Unveil the natural wonders by land and sea

There are so many choices when making the journey Down Under, where to go and how to travel being two of the most important decisions. People spend vast amounts of time comparing airlines, seat classes and prices, but rarely do they dedicate so long to choosing how to travel around once they have arrived in Australia.

Rather than flying everywhere and then being confined to the cities, let your imagination go further and get off the beaten track. On my last trip to Queensland I chose to combine a Coral Princess Cruise with Queenslander Class on The Sunlander train. Together these trips took me from Cairns all the way down to Brisbane and proved to be a truly, magical experience.

Cruising the reef

Comfortable accommodation, delicious food and efficient staff help make a Coral Princess Cruise one to remember. Whilst on board you have the opportunity to do so much more than you could ever experience on a day tour. Over four days you go beyond simply getting a glimpse of paradise and actually get to be part of it.

As with any reef trip, the marine life is a highlight. You can view this from the comfort of a glass bottom boat or, for the more adventurous, there are swimming, snorkelling and diving options. During the cruise we stopped at several outer reef locations and two islands, so there is plenty of time to dip your toes in the water. Memorable reef experiences include seeing Blue Spotted Rays nestling on the sea bed (while snorkelling off PelorusIsland) and having a friendly turtle swim alongside the glass bottom boat near Dunk Island. Watching the sunrise over Hinchinbrook Island is worth the early alarm call and it is experiences like this that make the cruise a must-do trip.

Whilst onboard we stayed in an Upper Deck Stateroom. All rooms are ensuite and air conditioned. For that extra special trip, book a Deluxe Stateroom, which affords you some extra space.

Coral Princess Cruises allow you to explore the beauty of Tropical North Queensland, from strolling golden sandy beaches on remote coral cays to visiting secluded tropical islands and ancient rainforests, and an on-board expert is always on hand to interpret the natural wonders of the reef, rainforest and island habitats. The cruise is suitable for both the first time and repeat visitor and after 11 trips to Australia I would count this cruise as one of my favourite Down Under experiences.

Experiencing Queenslander Class

After a leisurely four days at sea it was time to change pace and after disembarking the boat I joined The Sunlander train for the journey to Brisbane. In just under 24 hours we covered over 900 miles and travelled through some of Queensland’s finest landscapes.

The journey in Queenslander Class, with a private cabin and full board meals, is certainly to be recommended. From the moment you get to your cabin (to find slippers and bathrobes) you know this is going to be much more than your average train journey. I would recommend that before you board the train you ensure you pack a small overnight bag. This will mean you can check any larger luggage items through to your arrival destination, allowing more space to relax in your private cabin.

Queenslander Class is renowned for its fine dining service. Multi course meals are served in a private dining car and your menu choices include an array of fine local produce and gourmet desserts. Prior to your evening meal, you can enjoy an early evening drink in the club car with live music from a local musician, this rounded off my trip down the coast in true style. By broadening your plans to include an element of cruising and train travel you open yourself up to exciting experiences, landscapes and travelling options that would otherwise be missed. In addition, you have the luxury of a room with an amazing view that changes constantly.