As a renowned global icon and home to some of the world’s most stunning natural beauty, the Great Barrier Reef is a destination you need to add to your yachting bucket list. Start your journey in the beautiful city of Cairns, known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, and make your way toward the secluded tropical paradise of Lizard Island on a journey covering more than 250km.
With access to some of the most luxurious superyachts in Queensland and beyond, Ahoy Club takes your Cairns charter to the next level, providing impeccable service, stylish design, and elegant touches from the moment you step aboard.
Here’s an overview of what you can expect on your trip from Cairns to Lizard Island via the Great Barrier Reef.
Cairns
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches, secluded bays, coves, and buzzing esplanades – making it a fantastic place both on land and off. Take breakfast off the coast and watch the sunrise into the sky over the towering tree-covered mountains, before enjoying a relaxing spa or a swim in your own private deck pool. Kick back and soak up the rays as you drift past white-sand beaches and mangroves. Then settle in for the night as your luxury yacht charter makes its way almost 60km to the next stop, Port Douglas.
Port Douglas
Home to two great icons, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree National Park, Port Douglas is the perfect stopover for a spot of retail therapy at boutique stores or a bite to eat in one of the many upscale restaurants. Take a 4×4 ride along the rainforest coastline before heading back to your yacht for a well-deserved soak in the jacuzzi or to refuel after a long day of adventures. Being a primary gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, it comes alive in the evening with plenty of beer gardens, cocktail lounges, and clubs going late into the night. Retire to the comfort of your room on the water and enjoy a fantastic night’s sleep before awaking in Opal Reef.
Opal Reef
Another reef found in the Great Barrier Reef, Opal Reef is within easy reach of Port Douglas. Consisting of a spectacular array of marine life ranging from rays and sharks to turtles and tropical fish, it’s an underwater world well worth a visit. Make sure to explore Blue Lagoon and Bashful Bommie as you navigate your way along 6km of aquatic beauty. The majority of the best diving sites are situated on the inner side of Opal Reef, with dives going down to approximately 3-5m. After you’ve enjoyed time beneath the waves, make the most of the warm sun with lunch and sunbathing on deck.
Cooktown
Situated at the mouth of the Endeavor River, Cooktown is home to botanical gardens, vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and fabulous views. Drop anchor off of Elim Beach or Walker Bay and enjoy a delicious lunch as you watch the world go by. Check out the James Cook Museum, go sightseeing at Grassy Hill, or cast a line and enjoy a spot of fishing. Rich indigenous history is at every turn, along with some of the most historically significant sites in Australia.
Ribbon Reef
Located between Cooktown and Lizard Island, Ribbon Reef is perched on the edge of the continental shelf and the outer parts of the Great Barrier Reef. Covered in vibrant corals and reef life, it’s the perfect place to head beneath the waves and explore a largely undisturbed underwater world. Home to large schools of fish, turtles, and even the occasional whale, the waters of Ribbon Reef are typically calm and shallow, creating optimal conditions for all ability levels. Drop anchor and enjoy cocktails and canapes before taking a dip to cool off from the heat of the day, then spend the night before moving onto Lizard Island.
Lizard Island
Nestled 27km off the Queensland Coast and 240km to the north of Cairns, Lizard Island is the ultimate destination to soak up the sun in secluded bays, swim in crystal clear waters, enjoy dinner, and drinks watching the sunset over the horizon and explore more of the Great Barrier Reef. With 24 sandy beaches, each fringed with palms and lush foliage finished off with gentle, warm waters – it truly epitomises everything far-flung tropical paradise. Enjoy playing on the waves with your water toys or simply kick back and relax and make the most of unparalleled seclusion and beauty.
Book Your Spectacular Reef Charter Today
When you book your luxury Cairns yacht charter with Ahoy Club, you’ll benefit from our decades of experience in the industry and enjoy impeccable levels of service from your very first contact. With access to some of the best yachts in Australia including Rascal, Evolution, Lady Pamela, and Mischief, spend more time exploring and relaxing whilst our team of professional crew look after you.
Enjoy luxurious facilities and amenities. Sleep in large, comfortable, and stylish rooms. Make the most of water toys and tenders. And be pampered by your crew, including your own private chef serving up award-winning menus to your requirements.
Take the first step toward luxury redefined by checking out some of the yachts available in Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.
