For Nanami Shiota, who holds a Bachelor of Marine Science from Japan and has been with Frankland Island Reef Cruises for three years, leading the Guided Island Walk is more than just showcasing beautiful landscapes — it's about educating guests on the importance of protecting our oceans and fragile marine life. "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 shares.
Normanby Island from above. Image: Frankland Islands Reef Cruises.
The Guided Island Walk offers a unique opportunity for visitors to get hands-on with conservation efforts, learning about the delicate balance between human activity and marine health. "We encourage guests to collect marine debris during the walk, and this often opens up meaningful discussions about the impact of human activity on our oceans," Nanami explains.
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.
Most guests find the highlight of the walk is the chance to observe marine life in its natural habitat. "We often see stingrays gliding across the shallow water, and kids love spotting clownfish hiding among the anemones," says Nanami. "The reef is teeming with life, from sand stars to vibrant coral formations, and witnessing guests' excitement never tires. It's a constant reminder of how precious and alive our oceans really are."
Beach Stone-curlew. Image: Frankland Islands Reef Cruises.
Nanami points out that the walk serves as an interactive classroom, providing an opportunity to educate guests about marine ecosystems and the challenges they face. "Every part of the trip is a learning experience," she explains. "So, when we walk, we talk about rising sea temperatures and coral bleaching, and the challenges the reef is facing in today's changing environment."
Beginning the rainforest walk. Image: Frankland Islands Reef Cruises.
Ultimately, the Guided Island Walk is more than just an outdoor adventure — it's a journey into the heart of marine conservation. "By the end of the walk, our guests have a deeper connection to nature and a stronger commitment to protecting it," Nanami says.
Conservation in action:
- Participate in reef monitoring programs including Eye on the Reef and monitoring for the Crown of Thorns Starfish and Drupella Snail.
- Learn from Master Reef Guides about methods to tackle climate change and pick up marine debris from the coastline
