10 Day Brisbane to Cairns Reef Discovery Tour

Day 1 Brisbane to Noosa.

We meet up in Brisbane, capital city of Queensland and an exhilarating mix of warm sun and hustle ‘n’ bustle. Together we board one of the famed CityCats for a cruise along the river and a chance to gaze up at the skyline. Then we head onwards and upwards along the Bruce Highway, passing through the Glasshouse Mountain range and hitting the Australia Zoo, made famous by Steve Irwin. There is time available to visit the zoo this afternoon (own expense).  For the rest of us, we will make our way to Noosa, a popular resort town on the Sunshine Coast. Enjoy the endless beaches of the area, or just mosey around town. Tonight we’ll share a drink or two with the friendly locals.

Nomads, Noosa – Backpackers (Private Facilities)

 Day 2: FRASER ISLAND

Today we’re taking a guided 4WD tour around the world’s largest sand island before enjoying a “fair dinkum” (authentic) Aussie barbecue on the banks of stunning Lake McKenzie. (B, L)

Nomads, Noosa – Backpackers (Private Facilities)

 Day 3: NOOSA to KROOMBIT PARK

Leaving the beach behind, we head inland and get a taste of country Australia! First stop is a visit to the Sandilands family, and their 10,000 acre cattle station. Breathe in the fresh air and get a feel for the wide open spaces. Spot some of the local kangaroos, enjoy this peaceful taste of the Australian bush. This afternoon get ready for the world-famous “Goat Rodeo”, before we settle in ‘round the campfire for a tale or three. Don’t forget to try your skills on the Mechanical Bull, either! (B, D)

Kroombit Cattle Station – Via Biloela (Share Facilities)

 Day 4: KROOMBIT PARK TO EMU PARK

Try your hand at a goat rodeo or maybe an outback quad bike ride before heading to the beach side town of Emu Park. Along the way we stop at the “Cattle City” of Rockhampton (known as “Rocky” to the locals)

(B, L, D)

Emu’s Beach Resort – Emu Park (Private Facilities)

 Day  5:  EMU PARK TO THE WHITSUNDAYS (SAILING)

Today get ready to chase the sun over the shimmering ocean. We arrive at Airlie Beach, resort town par excellence and gateway to the Whitsunday Islands. Think of the best tropical island you've visited, multiply it by 10 and you're still nowhere near it – this place is paradise on earth. Step aboard our yacht and make passage through the inlets. Tonight you'll gaze upon the stars from the deck and enjoy the relaxed vibes. (B, D)

Live-aboard Sailing – Whitsundays (Multi-share (bunk) accommodation)

 Day  6: THE WHITSUNDAYS (WHITEHAVEN BEACH)

Wake up from the shelter of a nearby cove and get ready for a day of sailing! We'll take in beautiful beaches, snorkel through colourful reefs and get a taste of tropical living. Weather permitting; we'll visit Whitehaven Beach (the whitest sand you've ever seen) and Blue Pearl Bay. Then we plot a course for nearby South Molle Island, our home for the next two nights – take a turn on the helm if you're up for it! (B, L, D)

South Molle Island (Private Facilities) 

 Day 7: THE WHITSUNDAYS (SOUTH MOLLE ISLAND)

Back on dry land, explore the idyllic surrounds of South Molle: feed the Rainbow Lorikeets, go snorkelling or swimming, even a quick 9 holes of golf if you feel the urge (own expense). There's plenty of bushwalking tracks available, with scenic views of the Whitsundays and 17 (count 'em) private beaches if you want to get away. A walk up “Spion Kop” (voted as one of the best island bushwalks) is a must.  Either way, the pace is relaxed and the choice is all yours. (B, D)

South Molle Island (Private Facilities)

 Day 8 THE WHITSUNDAYS TO CAIRNS

We're up sailing early today, heading back to the mainland and Airlie Beach. From here, we head north and further up towards Far North Queensland (or FNQ as it's sometimes known). Passing through the charming Townsville, it's not far to the adventurous city of Cairns. The destination for many a traveller, it's somewhat of a party town, which we'll find out tonight after dinner (own expense). Having said that, you're more than welcome to relax at the resort should the mood strike you? (B)

Cairns (Private Facilities)

 Day 9: CAIRNS

Where the rainforest meets the reef, that’s where you’ll find Cairns. Take advantage of these two spectacular natural landscapes with a day free for optional activities! Head out to the Great Barrier Reef for snorkelling or diving*, and get an insight into this beautiful part of the world. Get your heart racing with some white water rafting* along the Tully River, or tandem skydiving.* Take a day trip* into the Daintree Rainforest, or even go horse riding*, quad biking*, bungy jumping* or hot air ballooning!* As you can see, there’s a veritable cavalcade of things to do, and that’s without even mentioning the shopping options in Cairns. Tonight we can swap stories over dinner.* (B)

Cairns (Private Facilities)

 *own expense

 Day 10: CAIRNS

For our last day in the tropics, we head further north along the coast to the resort town of Port Douglas. Take some time to explore, or just hit the beach. Those of a more cultural bent can join an optional tour with the local Kuku Yalanji people, where a guide will explain the cultural significance of their country, before introducing you to traditional spear fishing. Learn about the edible plants and medicines found around you, make your way through the mangroves and view the magnificent Niau Waterfall. The rest of the group will relax in Port Douglas before heading to the rainforest village of Kuranda, sampling some of their fine arts and crafts – a great way to end our adventure together. (B)