Orpheus Island Day Trip, what an incredible experience!
Kingsley is a 2025 Student Ambassador with Study Townsville who is from Nigeria and studying a Master of Social Work at @James Cook University in Townsville. Kingsley shares his experience visiting Orpheus Island, a tour undertaken with a group of 2025 Study Townsville Student Ambassadors.
Just off the North Queensland coast, Orpheus Island is a true gem in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area. It lies around 110 km north of Townsville and offers dramatic volcanic geology, dry woodlands, and coral-fringed shores.
When I visited, it was my first time snorkelling and it felt like a whole new world especially for me who has a phobia for water. The reef just off the beach around Pioneer Bay (or near the research station) is superb: colourful corals, abundant fish, maybe even manta rays if you’re lucky. The water was calm and clear and I got to enjoy floating above the reef, spotting creatures and feeling immersed in nature.
Apart from snorkelling, I also did the hike up to a viewpoint: walking through forest and up to rock outcrops offers sweeping vistas of the turquoise sea, the fringing reef and neighbouring islands, believe me, the view is out of this world. The experience helped me connect with the region as a student living in Townsville, it shows how nearby nature can be astonishing.
What I found especially meaningful was the island’s dual nature of adventure and tranquillity. I got to know the traditional owners of the land and respect the reef by not touching or harming any creatures. On the one hand, I had the excitement of the underwater world; on the other, the hush of remoteness and the sense of being away from the bustle. The island is relatively undeveloped in many parts and includes national-park areas, so you feel that you’re in a protected environment.
Personal tips:
•Arrive prepared with good snorkel gear. Don’t stress if you do not have gear as it is provided for you by the tour – I myself did not have one haha.
•Make sure to wear a life jacket if you’re like me who does not know how to swim.
•Choose a calm, clear day for best visibility- I recommend autumn/summer.
•Stay alert for marine life and follow reef-safe practices.
•Take your time on the hike: it’s not overly long but the view rewards the effort.
•Bring a camera or underwater camera if you have one — this sort of destination lends itself to memorable shots.
As a student studying here given this opportunity, I can only say a big thank you and appreciate the opportunity to have this experience.
