Townsville

Departing the pier your tour will begin with a city orientation drive en-route to the Great Barrier Reef Headquarters. This complex is a brilliant blend of illusion and reality, which you will discover during your visit to this magnificent aquarium.

The Reef HQ contains the largest coral reef aquarium in the world. At two stories high, with giant panoramic windows, the aquarium features a glass tunnel that enables you to walk below the ocean amongst colourful tropical fish, sharks and stingray. Come face to face with the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet as you discover a beautiful underwater world of brilliant coral, home to thousands of incredible reef creatures and fish.

The Museum of Tropical North Queensland is architecturally stunning. You will have the opportunity to discover the marine exhibits and learn about the pioneers. Hear the fascinating story of HMS Pandora, the ship that chased the Bounty mutineers, only to be shipwrecked on the Great Barrier Reef in 1791.

Resume your sightseeing drive and view the many highlights of Townsville, including the heritage buildings on Flinders Street. Enjoy a panoramic view from Castle Hill before concluding your tour back at the pier.

Sit back, relax and view the highlights of Townsville city centre before travelling 90 miles southwest. Crossing the mountain ranges, ascend gradually to a low plateau of dry, undulating scrubland that is typical of so much of Australia's outback - a land of gum, goanna and kangaroo.

The old gold rush town of Charters Towers grew rapidly after three itinerant prospectors discovered gold in 1871. In the following 30 years, some 7 million ounces of gold were extracted from the region. The enormous gold reserves prompted the building of Australia’s first regional stock exchange. This magnificent heritage building has been fully restored in recent years and is the ideal place to enjoy some morning refreshments.

Grand hotels, banks and public buildings of that era are still in use today affording the visitor a glimpse of what life must have been like back in those boom times. A local prospector will recall tales of the olden days as he provides us with a memorable commentary and insight into the history of Charters Towers.

Lunch is included at a local café before visiting the Venus Battery. In operation crushing gold ore until 1973, hear the story of the battery’s working life as you view this magnificent remnant of the past.

The Billabong Sanctuary is nestled in the hills of the Mutatunga Range. Set among rainforest, wetlands and eucalyptus trees, it provides an ideal environment for wildlife and is a popular spot for local families. Strolling along the pathways, you may see kookaburras, dingoes, Australian black swans, cassowary, cockatoos, birds of prey and other native animals. Take the opportunity to hand feed the free roaming kangaroos and see Australia’s menacing crocodiles being fed.

A close up encounter to cuddle koalas and see the unusual wombats will make for a great souvenir photo. Your time in the park will include a tour by a qualified ranger, offering an expert insight into Australia’s fascinating wildlife. Some free time allows you to explore different habitats at your own pace, or you may want to visit the on-site souvenir shop.

Conclude with a short tour of Townsville. See many of Townsville’s landmark sights such as the Strand Beachfront Promenade, museum, casino and a drive along historic Flinders Street.

Your transfer aboard a luxury catamaran takes you to the outer Great Barrier Reef. Relax on the 1½ hour journey as you glide through the clear waters. On arrival you will have approximately 3½ hours to enjoy the reef.

Snorkeling equipment will be provided for those who wish to see the wonders up close, surrounded by sparking turquoise waters with fringing reefs, on one of the richest, most complex and diverse ecosystems in the world.

This truly is an unforgettable experience.

During your tour, you will enjoy morning and afternoon tea along, with a buffet lunch.