True North: Great Barrier Reef Ultimate Cruise

The day starts at Beaver Reef, where world-class snorkelling and diving reveal colourful coral gardens and abundant marine life. Later, Missionary Bay offers fishing and crabbing, or join a guided bushwalk to Hinchinbrook Island’s Nina Peak for sweeping views of untouched coastal wilderness. The day winds down with a cocktail on deck as the True North II glides through the iconic Hinchinbrook Passage toward Haycock Island.

Wake to golden light shimmering across Beaver Reef and begin the day with a morning dive or snorkel among colourful coral gardens and curious reef dwellers. After breakfast, cruise south past the rugged peaks of Hinchinbrook Island, keep an eye out for dugongs and sea eagles. Over lunch, steam toward Missionary Bay, where the adventure continues with afternoon fishing in winding mangrove creeks, home to mangrove jack and barramundi. Prefer to stay dry? Join a guided beach walk to spot wildlife and soak in the solitude of untouched coastline. As the sun dips behind misty hills, gather back on board for sunset drinks and stories of the day.

Spend an adventure filled day at Great Palm Island. Here you’ll meet the local community and learn about their art, bush tucker and history. Then, explore the spectacular coral gardens of Fantome Island, home to manta rays and turtles. Dive the Western side of Curacoa Island with it’s amazing soft coral and sponge gardens along the wall. For snorkelers, you’ll adventure to the North East corner of Great Palm Island where a WW2 wreck called old Catalina lies. Beachcombers can explore North East Bay, and fishers will have plenty of opportunity to search for squid.

Venture to John Brewer Reef, one of the Great Barrier Reef’s most beautiful spots. Snorkel or dive among the Museum of Underwater Art’s stunning installations by Jason deCaires Taylor, the first of their kind in the southern hemisphere. These works celebrate reef conservation, restoration, and connection to the local community. This extraordinary underwater experience offers a unique perspective on marine life, making it a truly once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Experienced divers can take on one of Australia’s most famous wreck dives at Yongala. Later, motor to Cape Bowling Green for an afternoon of fishing or crabbing before an overnight steam to Whitehaven Beach. The day blends adventure both above and below the water, with opportunities to connect with marine life or simply relax amid the natural beauty of the Queensland coast.

Wake up on the pristine sands of Whitehaven Beach and enjoy a morning stroll or snorkel in the turquoise waters of the Whitsundays. Golfers may head to Hamilton Island for a game, while others explore the island’s famous sights. In the afternoon, the True North II departs for Hook Island, offering another day of adventure and exploration on the water.

Anchor off Hook Island, a rugged gem of the Whitsundays. Spend the morning snorkelling or diving at stunning sites like Manta Ray Bay, surrounded by vibrant reef life and towering bommies. After lunch, fish, hike, or explore hidden bays by tender. For spectacular views, take a helicopter flight over Hill Inlet and Whitehaven Beach. The day concludes with sunset drinks on deck, enveloped by the beauty of island wilderness. 

Explore the coral-lined beaches of Percy Island, heading ashore for bushwalking, diving, snorkelling, or fishing. Spend the afternoon enjoying drinks on the beach before watching the sunset from the deck of the True North II.

Wake to the serene beauty of Northwest Island, a remote coral cay within the Capricornia Cays National Park. Snorkel over colourful coral gardens, dive with reef sharks and turtles, or simply enjoy the solitude of this pristine marine sanctuary. After lunch, set course for Masthead Island, another picture-perfect cay fringed by reef. Spend the afternoon exploring the shallows, wandering white sand beaches, or casting a line with the guides, before raising a glass on deck at sunset.

Begin the day exploring the crystal-clear waters of Lady Elliot Island, a haven for manta rays, turtles and vibrant coral gardens. Dive or snorkel straight from the beach or relax ashore and soak in the serenity. In the afternoon, we venture to the Bunker Group – a remote cluster of coral cays perfect for fishing, snorkelling or beachcombing. Finish the day with sunset drinks and reflections on another unforgettable reef adventure.

Spend the morning on Fraser Island (K’gari) – the world’s largest sand island and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Venture ashore to discover crystal-clear freshwater lakes, ancient rainforest growing from sand, and sweeping beaches that stretch to the horizon. In the afternoon, we cruise through the Great Sandy Strait, a maze of turquoise channels and sheltered bays flanked by mangroves and golden sandbanks. Keep your eyes peeled for dugongs, turtles and dolphins as we wind our way south.

Known for its spectacular beaches and steep dunes, Moreton Island is truly a slice of paradise. Here you’ll be able to dive Flinders Reef, fish, explore the sand dune beaches or see the bird’s eye view from the helicopter. Finish another spectacular day with drinks on the beach before heading off on our final voyage to Brisbane.

Arrive in Brisbane in the morning, disembarking with memories of reef and island wilderness that will last a lifetime. Over 14 days, you’ve experienced the Great Barrier Reef, pristine islands, rainforest, and unique wildlife, all from the comfort and luxury of True North II.

Your tour comes to an end today, but if you are itching to explore more amazing sights throughout Australia, we can customise your holiday to include more days or additional destinations. Our trusted travel specialists can book transfers to your onward flight, and even assist in booking these flights for you. Our team can't wait to help you design your ultimate getaway!