Australia & New Zealand Cruise

Honolulu

Kailua-Kona

Kahului

Cross Equator

Pago Pago

Cross International Dateline

Apia

Savusavu

Suva

Lautoka

Easo

Noumea

Port Vila

Honiara

Rabaul

Alotau

Kiriwina Island

Conflict Group

Cairns

Great Barrier Reef

Ribbon Reef Region

Great Barrier Reef

Far North

Torres Strait

Darwin

Broome

Exmouth

Perth (Fremantle)

Albany

Adelaide

Penneshaw

Melbourne

Hobart

Port Arthur

Sydney

Milford Sound

Fjordland National Park

Dunedin (Port Chalmers)

Timaru

Wellington

Tauranga

Auckland

Waitangi

Nuku'alofa

Cross International Dateline

Papeete

Opunohu Bay

Raiatea

Bora Bora

Fakarava

Taiohae

Cross Equator

+51 more

Aboard

Zaandam

From

San Diego, California

1 Sailing

Jan 4, 2026

Cruise Details

View All Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland Cruises

The reviews are in

Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.

I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very much [our Cruise Expert]!

Camille G.

Google Reviews

We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.

Linda F.

Google Reviews

[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.

Sharon E.

Google Reviews

I would like to mention that for many years I really appreciate to have [our Cruise Expert] taking care of my cruises in the states. So, i'm glad to give five stars for him

Rudi D.

Google Reviews

I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I would use [our Cruise Expert] and Cruise Web again to book another cruise...thank you...

Priscilla B.

Google Reviews

[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.

Sheralyn H.

Google Reviews

Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!

Wendy F.

Google Reviews

[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.

James C.

Google Reviews

We are residents in another country, and have used [our Cruise Expert] for years as we try to cruise around the entire world. She offers great service and stellar communication.

Dave O.

Google Reviews

[Our Cruise Expert]does a wonderful job for me. I have had no glitches and I can count on things running smoothly when [our Cruise Expert] makes my arrangements.

Barbara H.

Google Reviews

4.9Google

Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland Cruise Port

Top Things to Do in Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland

Snorkel the Pristine Coral Gardens

Tip: Even if you're not an experienced swimmer, many cruise and tour operators provide flotation devices and guidance to ensure a comfortable and safe snorkeling experience.

Scuba Dive World-Famous Sites (for Certified Divers)

Tip: If you're a certified diver, ensure your cruise itinerary explicitly mentions dives at these specific sites. Bring your certification card and logbook.

Encounter Diverse Marine Life

Tip: Be patient and observant; some of the most fascinating creatures, like nudibranchs or pygmy seahorses, are often small and require a keen eye.

Take a Glass-Bottom Boat or Semi-Submersible Tour

Tip: These tours often include commentary from marine biologists or naturalists, providing valuable insights into the reef's ecosystem.

Witness Seasonal Dwarf Minke Whale Encounters (June-July)

Tip: This experience is regulated by permits and whale behavior, so it's a privilege, not a guarantee. Follow all instructions from your guides carefully.

Learn from Onboard Marine Biologists and Naturalists

Tip: Don't hesitate to ask questions! Their expertise can transform your visit into a deeply educational experience.

Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland

Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland Cruise Port

Top Things to Do in Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland

Snorkel the Pristine Coral Gardens

Scuba Dive World-Famous Sites (for Certified Divers)

Encounter Diverse Marine Life

Take a Glass-Bottom Boat or Semi-Submersible Tour

Witness Seasonal Dwarf Minke Whale Encounters (June-July)

Learn from Onboard Marine Biologists and Naturalists

Cruises to Ribbon Reef Region

42-night Far East Holiday, Coral Triangle & Great Barrier Reef Cruise

$8,709

28-night Legendary Coral Triangle & Great Barrier Reef Cruise

$6,199

42-night Coral Triangle, Great Barrier Reef & Southeast Asia Cruise

$8,814

60-night Grand Australia & New Zealand Cruise

93-night Grand Australia & New Zealand Cruise

Ribbon Reef Region Cruise Lines

The reviews are in

Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland Cruise Port

Top Things to Do in Ribbon Reef Region, Queensland

Snorkel the Pristine Coral Gardens

Scuba Dive World-Famous Sites (for Certified Divers)

Encounter Diverse Marine Life

Take a Glass-Bottom Boat or Semi-Submersible Tour

Witness Seasonal Dwarf Minke Whale Encounters (June-July)

Learn from Onboard Marine Biologists and Naturalists

Cruises to Ribbon Reef Region

42-night Far East Holiday, Coral Triangle & Great Barrier Reef Cruise

$8,709

28-night Legendary Coral Triangle & Great Barrier Reef Cruise

$6,199

42-night Coral Triangle, Great Barrier Reef & Southeast Asia Cruise

$8,814

60-night Grand Australia & New Zealand Cruise

93-night Grand Australia & New Zealand Cruise

Ribbon Reef Region Cruise Lines

The reviews are in