Where does the tour finish?
In Cairns after breakfast on Day 7 (or Day 9 if you add the Port Douglas & Daintree extension).
Is a flight included?
Yes. A domestic flight Brisbane → Proserpine (Whitsundays) is included. Return or onward flights after the tour are self-arranged.
How big is the group?
Small and social—up to ~16 guests.
What level of fitness is needed?
Easy. Expect short boardwalks and lookout walks, relaxed reef and island days, and one longer coach travel day.
What meals are included?
6 breakfasts and 2 lunches (Whitsundays cruise and Great Barrier Reef day). Other meals are flexible so you can try local spots.
Are national park fees and listed activities included?
Yes. All listed entries and guided experiences are covered, including the Whitsundays cruise and Great Barrier Reef day.
Can dietary needs be accommodated?
Generally yes—advise at booking so the operator can plan with hotels and cruise partners.
How much luggage can I bring?
Coach space is limited: 1 × 20 kg bag + 1 × 5 kg daypack works best. Airline checked baggage limits apply to the included domestic flight (see final documents).
Is this suitable for solo travellers?
Yes. Solo travellers booked in Twin Share are paired with a same-gender guest. Private Single rooms are available (supplement applies).
What’s the accommodation like?
Hand-picked boutique hotels/resorts with private ensuites in Brisbane, Airlie Beach, Mission Beach and Cairns (plus Port Douglas on the 9-day).
Do I need to be a confident swimmer?
No. Reef and beach swims are optional. Snorkel gear is provided on included boat days, and non-swimmers can enjoy the glass-bottom boat.
What about jellyfish (stingers)?
In tropical QLD, stinger risk is typically higher Nov–May. Operators commonly provide/require stinger suits in season; follow crew advice on the day.
I get seasick—any tips?
Bring motion-sickness tablets and take them before boarding (per instructions). Staff choose the most sheltered sites available on windy days.
Will there be free time?
Yes. Airlie Beach, Cairns (and Port Douglas on the 9-day) include unstructured time for cafés, markets, and optional add-ons.
Is travel insurance required?
Strongly recommended for medical, cancellation and disruption coverage. Keep policy details handy.
Is the tour suitable for mobility-impaired travellers?
Unfortunately no. Guests should be able to walk unaided on short tracks, steps and uneven or sandy surfaces.
Are there age limits?
Minimum age 12. Travellers 12–17 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Not suitable for children 11 and under.
What happens if weather disrupts plans?
Safety first. The operator may re-sequence or adjust activities (e.g., reef sites, daily timings) to suit conditions.
Who runs this tour—how does booking work?
Zero Trace Tours is a marketplace. A vetted operator runs the tour and provides on-ground logistics and final confirmations. Booking is made through Zero Trace Tours; the operator delivers the experience.
How “green” is this trip?
Each booking funds a counter-impact to balance estimated emissions, with a 200% offset applied to the itinerary’s CO₂e estimate. See the Impact page for the current approach.
Anything else I should pack?
A 1 L+ refillable bottle, reef-safe SPF 50+, hat, sunglasses, lightweight long sleeves for sun, a light rain shell, and a warm layer for cooler Tablelands evenings. A small dry bag is handy for boat days.