Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Departures & Pricing

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Welcome to Cairns

   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.

2. 2

   Great Barrier Reef

   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.

3. 3

   Kuranda Scenic Railway & Skyrail

   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.

4. 4

   Depart Cairns

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

Accommodation

Book this rail journey

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

You might also like

Cruise · Carnival Cruise Line · 9 nights

Great Barrier Reef Cruise from Sydney (Jul 2027)

• Includes iced water, cordial, tea and coffee throughout the cruise
• Access to three pools, heated spas and adult-only retreat
• Enjoy sauna, steam room and mini-golf course onboard

Departs 18 July, 2027

From $1,118 pp twin From $2,215 pp solo

Discover more

Cruise · AAT Kings · 6 nights

Cairns to Sydney Highlights

• Cruise the Great Barrier Reef and snorkel among vibrant coral gardens
• Guided tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House
• Exclusive visit to Bondi Surf Life Saving Club and Be My Guest lunch

Departs 10 April, 2027 + More Dates

From $4,690 pp twin

Discover more

Tour · AAT Kings · 5 nights

Melbourne to Cairns Highlights

• Learn about Koorie Peoples, Cultures, and Communities at the Koorie Heritage Trust
• Hands-On Tree Planting Activity with Rainforest Rescue
• Explore the flora and fauna of the Wet Tropics of Queensland - a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Departs 8 April, 2027 + More Dates

From $4,070 pp twin

Discover more