Depart Sydney to travel north where the stunning Queensland Islands of Moreton, Fraser and Daydream awaits you. Cruise, swim and snorkel the Great Barrier Reef aboard a catamaran then finish your holiday in the tropical city of Cairns.
Day 1. Sydney, Port Macquarie
Your Queensland holiday begins in the stunning harbourside city of Sydney with a drive across the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. Then, continue on to the scenic seaside town of Port Macquarie, which is located on the central coast of New South Wales. This evening enjoy time to meet your fellow travellers and crew at a special Welcome Drinks and Dinner.
Day 2. Byron Bay, Surfers Paradise.
Byron Bay is renowned for its beautiful surf beaches, which have attracted both wealthy city dwellers as well as bohemian lifestylers. See the lighthouse at Cape Byron, which is the Australian mainland’s most easterly point, before you continue the journey north to the Gold Coast. Here, perhaps stroll along the famous sands of Surfers Paradise Beach as the sun sets before discovering the diversity of restaurants, which are on offer here.
Day 3. Brisbane
Discover the vibrant city of Brisbane before continuing on to the Sunshine Coast for a visit to world-renowned Australia Zoo. Made famous by the late Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin, Australia Zoo has a range of wild animals originating from all corners of the globe. From the smallest of reptiles to the largest of mammals, Australia Zoo features over 100 different species. It is also a great attraction for gaining an understanding of conservation and protecting our endangered species. Later, travel north for an island resort stay on spectacular Fraser Island.
Day 4. Fraser Island.
As the largest sand island in the world, stretching some 123 kilometres, Fraser Island enjoys World Heritage status. It comprises a breathtaking mix of landscapes, from sweeping sandy beaches and soaring cliffs to freshwater lakes, wetlands and ancient rainforests. Fraser Island is also a popular location for spotting majestic Humpback whales as they make their journey north for the winter, between the months of June and November. This morning, spend time discovering this picturesque island destination on a half-day sightseeing tour. Then the afternoon is yours at leisure to further explore. Perhaps visit the intriguing wreck of the Maheno, a trans-Tasman liner that was driven ashore during a cyclone in 1935. Alternatively, you may prefer to simply relax on a stretch of white sand with a good book, before donning snorkelling gear to discover the island’s marine life. There are also the island resort’s excellent facilities to be enjoyed, which include swimming pools and a spa, all designed with the island’s sensitive ecology in mind.
Day 5. Rockhampton
Today, farewell Fraser Island as a morning cruise takes you back to the mainland. Here, you will rejoin your coach for the journey north. Travel through lush sugar cane country, crossing some of the many narrow gauge railway lines that transport cut sugar cane from the field to processing plants in town. Later today, you’ll arrive in the beef capital of Australia, Rockhampton. This charming city is situated on the banks of the Fitzroy River and is also adjacent to beautiful Mt Archer National Park. Rockhampton showcases examples of historic architecture with many fine public and private buildings. It is the perfect place in which to explore.
Day 6. Rockhampton, Daydream Island.
The gateway to the coast and the outback, the inland city of Rockhampton also boasts some of the best provincial gardens in Australia. Today, take a guided tour of Rockhampton Botanic Gardens to discover some of the region’s spectacular tropical flora. Then travel to Airlie Beach, where you’ll join a cruise through the Whitsundays to picturesque Daydream Island.
Day 7. Daydream Island.
With the whole of today at leisure on Daydream Island, you have the opportunity to do as little or as much as you like. Perhaps observe the many species of tropical fish by snorkelling directly off the beach, or you may prefer to stroll through the island’s tropical jungle to the highest point of the island. The resort offers the chance to simply relax with a book by one of the many inviting swimming pools or perhaps enjoy some of a range of watersports and spa treatments, which are also available (own expense).
Day 8. Whitehaven Beach
A jewel in the crown of the Whitsundays, Whitehaven Beach is a must-see on any visit to the region. With over seven kilometres of pristine beach, where aqua blue water gently laps on white silica sand, this is the perfect destination for a relaxing escape. During your time here, you will have plenty of opportunity to sit back and relax or explore this world-class beach. Perhaps go snorkelling and discover the myriad of tropical fish, coral species and marine life, including turtles, that call the Whitsundays home. Alternatively participate in watersports (own expense), go for a walk on the beach or simply relax and or enjoy time spent with fellow travellers.
Day 9. Townsville, Mission Beach.
Your journey north along Australia’s incredible coastline continues today with an early morning ferry transfer back to the mainland, where you will re-board your coach and travel to Townsville. On arrival, enjoy a tour of this tropical city, which is surrounded by rainforest on one side and
the Great Barrier Reef on the other. Later, depart Townsville and travel north to Mission Beach, which is a natural half-way point between Townsville and Cairns.
Day 10. Atherton Tablelands, Cairns.
Rolling green hills, open farmlands and tropical rainforests characterise the Atherton Tablelands, which form part of the Great Dividing Range in Queensland. Here, visit the scenic village of Kuranda, where you will board the Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Witness panoramic vistas of the tropical region surrounding Cairns and the Coral Sea in the distance, as you ride above the treetops to Caravonica Lakes. Later depart for Cairns.
Day 11. Green Island.
Green Island, on the Great Barrier Reef, is the perfect place to view tropical marine life. Whether snorkelling, scuba diving or enjoying a birds-eye view from a glass-bottom boat, your day cruise to Green Island ensures you’ll make the most of your visit to the reef. Tonight enjoy a Farewell Dinner at Tjapukai by Night. Here, take part in an interactive corroboree, before being led along a flame-lit path to a dinner of the regional cuisine.
Day 12. Depart Cairns.
Drive north to Port Douglas for a tour. Later, return to Cairns, where your tour concludes at the airport.
