Melbourne to Cairns Highlights

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.

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.

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

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.

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 cafés 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.

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.