Tag: Oaks Mackay Rivermarque Hotel

Unforgettable Snorkelling in Queensland

Ever swum amongst vibrant reef fish or majestic mantas? It is an experience that you won’t forget and one that you can enjoy when snorkelling in Queensland.

Lady Elliot Island
At the Great Barrier Reef’s southern tip, off the Bundaberg coast is Lady Elliot Island, one of the best spots to encounter manta rays especially during the winter season. It’s a popular family snorkelling destination with many underwater marvels to witness close to shore, while in deeper waters you can see turtles and dolphins too.

Keswick Island
Keswick Island, part of the Whitsunday Islands, can be easily reached by boat from Mackay Hotels close to the marina such as Oaks Mackay Rivermarque Hotel are ideal for those planning excursions to this island where you can snorkel above teeming coral reefs and tropical fish; highlights include spotting hawksbill and green turtles and manta rays.

Moreton Island

Moreton Island Image by brewbooks via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Those snorkelling around Moreton Island will come across an artificial harbour with old ships that have been intentionally sunk here. Amidst crystal clear waters, they create unique backdrops to spot all manner of marine life be it lionfish, yellowtails, stingrays, kingfish, turtles, dolphins and even wobbegong sharks.

Ribbon Reefs
For snorkelling enthusiasts, one of the best things to do in Queensland is to also explore the Ribbon Reefs which can be reached from Port Douglas. This site is in fact, made up of 10 reefs home to marine species like parrotfish, potato cod and unicornfish. In June and July, you may even get the chance to encounter dwarf minke whales!

Adventure-filled Fishing in Mackay

When it comes to fishing in Australia’s east coast, Mackay is the perfect destination. Be it at rivers, by the shore, in the ocean or at inland dams, there are many spots to choose from.

 

Image by Barth971 via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Why Fish at Mackay?
The diversity of fishing in Mackay is a big drawing can be enjoyed with or without a boat. You can easily find a hotel in Mackay near the marina, Pioneer River, or beaches where you can catch all manner of species including the iconic barramundi as well as barracuda, whiting, blue salmon, bream and more.

The Pioneer River
The Pioneer River which runs through the city is ideal for fishing; with properties such as Oaks Mackay Rivermarque Hotel near the banks, you could be casting your line in no time! Apart from barramundi, you may catch mangrove jack, queenfish and salmon in the city or at Mirani and Marian along the river.

The Marina and Beaches
The Mackay Marina / Harbour is another top place for fishing as are some of the Northern Beaches. At the marina, you may be rewarded with catches of golden trevally, tuna and mackerel; do keep in mind that fishing is generally better when the tide is coming in or going out.

Out to Sea and at Dams
You could head out on a fishing charter in the ocean at places like Cape Hillsborough where you may catch barramundi, trevally, or tuna. You can also go fishing at some of the dams in Mackay like the Kinchant Dam known for huge barramundi as well as saratoga and sooty grunter.