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East Coast Explorer

10 Days Brisbane to Cairns
East Coast Explorer
East Coast Explorer
East Coast Explorer
New Release Coach Group Scenic

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on APT's 10 Day East Coast Explorer. Queensland is a treasure trove of natural wonders. From the ancient Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, to paradise islands and coastal cityscapes, discover the best of Australia’s sunshine state from the Gold Coast to Cairns.
Sold Out
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either the season has ended and new dates will be released soon, or the itinerary has been updated and isn’t operating this season.
Trip Length
Trip Length

10 Days

Trip Starts
Trip Starts

Brisbane

Trip Ends
Trip Ends

Cairns

Countries Visited
Countries Visited:
Operator
Operator
APT
Trip Style
Trip Style

Land Journey

Accommodation
Accommodation

4 - 4.5 Star

Budget
Budget

Premium

Age Range
Age Range

12-99 Years

Max. Group Size
Max. Group Size

40

Guide Style
Guide Style

Fully Guided

Tour Code
Tour Code

OZGCC10

Itinerary

Arrive in Brisbane and check in to your accommodation. This evening, experience a special event as you journey into the Queensland Outback at the Outback Spectacular. Enjoy VIP red carpet entry, a complimentary drink on arrival, and a delicious three-course dinner while being immersed in a theatrical showcase of Australian outback life. After the show, return to your Brisbane accommodation for an overnight stay. Stay: The Westin Brisbane (D)

Start your day with an exciting treetop walk at the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk. Located within 30 acres of private rainforest at the base of Mount Tamborine, this experience takes you along forest floor trails, modern steel bridges, and a cantilever bridge that soars 30 meters above the creek and rainforest canopy.

Back aboard your coach, your Driver-Guide continues north towards Noosa, stopping en route at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world's first, and largest of its kind. Enjoy a rare close encounter with these cuddly native animals and learn about their daily care, behaviors and unique personalities.

Later, arrive in Noosa, a charming seaside town on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, known for its pristine natural beauty, relaxed luxury, and upscale dining. This evening, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Stay: Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas (B)

Your journey continues from Noosa to K'gari, formerly 'Fraser Island', the largest sand island in the world. K'gari - meaning ‘paradise' in the language of the Traditional Owners of the land, the Butchulla people - is a World Heritage-listed island boasting stunning landscapes and a thrilling array of wildlife. Upon arrival to this sandy haven, take part in a bush tucker demonstration to discover how native ingredients have been traditionally used in food and medicine, followed by a tasting of a special selection of native berries, lemon myrtle, barbecued meats and more.

Continue to your resort and, after time to settle in, join your fellow travelers at Illumina, an after-dark light and sound spectacle. Hosted at Kingfisher Bay & Resort, Illumina uses the surrounding landscape as the stage to retell the story of how K'gari came to be. Dinner this evening will be hosted at one of your resort's exceptional restaurants. Stay Two Nights: K'gari (Fraser Island), Kingfisher Bay Resort (B/D)

Spend today on a full day 4WD adventure across the entire island, exploring all of K'gari's must-see sights. Stop at the breathtaking Lake Mackenzie to see the bright turquoise waters and walk across the sugar-white silica sand, before continuing to the famous 75 Mile Beach, Maheno shipwreck and the popular swimming spot Eli Creek.

Tonight, savor a memorable two-course dinner at your resort's restaurant. (B/L/D)

Following breakfast, bid farewell to the sandy paradise of K'gari and return to the mainland. Stop in Bundaberg, a town located at the southern point of the Great Barrier Reef. Bundaberg is renowned for its world-class rum distillery and sea turtle population. Travelers from far and wide flock here to catch a glimpse of nesting and hatching turtles during turtle season.

Continue to Rockhampton, coined ‘Beef City' thanks to its thriving beef industry. Stretch your legs with a wander along the Fitzroy River which runs through the centre of town, admiring the colonial architecture of the main streets. Further northeast of Rockhampton, arrive at Yeppoon, a coastal enclave on the Capricorn Coast and your home for the night.

This evening, feast on locally inspired dishes with a two-course dinner at the celebrated VUE Wine Bar & Restaurant. Stay: Salt Yeppoon (B/D)

Following breakfast, board your luxury coach for the journey to Airlie Beach, stopping en route to explore Mackay, a town home to Australia's longest stretch of subtropical rainforest.

Continue to Airlie Beach and join a guided tour upon arrival. The gateway to the iconic Whitsunday Islands, Airlie Beach is a favorite destination for sun-seekers and snorkelers. While it's the perfect launchpad for exploring the Great Barrier Reef's dazzling islands and coral gardens, Airlie Beach itself offers palm-lined beaches, vibrant nightlife, and alfresco dining.

Cap off your day with a two-course dinner at your hotel. Stay: Mantra Club Croc Airlie Beach (B/D)

This morning, travel 275 kilometers north of Airlie Beach to Magnetic Island, a slice of paradise located just off the coast of Townsville. Following a brief ferry ride, arrive at the stunning natural wonderland which boasts pristine beaches framed by swaying palm trees, large granite boulders and fringing coral reefs.

With an afternoon to spend at your leisure, perhaps look out for snoozing koalas on a self-guided walk along one of the many hiking trails, don a snorkel and explore the flourishing coral gardens, or visit the island's nano brewery for a handcrafted brew and a bite to eat (own expense).

Return to your hotel this evening and indulge in island-style dining at the Boardwalk Restaurant & Bar. Stay Two Nights: Peppers Blue on Blue Resort Magnetic Island (B/D)

Embrace laid-back island living with a leisurely start to you morning before setting off on Magnetic Island's most beloved walking track, Forts Walk. The trail presents an opportune chance to take in the island's highlights, from postcard-perfect panoramas and World War II relics to wild koalas munching on leaves. Enjoy an afteroon at leisure. (B/D)

Farewell Magnetic Island and return to the mainland via ferry for the journey by coach to Cairns. This tropical city in Far North Queensland is a true reflection of the region: relaxed, outdoorsy and plenty of things to do. Just 1.5 hours outside the city, visit the famed Paronella Park, an idyllic garden oasis featuring a castle, picnic area, waterfall, tennis court, bridges and over 7,500 tropical plants and trees. Savor a light lunch in this leafy haven before taking time to explore your surrounds.

In the evening, a special farewell dinner awaits at Dundee's Waterfront Dining. Feast on fresh local seafood, succulent grilled beef or unique Australian fare including kangaroo and crocodile as you reflect on your journey with your fellow travelers and new-found friends. Stay: Cairns, Shangri-La The Marina (B/L/D)

Your exciting Queensland journey comes to an end today after breakfast. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Queensland Outback Spectacular: Embark on a premium rail journey to the Queensland Outback for the Outback Spectacular immersive theatrical performance. Enjoy VIP entry, a welcome drink, and a three-course dinner before returning to your hotel by rail.
  • K'gari Bush Dinner and Light Show: Experience the rich culture of K'gari (Fraser Island) with a bush tucker demonstration, sampling native ingredients, followed by Illumina — a captivating after-dark spectacle retelling the island's creation story through light and sound.
  • Queensland Garden Oasis: Explore Paronella Park, a magical garden sanctuary featuring a historic castle, cascading waterfalls, and over 7,500 tropical plants. Wander its enchanting grounds and uncover the charm of this natural wonderland.
  • Unrivalled Dining in Cairns: Savor a special farewell dinner at Dundee's Waterfront Dining, featuring fresh local seafood, succulent grilled beef, and unique Australian fare like kangaroo and crocodile, as you reflect on your journey.

  • Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
  • Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary, especially in remote locations
  • APT highly recommends travel insurance
  • Arrival flight to the Brisbane/Gold Coast on Day 1 must arrive prior to 2pm otherwise touring and dinner on this evening may be forfeited
  • Tour Activity Level – Moderate. This tour includes some walks with gentle slopes and uneven ground
  • Prices are for land only. Flights not included unless specified

Operator

APT
 (469) Reviews
Total No. of Tours & Cruises149
APT is an Australian family-owned company whose essence began in Melbourne in the 1920s. More than 90 years on, APT offers life-enriching trips to every continent, and through the company’s vast industry experience, meticulous planning and unquestionable passion it's earned a place among the world’s most well-regarded travel more companies.

From boutique river cruising to small-group 4WD adventures; traditional coach touring with a decadent twist; epic rail journeys to small-ship expeditions; classic ocean cruising to safaris of discovery by both land and air – there’s little APT are unwilling to consider in pursuit of creating the finest holiday experience for its valued guests.

Timeless luxury, exclusive experiences, life enriching moments and true personalisation. APT offers all-inclusive holidays so everything is taken care of. We invite you to join us; you won’t be disappointed.
Discover Queensland
Discover Queensland

APT's expertly guided Queensland tours take you beyond the typical tourist paths, offering a deeper connection to the places you visit. Read more

The APT Difference
The APT Difference

Expert-led travel, exclusive experiences, and over 95 years of crafting seamless, unforgettable journeys. Read more

All Taken Care Of
All Taken Care Of

At APT, we like to make things as easy as possible. Our journeys are what we like to call All-Inspiring Luxury. Read more

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APT Australia (2026) Brochure

APT Australia (2026)

Discover all Australia has to offer, from its magnificent reefs and ancient rainforests, to its bustling cities and boundless outback landscapes alive with Indigenous Australian culture. Whether you want to journey to the ends of the landor find yourself within Australia’s spiritual centre, APT offers a wide range of 4WD Tours, Small Ship Expedition more Cruises, River Cruises, Land Tours, Rail Tours and Luxury Short Breaks.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by APT. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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