Cruise ships are a popular way to travel and explore the world’s oceans, and one of the stops that many of them make is at Willis Island. But why do these ships stop at this small island in the middle of the Coral Sea? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind it.
What is Willis Island?
Willis Island is a small island in the Coral Sea, located about 450 kilometers east of Cairns, Australia. The island is part of the Willis Islets, which also include South, Middle, and North Islets. The entire area covers around 7 hectares and is home to a weather station operated by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.
Why Do Cruise Ships Stop at Willis Island?
Scenic Views
One reason why cruise ships stop at Willis Island is for its scenic views. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters that showcase a stunning array of marine life such as colorful fishes, giant clams, turtles and more.
As you approach the island from your cruise ship you will notice how clean and untouched it looks. You can get some incredible photos as your ship passes by or when you go ashore.
Cultural Experience
Cruise passengers also visit Willis Island to experience its unique culture. The staff members who work on the weather station call this place home for months on end and are happy to share their stories with visitors who come ashore. They can tell you all about what it’s like to live on an isolated tropical island for months on end while performing essential work.
Environmental Education
Willis Island provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about environmental conservation efforts in Australia. The staff members working at the weather station are responsible for monitoring weather patterns in the area which helps in understanding climate change trends over time. They can explain how weather patterns have changed over the years due to climate change and what it means for the planet.
Weather Observations
The main reason why Willis Island is so important is that it provides valuable weather observations for Australia. The staff working at the weather station collect scientific data such as temperature, humidity, air pressure, wind speed and direction, rainfall, and more. This data is used to create weather forecasts that are important for aviation and marine transportation as well as for emergency services planning.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several reasons why cruise ships stop at Willis Island. Whether it’s for its scenic views, cultural experience, environmental education or most importantly weather observations that help in creating forecasts that are vital for transportation and emergency services planning. The island provides a unique experience to visitors who get a glimpse of life on an isolated tropical island while also learning about scientific research efforts being carried out by the Australian Government.