Activity 1: Ballooning
Atherton Tablelands near Cairns has the perfect climate for hot air balloon rides offering spectacular scenery and it is an unforgettable experience to anyone going on a ride for the first time.
See the spectacular balloon inflation display and some mornings there are so many colourful balloons. The winds are calmest at dawn, which is why the launch is done as early as possible.
Rise up and fly over the scenic Atherton Tablelands with its rainforest fringed mountains and tranquil country landscapes. The balloon gently floats above the tips of blue gums and paper bark trees, with the wide open spaces of the Tablelands below. The fantastic 360 degree views will make these memories last a lifetime .
All the pilots are very experienced and trained to Australia's highest standards, so there is no need to worry. Enjoy the freedom while the pilot makes sure the ride is as gentle as possible. Keep an eye out for kangaroos and some of Australia's local wildlife. Binoculars are ok on board to capture sightings of local birdlife. Come back to earth then continue the fun by helping the guides pack up.
Activity 2: Quicksilver
Experience the Great Barrier Reef with Quicksilver, one of Australia's most awarded reef cruise companies.
Clients board and cruise on a high-speed air-conditioned wavepiercing catamaran with great comfort. Quicksilver take clients daily to their luxury and spacious floating platform located in the middle of beautiful Agincourt Reef, a jewel-like ribbon reef on the very outer edge.
Agincourt Reef is located at the very outer edge of the Barrier Reef where special reefs known as ‘ribbons’ run parallel to the Continental Shelf. These ribbon reefs are recognised as the most pristine eco-systems in the reef’s environment. Clear water provides the best possible underwater visibility, encourages rich coral growth and supports spectacular marine life.
Quicksilver provides a great day for both swimmers and non-swimmers as the spacious platform offers many activities such as unlimited snorkelling, semi-submersible, underwater observatory, glass bottom boat and much more.
Extra activities include:
Tourism Cairns works with family and group discounts. Please email us for a quote.
| Time | Description |
|---|---|
| 3:50 – 4:15 | Pick up from Cairns or Port Douglas accommodation |
| 04:15 | Journey to Atherton Tablelands starts |
| Travel time is approx 1 hour | |
| 05:15 | Bus arrives at take off locations and balloons get ready to fly |
| 06:00 | First balloon flight takes off /Other passengers to do a balloon chase |
| 07:00 | Passengers have a chance to have a look at the photos of the day and purchase them |
| 07:30 | Bus departs Mareeba to Port Douglas |
| 09:00-09:45 | Drop off at the Reef Marina, Port Douglas and check in at the Quicksilver desk |
| 10:00 | Boat departs Reef Marina |
| Travel time is 1 hour & 30 minutes direct from Port Douglas on a fast stable motor catamaran | |
| 11:30 | Boat arrives at Quicksilver pontoon |
| Enjoy around 3 hours & 30 minutes exploring the outer reef | |
| 15:00 | Boat departs Quicksilver pontoon |
| 16:30 | Boat arrives back in Port Douglas |
| 16:35 | Coach transfer back to accommodation |
Please Note:
Important Note:Ballooning is not suitable if you are pregnant.
If your flight cancels due to poor weather, you are entitled to a full refund.
You must be able to climb in and out of the basket unaided as this is a CASA safety regulation.
All Divers: In accordance with Australian Diving law, ALL DIVERS must complete a medical questionnaire on board, before diving.
Flying after Diving: If only one dive is undertaken then a minimum of 12 hours is recommended before flying. If more than one dive is conducted in the day, an interval of 24 hours is recommended.This is not applicable for low helicopter flights over the reef.
Introductory Divers - NOTE: Certain medical conditions may prevent you from diving, (e.g. Asthma, Heart Disease), please contact our office. Min. age to dive is 12 years.
Age: Adult age: 15 yrs + / Child age: 4-14 years inclusive.
Levies:Total price INCLUDES a levy of $30.00 per person for civil aviation and $6.50 per person for the Reef Tax.
Booking fees: Tourism Cairns do not charge any booking fees.
Deposit and final payment: At Tourism Cairns clients are required to pay a deposit only at the time of booking. Final payment is to be completed 48 hours prior to departure or on the day of travel, depending on each tour operator's policy.
Cancellation by the traveller: If the tour is cancelled by the client up to 7 days prior to departure, a full refund is applicable. If the tour is cancelled by the client 7 days prior to departure, the deposit amount might be retained. If the tour is cancelled by the client 48 hours prior to departure, 100% cancellation fee may apply.
Booking amendments: If the date of a tour needs to be changed, Tourism Cairns must be notified in writing by the client up to 48 hours prior to the tour date.