Island Suntanner 2011 - 12

Itinerary

DAY 1 SYDNEY TO CENTRAL COAST

Our trip commences in Sydney, where we head towards Queensland and the tropics. We’ll make a quick stopover in Kempsey (home of the “Akubra” hat), before arriving at the pristine beaches of the Central Coast. Take in the shimmering Pacific Ocean with a surfing lesson, or just kick back and enjoy the natural scenery. (D)

 

DAY 2 CENTRAL COAST TO BYRON BAY

We hit the beach early for another surf lesson, before heading up the coast. We’ll check out Coffs Harbour, the Banana Capital of Australia, before reaching Byron Bay, the easternmost point on the mainland. World renowned for its superb beaches and eclectic lifestyle, it’s a resort town so good that some visitors have never left! (B)

 

DAY 3 BYRON BAY

A full day in Bryon leaves you with a veritable cavalcade of options: try out sea kayaking, diving, or skydiving perhaps? Maybe you’d prefer to experience the arts and crafts of the local area, or take a walk to Cape Byron. Then again, the beach could be calling your name... (B)

 

DAY 4 BYRON BAY TO GOLD COAST

We start the day with a gourmet brunch – “Topdeck Style”, before we make the short trip to the Gold Coast, one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. On the way we stop at the “Natural Arch”, a spectacular waterfall and an extraordinarily beautiful site. Then after we arrive at Surfers Paradise, get a taste of the truly awesome nightlife on offer. (B, D)

 

DAY 5 GOLD COAST

We’ve got a free day – relax with a few hours of shopping, 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 those beaches that go on for miles. (B)

 

DAY 6 GOLD COAST TO FRASER ISLAND

We stop off in Brisbane today, capital of the state of Queensland. Enjoy a walking tour of the city, indulge in a spot of shopping or just relax over a coffee. Then we pass 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 7 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 8 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 working 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 9 KROOMBIT TO EMU PARK

Try your hand at some optional activities this morning: goat mustering, quad bike riding or trap shooting, 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 10 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 11 THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

If this isn't truly Paradise, we don't know what is. 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 12 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 perhaps a visit to the night markets. (B)

 

DAY 13 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 at your fingertips – tell us all about it over dinner (own expense). (B)

 

DAY 14 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 back to the end of our voyage together. (B)