Reef Suntanner 2011 - 12

Itinerary

DAY 1 GOLD COAST

We start our trip with a free day – take in an optional surf lesson, thrill your inner adrenalin junkie with a visit to the theme parks, or make some new friends with a visit to Australia Zoo. Whatever you choose, don't forget to check out the beaches that go on for miles and miles.

DAY 2 GOLD COAST TO FRASER ISLAND

We stop off in Brisbane today, capital of the state of Queensland. Enjoy a walking tour around the city, indulge in a spot of shopping or just relax over a coffee. Then we pass through the Glasshouse mountains before catching the ferry across to Fraser Island, where our stop for the night is nestled amongst the eucalyptus trees. (B, D)

DAY 3 FRASER ISLAND - GREAT SANDY NATIONAL PARK 

A World Heritage site and the world’s largest sand island, Fraser Island continues to amaze visitors with its natural beauty. Travel through sand dunes hundreds of metres high, explore rainforests teeming with wildlife. Then join our half-day 4-wheel drive tour that stops at pristine inland lakes ideal for swimming. (B)

DAY 4 FRASER ISLAND TO KROOMBIT PARK 

We return to the mainland today, heading for Central Queensland and a taste of “Outback hospitality” on a 10,000 acre cattle station. Expect to see kangaroos bounding over wide open spaces, with views that stretch on for miles. Perhaps try your luck on the mechanical bull? Then this evening we’ll gather round the campfire and swap stories. (B, D)

DAY 5 KROOMBIT TO EMU PARK 

Try your hand at some optional activities this morning: goat mustering, quad bike riding or trap shooting this morning, before we take off from the farm. Pay a visit to Rockhampton, the beef capital of Australia, before we arrive in the coastal resort town of Emu Park. Swim in the pool, walk along the dazzling beach and prepare yourself for a “reef & beef” dinner tonight. (B, L, D)

DAY 6 EMU PARK TO THE WHITSUNDAYS

Today we’re heading for some of the most beautiful islands found anywhere in the world, the Whitsundays. We drive to the lively resort town of Airlie Beach, before boarding the yacht we’ll call home for the next two nights. Prepare to be impressed by the spectacular scenery on show. (B, D)

DAY 7 THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

Ladies and Gentlemen, we have arrived in Paradise. Sail across azure waters, discovering remote beaches and colourful coral reefs. Soak up the sun, swim in the tropical ocean, take a turn at the helm and indulge in some stargazing by night. (B, L, D)

DAY 8 THE WHITSUNDAYS TO CAIRNS 

Taking our leave from these idyllic islands, we set sail for dry land and Airlie Beach. Then we’ll head north, travelling through Townsville to our final destination of Cairns. Get a feel for the local nightlife with dinner at a local restaurant (own expense) and a visit to the night markets. (B)

DAY 9 CAIRNS

An exhilarating combination of reef meets rainforest, Cairns offers fun for all kinds of visitors. Today you’ve got plenty of optional activities to choose from, including diving on the Great Barrier Reef, white water rafting, skydiving, quad biking or even hot air ballooning! Tropical North Queensland is your oyster – tell us all about it over dinner (own expense). (B)

DAY 10 CAIRNS

Get a feel for the rainforest today, as we visit the nearby village of Kuranda – discover the community’s arts and crafts. We’ll all visit Koala Gardens and get up close and personal with some of the local wildlife, including an optional koala cuddle. Then you can take the optional Skyrail back to Cairns, which glides metres above the rainforest canopy. This is where we say our farewells. (B)

Please note that this trip forms part of the Island Suntanner trip, days 5 - 14.