Great Barrier Reef Discovery
with APT Luxury Travel
- 7 nights aboard the Coral Discoverer with daily excursions
- Experiences in seven destinations
- A total of 20 meals
- Save up to $3000 per couple^
Discover the beauty of Queensland with APT’s 7-night expedition cruise through the Great Barrier Reef.
Sail along the stunning coastline, swim, snorkel and dive among the iconic marine species of the Great Barrier Reef and relax on secluded beaches.
- Highlights & Inclusions
- Itinerary
- Dates & Prices
- Combine this cruise with an APT land tour
- Travel Talk Event
- *Terms & Conditions
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in one of the world’s great seascapes with the Great Barrier Reef experts
- Swim, snorkel and dive among the iconic marine species of the Great Barrier Reef
- Visit the turtle rehabilitation at Fitzroy Island
- Learn about ancient indigenous culture and Australian heritage at historic Cooktown
Inclusions
- Seven nights aboard the Coral Discoverer with daily excursions
- Experiences in seven destinations
- A total of 20 meals
- Services of an APT Cruise Director and expert Expedition Team
Day 1: Arrive Cairns, Embark Ship, Double Island
Arrive in Cairns and be transferred to the Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal where you will embark on the Coral Discoverer for your 7-night journey to the remote and untouched Northern reefs. Settle in on board as we anchor off Double Island, explore the ship’s facilities before joining the Captain for welcome drinks on the Sun Deck.
Stay: 7 nights aboard Coral Discoverer
Daily: Dinner
Day 2: Cooktown, Lizard Island
Step ashore in historic Cooktown and delve into the rich heritage of the Guugu Yimithirr, the traditional custodians of the land. Explore a chapter of European history at the site where lieutenant James Cook grounded the HMB Endeavour for repairs in 1770. Stroll through the beautiful flora and the Botanic Gardens, and Visit the James Cook Museum, where you’ll learn about Cook’s landing from an Aboriginal viewpoint, complemented by fascinating artefacts. Later, relax on board or enjoy the ship’s amenities as we cruise toward Lizard Island.
Daily: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 3: Lizard Island
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lizard Island with a day of exploration. Hike to the summit of Cook’s Look for breathtaking panoramic views, or dive into the vibrant underwater world as you snorkel through the giant clam gardens at Watson’s Bay. If you prefer to unwind, stretch out on the soft white sands beneath the shade of she-oak trees and simply enjoy the island’s tranquil charm.
Daily: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 4: Ribbon Reef
Today, seize the rare opportunity to snorkel and dive in the stunning Ribbon Reefs. Stretching 50 to 100 km from the mainland and spanning 200 km from Cooktown to Lizard Island, this chain of narrow reefs—numbered from #1 to #10—marks the dramatic meeting point between the expansive coral ribbons and the deep, mysterious waters of the open ocean as the continental shelf falls away. Join a guided snorkel tour with our expert Expedition Team, and immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.
Daily: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 5: Ribbon Reef
Today, we continue our in-depth exploration of the Ribbon Reefs, delving further into this extraordinary underwater paradise. Each dive site offers its own unique features, from intricate coral gardens and impressive drop-offs to bustling schools of fish and the chance to spot larger marine creatures like manta rays and reef sharks.
Daily: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 6: Escape Reef, Mackay Reef and Cay
Visit Escape Reef for an unforgettable snorkelling experience where you’ll find an underwater world that boasts an array of flourishing coral and wildlife. Then, it’s on to MacKay Reef, where its northern side benefits from extra protection provided by the nearby cay, creating a haven for turtles. This area is also home to giant sea clams, some growing as large as 1.2 metres, each showcasing their own unique colours and patterns.
Daily: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 7: Fitzroy Island, Sudbury Cay
Today, enjoy the serenity of Fitzroy Island. Wander through the enchanting Secret Garden rainforest, or for something more adventurous, you might choose to head to the de-commissioned lighthouse where you’ll find unparalleled views of Coral Sea, islands and the mainland mountain ranges. Snorkel the fringing reef, bathe in the sun on the beach, and experience the unique opportunity to assist the volunteers at the Cairns Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where they care for sick and/or injured turtles for releasing them back into their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, arrive at Sunbury Cay, a secluded and tiny sand cay slightly emerged from the Coral Sea. Take off your shoes and feel the sand granules under your feet while gentle tropical waves caress the shore. Relax with sundowner drinks with your fellow adventurers as you watch the glorious sunset.
Daily: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 8: Disembark Ship, Depart Cairns
Your journey ends on arrival in Cairns. Disembark after breakfast.
Daily: Breakfast
Departure: 20 November - 27 November 2025
| Cabin category | Price per person, twin share* |
|---|---|
| Main Deck Category B | From $6495 |
| Main Deck Category A | From $6995 |
| Promenade Deck Category B | From $7195 |
| Promenade Deck Category A | From $7995 |
| Bridge Deck Balcony | From $9495 |
*Prices are per person, twin share. Advertised prices include maximum advertised saving. Prices and availability are subject to change. Please enquire with your RAC travel consultant for current availability and pricing.
12 nights Great Barrier Reef Discovery
with Tropical Queensland Highlights
Departure: 15 November - 27 November 2025
For full itinerary visit Great Barrier Reef Discovery with Tropical Queensland Highlights - APT
| Cabin category | Price per person, twin share* |
|---|---|
| Main Deck Category B | From $10,995 |
| Main Deck Category A | From $11,495 |
| Promenade Deck Category B | From $11,695 |
| Promenade Deck Category A | From $12,495 |
| Bridge Deck Balcony | From $13,995 |
*Prices are per person, twin share. Advertised prices include maximum advertised saving. Prices and availability are subject to change. Please enquire with your RAC travel consultant for current availability and pricing
May 2025
Travel Talk with APT
Date: 01 May 2025
Join us for an afternoon tea and learn about the world of luxury river cruising & APT's new era of excellence. Enjoy a warm cup of tea and delightful treats as an expert from APT shares first-hand knowledge of onboard enrichments, included experiences and luxury service.
*Terms & Conditions apply. Prices are per person (pp), AUD, twin share and subject to change. Advertised price is based on Main Deck Category B and includes maximum saving. Information correct as at 07 November 2024 but may fluctuate due to changes in surcharges, taxes or currency.
^Save up to $3,000 per couple: Book by 30 March 2025. Save up to $3000 per couple ($1500 per person) valid when booking a 8 Day Great Barrier Reef Discovery or 13 Day Great Barrier Reef Discovery with Tropical Queensland Highlights departing November 2025. A non-refundable deposit of $1000 per person is due within 7 days of booking; Final payment is due 100 days prior to the tours departure date. Offer includes Early Payment Discount of $500 per person when paying in full 10 months prior to departure.
General Information and Conditions: Offers are available for travellers departing from Australia. All pricing and save amounts are in Australian Dollars. Information correct as at 22 October 2024 but may fluctuate due to changes in surcharges, taxes or currency. A strictly limited number of offers are available on selected itineraries and departure dates in selected room categories. Offers are subject to availability, not combinable unless specified, available on new bookings only and may be withdrawn at any time. Your booking contract is with Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd (APT), and incorporates all of the following terms and conditions. APT recommends that you read and understand your contract, and ask APT or your travel agent if you require any clarification.
General RAC Travel terms and conditions apply.
