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East Coast Island Escape

13 Days Cairns to Brisbane
East Coast Island Escape
East Coast Island Escape
East Coast Island Escape

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Outback Spirit's 13 Day East Coast Island Escape. World renowned as a tropical paradise, the heavenly Queensland coast has long been the playground of choice for southerners seeking sun and sand. Travelling along its shoreline, meandering through cane fields and dense rainforest; it’s simply one of the best road trips you’ll ever do. With Outback Spirit, you’ll explore the best the region has to offer including Fraser Island, Heron Island, the Atherton Tablelands and Port Douglas, to name just a few. You’ll have time for adventure, and time to relax and read more take in the incredible vistas of palm fringed beaches and azure blue water.
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US$7,265 per person
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Trip Length
Trip Length

13 Days

Trip Starts
Trip Starts

Cairns

Trip Ends
Trip Ends

Brisbane

Countries Visited
Countries Visited:
Operator
Operator
Outback Spirit
Trip Style
Trip Style

4WD Adventure

Accommodation
Accommodation

4 - 4.5 Star

Budget
Budget

Premium

Age Range
Age Range

18-99 Years

Max. Group Size
Max. Group Size

26

Guide Style
Guide Style

Fully Guided

Tour Code
Tour Code

ECIER

Itinerary

Today you will be greeted by our friendly and professional Tour Directors, before departing Cairns and travelling along the Captain Cook Highway to Mossman and then onto the picturesque Daintree Village.

Enjoy a cruise on the Daintree River with an expert guide who will share their intricate knowledge of the local ecosystem before checking in to the fully refurbished Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort where we will spend the next two nights. Stay: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas (L/D)

This morning we make our way to the Marina Mirage where we board the Quicksilver ‘Wavedancer' Catamaran. Enjoy an informative talk by a marine biologist before heading out for the blue waters of the Low Isles in the Coral Sea.

Set like a jewel in a Great Barrier Reef Lagoon, Low Isles is an idyllic and unspoilt coral island. The clear and calm lagoon waters are ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Visitors are limited to protect the reef's ecology, so the whole of this beautiful, palm fringed island beach is yours to explore and enjoy!

Late this afternoon we are transferred back to the Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort and prepare for the unique ‘Flames of the Forest' rainforest dining experience, located a short drive out of town. Stay: Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas (B/L/D)

Departing Port Douglas this morning we travel south through Mt Molloy and Mareeba, taking in the magnificent farming regions of the Atherton Tablelands, before we head to Millaa Millaa Falls. We descend from the tablelands and head to Paronella Park, home to one of Australia's earliest hydro power systems.

Built in the 1930's to provide entertainment to the public, the park featured tennis courts, a cinema and even a ballroom inspired by Spanish castles. This fascinating historic site is now heritage listed and a highlight of your visit to North Queensland.

Passing through the small township of El Arish, we make our way to Mission Beach where we spend the night at Castaways Resort and Spa which is located right on the beachfront.

Arrive in time to enjoy a stroll along this sensational beach before dinner in the resort restaurant overlooking the Coral Sea. Stay: Castaways Resort and Spa, Mission Beach (B/L/D)

An early start today as we depart Mission Beach and head south to Townsville and visit the Maritime Museum. This was established in 1986 when the Townsville Harbour Board proposed to the Seafarers Association to set up a nautical display.

Funded by a Federal grant for capital works, the Museum complex was architecturally redesigned with a footprint in the shape of a ship to include a viewing deck along with new and improved galleries, a memorial garden, model ship gallery, WW2 history, and the original bell of the steamship Yongala which disappeared off the coast in March 1911.

In 2007 HMAS Townsville, a Fremantle Class Patrol Boat, was also gifted to the Museum by the Commonwealth Department of Defence.

After lunch we take the ferry across to Magnetic Island. Enjoy a tour of the island and explore the sights and beaches including Arcadia Bay. We return to the mainland and spend the night at the Ville Resort. Stay: Ville Resort, Townsville (B/L/D)

This morning we follow the coastline south passing through Ayr and Bowen onto Proserpine. From Proserpine, we head towards Airlie Beach where we board our Cruise Whitsundays transfer to Hamilton Island ready for our two night stay at the Reef View Hotel.

With the casual ambience of tropical North Queensland combined with the sophistication and style of this resort, you will certainly enjoy your time here.

*Please note that Hamilton Island is cashless Stay: Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island (B/L/D)

Today we depart for a cruise to Whitehaven Beach. The cruise is a leisurely half day scenic cruise to this magnificent beach. Your cruise vessel has expansive seating areas inside and out and your friendly skipper will provide an informative commentary on the history and natural wonders of the area.

Once at the beach, sink your toes into the fine white silica sands of Whitehaven and enjoy the warm, crystal-clear waters. This is Mother Nature at her best! Back on the vessel, sit back, breathe in the sea air and marvel at the 74 Island Wonders of the Whitsundays.

Later today at Hamilton Island, you might like to jump on a shuttle bus and tour around the island. The shuttles circuit the island all day stopping at key attractions, scenic points, and resorts, so hop on and off as you please. Enjoy a wander along the waterfront of Hamilton Island's famous Front Street and Marina Village taking in the sights, visiting the galleries and doing some shopping.

This afternoon enjoy some leisure time before our final night in this beautiful island location. Stay: Reef View Hotel, Hamilton Island (B/L/D)

An early start this morning as we head back to Airlie Beach and journey south to the coastal town of Yeppoon, before heading to Rockhampton where we enjoy a brief town tour.

We then check in to our overnight accommodation at the Empire Apartment Hotel, Rockhampton's newest and largest apartment hotel in the heart of the CBD Riverfront Precinct. Stay: Empire Apartment Hotel, Rockhampton (B/L/D)

From here we travel south to Gladstone and take the ferry transfer over to Heron Island. A natural coral cay located in the Great Barrier Reef, 80kms off the coast of Queensland near the Tropic of Capricorn.

The island is small enough to walk around in 20 minutes, yet it has everything you could wish for: a restaurant to satisfy healthy appetites, a deep resort swimming pool backing onto a bar and an abundance of wildlife that will truly amaze.

Your next two nights will be spent on this beautiful island at Heron Island Resort in beachside suites. Stay: Heron Island Resort, Heron Island (B/L/D)

During your stay on Heron Island there's a range of activities available to discover all the island and reef has to offer. These include beach-snorkelling, sunset cruise, research station, guided walks and a semi-submarine marine tour.

* Please note: Daily activities vary and are weather dependent. Research Station is only open on a Tuesday and Saturday. Stay: Heron Island Resort, Heron Island (B/L/D)

Today we'll board the ferry back to the mainland where we enjoy a tour of Gladstone including a visit to Round Hill Lookout, before checking in to the Mantra Hotel. Stay: Mantra Hotel, Gladstone (B/L/D)

This morning we continue our journey south along the Bruce Highway to River Heads, where we catch the Kingfisher Bay Ferry across to K'gari (formerly Fraser Island). We are then transferred to the Kingfisher Bay Resort for our two night stay on the island. Stay: Kingfisher Bay Resort, K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) (B/L/D)

Today enjoy a full day 4WD tour of K'gari. Travel along 75 Mile Beach to the coloured sands of the Pinnacles and visit the Maheno Shipwreck. Also visit K'gari's most beautiful lake- Lake McKenzie.

Enjoy a swim in the clear blue water surrounded by pristine white beaches. Also stop for a swim at Eli Creek and tour through the island's rainforest before returning to the resort mid-afternoon. Stay: Kingfisher Bay Resort, K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) (B/L/D)

Enjoy your return ferry transfer from K'gari to River Heads, before making our way to Brisbane, passing by the Sunshine Coast. You will then be transferred according to the details specified. (B/L)

Trip Inclusions

Moments of Magic

  • The Whitsundays - Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsundays are a collection of 74 stunning islands on the North QLD coast. Discover this magical paradise on a cruise to Whitehaven Beach, one of Australia's iconic natural wonders.
  • Heron Island - The ultimate paradise for nature lovers, Heron Island is a World Heritage Listed marine park of incredible natural wonder. Colourful coral and crystal-clear aquamarine waters await.
  • 4WD Adventure on K'gari - Discover the world's largest sand island on an exciting full day 4WD adventure. Travel along 75-mile beach to the Maheno Shipwreck, visit pristine Lake McKenzie and float down Eli Creek.

Tour Highlights

  • Spend 2 nights on Heron Island, a natural coral cay in the southern Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
  • Experience the magic and beauty of the Whitsundays with a half day cruise to Whitehaven Beach
  • Spend 2 nights on K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) and enjoy a full day 4WD tour
  • Swim in K'gari's beautiful Lake McKenzie & float down Eli Creek. Also travel along 75-mile Beach and visit the Maheno Shipwreck
  • Enjoy a Great Barrier Reef cruise to the idyllic and unspoilt Low Isles
  • Visit Magnetic Island and explore the sights and beaches including Arcadia Bay
  • Tour through the Atherton Tablelands and visit Millaa Millaa Falls
  • Cruise the wild Daintree River
  • Enjoy a 'Flames of the Forest' dining experience in Port Douglas
  • Visit the unique historical ruins of a Spanish Castle at Paronella Park

  • Small group size - 26
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) included. Complimentary beverages from a selected list included at lunch and dinner (when dining at licensed venues only).
  • All attraction fees, cruise fees and national park fees
  • Travel aboard a 5-star All Terrain Mercedes Benz Coach
  • Services of a professional 2 person crew: Tour Driver and Tour Director
  • 12 nights of hotel and resort accommodation
  • Outback Spirit Explorer Pack (for first-time travellers only)

  • Itinerary and inclusions subject to change - Every effort will be made by your crew to ensure that the above itinerary is followed. However, Outback Spirit reserves the right to alter the itinerary once on tour as required due to weather and track conditions or other operational considerations.
  • Prices are for land tour only, flights not included unless specified

Operator

Outback Spirit
 (1) Review
Total No. of Adventures26
Choosing Outback Spirit means choosing an award-winning tour operator. We’re proud to have been acknowledged for consistently delivering professional and authentic adventures to remote destinations of Australia. From the very beginning, Outback Spirit has focused on offering a more personal, intimate and rewarding experience more on its adventure tours. Of course, that can only be achieved by travelling in a small group of like-minded travellers.
Inclusive Small Group Adventures
Inclusive Small Group Adventures

Enjoy an intimate and enriching touring experience with other like-minded people on an inclusive Outback Spirit small group journey. Read more

Expert Drivers & Guides
Expert Drivers & Guides

Highly professional, passionate and always willing to go the extra mile, Outback Spirit's guides provide a seamless touring experience. Read more

Mercedes Benz 4WD Touring Coaches
Mercedes Benz 4WD Touring Coaches

When you travel with Outback Spirit, you're guaranteed to travel in the comfort and safety of Mercedes Benz. Read more

Download Brochure

Outback Spirit 4WD Adventures (2026) Brochure

Outback Spirit 4WD Adventures (2026)

Explore the remote heart of Australia in comfort and style with Outback Spirit’s all-inclusive, small-group adventures. Travel aboard a custom fleet of luxury 4WDs to exclusive camps, lodges, and off-the-map destinations like Arnhem Land and the Kimberley. With expert guides, unrivalled access, and a strong focus on sustainability, Outback Spirit offers more an immersive outback experience unlike any other.

Dates & Pricing USD USD

Wednesday 07 Oct 2026 07 Oct 26 Cairns
Monday 19 Oct 2026 19 Oct 26 Brisbane
Details
Definite Departure
Fly Free
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,116
US$8,204
Save $912
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 10 Oct 2026 10 Oct 26 Cairns
Thursday 22 Oct 2026 22 Oct 26 Brisbane
Details
Definite Departure
Fly Free
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,116
US$8,204
Save $912
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday 14 Oct 2026 14 Oct 26 Cairns
Monday 26 Oct 2026 26 Oct 26 Brisbane
Details
Definite Departure
Fly Free
Exclusive 10% Pay In Full Discount
Was: $9,116
US$8,204
Save $912
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
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 Outback Spirit. 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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