July 18 - 21, 2025
Just
8
Spots Left
Get ready for a ripper of an adventure led by none other than Mark Fitz, our master storyteller and award-winning photographer. With Mark at the helm, your journey to Lady Elliot Island becomes more than just a getaway; it's a pursuit for that once-in-a-lifetime shot of breathtaking manta rays, in one of the Southern Great Barrier Reef's most cherished marine havens.
From the moment you touch down on this remote coral cay, consider your adventure mode fully activated. Say g'day to each new day with Mark as you plunge into the clear waters during daily sunrise snorkels. Elevate your photography game with Mark's hands-on Photography Masterclasses, designed to help you ace that manta ray capture. Hop aboard our private boat to uncover secluded underwater paradises, and deepen your reef savvy with guided walks. With three nights at at the world-renowned Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort, and daily feasting on buffet breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, all your creature comforts are well catered for.
And because we know the experience shouldn't just stay on the island, you’ll receive a gallery of masterfully captured photos from the trip. This isn't just a journey; it's a meticulously curated, visual storytelling experience designed to resonate long after you've returned home.
Mark isn't just an award-winning photographer; he's a marine life maestro whose enthusiasm is infectious. His specialised focus means you’re learning from one of the best, while his dynamic approach will inspire you to see the ocean and its inhabitants in a whole new light. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned with a camera, Mark's insights will elevate not just your photography, but your entire perception of marine life.
When you travel with Mark, your journey transforms into something much larger than individual exploration. His advocacy for marine life and sustainability means you're not just a tourist but an ocean advocate. He'll inspire you to see not only marine life but also your role in its conservation in a transformative way.
Mark understands that photography is as unique as the individual behind the lens. Whether you're grappling with ISO settings or looking to capture that perfect shot, his personalised, hands-on guidance ensures you'll leave with more than just photos. You'll also gain skills and insights that will last a lifetime, all while having an adventure you'll never forget.
Soar, Snap, and Snorkel
Start your adventure at Hervey Bay, where you'll meet the rest of the group and your storyteller guide, Mark Fitz. Board your charter flight to Lady Elliot Island, and don't forget to keep your camera ready; the aerial views offer breathtaking photo ops of the island and the surrounding reef.
Upon touching down, head over to the restaurant at Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort for a laid-back Q&A session with Mark. Here, your Airguides expedition leader will also set the scene for your stay, detailing the activities in store and addressing any initial questions you might have.
Waste no time in getting your feet wet—literally. Join Mark for a snorkel tour right off the beach, and meet some of the local underwater residents. From turtles and manta rays to sharks and a colourful array of fish, Lady Elliot Island's reefs are brimming with life.
As evening descends, relish a buffet dinner at the Eco Resort's restaurant. Listen to Mark share his journey and unshakeable passion for the marine life of the Southern Great Barrier Reef.
Overnight stay at Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort.
Mastering Marine Photography with Mark
Start your day in the twilight with a sunrise snorkel led by Mark. Dive into some of the planet's most extraordinary snorkel sites, right at your doorstep on Lady Elliot Island.
Return to the Resort for a hearty breakfast that'll fuel your upcoming adventures.
Take part in lagoon low tide walks, offering a different view of the island's diverse ecosystem. You’ll be surprised at what you discover when the tide pulls back.
Satiate your mid-day hunger at the restaurant before diving back into the azure waters for guided snorkelling around the various vibrant reefs surrounding the island.
Hone your skills in underwater photography with Mark’s Masterclasses, specially designed to teach you the art of capturing manta rays in all their majesty.
As the sun sets, enjoy a group dinner in Lady Elliot's restaurant.
After dinner, explore the island's nocturnal side with a guided reef walk tour. Discover what lies beneath the waves as darkness falls over the island.
Crown your evening with a unique experience—lagoon night snorkelling using UV torches. Illuminate the fluorescent corals and witness a spectacular underwater light show.
Head back to the Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort for a restful sleep.
Underwater Exploration and Masterclass Before Takeoff
Your last day on Lady Elliot Island kicks off with an unmissable sunrise snorkel alongside Mark. As the dawn light floods the ocean, seize the opportunity to photograph some of the world’s most striking underwater scenes one last time.
After your aquatic morning adventure, gather with the group for a buffet breakfast at the Resort. But it's not just about the food; it's also your chance to refine your photography skills. Mark will lead an Editing Masterclass, revealing the tips and tricks to elevate your photos from your Lady Elliot Island adventure.
After absorbing all you can from Mark's expertise and camera roll brimming with unforgettable memories, prepare to bid adieu to the island. You'll board a charter flight back to Hervey Bay, bringing a close to an unforgettable expedition.
“People say to me, 'what was the most magical thing you ever saw in your life?’ And I always say without a word of exaggeration, ‘The first time I was lucky enough to visit the Great Barrier Reef.”
Optional Extras:
*For assistance in booking your flights or if you have any other inquiries, please get in touch and we can help.
Lady Elliot Island isn't just another spot on the map; it's a snorkeler's paradise and a diver's dream. Voted the second-best beach for snorkelling worldwide by Lonely Planet in 2020, this unique coral cay island delivers an unrivaled underwater experience. Its remote location makes it one of the Great Barrier Reef's more secluded spots, adding a touch of exclusivity to its natural splendour. The island's protected reefs serve as an underwater sanctuary, making it not just the ultimate diving location, but a snorkelling haven that offers intimate encounters with diverse marine life. In short, Lady Elliot Island is the quintessential destination for anyone looking to truly immerse themselves in the wonders of the ocean.
Yes, Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort is an award-winning leader in sustainable tourism, committed to the conservation of both Lady Elliot Island and the greater Great Barrier Reef.
Yes, Lady Elliot has a large range of snorkel vests and pool noodles for flotation. Our in-water guides are only too happy to help with any assistance and instruction.
Pack the camera gear you're most comfortable with! Whether you prefer DSLRs or a simple smartphone setup with a waterproof case, our Storyteller Guides are skilled in various underwater photography techniques. For those interested in diving deep into photo editing, we suggest bringing a laptop with Adobe Lightroom installed. If you have any specific questions or need advice on gear, feel free to reach out to us.
For our ocean adventures, a moderate level of fitness is ideal to fully enjoy water-based activities like swimming, snorkelling, or diving, often lasting several hours. Being comfortable in the ocean is essential. If you have concerns about your fitness level or abilities in the water, please don't hesitate to contact us for advice.
Your adventure will be guided by a seasoned Airguides Trip Leader, who's an experienced travel guide and your primary contact for any needs or questions during the trip. What sets our trips apart? We'll be joined by a 'Storyteller Guide,' a true expert with deep knowledge and a genuine passion for the destination, adding authentic insights and stories to your journey.
Our trips are intimate and immersive experiences, accommodating 8-12 guests. Along with a knowledgeable Storyteller Guide and an Airguides Trip Leader, you'll join a diverse group of like-minded adventurers. Our guests come from various countries and backgrounds, including solo travellers, couples, and friends. This adventure is designed for travellers aged 18 and above.
Solo travellers can opt for a private room, which incurs a single-supplement fee. Please contact us for specific pricing details. Alternatively, we may offer a roommate pairing option on a limited, first-come, first-served basis. Reach out to us for availability and more information.
Certainly! If you need help finding the best flights or planning your travel routes, we're here to help. Just reach out to us, and our team will be more than happy to provide guidance and support.
We'd love to speak with you about this trip and answer any questions you have! Feel free to call, text or WhatsApp our friendly team at +61 402 552 918. You'll be connected with a real, knowledgeable person from Airguides, ready to assist. We take great pride in our personal service, ensuring we're with you every step of the way, from planning your adventure to your journey back home.
“Thanking the stars I found Airguides and Jono's trip. We were totally taken care of! Paul answered all our questions and took care of the details so all we had to do was get there. Jono Allen is an amazing, talented photographer who created a special group experience. The WHALES were mind blowing. What a gift to be in Tonga staring into the eye of a baby whale! This trip was a lifelong dream come true. I highly recommend it so much we’ve already signed up again for next year!"
"The Airguides trip to Tonga to swim with humpback whales was the experience of a lifetime. I have traveled all over the world, and nothing compares to being in the wild, rustic, deep blue waters of the South Pacific while interacting with whales and their calves. A wonderful and caring team made our adventures stress free. Absolutely amazing, so much so, that I am doing it again this year! Thanks a million Paul, Jono, Al, Alistair, Christian and Polly!"
"Thank you for your help in putting together our trip to the Northern Territory. Everyone agreed that it was the best family holiday we'd ever had and - even better - everyone nominated something different as 'the best thing'."
"The trip with Airguides was magic. Paul was our kind and patient guide, Mark Fitz was our talented and positive photographer/storyteller. It was a perfect mix of activity and relaxation and I’m already planning my next Airguides trip."
"I recently visited Lady Musgrave Island with Airguides. They have a unique and meaningful approach to travel and travelling with and learning from a world-class photographer, who was on the trip, was incredible."
"I cannot say enough amazing things about Airguides and the amazing honeymoon they planned for us. We began our trip planning by being overwhelmed with travel blogs, not knowing what was actually the best plan for us."
“Just had an amazing trip to Heron Island organised by the Airguides team. Perfect balance of activity and relaxation, they made it so easy. Can't wait until I can do another trip!“
“ We recently organised our trip to Heron Island with Bibi and Paul as a last minute getaway. Seamlessly dealt with and an added bonus of having a world-class photographer/ free-diver as our story teller. The trip has only whet our appetite for more positive and relaxing experiences with the Airguides team- Awesome “