Days 4-5 Cairns
Arrive 9am on day 4, Depart 5pm on day 5
Situated in tropical north Queensland, Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. These two UNESCO World Heritage Sites are why Cairns is the fourth most popular destination for international tourists in Australia. Enjoy the city's year-round tropical summer weather as you relax beside the man-made lagoon on the Esplanade. Then, experience one of Cairns' two main drawcards: Head into the rainforest in nearby Kuranda, which you can reach by taking the Skyrail Cableway or the Scenic Railway. Cruise to Cairns and take the half-day trip to Green Island — you'll be snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef within an hour of leaving the city.
Day 6 Willis Island (cruise by)
Willis Island is the only permanently inhabited island in the Coral Sea Islands Territory. Located beyond the Great Barrier Reef, this island stands 280 miles from Cairns. The only residents on the 7.7-hectare sandy island are a handful of Australian Bureau of Meteorology staff members working at the weather monitoring station. The main attractions are the sights you'll see as you cruise through the Coral Sea. Spot tropical birds like black noodies, sooty terns and wedge-tailed shearwaters.
Day 7 At Sea
Spend the day your way. Try your hand at surfing whilst on the high seas on the Flowrider simulator. Give your competitive side a run with dodgem cars. Try Ripcord by iFly - indoor skydiving or view the ocean from a different perspective on the North Star - a 360 degree viewing capsule - think London Eye capsules but on the ocean! Ready to just relax? Enjoy the solarium or find a cosy spot by the pool to enjoy a good book. Order a drink from a robot at the Bionic Bar. When you're hungry, you're spoiled for choice with all the dining options.
Day 8 Brisbane
Arrive 6:30am