Day 1
Take the stunning 67km (42mi) journey along the Great Barrier Reef Drive, which winds its way from Cairns to Port Douglas. Along the way, travel between forest-clad mountains and the spectacular beaches of the Coral Sea.
Along the route, stop for lunch at Osprey’s Restaurant, located within the beautiful Thala Beach Nature Reserve. This deluxe eco-retreat overlooks the coastline and offers a seasonal tropical menu showcasing fresh local flavours.
After lunch, continue north to the Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. Here, a Kuku Yalanji guide welcomes guests with a traditional smoking ceremony. Then, join the 90-minute Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk through the rainforest.
During the experience, learn traditional stories and visit sacred sites. Guests will also discover native bush foods, create ochre paint, and sample damper with bush tea.
Later, check into your luxury accommodation at Silky Oaks Lodge, overlooking the Mossman River and bordering the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park. The lodge offers a peaceful rainforest retreat, complete with natural beauty and 40 luxury treehouses.
In the evening, dine at the Treehouse Restaurant. Here, seasonal local produce is crafted into a modern Australian menu and paired with an extensive selection of Australian wines.
Day 2
Begin the day with breakfast before checking out of your accommodation. Afterwards, transfer to the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal to start your Great Barrier Reef adventure.
From here, enjoy a scenic 90-minute cruise to the Reef Magic Pontoon, located on Moore Reef in the outer Great Barrier Reef. This modern pontoon features state-of-the-art facilities designed for a five-hour reef experience.
During your time on the reef, guests can snorkel alongside a marine biologist or try a Sea Trek helmet walk beneath the water. Alternatively, beginners may enjoy a diving lesson, while certified divers can explore vibrant coral gardens and kaleidoscopic reef fish.
For those who prefer to stay dry, there are still plenty of ways to experience the reef. Take a Glass Bottom Boat tour or watch the marine life from the underwater observatory.
Midday, enjoy a buffet lunch prepared by the award-winning Ochre Restaurant, showcasing fresh local flavours.
To conclude the day, take a scenic helicopter transfer from the pontoon to Port Douglas. Upon arrival, check in at the Sheraton Grand Mirage Port Douglas Resort, a 294-room beachfront resort located along the famous Four Mile Beach.
Later in the evening, head into town for dinner at La Cucina + Bar. Here, Italian cuisine is crafted with fresh local ingredients, creating a contemporary twist on traditional favourites.
Day 3
Begin the day by greeting the sunrise with an exclusive yoga session and breakfast on Four Mile Beach. The calm ocean views provide the perfect setting to start the morning refreshed and energised.
Afterwards, travel just 20 minutes north of Port Douglas to check in for the two-hour Mossman River Drift Experience.
Wearing a wetsuit and carrying a floating river sled, follow your guide upstream through shallow sections of the river and rainforest trails. Along the way, learn about the unique ecosystem of the ancient rainforest. Then, relax and drift gently with the calm currents of the Mossman River, surrounded by the tranquillity of this centuries-old natural environment.
Later, return to Port Douglas for lunch at Hemingway’s Brewery, located at the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina. Enjoy craft beer and relaxed dining while overlooking the marina.
In the afternoon, refresh at your accommodation before preparing for an elegant gala dinner at Nautilus Restaurant.
From the heart of Port Douglas Village, follow a hidden pathway that leads to this enchanting venue nestled among lush tropical gardens. Upon arrival, enjoy canapés and cocktails beneath the stars.
The evening continues with a three-course menu featuring local seafood, barramundi, and premium meats. Each dish highlights seasonal local produce and is perfectly paired with regional wines.