Top Australia & the Pacific On the Water - page 8

Discover the natural beauty and fresh seafood of the Marlborough Sounds on an afternoon cruise from Picton. Travel by luxury catamaran through the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound. Taste fresh, locally farmed salmon and Greenshell mussels on board, pairing them with a glass of local wine if you like (own expense). Learn about marine farming in the sounds, and admire the views of otherwise hard-to-reach places.

Spend around half the day exploring the coast of Tasmania’s scenic Freycinet National Park on this easygoing kayaking tour. If you’re not an experienced kayaker, don’t worry – all kayaking gear is provided free of charge and participants receive personalized coaching and guidance from the guides on this small group tour. Get striking landscape photos of Freycinet’s forests and mountains from the sea and even disembark at one of the park’s isolated beaches.

Spend half a day among the thriving wildlife of the outer Marlborough Sounds on a small-boat wildlife tour from Picton. Spot rare sea birds like penguins and shags, plus a couple of species of dolphin, in Queen Charlotte Sound. Set foot on Motuara Island, a bird sanctuary Island that holds significance to colonial New Zealand history. Your guides are deeply knowledgeable about this area, so make the most of them and ask plenty of questions.

Spotting dolphins from land is exciting, but kayaking alongside them is a truly special experience. From Byron Bay, journey along the waters of Cape Byron Marine Park as your local guide leads you to locations that maximize your chances of seeing bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat—you might even catch a glimpse of whales and sea turtles, too.

Maximize your chances of seeing humpback whales by joining this tour from Byron Bay, led by a marine biologist. Head for areas that the whales are known to pass through as they migrate in winter (June–November), watch them as they majestically breach, and listen to them sing by using an underwater hydrophone.

Spot Akaroa Harbour’s rare Hector’s dolphins on a catamaran wildlife cruise that includes fresh-baked cookies and a drink. The 2-hull catamaran offers more stability and deck space than a single-hull boat, ensuring a comfortable spot as you scan for fur seals, white-flippered penguins, and other wildlife. Dolphin-spotting dogs are on board. Equipped with dog life-vests and a keen ear, they’ll help make your dolphin encounter an unforgettable experience.

This full-day adventure includes a “funyak” (inflatable canoe) and jet boat ride on the Dart River, within Mt. Aspiring National Park. Take the complimentary return coach from Queenstown or make your own way to Glenorchy. From there, speed upriver on a thrilling jet boat before climbing aboard an easy-to-handle funyak. No previous experience is necessary and you paddle in a flotilla behind your guide.

Reaching Moreton Island's clear waters and shipwrecks means a boat trip from Brisbane, easier to book as one package than pieced together. Take an all-inclusive day tour that handles the journey, then snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks with a guide. Relax on the beach and break for a buffet lunch, watching for turtles, dolphins, and dugongs, which are often spotted in these waters.

Airlie Beach is a popular basecamp for visiting the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef, but there are plenty of opportunities for adventure activities without leaving town. This jet boat ride will get your adrenaline soaring, as you zoom past the glitzy marina; perform daring turns, drifts and power stops; and enjoy magnificent views of the Whitsundays as you cruise around Pioneer Bay.

The world’s most beautiful harbour deserves the very best cruise to experience it. Choose from two spectacular options, the Harbour Experience aboard our premier sightseeing fleet or, enhance your cruise with the Premium Harbour Experience to enjoy a house beverage of your choice and a Cheese & Charcuterie board to share, as you cruise by the majestic Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison and other top sights on this 1.5 hour cruise. Listen to commentary straight from your smartphone, relax into your seat or choose to venture up to the upper open-air deck as you marvel at the beauty of Sydney Harbour.

Cruise ship passengers who want an active adventure while on land will love this white-water rafting expedition from Napier. The rapids are an easy class II, so even first-timers and older kids can join in. Admire the views of the native bush, listen to birdsong, and even go for a swim in the gentle river if you like. Photos of your trip will be provided after.

The Great Barrier Reef is now one of Australia’s most popular attractions, but for tens of thousands of years before it was under the protection of the Traditional Custodians. This snorkeling and sightseeing tour led by Indigenous Sea Rangers gives travelers a chance to see the reef through their eyes and hear the Creation Story, as well as gaining an up close and personal perspective of this natural wonder.

If you want to experience the outer Great Barrier Reef away from the crowds, this full-day sailing trip is ideal. You’ll sail to Upolu Reef and a sheltered lagoon, where you can snorkel amid a vast array of coral, tropical fish, turtles, clams, and more. A guided snorkel is included if you’d like some extra support in the sea. This Eco Certified tour reflects a sustainable approach and respect for the environment.

Cruise the scenic bays of Lake Taupō to the Māori Rock Carvings during this boat tour. Listen to informative commentary about the ecology, volcanology, and cultural history of the area. Admire the impressive views of the snowy volcanoes of UNESCO World Heritage–listed Tongariro National Park. See the Māori Rock Carvings depicting the legends of the local Ngāti Tūwharetoa tribe. Choose from morning or afternoon departures to suit your schedule.

Certified divers seeking guided diving experiences appropriate to their level will enjoy this package that includes two morning dives. Receive personalized attention from your instructor on a small-group tour. Your guide will take you to two exceptional dive locations off Bora Bora where you will see rays, sharks, and a variety of other tropical sea life.

Using a sea scooter while snorkeling will allow you to cover more distance easily, so you can see even more marine life. On this snorkeling tour you will use sea scooters to explore some underwater sites off Moorea. Your guide will tell you about the marine life of French Polynesia, and take you to the best spots while keeping you safe in the sea.

Experience Sydney Harbour in a unique way: during a 30-minute wild ride on 'Thunder', a jet boat capable of slides, twists, wave riding, and fishtails. Enjoy some sightseeing between tricks with views of Luna Park, Taronga Zoo, Sydney Opera House, Rose Bay and other famous Harbour landmarks.

Hop on a Jet Ski tour of the Whitsunday Islands from Airlie Beach for an unforgettable experience of this tropical paradise. The multiple tour options suit beginner and experienced riders, with tandem riding possible on some tours. Zip past picturesque coves and beaches as you learn about the region from your guide and admire the gorgeous views. Receive personalized attention on small-group tours.

Marvel over colorful corals and schools of tropical fish on this half-day tour of the Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas. Set sail for a thrilling cruise around the Low Isles by luxury catamaran, including a delicious afternoon tea served onboard. Enjoy free time to swim or snorkel at the beaches or join a guided snorkeling tour or glass-bottom boat cruise, and learn more about the reef’s myriad sea life. This cruise is limited to 33 passengers and includes hotel pick-up and snorkeling gear.

Spend a full day exploring some lesser-visited spots around the Whitsunday Islands on this unforgettable tour. On board the comfortable Tongarra you’ll be taken to Langford Island. Snorkel in the clear, warm waters off white-sand beaches and be amazed by the beautiful colors and sea life of the fringing reef. Enjoy exploring Langford Sandbar and end the day with a gorgeous sunset as you return to Airlie Beach.

Set off from Dunsborough on a whale-watching tour to look for humpback whales, southern right whales, and elusive blue whales, who cruise through these Australian waters on their northern and southern migrations, depending on the time of year. Learn more from your marine biologist guide. The purpose-built boat features indoor seating plus a spacious deck, and you can enjoy drinks and cookies. Tours depart daily between September and early December.

Watch the dreamy sunset over the Whitsunday islands on this evening cruise, sailing on-board a traditional gaff-rigged schooner. Sip a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and tuck into light snacks as you glide around Pioneer Bay, and experience the beauty of Airlie Beach at twilight as you drift back to shore.

Embark on a 4.5 hour Cruise and Island tour in the scenic Bay of Islands, where nature's wonders and cultural exploration await. Cruising through the islands, keeping an eye out for marine wildlife and native seabirds while our knowledgeable guides offer insights into the history, ecology, and Maori culture. Stopping at Roberton Island, a pristine paradise surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush greenery. Take a short walk to the lookout point over the twin lagoons to enjoy the panoramic views of the Bay. Visit the famous "Hole in the Rock," a breathtaking natural formation showcasing the Bay's unique geology and the Cape Brett Lighthouse Our second island stop provides the opportunity to explore secluded bays, make use of the snorkelling gear provided, have a swim or simply relax. Bring a picnic or contact Island Getaway directly to pre-order a packed lunch The perfect blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural discovery, making it a must-do experience in the Bay of Islands!

Cruise deep into the tranquil mirrored waterways of Australias’ only Everglades. This spectacular network of wetlands showcases ancient landscapes and offers spectacular photo opportunities. Australia’s Everglades are found in the Northern end of the Noosa River system, perched within the sand dunes of the Cooloola National Park. An untouched, pristine wilderness area which is home to over 44% of Australia’s bird species. Pure fresh water pulses out of the Cooloola Sandmass and filters through the tea tree infused ecosystem into this unique river system – creating the most spectacular reflections you will ever see…. Choose to experience the Everglades in the comfort of our specially designed eco boats (OR) Cruise to our canoe launch area – grab a paddle, jump in a canoe and experience one of the best canoeing adventures in Australia (5km canoe leg to Harry’s hut – moderate fitness level required). You have the choice…….. Give us a day and we will give them memories for life!