Venturing Out: The Guided Island Walk with Nanami Shiota

Frankland Island

Exploring the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef isn’t limited to the water—there’s a whole world to discover on land. With Frankland Islands Reef Cruises, the Guided Island Walk offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn about marine conservation, and witness the delicate balance between ecosystems. Leading this unforgettable journey is Nanami Shiota, a marine science graduate from Japan who brings expertise, passion, and a deep respect for the ocean to every tour.

A Walk Through Conservation

The Guided Island Walk isn’t your average beach stroll. It’s a hands-on experience where conservation meets education. Nanami, who has been with Frankland Islands Reef Cruises for over three years, sees each walk as a chance to inspire guests.

“One of the most rewarding parts of the experience is seeing guests encounter marine life up close and watching their awareness grow as they realise how delicate these ecosystems are,” she explains.

During the walk, guests are encouraged to collect marine debris, sparking meaningful discussions about human impact on the environment.

“It’s eye-opening when people realise that even small actions, like picking up a piece of plastic, contribute to the health of the reef and the broader ecosystem,” Nanami shares.

Discovering Marine Life

For many visitors, the highlight of the walk is observing marine life in its natural habitat. The islands’ shallow waters and vibrant coral formations teem with life, offering close encounters with everything from stingrays to clownfish.

“We often see stingrays gliding across the shallow water, and kids love spotting clownfish hiding among the anemones,” says Nanami. “The reef is alive with creatures—sand stars, crabs, and intricate coral structures. Witnessing guests’ excitement never gets old.”

These moments serve as powerful reminders of how precious and vibrant the ocean is.

An Interactive Classroom

The island walk is more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersive lesson in marine ecology. Nanami and the team of guides use this time to educate guests about the challenges the reef faces, including coral bleaching, rising sea temperatures, and the impact of pollution.

“Every part of the trip is a learning experience,” Nanami explains. “When we walk, we talk about the science behind what’s happening to the reef, as well as the steps we can all take to protect it.”

This knowledge stays with guests long after they’ve left, encouraging them to take their newfound awareness home and share it with others.

A Deeper Connection to Nature

By the end of the walk, most guests leave with more than just beautiful photos—they take away a renewed sense of responsibility for the environment.

“By the time we finish, our guests have a deeper connection to nature and a stronger commitment to protecting it,” Nanami says.

The Guided Island Walk is a perfect blend of adventure and education, offering a unique perspective on the interconnectedness of the reef’s ecosystems and the importance of conservation.

Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Great Barrier Reef or a seasoned traveler, the Guided Island Walk with Frankland Islands Reef Cruises is an experience not to be missed. Join Nanami Shiota and her team for a journey that’s equal parts exploration and education, and discover the magic of the Frankland Islands for yourself.

Contact Information:
reservations@franklandislands.com.au
www.franklandislands.com.au

+61 7 4046 7333

Why Choose the Guided Island Walk?

• Explore the stunning Frankland Islands on foot.
• Learn from marine science experts about reef conservation.
• Get hands-on with marine debris collection and make a real impact.
• Encounter unique marine life up close.

Embark on the Guided Island Walk and take the first step toward understanding and protecting the world’s most iconic reef. With every step, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the beauty and fragility of the Great Barrier Reef.