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The Great Barrier Reef stretches for over 1200 miles at a distance of 10 to 90 miles off the Australia's Queensland coastline just a few to many metres beneath the sea surface. The reef is the result of over 20 million years of calcareous secretions from minute plant like polyps together with algae, plant and marine animal waste. This vibrant multi coloured living structure is the home for thousands of plant and vividly coloured tropical fish species as well as turtles, sharks, elegant rays and countless shell-fish. The stunning hypnotic reef structures can be viewed by glass-bottomed boat, submersible and of course by snorkeling or scuba diving. There are also many islands and cays distributed amongst the reef, some of which have holiday resorts which offer a truly unique and beautiful location. As the reef stretches from Rockhampton to past Cooktown there are many access points along the Queensland coast. The Great Barrier Reef is a protected marine park and to preserve this eighth wonder of the World for future generations visitors are kindly requested to look but not touch.