Australia's Great Barrier Reef Cruise
10 Days
from
$4,672 pp*
Highlights:
Australia
(Cairns, Brisbane)
,
Australia & New Zealand Cruises
(Australia Cruise)
Trip Start/End:
Cairns
/
Brisbane
Trip Schedule:
Departs on
06-Dec-2013
Exploring Australia’s Great Barrier Reef on this five night cruise is like having access to the most beautiful parts of this World Heritage area while aboard your own private mega-yacht. The reef is the world’s largest ecological structure and
home to over 1,500 species of fish. Zodiac safaris allow guests to snorkel and swim over pristine and seldom-visited sections of the reef, alive with corals and teeming with tropical fish. Guests will have complimentary access to many of the facilities offered by five star Hamilton Island – Australia’s most celebrated private island destination including access to the snorkelling heaven of Hardy Reef. You sail on to Percy Island to enjoy kayaking in this idyllic setting whilst your crew prepares a fresh seafood beach barbecue. What more perfect way to spend your day than in the shade or in the shallows with a glass of wine in your hand? Make sure you spend some time at either end of your journey in sub-tropical cosmopolitan Brisbane and Cairns with all its natural attractions and World Heritage listed rainforests.
Available Cruise Departure Dates:
Dec 8, 2013
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Cairns
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| The Hotel Cairns (4*)
Tower Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Cairns
| - Private - Cape Tribulation (with lunch) - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (included)
- Dinner (not included)
| The Hotel Cairns (4*)
Tower Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Cairns - Australia Cruise
| - Transfer - Private - Port - Vehicle/Guide/Driver
- Dinner on Board
- Embarkation
| M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef
Ocean View (B) Promo Rate (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Hardy Reef - Australia Cruise
| - Shared: Underwater Viewing Chamber & Semi-Submersible
- Optional: Hardy Reef Scuba Dive
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef
Ocean View (B) Promo Rate (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Hamilton Island - Australia Cruise
| - Shared: Hamilton Island Resort Centre & Cat's Eye Beach
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef
Ocean View (B) Promo Rate (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Percy Island - Australia Cruise
| - Shared: Percy Island Beach & Kayaks
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef
Ocean View (B) Promo Rate (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Lady Elliot Island - Australia Cruise
| - Shared: Swimming & Snorkeling, Glass Bottom Boat
- Optional: Scuba Diving
- Breakfast on Board
- Lunch on Board
- Dinner on Board
| M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef
Ocean View (B) Promo Rate (B,L,D)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 8
- Brisbane
| - Breakfast on Board
- Disembarkation
- Transfer - Private - Port - Vehicle/Driver
| Mantra Southbank (4*)
Studio Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 9
- Brisbane
| - Private - Full Day City Sights - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Mantra Southbank (4*)
Studio Room (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 10
- Brisbane
| - Transfer - Private - International Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Clown Fish
The Hotel Cairns
Day 1: Cairns
A private transfer between Cairns airport and your hotel accommodation, or vice versa, is provided for today.
Accommodation: The Hotel Cairns (4*) The Hotel Cairns (4*) with its impeccably private and tropical ambiance is superbly situated in the heart of Cairns, one block from the famous Esplanade. Architecturally designed, the facade is one of the most beautiful examples of Queenslander heritage, and is a popular talking point among many of the hotel’s visitors and guests. Set back from the street and well shaded by tropical trees and plants the hotel boasts a tourist information service, an outdoor pool and spa, function rooms, on site car park and restaurant. The Hotel Cairns is also very reasonably priced and as such is always buzzing with activity.
Daintree River
Day 2: Cairns
After leaving your accommodation you will be taken onto the Bruse Highway to the Daintree River. You then cross the Daintree River and continue on to the Daintree Environmental Centre for a refreshing morning tea. Here an expert guide will take you on a boardwalk whilst explaining some of the fascinating secrets of one of the world’s oldest rainforests. After the walk, you can learn more through theatre presentations and the interactive displays, or obtain a closer look at life in the rainforest by ascending the Rainforest Canopy Tower. Afterwards, you continue onto Cape Tribulation Beach while your driver explains the rich history of the area. Walk the beach or boardwalk and relax in this tranquil setting. The next stop is for lunch in a rainforest setting. Relax and enjoy the delicious food, and maybe a glass of wine. You then return to the Daintree River, with a stop en route to enjoy the panoramic view from Alexandra Lookout. Re-crossing the river, you join a calm water cruise of this important waterway observing the wildlife that inhabits this environment. Your guide will point out the different types of wildlife and plants that make their home along the river. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive and fearsome estuarine saltwater crocodile! The cruise terminates in Daintree Village, where you will board your coach for the return journey to Cairns.
Accommodation: The Hotel Cairns (4*) 
Great Barrier Reef
M/V Orion
Day 3: Cairns - Australia Cruise
Meet your driver for a port transfer.
Welcome aboard your cruise vessel!
Meet your fellow passengers, and get settled in.
Accommodation: M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef Technically and aesthetically, Orion is arguably the most sophisticated vessel in its class. The Berlitz Ocean Cruising and Cruise Ships guide describes her as "the latest in the quest to build the ideal expedition cruise ship". Constructed by the world-leading Cassens Shipyard in Emden, and launched in November 2003, she boasts a host of advanced design features including technology that sets new standards in sustainable marine environmental practices. Although custom-made for expedition cruising, Orion is the epitome of elegance. No expense has been spared when it comes to the quality of fittings and furnishings, and the range and calibre of onboard recreational facilities are nothing short of five-star. Orion's luxurious appointments means she is more mega-yacht than cruise ship and her guests are few; around just 50 couples, all cared for in 5-star comfort by a crew of 75. Chart your own path less travelled.
Hardy Reef Pontoon
Day 4: Hardy Reef - Australia Cruise
Transfer by Zodiacs to the Hardy Reef pontoon. Cruise guests will have exclusive use of the pontoon and the underwater viewing chamber. Tours on the semi-submersible are also included in today’s activities.
Optional Activity:
For the experienced divers, the resident Divemaster will escort the group to one of the best dive spots at Hardy Reef to explore this magnificent pristine environment.
All scuba equipment is included. Current dive certificates are required.
To participate in an optional activity, contact us for pricing.
Accommodation: M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef 
Cat's Eye Beach
Day 5: Hamilton Island - Australia Cruise
Today you'll have access to the Hamilton Island resort centre and its swimming pool, along with access to Cat’s Eye Beach. The walking trails and the public areas of Hamilton Island are included for all cruise guests today. A shuttle service around the island is also available during your visit today.
Accommodation: M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef 
Sea Kayaking
Day 6: Percy Island - Australia Cruise
Access to the beach, the famous A-Frame Hut and island walking tracks are included today. A beach BBQ will be provided. Sea kayaks will be available, tide and weather permitting, and swimming from the beach is available throughout the day.
Accommodation: M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef 
Snorkeling
Day 7: Lady Elliot Island - Australia Cruise
In addition to swimming and snorkeling on the idyllic beach of Lady Elliot Island, cruise guests are offered an included glass bottom boat and snorkel tour around the island.
Optional Activity:
There are also optional scuba tours for certified divers and beginners who wish to experience scuba diving at Lady Elliot Island. The diving and snorkelling environment here is second to none, given the biodiversity and water clarity.
To participate in an optional activity, please contact us for a price.
Accommodation: M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef 
Brisbane
Mantra Southbank
Day 8: Brisbane
This morning, you'll arrive in Brisbane and disembark from your ship. Bid farewell to your fellow cruise passengers.
Enjoy a port transfer with private vehicle and driver.
Accommodation: Mantra Southbank (4*) Mantra South Bank is located on the southern bank of the Brisbane River and is ideally suited to cater to the discerning needs of both business and leisure travellers. Boasting a central location, Mantra South Bank is within close proximity to Brisbane’s CBD, entertainment and arts districts, cosmopolitan dining, alfresco cafés and premium local attractions. Contemporary in design and style, the property consists of 161 hotel rooms, studios & apartments. All room types feature air-conditioning, bathroom facilities and are spaciously appointed with quality interior fittings. All apartments also feature fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities and private balconies, some with city views. For business guests, all room types offer direct-dial ISDN telephones, voice-mail and broadband internet access. Leisure facilities include an outdoor heated lap pool, spa and fully-equipped gymnasium. The on-site Stone Restaurant and Bar offers a sophisticated dining experience and is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Brisbane Casino
Day 9: Brisbane
Tour the city center of Brisbane and enjoy the many pleasures of South Bank precinct from coffee on the boardwalk to a wander through the Art Gallery. See the charming architecture Brisbane is famous for, view the prestigious suburbs of Ascot and Hamilton and return to the city via Kangaroo Point lookout and Newstead House.
Accommodation: Mantra Southbank (4*) Day 10: Brisbane
Private vehicle and driver transfer from your Brisbane hotel to the Airport.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
- The Hotel Cairns
The Hotel Cairns (4*) - Cairns
The Hotel Cairns (4*) with its impeccably private and tropical ambiance is superbly situated in the heart of Cairns, one block from the famous Esplanade. Architecturally designed, the facade is one of the most beautiful examples of Queenslander heritage, and is a popular talking point among many of the hotel’s visitors and guests. Set back from the street and well shaded by tropical trees and plants the hotel boasts a tourist information service, an outdoor pool and spa, function rooms, on site car park and restaurant. The Hotel Cairns is also very reasonably priced and as such is always buzzing with activity.
- M/V Orion
Ocean View (B)
M/V Orion (5N) Great Barrier Reef - Australia Cruise
Technically and aesthetically, Orion is arguably the most sophisticated vessel in its class. The Berlitz Ocean Cruising and Cruise Ships guide describes her as "the latest in the quest to build the ideal expedition cruise ship". Constructed by the world-leading Cassens Shipyard in Emden, and launched in November 2003, she boasts a host of advanced design features including technology that sets new standards in sustainable marine environmental practices. Although custom-made for expedition cruising, Orion is the epitome of elegance. No expense has been spared when it comes to the quality of fittings and furnishings, and the range and calibre of onboard recreational facilities are nothing short of five-star. Orion's luxurious appointments means she is more mega-yacht than cruise ship and her guests are few; around just 50 couples, all cared for in 5-star comfort by a crew of 75. Chart your own path less travelled.
- Mantra Southbank
Room
Mantra Southbank (4*) - Brisbane
Mantra South Bank is located on the southern bank of the Brisbane River and is ideally suited to cater to the discerning needs of both business and leisure travellers. Boasting a central location, Mantra South Bank is within close proximity to Brisbane’s CBD, entertainment and arts districts, cosmopolitan dining, alfresco cafés and premium local attractions. Contemporary in design and style, the property consists of 161 hotel rooms, studios & apartments. All room types feature air-conditioning, bathroom facilities and are spaciously appointed with quality interior fittings. All apartments also feature fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities and private balconies, some with city views. For business guests, all room types offer direct-dial ISDN telephones, voice-mail and broadband internet access. Leisure facilities include an outdoor heated lap pool, spa and fully-equipped gymnasium. The on-site Stone Restaurant and Bar offers a sophisticated dining experience and is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, and Fees as mentioned in the itinerary, Meals if specified - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (35% of program price). The balance is due 130 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 131 days or more after booking will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 92-130 days will be subject to loss of 35% of program price. 91 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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