Day 55 – Cairns, Australia

Tim and I woke up this morning in Cairns, Australia, only our second overnight stop so far on this cruise. Our plan for the day was the included excursion, “Cairns Aquarium,” described as follows:

Explore the Great Barrier Reef without having to get wet during a visit to the Cairns Aquarium. A world-class venue for observing and interacting with the vast array of flora, fauna and habitats that are endemic to Australia’s wet tropical region, the aquarium’s mission is to protect the biodiversity of the Daintree and Great Barrier Reef ecosystems. Upon arrival at the aquarium, receive a short orientation, then enjoy free time for independent exploration. Expert educators will be positioned throughout the premises to help you learn about the amazing creatures housed here. As part of your tour, Viking is contributing funds to the Turtle Rehabilitation Center and the world’s first living coral biobank, part of the aquarium’s efforts to safeguard all 400 species of Great Barrier Reef hard coral. Afterward, you return to your ship by coach or on foot along the esplanade.

Since neither Tim nor I snorkel, the idea of exploring the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet was quite appealing. The Cairns Aquarium, however, showcases many more ecological zones than that. It is home to more than 16,000 underwater and land-based creatures from ten diverse ecosystems.

One of the First Land-Based "Creatures" We Saw - Cleaning the Tanks

All the fish and other aquatic organisms at the aquarium are native to Cairns and Tropical North Queensland, Australia. It was interesting to learn that Queensland is the only place in the world where two UNESCO World Heritage Sites meet. These are the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. Both are represented at the aquarium.

Our journey through the aquarium took us from freshwater rivers that flow through the rainforest, into the mangroves, and finally into the depths of the Great Barrier Reef. Along the way, we watched several presentations from the knowledgeable aquarium staff.

Below are just a few of the fish and other aquatic organisms that caught my eye. 

River Monsters Amphitheater

Emerald Tree Monitor, Freshwater Turtle, and Boyd's Forest Dragon

Life in the Mangroves

Coral Reef

Painted Crayfish - Two Were Fighting

Common Lionfish

Common Seahorses

Oceanarium

After leaving the aquarium, Tim and I walked along the Esplanade, a promenade that parallels the waterfront. We then turned onto one of the main streets to check out a market, but it was closed, but we did see a few more historic buildings along the way. By this time, I was so hot that I couldn’t wait to get back to the ship. Ah, air conditioning! Finally!

Along the Esplanade

A Few More Historic Buildings

A few days ago, I mentioned that Hotel General Manager Ronald has a growing collection of animals on his desk. I added to that menagerie today when Tim and I purchased a turtle at the aquarium. He seemed quite pleased with this addition.

Hotel General Manager Ronald, His Menagerie, and His Newly-Acquired Turtle

While we were at the aquarium, I also purchased a mini bag featuring Aboriginal art. I had been looking for a bag in which to carry my phone and key card while on the ship, and this one was perfect.

The Artist and Story Behind My New Bag