Queensland Family Adventure
Brisbane - Great Barrier Reef Cruise - Gold Coast

G'day and welcome to sunny Queensland, the first stop of your family adventure is the cosmopolitan city of Brisbane – this modern metropolis boasts a vibrant centre, subtropical climate and unsurpassed natural beauty. Your hotel is centrally located in stylish South Bank, so once you’ve settled in you can step outside and absorb all this fabulous city has to offer. Perhaps meet native Australian wildlife up close, then opt for a bike ride through the City Botanic Gardens, or stroll around the abundant art galleries. As night falls, Brisbane offers a superb selection of restaurants; tuck into fine Queensland cuisine while overlooking the twinkling lights of Story Bridge.

4* Rydges South Bank Brisbane

Board the incredible Voyager of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s state-of-the-art ship, where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. With next-level entertainment, thrilling activities like the Perfect Storm waterslide or, and world-class dining, your journey to the Great Barrier Reef begins in true style. Settle into your luxurious stateroom and enjoy a spectacular sail-away from Brisbane.

While at sea, take time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at any of the onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck until you arrive at the next destination.

Start your day exploring this seaside town: Stroll the Bicentennial Walkway along the oceanfront, then head to Airlie Beach Lagoon or Boathaven Beach for an afternoon dip. Or take a half-day trip to the famous Whitsunday Islands. There, you can snorkel along the Great Barrier Reef, or discover rain forest hiking paths and secluded beaches at Molle National Park.

There's a lot you can experience with a single day in Cairns. Take half-day trip to Green Island, where you can snorkel along the outer Great Barrier Reef. Or, you can head to the rainforest at Kuranda and visit the region's best beaches nearby at Palm Cove and Trinity Beach. Otherwise, stay in Cairns and relax at the Esplanade Lagoon before doing some souvenir shopping.

Cruising by Willis Island, you'll see a small sandy vegetated cay surrounded by reef. Situated in the Coral Sea, the island is home to much of the same ocean wildlife as the nearby Great Barrier Reef. Spot long-winged wedgetail shearwaters and black-and-white sooty terns flying over the turquoise waters. Try to spot hammerhead sharks or bright-yellow queen angelfish swimming among the reef.

With another day at sea, explore more of the facilities onboard Voyager of the Seas. Whether you choose to cool down on the FlowRider, or enjoy one of the Outdoor Movie Nights, today is free to spend however you wish.

Return to Brisbane and make your own way to the Gold Coast. Here you'll spend your final two days exploring the golden sands and turquoise blue waters of Queenslands iconic Gold Coast. Visit the famous Surfer's Paradise, pick up a board and learn to ride a wave, Australian style!

4* Novotel Surfers Paradise