7 Day Brisbane to Cairns Tour with Whitsundays & Great Barrier Reef

Days
7
DEPARTS
17:00
RETURNS
10:00
From
$4,175 -5,725

Highlights

  • Brisbane Evening Welcome – Start in Queensland’s capital with a chill-out tour and group dinner.
  • Flight to Airlie Beach – Head north to the Whitsunday Coast, where the beach meets the palm trees.
  • Whitsunday Islands Day Cruise – Cruise through turquoise waters, visit Whitehaven Beach, snorkel coral reefs and walk to lookouts.
  • Mission Beach Chill – Slow down in this rainforest-fringed coastal village.
  • Atherton Tablelands Adventure – Explore volcanic lakes, waterfalls and ancient rainforest habitats.
  • Great Barrier Reef Full Day – Snorkel or glass bottom boat to see the reef’s marine life.
  • Handpicked Boutique Accommodation & Relaxed Schedule – Chosen stays and a pace for comfort and connection.

OPERATED BY
Autopia Tours (Via Travel)
SEASON
01 Apr 2025 – 31 Mar 2027
PRODUCT CODE
BC7-B (twin share room)
BC7-S (private double)
BC7-P (private single)

OPERATES
MONTUEWEDTHUFRISATSUN
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Tour Description​

Travel through Queensland’s best bits on this 7-day small group adventure. Cruise the Whitsunday Islands, swim in volcanic crater lakes, relax on tropical beaches and experience the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. With a mix of guided activities and free time, boutique accommodation, and a relaxed pace, this itinerary is perfect for those who want to see the icons of Australia without the big groups.

Arrive in Brisbane, where river views, subtropical weather and laid-back vibes will make you feel welcome. Meet your guide and fellow travellers at 5 pm in the hotel lobby for a quick welcome meeting, then head out for a city orientation. End the evening with a shared dinner at a local favourite.

Included Activities:

  • Welcome meeting and evening city walk
  • Optional dinner with the group

Meals: None
Driving Distance: None
Walking Distance: Short stroll
Accommodation: The Point Hotel Brisbane or similar 

This morning we fly to the Whitsunday Coast. Arriving in Airlie Beach, you’ll find a mix of beach town and island getaway. The afternoon is free to do as you please — wander the foreshore, swim at the lagoon or relax with a drink by the water.

Included Activities:

  • Domestic flight to the Whitsundays
  • Free time to explore Airlie Beach

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 40 km
Flight: Brisbane to Proserpine – approx. 1 hr 50 min (990 km)
Accommodation: Mantra Club Croc or similar 

Sail on a full-day island cruise to explore the Whitsundays’ stunning scenery. Visit Whitehaven Beach, walk to Hill Inlet for breathtaking views and snorkel coral reefs teeming with marine life. Back in Airlie Beach, spend the evening trying out the local dining scene or simply unwinding after a day on the water.

Included Activities:

  • Whitsundays full day cruise with snorkelling, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet walk

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Distance: Boat journey – approx. 8 hours (46 km)
Walking Distance: Easy guided walks (approx. 2 km total)
Accommodation: Mantra Club Croc or similar 

Today we head north along the Bruce Highway, passing through cane fields and tropical landscapes to Mission Beach. The afternoon is free to relax — take a walk on the beach, enjoy the pool or keep an eye out for wallabies and cassowaries in the wild.

Included Activities:

  • along the Bruce Highway

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 505 km (longest day on the road)
Walking Distance: Short, easy walks and lookout points
Accommodation: Mission Beach Resort or similar

Travel inland to the cool, green highlands of the Atherton Tablelands. Swim in a rainforest waterfall, visit Lake Eacham and see the giant Curtain Fig Tree. After a day in nature, we arrive in Cairns — a tropical city with a lively waterfront and warm evening air.

Included Activities:

  • Atherton Tablelands tour with waterfall swim, crater lake and rainforest exploration

Meals: Breakfast
Driving Distance: 220 km
Walking Distance: Easy short walks and lookout visits
Accommodation: Flynn Hotel Cairns or similar 

The best is yet to come. Take a 20 metre luxury motor catamaran to the Great Barrier Reef for a day of snorkelling over coral and tropical fish. A glass-bottom boat ride gives another perspective, and onboard commentary explains the reef’s ecosystem. Scuba diving is available for extra fun.

Included:

  • Great Barrier Reef cruise with snorkelling, glass bottom boat and buffet lunch
  • Optional scuba diving

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Distance: Boat travel – approx. 8.5 hours (30 km)
Accommodation: Flynn Hotel Cairns or similar 

After breakfast, say goodbye to your travel mates. Your tour ends here, but Cairns is the perfect spot to start more tropical adventures.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: N/A 

Autopia Tours (Via Travel) reserves the right to make changes to the itinerary due to seasonal weather patterns or park closures.

Details

Exclusions​

  • Any meals not indicated within the itinerary – plenty of opportunity to purchase food along the way or dine out with the group
  • Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point
  • Optional activities and/or tours, and hire equipment extra
  • Personal travel insurance is highly recommended

Inclusions​

  • 6 Nights’ Private or Shared Boutique Resort – all rooms with ensuite
  • 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches
  • All National Park entry fees included
  • Cape Tribulation
  • Skyrail gondola ride over rainforest to Kuranda
  • Daintree rainforest walk – Off the beaten track interpretive, sustainable walk with a local expert
  • Eco-friendly nature cruise – Spot crocodiles, birds and fish in the wild
  • Mossman Gorge entry and soft adventure walk
  • Kuku Yalanji First Nations local walk experience
  • Guided rainforest & gorge walks (~10 km total)
  • Hosted by an experienced driver-guide, with local tour commentary
  • All transport (private small-group vehicle & boat trips)
  • Cairns meeting point / Cairns drop-off point

Weather

The weather along the East Coast of Australia varies by region and season. In summer, temperatures can reach the high 30s (°C), while winter days are generally mild, especially in the north. Coastal areas can experience sudden changes, including rainfall and cooler evenings. We recommend checking the average temperatures for the time of year you’ll be travelling and packing accordingly, including sun protection, light layers, and wet weather gear. Tours will proceed in most weather conditions unless otherwise advised by the provider.

What To Bring

  • 1L Refillable water bottle – Your guide will be monitoring hydration and encouraging water
    consumption at all times during your daily adventures in order to avoid health concerns arising.
  • Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
  • Beach towel, toiletries
  • Bathers or swimwear, flip-flops shoes (beach thongs)
  • Comfortable sturdy walking shoes (closed-toe shoes)
  • All-weather clothing (In case extreme conditions day/night)
  • Overnight bag 20kg & small day pack 5kg
  • Personal medicine if required, any pre-existing medical issues, please let us know at time of booking
  • Flashlight or torch (optional)
  • Insect repellent & camera
  • Money for snack and meals
  • A sense of adventure!

Comprehensive Pickup List

17:00PM – The Point Brisbane – Hotel, 21 Lambert St, Brisbane, Queensland

Important Information

  • Mandatory Details: Passenger details are required at the time of booking, including date of birth, food allergies, title or gender for rooming configuration, a contact phone number, passport details.
  • Dietary Requirements: While we endeavour to cater to most dietary needs, passengers must inform their booking agent of any specific dietary requirements or food allergies when booking.
  • Medical Conditions: The tour operator must be notified of any known medical conditions at the time of booking. This is a physically demanding tour requiring an easy level of fitness and mobility.
  • Fitness Level: Travellers can expect some light physical activities. Travellers should be mobile enough to walk unaided. A doctor’s certificate is required for participants over 70 years old, submitted at least 30 days prior to travel.
  • Age Restrictions: Children aged 12 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. The tour is not suitable for infants or children aged 11 and under due to the nature of the tour.
  • Solo Travellers: Solo travellers who book separately in a Twin Share Accommodation (BC7-B) will be paired with another solo traveller in a twin room or with someone of the same gender.
  • Fare Type Options:
    • Shared Accommodation (BC7-B) is restricted to Adults only 18+ years and over, as travellers stay in a shared room with shared ensuite. Not suitable for children.
    • Private Double/Twin Room (BC7-S): For Adults and Children staying in a double or twin room with ensuite and must be purchased by Qty2 people staying together.
    • Private Single Room (BC7-P): Restricted to Adults only (18+ years old and over) with ensuite.
  • Mobility Considerations: This tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, including those using wheelchairs, walking aids or mobility scooters.
  • Baggage Limitations: Limited storage space is available on our vehicle. Each traveller may bring 1 x 20 kg travel bag and 1 x 5 kg day bag. Larger or multiple suitcases are by request only.
  • Itinerary Variations: Itineraries may change due to seasonal weather conditions, and occasionally sites in the parks may close for cultural or safety reasons or restricted swimming access. We prioritise safety and plan accordingly to ensure the best experience for our guests.
  • Reconfirmation of Details: All travellers are asked to reconfirm their tour details within 7 days prior to departure by calling 02 72291083 or 03 9393 1333 or via email.
  • Private Tours: Private touring groups are available upon request at charters@gltg.com.au.

Safe Travel Measures

The customer shall comply with all Government (Federal, State and Territory) entry restrictions and vaccination guidelines or testing requirements for entry into Australia and/or at the time of travel for tour and transport services. We strongly recommend vaccinated and unvaccinated guests travelling on Short Break / Extended Tours bring a couple of RAT tests in the unlikely event that a guest falls ill on tour. Guests are responsible for all COVID-related relocation expenses should they need to leave the trip midway and refunds will not be provided. All expenses will need to be claimed through travel insurance.

Room Amenities

NIGHT

CONFIGURATION

FACILITIES

INCLUDES

1-6

Hotel / Resort Accommodation Twin Share Room

Shared Ensuite Bathroom

Sleeps 2 people, solo travellers paired with another passenger, towel, linen, tv, air-conditioning

1-6

Hotel / Resort Accommodation Private Double / Twin / Single

Private Ensuite Bathroom

Towel & bed linen supplied, fridge, tv, lounge, air-conditioning, tea/coffee facilities

 

Booking​

FAQ

This tour is for people with a moderate fitness level. Most activities involve short, easy walks on formed tracks, with optional swims and guided lookouts. If you can walk a few km and manage stairs, you’ll be fine for this trip.

Yes. The domestic flight from Brisbane to the Whitsundays (Proserpine) is included in your tour package, along with all land and boat transfers listed in the itinerary.
Yes. Many of our guests are solo travellers. You can book a private single room or share a twin room with another traveller of the same gender, depending on your preference and availability.
No, all snorkelling gear for the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef cruises is provided. If you prefer, you can bring your own gear, and wetsuits can be hired onboard for an extra cost.
This tour runs year round, but April to October is the best time for warm sunny days and comfortable humidity. Summer (November to March) is lush and green with warmer water, but tropical showers are more common.
Limited storage space is available on our vehicle and on domestic flights. We request that travellers may bring a maximum of 1 x 23kg travel bag and 1x 5 kg day bag. larger or multiple suitcases are by request only.
children ages 12 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. The tour is not suitable for infants or children ages 11 and under due to the nature of the tour.