One way to explore the Great Barrier Reef, without the rigors of snorkeling or scuba diving, is to visit the largest coral-reef aquarium in the world. At the Reef HQ Aquarium in Townsville, they have re-created a living, breathing coral reef

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One way to explore the Great Barrier Reef, without the rigors of snorkeling or scuba diving, is to visit the largest coral-reef aquarium in the world. At the Reef HQ Aquarium in Townsville, they have re-created a living, breathing coral reef engulfed by 2.5 million liters of water (roughly the same volume of water you would need to fill 50 reasonably big swimming pools). Here, visitors can marvel at more than 130 varieties of coral; over 120 different types of fish; and myriad echinoderms, including starfish, sea urchins, and sea cucumbers. While the kids will thrill at the sight of brightly colored clown fish and angelfish, the daily shows that see the aquarium's divers swim with the sharks will really take their breath away. They will also love the sea turtles, stingrays, and large predatory fish.

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