Bluewater Scuba Opt 5 [CD944-E]
Summary
14 Days / 12 Nights - Cairns, Spirit of Freedom, & Port Douglas
The colourful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, Cairns city is alive with life and charm. Here, warm northern hospitality and enthusiasm are the order of the day. There are so many unique attractions and activities to see when you visit ...cruise to the reef or islands, take a safari to the outback, trek into the rainforest or see it from the rainforest cableway above its green canopy on your way to or from Kuranda. Listed by the World Heritage Society and acclaimed as amongst the world's most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. These year round natural attractions are truly memorable and inspiring.
SPIRIT OF FREEDOM:
Australia's north eastern town of tropical Cairns is the gateway for two of the world's greatest diving icons, the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea. The Great Barrier Reef is a broad chain of 2,900 individual reefs and is the Earth's largest structure built by living organisms, being clearly visible from space. It is an ecosystem of unsurpassed marine diversity and presents the diver with a vision of exquisite natural beauty. Beyond the continental shelf that harbours the Great Barrier Reef, lie the isolated reef systems and crystal clear waters of Australia's Coral Sea. This is home territory for huge schools of pelagic fish and sharks in an undersea world of mountains, pinnacles and sheer walls laced with gorgonian fans and rising from thousands of feet below. The liveaboard dive vessel 7 Day Trip departs Cairns 7:00am Monday and returns 8:00am the following Monday.
End your trip in the winning combination of a cosmopolitan township and a friendly village in Port Douglas. It has world class resorts and shopping, award winning restaurants and superb galleries and craft stores. With pristine wilderness, total tranquility, superb golf courses and a wealth of activities including the magnificent underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, this is a magnetic destination for travelers of all ages and all walks of life.
The colourful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, Cairns city is alive with life and charm. Here, warm northern hospitality and enthusiasm are the order of the day. There are so many unique attractions and activities to see when you visit ...cruise to the reef or islands, take a safari to the outback, trek into the rainforest or see it from the rainforest cableway above its green canopy on your way to or from Kuranda. Listed by the World Heritage Society and acclaimed as amongst the world's most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. These year round natural attractions are truly memorable and inspiring.
SPIRIT OF FREEDOM:
Australia's north eastern town of tropical Cairns is the gateway for two of the world's greatest diving icons, the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea. The Great Barrier Reef is a broad chain of 2,900 individual reefs and is the Earth's largest structure built by living organisms, being clearly visible from space. It is an ecosystem of unsurpassed marine diversity and presents the diver with a vision of exquisite natural beauty. Beyond the continental shelf that harbours the Great Barrier Reef, lie the isolated reef systems and crystal clear waters of Australia's Coral Sea. This is home territory for huge schools of pelagic fish and sharks in an undersea world of mountains, pinnacles and sheer walls laced with gorgonian fans and rising from thousands of feet below. The liveaboard dive vessel 7 Day Trip departs Cairns 7:00am Monday and returns 8:00am the following Monday.
End your trip in the winning combination of a cosmopolitan township and a friendly village in Port Douglas. It has world class resorts and shopping, award winning restaurants and superb galleries and craft stores. With pristine wilderness, total tranquility, superb golf courses and a wealth of activities including the magnificent underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef, this is a magnetic destination for travelers of all ages and all walks of life.
Features
- Accommodation - Cairns (1 Night), Spirit of Freedom (7 Nights), Port Douglas (4 Nights)
- International Flights - Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport to Brisbane; Sydney to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
- Australian Domestic Flights - Brisbane to Cairns; Cairns to Sydney
- Shuttle Transfers - Cairns Airport to Accommodation; Cairns Hotel to Spirit of Freedom Cruise; Spirit of Freedom Cruise to Port Douglas; Port Douglas Accommodation to Cairns Airport
- All other Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
- Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (additional US$15.00 per person)
- F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
- All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
- Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Detailed Itinerary
- 22nd Feb (Day 1) - US Domestic Flight, Hometown to Dallas
- Your Home City flight to Dallas, Texas will be selected to suit the International Departure Flight to Australia
- Please allow 3 hours between arrival of your US domestic flight and departure of your International flight.
- 22nd Feb (Day 1) - International Flight, Dallas to Brisbane
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Today travel with Qantas from Dallas Texas to Brisbane, Australia for your vacation.
- Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).
- 24th Feb (Day 2) - Australian Domestic Flight, Brisbane to Cairns
- Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Cairns.
- 24th Feb (Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to Accommodation
- Travel by shuttle from the Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation in Cairns, Australia.
- Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container. - 24th - 25th Feb (Days 2 to 3) - 1 Night Accommodation in Cairns
- Enjoy 1 night at your 5-Star Cairns City accommodation.
- Experience the genuine warmth of Australian hospitality at your luxury Cairns accommodation. Situated right on the marina, this hotel offers the perfect gateway to the reef, tours, and attractions, providing guests with an unforgettable Cairns getaway.
The hotel private pool offers a refreshing swim, surrounded by the soothing sound of waves. Take in breathtaking views of the marina and mountains while enjoying the contemporary Australian delights at The Backyard Restaurant & Bar. This upscale accommodation in the heart of Cairns is guaranteed to tantalize all your senses.
With its prime location next to the Reef Fleet Terminal and esplanade, just a 5-minute stroll to the city center and a 10-minute walk to the Cairns Convention Centre, you can easily explore all the hot spots. And if you're flying to or from Cairns, the domestic and international airports are only a quick 10-minute drive away.
Hotel Amenities
Free Wifi, Swimming Pool / Hot Tub, Gym, Day Spa, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Bar, Restaurant, Room Service, Paid Parking, Laundry Service
Preferred Room
Deluxe Room (City/Garden View) - 1 King OR 2 Queen OR 2 Singles - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station, Private Balcony, Air Conditioning, Shower Amenities, 800 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets, Hairdryer, Safe, Garden or City View, Flat screen TV, Walk-in shower.
Room Upgrades
- Executive Marina View - 1 King OR 2 Queen OR 2 Singles - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities, 800 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Marina View ; Flat screen TV ; Walk-in shower or bathtub.
- One Bedroom Suite - 1 King OR 2 Queen - Room Features: Kitchenette (Mini Fridge & Microwave) ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities, 1000 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Mountain or City Views ; Flat screen TV ; Shower & bath.
Need to know
Hotel subject to availability. If this hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be substituted. Room booked will be preferred unless otherwise listed on your quote. - 25th Feb - 4th Mar (Days 3 to 10) - 7 Nights - Live Aboard Diving Expedition
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For diving enthusiasts this liveaboard dive trip represents the ultimate dive vacation. Dives include Osprey Reef, on the Coral Sea with other sites such as Cod Hole, Dynamite Pass, North Horn, Bougainville Reef, Steve's Bommie, Temple of Doom and Flare Point. With Gourmet Meals and the Outstanding Level of Service you will feel like you are aboard your own private yacht.
Special Expeditions: In June/July this trip offers the chance to swim with Minke Whales as they congregate in the Ribbon Reefs. Day 1: Depart Cairns & Dive
The Spirit of Freedom courtesy bus will pick you up from your Cairns hotel around 11:00 am to transfer you to Trinity Wharf. There you will be greeted by the Spirit of Freedom crew, who will give you an orientation of the vessel before you depart on your 7-night liveaboard dive trip at 12:00 noon.
Enjoy lunch on board while you cruise to the Outer Great Barrier Reef for an afternoon check-out dive and a twilight or night dive.
After dinner, cruise north to the Ribbon Reefs.
Days 2 & 3: Diving Ribbon Reefs
These two days are spent diving at the most northern of the Ribbon Reefs, Number 9 & 10 Ribbon Reefs.
Dive sites and sequence may vary depending on the weather conditions, but will always include at least one dive at the Cod Hole, where you encounter a family of massive and very friendly Potato Cod. Other sites may include Wonder-wall, Pixie Pinnacle, Challenger Bay, Two Towers, Lighthouse Bommie, and the Snake Pit, just to name a few.
If the current is right, you may also take a drift dive at Dynamite Pass, well known as a channel for sharks to pass through. 4 to 5 dives will be available each day, including a night dive on Friday. On Saturday evening overnight at Watson’s Bay, Lizard Island, and enjoy a sunset BBQ dinner on the top deck.
Day 4: Mountain Walk & More Diving
This morning after breakfast you will have the opportunity to go ashore at Lizard Island. This is a good chance to stretch your legs on land at the halfway point of your trip! We recommend taking the guided walk from Watson’s Beach to Mary Watson’s cottage, over Chinaman’s Ridge, and back to the beach.
Around 11.00 am you will cruise back to Ribbon Reef Number 10 for two dives at a choice of sites including the Snake Pit, Cod Hole, Challenger Bay, Lighthouse Bommie, and Pixie Wall, and Pixie Pinnacle.
If the tide permits you may repeat a dive at the Cod Hole or visit new sites. Depart in the evening for a 10-hour crossing to Osprey Reef in the Coral Sea.
Days 5 & 6: Dive Osprey Reef
Two days will be spent diving Osprey Reef (weather permitting). Australia’s Coral Sea reefs are renowned for their crystal clear water, with visibility ranging from 30 to 100 metres. The landscape is amazing, with sheer walls laced with gorgonian fans, sea whips, and bright yellow soft corals, rising from the ocean floor thousands of feet below.
‘North Horn’ is a dive site at the tip of Osprey where grey reef sharks, silvertips, and the occasional oceanic congregate, and you can experience a close encounter with the Spirit of Freedom shark attraction dive. Four to five dives will be available each day, including a night dive on Monday.
On Tuesday night depart Osprey Reef for overnight travel to the Ribbon Reefs.
Day 7: Dive Bougainville Reef or in the Ribbon Reefs
After overnight travel back to the Great Barrier Reef arrive at Ribbon Reefs Number 3 where you will dive such sites as the sensational Steve's Bommie, Temple of Doom, and Flare Point. A second option for this day, in special weather conditions, is to head south from Opsrey to Bougainville Reef, known for its unusual underwater landscape and caverns, and its partially submerged wreck. This evening you will cruise overnight back to Cairns.
Day 8: Arrive in Cairns
Arrive Cairns approximately 06:30am. Breakfast will be served on board and hotel transfer will be arranged for approx 8:00am.
Operates
Departs Cairns every Thursday at 12:00pm & returns to Cairns every Thursday at 8:00am
Includes- Chef-prepared drinks meals & snacks, wine and soft drinks are included with the evening meal.
- Tanks, air fills, Nautilus Lifeline and weight belt. Full equiptment rental available for fee.
- Daily cabin service.
- Cairns hotel or Airport transfers.
- GST and all reef levies and fees.
Need to Know
Please note that above itinerary is a sample only and sites may vary, or the sequence may change. Access to the Cod Hole and the Coral Sea is weather conditional and while every attempt will be made to keep to the advertised itinerary, the Coral Sea and specific sites on the Great Barrier Reef are not guaranteed.
Diver experience recommendation: Advanced Diver certification with minimum 20 ocean dives including 5 dives in the last 12 months.
Diver Health: If you have a medical condition or are currently taking prescription medication, you will need a medical clearance. For further details refer to our Diver Information form or contact our Reservations team.
Luggage Restrictions: Due to light aircraft restrictions, your total weight of your luggage is limited to 20 kilograms/ 45 lb per person, including your dive gear and carry-on luggage.
Snorkelers: Only the Ribbon Reefs portion of this trip is suitable for snorkelers.The (at times) deeper reefs tops and swift currents of the Coral Sea, make the Coral Sea reefs only suitable for very experienced snorkelers and strong swimmers with a high level of fitness. You may not be able to snorkel at every site. Please note that while you may be safe under the watchful eye of the 'look-out' crew, a snorkel buddy may not always be available and you may be required to snorkel alone and to wear floatation equipment.
Room Types Available are:
Ocean View Deluxe
Located on the top deck with internal stairwell access to the main deck, as well as external access to the top deck and dive deck, the Ocean View Deluxe Cabin boats a 10.5m² area with 3 large windows overlooking the starboard side of the vessel.
A comfy double bed will ensure you are well rest for a full day of diving. The room features bedside tables, wardrobe and 26" flat screen TV.
The cabin is fully air-conditioned and has its own private bathroom.
Double or Sole occupancy only.
Ocean View Standard
Ocean View cabin is located on the top deck with internal stairwell access to the main deck, as well as external access to the top deck and dive deck.
As the name suggests, you will enjoy stunning views from this air conditioned 7.2m² cabin, which contains a double bed, private bathroom, a wardrobe and 26” flat screen TV.
Double or Sole Occupancy only.
Stateroom
The largest of all cabins onboard the vessel, The Stateroom cabin is located in a private area on the lower deck, close to the dive deck and dining saloon.
Fully air-conditioned, this spacious 12m² cabin contains a queen size bed, a private bathroom, extra shelving, wardrobe, bedside tables and 26" flat screen TV.
Double or Sole Occupancy only: no twin share option available.
Standard Double/Twin
Spirit of Freedom has seven standard double or twin share cabins. Five of these cabins contain a double bed with a single bed over the top, bunk style. One cabin contains just a double bed and one cabin has two single beds.
These cabins are all located on the lower deck, with easy access to the main deck and have an average area of 10m² square metres in area.
Fully air-conditioned, the cabins have an ensuite bathroom and also contain a wardrobe, personal reading light and a bedside table.
Please advise your preference for double or twin share when placing your booking. Sole occupancy also available.
Quad Share
Located midships on the lower deck, the quad share cabin containing four single beds, bunk style and is a great options for groups or families as you explore the Great Barrier Reef on your epic dive adventure.
This 9m² cabin has easy access to the main deck and includes a private ensuite bathroom and personal reading lights for each bed.
The cabin is fully air-conditioned and also contains a wardrobe, as well as storage under the bottom two bunks.- Chef-prepared drinks meals & snacks, wine and soft drinks are included with the evening meal.
- 4th Mar (Day 10) - Spirit of Freedom Transfer to Novotel Hotel in Cairns
- Travel by shuttle from your Cairns accommodation to your vacation accommodation in Port Douglas, Australia.
- Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container. - 4th - 8th Mar (Days 10 to 14) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Port Douglas
- Enjoy 4 nights at your 4-Star Port Douglas accommodation.
- Nestled in the heart of Port Douglas, this boutique resort offers a haven of tropical tranquility and luxury. As you step into this coastal paradise, you'll find meticulously designed apartments that exude contemporary style and comfort. Each apartment comes with a private balcony, providing views of lush gardens, serene pools, or glimpses of the Coral Sea.
The resort is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, with easy access to Four Mile Beach for those eager to explore Far North Queensland's natural beauty. The lively Macrossan Street is a short stroll away, offering boutique shops, art galleries, and delightful dining options.
Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this tropical oasis has you covered. You can choose to explore the resort's tropical gardens, bask by the inviting pool, or simply soak in the coastal ambiance. It's an ideal destination to make your dreams of coastal living a reality.
Hotel Amenities
Free Wifi, Swimming Pool, BBQ Facility, Bar, Restaurant, Room Service, Free Parking, Airport Transfers Extra Fee
Preferred Room
Studio Premier - 1 King Bed OR 2 Single Beds - Room Features: Kitchenette (Mini Fridge & Microwave), Private Balcony, Air Conditioning, Shower Amenities, Hairdryer, Pool Towels, WiFi, Flat Screen TV, Shower Over Bath.
Room Upgrades
- Studio Superior - 1 King Bed - Room Features: Kitchenette (Mini Fridge & Microwave) ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Pool Towels ; WiFi ; Washer & Dryer ; Flat Screen TV ; Shower Over Bath ; Sun Lounges ; Direct Pool Access.
- 1 Bedroom Premier - 1 King Bed - Room Features: Full Kitchen ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Pool Towels ; WiFi ; Washer & Dryer ; Flat Screen TV ; Bathroom with Shower.
- 1 Bedroom Superior - 1 King Bed - Room Features: Full Kitchen ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Pool Towels ; WiFi ; Washer & Dryer ; Flat Screen TV ; Bathroom with Shower ; Sun Lounges ; Direct Pool Access.
Need to know
Hotel subject to availability. If this hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be substituted. Room booked will be preferred unless otherwise listed on your quote. - 5th - 7th Mar (Days 11 to 13) - Free Days to Explore Port Douglas
- Experience the distinctive laid back atmosphere and low-rise tropical old world charm of Port Douglas!
- Experience a range of attractions from one of the many galleries to the great shopping districts. Stop for a bite to eat at the Marina Mirage and take a walk on the boardwalk while you're there. Take a visit to Port Douglas' first church, Saint Mary's by the Sea and see fantastic views of the Coral Sea and distant mountains. Don't forget to soak up the sun at Four Mile Beach or even take in a game of golf.
What ever your tastes happen to be, Port Douglas is a great place to relax and simply enjoy the many great features of this town.
Photo credit: Tourism and Events Queensland - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - White Water Rafting
- White Water Rafting on the Barron River
- Experience the thrill of white water rafting down the Barron River. No previous experience is necessary to raft these exhilarating grade 2 and 3 rapids through Barron Gorge National Park. Passengers need to bring a swimming suit, lace up shoes or reef sandals that will get wet, sunscreen and a change of clothes and towel.
1/2 Day Tour departs 12:30 pm and returns 6:30 on Tues/Thur/Sat/Sun
Minimum age required is 13yrs old.
AUD$25.00 Environmental Levy to be paid at the time of the Raft Ride. - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Great Barrier Reef Cruise with 2 Certified Dives
- Today you will cruise out to the crystal clear waters, beautiful corals and incredible fish life found at the Agincourt Ribbon Reefs located on the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, which is the best possible for boat diving and snorkeling.
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Plunge into aquamarine seas...
The crystal-clear waters, beautiful and incredible fish-life found at the Agincourt Ribbon Reefs, 70km North East of Port Douglas and on the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, enable us to offer the best possible day boat diving.
This includes drift & wall dives, isolated pinnacles surrounded by pelagic fish, and coral gardens with their endless variety of colourful wrasses, cods, parrot fish, clown fish, angel fish, clams and anemones, that make a healthy living reef so beautiful.
Certified divers can enjoy up to 3 guided dives, using large tanks and computers for extended bottom time. With local knowledge and access to more than 30 reef sites, three sites are chosen each day according to tidal and weather conditions.
Certified Divers are required to produce their Certification Cards plus complete paperwork once on board. Your Dive Master will brief divers on the sites, their equipment and safety procedures. Gear included.
NB: $6.50 Marine Park & Fuel Levy Payable on Board (Not Included) - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Daintree Dreaming Tour
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This fun, exclusive tour allows you to join in a real Aboriginal cultural experience, combining
pristine natural beauty of the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park. A day you will
never forget! -
Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours: Travel to Cooya Beach north of Port Douglas and meet with the Kubirri Warra brothers who follow the traditions of their ancestors. This special place is a traditional fishing ground of the Kuku Yalanji. This unique coastal place has three diverse ecosystems - beach, mangroves and coastal reef - that are connected to each other by the every changing mud-flats and tidal lagoons.
The brothers teach their guests how to throw a spear and demonstrate how to search and hunt for fish, mud crabs and mussels. Learn about bush tucker and medicines before enjoying homemade damper on the balcony of the family home and taste your catch of the day.
Welcome to Country at Mossman Gorge: You are welcomed with a traditional 'smoking' ceremony. This ceremony is conducted by Aboriginal people with specialised cultural knowledge and will protect you whilst visiting Kuku Yalanji country.
Mossman Gorge Centre: Enjoy a delicious lunch infused with local flavours.
Mossman Gorge: Wander into the lush rainforest of the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park - Mossman Gorge, home of the Kuku Yalanji people and experience one of the world's oldest and most beauLful rainforest. An easy going walk is across boardwalks, tracks & bridges protecting the delicate eco system that adorns spectacular waterfalls and mountain ranges. Your guide will explain the rich flora, fauna and eco system of this amazing rainforest. Ensure you bring your swimming bathers so you can make the most of the beautiful private swimming hole that is encased in the rainforest.
What to bring: Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, towel, swimmers and bottle of water.
Please note: Itinerary can operate in reverse subject to tides. - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Cape Tribulation & Jungle Surfing
- Spend the day in Tropical Queensland's World Heritage Daintree Rainforest. Includes the best of Cape Tribulation and the Daintree, with Jungle Surfing, lunch, and guaranteed wildlife spotting.
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Begin the day by visiting the Wildlife Habitat. See the endangered cassowary, along with other wildlife, as well as the opportunity to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies. Have your picture taken with a koala, snake, or crocodile (extra cost). Morning Tea included. Arrive at Cape Tribulation and enjoy lunch before embarking on a fantastic adventure of Jungle Surfing.
Set in the pristine Daintree rainforest at Cape Tribulation, Jungle Surfing takes you on a unique rainforest tour where your feet don't touch the ground. Fly through the trees on flying fox ziplines, stopping at tree platforms to take in spectacular bird's eye views over the treetops. Highly trained abseiling masters and scientist guides will make sure your adventure is exciting, educational, and safe.
Cross the Daintree River on the Daintree River Cruise spotting Crocodiles, birds and other animals in the wild as you journey through the mangroves. Finally, venture to Alexandra Lookout for magnificent views of the Daintree River and Coral Sea - where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Rainforest.
After an exciting day, relax and enjoy some afternoon tea before heading back to your hotel.
Operates: Daily: Does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year's Day and the day of the annual Ironman event held in June. Approximately 8:15am - 6:00pm
Includes: Hotel pick-up/drop-off; Scenic Coastal Drive; Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas; Morning Tea; Daintree River Cable Ferry; Tropical Lunch; Jungle Surfing Canopy Tour; Alexandra Lookout; Daintree River Cruise
Need to Know: Please advise at the time of reservation any disability requiring special attention while on tour. Your tour guides will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled customers, however we or the tour operators are not responsible in the event they are unable to accommodate your needs. Harnesses available to fit children aged 4, up to adults weighing 120kg/260lbs. No prior experience or specific fitness require. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted to travel on this tour. It is suggested you bring a water bottle, towel (for the beach), sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, a camera and some cash. Please advise of dietary requirements at time of booking. - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Kuranda Rainforestation & Heritage
- A wonderful day awaits as you are transported on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway to Kuranda and Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens. You’ll tour the rainforest on the amphibious Army Duck, enjoy a performance by the Pamagirri Dancers and partake in a traditional Aussie-style BBQ lunch. Finally, board the Skyrail Cableway and glide over sparkling waterfalls and ancient rainforest habitat.
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Boarding the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway, an amazing journey awaits you as you travel one of the world's most scenic rail routes through hand-hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges.
Your shuttle coach will transfer you to Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens and tropical rainforest where a number of unique attractions await you. Board the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a different look at the rainforest. An experienced guide will show you unique tropical fruits, ancient rainforest plants and point out native animals as you meander through the rainforest. Join the Dreamtime Walk for an insight into ancient Aboriginal Culture.
The Pamagirri Dancers perform a range of native dances in the Rainforest Amphitheatre that reflects their humor and excitement of their culture. Enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch before visiting the Koala & Wildlife Park. Cuddle a koala (own expense), smile at a crocodile and hand feed the kangaroos before returning to Kuranda.
At your pre-allocated time, board Skyrail, an experience which takes you over the rainforest canopy with stops along the way allowing you to take a stroll or visit the CSIRO Interpretive Centre.
Operates:
Daily (except Christmas Day) Subject to railway/Skyrail maintenance schedules
Depart b/w 7:00-8:00am, Return 5:30pm (approx.)
Includes:
- Return transfers from your central Port Douglas accommodation
- Kuranda Scenic Railway (Gold class upgrade available)
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
- Entry to the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary
- Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience
- Entry to Rainforestation Nature Park
- Koala & Wildlife Park
- Army Duck Rainforest Tour
- Aussie style BBQ Lunch
Need to Know
This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form. Discover the Skyrail App: Using GPS technology and an innovative design, the Skyrail app allows you to fully immerse yourself in the ancient rainforest’s remarkable story of survival over an outstanding 130 million years. Unlock this ancient landscape’s many secrets and gain fascinating insights about the world’s oldest tropical rainforest when you download the Skyrail app.
Upgrades
Gold Class on the Kuranda Scenic Railway to include dedicated attendant service, lounge style seating, gift pack, selection of Queensland produce, coffee, tea, wines and beer.
Diamond Class on Skyrail Cableway to include a glass bottom gondola and expedited check in. - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Horseback Riding in Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation
- Experience the Aussie bush and rainforest by horse. There is something therapeutic about exploring the natural environment on horseback. Escape the everyday as we ride between two natural wonders of the world - the pristine Daintree Rainforest on one side and the Great Barrier Reef on the other.
- Locally owned and operated horse trail rides in one of the world's most scenic settings. For 2 ½ hours, you can choose to walk, trot or canter along the golden sands and through the water followed by a gentle ride through the stunning Daintree rainforest and a tropical fruit orchard. There are two sessions a day - 8.30am for the early risers or 2.30pm for those who want to ride into the sunset! Morning ride departs @ 8.30am and returns @ 11.30am; Afternoon ride departs @ 2.30pm and returns @ 5.30pm.
The rides can be enjoyed by all whether you are a beginner or skilled rider with our team ensuring all are partnered with a horse that suitably reflects their riding ability.
Maximum group size is 15 and we follow a ratio of one guide to every six riders. Once at the beach the group is broken up into smaller groups according to levels of riding experience. This is to ensure that the experienced riders are given the freedom to go for a really good canter along the beach and the beginner riders are given guidance to make their riding experience as enjoyable as possible.
We supply water bottles on the ride and an assortment of soft drinks on your return.
Please wear jeans or long pants, a t-shirt or polo shirt (no singlets) and bring along a pair of socks as we provide riding boots and helmets. Boots, helmets and suitable clothing (if required) are provided on arrival and everyone undertakes a short lesson in horsemanship before getting underway!
Private rides also available upon request (additional cost) - 1 or 2 hour rides, min of 2 passengers required
Min age 7years old.
Max Weight is 240 lbs (110kg) - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Hot Air Balloon Ride
- If you've ever wanted to ride in a hot air balloon, picturesque Atherton Tablelands is the perfect place! Treat yourself with this tour from Port Douglas for a sunrise fly!
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Your day starts early, with a big payoff! An air conditioned coach will pick you up at your Port Douglas hotel and drive an hour west to the Atherton Tablelands. Experience the fun & unique sensation of a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands, Australia. Enjoy the picturesque landscape at sunrise with 30 minutes minimum flying time. Breathe in the wide-open spaces! This is a great experience with Australia's largest fleet of balloons and a fun and highly trained crew to maximize the fun of your morning.
Your balloon will return and the group enjoys hot air balloon pack-up games and lots of laughs. You'll then have some time to enjoy the Australian bush at a historic country homestead.
Operates
Daily
Need to Know
- Payable on Board (Not Included) - 30.00AUD* Civil Aviation Insurance Levy
- Child Age Restriction: 3 Years and Under Not Allowed to Fly
Times
Pick-up around 5:00am and Drop-Off around 9:30am.
Inclusions
- Free door to door air conditioned coach transfers to most Port Douglas accommodations
- Spectacular 30 minute Hot Air balloon ride
- Expert interpretive commentary
- Cross Country Hot Air Balloon Chase
- Hot Air Balloon Ride Commemorative Certificate
Upgrades
Extended Fly (60 minutes):
- Luxury Fly with Extra Sleep In
- Personal Chauffeur & Private Transfers
- Extended Hot Air Balloon ride
- 5 star gourmet beachside breakfast at Palm Cove
- A bottle of Champagne to take home
- Complimentary photo set - delivered digitally - Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sunset Sail
- Great Barrier Reef Cruises. This is a MUST DO for visitors to Port Douglas! The Sunset Sail is the ultimate way to relax and unwind whilst enjoying the fantastic views of the coral sea and Daintree Rainforest. Pure luxury sailing, great music and ambiance, first class service.
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Enjoy the thrill of pure sailing! Relax with an exhilarating afternoon onboard the new luxury 'Lagoon' sailed from France. Soak up the peace and tranquility of a Tropical Sunset over the Coral Sea with spectacular mountain views while enjoying a welcome drink and canapés.
Operates: Daily. 2 Hour Tour from 4:30pm - 6:30pm from Port Douglas Marina
Need to Know Bring along a camera, light jacket in cooler months, cash for bar. You will make your own way to the Marina from your Port Douglas Accommodation. Minimum Ages for the tour is 12 years old.
Inclusions Approximately 1.5 hours sailing on the Coral Sea off the coast of Port Douglas; A welcome drink of wine, sparkling wine, beer, cider or soft drink; Fully licensed premises, additional drinks available for purchase on board; A selection of delicious Hot/Cold canapés including, Vegetarian California Rolls, Coconut Prawns, Selection of Greek Dips with antipasto/cheese/olives, Assorted Thai Spring Rolls & Beef Salad Cucumber cups. First class service; Environmental Management Charge (subject to change) - 8th Mar (Day 14) - Shuttle Transfer, Port Douglas Accommodation to Cairns Airport
- Travel by shuttle from your Port Douglas vacation accommodation to the Airport in Cairns, Australia.
- Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container. - 8th Mar (Day 14) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Sydney
- Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Sydney.
- 8th Mar (Day 14) - International Flight, Sydney to Dallas
- Today departure from Sydney to Dallas, Texas.
- 8th Mar (Day 14) - US Domestic Flight, Dallas, Texas to Hometown
- The connection flight to your Home City from Dallas will be selected to suit the International Arrival flight from Australia.
- Please allow 3 hours between arrival of International flight before departure of your US domestic flight.