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Combine the excitement of a cargo ship voyage between Cairns and Cape York with the adventure of a Cape York Safari. In a style reminiscent of bygone coastal steamers, experience the colour and serenity of a Barrier Reef voyage, the magic of the Daintree, the magnificent isolation of the Peninsula wilderness and the diverse cultures of the Cape and Torres Straits. Our overnight stays quite often reflect the unique nature of the sparsely inhabited regions in which we travel: Forest shrouded resorts and lodges, hotels and motels to "No Frill" cattle station cabins and cabin tent accommodation along the track where no alternatives exist. All are clean and comfortable, the hospitality genuine, open and friendly, and the cuisine generous and appetizing.

Legend; B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

DAY 1 CAIRNS – COOKTOWN (LD)

After an early morning pick up at your Cairns accommodation or Caravan Park, the 4wd will head North and travel via the beautiful coastal road until we cross the Daintree River and enter the majestic expanse of the World Heritage listed Daintree/Cape Tribulation Rainforest. Over the jungle shrouded slopes of the controversial Bloomfield track to Cooktown. A chance to shop for souvenirs in original colonial era shops. Overnight accommodation is at the Sea View Motel with ensuite facilities.

Assured of a unique place in the rich fabric of Australian history, Cooktown provides a visit of interest and excitement. Visit Cook's landing place, Grassy Hill Lookout and the century old cemetery. Mid morning we travel via Battle Camp Ranges and Old Laura Station to Lakefield National Park. An opportunity to safely view crocodiles in their natural habitat. Experience living outback history as we approach Musgrave pioneer telegraph station, which is over 100 years old. Overnight accommodation tonight is at Old Musgrave Station with share bathroom facilities.

DAY 3 OLD MUSGRAVE TELEGRAPH STATION - COEN - ARCHER RIVER - WEIPA (BLD)

Via historic Coen we travel North by West through Mungkan Kaanju National Park and across Piccaninny Plains and boundless Savannah to the bauxite-mining town of Weipa on the Gulf of Carpentaria. A veritable "Oasis in the wilderness" and providing further contrast to your experience of this last frontier. Tonight's accommodation is at the Heritage Resort which has ensuite facilities

In the cool of early morning, a fascinating Weipa Mine Tour (own cost). A veritable "Oasis in the Wilderness" and providing further contrast to your experience of this last frontier. South by East through huge cattle runs to arrive at the Wenlock River. Time for a guided nature walk on established trails along this lightly forested waterway. Tonight's accommodation is at Moreton Station in "Tent Cabins" which have shared bathroom facilities. The "Tent Cabins" are twin share fully screened tents with beds, linen, lights, gas powered hot showers, flushing toilets and an outdoor covered dining area.

DAY 5 FRUITBAT FALLS - JARDINE RIVER - PUNSAND BAY (BLD)

Civilization far behind and we are really in four wheel drive country as we traverse streams, rocky crossings and the ever changing wilderness landscape of Zamias and eucalyptus forests to reach today's lunch destination. Then onto picturesque Fruitbat Falls on the Elliot River. Time to swim and explore or photograph the enchanting rock pools, and waterfall of this unique spot. This afternoon we cross the Jardine River, followed by a short visit to Bamaga Aboriginal and Islander settlement. Last stop is to check in at your accommodation for the next three nights at Punsand Bay Safari Lodge where you sleep in a Beachfront Cabin Tent which has ensuite facilities.

Early morning cruise through the islands of the Torres Strait to legendary Thursday Island, once home port of the romantic pearl diver fleet, now "Capital" of the scattered islander communities between Australia and New Guinea. Ample time for sightseeing, souvenir shopping, perhaps a conducted bus tour (own cost, as is lunch).

DAY 7 CAPE YORK - SOMERSET (BLD)

An unforgettable day of achievement and interest. We stand at the very "Tip" of our continent. Visit the ruins of Somerset, (road conditions permitting) with pristine beaches and rocky headlands.

"Barge Day" The focus of all attention today is Seisia wharf, where the cargo ships from Cairns disgorge their cargo of fuel, building materials, indeed everything needed by the island and local communities. At 80 meters and over 3000 tonnes the M.V. Trinity Bay is the largest cargo ship servicing the Torres Strait communities.

DAY 9 CARGO BOAT to CAIRNS (BLD)

Total relaxation as you enjoy the company of the crew and new shipboard companions.

On arrival at Trinity Wharf (anytime between 9.00am and 5.00pm depending on cargo logistics) your tour concludes with a drop off at your Cairns accommodation.