5-Day Great Barrier Reef Yacht Charter: Cairns & Southern Coral Cays
Embark on a captivating Great Barrier Reef yacht charter from Cairns, exploring the stunning Southern Coral Cays and vibrant reef systems. This itinerary is crafted for families and those seeking a blend of pristine beaches, accessible snorkelling, and the convenience of a shorter journey. Imagine building sandcastles on Fitzroy Island, or discovering colourful clownfish at Michaelmas Cay. Your Great Barrier Reef yacht charter offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, with ample opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and simply soaking in the tropical Australian sun. It’s an ideal introduction to the wonders of the Queensland coast.
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- DAY 01
Cairns
Your Great Barrier Reef yacht charter begins in Cairns, the vibrant gateway to tropical North Queensland. Board your yacht and settle in, perhaps enjoying a stroll along the Esplanade before dinner.
- Cairns Esplanade Lagoon
- Rusty's Markets (weekends)
- Cairns Botanic Gardens
- Sunset from the marina
- Anchorage
- Marlin Marina, Cairns
- Dining
- Dundee's Restaurant on the Waterfront
- DAY 02
Fitzroy Island
A short cruise brings you to Fitzroy Island, a continental island covered in rainforest with beautiful beaches and coral reefs just offshore. Enjoy snorkelling, hiking to the lighthouse, or relaxing on Nudey Beach.
- Snorkelling at Welcome Bay
- Nudey Beach (voted Australia's best beach)
- Hike to Fitzroy Island Lighthouse
- Turtle Rehabilitation Centre visit
- Anchorage
- Welcome Bay, Fitzroy Island
- Dining
- Foxy's Bar & Cafe (casual), or yacht's chef
- DAY 03
Green Island
Sail to Green Island, a stunning coral cay perfect for families. Explore the island's unique rainforest, walk on the white sandy beaches, and discover the vibrant marine life just off the shore.
- Glass-bottom boat tour
- Snorkelling around the jetty
- Rainforest boardwalk stroll
- Marineland Melanesia crocodile farm
- Anchorage
- Green Island Lagoon
- Dining
- Emeralds Restaurant (Green Island Resort), or yacht's chef
- DAY 04
Michaelmas Cay
Experience the natural wonder of Michaelmas Cay, a protected seabird sanctuary and a prime snorkelling location. The shallow, clear waters are ideal for children and first-time snorkellers to discover the reef.
- Observing nesting seabirds
- Snorkelling with colourful fish
- Relaxing on the sandy cay
- Paddleboarding in calm waters
- Anchorage
- Michaelmas Cay (designated moorings)
- Dining
- Picnic lunch on the cay, then yacht's chef
- DAY 05
Return to Cairns
Enjoy a final morning cruise back to Cairns, taking in the panoramic views of the coastline. Disembark with cherished memories of your Great Barrier Reef yacht charter, a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Leisurely breakfast on deck
- Last views of the Coral Sea
- Photo opportunities
- Shopping for local souvenirs in Cairns
- Anchorage
- Marlin Marina, Cairns
- Dining
- The Boathouse on the Pier
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- Whitsunday Islands Yacht Charter
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