Day 1: Welcome to Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef

Welcome to Cairns! Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for an orientation tour of the laid back tropical city. This evening get to know each other over a drink and delicious meal featuring fresh seasonal produce at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Great Barrier Reef

Board a high speed catamaran and cruise out to the Great Barrier Reef. The world heritage listed reef is the only living organism you can see from the moon. Imagine that! You’ll have the opportunity to go snorkelling and view this natural living wonder up- close (equipment provided) and view the spectacular coral and tropical fish from the underwater observatory and the semi- submersible craft. Enjoy a delicious tropical buffet lunch before you return to Cairns in the late afternoon. You have a free evening to do as you choose. Why not take a stroll along the esplanade and check out the Cairns Night Market.

This morning travel through the high tropical plateau known as the Atherton Tablelands, where lush rainforests, waterfalls and lakes abound. You’ll visit Lake Barrine to take a serene cruise on the calm waters and get up close to the rainforest. Next up visit Millaa Millaa Falls and the famous Curtain Fig Tree. Keep an eye out for the spectacular Ulysses Butterfly! Before heading back to the coast, stop at Mungalli Creek Dairy. The dairy was established by the Watson family who believe that it’s vital that food be produced as naturally as possible. You’ll get the chance to taste their biodynamic cheese and yogurt and sit down to a delicious afternoon tea. There will be time to take a walk along the shore and feel the golden sand between your toes when you arrive in Mission Beach this afternoon.

Day 4 Mission Beach – Hamilton Island

Travel down the coast towards tonight’s stopover in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef on spectacular Hamilton Island. You’ll visit Townsville where there’s time for a stroll along the Strand, then travel to Airlie Beach to catch the ferry to the island, one of 74 tropical islands that make up the Whitsundays. You’ll be surrounded by pristine beaches, and a kaleidoscope of coral and marine life!

Day 5: Hamilton Island

Today in paradise, it's time to let your hair down and relax. You may like to take a cruise to famous Whitehaven Beach or even strap on a snorkel and mask to spot turtles and other marine life on the fringing reef. You could choose to discover native Australian animals at the island’s wildlife park or grab a bite to eat at one of the island’s restaurant and watch the world go by. Whatever you do, at some stage, grab a good book and sit back and relax by the resort pool.

Your tropical getaway concludes after breakfast. You’ll receive a complimentary transfer to the airport for your onward flight.