Tusa was the perfect way to spend my Saturday. For my father and I, it was also the most fantastic introduction to the underwater-world of diving the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns Queensland Australia.
Our morning started nice and early, with a 7.30am check in, which was perfect, seeing as we were so excited we woke
A Sunset Cruise with Sailaway was just the perfect way to spend a relaxing Saturday evening. As a CairnsBeaches local, the drive up the coast to Port Douglas was just beautiful as always. After arriving at the Marina Mirage in Port Douglas, and parking in one of the ample spaces, we made our way to the Sailaway boat. The boat was easy to spot; it stood out as one of the prettiest boats moored at the marina, with its two high sails and vast sundeck.
As we made our way onto the boat we were greeted by welcoming staff, it felt more as if we were getting on a very wealthy friend’s catamaran rather than taking a tour. We met the other guests who were all as excited as we were, creating a bubbly, happy atmosphere. We walked into the boat and were offered a selection of warm and cold canapés, and an alcoholic beverage from a range of beer and wines.
The fantastic staff on board introduced us to Al the skipper, and directed us onto the sun deck to begin enjoying our evening cruse. After a short but funny safety briefing we were on our way. As we pulled out we waved to all the marina-side restaurants, and laughed amongst our new friends while we watched fish leaping out of the water in front of us.
Out on the ocean, it was a comfortable 15 knots, and great conditions for sailing. In fact we sailed the whole way out, before switching sails, and sailing back in; not a single motor to be heard. The entire trip, the only thing in the horizon was Low Isles in the distance. There was plenty of room on the sundeck to sit back away from the waves; or as a few people preferred, sit on the trampoline nets and freshen up in some cool sea water. As Sailaway is a high performance catamaran the boat was very stable and perfect for those guests that may fear they will suffer from seasickness.
The staff were fantastic the entire experience, laughing with us, all the while keeping our canapés and well priced beverages coming.
All in all, the cruise was a fantastic way to have some light hearted pre-dinner drinks with friends in a totally unique atmosphere. A great way to experience a romantic sunset out on the ocean with a partner, before making your way to one of the many restaurants in Port Douglas for dinner, which is exactly what my husband and I did.
By Bridget Hughes
What a way to complete my working week! Thursday the 22nd September 2011 a 2 nights stay at Sarayi Palm Cove.
Arriving at the Sarayi Palm Cove, I almost had the feeling that I was walking into someone’s personal Mansion on the Beachfront, and that I was going to be staying as their personal guest for my weekend!
The lovely girls on reception were extremely welcoming, explaining how everything worked in the room and pointed out the features of the Hotel, including the rooftop pool & Spa!
The first night, I stayed in a One Bedroom Oceanview Spa Room. It was fully self contained with kitchenette facilities, large living room and private balcony. The bathroom featured a stand up shower over a beautiful white ceramic two person spa bath. The views of the ocean through the ancient melaleuca trees were amazing from the spacious balcony.
The second night I stayed in a One Bedroom Oceanview Room. This room, I felt was a little more spacious, with a larger kitchen and living area however smaller balcony. The bathroom featured a standup walk in shower and the views again were just beautiful.
Both mornings, I woke up to the sound of the waves on Palm Cove beach right outside my bedroom window, and enjoyed breakfast on my balcony looking at the sun glistening off the beautiful blue water in Palm Cove.
I thoroughly enjoyed lying by the rooftop pool with warm spring sun beating down, the surrounding Mountain, Resort & Beachfront Views made me feel like I was sun-baking and bathing on top of the world. I would also like to mention that the pool is a perfect temperature due to the perfect balance of sun and shade it receives throughout the day.
One Friday night, I also had the privilege of dining in their restaurant, ‘The Rising Sun’. This is a very hip casual restaurant with a great variety of meals, ranging from $25-$30 along with a great selection of beer, wine, spirits & cocktails. For my main, I chose the crispy chicken with feta and vegetables, the chicken was cooked to absolute perfection and satisfied the taste buds quite soundly. My friend had the 3 ounce rump steak which was also cooked to his liking, we both left feeling very satisfied and will definitely return.
My stay at the Sarayi Hotel Palm Cove was nothing short of relaxing and comfortable, thank you very much Sarayi, I will definitely be recommending your Hotel to my clients.
For More information about Sarayi Palm Cove please visit our Palm Cove website
Kahla Anthony – Reservations Consultant
To experience everything the Cairns Great Barrier Reef has to offer in a day tour combined with a relaxing sailing day out on the reef, look no further then Passions of Paradise. The service I received was excellent from the moment I arrived to check in at 7:30am at the Passions of Paradise counter within the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal. The boat itself is a custom designed, eco friendly maxi cat that carries a maximum of eighty passengers.
Passions of Paradise
The smaller numbers allow the Passionsof Paradise crew to assist each guest individually with both snorkelling and scuba diving equipment.
Departing Cairns, my day began with an introductory scuba dive briefing whereby one staff member explained the safety features of the vessel and highlighted all the exciting activities for the day. The boat ride out to Michaelmas Cay was filled with diving and snorkelling demonstrations as the crew circulated to make sure everyone was comfortable. I was briefed for my introductory dive where they reminded me of the simple steps of remembering to breathe and equalize. The qualified instructors really simplify scuba diving so that anyone from age twelve and above can see the Cairns Great Barrier Reef from in amongst it. After our dive brief I headed out on the bow of the boat where I was delighted to see a humpback whale spraying water into the sky, it was incredible. I LOVE WHALE SEASON which by the way is July to September dependant on the water temperatures.
Upon Arrival at Michaelmas Cay, I was astounded by the number of bird species inhabiting the sandy white cay. The area is a renowned bird sanctuary and surrounded by turquoise waters it makes for a picturesque snorkelling destination. The glass bottom boat tour was the best start to the day as I saw an abundance of marine life including five green turtles. Our marine biologist guide pointed out the different types of coral and fish as we surveyed the ocean floor. Snorkelling Michaelmas Cay gave us an even closer glimpse of the Great Barrier Reef as we touched giant fish and only stopped to frolick in the sand of the cay.
During my introductory scuba dive our instructor lead us through turtle infested waters where the gentle giants let us touch and swim along side them. There is a particular turtle here called smash who is very cheeky indeed and just loves the interaction with the divers. I saw a giant clam and got a close glimpse at some clown fish hiding in a sea anemone, just like finding nemo. Lunch was an assorted buffet of delicious cold meat and salads, as well as curry for those looking for a warm spicy option. Both alcoholic and soft drinks are available at the bar for purchase.
Paradise Reef was the second and last stop for the day, and as a destination for snorkellers it was absolutely stunning. The colours and textures of the coral are well worth the wait. From there we began the journey back to Cairns but it wasn’t without its entertainment. The Passions of Paradise crew raised the boat’s sails for a relaxing return home with the majority of passengers choosing to relax out on the front deck to sail into the retiring sun. I listened in to a marine biologist talk inside to learn a lot about all the environmental initiatives the Passions of Paradise company is involved in. Not only have they been put in the Queensland Tourism Awards Hall of fame, they are also eco certified and greenies.
Passions of Paradise ticks all the boxes for a company who provides an award winning Cairns Great Barrier Reef tour with all the benefits of a sailing trip. I had a wonderful day out with these guys and want to recommend them to all of you. So go on get out there and Sail the Great Barrier Reef.
News Hot Of The Presses!
Skydivers will be ascending down onto the beautiful beach of Palm Cove in Queensland Australia on Tuesday 24th June 2011 for the inaugral launch and promotion for the new beach jump site for Skydive Cairns.
Channel Seven will be hosting the Sunrise Breakfast Program so if you would like to be on National Television then be at the southern end of the Palm Cove Beach out the front of the Angsana Resort and Spa
If you are a skydiver and would like to be a part of this inaugral jump then give the Tour Specialists office a call for a special deal for this Skydive the Palm Cove Beach promotion.
Call Now 07 4059 2654.
Be on the Beach at Palm Cove at 6 .00am and watch all the mornings activities in the beautiful tropical sunshine.
Come along and help
celebrate this fabulous new skydiving site that is new to Palm Cove Queensland Australia. There will be lot’s of other activities and action happening for all of the family to enjoy
Skydive Cairns on Palm Cove Beach
Well done Skydive Cairns
On Friday the 11th of February, I ventured to Blazing Saddles to experience an exciting afternoon of horse riding. I have ridden many times as a child, but still the adventurous rush that I get from jumping into a canter cannot be easily replaced. Blazing Saddles is situated on 1,200 acres of pure Australian bush land and is only a short thirty-five minute drive out of Cairns. Offering both horse riding and ATV’s, Blazing Saddles is able to cater for both half day and full day activities.
My guides name was Kat and she collected me from my accommodation, taking me up the stunning Kuranda Range and onwards to Blazing Saddles. On arrival we were checked in, greeted warmly and offered tea or coffee. I changed into long pants, suitable shoes and was given a safety helmet, before being designated a horse matching my own individual abilities. Blazing Saddles boasts over seventy horses to choose from, the experienced guides skillfully matched me and my horse up, based on my age, weight, height and riding ability. My horse’s name was Cheeky and he matched my personality and needs perfectly. From there I did a few laps around the arena to practice and anyone needing a little extra help is assisted supportively.
Kat did a safety demonstration, before checking that I was comfortable with leaving the gates. Before long we were out in the open bush land where the horses walk in an easy line and those feeling slightly more confident could choose to pick up the pace. The highly skilled Blazing Saddle guides would normally assess the ability of each rider before determining how fast or slow we should go, but on this occasion as it was just Kat and I, we were quick to break into a canter. It was certainly an amazing experience to ride through a river, trot through the rainforest, chase cattle and break into a canter along the dirt tracks. However for beginner riders they have tailored trails for an easier ride and can organize a trainer to lead young children above the age of four. The land surrounding Blazing Saddles is rich in Australian flora and fauna, and the knowledgeable guides explain everything from the smallest shrubs to the biggest termite nest. There is a chance to go for a swim in a real Australian billabong and also an opportunity to get professional photos done.
After a fun two hours on horseback we returned to platters of fruit as it was the afternoon, both morning and full day session’s include a traditional Australian sausage sizzle. I relaxed and changed into dry clothes before being transferred back to my hotel. My entire afternoon included the most exhilarating and fun two hours of horse riding and I would recommend Blazing Saddles to anyone look for a genuine Australian bush riding experience.
By Brianna Wells
On Tuesday 14th June the Cairns sun was shining, the temperature was just right and it was just another day in Tropical Far North Queensland paradise except, I had the opportunity to join Billy Tea Safaris on their FANTASTIC Cape Tribulation, Daintree Rainforest and four wheel drive Bloomfield Track.
For someone who was born and raised 25 years in Cairns Queensland Australia, I was most amazed with the educational commentary on this Cairns day tour. From information of the North Queensland Coastline and Captain James Cook (who discovered Australia), to the Aboriginal medicinal practices & culture along with rainforest, animal, township, celebrity & general history of the area, our amazing guide did not tell us anything that I already knew. I have lived here all these years and never knew how fragile our environment was and how much damage we are actually doing to our environment.
This Cape Tribulation day tour is for everyone and anyone, even if your touring on your own (like myself), the close interaction with the entire group makes for a relaxed comfortable day and finishes with a few more friends from around the world. Whilst on this informative rainforest tour, you will ride in a custom built 20 passenger four wheel drive vehicle, built for passenger comfort.
You will firstly drive North along the scenic route past Port Douglas to a small town called Mossman, where you will stop for a short tea/coffee/bathroom/get to know each other break. Jump back on board the purpose built long wheel base four wheel drive vehicle for the amazing drive through lush farmland & seascape to the majestic Daintree River, where you will cross on the Daintree River Ferry to the northern part of the Daintree Rainforest, all the while being informed about the 500 million year old Cape Tribulation Rainforest surrounding you.
Billy Tea River Cruise
At the top of the Alexandra Range lookout, the views are absolutely amazing, you can see right out to Low Isles and Snapper Island and all the way back down the coastal range you just drove up.
Just after the lookout, you will take a Rainforest board walk and learn all about the ancient and current aboriginal medicinal practices and culture. After that little work out it is time for a 6 kilometer drive along the world famous four wheel drive Bloomfield Track to reach your next destination of Emmagen Creek where you have the chance to have a swim in the middle of a world heritage Rainforest and sample some exotic tropical fruit s that you have probably never seen or heard of before or you were just to scared to buy from your green grocer as you had no idea on what to do with them. To compliment the fruit you will also enjoy a sip on a fresh brew of the Daintree’s home grown ‘Billy’ Tea.
Once everyone has finished their Tea and fruit, your on to the next destination…Cape Tribulation Beach, where you have some free time to wander the beachfront with the sand between your toes, soak up some sun and take a few snapshots of some historical spots on the beach. By now believe me, you would have worked up quite the appetite so you will head a few more kilometers up the road to your lunch destination at a beautiful old open style restaurant.
Your guide will cook up a good old fashioned Aussie BBQ with mouth watering Steak , sausages and a variety of tasty salads (vegetarian options are also available upon request). After lunch it’s Kangaroo feeding time!!!! You actually get to feed the kangaroo’s yourself… in their enclosed area, not through a fence… right in there with them! After the kangaroos have sniffed you all out of treats you will head back to the Daintree River and board a boat where you will go on a guided boat cruise down the Daintree River, learning all about the Birds, Crocodile & other wildlife in the area. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled as there are lots of crocodiles sunning themselves on the riverbanks, remember to keep all hands inside the boat at all times as…crocodiles can jump!
The 1hr 1/2 drive back down the Coast to your accommodation is just as pretty as it was on the way up, by now, the sun is going down and tucking itself just behind the horizon. The sky’s pinks, blue’s & purples are perfect for one last stop off to take as many snapshots as your heart desires while also taking it in with your own eyes and reflecting over the amazing day you just had.
Thank you Billy Tea Safari’s, you truly are the Cape Tribulation & Daintree Rainforest Specialists!
Ocean Freedom
For a relaxing day out and to enjoy the thrills of the Great Barrier Reef, then look no further then Ocean Freedom. Whether you are looking to explore the Reef from a top of a glass bottom boat or see first hand everything the Ocean floor has to offer by snorkelling or diving, their friendly staff will provide you with a day to remember. Ocean Freedom’s newly refurbished twenty metre luxury cruiser visits two locations on the Upolu Reef, offering two unique destinations to guarantee a fun packed day on the Great Barrier Reef. With its air conditioned saloon and open deck areas it is the perfect boat to enjoy a relaxing day on the reef all in style and comfort. With a maximum capacity of sixty five, the staff are able to provide a pleasant personalized trip catering for the needs of the individual and creating a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
I am a local to Cairns, born and bread some might say and I have been to the reef a lot as a child, but I can honestly say my best day out on the Reef was on Australia day, when I ventured out with Ocean Freedom. The staff were very friendly greeting all their customers with warm smiles and endless jokes. We checked in at 7:15am and were given
Outward Journey
From the moment you check in at 7:15am at the Ocean Freedom Counter at the Reef Fleet Terminal, located at Marlin Marina in the heart of Cairns, you will be greeted with a high level of customer service. At check in, the friendly staff will supply you with a boarding pass and direct you to the A finger terminal where your cruiser awaits departure. Once aboard, breakfast is served on platters filled with danish pastries and fruit, whilst tea and coffee is available throughout the day. A quick and entertaining briefing kick starts the day, as we cruise to one of the Greater Barrier Reef’s nicest cays.
Upolu Cay
The stunning Upolu Cay is a small island situated in the Great Barrier Reef off of Cairns, and the surrounding ocean provides a perfect destination for snorkelling. Ocean Freedom is the first cruiser to the cay in the morning allowing you to see the Upolu Cay it all it’s uninterrupted glory. From here the qualified team on Ocean Freedom accompany you on an adventure drift snorkel tour, whereby an informative guide explains all the coral and marine life visible on the ocean seabed. Getting the opportunity to hold a starfish or sea cucumber, as well as getting to swim with stingrays and turtles makes a phenomenal encounter with the Great Barrier Reef. There is also a wide variety of both soft and hard corals and an opportunity to explore the area on your own, while being carefully watched for by onboard lookouts.
The Wonder Wall
After almost two solid hours of enjoyment at the cay, Ocean freedom travels to one of the most well known spots on the Outer Barrier Reef. The mesmerizing Wonder Wall is located on the outer edge of the Upolu Reef, a wall of stunning coral spreads over a kilometre, scattered with marine life and is clearly visible in the spectacular turquoise waters. The Wonder Wall is the perfect destination for both certified and intro divers. Setting themselves apart from other companies, Ocean Freedom specialises in first time divers with the highest ratio of instructor to diver offered on the Great Barrier Reef. Having one dive master for every two divers creates for a really personal and supportive first dive.
For those who want to explore everything the Great Barrier Reef has to offer without getting their hair wet, Ocean Freedom also has available at this location a Glass Bottom Boat. With two different Glass Bottom Boat tour times, it makes for a flexible and fun activity. The tour guide talks in depth about The Great Barrier Reef as a whole, the threat to its eco system and all about the animals and coral that thrive within its depths. The afternoon is very relaxed with customers choosing to go for a second dive, another snorkel tour or relaxing upon the decks of the cruiser.
Lunch
Lunch is served while anchored at the Wonder Wall. The buffet included a variety of cold dishes including pastas, chicken, prawns, potato and a number of delicious salads. The team at Ocean Freedom, given enough notice, can cater for a diverse range of dietary requirements. Both alcoholic and soft drinks are available for purchase at the on board bar during the day.
Homeward Journey
The journey home from the Wonder wall is approximately an hour and 15 minutes concluding around six full hours of exploring the Great Barrier Reef. Afternoon tea consisting of both fruit and cake platters is served on the return journey to the Marlin Marina in Cairns City. Upon arrival in Cairns, the crew farewell each customer individually and answer any final questions.
What to bring
Swimming togs
Towel
Sunscreen
Cash or credit card (for onboard charges – bar/diving)
A sense of humour
Inclusions
Return trip to the Great Barrier Reef
The benefits of visiting two reef locations
Snorkelling tuition
All snorkelling equipment
Buffet lunch
Danish pastry, fruit, tea and coffee upon boarding
Glass bottom boat tour
Adventure Drift Snorkelling Tour with Marine Naturalist
Buoyancy vests
Lycra suits
Reef talk by marine interpreter
Fish feeding
Six hours on the reef
Tropical fruit, cheese and cake served in the afternoon
High crew to guest ratio
Optional Extras
Certified or Introductory dives
Transfers from your hotel
I had the most INCREDIBLE day out on Tusa Dive T5.
It began with a check in at 7:40am at E finger jetty, Marlin Marina, where I was welcomed warmly by the Tusa Dive staff and introduced to my dive instructor for the day, Jack. After filling out my dive form I settled into the very comfortable and accommodating T5 and helped myself to tea/coffee and array of snacks. The trip out to Milln Reef was very stable and passed by quickly as we busied ourselves getting our snorkelling equipment.
We were split up into three groups based on whether we were snorkelers, introductory divers or certified. In the introductory group, we were given clear instructors about all the equipment and safety procedures, putting my mind at ease.
Upon arrival, I was one of the first in and was impressed at the quality of coral that this area of the Great Barrier Reef had to offer. We began with a guided snorkelling tour which was both informative and fun. It provided each of us with a chance to hold some coral and see some unique marine life.
At lunch, I helped myself to a buffet consisting of cold meats, potatoes and salads. It was delicious. Cold water was always available onboard, whilst soft drinks and alcoholic beverages could be purchased throughout the day.
My dive with Tusa was a lot of fun, mainly because of the small numbers; their ratio is 1 dive master to every four introductory divers. I was even lucky enough to be in a group of three. They get every intro diver to go down a ladder under water, and as you get deeper you do little tests just to check that you’re safe and comfortable, especially if it’s your first time. Within 5 minutes of diving I saw the largest fish EVER! It was in this cave and it was so very cool. I also saw an array of colourful fish including clown fish. Intro dives with Tusa so very stress free with the dive instructor checking all the instruments and I got to just relax and take in the sights. My diver master even took a cool picture of me with a Maori Wrasse, it was so BIG!
Tusa provides an onboard professional photographer so I got a memento of my wonderful trip to the Great Barrier Reef. I bought a CD with a couple of photos of me diving, snorkelling and even just relaxing on the boat. The day was beautiful, the Tusa staffs were friendly and accommodating and the sections of reef the T5 take you to, are so colourful and full of marine life.
2011 will be a significant one for Kuranda Scenic Railway as they will be celebrating their 120th Anniversary. When travelling on the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway you get the opportunity to look back and be marvelled by what still to this day is considered an engineering feat of tremendous magnitude.
The Cairns Kuranda Railway was constructed between 1882 and 1891 and carried the first paying passengers on the 25th of June 1891. Kuranda Scenic Railway is proud to be one of Cairns most historic attractions supplying every visitor with the experience of yesteryear. Watch this space for more details of the celebrations that will be held later in the year.
For more about Kuranda Scenic Railway including Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, please visit The Tour Specialists
Australia, like most parts of the world, is affected by extreme weather conditions from time to time. Recent heavy rainfalls in some parts of Australia, most notably in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales, have caused river levels to rise and severe localised flooding. Our thoughts are with those who have been affected.
The Australian Government is providing assistance to communities affected by the floods and will continue to work with the Queensland Government in providing support.
While visitors are urged to avoid the flood affected areas of Queensland and other states, Australia remains open for business and continues to welcome travellers.
The Australian continent is very large and whilst the floods are widespread, they are in fact restricted to a relatively small part of the country. The vast majority of the major international travel destinations in Australia, including Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef are all completely unaffected.
For the latest flood news and updates we recommend visiting the Queensland Government’s official Queensland floods webpage: http://www.qld.gov.au/floods/ or visit the Bureau of Meteorology http://www.bom.gov.au/ to check weather forecasts for your holiday weather information in Cairns and The Great Barrier Reef Region.
For More information regarding accommodation options available in Cairns and The Great Barrier Reef Region please visit Cairns Holiday Specialists
For more information regarding Tours available from Palm Cove, Cairns, Cairns Beaches and Port Douglas region please visit The Tour Specialists
The water temperature is warm, it’s a few days past the full moon and it’s the time of year when marine biologists and dive enthusiasts get excited!
On cue, the annual phenomenon of coral spawning on the Great Barrier Reef occurred in late November and Silverswift and the Night Dive headed out to Norman Reef over three nights to witness the spectacle.
Described as “an upside-down snowstorm of millions of sperm and eggs”, coral spawning is when the adult coral releases millions of small white eggs into the water. The eggs float to the surface leaving a beautiful white wispy trail and form slicks which can be 9km long and last up to 22 hours.
Coral spawning was unknown to science until 1982, when several marine biologists working on the Great Barrier Reef observed it in the wild for the first time. It’s Mother Nature’s way of maintaining a consistently robust coral gene pool.
Article courtesy of Quicksilver Reef Cruises.
For more about Quicksilver, please visit The Tour Specialists
I visited Port Douglas with my family of 4. We took the Quicksilver cruise to Low Isles (Wavedancer) and the following day took the cruise to the Outer Reef. I have travelled a fair bit since then and done several day cruises in New Zealand and nothing compares to the experience we had with Quicksilver. It was such a smooth experience for us with little children. The food was good, there was nothing more we could have asked for while on the boats. Your staff were friendly, the guided snorkelling tour with the marine biologist was great (though I did panic initially, but was looked after). The boats had plenty of space for everyone and overall it was such a great experience. I don’t think I would have ever mailed to tell you this, until we realised what other companies are offering. Hats off to you guys, keep up the good work! We have recommended your company to all our friends travelling to The Great Barrier Reef.
Thank you!
Mary, Adelaide
For more about Quicksilver Outer Barrier Reef Cruises, please visit The Tour Specialists
For more about Wavedancer and the Low Isles, please visit The Tour Specialists
The drinks flowed and the party roared as Fitzroy Island Resort opened their doors to Cairns new Great Barrier Reef “place to be” Foxy’s Bar and Grill.
With discounted rates as low as $50.00 for return boat transfers to and from the island from Cairns, Sunlover Cruises found themselves full of backpackers, locals and tourists ready to launch the new highly anticipated hotspot!
Barbecue dinner and beer and wine were included until 8:00 PM when the band of the night, being the Chocolate Starfish began to get the party started with the song and dance.
For future nights other acts, renowned DJ’s, comedians, artists and performers will be featured too!
A reggae-themed Christmas lunch with local band Reggae Bliss and, just like back in the old days, a huge 80’s-themed celebration on New Year’s Eve with 80’s Enuff, a tribute band featuring members of some the country’s top acts of the period, including Pseudo Echo.
With all this and more excitement coming from Fitzroy Island, it will put this Great Barrier Reef island back on the map for having the best live music and entertainment parties in Cairns and Far North Queensland far all markets from the backpackers to the Cairns locals.
Boat departures for event nights is 5:30 PM with a return time of midnight. Looking to spend the night on Fitzroy Island? Visit Fitzroy Island Resort
It is the start of the whale season in Cairns, and one of the best ways to spot these beautiful animals on the Great Barrier Reef is by seaplane. The Dwarf Minke whales are usually encountered from May to September and the Humpback whales appear from July to September. The most popular sighting is that of a rare albino whale named Migaloo, which translates to Black Fella in Aboriginal.
This very exciting time is a part of the whale’s annual seasonal migration. The Dwarf Minke whales usually start there annual migration from Victoria to Northern Queensland from March to October with the maximum sighting on the Northern Great Barrier Reef in June and July.
A few days ago Blythe and myself have experienced for the first time of our life a scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef on a seaplane. It was just AMAZING!!
Our flight was at 10am from Cairns. We were so excited about this new adventure. This plane can only take 6 passengers and as soon as we took off we could see the city of Cairns, its lagoon, its marina and the Trinity inlet and its mangroves. Our pilot took us for an amazing 25 min scenic flight over the reef. We had a look at Upolu Cay, Michaelmas Cay, Vlassoff Cay and Arlington Reef before landing to Green Island.
Time for us to enjoy the rest of the day on the island. There is lots to do, you can go snorkelling, diving, go on a glass bottom boat or semi submersible tour, try a Seawalker helmet diving, go for a walk and/or visit Marineland Melanesia the house of Cassius the biggest crocodile in captivity. On the island there is also a resort, 2 restaurants and one bar with a cocktail list (Yes!).
Blythe and I decided to take it easy on that day with a bit of snorkelling and a nice relax on the beach. My favorite location to go snorkelling on Green Island is from the jetty: The marine life is abundant and is a well known place to even spot some green turtles!
Time flew by so quickly it was already 4pm, time to embark the boat for our return trip to Cairns. We arrived in Cairns at 5pm.
Cairns Seaplanes is offering different options to suit your taste and budget:
- Scenic flights: 30 or 40 min scenic flight over the reef
- Secluded sandy cays: For the more romantics why not embark for a secluded sandy cay trip. The isolated beauty of a sand cay on the Great Barrier Reef is something lots of people would dream about! The tour includes a 15-20 minutes scenic flight, 2 hours on the cay, snorkelling equipment, beach umbrella, blanket, canapés and soft drinks; Add the honeymoon basket and make it a day to remember!
- Green Island – Fly/Fly or Fly/Cruise. Optional day packs including the semi submersible, glass bottom boat tour or snorkel gear are available.
- Scenic flight from Green Island are also possible.
Cairns Seaplanes is also available for weddings and charter flights!
For More About Tours to the Great Barrier Reef Please Visit The Tour Specialists
| Category Name | Winner | Sponsor |
| Major Tourist Attractions | Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures | Cairns Post |
| Tourist Attractions | Daintree Discovery Centre | Zinc FM |
| Festivals and Events | Opera in the Outback | KPMG |
| Ecotourism | Daintree Discovery Centre | Queensland Rail |
| Heritage & Cultural Tourism | Torres Strait Heritage | Qantas |
| Indigenous Tourism | Spirit of the Rainforest Tour | Cazalys Cairns |
| Specialised Tourism Services | Tourstogo.com | LOTSA |
| Visitor Information and Services | Mission Beach Business & Tourism | Cairns Airport Pty Ltd |
| Meetings and Business Tourism | Shangri-La hotel | Cairns Convention Centre |
| Major Tour and/or Transport Operators | Sunlover Reef Cruises | Sunsuper |
| Tour and/or Transport Operators | Torres Strait Heritage | Ports North |
| Adventure Tourism | Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours | Lion Nathan |
| Judges Commendation – Adventure Tourism | Calypso Reef Charters | Lion Nathan |
| Tourism Marketing | Wed in Paradise Tropical North Queensland | Seven Cairns |
| Tourism Restaurant and Catering Services | Eden House Retreat & Mountain Spa | Host Plus |
| Tourist and Caravan Parks | Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort | Queensland Events |
| Backpacker Accommodation | Northern Greenhouse | Tourism Queensland |
| Hosted Accommodation | Eden House Retreat & Mountain Spa | Tourism Queensland |
| Standard Accommodation | Jabiru Safari Lodge at Mareeba Wetlands | Cairns Regional Council |
| Deluxe Accommodation | Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort | Lovegreen Photography |
| Luxury Accommodation | Hilton Cairns | Staging Connections |
| New Tourism Development | Australian Muster Experience | Avis |
| Sustainable Tourism | Skyrail Rainforest Cableway | Ergon Energy |
| Young Achiever’s Award | Jonathan Voss Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas |
Intrust Super |
| Hall of Fame | Australian Tourist Publications | Qantas |
| Chairman’s Award | ||
| Outstanding Contribution by an Individual | Robbie Bastion | Qantas |
ARISTOCAT guests were swimming with a new friend on November 5th…..a 5 to 6 m whale shark.
Below is an image of the Whale Shark as it was seen by ARISTOCAT Port Douglas guests as they snorkelled on the Outer Great Barrier Reef today offshore Port Douglas.
It was a sheer joy wildlife experience for ARISTOCAT skipper Scott Nelson and our guests and crew….a very rare experience to swim with a whale shark on the East Coast .
The photo was taken by ARISTOCAT photographer Brice Bastier .
For more about this tour, Please Visit The Tour Specialists
An experience of the Great Barrier Reef you will never forget! Imagine the feeling of sleeping under the stars on the Great Barrier Reef and to have access to several amazing locations for your snorkelling and scuba diving adventure.
The trip departs every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 8am.
Return is approximately 4.30pm the following day.
The Trip
8.00am – Board the boat and meet the crew for your personalized adventure. For my journey I had as a crew Radar the skipper, Rob the dive instructor and Tess the hostess.
With only 4 passengers on board for that trip I felt like it was a private charter. We left Cairns and headed South East to our destination Milln and Thetford Reefs. The boat has a permit to access several dive and snorkel locations and the skipper will choose the best ones depending on the weather.
It was a nice cruise chatting with the passengers on board and sun baking until we reached our first
dive and snorkel location called The 3 Sisters at Milln Reef at about 12pm. No time wasted we jumped in for our first scuba dive of the day. Lots of marine life and lucky me I could spot a reef tip shark on my first dive. After 50 min we came back on the boat and lunch was ready for us: Bread rolls, a selection of cold meats, Greek salad and cheese. A bit of time to go snorkelling and it was time to move to another location, The Pinnacles. The weather conditions were so nice: 10-15 knots wind and the water temperature was 26 degrees Celsius! I couldn’t resist so I decided to join the group for another scuba dive. Rob our dive instructor was so professional; he set up the dive gear for us he likes to make his passengers life easy. The second location was also amazing, we spotted clown fish and a Maori Wrasse.
Back to the boat to relax and enjoy the sunset on the Great Barrier Reef. It was so peaceful to be surrounded by water with no one around us! Tess our five star chef cooked us a massive and very tasty dinner a combination of hot and cold dishes.
And then time for an experience I would never forget: The night dive!
Rob went through all the safety and diving procedures with us and gave us a torch and explained to us what we could expect and what to look for underwater. The night dive is completely different from a scuba dive during the day. Different species of fishes are active at night while some others sleep. Some of them like the parrot fishes even produce a kind of mucus and are tucked away in their bubbles for a sleep: It is to protect themselves from predators. We jumped in the water at 7.45pm.
When we came back on the boat it was good to share this experience on the deck under the stars with a few glasses of wine… A magical and special moment!I like to sleep on a boat. After a full day of activities and with the movement of the boat you can be sure to sleep like a baby.
I was also excited to be able to try an early morning scuba dive. The marine life is also waking up and the underwater light is different. Very early morning while everybody was still sleeping the crew moved the boat to another great location called The Whale Bommie. So at 7.30am we were all ready to jump in the water again! I need to specify that the water was still 26 degrees… I dove with a shark along the bommie he was just cruising along and following us. When we came back on board Tess cooked us a big breakfast with cereals, fruits, pancakes as well as fresh toasts with scrumbled eggs. So tasty.
The weather was so nice that Radar the skipper decided to move to another location for our last snorkel and scuba dive of the day before our return trip back to Cairns.
The trip to Thetford Reef took us approximately 45 min so plenty of time for sun baking!
The site called the Mystery at Thetford Reef was my favourite! So many little caves and an abundance of corals and marine life I was really impressed. This one was just a lazy dive cruising at about 13 m for 50 min. We didn’t want to go back on the boat.
Of course Tess surprised us with another beautiful lunch: 2 pasta dishes, coleslaw, salads, bread and massive chicken drumsticks marinated in soy sauce and honey. You will not starve on that boat!
Then it was time for the crew to set up the boat and get ready for our return sailing back to Cairns. We left at 12.45pm and arrived in Cairns at 4.15pm.
The Great Barrier Reef locations
Flynn, Milln and Thetford Reefs are located South East of Cairns and are known for their abundance of marine life combined with plenty of hard and soft corals.
Milln reef offers excellent wall dives and swim throughs. Whale bommie provides you with a good dive with a depth up to 20 metres. A great site to dive at night where you may be able to spot sleeping turtles, reef crabs and painted lobsters.
Thetford reef is made up of coral bommies with some very exciting wall dives and many swim throughs. You can spot giant clams, butterfly fishes and angelfishes.
Night Diving
It’s different down there at night. The first time you descend into the darkness you will realize that it is almost a completely different world at night. Night diving is usually much more relaxing that diving during the day and you also pay more attention to little details with your torch. Some of the walls are full of sleeping parrot fish in their mucus sacks and turtles. It is the best time to see crabs, lobsters, and shrimp going about their business.
One of the most spectacular parts of night diving is watching the coral feeding and when you turn the lights off you will notice plenty of bioluminescence, amazing organisms that glow in the dark!
Personal Feedback
This is an experience not to be missed if you have enough time in Cairns.
This boat looks like brand new and is spacious. When I begun this trip I had in mind to do only 2 or 3 certified dives and to relax the rest of the time but the reef locations were so amazing that I ended up doing 5 dives. Nice boat, professional crew, delicious meals and excellent dive locations!
I was also very impressed by the friendliness of the crew. Radar selects the best locations and is very conscious about the safety of his passengers (He and Rob even woke in the middle of the night to tighten and secure the boat with another rope as the wind had changed direction during the night), Rob is dedicated to provide the best snorkel and dive adventures and Tess is a really good cook, I couldn’t believe the meals she prepared in her small kitchen!
My favourite spot on the boat is in the hammock. Try it you will understand why…
By: Florence, Tour Desk Consultant
For more about tours to the Great Barrier Reef please visit The Tour Specialists
The chefs at Green Island Resort’s Emeralds Restaurant have been inspired by wonderful local tropical produce, and of course traditional delights, in designing this year’s sumptuous Christmas Day buffet lunch menu.
As well as a treat for house guests, there are limited seats available for day visitors to join in the celebrations at Green Island. In addition to the sumptuous buffet lunch and two hour beverage package, there is also the choice of snorkelling or a glass bottom boat tour included. For just $175 per adult and $80 per child, your day also includes return fast catamaran transfers from Cairns with Great Adventures.
Your Day Includes:
Buffet Christmas Day Lunch at Emeralds Restaurant
2 Hour Beverage Package includes Australian heavy and light beers; Australian red, white and sparkling wines; juices and soft drink.
Return fast catamaran transfers with Great Adventures from Cairns
Choice of glass bottom boat tour or snorkelling equipment.
Bookings are essential as places are limited.
A leading international marine conservation scientist is full of praise for the condition and quality of the Great Barrier Reef off Port Douglas. Dr. Rod Salm, who recently attended the Asia Pacific Marine Meeting of The Nature Conservancy, a US based global organisation whose charter is to preserve the diversity of life on earth, said he was amazed at the health and vigor of the corals he saw when he snorkelled and dived at Agincourt Reef.
A marine conservation scientist focusing on coral reefs, Salm has worked extensively throughout the world’s reef systems and has just passed his 40th anniversary of working in marine conservation. Raised in Mozambique, he has studied coral reefs around the East African Coast, the North and West Indian Oceans up to the mouth of the Red Sea, and the Caribbean and Indonesia.
“I’ve been fortunate to see reefs almost before other humans during my early career,” he said. “In 1973, I worked with a group studying the Crown of Thorns starfish phenomenon and we began in the Torres Strait and followed the Great Barrier Reef all the way down to Lord Howe Island. My strong memories of Agincourt Reef during that trip were a great deal of dead corals in the wake of the starfish plague. This week, I had the opportunity to go out with Quicksilver and I was keenly interested to see how the company managed the tourism experience. I dived and snorkelled, and I was impressed by the management of the day by Quicksilver, and by their reef platform and its surrounding corals. I was actively looking for evidence of human damage to the corals and I saw none.
While I was snorkelling, I saw the most impressive evidence of the healthy state of the corals. As a conservation scientist, my focus is discovering aspects that demonstrate resilience to climate change and I found a great deal of evidence that the corals at Agincourt are in a very positive state. In fact, the corals from the top of the reef down to a depth of 5 metres were as healthy and vibrant as I’ve seen anywhere with good colour, no disease and active growth. What impressed me most was the coral closest to the surface, where the tips extend often into the sun at low tide and dieback is apparent due to this, had thriving growth - the corals were actually mushrooming over the exposed dieback and this is one of the most healthy indicators I could have wished for.”
For more about this tour, please visit The Tour Specialists