Reef Encounter and Daintree Rainforest Package

About Reef Encounter and Daintree Rainforest Package

  • Experience two World Heritage-listed wonders in one incredible package – Spend a night on the Great Barrier Reef aboard Reef Encounter, followed by a day exploring the ancient beauty of the Daintree Rainforest.
  • Flexible stay options to suit your schedule—You can stay on Reef Encounter for one or multiple nights, with easy booking options to tailor the experience to your preferences.
  • All-inclusive reef adventure – Enjoy comfortable stateroom accommodation, delicious chef-prepared meals, and various activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours.
  • Discover the wonders of the Daintree Rainforest—walk beneath towering trees, cruise along the Daintree River, spot wildlife and visit the iconic Cape Tribulation, where the reef meets the rainforest.
  • Guided tours with expert local guides— Gain fascinating insights into the rich history, unique biodiversity, and cultural significance of the Daintree with informative guided walks and scenic lookout stops.
  • Enjoy breathtaking scenery—travel along the picturesque coastal drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, stopping at stunning locations such as Palm Cove, Port Douglas, and Mossman Gorge.
  • Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers – Whether you want to relax and take in the scenery or dive into thrilling activities, this package offers an unforgettable mix of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.

Experience the best of both worlds with our Reef Encounter and Daintree Rainforest tour package. Your adventure begins with an unforgettable overnight stay at Reef Encounter, a floating hotel on the Great Barrier Reef. After exploring the wonders of the reef, you’ll embark on a scenic journey to the Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest in the world.

You can stay on the reef for one or multiple nights with flexible options. Click the Book Now button and customise your experience to suit your preferences.


Reef Encounter—Your Floating Reef Hotel

Spending a night on Reef Encounter is an incredible way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy the comfort of spacious stateroom accommodation, each offering stunning reef views and a private ensuite bathroom. Our onboard chef will prepare delicious, nutritious meals throughout your stay to energise you for your reef adventures.

Once you’ve settled into your stateroom, it’s time to dive into the action! Choose from various activities, including snorkelling, introductory scuba diving, and certified dive experiences. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced diver, an adventure awaits you.

After an exciting day exploring the reef, relax on the spacious sun deck and watch the breathtaking sunset over one of the world’s seven natural wonders. Reef Encounter offers all the luxury amenities of a reef resort while floating on the pristine waters of the Great Barrier Reef, making it an unforgettable experience.

Reef Encounter Facilities

  • A 35-metre, fully air-conditioned catamaran designed for stability and comfort at sea.
  • Spacious dining saloon serving freshly prepared meals.
  • Comfortable TV and lounge area for relaxing after a day in the water.
  • Outdoor freshwater hot tub for the ultimate relaxation.
  • Expansive sun deck with loungers to soak up the tropical sun.
  • It is a fully licensed bar with a great selection of drinks.
  • Large dive and snorkel platforms for easy water access.
  • Optional scenic helicopter transfers to/from the vessel, offering breathtaking aerial views of the reef.

Liveaboard Accommodation Features

  • Check-in: 10:00 AM | Check-out: 8:00 AM.
  • Spacious, air-conditioned staterooms with panoramic reef views.
  • Ensuite bathrooms featuring a shower and toilet.
  • Complimentary towels and toiletries (soap, shampoo, and conditioner).
  • Australian power outlets in all rooms for your convenience.

Daintree Rainforest Tour – Step into Ancient Wonder

On day two, enter another world as you visit the breathtaking Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. This lush, ancient forest is home to stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and abundant unique flora and fauna.

Your adventure begins with a scenic drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation, taking in one of Australia’s most picturesque coastal routes. You’ll pass through Palm Cove, a charming tropical beach town, and stop in Port Douglas, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Four Mile Beach from Flagstaff Hill Lookout.

Mossman Gorge—A Natural Wonderland

Next, you’ll visit the spectacular Mossman Gorge, located at the southern edge of the Daintree National Park. This iconic site features a crystal-clear mountain river that winds through lush rainforest and tumbles over smooth granite boulders. Enjoy a delicious morning tea of bush scones before embarking on a guided rainforest walk to discover the area’s rich Indigenous heritage and stunning biodiversity.

Daintree River Cruise—Spot Crocodiles and Wildlife

After exploring Mossman Gorge, it’s time to head further north for a delicious lunch at a local Tea House surrounded by tropical gardens. Then, embark on a leisurely cruise along the Daintree River, where you’ll have the chance to spot crocodiles, green tree snakes, butterflies, and various birdlife in their natural habitat. This unique experience offers fantastic photo opportunities and insights into the delicate ecosystem of the Daintree.

Cape Tribulation—Where the Rainforest Meets the Reef

The adventure continues as you cross the mighty Daintree River by cable ferry and enter the heart of the Daintree Rainforest. A stop at Alexandra Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rainforest canopy stretching out to the Coral Sea.

Once you arrive at Cape Tribulation, your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a fascinating walk along scenic boardwalks.  Visitors can enjoy the incredible biodiversity of the rainforest. The tour concludes with a visit to Kulki Lookout and Cape Tribulation Beach, where you’ll witness the iconic meeting point of the rainforest and the reef—a truly unforgettable sight.

Reef Encounter and Daintree Rainforest Frequently Asked Questions and Answers 

What is included in the Reef Encounter and Daintree Rainforest package?

This package includes an unforgettable overnight stay at Reef Encounter, chef-prepared meals, and various activities such as snorkelling and scuba diving. You’ll then embark on a full-day guided tour of the Daintree Rainforest, featuring stops at Mossman Gorge, a Daintree River wildlife cruise, and a visit to the iconic Cape Tribulation Beach.

Can I choose how many nights I stay on Reef Encounter?

Yes! Our flexible package allows you to stay aboard Reef Encounter for one or multiple nights.

What should I bring for the trip?

We recommend bringing comfortable clothing, swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen to make the most of your adventure. For the Daintree Rainforest tour, pack comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Towels and snorkelling equipment are provided onboard Reef Encounter, so you don’t need to bring your own.

Do I need any prior experience to snorkel or dive?

Not at all! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Reef Encounter caters to all skill levels. Introductory scuba diving sessions are available for beginners with full instruction from professional guides, and snorkelling is perfect for anyone wanting to explore the reef at their own pace. Certified divers can also enjoy multiple dives at spectacular reef sites.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

On the Great Barrier Reef, you’ll have the chance to spot vibrant coral formations, colourful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. In the Daintree Rainforest, watch for ancient plant species, native wildlife like cassowaries and crocodiles, and an incredible array of birdlife during your river cruise and guided walks.

Conclusion

Reef Encounter and Daintree Rainforest package is the perfect way to experience two of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders. Whether you’re diving into the reef’s crystal-clear waters or exploring the lush depths of the rainforest, this adventure promises memories to last a lifetime.

Things to do on the Great Barrier Reef

from $884
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Included

Twin Bed Stateroom Cabin - Reef Encounter

Reef Encounter Stateroom

Twin Share

2 x Single beds, ensuite Stateroom. Share with another guest

Daintree Rainforest Tour

Cairns, Beaches, Port Douglas

Experience World Heritage-listed location in style and comfort on this one day Daintree Rainforest package.

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