(56 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Dawn Thompson

Bremerton, WA
South Island New Zealand Travel Agent Specialist

  “Certain things in life simply have to be experienced” -Paula CoelhaRichGreetings! 

I'm delighted to share my story with you, especially if you're ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand....
Learn more about me.

Great Barrier Reef Australia Travel Agent Expert

Great Barrier Reef
Great Barrier Reef

"The Great Barrier Reef is the most beautiful and intricate structure ever made by living creatures. It's a complex beauty - a tapestry of life." — Sir David Attenborough      With over 30 years of experience and a deep passion for the Great Barrier Reef, I take immense pride in representing this natural wonder as a seasoned travel specialist. The Great Barrier Reef is an enthralling and amazing attraction, often featured in publications like National Geographic. Nestled off the coast of Queensland in Australia, this colossal coral reef stretches an astounding 2,300 kilometers (approximately 1,430 miles) along Australia's northeast coast, nurturing a stunning diversity of marine species and unparalleled underwater ecosystems, making it the natural habitat for around 9,000 animal species.


For those venturing to the Great Barrier Reef for the first time, there are some vital considerations. Weather plays a crucial role in your experience. Opt for a winter visit when water temperatures are cooler, as summers can be uncomfortably hot. Winter also ensures safer snorkeling and more detailed reef exploration. Regardless of when you choose to visit, I am here to support you every step of the way.


Let me introduce you to the Great Barrier Reef region, with Cairns as its gateway. Situated in far north Queensland, Cairns is your portal to the pristine waters of this UNESCO World Heritage site, extending from Cape York Peninsula in the north to Bundaberg in the south. During your stay in Cairns, you can relish cosmopolitan dining and a plethora of shoreline activities for the entire family. Whether you seek a romantic getaway or a family-friendly escape, Cairns has something to offer every type of traveler.


Hamilton Island is a must-visit for those planning a trip to the Whitsunday Islands. Nestled in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, this island is surrounded by pristine white sand beaches and a vibrant marine world. With a multitude of water activities, scenic flights, and bareboat sailing options, Hamilton Island caters to all tastes. Explore the island's natural beauty through kayaking, scuba diving, or snorkeling. While on Hamilton Island, be sure to savor the island's delectable cuisine, including the popular Bob's Bakery and local seafood eateries for takeaway fish.


Consider spending your next holiday on the stunning Whitsunday Islands in Australia. These small, mostly uninhabited islands are known for their white sand beaches, hiking trails, and lush rainforests. During your trip, experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef from a unique perspective. Take scenic flights over the islands from Cairns, the gateway to the Whitsundays, or choose a tour that includes a picnic lunch on a remote beach or a visit to a private coral lagoon. Adventurous travelers can even hire a sea kayak to explore the islands independently.


For a truly unforgettable snorkeling experience, set your sights on the Low Isles, a real getaway just an hour's boat ride from Port Douglas. These isles offer an idyllic tropical paradise where snorkeling among clownfish and sea turtles is a surreal experience. Golden sand beaches are adorned with lush vegetation and an iconic lighthouse. As the day draws to a close, relish a sunset sailing journey back to Port Douglas.


Are you ready to embark on an exploration of the Great Barrier Reef? If so, don't hesitate to reach out to me today. As your travel agent professional, I am well-equipped to make your dream vacation to this extraordinary natural wonder a reality. Contact me, and let's start planning your adventure to the Great Barrier Reef. 

My Travel Albums

Australia - Lizard Island Great Barrier Reef
Beach at Lizard Island
Australia and New Zealand Adventure Pictures
South Pacific Adventures

My Reviews

10 of 14 people found this review helpful
Best Girls Trip
Dawn is organized and personable. Very knowable of the area of which she helps with travel. Love working with her.
By  Hilskill  from  Phoenix, AZ
Traveled to  Phoenix ~ Arizona ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Dawn Thompson responded:
Thank you for your review. I love being able to help plan customized vacations for you and your family. Please let me know if I can be of any help in the future. Sincerely, Dawn

Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
10 of 15 people found this review helpful
Expert Advice
Dawn always goes above and beyond to provide excellent service with her vast knowledge. I relied on her expertise to provide many once in a lifetime experiences for my clients in Australia and New Zealand.
By  DeLora Walker  from  Vancouver WA
Traveled to  Australia & New Zealand
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Dawn Thompson responded:
Thank you so much for your kind words. You were an absolute pleasure to work with. If I can be of any assistance to you for future travel please let me know. Sincerely, Dawn Thompson

Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
9 of 14 people found this review helpful
The Best Travel Agent EVER!
Dawn is one of the most knowledgable, personable, seasoned and detail oriented travel agent I've had the pleasure to work with. She has handled both my national and international travel for years, both personally and professionally. I've become so spoiled by her knowledge and experience, I find it very hard to book anything without her help! She is fantastic, dependable, and so nice to work with. Five stars! Won't find anyone better.
By  JH  from  Seattle, WA
Traveled to  USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
9 of 15 people found this review helpful
Wonderful experience working with Dawn Thompson
My clients asked for many things- and kept making changes and Dawn was patient and helpful throughout- a pleasure for me to work with
By  Diane  from  San Diego Ca
Traveled to  Australia & New Zealand
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
Special 30th wedding anniversary trip!
Dawn understood what I was looking for in planning our trip to Australia and was able to coordinate flight logistics. that fit our schedule She found great tours and shared many ideas as well. Dawn has a great knowledge of Australia.
By  Judy  from  Michigan
Traveled to  Australia & New Zealand
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends

Dawn Thompson responded:
Thank you so much. You were such a pleasure to work with.

Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Go to my main profile

Destination Expert:

  • Great Barrier Reef
  • Dunk Island
  • Hamilton Island
  • Whitsunday Island
  • Lizard Island

Travel Specialist:

  • Scuba
  • Water Sports
  • Animals & Wildlife
  • Couples & Romance
  • Nature

Certifications/Awards:

  • 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist
  • Premier Aussie Specialist

Industry Affiliations:

©  Travel Leaders Group