Description:
Adjusting quickly to an Aussie lifestyle, we wake up with a refreshing dip in the ocean and a morning surf session. After learning to surf, we hop in our four-wheel drives and head up the beach to Fraser Island and Great Sandy National Park. The world’s largest sand island offers countless opportunities for adventure, and we explore the historic Maheno wreck, old growth rainforests, meandering creeks and crystal clear freshwater lakes. At night we camp among the dunes, listening to the rhythm of the Pacific and marveling at the Southern Cross in the star-filled sky.
Hike through the mystical Olgas and learn why Ayers Rock is sacred to the Aborigines. Explore beautiful gorges and dramatic canyons on an overnight bush trip to the seldom seen areas of Ormiston Gorge and Glen Helen. Adventure abounds at every new site where we see Aboriginal rock paintings, discover a hidden palm fringed oasis, walk through mesmerizing canyons and swim at ancient watering holes.
A short flight to Cairns brings us back to the Queensland coast. Here an abundance of rain brings life to the forest and energy to the rivers. Ready for exhilarating whitewater? A short hike through the rainforest leads us to the Russell River and the thrill of taking on miles of adrenaline pumping rapids in two-man sport rafts.
Then we hike through the oldest living rainforest on earth in Daintree National Park on our way up to Cape Tribulation.
Time to go down under, literally! Live-aboard diving is the only true way to explore and gain full access to the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, the most extensive reef system in the world and the only living organism visible from the moon. A specially equipped dive boat is our home for our diving adventures. Participate in ongoing field studies by tracking and snorkeling with friendly and inquisitive Minke whales. With 100-foot plus visibility, the Ribbon Reefs are great for pleasure dives with opportunities to spot dog-tooth tunas, loggerhead turtles, moray eels, giant Napoleon wrasse and manta rays.
We wrap up an incredible week in Tropical Queensland with a party at sea and Quiz Night. Our live-aboard adventure ends on Lizard Island in the Coral Sea. On our short flight back to the mainland, you reflect on your voyage and marvel at how much you and your friends accomplished in such a short time
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