Top Australia On the Water - page 7

Take in the views of Darwin Harbour during a sunset cruise aboard the “Charles Darwin,” a deluxe 3-level catamaran. Sail past the Esplanade, Larrakeyah Barracks, Cullen Bay, and Fannie Bay, all while seated in air-conditioned comfort or outside on the sundeck. Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner featuring fresh seafood and local produce as you watch the sun set over the Top End.

Ending a day out means deciding between a sunset drink and sorting dinner, then getting between the two. This cruise combines them, gliding along the Thomson River with stories of local wildlife and Indigenous culture as you settle in on the top deck. As night falls, dock at Smithy's Outback Dinner and Show for a two-course camp-oven dinner and live entertainment.

Discover the underwater treasures of the Great Barrier Reef on this full-day catamaran cruise to Michaelmas Cay from Cairns. Snorkel straight from the white sandy beaches to swim among amazing coral gardens and get an up-close encounter with tropical marine life. Go deeper with an optional introductory scuba dive, or admire the reef on a semi-submarine boat tour. Chat with marine biologists to learn about the thousands of migratory seabirds that nest on the protected cay, and refuel with a buffet lunch featuring fresh seafood.

Hop aboard a catamaran to cruise the coast around Airlie Beach and Pioneer Bay at sunset—when it’s at its most atmospheric and romantic. Instead of trying to find a viewing spot on land, enjoy a vantage point only achievable by boat, right out on the water. Along the way, enjoy an included glass of sparkling wine, soak up the scenery, and snap photos of the beautiful Whitsunday coastline.

As the sun sets behind the mountains of Mossman Gorge, enjoy a drink as well as some complimentary cheese and nibbles on the foredeck of Indigo 2. Indigo 2 is the only vessel that runs a two-hour sunset cruise, giving you plenty of time to soak up the stunning twilight atmosphere. With a maximum capacity of 12 guests, Indigo 2 provides a fantastic opportunity for our guests to experience a Port Douglas sunset cruise, but without the crowds.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Kuranda Rainforest, and observe native Australian wildlife, on a full-day tour from Cairns. Enjoy multiple top experiences in one time-saving trip, including the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, the Kuranda Scenic Railway, and the Rainforestation Nature Park. Round-trip transit from Cairns aboard an air-conditioned vehicle makes getting there, and experiencing it all, easy and hassle-free.

Combine a reef and rainforest experience on this day trip to Green Island. Located just 45 minutes from Cairns via catamaran, this island is home to over 120 plant species and colorful birds. While there, take a self-guided walk to discover some of the island's flora. Day visitor facilities include a pool bar, restaurant, and shops. Food is also available for purchase.

Spend half a day kayaking in the sea, and get the chance to snorkel around Ningaloo Reef's Bundegi Sanctuary Zone, with this small-group excursion, which includes transfers from area hotels. You'll likely spot all sorts of marine life, from juvenile turtles to reef sharks. You'll then continue to a special snorkeling area for snorkeling—you may even spot green turtles.

Don't just see the Whales, EXPERIENCE THEM! Our experience is like no other! Onboard our new state-of-the-art vessel, we are able to get you to the whales a lot quicker, meaning more time watching whales and less time travelling! With 360 degree views from all positions onboard, and limited tickets onboard, you'll always have prime views and never have to battle crowds. Our professional crew onboard also offer great commentary of the whales through the surround speakers. We offer the best experience, and the best whale views, unobstructed by crowds onboard the SAFEST & FASTEST whale watching vessel. Awarded QUEENSLAND'S NEW TOURISM BUSINESS OF THE YEAR!

Save time spent waiting in line by pre-booking this SeaLink Rottnest Island round-trip ferry ticket from Fremantle. Choose from various morning and afternoon departure times to best organize your day on Rottnest Island, a protected nature reserve affectionately called “Rotto” by locals. Spend the day on the island lounging on white-sand beaches, hiking, quokka-spotting, and more.

Discover the coastal charm of Perth and Fremantle on this diverse half-day sightseeing tour. Take in views of the cityscape at Kings Park Botanic Gardens, and then get a closer look at cultural landmarks on a commentated coach tour. Head to the coast to admire the famous sandy stretches of Cottesloe Beach and soak up the seaport ambiance of historic Fremantle.

Swimming with wild dolphins is a must for many travelers when visiting Perth or wider Western Australia. However, knowing the right places to visit can be confusing. This full-day tour takes you to the best spots in Rockingham—around 40 minutes from the city—to see pods of dolphins thrive in their natural habitat. Snorkel alongside them, always from a respectful distance, or hop back onto the boat to watch them from the deck.

Reaching Ningaloo's best snorkeling spots means having a boat, gear, and a sense of where the marine life gathers. This small-group day tour supplies all three, setting off from Exmouth to paddle the clear waters of Ningaloo Marine Park. Snorkel over the coral to spot turtles, rays, reef sharks, and reef fish, with the chance of a dolphin or dugong. Morning tea, lunch, gear, and transport are included.

Short on time but want to experience the best of the Top End? This fast-paced adventure packs multiple highlights into one seamless day. Combine helicopter flights, airboat rides, river cruising, and guided overland travel to see the region from every angle. Spot crocodiles and native birdlife across Litchfield National Park’s floodplains, then cool off with a swim in a designated crocodile-safe pool.

Starting from Darwin, this Adelaide River Adventure includes a scenic drive to the Adelaide River wetlands, where you’ll learn about the wildlife species that call these waterways home—including the saltwater crocodile. You’ll then go on a Jumping Crocodile Cruise to see these crocs in their natural habitat. A local Indigenous owned and operated venture, the cruise is a great way to support the Traditional Custodians of this Country.

Katherine Gorge sits a few hours inland from Darwin, so seeing it in a day means a long drive plus a way onto the water once you arrive. Run out to Nitmiluk National Park by coach, then cruise between the sandstone cliffs with everything arranged for you. Look for rock art on the walls and crocodiles on the banks, and cool off in the pool below Edith Falls when conditions allow.

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.

Tackle the waves during a morning or afternoon surf lesson at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast. First, receive a safety briefing and basic instruction on the sand before heading into the water. You'll be provided with a long-sleeve rash shirt or a wetsuit (depending on the season) and a soft beginner surfboard. You’ll be able to continue practicing your technique on your own after catching some initial waves.

Take to the Noosa Everglades, just minutes from the heart of town, for an exciting kayak tour to spot stingrays in their natural habitat. Explore the UNESCO-listed waterways to learn all about the local stingrays, explore hidden creeks, and swim in pristine waters led by an experienced local guide, a biologist, whose enthusiasm for wildlife will push you to spot as many species as you can. This family-friendly experience requires no prior kayaking experience and includes a picnic on secluded shores.

Discover a hidden gem on Phillip Island, with this cruise around the cliffs, caves, and historic sites of Cape Woolamai. Listen to informative commentary from the captain as you keep your eyes peeled for sightings of marine life such as dolphins, Australian fur seals, and seabirds. Snap photos of the dramatic coastal scenery and turquoise waters during this family-friendly cruise, which includes light refreshments and activities for children.

Zip through the waters of the Gold Coast off Main Beach on this group boat trip. This lasts for around forty thrilling minutes, where you’ll have the chance to experience spins, slides, and other fancy jet boat moves. You’ll see Sea World, The Imperial Hotel Gold Coast, and Marina Mirage from the water, and hopefully see wallabies and dolphins too.

Set sail for the Whitsundays on-board an authentic 62-ft gaff rigged schooner and spend the day swimming and snorkeling around the islands. Admire the famous powder-white sands of Whitehaven beach, jump off to take in the views from Hill Inlet and dine on a delicious lunch on-board. Finish your adventure snorkeling amid vibrant corals and schools of brightly colored fish and keep a look out for unique varieties like parrot fish and humphead wrasse.

Get your adrenaline pumping on a Cairns jet boat ride. As you zoom across the waters of Trinity Inlet, hang on tight while the experienced boat captain performs spins and other maneuvers to make sure you stay cool in the splashing water. Admire landmarks from the boat, and keep your eyes open for marine life—you may get lucky and spot a crocodile. It’s a great way to spend 35 minutes in Queensland’s tropical heat.

Escape crowded reef sites on this small-group snorkeling tour to the outer Great Barrier Reef, perfect for travelers who want a more personal, wildlife-focused experience. With a capped number of participants and one instructor for every six guests, you receive attentive guidance and support in the water. Spend the day exploring remote reef locations, where fewer visitors mean clearer views of vibrant coral and diverse marine life.