Barrier Reef Escape Cruisetour #9

This itinerary starts AFTER the accompanying cruise itinerary.

Cairns is often referred to as the gateway to Tropical Far North Queensland. From here you can visit the lush rainforests or take a boat out to the Great Barrier Reef. Here between the beautiful twin backdrops of rainforest mountain ranges and the sparkling Coral Sea, the town has a spectacular setting. Colonial architecture merges with gracious parks, modern hotels, boutique shops and the palm fringed Esplanade. Avenues of large flowering trees line the wide streets. This is an open, friendly and casual tropical town. Upon arrival at Cairns Airport, join your guide for an afternoon tour to Kuranda. Travel to Kuranda, situated on the Atherton Tablelands in the midst of World Heritage listed rainforest to the west of Cairns. Known as the _eVillage in the Rainforest_f, Kuranda has something for everyone, from its famous markets with a wide range of arts and crafts stalls, to its roadside caf_s and restaurants. Drive through the village of Kuranda, before heading to the award-winning tourist attraction Rainforestation Nature Park, situated only 5 minutes away by road. Enjoy a casual relaxed barbeque lunch, before joining a World War II Army Duck (Amphibious vehicle) and travel deep into the rainforest on both land and water as your guide explains different species of flora and fauna. A visit to Australia is not complete without seeing some of the unique native animals - join a guided tour, and see crocodiles, wombats, snakes, dingoes and a cassowary, and hand feed kangaroos and wallabies. You_fll have the opportunity to have your photograph taken cuddling a koala (optional). You will have some free time in Kuranda village before you board the Kuranda Scenic Railway for the return journey to Cairns. In June 1891 the first trains traversed the Barron River Gorge on the famous Cairns-Kuranda rail line. Since then millions of people have enjoyed the magnificent scenery, majestic waterfalls and spectacular rainforest encountered during a journey on the remarkable Kuranda Scenic Railway. On today_fs train journey you will travel _gGold Class_h in the distinctive Heritage Green carriage adorned with its brass insignias and plush Victorian-inspired interior, which will form the ambient surroundings for this great rail experience. As you sip on sparkling wine or a cold beer and savouring delicious finger foods whilst enjoying the breathtaking natural wonders, your Gold Class Attendant will share wonderful stories and enthralling legends of this magnificent region. Upon your arrival to Freshwater Station you will be transferred to your hotel, where you will check in for your overnight stay and enjoy free time for your independent dinner.

After breakfast in the hotel restaurant, you will take a brief stroll to board your large catamaran to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Our unique destination is Moore Reef. You will be in awe of the magnificent coral formations and giant clam gardens of the Great Barrier Reef. In fact there is more variety of fish on the reef than there is in the entire Atlantic Ocean. Coffee, tea and biscuits will be served as we board our vessel. Relax whilst the Marine Biologists talk to you about our destination. On arrival at the specially constructed reef pontoon you will have the opportunity to snorkel, swim or view the spectacular coral and fish in the underwater theatre, touch tank or aboard the semi-submersible for a short ride as you discover the underwater life. The pontono provides cover for those wishing to get out of the sun. A banquet lunch of fresh seafood, a variety of succulent meats, a sausage sizzle bbq, tropical salads, seasonal fruits and breads will be served at the pontoon. Guests wishing to purchase an additional one way helicopter scenic flight over the reef can do so at the pontoon. Take time to reflect on the journey back to the city, a perfect close to a perfect day as we cruise into port and the skyline to Cairns comes into view. Return to the hotel with the evening at leisure. Dinner will once again be on your own.

Enjoy breakfast at leisure in the hotel restaurant before you join the transfer from the hotel to Cairns Airport for your return flight to Sydney. Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel for your check in and overnight stay. Enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure exploring Sydney or simply relaxing at the hotel. Dinner will be on your own.

Breakfast will be enjoyed at the hotel before being transferred to the airport for your international homeward bound flight.