FOCUS ON: QUEENSLAND
The gateway to the Great Barrier ReefWelcome to the tropical coastline of Australia. Located in the North East of the country is the state of Queensland, home to a vast glittering shoreline of pristine beaches, stylish cities, and the world famous Great Barrier Reef is situated just off this fabulous coast.
On a cruise around Australia, you’re likely to visit a host of vibrant ports along the coast – with Sydney in New South Wales, Melbourne in Victoria, and Brisbane, Airlie Beach, and Cairns falling within Queensland’s exotic borders. The furthest south in Queensland is the fashionable capital of Brisbane. Flanked by surf-beaches, the city itself is filled with lush parks, great restaurants, historic buildings, and a lively cultural scene. Take a tour along the Brisbane River, visit Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo, or take an excursion up to Mt. Tamborine – a volcanic plateau of national parklands and rainforests.
Further up the sunny coastline you’ll come to Airlie Beach, where the Whitsunday Archipelago is by far the biggest attraction. These islands off the coast of Queensland are true drops of perfection in the ocean. Hamilton Island is the largest, combining countless activities with spectacular beauty. Sunbathe on the bright white sands of picture perfect beaches, and allow the tranquility to wash over you. Snorkeling or diving is the best way to explore the beauty beneath the water; vibrant shoals of tropical fish will inquisitively approach, and the rainbow colours of the incredible reef will amaze. Whales, dolphins, and giant sea turtles may even grace your presence, as you discover the magic of this marine paradise.
In the north of Queensland, sandwiched between the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics rainforest, is the city of Cairns. Pulsating with energy, you’ll find world-class sporting events and festivals taking place. This is an adventurous city with an inherently outdoor lifestyle. During your visit to this port you could venture inland to the immense Daintree National Park, home to the oldest rainforest on the planet.
Alternatively, head out into the ocean to explore the Great Barrier Reef. Known as Australia’s ‘Blue Outback’, the grandeur and beauty of this spectacle draws over two million tourists to admire it each year. The eco system supports the greatest concentration of life on the planet, with thousands of species of fish, corals and molluscs, not to mention a huge variety of sharks, dolphins, turtles, and plants. A cruise is one of the best ways to see all that is on offer; weave between the countless islands of snow white sands and turquoise waters, admiring the spectacular marine life around you.
Find out more about breathtaking cruises to Australia and her surrounding nations.
A whole world of discovery awaits you with Planet Cruise, make your next holiday one to remember.
