Barrier Reef Explorer

Great Barrier Reef Cruise Highlights:

• Swim, snorkel, dive or simply view the iconic marine species of the Great Barrier Reef
• Immerse yourself in one of the world’s great seascapes with the Great Barrier Reef experts
• Learn about ancient indigenous culture and Australian heritage in Cooktown
• Seven magical Queensland sunsets
• Sip sundowners and feel the sand beneath your feet on isolated sand cays and uninhabited islands
• Hike to the summit of Cooks Look

Cruise Inclusions:

• All meals, chef-prepared on board with selected wines, selected beers and spirits with lunch and dinner plus 24-hour barista-style coffee and tea station
• Captain’s welcome and farewell events, and open bridge access
• Daily lectures and briefings with Guest Lecturers
• Excursions with an Expedition Team and use of Xplorer, Zodiacs and Kayaks
• Snorkelling & SCUBA equipment (SCUBA diving at an additional cost)
• All entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities
• Tips and gratuities onboard
• Wifi

Sample Itinerary

Note: Your cruise itinerary is an indication of the destinations visited and activities on offer. Throughout the expedition they may make changes to the itinerary as necessary to maximise your experience. Allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions or any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. We recommend you do not arrive on the day of embarkation or depart on the day of disembarkation due to any changes that may occur in scheduling. Note: *Tours of the Lizard Island Research Station are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.

Day 1: Arrive Cairns, Australia

G’Day welcome to Australia.  On arrival, you will be met at Cairns Airport and transferred to your hotel.  The remainder of your day is at leisure.

Days 2-4: Cairns & Tropical North Queensland

You have 3 days to explore tropical Cairns, the gateway to tropical North Queensland at your own pace.  You may choose to add sightseeing such as the Kuranda Scenic Railway, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, shop for souvenirs and much more.

Days 5-11: Great Barrier Reef & Islands Cruise

Your cruise departs from Trinity wharf in downtown Cairns at approximately 5:00pm. Explore the facilities onboard before Captain’s Welcome Drinks on the Sun deck. Spend 7 nights cruising through this stunning north east coast of Australia.

The World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef is one of Australia’s natural treasures located along the coast of Queensland that is home to stunning coral formations, giant clams, rare whale species, six of the world’s seven marine turtle species and over 1,600 species of fish.  This is the world’s largest reef system that is made up of approximately 3000 reefs and 900 coral islands divided by narrow passages.  A real aquatic wonderland!

Day 12: Depart Cairns, Australia

Your Great Barrier Reef cruise adventure concludes in Cairns this morning, disembarking at 8:00am.