A new all inclusive touring package is bringing together three of Tropical North Queensland’s major drawcards in a single day: the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest and Kuku Yalanji culture.
Created by Sailaway Port Douglas and Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre, the new Rainforest to Reef experience combines a Kuku Yalanji guided Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk with a small group sailing trip to Low Isles.
“It was actually the inbound market that came up with the idea… we have guests that travel, particularly to Port Douglas, that want to experience Indigenous culture, that want to experience the rainforest … and also want to experience the Great Barrier Reef.” said Peter Graham, Director of Sales & Partnerships, Voyage Tourism Australia
The itinerary allows visitors to experience Indigenous culture, rainforest and reef without sacrificing several days of their holiday.
“This new package perfectly blends the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the lush Daintree Rainforest into a one day, all inclusive package,” Alicia Triggs, Executive General Manager Sales & Partnerships said.
“Guests can experience the best Tropical North Queensland has to offer, and discover three worlds – reef, rainforest and Indigenous culture – all while connecting with the rich traditions of the Traditional Owners.”
The day begins with transfers from selected Port Douglas locations to Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre for the 90 minute Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk. Conducted on private Indigenous land, the experience includes a smoking ceremony and stories about Kuku Yalanji culture, history, bush medicine, hunting, gathering and traditional uses of ochre.
Guests also have time at the Cultural Centre, where Kuku Yalanji artworks are available to view and purchase, before transferring to the Port Douglas Marina.
The full day itinerary then continues aboard Sailaway Port Douglas for a 5.5 hour trip to Low Isles, with three hours at the coral cay.
Numbers aboard Sailaway’s vessels are limited to approximately 40 guests, supporting the small group focus of the combined experience.
At Low Isles, guests can join a guided snorkel with a marine guide, explore the island on a nature walk or view the reef from a solar electric glass bottom boat. The reef begins just off the beach, making the experience accessible to guests who may not be confident swimming in deeper water.
Lunch, a charcuterie board, canapés and beverages are included, with the return journey offering sunset views across the Port Douglas coastline and Daintree mountain ranges.
The full day Rainforest to Reef package operates from 9am to 6.30pm and is priced at $495 per adult, $325 per child aged four to 12 and $1,455 per family.
A shorter afternoon option
A half day Rainforest to Sunset Sail package is also available for travellers who want a more relaxed morning.
After completing the Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk, guests return to Port Douglas for a 1.5 hour evening sail. The cruise includes a welcome drink, a charcuterie board and hot and cold canapés, with multiple viewing areas aboard the vessel.
The half day package costs $240 per adult, $175 per child aged four to 12, $105 per infant and $740 per family.
The launch coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk in 2026.
Travel advisors can book and manage the packages through Journey Beyond’s online trade booking platform, including entering guest details and selecting preferred Port Douglas pickup locations.
Further information is available from Sailaway Port Douglas.
