My visit was quite a touristy experience, since I visited the Great Barrier Reef several times over the years on tourist boats, that started in Townsville. I would recommend a visit for people, who want to snorkel to see the reef up close. Also, they should be prepared for high swells, when going out in the small boats. On the boat you will get an introduction to the reef as well as to the danger of extinction it is exposed to.