Fantasea Reef Sleep.

Liz and I recently joined Fantasea Adventure Cruising on a trip to Hardy Reef. This time would be decidedly different because we would be staying overnight in the 'King Room' Accommodation on Fantasea's Reef Platform. The Reef Sleep experience really begins to take effect immediately our fellow passengers depart on the ferry for home. As we watched them slowly disappear into the distance we sat on the top deck of the pontoon sipping champagne with only ourselves and the seabirds for company. A gentle breeze gave voice to the ocean softly lapping at our remote marine structure just 40 nautical miles NE.from our home at Shute Harbour. The opportunity to dive, snorkel or just relax completely in almost absolute isolation is a truly unique holiday experience that is only available in Australia here on Hardy Reef at The Fantasea Reef Platform. The afternoon gave way to a balmy tropical evening as we prepared to enjoy an alfresco dining delight as the sun sank slowly on the western horizon.After dinner we spent a considerable time in the underwater viewing chamber watching the many varieties of fish that frequent this part of The Hardy Reef System before retiring to bed for an early start before dawn the next day. Five - thirty am with coffee on the upper deck we sat and watched the ever changing colours of the sky in the pre-dawn light. The birds had begun to stir from their resting places aboard the helipads as the sun announced another beautiful day in paradise. A beautiful sunrise, complete solitude, and a few more hours before the peace gives way to a host of new visitors. A couple of green turtles decided to munch away at the marine growth on the pylons as the birds circled and dived into the shimmering waters. Being in the open air always brings on a ravenous constitution hence breakfast and coffee, served by our host was devoured with alacrity. Snorkelling and relaxing followed until finally the morning ferry arrived with the accompanying sounds of excited visitors. The Reef Sleep over, we still had a few more hours to relax in the sun and contemplate what was a truly remarkable experience that we will remember until the next time round. For more pictures and a full report please visit The Queensland Armchair Guide Website. For bookings visit The Fantsea Cruises Website.

Tropical Sunrise at Hardy Reef. George the Hardy Reef Giant Grouper.