Day 1: Horn Island
Arrive at Horn Island (flight not included) and enjoy the remainder of the day relaxing, or exploring at your own pace. Make your own way to your included overnight accommodation before enjoying dinner. Overnight Coral Princess departure: Gateway Torres Strait Resort, Horn Island. Overnight Oceanic Discoverer departure: Jardine Motel, Thursday Island.

Day 2: Thursday Island and The Tip of Australia
This morning we join a guided tour of Thursday Island, learning of the history of World War II, European settlement and the large pearling fleets. We will also have the opportunity to observe the distinctly different cultures of the Torres Strait Islanders and the Aboriginals. This afternoon, board your small-ship and following a short cruise to Cape York we go ashore and enjoy the sunset and champagne at the “Tip”, Australia’s northernmost point.

Day 3: Magra and Forbes islands
We visit Magra Island for beachcombing and birdwatching. Later, explore historic Forbes Island National Park, its pristine fringing reef provides fantastic swimming and snorkelling opportunities. Stroll the island’s beautiful beaches and perhaps join a walk to view historic coconut plantations.

Day 4: Stanley Island and Davey Reef
This morning we travel ashore at Stanley Island and view the Endaen Aboriginal rock art gallery depicting sailing ships of the last century. This is a unique art site seldom visited due to its isolated location. Time permitting we will also go ashore at Cape Melville, which is famous for its peculiar mass of granite boulders that have tumbled down to the water’s edge. Later, at Davey Reef and cay we enjoy swimming and snorkelling and observe the large seabird rookery.

Day 5: Lizard Island and Ribbon Reefs
We explore secluded Lizard Island, one of the most beautiful islands on the Queensland coast. The energetic may wish to join a guided walk to ‘Cook’s Look’ on the island’s peak. Later, it may be possible to visit the Lizard Island Research Station, where scientists are researching the evolution of the Reef and undertaking research to ensure the sustainability of the Great Barrier Reef for future generations*. Lizard Island’s fringing reef, just metres off the Watson’s Bay beach offers wonderful swimming and snorkelling opportunities. Enjoy a guided nature walk along the spectacular sandy beach.

Day 6: Historic Cooktown
We have the morning to discover historic Cooktown, which is steeped in history with many buildings dating back over a century. You may wish to visit Cooktown’s fascinating museum, featuring artefacts from Cook’s Endeavour. See the original anchor and cannon, jettisoned overboard after the Endeavour struck a reef and started taking on water. Perhaps visit the Botanic Gardens, where kangaroos and wallabies are often seen roaming amongst the colourful native gardens. This afternoon we visit one of the remote uninhabited islands of the Barrier Reef. You may wish to snorkel or simply relax and enjoy the onboard comforts in this idyllic setting. This evening savour your final night cruising the Queensland coast and farewell new-founds friends at the Captain’s Farewell Cocktails.

Day 7: Cairns
This morning we cruise across Trinity Bay before arriving into the Port of Cairns at approximately 08:00am.

This itinerary is an indication of the reef, islands and coastal areas we visit. While every effort will be made to follow this itinerary we do reserve the right to vary this itinerary to make allowances for weather, tidal conditions and any other reasons whatsoever.
*Lizard Island Research Station visit subject to availability.

Rates

Prices start from $3360 per person twin share. Click here for full rate and departure information.

Back / Cruises / Across The Top / 11 Night Cruise