Great Barrier Reef liveaboard, Daintree rainforest, Outback and Chillagoe Caves package. Explore limestone caves, discover the oldest tropical rainforest and stay on the Reef.
Sleep on the Great Barrier Reef – Experience the magic of the reef by day and night with an unforgettable liveaboard adventure.
Explore the Daintree Rainforest – Step into the world’s oldest tropical rainforest and discover its incredible biodiversity.
Discover Chillagoe Caves – Marvel at stunning limestone formations and ancient Aboriginal rock art.
Wildlife Encounters – Spot unique Australian animals in their natural habitats, from lush rainforests to rugged outback landscapes.
Authentic Outback Experience – Visit historic towns, learn about the region’s mining history, and enjoy a classic Aussie pub lunch.
Flexible Itinerary – Enjoy the freedom to experience each adventure in any order, with optional rest days in between.
Perfect for All Ages – Whether you’re a snorkelling enthusiast or a nature lover, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Discover North Queensland Getaway
Explore the Australian Outback, Great Barrier Reef, and Rainforest
Experience the best of North Queensland with an unforgettable getaway that takes you from the rugged beauty of the Australian Outback to the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef and the lush greenery of the Daintree Rainforest.
One of the highlights of this getaway is the chance to sleep on the Great Barrier Reef, a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Spend a day exploring the world’s oldest living rainforest, the incredible Daintree Rainforest, and discover the breathtaking limestone caves of Chillagoe in the North Queensland Outback.
Enjoy the flexibility of taking this package in any order, with the option to include a day’s break between experiences to relax and explore at your own pace.
Day 1 – Outback and Chillagoe Caves
Step back in time and uncover the fascinating history and stunning landscapes of the North Queensland Outback. This region is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering plenty of opportunities to spot native Australian animals.
Highlights include:
Ancient Aboriginal rock art
Dramatic limestone formations
Historical towns and rolling hills
Learn about the region’s rich mining heritage with a visit to the historic copper smelters before enjoying a delicious Aussie pub lunch in the heart of the outback. Then, embark on a guided tour of the Chillagoe Caves before returning to Cairns.
Please note: Accommodation is not included after this tour.
Outback and Chillagoe Caves Inclusions
Courtesy pickup and return from accommodations between Cairns and Smithfield
Comfortable, air-conditioned 4WD vehicles
Visit to Mareeba Wetlands
Morning tea
Tasty Aussie lunch
Guided Chillagoe Cave tour with a National Park Ranger
Explore Chillagoe Smelters and Mt. Uncle Distillery
Outback and Chillagoe Caves Itinerary
Departure Days: Monday, Wednesday, Friday
Pickup Time: 7:00 AM from your accommodation
Return Time: 6:30 PM back to your accommodation
What to Bring
Money for afternoon tea
Hat, camera, closed-in footwear, comfortable clothing, sunscreen, and a water bottle
A reasonable fitness level is required, as steps are inside the caves.
Please note: Tours may be altered or cancelled due to wet season conditions affecting road access.
Days 2-3 – The Great Barrier Reef
Discover the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef like never before by living and sleeping on the reef! This unforgettable liveaboard experience lets you witness the reef in all its glory day and night.
Cairns Liveaboard with Reef Encounter
A unique holiday experience offering something for everyone, Reef Encounter provides comfortable accommodation, delicious meals, and unlimited snorkelling.
Enjoy a mini Great Barrier Reef cruise, where you’ll explore three spectacular outer reef locations, each teeming with vibrant marine life and coral gardens. Whether you’re a snorkelling enthusiast or simply looking to relax and soak in the beauty, this experience is truly a highlight of the North Queensland Getaway.
Transfers:
The Reef Experience transfer vessel offers daily transfers to Reef Encounter, ensuring a smooth and scenic journey.
Good to Know:
This adventure is suitable for all ages
Even those with limited swimming ability can enjoy the experience with our guided snorkelling sessions.
Explore North Queensland’s best with an adventure combining stunning landscapes, incredible wildlife, and world-class natural wonders!
Cairns Accommodation is not included on the night after this tour
Great Barrier Reef 2 day Itinerary
Day One
7:30 am Board the transfer vessel ‘Reef Experience’ at Cairns Marlin Marina for breakfast,
9:30 am Arrive onboard Reef Encounter for your ‘Welcome and Safety Talk’ before being shown to your room to settle in and relax
10:30 am Water Session: Time to snorkel for all guests before lunch
15:00 Reef Encounter moves to another spectacular outer barrier reef location
15:30 Water Session: Scuba dive or snorkel time.
18:00 Dinner in the dining saloon
19:15 Night Dive for certified divers
20:00 Dessert in the dining saloon
Second Day Snorkelling
6:00 am A wake-up call for the early morning snorkel session
6:30 am Water Session: Sunrise snorkel time. 7:30 am Breakfast is served in the dining saloon
8:00 am Room Checkout Reef Encounter moves to another spectacular outer barrier reef location
8:30 am Water Session: Snorkel Time
10:30 am Water Session: Snorkel Time
Noon Lunch in the dining saloon
13:30 Water Session: Snorkel session
14:45 Departing passengers board the transfer vessel ‘Reef Experience’ for the journey back to Cairns. Complimentary wine, cheese and biscuits will be served on the return journey
16:30 Approximate arrival time to the Cairns Marlin Marina
Next, Discover the Highlights
Tour and Inclusions Highlights
Two days and one night on the Great Barrier Reef onboard Cairns’s premier liveaboard.
It’s time to enjoy the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. •
Delicious chef-prepared meals while onboard.
Spectacular Reef Sites.
Onboard heated spa.
Overnight luxury Stateroom Accommodation all rooms have ensuite
Snorkel Equipment and Instruction. (Fins, Mask and Snorkel)
Marine Biologist Presentation onboard Reef Experience on route to Reef Encounter
Fully Air-conditioned
Bath and Beach Towels
Government Reef Levies and Taxes
Friendly professional scuba diving Instructors for guests who would like to try scuba diving Extra Cost
What to Bring
What to bring
Overnight bag – If you wish to store excess luggage, we are happy to do so in our 100 Abbott Street Cairns office.
For safety reasons, Reef Encounter has a “No Shoe” policy.
Cash or credit card for purchases of snacks from the bar/souvenirs etc
Sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, light casual clothing.
A light lo pullover or cardigan
Optional Extras
Introductory/Resort Scuba Dive
Wetsuit hire
Soft drinks, snacks etc
Underwater Camera Hire
Alcohol available onboard – NO BYO
Day 4 – Daintree Rainforest
Journey to the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest. Boasting magnificent coastal Rainforest and pristine tropical beaches. Take in one of the most scenic coastal roads in Australia. It is the perfect ending to your North Queensland Getaway.
Stop in at beautiful seaside towns along the way.
Experience the magic of Mossman Gorge and gain insight into the lives and cultures of the local indigenous people.
Take a Daintree river cruise to spot crocodiles sunning themselves on the shorelines.
Your knowledgeable tour guides will point out various wildlife along the way.
The Daintree Rainforest feels like you have entered a different world with Rainforest towering over narrow winding roads. It is an excellent opportunity to take some stunning photographs.
Cairns Accommodation is not included on the night after this tour
Daintree Rainforest Itinerary
7.00 – 7.30 am Pickup from your Cairns Accommodation.
Returns to Cairns at approximately 6.30 pm. (Itinerary is subject to change due to weather, operational or unforeseen issues)
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes
Hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Camera
Cash for optional purchases
Water Bottle
Insect Repellent
Raincoat/Umbrella
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for my North Queensland Getaway?
We recommend packing comfortable clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, swimwear, and sturdy walking shoes. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery!
Is the getaway suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! The itinerary is designed to suit all ages, with activities catering to adventure seekers and those who prefer a more relaxed experience. Kids will love exploring the rainforest and snorkelling on the reef.
Do I need prior snorkelling or diving experience for the reef adventure?
No experience is needed! Our friendly guides provide full instruction and safety briefings, making it perfect for beginners and experienced snorkellers. Equipment is also provided for your convenience.
Can I take the tours in any order?
Our flexible itinerary allows you to choose the order that best suits your schedule. You can even add rest days in between to relax and explore at your own pace.
What happens if the weather affects my planned activities?
In the case of adverse weather conditions, alternative arrangements will be made where possible. Safety is our top priority, and we’ll work to ensure you still have an enjoyable experience.
A minimum of 48 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any changes to the booking (date, names, etc) incur a $20 administration fee.
We must notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to ensure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 30 days or more prior to departure
50% cancellation fee if within 30 days prior to departure
100% cancellation fee within 14 days prior to departure
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. No refund or compensation will be issued for unused equipment, prepaid/pre-booked courses and/or Scuba dives, or guides if you cannot complete the entire tour. Please see Scuba Diving – Important Information below.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
Check-in: If you are Making your own way (no return transfers booked), please check-in and board at 7.30 am. Your transfer vessel is named Reef Experience and is located on A Finger, at Cairns Marlin Marina.
Terms and Conditions
Please note that we do not offer children's pricing. However, for families traveling with a third guest who is a small child aged 2 to 11 years, a roll-away bed can be added to your cabin, subject to availability. Infants (0 to 2 years) can be accommodated with cot hire and small meals, also subject to availability. Kindly be aware that we cannot provide both a roll-away bed and a cot in the same cabin. Each cabin has a maximum occupancy of three people.
Open-Dated Ticket: In certain cases, Open-Dated tickets may be issued. These tickets are valid indefinitely but are non-refundable. Any fare increase must be paid at the time of rebooking. Once a customer accepts an Open-Dated ticket, the cancellation policy applicable to the original booking date will remain in effect.
Schedules, vessels, dive locations, and itineraries are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances, with full consideration for your safety and enjoyment. We reserve the right to adjust tours, schedules, prices, and itineraries at any time without notice. We are not liable for any changes, cancellations, or delays, and we accept no responsibility for any loss, additional expenses, or out-of-pocket costs incurred as a result, whether caused directly or indirectly.
Neither this site nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, any loss, any damage, delays, deaths or personal injury.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase Comprehensive Travel Insurance that covers personal injury and the events, including but not limited to your cancellation for any reason and the cancellation or alteration to the scheduled itinerary for reasons involving weather or passenger, crew or vessel safety. Please read your insurance policy's wording carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. Please be aware that scuba diving and other in-water activities are not covered by all travel insurance companies. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger.
The passenger acknowledges and consents to Reef Encounter taking photographs or video recordings during the course of this activity / tour. The passenger acknowledges and consents to Reef Encounter receiving and using images of the passenger from third parties and using these images for marketing and promoting its services.
No alcohol may be consumed before in-water activities.
Please inform us of any special requirements 48 hours before your travel date, such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the ‘Booking Message’ section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team.
Avoid booking flights on the same day of travel: We strongly recommend not booking any flights on the day you come back from Reef Encounter. We cannot guarantee that the tour will return at the scheduled time (due to weather, mechanical issues, etc.), and we will not be held responsible for missed flights or additional costs incurred as a result.
Scuba Diving – Important Information
All Certified Divers must present a valid Certification Card. Failure to present a Certification Card may result in the customer being unable to participate in scuba diving. They can enjoy snorkelling activities instead. No refunds would be offered.
The minimum age for Introductory Diving is 12 years old. The minimum age for certified diving and Open Water Courses is 10 years old. All junior divers must either be accompanied by a certified parent or guardian or must dive with a dive professional at an additional charge. If the diver is under the age of 18 years, parental or guardian consent is required for that diver to undertake a dive. The parent or guardian should sign the medical declaration as a witness.
Upon arriving at our vessel and before commencing any dive activities, all passengers must complete our liability forms. All information provided must be strictly accurate. If during the tour, it becomes apparent that a form has been incorrectly completed, either by omission or false statement, we reserve the right to prevent any customer from undertaking any scuba diving or snorkelling activities while on board our vessel. Any decision made in this regard will be at the absolute discretion of the Dive Crew aboard the vessel.
The dangers and risks associated with scuba diving in an open ocean environment under variable conditions apply to our tours. We reserve the right to prevent any customer from participating in scuba diving if we determine that they are physically or medically unsuitable to do so or if it is in the best interests of our crew or other scuba divers. Our crew are trained professionals, and it is up to their sole discretion who they take diving and/or snorkelling. No refunds would apply.
Please remember you must allow 24 hours from your last dive before flying.
Medical Conditions & Medications
Queensland, Australia has some of the strictest scuba diving rules in the world but also the safest scuba diving record. We are regulated by the Queensland Government Code of Practice and comply with all rules including medical as is the law.
All passengers participating in any Scuba activities must complete a Medical Questionnaire. If you’ve answered yes to any questions or take any prescribed medication, you may need further medical clearance. This must be arranged prior to your day of departure.
Medication: DO NOT presume that by taking medication is controlling your medical conditions, and you should be fine to scuba dive, as it is the medication that can be the problem when scuba diving. Particularly prescribed medication may require a medical clearance.
Entry-level certificate divers: Medical certificates are no longer mandatory for our Open Water Course, unless:
a) has or has had any of the medical conditions mentioned in the SSI Medical Questionnaire
b) is over 45 years old
c) has a body mass index of more than 30 and a waist circumference of more than 102cm for males or 88cm for females.
d) is taking prescription medications (with the exception of birth control or anti-malarial drugs other than mefloquine (Lariam)
e) has had surgery in the last 12 months
f) struggles to perform moderate exercise (for example, walk 1.6 km/ 1 mile in 14 minutes; or swim 200 m/yards without resting), OR has been unable to participate in normal physical activity due to fitness or health reasons within the past 12 months.
If any of the above applies, a medical certificate may be required. The medical certification should be provided in English, preferably by a medical practitioner with experience in diving medicine, within 90 days prior to the first scuba dive. The certificate must state that the person is medically fit to dive.
No refunds on uncompleted dives due to medical conditions and/or prescribed medications or change of mind.
If you do have any pre-existing/existing medical conditions or are taking any medication whatsoever and are not sure whether you will be deemed medically fit to Scuba Dive, please get in touch with us, we will be only too happy to help you if we can. Alternatively, the best thing to do is to consult your own Doctor for a Dive Medical.
Peak Season Surcharge
A Peak Season SURCHARGE of $100 per person is payable onboard on the first day of travel and is applicable for all travel:
• from the 17/04/2025 to 22/04/2025
• from the 23/12/2025 to 01/01/2026
• from the 02/04/2026 to 07/04/2026
• from the 23/12/2026 to 01/01/2027
Chillagoe Caves Australian Outback Tour
Cancellation Policy
A minimum of 24 hours notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any changes made to the booking (date, names, etc.) will incur a $20 administration fee.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day. Please be aware that cancellation attempts made through online chat or phone will not be processed.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 24 hours or more before departure
100% cancellation fee within 24 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather, etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
• Neither this site, nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of damage, delay or personal injury.
• All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger.
• Please inform us of any special requirements prior to your date of travel; such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done by contacting our friendly reservations team.
A minimum of 24 hours' notice is required to re-schedule or alter all or part of a reservation.
Any date and/or name change will incur a $20 administration fee.
We are required to notify the operator of any cancellations within the specified cancellation period. It is your responsibility to make sure you submit your cancellation request with adequate time, and during our standard business hours (9 am-5 pm), to allow us to contact the tour provider. All cancellation requests must be in writing and sent via email to: [email protected]. Any emails received outside of these hours will be considered received the following day.
Cancellation fees are as follows:
20% cancellation fee 24 hours or more before departure
100% cancellation fee within 24 hours before departure and for "No Show"
There will be no refund of any part of your tour costs should you fail to arrive at a scheduled tour departure time. Tour departures may not be delayed due to passenger circumstances - including events beyond your control, medical problems, airline delays, weather, etc.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation insurance, evacuation, and medical cover.
In the unlikely event we are not able to operate a tour, due to weather conditions or unplanned operational events, an alternate travel date will be offered, or a full refund processed.
Terms And Conditions
This website acts as a booking agent only for the tours advertised herein. Although we endeavour to provide accurate information, we are not liable for inaccurate information concerning services.
Adults Fare: Passengers 15 years of age and older.
Child Fare: Passengers aged between 4-14 years (inclusive).
We are not liable for changes to tours, pricing or itineraries, all of which are subject to change without notice.
Neither this site nor any associated company or agent advertised through this site is responsible for your costs or losses resulting from alterations, cancellations, loss of personal belongings, property damage, delay or personal injury.
All passengers are strongly advised to purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation, evacuation, and medical cover. Please read the wording of your insurance policy carefully and ensure it covers you for all potential activities. In a medical emergency, any evacuation, vessel relocation, medical or other expenses are the financial responsibility of that passenger.
Please inform us of any special requirements prior to your date of travel; such as dietary requirements, allergies, mobility and disability issues. This can be done in the 'Booking Message' section of your online reservation or by contacting our friendly reservations team.
