Cairns & the Great Barrier Reef - 20 Jul 2026 to 31 Mar 2027

On arrival at Cairns Airport, make your own way to your hotel (flights anytime). The rest of the day is at leisure. Take a stroll along the Cairns Esplanade and grab a bite to eat at the Night Markets.

Make your way to Cairns Marina and embark on a unique outer Great Barrier Reef cruise. Enjoy a full day exploring the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. The catamaran docks at Moore Reef alongside a floating pontoon, stationed in a natural lagoon fringed with beautiful coral. With clear water, colourful coral, abundant fish life, friendly resident turtles and Māori wrasse, Moore Reef is the ultimate destination to experience all that the outer reef has to offer. Swimmers of all abilities can snorkel in the natural lagoon (snorkelling equipment provided) or stay dry with our semi-submersible and glass bottom boat tours. You can also visit the underwater observatory to discover the world’s most impressive natural fish tank and get up close and personal with marine life in the touch tank presentations. Enjoy fun-filled moments in the enclosed ocean pool or experience the thrill of swirling down the 30-metre spiral waterslide into the tropical ocean. A trained lifeguard is always on watch from an elevated lifeguard station, and there’s easy entry to the water from two snorkel platforms. Enjoy a tropical-inspired buffet lunch onboard before returning to Cairns.

Your day begins with a transfer to the historic Freshwater Station for the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway journey. Sit back, relax and take in the spectacular views as you wind your way up to quaint village of Kuranda, with breathtaking views of the mountain ranges tropical rainforest and across the rocky Barron Gorge and waterfalls. Winding around curves, across bridges and through hand-hewn tunnels, this amazing engineering feat is a tribute to our pioneers. In Kuranda, explore the village, full of colourful and interesting arts and crafts. You might also consider optional experiences to visit Birdworld, the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary or Kuranda Koala Gardens. Later, board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for your return journey, gliding silently over and through the World Heritage listed tropical rainforest, enjoying beautiful views along the way. Explore this ancient environment at Red Peak and Barron Falls Stations, including the Rainforest Discovery Zone and the Edge Lookout. Upon arrival at Smithfield Station, board your coach and return to your accommodation.   Please be advised that this days itinerary will be modified during the Skyrail renovation works, from the 20th July to 25th October 2026.

Your Short Break concludes this morning after breakfast. Make your own way to Cairns Airport (flights anytime).