Tropical Island Sea Kayak
AS SEEN ON PBS TV "TRAILSIDE"
An easy and relaxing way to explore the uninhabited Barnard Islands.
Sea eagles and kestrels ride the thermals overhead, whilst below
the sea surface the waters team with life. The clustered islands,
in close proximity to the mainland, allow an easy 2-3 hours of
paddling each day. Time to swim, snorkel over colourful coral
and tropical fish, relax on golden beaches or explore the islands
by foot or further exploration by sea kayak. Nights are spent
camping under a canopy of stars on deserted wilderness islands.
There is no better way to discover and enjoy the palm-fringed
islands, sparkling beaches and warm clear waters.
Day 1 - SEA KAYAKING / ISLANDS / CAMP - Drive south along
the coastal plain to Kurrimine Beach. At the beach your guide
will explain paddling techniques and safety procedures. The kayaks
are then launched for the first leg of the trip which is a 2½
hour paddle crossing KING REEF and out to the SOUTHERN
BARNARD ISLANDS. Sea Eagles and Nankeen Kestrels ride
the thermals overhead, whilst below the sea surface the waters
team with life. Before arriving at camp, energetic paddlers may
circumnavigate close by Sisters Island which is usually crowded
with birdlife. Sisters Island is a protected bird sanctuary,
landing is not permitted. This afternoon there is time to swim,
snorkel, relax or explore the island with it's astounding rock
formations formed by thousands of years of water and wind
activity. Tonight we will camp on the beach of an uninhabited
island. (Lunch and Dinner provided)
Accommodation: SOUTH BARNARD ISLANDS
Day 2 - SEA KAYAKING / ISLAND CAMP - After a hearty breakfast
and perhaps a morning swim, we break camp and paddle 2 hours to
the NORTHERN BARNARD group of islands. DOLPHINS and
TURTLES inhabit these waters and we may be lucky enough to
see them both. We will lunch on the white sands of a tropical
island with ample time to SNORKEL over colourful coral formations
and numerous tropical fish. It is possible to bushwalk
through the evergreen rainforests or take the opportunity
to visit an historic island lighthouse. We stay on one of the
North Barnard Islands overnight. Optional further paddling in
the afternoon. (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner provided)
Accommodation: NORTH BARNARD ISLANDS
Day 3 - SEA KAYAKING - A leisurely start before commencing
the 3 hour paddle to the mainland. En-route we pass close to nearby
islands, with the possibility of landing to explore the mysterious
caves. Land on the mainland at Cowley Beach where our bus
will be waiting to take us back to Cairns. (Breakfast and Lunch
provided)
The itinerary may be varied depending on prevailing weather conditions
and permit restrictions due to island closures at various times.
Grade: Easy
DEPARTURES : Every Monday from Apr 22 to Nov 25 (inclusive).
Additional departures - Jun 19, 26, Jul 17, 24, Aug 7, 14.
MEETING POINT AND TIME: Pick up from your hotel (Cairns
and Northern Beaches) at approx. 7.10am.
TOUR CONCLUDES: 6.00pm in Cairns.
Trip Prices: Adult: $345 USD per person, Child (10-13):
$276 USD p/p
Prices valid from 1st April 2002 to 31 March 2003 and are GST
inclusive.
INCLUSIONS: All meals from lunch on day 1, transfers,
2 person sea kayaks, all equipment including snorkelling, camping
gear, sleeping bag and dry bag (water resistant), all safety equipment,
National Park fees and permits, knowledgeable and experienced
guides.
PRICE EXCLUDES: Great Barrier Reef Marine Park fees (AUD
$12.00 p/p), items of a personal nature.
CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT: The following items of clothing
and equipment are recommended for this trip:
· Sports shoes or running shoes (traction soles) ·
Tevas, aqua socks or similar · Swimwear · T-shirts
· Light-weight shirt (long sleeved for sun protection)
· Shorts · Sarong · Spray jacket ·
Cotton or synthetic athletic socks · Light-weight tracksuit
for wearing at night · Limited toiletries · Small
towel. A quick drying chamois towel is ideal. · Small flashlight
with spare batteries and bulb · Insect repellent ·
Polarising sunglasses (with restraining strap) · Water
resistant sunscreen and sun-blocking lip balm · Light hat
with wide brim or peaked cap if preferred. · Camera (optional)
carried at your own risk. A disposable waterproof camera is a
safe option. · Camp beverages (No beer can be carried but
a bottle of spirits or a cask/bladder of wine is fine and ·
ften welcome). · Thermal singlet (optional) May-Sep ·
Warm pullover or jacket (May-Sep)
