If there’s a paradise on Earth for kiteboarders and adventure seekers, it’s the Great Barrier Reef—and the jewel of the reef, Lizard Island, is the ultimate escape. I recently embarked on a 7-day kite cruise that felt like stepping into a dream: seven days on a 50-foot boat, exploring untouched waters, diving into vibrant marine life, and soaking up the raw beauty of one of Australia’s most remote islands.
First Stop: Pure Adventure
We set sail from Port Douglas under a sun-soaked sky, the wind promising perfect conditions for kiteboarding. With 7 adventurers onboard and a crew of three taking care of every detail, it felt like the start of something extraordinary. And extraordinary it was.
Each day brought new discoveries—remote kite spots you’d only see in your wildest dreams, calm lagoons perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, and coral reefs teeming with life. But nothing prepared me for the magic of Lizard Island.
Lizard Island: A Slice of Untouched Heaven
Picture this: turquoise waters so clear you can see every ripple of sand beneath, surrounded by lush greenery and the most vibrant coral you’ll ever encounter. That’s Lizard Island.
Named by Captain Cook in 1770 after spotting the island’s native yellow-spotted monitors (Varanus panoptes), Lizard Island is as wild and beautiful as it was centuries ago. Accessible only by boat or private charter, it’s a true escape from the world—and the highlight of our trip.
Thanks to a special arrangement with the island’s management team, we were granted rare access to kiteboard and explore its pristine shores. A rugged ute shuttled us through the National Park to Blue Beach, where the magic of the Blue Lagoon awaited.
Kiteboarding in the Blue Lagoon
Let me tell you—there’s nothing like kiting in the Blue Lagoon. The wind was perfect, steady and strong, and the water? Absolute glass. It was like nature had custom-designed this spot just for kiteboarders.
Gliding across the lagoon, surrounded by coral gardens and untouched wilderness, was pure joy. And when we weren’t on the water with our kites, we were paddling along the shoreline, diving below the surface, or simply floating in awe of the world around us.
The lagoon isn’t just beautiful—it’s alive. Snorkelling here feels like stepping into a real-life aquarium, with colorful fish darting around coral that glows in the sunlight. It’s a reminder of why this part of the world is so special and so worth protecting.
Pizza Nights and Firelight Magic at Lizard Island’s Marlin Bar
When you’re anchored in Watsons Bay after a day of kiting, snorkelling, and exploring, there’s no better way to wind down than at the Marlin Bar. This charming little hideaway is Lizard Island’s only public bar, open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 5 PM. It’s where sailors, locals, and island visitors gather to soak in the laid-back vibes, share stories, and enjoy a meal.
We headed over for pizza night, a casual yet delicious affair where fresh, wood-fired pies stole the show. The bar’s rustic, seaside charm and views of the fading sunset made it the perfect setting for a relaxed evening. But the real highlight? A surprise fire show that lit up the night, turning our chill hangout into an unforgettable spectacle of flames and artistry.
The Marlin Bar is more than just a pit stop—it’s a chance to connect with the spirit of the island, meet fellow adventurers, and savor a slice of life in this remote paradise. If you’re cruising through Lizard Island, make sure to mark your calendar for pizza night.
David Attenborough’s Take on Lizard Island: A Gateway to the Reef’s Extraordinary Beauty
David Attenborough, a lifelong advocate for conservation, has often praised the Great Barrier Reef as “one of the most extraordinary places on the planet,” and Lizard Island stands out as a vital piece of this natural wonder. Featured in his series Life in Colour, the island showcases vibrant marine life and serves as a hub for crucial research on coral reef ecosystems.
Attenborough’s admiration for the island extends beyond its beauty; he emphasizes its role in understanding and preserving the delicate balance of the reef, a mission he’s championed throughout his career.
Why This Trip is a Must-Do
This 7-day kite cruise wasn’t just a trip—it was an experience that redefined adventure for me. Lizard Island and the Great Barrier Reef are more than just destinations; they’re a reminder of the world’s untamed beauty and the joy of connecting with it.
Whether you’re an experienced kiteboarder chasing the perfect spot, a diver eager to explore underwater wonderlands, or someone who just craves a unique adventure, this is the trip for you.
So, pack your kite gear, grab your snorkel, and set sail for the adventure of a lifetime. Trust me, the Blue Lagoon is calling and it’s more magical than you could ever imagine.
Visit www.kitecruisegbr.com.au and book your kite trip
