Explore Australia’s sun-kissed east coast from Queensland’s capital of Brisbane to the tropical hub of Cairns on an epic trip that offers one coastal paradise after another. Take an off-road adventure across the undulating dunes of Fraser Island (K’gari), sail through dazzling waters to discover the impossibly white beaches of the Whitsundays, flop and drop on the palm-fringed sands of laidback Mission Beach, soak up the energy and nightlife of Airlie Beach after sunset and explore the colourful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Get wet and wild in waterfalls and rainforests and salty and sandy on islands and beaches, then retreat to your four-star accommodation for a refreshingly hot shower – Queensland is calling!
Fraser Island (K'gari) - Highlights by 4WD, including Eli Creek, Lake McKenzie & 75-Mile Beach Whitsunday Islands - Full Day Sailing Adventure Whitsunday Islands - Snorkelling Whitsunday Islands - Whitehaven Beach Visit Great Barrier Reef - Day Cruise & Snorkelling Adventure Atherton Tablelands - Highlights Tour
Your east coast adventure kicks off in Queensland’s capital of Brisbane at 10 am today. Head to stunning Fraser Island (K’gari) by ferry. In 2021 Fraser Island had been officially renamed K’gari, the original Butchulla people’s name for the island, meaning ‘paradise’ – you’ll find out why soon enough. The move was celebrated with a ceremony with Elders and representatives of the region’s traditional owners. The name change is a major milestone in a long running campaign by the Butchulla people. This incredible slice of land is the largest sand island in the world, stretching some 123 kilometres down Queensland’s southern coast and tomorrow you’ll head out to explore it in depth, so get a good night’s rest ready for a day of adventure – oh, and look out for dingoes!
There are no meals included on this day.
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting at 10 am as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
After a delicious buffet breakfast, set off on a 4WD adventure through the breathtaking landscape of Fraser Island (K’gari). Visit some of the renowned lookout points – perhaps Indian Head or the Cathedrals – for incredible views of the coast, then take a refreshing dive into the crystal-clear water of Lake McKenzie – an island icon. Visit the Maheno shipwreck and the coloured sands of the pinnacles, Pile Valley’s awe-inspiring Satinay and Brush Box forests as well as Central Station and Wanggoolba, before adventuring along 75 Mile Beach Road – one of the best coastal drives in the country – and taking a dip in the fresh waters of Eli Creek. From tropical dense rainforest to wild offshore waters – witness the contrasting fauna and terrain of this truly unique island as you venture across undulating sand dunes and vast golden beach, in search of that iconic outback creature, the dingo. This evening, relax at your accommodation and perhaps join the rest of your group for dinner at one of the resort’s restaurants.
Transfer back to Brisbane before boarding a flight to Proserpine, then transfer to Airlie Beach, the hub town of the magnificent Whitsundays and home to endless beer gardens, trendy cafes and a lawn-fringed swimming lagoon. You’ll arrive late in the afternoon, so after settling into your lodgings the evening is yours to spend as you please. Perhaps stroll around and explore, or if the sun is still up why not visit some local swimming spots for a refreshing dip. Alternatively, you might feel more at home finding a seat at one of the many bars, grabbing a cocktail or two, and watching the sun set on the shimmering blue water.
Today’s flight departs from Brisbane and arrives into Proserpine. Please note that during certain times of year you will catch a flight from Brisbane to Mackay instead, and will transfer from there to Airlie Beach by private transfer.
After breakfast, take a leisurely day cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the Whitsundays, including a stop at the world-renowned Whitehaven Beach. Words can’t do justice to the dazzling white sands, azure waters and densely verdant vegetation of this incredible corner of the world – Whitehaven is about as impressive as a beach can get, and at 98% pure silica, it’s about as white as a beach can get too. Peel your eyes away from the pristine sands and explore the colourful underwater world surrounding the Whitsundays on a snorkelling adventure. Get up close to a beautiful array of rainbow coral, playful fish and, if you’re lucky, maybe even some friendly turtles. Head back to Airlie Beach and enjoy one last drink in this lively town.
Admire the change of scenery today as you jump into your private vehicle and head through undulating cane fields to picturesque Mission Beach, where World Heritage rainforest meets the colourful Coral Sea. Be welcomed by crystal-clear waters, stunning views and a large population of cassowaries – a flightless bird that thrives in the tropical forests of north-eastern Australia. This afternoon you can enjoy plenty of free time to soak up paradise and do as you please. You might like to wind down with an optional yoga class or go for a swim in the pool. Alternatively, head out in search of the famous cassowary or simply grab a book and find a shady spot to sit and enjoy the tropical bliss.
The breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef is on the bucket list of many travellers who venture to this incredible corner of Australia. The Great Barrier Reef is brimming with colourful coral and an amazing array of tropical fish, and today you’ll get to witness its magnificence with your own eyes on a snorkelling adventure through this underwater paradise. Cruise out to this famous reef this morning as you hear a marine conservation commentary about the importance of preserving the World Heritage-listed region and how you can do your bit. Then, it’s time to put on your snorkelling gear and dive into the dazzling waters, where you can freely explore a wonderfully rich ecosystem. After an incredible day, head back to the hotel, where you can freshen up and get ready for dinner. Compare memories, swap stories, and celebrate your east coast journey with your travel companions.
Enjoy breakfast in a local cafe before venturing into the wet tropics of far north Queensland. Stop off en route to your next destination and discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest. Take a dip in the cool water, then continue on to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with beautiful blue-green hues in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands. Next, visit the unusual yet fascinating Curtain Fig Tree, a magnificent tree with extensive aerial roots that drop 15 metres to the forest floor, forming a curtain-like appearance. The day draws to a close as you head to your final stop, Cairns, one of Australia’s most lively tropical towns. You may like to head out for dinner to compare memories, swap stories, and celebrate your east coast journey with your travel companions.
Your east coast experience comes to an end after breakfast. With so much to do in this bustling hub, enquire about booking some extra nights in Cairns for further exploration of this tropical paradise
Departing | Finishing | Total from AUD | |
Fri 23 Dec 2022 | Fri 30 Dec 2022 | Fully booked | |
Fri 13 Jan 2023 | Fri 20 Jan 2023 | 2 places left! | $4,980 |
Fri 27 Jan 2023 | Fri 3 Feb 2023 | Available | $4,885 |
Fri 10 Feb 2023 | Fri 17 Feb 2023 | Fully booked | |
Fri 24 Feb 2023 | Fri 3 Mar 2023 | Available | $4,885 |
Fri 10 Mar 2023 | Fri 17 Mar 2023 | Fully booked | |
Fri 24 Mar 2023 | Fri 31 Mar 2023 | Available | $4,795 |
Fri 14 Apr 2023 | Fri 21 Apr 2023 | 2 places left! | $4,700 |
Fri 12 May 2023 | Fri 19 May 2023 | 2 places left! | $4,795 |
Fri 16 Jun 2023 | Fri 23 Jun 2023 | Available | $4,610 |
Fri 14 Jul 2023 | Fri 21 Jul 2023 | Available | $4,610 |
Fri 11 Aug 2023 | Fri 18 Aug 2023 | Available | $4,610 |
Fri 15 Sep 2023 | Fri 22 Sep 2023 | Available | $3,919 |
Fri 27 Oct 2023 | Fri 3 Nov 2023 | Available | $4,038 |
Fri 3 Nov 2023 | Fri 10 Nov 2023 | Available | $4,038 |
Fri 17 Nov 2023 | Fri 24 Nov 2023 | Available | $4,038 |
Fri 1 Dec 2023 | Fri 8 Dec 2023 | Available | $4,038 |
Fri 8 Dec 2023 | Fri 15 Dec 2023 | Available | $4,153 |
Fri 22 Dec 2023 | Fri 29 Dec 2023 | Available | $5,225 |
Short note to thank you for a terrific itinerary and choice of accommodations. We got back from Australia having had the best 'real' holiday in years. Loved it! The order of the trip was perfect and all the hotel bookings worked seamlessly.
We had a wonderful time! We so appreciate your arranging everything for us. It all went very smoothly. We just had to show up where and when you told us to. It took away any stress to this leg of our journey.
At long last & very overdue, we wish to thank you very much for all the bookings you made on our behalf for our adventure. We were pleased with all the accommodation bookings you made, we particularly noted we got what we asked for, walk in showers, twin beds & all clean & tidy. Thanks Madi, well done!!
Just wanted to say a big thank you!!! We have now returned from our holiday & it was fantastic. We would really like to thank you for how well everything was organised. Accommodation & tours were fabulous. We really loved how well organised our trip was and this is a credit to you!!! Thanks again, will be recommending you to friends and family.