BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA

We will travel through one of Queensland’s farming and grazing regions before ascending to the plateau of Tamborine Mountain via a bush track – the original path built by pioneers to transport their produce from the volcanic plateau of the mountain to the coast.

We shall climb aboard our four-wheel drive vehicle, for an exciting journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Gold Coast hinterland. We will travel through one of Queensland’s farming and grazing regions before ascending to the plateau of Tamborine Mountain via a bush track – the original path built by pioneers to transport their produce from the volcanic plateau of the mountain to the coast. We’ll enjoy a home-made morning tea in the rainforest, and a leisurely nature walk with an experienced bush guide. We’ll see waterfalls and soak up panoramic views, as well as learning about the bush tucker and the local flora and fauna.Lunch is an Aussie barbeque at the exclusive country venue ‘Quamby’ (Aboriginal meaning – ‘resting place’). Quamby is tucked away in the bush beside a crystal-clear creek, and is surrounded by 300 acres of bush and farmland – home to both native and farm animals, where cattle, wallabies and kangaroos graze contentedly side-by-side. Colourful parrots, kookaburras, magpies and butcherbirds are frequent visitors, with the less timid willing to pose for that special photograph. Lunchtime entertainment’s include a whip-cracking demonstration and boomerang throwing, and will be rounded off by a refreshing dip in a cool mountain stream.Following lunch we shall visit one of the region’s wineries, to sample fine Australian wines and stroll around the vineyard, before returning to our ship.

This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, and rough ground will be encountered. This tour is not suitable for passengers using wheelchairs and is not recommended for passengers with limited mobility. The nature walk will take approximately 20 minutes, and some varying gradients will be encountered. The size of the covered four-wheel drive vehicles used ranges from 5 to 16 seaters. Some of the driving will be off-road, and because of this, the tour may prove to be unsuitable for passengers with neck and back problems. Professional driver-guides are used, and they will give an informative commentary. It is recommended that you wear casual clothing, sensible, comfortable enclosed shoes, sun protection and insect repellent. You may wish to bring swimwear and a towel as a refreshing dip in a cool mountain creek may be possible (This is dependent upon weather conditions). Please be aware that swimming too soon after a meal can cause severe cramps and may, in extreme circumstances, cause drowning. A selection of refreshments are available with lunch, including beer and wine; it is not advisable to drink alcoholic beverages if you intend to swim.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 WORLD CRUISES