11 Day Sydney to Airlie Beach (Whitsundays)

Itinerary

DAY 1: Sydney to Myall Lakes

Our journey commences bright and early when we depart Sydney via the Harbour Bridge. Crossing the mighty Hawkesbury River, we travel past Ku-Ring-gai Chase National Park before heading into the well known Hunter Valley wine region and north again to Myall Lakes.

Overnight: Myall Shores Resort
Meals: Dinner

DAY 2: Myall Lakes to Byron Bay

Our journey commences bright and early, when we depart this pristine region and make our way northwards along the Pacific Highway. We travel through the Northern Rivers towns of Grafton and Ballina before reaching the buzzing, resort town of Byron Bay, Australia’s most easterly township. Renowned for its surfing beaches, beautiful rainforests and eclectic lifestyle, Byron Bay oozes a relaxed vibe that “hooks” many a traveller.

Accommodation: Glen Villa Resort Cabins
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 3: Byron Bay

A full day ahead to enjoy what Byron Bay has to offer. Try a surfing lesson*, go diving* sea kayaking* or just chill out on the beach. The galleries and craft shops are also sure to fascinate, as are the many cafes and alternate cuisines that are available here. A great scenic walk is to the lighthouse at Cape Byron where the views are breathtaking. It’s even possible that you may see some dolphins or whales as they pass by. No matter if you do too much or too little here, you are certain to enjoy it.

Accommodation - Glen Villa Resort Cabins

DAY 4: Byron Bay to Gold Coast

Enjoy a relaxed start to the morning before we depart Byron Bay. Our short journey takes us up the highway to Surfers Paradise and the “Gold Coast”. This region is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations with its great climate, famous surf beaches, meter maids, and awesome laidback lifestyle.

Accommodation - Paradise Resort

DAY 5: Gold Coast to Fraser Island

A short drive this morning to Queensland’s capital city, Brisbane before we head further north along the Bruce Highway we pass the world famous Glasshouse Mountains, the old gold mining town of Gympie and the heritage township of Maryborough before arriving at Hervey Bay. Here we board our ferry to cross the Great Sandy Straight, bound for Fraser Island. Perfectly located at Kingfisher Bay, the Wilderness Lodge accommodation is set in a eucalypt forest at Kingfisher Bay Resort, on the western side of the island.
Accommodation - Kingfisher Bay Wilderness Lodge (Share Facilities)
Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner   

DAY 6: Fraser Island

Fraser Island – Great Sandy National Park is World Heritage Listed and is the world’s largest sand island. It was home to the Badtjala Aboriginal people for some 5000 years and was known as ”K’gari”. This special place supports an extraordinarily diverse rainforest, wildflower heath, mangroves, birds and a large population of dingoes. The island has dunes that reach 240 metres in height and about 40 dune lakes – half the number in the world. A great way to see this magnificent national park is on an optional 4-wheel drive tour* along the unspoilt surf beaches and to pristine inland freshwater lakes that are ideal for swimming.

Accommodation - Kingfisher Bay Wilderness Lodge  (Share Facilities)
Meals:  Breakfast

DAY 7: Fraser Island to Rockhampton

This morning we say our last goodbyes to Fraser Island, board our ferry and return to the mainland. Continuing our journey northwards through sugar cane country, we make a stop for lunch then arrive into the beef capital of Queensland - Rockhampton (Rocky).

Accommodation - Sundowner Rockhampton
Meals:  Breakfast, Dinner  

DAYS 8 & 9: Rockhampton to Whitsundays

It’s a big day today as we head off for the gorgeous Whitsundays where you’re in for a real treat. If there’s a heaven on earth, it’s definitely in the Whitsundays so prepare to enjoy! And the best way to experience this gorgeous region is onboard a boat – your home for the next 2 nights! You’ll be watching the sunset over the water tonight from the heart of paradise. (Bx2,Lx1,Dx2) For any landlubbers, there is an option to stay in Airlie Beach* - meals and itinerary vary - please contact Connections for further information.

Accommodation - Tall Ship Sailing - Share Bunks
Meals – Breakfast, Dinner    

DAY 10: Whitsundays to Airlie Beach

This morning we set sail again for another idyllic location before sadly returning to the mainland and the resort town of Airlie Beach. Here our Landlubber Friends will rejoin us and we’ll get to experience a night out in “Airlie” – famous for it’s laid back lifestyle, colourful characters and toad racing!!

Accommodation - Club Crocodile Resort Airlie Beach
Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch 

DAY 11: Airlie Beach

This morning we say farewell.

Meals: Breakfast

Trip Highlights

• Exploring vibrant Byron Bay
• Kayaking on Myall Lakes
• Sightseeing on the Gold Coast
• Return ferry transfer to/from Fraser Island
• The spectacular waterways of the Whitsundays
• Awesome 2 Day Tall Ship Sailing Experience
• A visit to the Hunter Valley Wine Region
• Budget quad share accommodation (Multi Bunks Sailing)
• Applicable park entry fees
• Meals as indicated