Great Barrier Reef Discovery

Trip Type: Small Ship Cruise
Australia | 8 Days
Starts From:

NZD 8,195.00 /Person

Embark on a breathtaking 7-night cruise from Cairns aboard the Coral Discoverer. Discover the rich history of Cooktown, unwind on Lizard Island, an...

Great Barrier Reef Discovery

Embark on a breathtaking 7-night cruise from Cairns aboard the Coral Discoverer. Discover the rich history of Cooktown, unwind on Lizard Island, and explore the stunning Ribbon Reefs. Enjoy snorkelling, hiking, and relaxing on pristine beaches. Experience the vibrant marine life and breathtaking views of Australia's Great Barrier Reef.

Arrive in Cairns and be transferred to the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal where you will embark on the Coral Discoverer for your 7-night journey to the remote and untouched Northern reefs. Settle in on board as we anchor off Double Island, explore the ship’s facilities before joining the Captain for welcome drinks on the Sun Deck.

Accommodation
Seven nights, Coral Discoverer

Meals Included
Lunch

Location
Cairns , Australia

Step ashore in historic Cooktown and delve into the rich heritage of the Guugu Yimithirr, the traditional custodians of the land. Explore a chapter of European history at the site where lieutenant James Cook grounded the HMB Endeavour for repairs in 1770. Stroll through the beautiful flora and the Botanic Gardens, and Visit the James Cook Museum, where you’ll learn about Cook’s landing from an Aboriginal viewpoint, complemented by fascinating artefacts. Later, relax on board or enjoy the ship’s amenities as we cruise toward Lizard Island.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cairns , Australia

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lizard Island with a day of exploration. Hike to the summit of Cook’s Look for breathtaking panoramic views, or dive into the vibrant underwater world as you snorkel through the giant clam gardens at Watson’s Bay. If you prefer to unwind, stretch out on the soft white sands beneath the shade of she-oak trees and simply enjoy the island’s tranquil charm.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cairns , Australia

Today, seize the rare opportunity to snorkel and dive in the stunning Ribbon Reefs. Stretching 50 to 100 km from the mainland and spanning 200 km from Cooktown to Lizard Island, this chain of narrow reefs—numbered from #1 to #10—marks the dramatic meeting point between the expansive coral ribbons and the deep, mysterious waters of the open ocean as the continental shelf falls away. Join a guided snorkel tour with our expert Expedition Team, and immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cairns , Australia

Today, we continue our in-depth exploration of the Ribbon Reefs, delving further into this extraordinary underwater paradise. Each dive site offers its own unique features, from intricate coral gardens and impressive drop-offs to bustling schools of fish and the chance to spot larger marine creatures like manta rays and reef sharks.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cairns , Australia

Visit Escape Reef for an unforgettable snorkelling experience where you’ll find an underwater world that boasts an array of flourishing coral and wildlife. Then, it’s on to MacKay Reef, where its northern side benefits from extra protection provided by the nearby cay, creating a haven for turtles. This area is also home to giant sea clams, some growing as large as 1.2 metres, each showcasing their own unique colours and patterns.

Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cairns , Australia

Today, enjoy the serenity of Fitzroy Island. Wander through the enchanting Secret Garden rainforest, or for something more adventurous, you might choose to head to the de-commissioned lighthouse where you’ll find unparalleled views of Coral Sea, islands and the mainland mountain ranges. Snorkel the fringing reef, bathe in the sun on the beach, and experience the unique opportunity to assist the volunteers at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where they care for sick and/or injured turtles for releasing them back into their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, arrive at Sunbury Cay, a secluded and tiny sand cay slightly emerged from the Coral Sea. Take off your shoes and feel the sand granules under your feet while gentle tropical waves caress the shore. Relax with sundowner drinks with your fellow adventurers as you watch the glorious sunset.


Meals Included
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Location
Cairns , Australia

Your journey ends on arrival in Cairns. Disembark after breakfast.

Meals Included
Breakfast

Location
Cairns , Australia

  • Seven nights aboard the Coral Discoverer with daily excursions
  • Experiences in seven destinations
  • A total of 20 meals
  • Services of an APT Cruise Director and expert Expedition Team
  • Immerse yourself in one of the world’s great seascapes with the Great Barrier Reef experts
  • Swim, snorkel and dive among the iconic marine species of the Great Barrier Reef
  • Visit the turtle rehabilitation at Fitzroy Island
  • Learn about ancient indigenous culture and Australian heritage at historic Cooktown
  • Tour Activity Level – Moderate. This tour: some walks with gentle slopes and uneven ground
  • High Zodiac Activity – This expedition cruise uses Zodiacs for most excursions
  • Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
  • APT highly recommends travel insurance
  • Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary, especially in remote locations
  • Prices are for cruise only. Flights not included unless specified

Departing

Finishing

Availability

Room Type: TWIN
Adult Price: NZD 8,195.00
Room Type: DOUBLE
Adult Price: NZD 8,195.00
Provided by
APT
Reference Code:
XPCCDC8
Trip Location
Trip Starts:
Cairns Return, Australia
Trip Finishes:
Australia
Countries Visited:
Australia
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Destination Details
Australia | 8 Days

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