Tropical North Queensland Australia offers a unique opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty and history of this beautiful country, from its idyllic rainforests, botanical gardens and Great Barrier Reef to its Aboriginal beginnings and contemporary modern cities. Following a sightseeing tour of Brisbane, fly to Cairns for a three-night stay at the Shangri La Hotel, La Marina. Your first night is spent immersed in the tropical flavours, dancing, artwork and traditions of Aboriginal culture at the Tjapukai Cultural Centre. The next day, embark a catamaran for the ride to Marine World. You can feed the fish with a Marine Biologist, enjoy the underwater observatory or glass-bottom boat tour, and swim-and-snorkel in this pristine area of the outer reef. Non-swimmers can take a semi-submersible or glass-bottom boat tour, or an optional massage or flight-seeing tour. On Day Three, head to Daintree for a tour of an Aboriginal estate, learn about the Aboriginal culture and traditions, and explore the rainforest, coastal reef, mangroves, and flora and fauna during a stroll on the Jindalba Boardwalk and try your luck at spear fishing. Your Mid-Voyage Land Adventure concludes on Day Four with a picturesque ride aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway through Barron Gorge, then aboard a six-passenger gondola on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway for a scenic rainforest canopy journey from Kuranda to Cairns. Following your tour, transfer to the pier in Cairns and embark the ship.
03MIDBNE-A: Tropical Queensland
Duration: 4 Days/3 Nights
Departs from: Brisbane
Re-join ship: Cairns
Reserve: At least 90 days prior to sailing
This Silver Shore Mid-Land Adventure requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days prior to the sail date. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis, and the programme price is subject to change. Payment-in-full is due within 120 days prior to sailing. Booking made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable for any reason within 90 days of sailing. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90 - 0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.
Visa Information:
Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for Australia. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.
Experience the stunning natural beauty and history of eastern Australia, from its idyllic rainforests, botanical gardens, and Great Barrier Reef to its Aboriginal beginnings and contemporary modern cities, during this four-day, three-night journey to Brisbane, Cairns, Daintree and Kuranda.
DAY ONE - Tuesday, February 5, 2019 - Brisbane/Cairns
Brisbane City Tour
After disembarking the ship, meet your guide and depart for a panoramic sightseeing tour of Brisbane, Queensland's capital city. Brisbane is home to the state's historic and cultural past and present, seat of government and a major port. Brisbane was destined to become one of the bright stars of Australia's colonisation; today, with a population of more than one million, it is the third-largest Australian city.
Parliament House, Treasury Building, Customs House, Cultural Centre, Botanic Gardens
During your drive, pass by highlights that include Parliament House, the Treasury Building, Customs House, Cultural Centre, magnificent Brisbane Botanic Gardens, and many other historical and landmark properties. Today, Brisbane has the look of a contemporary, modern city with glittering glass, concrete towers, hotels and paved shopping malls. The meandering Brisbane River, lush inner-city parks and its unusual blend of historic and modern architecture of Brisbane make this a city not to be missed.
Mt. Cott-ha Photo Stop, Brisbane City, Flight to Cairns
Next, re-board your coach and head for a brief photo stop on Mt. Cott-tha, which climbs approximately 755 feet (about 230 metres) above sea level. Upon arrival at the lookout, take in spectacular panoramic vistas over the sleek skyscrapers of modern Brisbane City, and the picturesque suburban areas from the lookout. Afterward, re-board your coach and transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Cairns.
Shangri-La Hotel, Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to the Shangri-La Hotel, your accommodations for the next three nights. After check-in, the rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. At 6 p.m., meet your guide in the hotel's foyer, board your coach and drive to the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
Tjapukai Cultural Centre
Spend the evening immersed in Indigenous culture. Discover the dancing, flavours and artwork at the Tjapukai Cultural Centre, and experience authentic Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture dating back over 40,000 years. For nearly three decades, the centre has taken great pride in sharing the traditions of the local Djabugay people.
Bama Tribe, Face-Painting, Aboriginal Dreamtime Stories, Ceremonial Fire
Tonight, you are welcomed with bush tucker-inspired canapes and champagne, and have a unique opportunity to meet the Bama, the Indigenous rainforest people. After the Bama people paint your face to link you to their traditional land, they take you on a mesmerising journey with the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo. Follow the Tjapukai warriors to a corroboree celebrating Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, and join the Rainbow Serpent circle to learn traditional language songs before the ceremonial fire is lit with a spectacular fireball shooting skyward.
Tropical Dinner
During an exotic tropical buffet dinner, you are introduced to the traditional indigenous flavours. Sample Australian meats, including kangaroo and crocodile, and feast on local seafood, an array of salads and dessert. After dinner, relax around the fire, meet the performers and have your picture taken with them. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and return to the hotel.
Overnight in a Superior Sea View Room at the Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina - Cairns.
DAY TWO - Wednesday, February 6, 2019 - Cairns
After an early breakfast, meet your guide and depart for the short walk to the Cairns Marina. Upon arrival, embark the Reef Magic II catamaran for this once-in-a-lifetime, approximately 90-minute journey to Marine World, a private pontoon on the Outer Reef.
Marine Biologist Presentation
En route to Marine World, our Marine Biologist conducts an informative slideshow presentation, loaded with interesting facts on the Great Barrier Reef and tips on how to make the most of your reef visit. The presentation is conducted in the main saloon, and relayed to TV monitors throughout the vessel. Reference books are also available, as well as waterproof fish/coral ID cards designed to be taken for diving or snorkelling
Marine World Pontoon
Your complete reef experience includes nearly five hours at the pontoon. This journey is unique, as the vessel anchors at a mooring on the outer reef for your enjoyment. Sites have been selected for their superior water clarity, coral quality and overall diversity of marine life. You can feed the fish with a Marine Biologist, enjoy the underwater observatory or glass-bottom boat tour, and swim-and-snorkel in this pristine area of the outer reef (snorkelling equipment, wet suits and Lycra suits are provided free-of-charge; massages and helicopter flight-seeing tours are available at an additional cost).
Refreshments are served on the air-conditioned vessel (alcoholic beverages are at the expense of each guest). Morning and afternoon tea, plus a tropical buffet lunch, are also included during your visit. The coral and marine life are located just meters away from the platform, making it suitable for all age groups and swimming abilities, from the novice snorkeler to the most discerning diver.
For the non-swimmer, Marine World offers a host of other relaxing, fun-filled and engaging options, both free and at the expense of each guest.
Semi-Submersible Tour
Through large viewing windows, our air-conditioned semi-submersible offers a diver's perspective of the reef without getting wet. Sitting approximately 3.3 feet (about one metre) below the waterline, take a picturesque, approximately 30-minute guided tour of the reef with commentary from a Marine Biologist.
Coral Reef, Fish, Marine Life
Glide through coral gardens and along the edge of coral drop-offs whilst spotting colourful reef fish, schools of larger trevally, red-bass, hump-headed parrot fish, and maybe even a turtle or friendly reef shark. Previous highlights have included the spotting of Minke whales through the windows of the semi-submersible. A white board at Marine World denotes the tour times, so you can organise it around your other activities; the crew can also help sort out a schedule for you. This is a free, inclusive activity that you can do more than once if you wish.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
Similar to the experience of snorkelling, this open-air, glass-bottom boat is smaller and more manoeuvrable than the semi-submersible, enabling your guide to hover over beautiful coral gardens, giant clams, schools of colourful reef fish and more. This tour lasts approximately 30 minutes, and includes a running commentary.
Underwater Observatory, Fish-Feeding Demonstration
Our underwater reef-viewing observatory is open for you to walk through at any time of the day. Watch the introductory scuba divers head off from our moon pool. At lunch time, our Marine Biologist announces the fish-feeding demonstration, which starts in front of the observatory windows before moving to the snorkelling platform. The feeding frenzy includes large schools of red bass, trevally and the star of the show, Wally, our resident giant Maori wrasse. For an exhilarating experience, grab your snorkelling gear and swim amongst the fish, or take a seat on the submersed snorkel platform as the fish bustle in-and-around you looking for a free lunch.
Sundeck with Sun Lounge
The Marine World platform includes a spacious sundeck with comfortable lounges. This is a great place to relax, have a cool drink, enjoy lunch and just soak up the relaxed, tropical atmosphere.
Reef Magic Massage
Take time out and relax with the region's only qualified reef-based massage therapist. Our massage hut is located on the sundeck at Marine World, and offers a range of massage options. Prices for massages start from $20, payable on the day of your visit.
Helicopter Flight-Seeing, Reef, Rainforest
An exhilarating, one-hour helicopter flight-seeing tour over the reef and rainforest is available on a limited basis, and at the expense of each guest. The cost is $699.00 per person. Weight restrictions apply. If this option is selected, a visit to Marine World is not possible. At the conclusion of your visit, commence the short, guided walk back to the hotel.
Dinner is at the hotel's famous North restaurant, which overlooks the Cairns Marina. After dinner, you may opt to explore Cairns at your leisure; perhaps visit the night markets.
Overnight in a Superior Sea View Room at the Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina - Cairns.
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of activity, with a few steps to negotiate to embark/disembark the boat and pontoon, and manoeuvre in/out of the boat. This tour is recommended for guests that are in good physical condition, and can swim in water too deep too stand. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guest with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to airsickness, guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach or water shoes, and bring sun protection and a towel from the ship. It is recommended that guests do not bring valuable items. There are lockers on the Pontoon for AUD$2 fee. Wet and Lycra suits, masks, snorkels and fins are provided; however, guests may wish to bring their own equipment. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate on this tour. Snorkelling equipment is provided. There are no changing facilities on board the boat only on the pontoon. Waterproof cameras are highly recommended. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Guests may not swim or snorkel if they have consumed alcohol. Alcoholic beverages are only served on the return portion of the tour. Drinks are at your own expense whilst at Marine World. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, marine life sightings are not guaranteed. The boat can hold up to 250 people. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. This tour operates in inclement weather and some rough seas. The catamaran cruise may involve some rolling and pitching, with natural sea conditions. Guests may get wet during the sailing. The optional massage and helicopter flight-seeing tour are not included in the price of this tour. This tour may be cancelled at the discretion of the operator for safety reasons. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.
DAY THREE - Thursday, February 7, 2019 - Cairns/Daintree
Cairns, Daintree Rainforest, Cooya Beach, Private Estate Walking Tour
After breakfast at the hotel, meet your guide and depart for the drive north, through rich farming areas en route to the Daintree Rainforest, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival at Cooya Beach, you are met by an Aboriginal guide from the Kubirri Warra tribe and escorted on a fascinating walk of their private estate. During this experience, brothers Linc and Brandon Walker follow the traditions of their ancestors by educating you about their traditional country. Learn
Beach, Mangrove, Coastal Reef, Spear-Throwing, Hunting and Observing Wildlife, Plants
This unique coastal enclave has three diverse ecosystems, the beach, mangroves and coastal reef, which are connected to each other by the ever-changing mudflats and tidal lagoons. Today, the brothers take you along with them as they continue their daily spear-fishing and gathering for their families into the mangroves and mudflats. Learn how to throw a spear, hunt whilst stalking and observing wildlife, and find plants used for food and medicine. Marvel at the experience of being completely immersed in the Aboriginal culture.
Daintree River, Ferry-Ride, Cape Tribulation, Rainforest, Reef, Beach Stroll
Following your tour, re-board your coach and head towards the Daintree River. Upon arrival, cross by ferry to the northern side, then head to Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef. Take a stroll along this magical beach to view the unique eco-system.
Rainforest Restaurant, Lunch, Daintree Ice Cream Factory
Next, proceed for lunch prepared with locally-sourced produce at a beautiful restaurant in the heart of the rainforest. Sit back, relax and enjoy the serenity of the rainforest whilst eating your meal. After lunch, re-board your coach and head south. A stop is made at the Daintree Ice Cream Factory. Enjoy an ice cream made from the unique tropical fruits of the orchard located onsite, and savour flavours not found anywhere else in the world.
Jindalba Boardwalk, Plants, Animals, Ecosystems
Your tour continues with a guided stroll along this picturesque boardwalk. En route, your guide points out the incredible plants, animals and ecosystems unique to this area. Marvel at the large variety of plants, and how they have adapted to the Daintree region. The 'Wet Tropics' feature a complex range of eco-systems. Your guide explains how this has occurred, and why the area is so significant.
Return to the hotel around 17:30 p.m. Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant; your guide walks you to the restaurant. After dinner, you may explore Cairns at your leisure.
Overnight in a Superior Sea View Room at the Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina - Cairns.
Please note: This involves approximately 3.7 miles (about six kilometres) of walking and standing, at times over sand and through mangroves, water and mud, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is recommended for guests that are in good physical condition, and can swim in water too deep too stand. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guest with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to airsickness, guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent and a towel from the ship.
DAY FOUR - Friday, February 8, 2019 - Cairns
Kuranda Scenic Railway, Barron Gorge
After breakfast, check-out, meet your guide and transfer to the Cairns Train Station. Upon arrival, board the Kuranda Scenic Railway for a picturesque ride through Barron Gorge. Built between 1882 and 1891, this approximately 21-mile (about 34 kilometres) railway is considered to be an engineering feat of tremendous magnitude.
Gorges, Mountains, Waterfalls, Tunnels, Bridges, Kuranda Ranges and Village, Butterfly Farm
Your train ride offers breath-taking panoramic vistas of deep gorges and rugged mountains, and passes magnificent waterfalls, through 15 tunnels and across 37 bridges during your journey up the Kuranda Ranges, part of Barron Gorge National Park. Upon arrival at Kuranda Village, some free time is made available to browse through the many art and craft studios, visit the Australian Butterfly Farm (at your own expense), or sit back in a café and watch the colourful, vibrant village life go by.
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Rainforest Interpretive Centre, Red Peak Station
Following your visit, proceed for lunch at Frog's restaurant in the rainforest village of Kuranda. After lunch, experience the breath-taking descent from Kuranda to Cairns aboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, a six-passenger gondola travelling high above the rainforest canopy. Along the way, take in spectacular views of the region and vistas of the sparkling North Queensland coast, and out to the Coral Sea and Green Island. The journey down the mountain includes a stop at the Rainforest Interpretive Centre and Red Peak Station, which offers a unique insight into the intricate ecosystems that make up the rainforest. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the transfer back to the pier in Cairns. Upon arrival, embark the ship.
Please note: This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure requires an extensive amount of walking, at times over uneven, rocky, sandy, grassy, slippery, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, embark/disembark the boat and board/de-board the airplane, and many steps at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to seasickness, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with a fear of tunnels, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to bring lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking and beach shoes, sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, insect repellent, raingear, a bathing suit, towel, and a camera from the ship. The tour sequence and itinerary may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Only Australian dollars are accepted by all vendors; local ATMs are available in some locations visited.
Airlines restrict baggage to 44 pounds (about 20 kilograms) per person; hand-luggage cannot exceed 15 pounds (about 7 kilograms) in weight, and smaller aircraft may be utilised (at the discretion of the airline).
Programme Includes:
- Three-night stay in a Superior Sea View Room at the Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina - Cairns
- Scheduled flight: Brisbane/Cairns (Economy-Class). Business-Class is available upon request at an additional charge and subject to availability, as most aircraft do not offer business seating
- Three breakfasts, four lunches (Day 1 packed lunch) and three dinners (lunch includes choice of two local beers, soft drinks, bottled water; beverage at dinner also includes house wine)
- One morning tea, two afternoon teas
- Tjapukai Cultural Centre
- Face-painting
- Aboriginal story-telling
- Ceremonial fire
- Semi-submersible tour
- Glass-bottom boat tour
- Fish-feeding
- Catamaran-ride
- Underwater observatory, fish-feeding demonstration
- Private Aboriginal estate tour
- Spear-throwing
- Wildlife stalking and observation
- Ferry-ride across the Daintree River
- Kuranda Scenic Railroad-ride through Barren Gorge
- Rainforest-ride aboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
- All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary
Not Included:
Optional massage, helicopter flight-seeing tour, Australian butterfly farm visit, any meals and drinks not specified above, charges incurred by the airlines for excess or overweight luggage, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance, and other personal items. All Land Adventures require a minimum number of participants in order to operate as described. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Silversea's published cruise cancellation policy will remain in effect. All Land Adventure fares are subject to change, and are not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. Onboard Spending Credit may not be applied to the purchase of this programme. All Land Adventures are non-transferable and non-refundable within 90 days of sailing. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. All Land Adventures are owned by independent contractors and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Land Adventures may be modified by the operators at their sole discretion.
