7 Day Brisbane to Cairns Boutique Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef
About
Ready to uncover Queensland’s greatest treasures in just one unforgettable week? This 7-day Brisbane to Cairns adventure is your front-row ticket to Australia’s tropical paradise — think sun-drenched cities, island-hopping through the Whitsundays, snorkelling the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, and exploring lush rainforests and hidden waterfalls in the Atherton Tablelands. Along the way, unwind in laid-back coastal towns like Airlie Beach and Mission Beach, soak in panoramic views, and maybe even spot unique wildlife like cassowaries or platypus. With boutique accommodation, a relaxed travel pace, and a small group of like-minded travellers, you’ll enjoy shared moments, hidden gems, and unforgettable memories. This is Australia, elevated — a perfect mix of comfort, adventure, and nature at its finest.
- Up to 16 travelers in the group
What to expect
Day 1: Brisbane Meet & GreetGuests stay at The Point Hotel Brisbane in deluxe guest rooms with king bed or twin beds, and modern contemporary decor.
- 1BrisbaneIt’s Bris-vegas baby, Queensland’s capital aka Brisbane, soon to be home of the Summer Olympics. Laidback, sunny, optimistic, buzzing – in many ways it’s the quintessential Aussie city. Meet your fellow travellers and friendly guide at 5pm in the hotel reception. After a brief welcome meeting, we head off on an evening orientation tour, and a chance to enjoy a meal together at a local restaurant. 6 hrs
Day 2: Brisbane to Airlie BeachGuests stay at Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach in resort rooms with king or twin beds, coastal-inspired decor and ensuite. Guests enjoy a buffet breakfast at the hotel to start their day before heading out on an exciting tour.
- 1Airlie BeachAirport time! It’s up, up, and away, as we take the plane to Airlie beach, the jewel in the magnificent Whitsundays crown. It’s another choose-your-own-adventure day: take a stroll through the town, find a cool little bar, or explore the local swimming hole, the choice is yours. 6 hrs
Day 3: Airlie Beach to Whitsunday IslandsGuests stay at Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach in resort rooms with king or twin beds, coastal-inspired decor and ensuite. Guests enjoy a breakfast at the hotel before cruising out to the postcard-perfect Whitsunday Islands a coastal escape. Lunch will be provided aboard the award-winning Red Cat Adventures Thundercat vessel while exploring the Whitsundays,
- 1Whitsunday IslandsAfter breakfast, we’re heading out on a full-day speedboat cruise through the postcard-perfect Whitsunday Islands, including a stop at the iconic Whitehaven Beach aboard the award-winning Red Cat Adventures Thundercat vessel. Words can’t quite capture the dazzling white sands, azure waters, and lush greenery of this incredible corner of the world (so we won’t try!). Get up close by snorkeling among colourful coral, playful fish, and maybe even a sea turtle or two. Afterwards, unwind at your own pace or head into town to discover the best local food and drink spots. Included Activities Whitsundays Islands day cruise including snorkeling, Whitehaven beach visit, Hill Inlet walk and lunch 8 hrs
Day 4: Airlie Beach to Mission BeachGuests stay at Mission Beach Resort in comfortable rooms with amenities, set in lush tropical surrounds near the beach. Guests enjoy a breakfast at the hotel in preparation for our biggest day of driving 505km along the scenic Bruce Highway
- 1Mission BeachA change of scenery today as we head through undulating cane fields to picturesque Mission Beach. This afternoon, kick back and enjoy. This is your chance to catch up on some reading, or just sit by the pool with a cold drink and enjoy this tropical paradise. We may be even lucky enough to spot some cassowary in the wild! Included Activities: • Scenic drive along the Bruce Highway 6 hrs
Day 5: Mission Beach to Cairns via Atherton TablelandsGuests stay at Crystalbrook Flynn Cairns in bold, luxurious rooms with plush bedding, vibrant energy, and stylish views. Guests enjoy a relaxing hotel breakfast before travelling to tropical Cairns, where exciting adventures await.
- 1Lake Eacham Crater Lakes National ParkEnjoy breakfast before we travel into the wet tropics of Far North Queensland. We'll discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest en-route to the Atherton Tablelands. Take a dip in the cool water before we head to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with crystal-clear water. Included Activities: • Scenic Atherton tablelands tour including a volcanic crater lake, stunning waterfalls and a chance to spot wild platypus. 3 hrs Admission included
- 2Atherton TablelandsVisit the massive ‘Curtain Fig Tree’. We'll finish the day in Cairns, one of Australia's most vibrant, tropical and energetic cities. 1 hr
Day 6: Snorkelling on the Great Barrier ReefGuests stay at Crystalbrook Flynn Cairns in bold, luxurious rooms with plush bedding, vibrant energy, and stylish views. Enjoy a delicious hotel breakfast before we head out on a coral coast adventure on the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy lunch on your Ocean Freedom reef tour aboard a 20m luxury motor catamaran as part of your full-day package.
- 1Great Barrier ReefIt’s one of the highlights of any trip to Australia: the Great Barrier Reef. Today, we will take a cruise to the famed reef, where we’ll go snorkelling to see incredible marine life. Learn about this special reef with conservation commentary, onboard a 20 metre luxury motor catamaran. This is the big one, so get the camera ready! After a great day at one of the seven natural wonders of the world (and the only one seen from space), join us for an optional dinner to share stories of our adventures together! 8 hrs
Day 7: CairnsStart your day at the hotel with a vibrant breakfast spread featuring fresh, local flavours and waterfront vibes.
- 1CairnsYour tour ends after breakfast. Time to say farewell to your travel buddies after a memorable trip together. 2 hrs
Photos
Reviews
5 on Tripadvisor
What’s included
- Great Barrier Reef day cruise - incl. snorkelling gear & glass bottom boat
- Whitsunday Island & Whitehaven beach day trip & snorkel
- Guided rainforest, beach & lookout walks with park fees included
- Atherton Tablelands guided tour with wildlife spotting
- All transport (private small-group vehicle, domestic flight BNE>PPP & boat trips)
- Lunch
- Brisbane meeting point / Cairns drop-off point
- Breakfast
- 6 Nights’ Private or Shared Boutique Style Hotels/Resorts - all rooms with ensuite
Not included
- International flights are not included.
- Meals not listed in the itinerary can be purchased along the way and supporting local businesses.
- Personal travel insurance is highly recommended
Before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- A medical clearance or doctor’s certificate is required for participants over 70 years old, submitted at least 30 days prior to travel.
- Travellers can expect some light physical activities. Guests should be mobile enough to walk unaided.
- • Mandatory Details: Passenger details are required at the time of booking, including date of birth, food allergies, title or gender for rooming configuration, a contact phone number, passport details. • Medical Conditions: The tour operator must be notified of any known medical conditions at the time of booking. • Fitness Level: Travellers can expect some light physical activities. Travellers should be mobile enough to walk unaided. A doctor’s certificate is required for participants over 70 years old, submitted at least 30 days prior to travel. • Age Restrictions: Children aged 12 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. The tour is not suitable for infants or children aged 11 and under due to the nature of the tour. • Fare Type Options: - Shared Accommodation (BC7-B): is restricted to Adults only 18+ years and over, as travellers stay in a shared room with shared ensuite. Not suitable for children. Solo travellers who book separately will be paired with another solo traveller in a twin room or with someone of the same gender. - Private Double/Twin Room (BC7-S): For Adults and Children staying in a double or twin room with ensuite and must be purchased by Qty2 people staying together. - Private Single Room (BC7-P): Restricted to Adults only (18+ years old and over) with ensuite. • Baggage Limitations: Limited storage space is available on our vehicle. Each traveller may bring 1 x 20 kg travel bag and 1 x 5 kg day bag. Larger or multiple suitcases are by request only. • Itinerary Variations: Itineraries may change due to seasonal weather conditions, and occasionally sites in the parks may close for cultural or safety reasons or restricted swimming access. We prioritise safety and plan accordingly to ensure the best experience for our guests. • Reconfirmation of Details: All travellers are asked to reconfirm their tour details within 7 days prior to departure by calling 02 72291083 or via email.
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Meeting & pickup
Get to know your fellow travellers with a welcome meeting meet & greet at 5:00pm. Meet your tour leader in the foyer of the hotel.
Starts from
- Twin Share - Adults 18+ overTwin Share Ensuite Room: Hotel/Resort style rooms - this fare is available for Adults 18+ over. Solo travellers will be paired with another passenger. Comfort-level Touring: Boutique touring style – small-group experience, relaxed pace, and bespoke itinerary tailored for a comfort-level traveller. Duration: 7 days: 7 Days / 6 Nights journey from Brisbane to Cairns via the Whitsundays Island and Great Barrier Reef Tour Code: BC7-B
- Double Room - Adult or ChildPrivate Double/Twin Ensuite: Hotel/Resort style rooms - this fare is available for Adults + Children travelling together. Must be booked for 2 ppl. Comfort-level Touring: Boutique touring style – small-group experience, relaxed pace, and bespoke itinerary tailored for a comfort-level traveller. Duration: 7 days: 7 Days / 6 Nights journey from Brisbane to Cairns via the Whitsundays Island and Great Barrier Reef Tour Code: BC7-S
- Single Room - Adults 18+ overPrivate Single Ensuite Room: Hotel/Resort style room - this fare is available for Adults 18+ over, ideal for a solo traveller looking for privacy. Comfort-level Touring: Boutique touring style – small-group experience, relaxed pace, and bespoke itinerary tailored for a comfort-level traveller. Duration: 7 days: 7 Days / 6 Nights journey from Brisbane to Cairns via the Whitsundays Island and Great Barrier Reef Tour Code: BC7-P