Rail, Reef & Islands: Queensland's Coastal Journey

Independent/Tailor-Made / Australia

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Amazing Experience

Overview

Special Offer Details

Combine this land only vacation with an international airfare and save

This sun-soaked 11-day journey along Queensland’s east coast pairs natural wonders with laidback island charm. 

Beginning in Brisbane, you’ll head north to K’gari (Fraser Island), where rainforest meets beach and freshwater lakes shimmer beneath the canopy. A guided 4WD tour reveals the island’s remote beauty, from the mirror-like waters of Lake McKenzie to the rusted wreck of the Maheno.

From there, continue to the Whitsundays and transfer to Hamilton Island, a palm-fringed escape in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Spend your days drifting through the turquoise shallows of Whitehaven Beach, exploring underwater coral gardens, or simply watching the sky turn pink from the comfort of a waterfront café.

Next, journey north to tropical Cairns, gateway to two World Heritage treasures: the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Ride the scenic railway to the mountaintop village of Kuranda, known for its arts, markets and lush surrounds. A free day in Cairns lets you set your own pace—unwind by the lagoon or seek out adventure in the reef or rainforest.

From island sunsets to forested peaks and coral seas, this coastal escape invites you to slow down, dive in, and reconnect with Australia’s wild, open beauty.

Highlights

Queenstown – Cairns – Great Barrier Reef - Whitsundays

Journey along Australis’s stunning east coast from Brisbane to Cairns. Enjoy two spectacular rail journeys, a Great Barrier Reef adventure, Fraser Island safari, and more.

 

Tilt Train Northbound - Brisbane to Maryborough West

The Train The Tilt Train is fast becoming the most popular way to explore Queensland's coastal destinations. Reach fantastic getaways like whale watching at Hervey Bay, spectacular Fraser Island, the Great Barrier Reef, and stunning Whitsundays. Traveling along the coast is comfortable and relaxing aboard the Tilt Train. Passengers aboard the North Queensland service enjoy business seating throughout, with personal entertainment screens, laptop connections, and personal power supply, and the option of in-seat dining or Club Car offering light meals and refreshments. If you're planning a shorter journey between southeast and central Queensland, the Tilt Train can connect you with most major holiday destinations. And you have the option of business or economy seating. The Tilt Train is the perfect way to holiday hop along Australia's northeastern coast. Tilt Train services run between Brisbane and Cairns and between Brisbane and Rockhampton twice a week. The Route The Tilt Train travels along the east coast of Queensland from Brisbane to Cairns and return. Some services travel between Rockhampton and Brisbane, with set down/pick up stops at regional cities, including Maryborough West and Gladstone. Other services travel between Cairns and Brisbane, stopping at Townsville, Proserpine (Whitsundays), Mackay and other major cities and towns.
 

Arrive K’gari

On arrival at Maryborough West you will be met and transferred to the Kingfisher Bay Resort Mainland Reception to check in for your ferry transfer to K’Gari. Your ferry has two decks - one indoor and one outdoor, a fully licensed bar and snack food available for purchase. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes. On arrival you will be transferred (or you can take a scenic 5-minute walk) to the Kingfisher Bay Resort Reception to check in. The day is free to relax, explore and enjoy the facilities of the resort with idyllic white beaches, endless sunshine, World Heritage wilderness and spectacular sunsets across the bay, it’s the perfect place to stay and unwind on island time. Wake up in paradise to the sweet songs of birdlife, take in the scenery from your private deck, or stroll down to the beach for a dip with nature right on your doorstep. Here you can do as much or as little as you like.
 

Kingfisher Bay Resort Fraser Island

With idyllic white beaches, endless sunshine, World Heritage wilderness to explore, and spectacular sunsets across the bay, it’s the perfect place to stay and unwind on island time. Wake up in paradise to the sweet songs of birdlife, take in the scenery from your private deck, or stroll down to the beach for a dip with nature right on your doorstep. Here you can do as much or as little as you like.

Kingfisher Bay Resort Fraser Island

On this full day of adventure seeing all of the iconic Fraser Island sights, you’ll meet like-minded travellers, visit the top natural attractions and cool off in watering holes – all from the air-conditioned comfort of a custom-designed, four-wheel-drive vehicle. Discover island highlights such as: Gorgeous Lake McKenzie. Central Station and Wanggoolba Creek, Pile Valley’s awe-inspiring Satinay and Brush Box forests, 75 Mile Beach's famous highway, the Maheno shipwreck and the coloured sands of The Pinnacles and last but not least the relaxing fresh waters of Eli Creek. The tour includes lunch and refreshments, so all you need to pack is your sunscreen, swimwear, and sense of adventure.
 

Kingfisher Bay Resort Fraser Island

With idyllic white beaches, endless sunshine, World Heritage wilderness to explore, and spectacular sunsets across the bay, it’s the perfect place to stay and unwind on island time. Wake up in paradise to the sweet songs of birdlife, take in the scenery from your private deck, or stroll down to the beach for a dip with nature right on your doorstep. Here you can do as much or as little as you like.

Kingfisher Bay Resort Fraser Island

Spirit of Queensland Northbound Maryborough West to Airlie Beach

Spirit of Queensland The new Spirit of Queensland train combines modern seating and entertainment options with the romance of long distance rail travel. Contemporary, comfortable and designed for relaxation, the newest addition to the Queensland Rail Travel fleet offers new features that will redefine the modern rail travel experience. Route The Spirit of Queensland Train is perfect for getaways up and down the Queensland coastline. Take the Spirit of Queensland to enjoy a visit to the Whitsunday Islands or Great Barrier Reef, or a whale watching holiday in Hervey Bay. Relax in your all leather Premium Economy seat or the revolutionary Railbed seat that converts to a lie flat bed, enjoy state of the art entertainment or simply watch the scenery whiz by.
 

Depart K’gari

You will depart K’gari today for your transfer back to the mainland. Enjoy the relaxing 50 minute journey back to River Heads and your ongoing travel arrangements.

Spend the whole day experiencing all the wonders of the magnificent Whitehaven Beach area. Indulge in the ultimate experience of Whitehaven Beach; From the Northern end exploring the Spectacular Hill Inlet, to the Southern -- swimming, hiking, sunbathing, soaking up the sun. No other day cruise offered allows you so much time to explore the wonders of Whitehaven Beach. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the full length of Whitehaven Beach and across Hill Inlet to the landing point. From here a guided walk following the path and history of the Whitsunday traditional owners, the Ngaro people, will lead you to the lookout and that picture postcard view! There are informative displays along the way that will provide an insight into the history, flora and stories of this picturesque area. A leisurely pace ensures all fitness levels are catered for, and guests take the time to enjoy this superb spiritual place. Perhaps enjoy optional walks to Whitehaven Beach Lookout, Chance Bay, and Solway Passage. Alternatively, if you're after a more relaxed afternoon; wander back to Whitehaven Beach to your own secluded stretch where you can laze on the beach or cool off in the azure waters.

To properly experience the wonders of the world's most celebrated underwater playground you need to spend a day here. On the outer edge of Hardy Reef, Reefworld is the best way to see everything the Great Barrier Reef has to offer. Come face to face with thousands of different species of marine life and stunning corals. Explore easy to follow snorkelling coral trails; SCUBA dive the most celebrated coral reef in the world; or just relax and enjoy the amazing view from the deck. Enjoy a buffet lunch as well as morning and afternoon coffee/tea.

Spirit of Queensland Northbound - Airlie Beach to Cairns

Spirit of Queensland The new Spirit of Queensland train combines modern seating and entertainment options with the romance of long distance rail travel. Contemporary, comfortable and designed for relaxation, the newest addition to the Queensland Rail Travel fleet offers new features that will redefine the modern rail travel experience.   Route The Spirit of Queensland Train is perfect for getaways up and down the Queensland coastline. Take the Spirit of Queensland to enjoy a visit to the Whitsunday Islands or Great Barrier Reef, or a whale watching holiday in Hervey Bay. Relax in your all leather Premium Economy seat or the revolutionary Railbed seat that converts to a lie flat bed, enjoy state of the art entertainment or simply watch the scenery whiz by.
 

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3 Night Stay

After a transfer from your accommodation to Freshwater Station for check-in, it's time to board the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail, enjoying the very special Gold Class Service including a dedicated host, lounge style seating, quality refreshments plus a gift pack and souvenir trip guide. An amazing journey awaits you as you travel one of the world's most scenic rail routes, through hand-hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges. Once you arrive at beautiful Kuranda Station, you have ample time to explore the many and varied shops, as well as the Heritage Markets which operate daily. At the specified time, your shuttle coach will transfer you to Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens and tropical rainforest, where a number of unique attractions await you. Board the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a different look at the rainforest. Also included in your tour is the Koala and Wildlife Park. The shuttle bus will then take you back to Kuranda. Board the Skyrail to experience a journey that takes you over the rainforest canopy with stops along the way allowing you to take a stroll through the rainforest or Interpretive Centre.

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