Step into the future of coral conservation with the Forever Reef Project Tour. This exclusive, behind‑the‑scenes experience invites visitors to walk through a living coral biobank in Port Douglas, where scientists, conservationists, and volunteers collect, preserve, and propagate species from the Great Barrier Reef.

On the tour, you’ll gain rare insight into the delicate work of preserving coral biodiversity, understand why it matters, and see how coral fragments are tracked, cared for, and grown for future restoration efforts.

 

What Is the Forever Reef Project?

The Forever Reef Project is an ambitious conservation initiative by Great Barrier Reef Legacy. Its mission: to collect, catalogue, and preserve living specimens and genetic material from every hard coral species native to the Great Barrier Reef.

Over time, this biobank will become a “coral ark,” safeguarding biodiversity for reef restoration, research, and education.

With corals facing increasing threats — bleaching events, climate change, pollution — this living archive ensures these species survive, even if wild populations decline.

Located in Port Douglas, the biobank is open to the public and home to hundreds of live coral species maintained in specially designed aquarium systems.

 

Photo credit: Forever Reef Project - foreverreef.org

What You’ll See & Learn on the Tour

A typical Forever Reef Project Tour may include:

  • A guided walkthrough of tanks housing live coral fragments
  • Insight into coral collection, fragging, microchipping, and monitoring
  • How genetic sampling and cryopreservation (tissue storage) works
  • The challenges of coral husbandry: water chemistry, lighting, disease prevention
  • Behind-the-scenes access to restricted lab and research areas
  • The role of the biobank in reef restoration and global conservation strategies
  • You'll walk away with a deeper appreciation of the reef — and what it takes to preserve it.

 

Why Visit: Benefits & Highlights

  • Unique conservation insight – Learn directly from reef scientists and coral specialists
  • Inspiration & awareness – Discover what’s being done to save reef ecosystems
  • Photo & educational opportunity – Snap rare coral species and explore exhibits
  • Support real conservation – Your ticket helps fund the Forever Reef Project
  • Visit a world-first – One of the only open-to-public living coral biobanks globally

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the Forever Reef Project Tour?

A guided visit through the coral biobank, including live coral displays, lab areas, and expert explanations of conservation techniques.

Where is the Forever Reef Project located?

The project is based at the Port Douglas Superyacht Marina, North Queensland, Australia.

How long does the tour take?

Tours typically run between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on group size and access areas.

Is the Forever Reef Project Tour open to the public, or by appointment?

Yes, it is open to the public, but advance booking is highly recommended as space is limited.

Why is the Forever Reef Project important for coral conservation?

It preserves living coral species threatened by environmental changes, providing a genetic “library” for reef restoration and future research.

Can I support the Forever Reef Project without visiting?

Yes! You can donate, adopt a coral, or share the mission. Visit foreverreef.org for more.

 

Inspired to see it for yourself?

Join marine scientists and conservationists in an unforgettable behind-the-scenes experience at the world’s first living coral biobank. This is your chance to witness groundbreaking reef preservation in action — perfect for eco-conscious travellers, students, and anyone passionate about the Great Barrier Reef.

👉 Book your Forever Reef Project Tour here and be part of a global effort to protect coral species for generations to come.