When people are asked to define their version of Australian tropical wonderlands, the Great Barrier Reef — which is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World — is intrinsically linked to the term and it’s easy to see why. This Far North Queensland haven is a bustling tourist attraction with careful infrastructure giving visitors so much to do, while at the same time, it’s a highly-protected area that is actively cared for by every tourist operator that uses it. This means that the Great Barrier Reef and surrounds offer visitors the chance to see pristine colourful reefs, sweeping white-sanded beaches and lush, tropical rainforests in a way that no other place in the world does.
If you want to swim in the warm water, snorkel or scuba in the stunning reef, sunbathe in paradise or wind your way through untouched primeval rainforest bursting with wildlife, you can easily do all of those by booking a Great Barrier Reef cruise itinerary with Carnival Cruise Line. Carnival will show you the best time with activity-packed stop-offs in these amazing Aussie destinations:
Airlie Beach
If you want to explore the spectacular Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is the perfect hub from which to do so. From here, you can choose to explore some of the nearby marine sites via a glass-bottomed boat, get out and snorkel in stunning turquoise water, or enjoy a sunset cruise from Airlie Beach.
A highlight of any Airlie Beach experience is sailing to Whitehaven Beach. With crystal white sand and sparkling water, Whitehaven Beach offers Instagram-worthy pics – no filter required. After a guided walk soaking up the atmosphere of this iconic beach and a refreshing swim, you’ll enjoy a delicious cold buffet lunch before heading back to Airlie Beach.
If traditional maritime adventure beckons, a sailing adventure onboard an iconic tall ship is an ideal way to experience the natural wonders of the Whitsunday Passage. Explore the stunning underwater world of Fringing Reef as you snorkel amongst the coral, turtles and multi coloured fish before helping to raise the tall ship sails on the way home. Inclusive of morning tea, lunch and a happy hour on the journey home, this tall ship sailing adventure is sure to be a highlight of your visit to Airlie Beach.
If you’d prefer to explore dry land, there’s hiking, horse riding, quad biking or just exploring the local markets and surrounds. Whatever you’d expect from a tropical holiday, you’ll find it at Airlie Beach.
Moreton Island
If your idea of paradise is strolling along sweeping white beaches while the azure water laps gently at the shore nearby, then Moreton Island — which is the third-largest sand island in the world — is where you’ll want to head to. Located only 35-kilometers northeast of Brisbane, Moreton Island is an amazing example of conservation, with an abundance of wildlife and marine havens close to shore, you’ll be in heaven on Earth!
If this sounds too relaxing though, you can get the heart pumping with some exciting parasailing, sand tobogganing, quad biking, paddle boarding, 4WDing and more. For an underwater adventure you can discover Moreton Bay’s impressive underwater world on a guided snorkelling tour. Onboard your battery-powered underwater sea scooter, you’ll come face to face with over 200 species of colourful tropical fish, be in awe of the beautiful coral formations and may even see dolphins, turtles, stingrays or dugongs.
Your adrenaline will be pumping during the Moreton Bay Jetboat Thrills Tour, an all-purpose 660hp jetboat. During this thrilling ride of a lifetime, the experienced captain will execute freestyle manoeuvres including figure 8’s, jumps, wave riding, tall slides and 360 degree spins.
Port Douglas
If you’d like to experience the warmer, wilder side of The Great Barrier Reef, then Port Douglas is perfect. Located in Queensland’s far north, Port Douglas is a stone’s throw away from the World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation and the Great Barrier Reef. These three unspoiled locations are a delight to visit and there’s no end to the interesting flora and fauna you’ll see. The town itself is a great spot to explore, with boutique stores, fine dining and tourist attractions to explore.
The Daintree Discovery Centre guided tour is the ideal way to explore this ancient tropical rainforest, said to be over 150 million years old! Starting with a tour along the picturesque Daintree River you’ll embark for a guided tour with an experienced ranger, who will reveal the ecology, history and animal life within this captivating tropical rainforest.
For visitors who enjoy snorkelling and swimming in crystal blue waters, Sail to Beautiful Low Isles tour is perfect. Onboard the luxury 30-metre catamaran Wavedancer, you’ll spend the day exploring the spectacular snorkelling location that Low Isle is renowned for. With colourful tropical fish, large sea turtles and superb giant clams, make sure you bring your camera to capture this picture perfect marine environment.
Cairns
Cairns offers its visitors access to so many amazing and diverse locations, you’ll never experience a moment of boredom! You can dive the Barrier Reef, take a trip to the gorgeous village of Kuranda (where the trip itself is part of the attraction) and explore the Daintree Rainforest to experience the UNESCO World Heritage Listed ‘Wet Tropics of Queensland’. You can also visit the James Cook Museum at Cooktown, or stay closer to Cairns and experience the local hospitality at the galleries, museums and restaurants, as well as the many historic and cultural sites.
A Quad Bike Adventure is the ideal way to explore the 18-acre billabong’s outback trails. This adrenaline pumping experience starts with a safety and introductory lesson before the experienced guides take you out for a day of exhilarating fun. The iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway tour takes you deep into the heart of the picturesque Aboriginal town of Kuranda. After disembarking a coach you’re free to explore this tropical town by shopping or treating yourself to a tasty lunch. To travel down the mountain, you’ll board the renowned Kuranda Scenic Railway taking in the breathtaking views of Barron Gorge and Barron and Stoney Creek Falls.
A Wild River Tube Ride is a great option for families and first time tubers. Led by certified guides, this safe water activity is set in the picturesque Goldsborough Valley. Onboard your single passenger professional twin chamber tube you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride drifting over small rapids.
Whichever location you choose to explore, you’ll never be disappointed choosing a Carnival Great Barrier Reef Cruise. With so many shore excursion activities to enjoy at each stop, your only problem will be choosing which exciting activity to do first! Bon voyage.
