Discovering the Great Barrier Reef 

Just a short cruise from Cairns, Fitzroy Island brings together two of Tropical North Queensland's defining landscapes: lush rainforest and the brilliant waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Much of the island is protected as national park, with walking trails leading through tropical vegetation to secluded stretches of coastline, including Nudey Beach. Spend the afternoon snorkeling, diving, or kayaking over the fringing reef, keeping watch for colorful marine life and sea turtles. Guests can also learn more about local conservation efforts at the island's turtle rehabilitation center.

Venture farther into the Great Barrier Reef to discover Mackay Reef, a remote marine playground best experienced from the privacy of a yacht. Beneath exceptionally clear waters, coral gardens shelter tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and an extraordinary variety of reef life. Dive or snorkel directly from the yacht to explore this remarkable underwater environment, or remain on deck and take in the striking blues of one of Australia's greatest natural treasures.

Continue to Undine Reef, set offshore from the spectacular Cape Tribulation coastline and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Turquoise waters reveal intricate coral formations and abundant marine life, creating exceptional conditions for snorkeling and diving. Explore beneath the surface alongside sea turtles and tropical reef fish, or enjoy the tranquility of this remote setting from the yacht, surrounded by little more than open water and pristine reef.

Cruise north to the Ribbon Reefs, a spectacular chain of coral reefs running along the outer Great Barrier Reef. Head beneath the surface at renowned dive sites such as Steve's Bommie, where colorful coral formations and fascinating macro life share the water with reef sharks, rays, trevally, and countless tropical fish.

As the light begins to fade, return on board for an evening surrounded by the open sea. Enjoy an aperitif on deck as the sun sets over the reef, followed by dinner prepared by your private chef and a night of stargazing far from the lights of the mainland.

Dedicate the day to exploring Ribbon Reef No. 10, with diving, fishing, and watersports all within easy reach of the yacht. Anglers can head toward the reef edge in search of marlin and other pelagic species or cast for giant trevally, while divers can choose from a variety of sites showcasing the remarkable biodiversity of the northern Great Barrier Reef.

After a full day on the water, settle in for a relaxed barbecue beneath the stars. As darkness falls, the yacht's underwater lights can attract passing marine life, creating one final opportunity to observe the reef after sunset.

Leave the outer reef behind for Lizard Island, a remote tropical retreat surrounded by national park and some of the Great Barrier Reef's most celebrated waters. Nearby dive sites, including the renowned Cod Hole, make the island particularly appealing to underwater enthusiasts, while its beaches and protected landscapes provide plenty to discover ashore. Spend the afternoon snorkeling, fishing, or exploring the island, or slow the pace with time at the resort and spa before returning on board.

Enjoy a full day on Lizard Island, one of the Great Barrier Reef's most secluded island escapes. Begin ashore with a hike to Cook's Lookout, where elevated views stretch across the island and surrounding reef, before returning to the coast for a leisurely lunch.

Spend the afternoon swimming or snorkeling in the sheltered waters of Watson's Bay before gathering on the beach as evening approaches. A sunset barbecue prepared by the crew provides a memorable final night surrounded by the natural beauty of Tropical North Queensland.

Return to Cairns, the principal gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the final destination of your yacht charter. If time allows before disembarkation, continue exploring Tropical North Queensland with a visit to the nearby Daintree Rainforest, or experience the region from a different perspective with a helicopter flight. Back in Cairns, waterfront restaurants, fresh local seafood, and a lively city atmosphere provide a fitting conclusion to eight days of diving, wildlife encounters, and remote reef exploration.