Love is in the… Ocean!

While we’re busy exchanging chocolate and roses on land, some of the most devoted love stories are unfolding beneath the waves, drifting gently over coral reefs.

Did you know that many fish species in the ocean mate for life?

Here on the Great Barrier Reef in the Whitsundays, one such romantic is the Sixbar Angelfish (also known as the Sixband Angelfish). Once they reach adulthood, these striking fish form deep, lasting bonds – choosing a partner and often staying together for the rest of their lives.

Side by side, they glide through the water, mirroring each other’s movements, protecting their shared territory and food sources as one. You’ll find them among rich coral reefs at depths of 1 – 40 metres, which means they can be very easy to see for first-time snorkelers at shallow depths.

The angelfish pictured here was spotted in Luncheon Bay, Hook Island, Whitsundays, along the fringing reef by one of our Marine Biologists while aboard Viper.

Another Great Barrier Reef Love Story

Another lifelong love story belongs to the Latticed Butterflyfish. Their courtship begins with an elegant underwater dance – graceful movements performed in hopes of winning a partner’s heart. When the dance is successful, the butterflyfish pair bonds for life. These bright yellow beauties rarely stray far from one another, always close, helping each other find food and defend their coral reef home.

Latticed Butterflyfish are both corallivores and carnivores, feeding on coral polyps, anemones, and worms. Their long, narrow faces allow them to reach prey hidden deep within the reef.

Fun fish fact: A black spot beneath their dorsal fin can appear when they’re stressed – or even when they’re sleeping.

So now you know – love isn’t just for land dwellers. Beneath the surface, the ocean is full of affection, commitment, and lifelong partnerships, quietly proving that true love really does run deep.

This Valentine’s Day, why not celebrate your love with an iconic Whitsunday adventure?

• Snorkel the reef and look for these lovebirds… er… fish on Viper
• Enjoy a romantic Lady Enid sunset sail
• Explore the fjord-like Nara Inlet on Hook Island. Immerse yourself in the cultural site and experience coral reef snorkelling on the Hook Island Reefs with Lady Enid Hook Island day tour
• Celebrate with the family or a group of friends on a Sundowner sunset cruise