Turtle Expedition
Join me in an incredible experience snorkeling with turtles in the Great Barrier Reef!
Dates to be determined
Come live a magical week on Heron Island, a wild and pristine island at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, where nature reigns supreme.
At this time of year, the beaches become the stage for two exceptional moments in marine life:
-
At night, mother turtles come to lay their eggs under the stars — an ancestral ritual that’s fascinating to witness in silence.
-
At dawn (or dusk), baby turtles emerge from their nests, rushing toward the ocean for the very first time. Emotional scenes we’ll take the time to observe… and respectfully photograph.
Heron Island is one of the best places in the world to observe sea turtles. You can see three different species here, and they are incredibly relaxed around people, making close observation easy. Joeva specifically chose these dates to coincide with the best tides for optimal snorkeling conditions!
Inclusions
• 5 nights in shared accommodation (triple room) on the island
→ Option to upgrade to a double or single room (additional fee)
• Roundtrip ferry transfer from Gladstone (helicopter option available for an extra fee)
• Daily breakfast included. 2 group dinners (welcome and farewell dinners). Other meals can be enjoyed at the resort’s restaurant
• Welcome cocktail upon arrival on the island
• 3 guided snorkeling boat trips included
• Morning guided snorkeling every day with Joeva
• Free snorkeling gear provided
• Guided tour of Heron Island’s research station
• Nature tours offered by the resort’s naturalist guides (reef walks, birdwatching, turtle observation)
• Sunset and sunrise guided walks to watch nesting turtles and baby turtles heading to the ocean
• Photography workshops throughout the week
→ No matter your level or equipment: DSLR, GoPro, phone, etc.
• All of Joeva’s best photos from the week will be shared with you for free
• Option to add extra paid activities like scuba diving, massage, glass-bottom boat tours, etc.
What can we see ?
Turtles !! Everywhere ! (mostly Green Sea turtles but also Hawksbill and Loggerheads) But also plenty of stingrays ! Reef sharks, lemon sharks, guitar fish, eagle rays, etc.
Turtles
Reef sharks
Stingrays
Is it for me?
You don’t need to be a professional photographer or diving expert! You just need to know how to swim, be curious, and love nature. This expedition is for anyone who dreams of experiencing full immersion with sea turtles in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
You don't need to be a photographer to participate in the expedition. I will be leading photography and editing workshops. I will help you improve your photography skills, whether you use a DSLR or a GoPro.
I am bilingual in French and English, so you are welcome to join if you speak either language! I will always make sure to translate all content for everyone.
Where do we stay?
At the resort on the island: it's a very small island with only one resort. We will be sharing triple rooms. Possibility to book a double or single room for an additional fee.
It's an eco resort so there is no AC but there are fans into the room. There is also a swimming pool and the ocean of course!
*Please let me know your preference upon booking
 heron-island-1 |  heron-island-reef-family-room_wide |
|---|---|
 685858543 |  heron-island-reef-family-room-1_wide |
 heron-feb19-rm131-001_wide |  baillie-s-bar-and-pandanus-lounge |
 wistari-terrace |  image-2018-05-09-10-00-23 |
 reef-family-photopia1_wide |
Why join Joeva?
I had the incredible opportunity to live a full year on Heron Island. It’s where I began my journey into underwater photography: an island that changed my life and where I got to know every corner and secret snorkeling spots. I'm the perfect person to guide you through its wonders, while respecting this unique ecosystem.
(Photo of me with my very first underwater camera ^^)
Sample Itinary
January 28: Arrival in Gladstone, transfer to Heron Island (ferry or helicopter). Check-in, welcome drink, meet the group, welcome dinner.
January 29 to February 1:
🐢 Morning: Daily guided snorkeling with Joeva, departing from the beach (turtles guaranteed!)
🌊 During the day: 3 boat excursions to explore the island’s most beautiful reefs
📷 Free time to explore the island, relax, or join Joeva’s photo workshops
🌙 Evening: Guided walks to observe nesting turtles on the beach
🌅Sunrise and/or sunset: Turtle hatchling observation and photography
🔬 Guided tour of the island’s research station
February 1 (evening): Farewell group dinner
February 2: Return to Gladstone by ferry or helicopter
Price
TBD
Extra solo or double : contact me (price will depend of how many people want a private room)
Instalment payment available
Book now!
Dates TBD
I'm proud to partner with a Canadian travel agency to organize this expedition. It's 100% legal and professional! (Please note: many photographers offer tours without complying with legal requirements).
The travel agency can also help you organize the rest of your stay in Australia, as well as book your flight. All the information is available in the link above.
Raphael, France
«Please know that it's thanks to you, your videos, and your passion for the ocean that I was able to realize a dream: swimming with whales. I'm grateful.You've helped people realize their dreams. That's a great quality. Thank you so much »
Ashley, US
« The whale expedition in Moorea was one of the most amazing trips ever!! I want to come back!»
Austin, Australia
« The whale trip was definitively my highlight for 2024 ! Thank you so much »
What's not included
-
International airfare to Gladstone. We can, however, help you make the reservation. Please contact catherinemorin@experiencegroupe.com so that she can help you.
-
Transportation/parking to the airport from your home town
-
Drinks and meals not stated in the inclusions.
-
Medical and travel insurance (mandatory). Contact Expérience Groupe, they can help you obtain insurance.
-
Additional personal expenses.
-
Additional dives or other activities if you want some.
-
Anything not mentioned in the 'Inclusions' section.