ITINERARY

Day 1 – (D)

Today you make your own way to Cairns Qantas Domestic Airport. Your adventure begins when you board your aircraft to fly over the Great Barrier Reef to Horn Island. Transfer by ferry to Thursday Island, commercial and administration hub of the Torres Strait Islands. Free time to explore the island (you may wish to take a guided bus tour at your own expense and arrangements). After lunch (own expense) transfer by ferry to the northern-most settlements of mainland Australia to be met by your Guide. We overnight at our beachfront campsite on the tropical shores of Torres Strait.

Day 2 – (BLD)

This morning enjoy a fascinating visit to the beautiful “Lockerbie Scrub”, an isolated pocket of monsoon rainforest before an emotional walk to the very top of Australia – CAPE YORK. After a fitting celebration we head south across the mighty Jardine River and travel through Cape York’s wilderness. This afternoon you’ll be enchanted by the magic of Twin Falls – swimming here, in pristine spring-fed pools landscaped by nature, will be a life long memory. We camp here tonight in the company of millions of stars.

Day 3 – (BL)

4WD adventure and fun on Cape York’s rugged Telegraph Track this morning. Cross rivers and creeks, see prehistoric cycads, giant termite mounds and carnivorous plants. This afternoon we cross the Wenlock River at historic Moreton Telegraph Office before travelling on to our overnight camp at the Archer River. Dinner is at your own expense this evening.

Day 4 – (BLD)

South to Coen then on to the historic telegraph station of Musgrave. Travel on into Lakefield National Park, Queensland’s second largest at 537,000 hectares (1.25 million acres) and a great wildlife spotting opportunity. Enjoy the peace of this remote outback location. In the evening relax around the campfire. We camp in the National Park tonight.

Day 5 – (B)

Rise to the morning chorus of the many bird species in Lakefield. We travel on to “Quinkan Country” near Laura, an outback landscape of termite mounds and cattle stations. Here we climb (suitable footwear and reasonable fitness required) the sandstone escarpment at Split Rock to view ancient Aboriginal rock art, dated in excess of 13,000 years old, depicting traditional activities and culture. Now we head south and east via the Palmer River, site of one of Australia’s greatest gold rushes. Lunch (own expense) along the way. Now over the Great Dividing Range to the coastal plain and Port Douglas or Cairns completing your fascinating adventure of discovery and fun in Australia’s far north.

2013 Departure Dates

• June 4, 18
• July 2, 16, 30
• August 13, 27
• September 10, 24

TOUR INCLUDES:

• Small Groups – Maximum 13 guests
• Air-conditioned 4WD vehicle
• Professional Qualified Guide
• Meals as coded
• Pyramid-style safari tent / self-inflating mattress

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Thursday Island
• Lockerbie Scrub
• Cape York
• Twin Falls
• Wenlock River, Moreton Telegraph Office
• Musgrave, Coen, Archer River
• Guided Tour of “Quinkan” Aboriginal Rock Art
• One-way air travel from Cairns to Horn Island
• Ferry transfer from Thursday Island to Seisia (mainland)
• All National Park, Site and Ferry Fees

EXTRAS:

• All drinks (except tea and coffee)
• Lunch on Days 1 and 5
• Dinner on Day 3
• Guided Tour of Thursday Island (available at own arrangements)
• Sleeping Bag (limited stock available for hire – AUD 25.00 per person)
• Pillow
• Transfers to Cairns Airport
• Items of a personal nature

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DAY 1  MONDAY  (LD) Cairns, Daintree Rainforest, Cooktown.

Early morning departure as we travel via the beautiful coastal road until we cross the Daintree River and enter the majestic expanse of the World Heritage listed Daintree/Cape Tribulation Rainforest. Over the jungle shrouded slopes of the controversial Bloomfield track to Cooktown. Perhaps a chance to shop for souvenirs in original colonial era shops. Overnight accommodation: Seaview Motel – (ensuite facilities)

DAY 2  TUESDAY (BLD) Lakefield National Park, Musgrave.

Assured of a unique place in the rich fabric of Australian history, Cooktown provides a visit of interest and excitement. Visit Cook’s landing place, Grassy Hill Lookout and the century old cemetery. Mid morning we travel via Battle Camp Ranges and Old Laura Station to Lakefield National Park. An opportunity to safely view crocodiles in their natural habitat. Experience living outback history as we approach Musgrave pioneer telegraph station, which is over 100 years old. Overnight accommodation: Musgrave – (share facilities)

DAY 3 WEDNESDAY (BLD) Coen, Archer River, Moreton Station.

Via historic Coen we travel north to cross the wide sandy Archer River and after lunch travel via Piccaninny Plains and Batavia Downs Stations to arrive at Moreton a former Telegraph Station that carried the morse code signal linking Brisbane to Thursday Island. Time for a guided nature walk on established trails along this lightly forested waterway. Overnight accommodation 2 nights: Cabin Tent – shared facilities (twin share fully screened tents with beds and linen)

DAY 4 THURSDAY (BLD) Weipa, Moreton Station.

Through huge cattle runs travel west to arrive at bauxite-mining town of Weipa on the Gulf of Carpentaria. A veritable “Oasis in the wilderness” and providing further contrast to your experience of this last frontier. Perhaps a Weipa Mine Tour (own cost). Overnight Moreton.

DAY 5 FRIDAY (BLD) Fruitbat Falls, Jardine River, Punsand Bay.

Civilisation far behind and we are really in four wheel drive country as we traverse streams, rocky crossings and the ever changing wilderness landscape of zamias and eucalyptus forests to reach today’s lunch destination. Then onto picturesque Fruitbat Falls on the Elliot River. Time to swim and explore or photograph the enchanting rock pools, and waterfall of this unique spot. This afternoon we cross the Jardine River, followed by a short visit to Bamaga Aboriginal and Islander settlement. 3 night’s accommodation: Punsand Bay Private Reserve. Permanent Cabin Tent (Ensuite facilities)

DAY 6 SATURDAY (BLD) Thursday Island, Horn Island.

Early morning ferry through the islands of the Torres Strait to legendary “T.I.” once homeport of the romantic pearl diver fleet, now “Capital” of the scattered islander communities between Australia and New Guinea. Time for sightseeing, souvenir shopping. Thursday and Horn Island tours & lunch IS INCLUDED.

DAY 7 SUNDAY (BLD) Cape York, Somerset.

An unforgettable day of achievement and interest. We stand at the very tip of our continent. Visit the ruins of Somerset, (road conditions permitting) with pristine beaches and rocky headlands.

DAY 8  MONDAY (BL) Punsand Bay, Bamaga, Cairns.

A morning transfer to Bamaga Airport for your return flight to Cairns. A hotel transfer on arrival in Cairns completes your holiday.

2013 DEPARTURE DATES

• May 13, 27
• June 10, 24
• July 08, 22
• August 5, 19
• September 02, 16, 30
• October 14

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cairns to Cape York Scenic Flight
• Horn Island (overnight)
• Thursday Island
• Torres Strait
• Punsand Bay (2 nights)
• Cape York – Most Northern Tip of Australia
• Moreton Station
• Weipa
• Musgrave
• Lakefield National Park
• Cooktown
• The Bloomfield Track
• Daintree National Park
• Cape Tribulation

TOUR INCLUDES

• 1 Driver/Guide plus 1 Hostess/Cook
• Return Cairns Accommodation Transfers
• Meals as indicated
• Guided tours & activities
• Air-conditioned 16-21 seat 4WD vehicle
• 3 nights motel style accommodation
• 4 nights cabin tent accommodation
• Cairns to Cape York (Horn Island) airfare
• Horn Island Bus Tour
• Horn Island Museum
• Thursday Island Ferry
• Thursday Island Bus Tour

EXTRAS

• Weipa Mine Tour $35 per person

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

CAIRNS ACCOMMODATION:

Before & After tour $42.50 per person per night includes free Airport pick up, Breakfast & Luggage storage

ITINERARY

DAY 1 CAIRNS – COOKTOWN (LD)

After picking you up at your Cairns CBD accommodation or our to see more videos selected Caravan Parks, your adventure begins. Traveling north along the scenic Captain Cook Highway, through the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef. Then making your way along the jungle shrouded Bloomfield Track, stopping off at the unique Lion’s Den Hotel, and the mysterious Black Mountain, before arriving at your camp site in Cooktown.

DAY 2 COOKTOWN – LAKEFIELD NATIONAL PARK (BLD)

This morning the tour explores the old gold port of Cooktown. Visit the Cooktown Museum (optional extra), Captain Cooks Landing, and Grassy Hill Lookout. Heading west into the outback, you will stop at the Old Laura Homestead before making your way over the Battle Camp Range to your overnight camp in Lakefield National Park (road
conditions permitted).

DAY 3 LAKEFIELD NATIONAL PARK – ARCHER RIVER (BLD)

Lakefield National Park, an amalgamation of 3 huge cattle stations now a haven for the many birds and animals of this area. Lagoons, billabongs and wide river lakes are home to both fresh and saltwater crocodiles. Stopping off at the historic Musgrave Telegraph Station and the frontier gold town of Coen. The tour camps tonight at the picturesque Archer River.

DAY 4 ARCHER RIVER – IRON RANGE NATIONAL PARK (BLD)

This morning the tour will visit the old Wenlock Gold Fields, an abandoned mining town, showing relics of Cape York’s history. After morning tea you will make your way to the East Coast and the Iron Range National Park (The largest remaining area of lowland rainforest in Australia) to find the Eclectus Parrot, the rare Palm Cockatoo cuscus, and green python. Overnight camp in Iron Range National Park (weather and road conditions permitting).

DAY 5 IRON RANGE – CHILI BEACH (BLD)

Today the tour will explore at your leisure, Iron Range National Park, Chili Beach, and Portland Roads community, which once serviced the Gold Fields and WW II airfield (weather and road conditions permitted).

DAY 6 IRON RANGE – WEIPA (BLD)

After an early morning start you will make your way back to the main road. The tour will cross the picturesque Pascoe River, before making its way to the bauxite-mining town of Weipa. Our modern, wellequipped campsite is located close to the beach, enjoying splendid sunsets over the sea.

DAY 7 WEIPA – BRAMWELL STATION (BD)

This morning you may wish to take an informative tour of the Weipa mining operation (own expense) or just relax by the pool. After lunch you will head for your overnight camp at a “True Blue Aussie” cattlestation, Bramwell Station.

DAY 8 BRAMWELL STATION – TWIN FALLS (BLD)

This morning the tour will travel north stopping off at Fruitbat Falls, before arriving at “Twin Falls”,your camp for the night. Relax, swim and enjoy this unique area with its enchanting water falls and rock pools.

DAY 9 TWIN FALLS – CAPE YORK – SEISIA (BLD)

After exploring this spectacular region it is time for lunch, one last swim then northwards across the Jardine River ferry, through Bamaga and finally on to Seisia, Cape York, your base camp for the next 2 nights overlooking the Torres Straits.

DAY 10 CAPE YORK – SOMERSET (BLD)

An unforgettable day! Stand at the very top of mainland Australia, you will then visit Somerset (road conditions permitted), once the home of the legendary Jardine family and government outpost established in 1864. Today is lunch on the palm fringed Anchorage Beach, which overlooks the Albany Passage. A walk on the beach will complete your
day before returning to base.

DAY 11 CARGO BOAT to CAIRNS (BLD)

Today you’ll board the cargo vessel M.V. Trinity Bay for your sea voyage back to Cairns. Having watched her disgorge her cargo of essential supplies at the Seisia wharf you’ll board and cruise your way out to the splendor of the Great Barrier Reef. Sit back and enjoy the company of your fellow passengers and crew whilst taking in the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef and coastline.

DAY 12 CARGO BOAT to CAIRNS (BLD)

Sit back and enjoy the company of your fellow passengers and crew whilst taking in the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef and coastline.

DAY 13 CARGO BOAT to CAIRNS (B)

Arriving at Trinity Wharf (anytime between 9.00am and 5.00pm depending on cargo logistics) in the Cairns CBD you’ll disembark and bid farewell to what we are sure will have been the trip of a lifetime. Please note you will need to pay for your own transport from Trinity Wharf in the Cairns CBD back to your accommodation after the boat docks. A taxi will cost approximately $20 and take less than 10 minutes from Trinity Wharf to most of Cairns accommodation
properties.

DEPARTURES IN 2013

• May 24
• June 7, 21
• July 5, 19
• August 2, 16, 30
• September 13, 27

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Daintree National Park
• Cape Tribulation
• Bloomfield Track
• Lions Den Hotel
• Black Mountain
• Cooktown
• Old Laura Homestead
• Lakefield National Park
• Old Musgrave Telegraph Station
• Coen
• Archer River
• Wenlock Gold Fields
• Iron Range National Park
• Chili Beach
• Portland Roads
• Pascoe River
• Weipa
• Bramwell Cattle Station
• The Old Telegraph Track
• Fruit Bat Falls
• Twin Falls
• Jardine River Ferry
• Bamaga
• Seisia
• Cape York – Most Northern Tip of Australia
• Somerset
• Lockerbie Scrub
• M.V. TRINITY BAY Cargo boat from Cape York to Cairns

TOUR INCLUDES:

• 1 Driver/Guide plus 1 Hostess/Cook
• Meals as indicated
• Guided tours & activities
• Air-conditioned 24 seat 4WD vehicle
• 2 nights boat accommodation
• 10 nights camping
• Tent & foam mattress
• Cape York to Cairns boat costs
• Pick up at your Cairns CBD Accommodation or our selected Caravan Parks

EXTRAS:

• After tour transfer from Trinity Wharf

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:

• Sleeping Bag $15 per trip
• Pillow $5 per trip
• Sheet $5 per trip
• Stretcher Bed $60 per trip
• Weipa Mine Tour $30 per person
• Cairns accommodation before & after your tour at $42.50 per person per night includes free Airport pick up, Breakfast & Luggage storage

ITINERARY

DAY 1 SATURDAY – CAIRNS, CAPE TRIBULATION, COOKTOWN AREA (LD)

Your tour starts with an early morning pick up from your Hotel/Motel accommodation. We travel through the pristine Daintree Rainforests and over the soaring verdant heights of the Bloomfield Track to Cooktown.  A step back in time as we explore this historic port.

DAY 2 SUNDAY – LAKEFIELD NATIONAL PARK (BD)

Morning to explore with lunch at own costs today. We then travel via the rugged Battlecamp Range, pioneer cattle stations and the old coach road to arrive at the massive wildlife haven, Lakefield National Park.

DAY 3 MONDAY – MUSGRAVE, COEN, ARCHER RIVER (BLD)

Historic interludes as we visit the last Telegraph Station, Musgrave, and the once vibrant gold rush town of Coen, before reaching our overnight stop at the Archer River.

DAY 4 TUESDAY – WEIPA (BD)

North by west today, through Mungkan Kaanju National Park and across Piccaninny Plains and boundless savannah to Weipa, on the Gulf of Carpentaria.  A veritable “Oasis in the wilderness” and providing further contrast to your experience of this last frontier. (Lunch own cost)

DAY 5 WEDNESDAY – WENLOCK RIVER, MORETON STATION (BLD)

Morning Weipa Mine Tour (optional – own cost).

With the Gulf of Carpentaria behind us, we pass through huge cattle runs to arrive at the fast flowing Wenlock River.   Set up for our overnight camp at Moreton Telegraph Station.

DAY 6 THURSDAY – TELEGRAPH ROAD, TWIN FALLS (BLD)

A really challenging route today as we ford fast flowing streams and traverse rugged 4WD roads to overnight at the ideallic Twin Falls.  Basic facilities.

DAY 7 FRIDAY – JARDINE RIVER, LOYALTY BEACH (BLD)

Across the free flowing Jardine River by cable ferry, a brief refuelling stop at Bamaga and travel via Lockerbie to our base camp at Loyalty Beach Campground.

DAY 8 SATURDAY – THURSDAY ISLAND, HORN ISLAND (BLD)

Today’s highlight is a cruise transfer through the island dotted Straights. A conducted bus tour of Thursday Island and Horn Island with Lunch IS INCLUDED and is most enjoyable and informative.  Afternoon return ferry transfer to Loyalty Beach.

DAY 9 SUNDAY – CAPE YORK (BLD)

An unforgettable day of achievement and interest. We stand at the very tip of our continent.  Visit the ruins of Somerset, (road conditions permitting) with pristine beaches and rocky headlands.

DAY 10 MONDAY – SEISIA. COMMENCE SEA-LEG (BLD)

“Barge Day”. The focus of all attention today is Seisia wharf, as the cargo ships from Cairns disgorge their cargo of fuel, building materials, indeed everything needed by the island and local communities.  At 80 meters and over 3000 tonnes the Trinity Bay is the largest cargo vessel servicing the straights and the only one to carry passengers.

DAY 11  TUESDAY – GREAT BARRIER REEF MARINE PARK (BLD)

Total relaxation as you enjoy the company of the crew and new ship board companions.

DAY 12 WEDNESDAY – DISEMBARK CAIRNS (B)

On arrival at Trinity Wharf your tour concludes with transfers to your Cairns Accommodation.

DEPARTURES IN 2013

• May 18
• June 01

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Daintree National Park
• Cape Tribulation
• Bloomfield Track
• Lions Den Hotel
• Black Mountain
• Cooktown
• Old Laura Homestead
• Lakefield National Park
• Old Musgrave Telegraph Station
• Coen
• Archer River
• Weipa
• Wenlock River
• Moreton Telegraph Station
• The Old Telegraph Track
• Twin Falls
• Jardine River Ferry
• Lockerbie Scrub
• Punsand Bay Safari Lodge
• Thursday Island
• Cape York – Most Northern Tip of Australia
• Somerset
• M.V. TRINITY BAY Cargo boat from Cape York to Cairns

TOUR INCLUDES:

• 1 Driver/Guide plus 1 Hostess/Cook
• Meals as indicated
• Guided tours & activities
• Air-conditioned 16-20 seat 4WD vehicle
• 9 nights camping
• 2 nights boat accommodation
• Tent & high density foam mattress
• Cape York to Cairns boat costs
• Thursday Island Ferry
• Return Cairns Accommodation Transfers

EXTRAS:

• Drinks

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:

• Sleeping Bag $20 per trip
• Pillow $6 per trip
• Stretcher Bed $35 per tour
• Weipa Mine Tour $35 per person
• Thursday Island Bus Tour $35 per person
• Sole use tent $80 per trip
• Cairns accommodation before & after your tour at $42.50 per person per night includes free Airport pick up, Breakfast & Luggage storage

ITINERARY

DAY 1 CARGO BOAT to CAPE YORK (D)

After lunch join other travelers for your trip up the coast of Australia on the M.V. Trinity Bay Cargo Boat. At 80 metres and over 3000 tonnes the M.V. Trinity Bay is the largest cargo vessel servicing the Torres Strait communities and the only one that carries passengers. Please note you will need to pay for your own transport to Trinity Wharf in the Cairns CBD from your accommodation before the boat departs. A taxi will cost approximately $20 and take less than 10 minutes to Trinity Wharf from most of Cairns accommodation properties.

DAY 2 CARGO BOAT to CAPE YORK (BLD)

Total relaxation as you enjoy the company of the crew and new ship board companions.

DAY 3 HORN ISLAND AND THURSDAY ISLAND (BLD)

Sunday morning is spent at Horn Island. Here passengers are given the opportunity to learn about an often forgotten part of history – the role of Horn Island and the Torres Strait in the Second World War. A ,local tour is available with an expert guide, who is the curator/owner of the local museum. Some of the sites visited include two World War II plane relics, slit trenches, taxi ways, a 3.7 inch gun site, an underground command post, and the Torres Strait Heritage Museum. As well as the historic aspect, the tour also takes in scenic sites of Horn Island. Only passengers taking part in the tour are allowed to
disembark at Horn Island. Sunday afternoon finds us at Thursday Island (TI). TI was settled in 1877 when it was decided to re-locate the government administration point from Somerset to a more suitable spot. The island was chosen for it’s closeness to the main shipping channel and it’s well sheltered port. The hunt for pearl-shell, beche-de-mer and trochus attracted many people from around the world to these shores and a number of
whom decided to stay and adopt the island as their home.

Arrangements can be made for a personalised and informative bus tour of the Island by a local guide who will show you why TI is one of the most culturally and historically interesting places in Australia. The tour takes in spectacular views and visits the Torres Strait Museum (not always accessible on Sundays), Green Hill Fort (circa 1891), Quetta Memorial Cathedral and the Japanese Pearl Divers Memorial at the local cemetery. Both of the above optional tours can be organised when you are on the cargo boat.

DAY 4 SEISIA (BD)

On Monday the vessel travels back to the mainland of Australia to the jetty at Seisia, one of the communities in the Bamaga area. After viewing the cargo being unloaded, you disembark the ship at Seisia, where you will be met by your tour representative, who will take you your permanent camp site in Seisia. Seisia is ideally located for your next few days, being in walking distance from the Seisia Wharf, a famous fishing spot. Having familiarized your selves with the camp site, the rest of the day is yours.

DAY 5 CAPE YORK (BLD)

An unforgettable day! Stand at the very top of mainland Australia. We then visit Somerset (road conditions permitted), once the home of the legendary Jardine family and government outpost established in 1864. We have lunch on the palm fringed Anchorage Beach, which overlooks the Albany Passage. A walk on the beach will complete your day before returning to base.

DAY 6 CAPE YORK – FRUIT BAT FALLS – BRAMWELL STATION (BLD)

Southward bound, your tour vehicle will cross the mighty Jardine River, stopping at Fruit Bat Falls for lunch. Relax, swim and enjoy this unique area with its enchanting waterfall. Traveling along part of the Old Telegraph Track, before you make your way to a permanent campsite at a “True Blue Aussie” cattle station, Bramwell Station.

DAY 7 BRAMWELL – WEIPA (BD)

A southerly run through the wilderness with all its varied landscapes to cross the Wenlock River. The tour heads for the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria and your overnight permanent camp site at Weipa, with its view over Albatross Bay. This afternoon there will be the opportunity to tour of the largest bauxite mine in the world at Weipa (own expense).

DAY 8 WEIPA – MUSGRAVE (BLD)

In the morning your tour will continue south, stopping off at the picturesque Archer River, then on to the historic frontier gold town of Coen. The afternoon finds you arriving at a permanent campsite at the Old Musgrave Telegraph Station.

DAY 9 MUSGRAVE – LAKEFIELD NATIONAL PARK – COOKTOWN (BLD)

After an early start, the tour heads east towards Princess Charlotte Bay where you will traverse the entire length of Lakefield National Park (road conditions permitted). An amalgamation of 3 huge cattle stations, now a haven for the many birds and animals native to this area. Lagoons, billabongs, and wide river lakes are home to both fresh and saltwater crocodiles. Traveling southwards, you will continue on to Old Laura Homestead and then cross the Battle Camp Range. This afternoon take time to explore the old gold port of Cooktown, visit Captain Cooks Landing and Grassy Hill Lookout. Overnight accommodation at the Seaview Motel in Cooktown – en suite facilities.

DAY 10 COOKTOWN – BLOOMFIELD TRACK – CAPE TRIBULATION – CAIRNS (BL)

The final exciting day has, unfortunately, arrived, but before returning to Cairns, the tour makes its way south passing the mysterious Black Mountain and the historic Lions Den Hotel. Traversing the jungle shrouded Bloomfield Track (road conditions permitted) here you will see where the ‘rainforest meets the reef’ at Cape Tribulation. Travel through the splendor of a World Heritage listed rainforest. A scenic drive along the Marlin Coast is a perfect way to complete your safari. Arriving late afternoon in Cairns, where you will be taken to your accommodation.

DEPARTURES IN 2013

• May 24
• June 7, 21
• July 5, 19
• August 2, 16, 30
• September 13, 27
• October 11, 25

HIGHLIGHTS:

• M.V. TRINITY BAY Cargo boat from Cairns to Cape York
• Horn Island
• Thursday Island
• Seisia
• Cape York – Most Northern Tip of Australia
• Somerset
• Lockerbie Scrub
• Bamaga
• Jardine River Ferry
• The Old Telegraph Track
• Fruit Bat Falls
• Bramwell Station
• Wenlock River
• Weipa
• Archer River
• Coen
• Old Musgrave Telegraph Station
• Lakefield National Park
• Old Laura Homestead
• Cooktown
• Black Mountain
• Lions Den Hotel
• Bloomfield Track
• Cape Tribulation
• Daintree National Park

TOUR INCLUDES:

• 1 Driver/Guide plus 1 Hostess/Cook
• Meals as indicated
• Guided tours & activities
• Air-conditioned 24 seat 4WD vehicle
• 5 nights camping
• 1 night Motel accommodation
• 3 nights boat accommodation
• Tent & high density foam mattress
• Cairns to Cape York boat costs
• Return Cairns Accommodation Transfers
• Pre-erected tents

EXTRAS:

• Drinks

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:

• Sleeping Bag $15 per trip
• Pillow $5 per trip
• Sheet $5 per trip
• Stretcher Bed $60 per trip
• Horn Island Bus Tour $30 per person
• Thursday Island Bus Tour $31 per person
• Cairns accommodation before & after your tour at $42.50 per person per night includes free Airport pick up, Breakfast & Luggage storage

ITINERARY

DAY 1 CAIRNS – COOKTOWN (LD)

After picking you up at your Cairns CBD accommodation or our selected Caravan Parks, your adventure begins. Traveling north along the scenic Captain Cook Highway, through the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef. Then making our way along the jungle shrouded Bloomfield Track, stopping off at the unique Lion’s Den Hotel, and the mysterious Black Mountain, before arriving in Cooktown. Whilst in Cooktown, visit Captain Cooks Landing and Grassy Hill Lookout, tonight’s overnight accommodation will be at the Seaview Motel in Cooktown which has en suite facilities.

DAY 2 COOKTOWN – LAKEFIELD NATIONAL PARK – MUSGRAVE (BLD)

Heading west into the outback, the tour will travel over the legendary Battle Camp Range to the Old Laura Homestead and Lakefield National Park (road conditions permitted). An amalgamation of 3 huge cattle stations, now a haven for the many birds and animals native to this area. Lagoons, billabongs, and wide river lakes are home to both fresh and saltwater crocodiles. The afternoon finds the tour arriving at your overnight permanent campsite at The Old Musgrave Telegraph Station.

DAY 3 MUSGRAVE – COEN – ARCHER RIVER – WEIPA (BLD)

After breakfast, the tour continues north stopping off at the historic frontier gold town of Coen and the picturesque Archer River, before making our way to the bauxite-mining town of Weipa. Your permanent campsite is located close to the beach, where you can enjoy the spectacular sunset over the Gulf of Carpentaria.

DAY 4 WEIPA – WENLOCK RIVER – BRAMWELL STATION (BD)

This morning you may wish to take an informative tour of the Weipa mining operation (own expense) or just relax by the pool. After lunch, the tour will head for an overnight permanent camp site at a “True Blue Aussie” cattle station, Bramwell Station.

DAY 5 BRAMWELL – FRUIT BAT FALLS – CAPE YORK (BLD)

After an early start, you will head north traveling along part of the Old Telegraph Track to arrive at Fruit Bat Falls for lunch. Relax, swim, and enjoy this unique area with its enchanting waterfall. Then northwards across the Jardine River, through Bamaga and arrive at Cape York!

The tour will be staying at Seisia at a permanent pre-erected base camp. Seisia is ideally located for your next few days, being in walking distance from the Seisia Wharf, the departure point for the ferry to Thursday Island and a famous fishing spot.

DAY 6 CAPE YORK – SOMERSET (BLD)

An unforgettable day! Stand at the very top of mainland Australia. The group will then visit Somerset (road conditions permitted), once the home of the legendary Jardine family and lunch on palm fringed Anchorage Beach which overlooks the Albany Passage. A walk on the beach completes your day before returning to base.

DAY 7 CARGO BOAT to CAIRNS (BLD)

Today you’ll board the cargo vessel M.V. Trinity Bay for your sea voyage back to Cairns. Having watched her disgorge her cargo of essential supplies at the Seisia wharf you’ll board and cruise your way out to the splendor of the Great Barrier Reef. Sit back and enjoy the company of your fellow passengers and crew whilst taking in the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef and coastline.

DAY 8 CARGO BOAT to CAIRNS (BLD)

Sit back and enjoy the company of your fellow passengers and crew whilst taking in the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef and coastline.

DAY 9 CARGO BOAT to CAIRNS (B)

Arriving at Trinity Wharf (anytime between 9.00am and 5.00pm depending on cargo logistics) in the Cairns CBD you’ll disembark and bid farewell to what we are sure will have been the trip of a lifetime. Please note you will need to pay for your own transport from Trinity Wharf in the Cairns CBD back to your accommodation after the boat docks. A taxi will cost approximately $20 and take less than 10 minutes from Trinity Wharf to most of Cairns accommodation properties.

DEPARTURES IN 2013

• May 21
• June 4, 18
• July 2, 16,30
• August 13,27
• September 10, 24
• October 8, 22

TOUR INCLUDES:

• 1 Driver/Guide plus 1 Hostess/Cook
• Meals as indicated
• Guided tours & activities
• Air-conditioned 24 seat 4WD vehicle
• 2 nights boat accommodation
• 1 night motel accommodation
• 5 nights camping
• Tent & foam mattress
• Cape York to Cairns boat costs
• Pick up at your Cairns CBD Accommodation or our selected Caravan Parks Pre-erected tents

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Daintree National Park
• Cape Tribulation
• Bloomfield Track
• Lions Den Hotel
• Black Mountain
• Cooktown
• Old Laura Homestead
• Lakefield National Park
• Old Musgrave Telegraph Station
• Coen
• Archer River
• Weipa
• Wenlock River
• Bramwell Cattle Station
• The Old Telegraph Track
• Fruit Bat Falls

EXTRAS:

• After tour transfer from Trinity Wharf

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:

• Sleeping Bag $15 per trip
• Pillow $5 per trip
• Sheet $5 per trip
• Stretcher Bed $60 per trip
• Weipa Mine Tour $30 per person
• Cairns accommodation before & after your tour at $42.50 per person per night includes free Airport pick up, Breakfast & Luggage storage

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