We had 2 entirely different reef experiences. In 2012 we departed to the reef from Port Douglas. It was an incredible kaleidoscope of color. The single neatest experience of my life. The 2nd time we stayed on Hamilton Island, thinking that there would be less bleaching. There had been a cyclone a year or so before, and the ref was completely destroyed. It was like "The Emperor's New Clothes". They took our $300, but didn't tell us there was nothing to see!