Whitsunday Islands, Australia - Australia & New Zealand Cruises

This sprinkling of 74 verdant isles, fringed by white sands and turquoise skies present a vision of immense beauty beside the vast natural wonder that is the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you choose to bush walk, scuba dive or sail, there are a myriad of ways to experience the Whitsundays.

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Excursions

  • The Great Barrier Reef

    Enjoy a once in a lifetime experience at the world's largest reef system, the Great Barrier Reef.

    The Great Barrier Reef

    The Great Barrier Reef is truly one of the great wonders of the natural world. This flourishing living reef was formed millions of years ago and is now home to hundreds of different types of colourful fish and coral.

    Join your air-conditioned luxury catamaran for a scenic transfer to the Knuckle Reef pontoon. You will have approximately three hours to indulge in a variety of activities at the reef. The submerged paradise can be explored during a ride in the semi-submersible or from the pontoon’s underwater viewing chamber - these options allow you to spot the tropical fish and intricate coral gardens without getting wet. For those wishing to get closer to the world’s richest marine habitat there will be plenty of time to swim and snorkel or simply relax on the shaded sun-deck and admire the views.

    During your visit, you’ll enjoy a buffet luncheon accompanied by tea or coffee.


    ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
    You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

    BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
    For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

    LIABILITY
    Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

    TRAVEL INSURANCE
    Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

    This excursion will operate by catamaran. The fare includes a fee which goes towards the management and protection of the reef. There are approximately ten steps to access the catamaran, semi-submersible and viewing chamber. Please bring a towel, sunscreen and swimwear. Do not carry valuables as there are no lockers available. There is a no smoking policy on the catamaran and reef pontoon. The tour operates in all weather and cancellation is at the discretion of the Harbour Master. Those prone to seasickness should take the necessary precautions. Independent suppliers at the pontoon offer watersports such as scuba and guided snorkel tours, these are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard and are payable direct. Qualified scuba divers require proof of certification. Please remember to carry a credit card or local currency for any additional purchases.

    Tour code

    HAP_002

    Features

    • Activity low

      Activity Level: Low

    • Meal included

      Meal Included

    • Refreshments included

      Refreshments included

    Duration

    7½ hours

  • Daydream Island Resort & Spa

    Spend an idyllic day on a luxury island resort, with its beautiful beaches, complimentary activities and delicious food.

    Daydream Island Resort & Spa

    Take a short cruise to Daydream Island Resort and Spa and indulge in a true island experience. You will have approximately five hours to do as little or as much as you want. Swim, snorkel, sunbath, relax, take a spa tour or enjoy a leisurely rainforest walk.

    The island has a unique outdoor lagoon which contains a living reef of over 50 varieties of fish, rays, baby sharks and coral species collected under special license from the Barrier Reef. There are experienced marine biologists available to guide you through this amazing and very unique educational experience.

    For those who crave a bit more adventure there will be scheduled complimentary activities available including a catamaran cruise, kayaking, tennis, beach volley ball and aqua aerobics. An activity list will be provided on arrival.

    During the day a sumptuous barbeque buffet luncheon will be served at the Fishbowl Bar and Tavern.


    ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
    You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

    BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
    For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

    LIABILITY
    Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

    TRAVEL INSURANCE
    Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

    This excursion will operate by catamaran. Walking is at guests' own discretion. The terrain includes sand and some uneven surfaces. Watershoes are recommended if swimming or snorkelling as there may be coral fragments or stones underfoot. Snorkelling equipment is available to hire. Guests are advised that the scheduled activities are subject to availability, so booking on arrival is recommended. These activities are supplied by independent suppliers and are not connected to Cunard. Guests are reminded to bring a towel, hat, swimwear, sunscreen and local currency.

    Tour code

    HAP_009

    Features

    • Activity medium

      Activity Level: Medium

    • Meal included

      Meal Included

    • Family

      Especially suitable for families

    Duration

    6 hours

  • Whitsundays Eco Adventure

    Enjoy this exhilarating RIB ride through the beautiful Whitsunday Islands with its stunning views and colourful marine life.

    Whitsundays Eco Adventure

    Boarding your high speed RIB, depart Airlie Beach for an exhilarating ride into the spectacular Marine and Island National Parks of the Whitsundays.

    After a short cruise through the islands, a snorkelling stop will be made at either Black Island or Langford Sandspit to enable you to observe the vibrant marine life, which swim around the coral reef. Your Captain will be available to answer any questions on this amazing natural wonder. Refreshments of soft drinks will be served during the stop.

    The next stop is on the northern shores of Hook Island. The rugged island is mostly national park which boasts beautiful beaches, breathtaking lookouts, excellent snorkelling and walking tracks. Enjoy a stroll along one of the pristine beaches or snorkel with hundreds of tropical fish as you explore the underwater world of one of the Whitsundays many coral reefs. This World Heritage Listed area is famous for turtle spotting, swimming and snorkelling.


    ACTIVITY EXCURSIONS
    You and all those in your party should be aware that, in undertaking activity excursions, you will be involved in a degree of physical exertion and/or activity such as hiking, biking, snorkelling, kayaking, diving etc. By booking the excursion you confirm that you and all those in your party are in good physical and mental condition, with no history of conditions such as seizures, dizziness, fainting, heart condition, respiratory problems or back/neck problems (by way of example only). You should also ensure that no one in your party is taking medicine that carries a warning about impairment of physical or mental abilities. If you are pregnant this type of excursion may not be appropriate for you. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fit and well enough to take part in the activities booked and you are reminded to take care for your own safety. Because of the risks associated with activity excursions, you may be asked by the excursion provider to sign a document which may affect or limit the excursion provider’s liability. Comfortable flat walking shoes are recommended.

    BEACH/WATER RELATED EXCURSIONS
    For any excursion involving water, guests are reminded to exercise particular care. Alcohol and eating a full meal should be avoided before swimming. If buoyancy aids are provided for an activity they must be worn at all times. You should bear in mind that the sea is unpredictable. Lifeguards are unlikely to be present and there may not be a flag system to indicate whether or not it is safe to go in the water. In addition, beach activities may not be supervised or accompanied and so you should take care to satisfy yourself as to the safety of the beach and/or the sea at the time of your excursion. Please exercise caution when entering the sea as the seabed and aquatic environment is capable of springing surprises and we have not inspected the beach or seabed for its safety. Children must be supervised by you at all times near water. All activities on the beach, water and in the sea are undertaken at your own risk. You’ll need to take swimwear, a towel, sunscreen and flat shoes that can be worn in the water.

    LIABILITY
    Cunard will arrange for the excursions to be performed by the relevant excursion provider. Cunard does not provide or supply the excursion services. Cunard will exercise reasonable care and skill in the selection of the excursion provider, but will not in any circumstances have a greater liability than the excursion supplier and Cunard shall not be responsible for the negligent acts/omissions of the excursion supplier. Please note that in relation to all excursions Cunard is not responsible or liable for any loss, damage, or injury sustained by you unless such loss, damage or injury arises out of a breach of legal duty of Cunard.

    TRAVEL INSURANCE
    Before booking any activity excursions it is essential that you ensure your travel insurance extends to cover the specified activity. It is your responsibility to obtain adequate insurance.

    This excursion will operate by semi rigid inflatable vessel (RIB). Snorkelling equipment is provided. Swimming and snorkelling are at guests' own discretion. It is advisable to leave any valuables onboard the ship. The tour is not suitable for guests who have conditions which may be affected by the bumpy ride. Toilets are eco-friendly so standards may vary. Guests are reminded to bring swimwear, towel, hat, sunscreen and local currency.

    Tour code

    HAP_008

    Features

    • Activity medium

      Activity Level: Medium

    • Refreshments included

      Refreshments included

    Duration

    4 hours

  • Sailing The Whitsundays

    Fully appreciate the beauty of the Whitsunday Islands from the sea as you sit back and relax on a catamaran.

    Sailing The Whitsundays

    Sail the magnificent Whitsunday Islands aboard a sailing catamaran and experience the freedom as the wind blows through your hair. As you skim through the waters dotted with lush green islands, relax on deck and take in the fresh sea air. The unique blend of sun, sea and stunning scenery makes this tour a revitalising way to experience the Whitsundays.

    After an invigorating cruise, you will return to your ship with fond memories of these picturesque islands. During your tour, refreshments of tea, coffee and biscuits will be served.


    This excursion will operate by catamaran. There may be some rolling and pitching due to natural sea conditions. This excursion is not suitable for guests with limited mobility. All guests should wear soft-soled, non-slip shoes. Please remember your hat and sunscreen. The excursion operates in all weather.

    Tour code

    HAP_005

    Features

    • Activity low

      Activity Level: Low

    • Refreshments included

      Refreshments included

    Duration

    3 hours

  • Airle Beach - Sights & History

    Discover the history of this charming beachside town as you absorb the sights.

    Airle Beach - Sights & History

    Travel back in time, and relive the days in which the sugar industry was the lifeblood of this growing region.

    Boarding your coach at Abel Point Marina, you will travel through Cannonvale on your way to the Proserpine Historical Museum. You will see exhibits highlighting some of the history of the Whitsunday regions sugar and cattle industries. The collection showcases a ‘Digger’, a vintage steam locomotive that was once used in the sugar fields during World War I, before ceasing operation in the sugar cane fields in the mid 1920’s.

    Departing the Museum, you will take in some of the sights of this developing area. A brief stop is given at Shute Harbour Lookout to enable you to enjoy the beautiful panoramic views over the harbour and the Whitsunday Islands. Your tour concludes at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, where refreshments of tea or coffee and a slice of cake will be served overlooking the water.

    Returning to the quayside via shuttle bus, you may wish to take some time to explore some of the many boutique clothing shops and cafés that line the streets of this bustling little town.


    This excursion will operate by catamaran. The Proserpine Museum is fully wheelchair accessible. 30 minutes is allocated at the Whitsunday Sailing Club for morning tea, however guests can depart the Sailing Club at their own convenience. Guests are responsible for making their own way back to the quayside, via the shuttle bus, which stops directly outside the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

    Tour code

    HAP_006

    Features

    • Activity low

      Activity Level: Low

    • Refreshments included

      Refreshments included

    Duration

    3 hours

Our Ships

Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth

QUEEN ELIZABETH is our newest luxury liner, named in 2010 by Her Majesty the Queen. Recalling the rich heritage of the first Cunarder to bear the name, her elegance and modern features have won her many accolades and made her a firm favourite with her passengers. Discover more about Queen Elizabeth including her unique facilities and explore her decks through the links below.

Queen Mary 2

Queen Mary 2

QUEEN MARY 2 is Cunard’s flagship and the most magnificent ocean liner ever built. A Transatlantic Crossing to or from New York on this incredible ship is a holiday like no other but her cruises from Southampton are also very special.  She offers so much space on board and such an array of state of the art facilities including a 3D Cinema, planetarium and a superb spa.

Queen Victoria

Queen Victoria

QUEEN VICTORIA is known for her elegance and her graceful splendour. Her unique facilities are amongst the most modern you will find and yet she has a special ambience so evocative of great liners past. With luxurious marbles, woods and rich fabrics she exudes elegance and is adored by her crew and passengers alike.

Featured Cruise

2012 World Voyage

2012 World Voyage

Departing on Thu 10 Jan from Southampton for 105 nights.

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