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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
From
$4,070 pp twin share
5 nights
Enquire
Departs 8 April 2027 Returns 27 March 2029
Duration5 nights
OperatorAAT Kings
StyleTour
HighlightFrom vibrant city laneways to tropical rainforest and reef, this 6-day tour pairs culture with natural wonder
Explore heritage streets and discover Koorie culture in Naarm (Melbourne). Encounter unique native wildlife, cruising crocodile-inhabited wetlands in Gimuy (Cairns). Cruise out and snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef - a UNESCO…

From vibrant city laneways to tropical rainforest and reef, this 6-day tour pairs culture with natural wonder. Explore heritage streets and discover Koorie culture in Naarm (Melbourne). Encounter unique native wildlife, cruising crocodile-inhabited wetlands in Gimuy (Cairns) and seeing the vibrant colourful fish of the Great Barrier Reef. With time to unwind and savour local flavours, this is a perfectly balanced taste of Australia’s cosmopolitan charm and coastal beauty.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
8 April 2027
Returns 27 March 2029
Returns
27 March 2029
Duration
5 nights
From pp twin share
$4,070 pp
  • 08 Apr 2027 - 13 Apr 2027
    from $4,070.01 pp twin share *
  • 06 May 2027 - 11 May 2027
    from $4,070.01 pp twin share *
  • 24 Jun 2027 - 29 Jun 2027
    from $4,070.01 pp twin share *
  • 26 Aug 2027 - 31 Aug 2027
    from $4,070.01 pp twin share *
  • 23 Sep 2027 - 28 Sep 2027
    from $4,070.01 pp twin share *
  • 07 Oct 2027 - 12 Oct 2027
    from $4,070.01 pp twin share *
  • 04 Nov 2027 - 09 Nov 2027
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 18 Nov 2027 - 23 Nov 2027
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 25 Nov 2027 - 30 Nov 2027
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 02 Dec 2027 - 07 Dec 2027
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 09 Dec 2027 - 14 Dec 2027
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 06 Jan 2028 - 11 Jan 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 13 Jan 2028 - 18 Jan 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 20 Jan 2028 - 25 Jan 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 27 Jan 2028 - 01 Feb 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 03 Feb 2028 - 08 Feb 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 10 Feb 2028 - 15 Feb 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 17 Feb 2028 - 22 Feb 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 02 Mar 2028 - 07 Mar 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 09 Mar 2028 - 14 Mar 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 16 Mar 2028 - 21 Mar 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 23 Mar 2028 - 28 Mar 2028
    from $4,245.01 pp twin share *
  • 06 Apr 2028 - 11 Apr 2028
    from $5,227.01 pp twin share *
  • 04 May 2028 - 09 May 2028
    from $5,227.01 pp twin share *
  • 22 Jun 2028 - 27 Jun 2028
    from $5,227.01 pp twin share *
  • 24 Aug 2028 - 29 Aug 2028
    from $5,227.01 pp twin share *
  • 21 Sep 2028 - 26 Sep 2028
    from $5,227.01 pp twin share *
  • 05 Oct 2028 - 10 Oct 2028
    from $5,227.01 pp twin share *
  • 02 Nov 2028 - 07 Nov 2028
    from $5,422.01 pp twin share *
  • 16 Nov 2028 - 21 Nov 2028
    from $5,422.01 pp twin share *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

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

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Welcome to Melbourne

    Begin your Naarm (Melbourne) stay along the Yarra River, where the city hums with life by the water’s edge. Later, meet your Travel Director at South Wharf for dinner, a chance to connect and toast the beginning of your journey together.

  2. 2

    Melbourne Sightseeing

    Discover Naarm (Melbourne) on a guided walk with your knowledgeable Travel Director, as laneways and arcades reveal a city built on layers of history, creativity, and style. Pass grand Victorian façades, bold street art, and heritage buildings that speak to its ever-evolving character. Next, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Koorie Heritage Trust Gallery offers meaningful insight into First Nations culture and stories. The rest of the day is yours – venture out to see the adorable Penguin Parade at Phillip Island on an Optional Experience* or simply unwind.

  3. 3

    Melbourne - Cairns

    Lush landscapes and warm air greet you as you arrive in Gimuy (Cairns), the perfect introduction to Tropical North Queensland as you prepare for a day filled with flora and fauna. Begin at Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, where a guided cruise offers the chance to spot crocodiles among the Melaleuca wetlands. Then continue your adventure with a Rainforest Restoration project, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that allows you to contribute to rainforest conservation by planting trees that protect the ancient Notophyll Vine Forest, a vital wildlife corridor. A truly rewarding way to end the day. *If you are departing on an early flight from Melbourne, a boxed breakfast will be provided

  4. 4

    Great Barrier Reef

    Today brings you face-to-face with one of the world’s great natural wonders – the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed marvel and the largest coral reef system on the planet. Step aboard a high-speed catamaran and set out across turquoise waters before choosing how to experience this extraordinary ecosystem up close. Slip into the water to snorkel among vibrant coral and fish in the Great Barrier Reef (equipment provided), or remain dry aboard a semi-submersible, where an underwater observatory offers a window into the reef’s thriving marine life. Along the way, your local guide shares insights that bring this living world into sharper focus. A buffet lunch, plus afternoon tea and coffee, complete the journey before you cruise back to Gimuy (Cairns), the reef still fresh in your memory.

  5. 5

    Cairns Free Time

    Gimuy (Cairns) is yours to explore today, with time to follow your own rhythm in the tropics. You might choose an Optional Experience* to glide above ancient rainforest on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to Kuranda, then wander Kuranda Village before returning on the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway. Or simply take it slow and lounge by the pool, explore the local cafes or soak up the relaxed pace of the city. Later, reunite with your fellow travellers for dinner at Ochre Restaurant, which celebrates Australian flavours and local produce.

  6. 6

    Farewell from Cairns

    Enjoy your final morning in Gimuy (Cairns) with breakfast before your journey comes to an end. Take time to reflect on your experiences before saying goodbye to your Travel Director and fellow travellers. Depart at your leisure.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience - Learn about Koorie Peoples, Cultures, and Communities at the Koorie Heritage Trust Spot the crocs on Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures Wildlife River Cruise MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience - Hands-On Tree Planting Activity with Rainforest Rescue Cruise out and snorkel on the Great Barrier Reef - a UNESCO World Heritage Site Explore the flora and fauna of the Wet Tropics of Queensland - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Day 1 highlights Welcome to Melbourne: Begin your Naarm (Melbourne) stay along the Yarra River, where the city hums with life by the water’s edge. Later, meet your Travel Director at South Wharf for dinner, a chance to connect and toast the beginning of your journey together.
  • Day 2 highlights Melbourne Sightseeing: Discover Naarm (Melbourne) on a guided walk with your knowledgeable Travel Director, as laneways and arcades reveal a city built on layers of history, creativity, and style. Pass grand Victorian façades, bold street art, and heritage buildings that speak to its ever-evolving character. Next, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the Koorie Heritage Trust Gallery offers meaningful insight into First Nations culture and stories. The rest of the day is yours – venture out to see the adorable Penguin Parade at Phillip Island on an Optional Experience* or simply unwind.
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

  • Crowne Plaza Hotel Melbourne
  • Hilton Hotel Cairns
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 6 days and 5 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 08 Apr 2027 and 27 Mar 2029, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Ready to lock in?

Book this tour

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

Enquire about this tour
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Travel at 60 Social Getaways

Travel further when you're not travelling alone

Our Social Getaways are small-group holidays designed especially for over-60s Australians who want the freedom of a great trip without the work of planning every detail. A Travel at 60 host travels with the group, the operator handles the logistics, and you get to focus on the bit that matters — the people, the places, and the stories you'll bring home.

Open to solo travellers too. Many of our travellers book on their own and find their feet quickly in a friendly group of like-minded Australians. Reduced single-supplement options are available on most departures — ask one of our consultants and we'll talk you through what's offered on this trip.

  • A friendly Travel at 60 host — an Australian face on the ground, looking out for the group from day one.
  • Curated local guides & boutique suppliers — the same operators we'd book for our own families.
  • Real itineraries, not whirlwind tours — comfortable transfers, breathing room, and the “off the beaten track” stops the big bus tours skip.

Want to talk it through? Call 1300 414 198 7 days a week, Queensland time, and one of our consultants will walk you through it.

— The team at Travel at 60

A Travel at 60 host with travellers on a Social Getaway
From (twin) $4,070 pp
Enquire