havetorun

My experience was with Rhapsody of the Seas. I booked the ships Brisbane Koala Sanctuary I would do it again enjoy seeing so many of the animals unique to Australia. My ship also went to Carins and I took an 1/2 day independent tour of Green Island ($79.00 AUD +$7 stringer suit and $2 for a locker). I saw many more type of hard and soft coral at Green Island and more and larger fish. Even found Nemo in his sea anemone (a clown fish)! The best viewing was by the pier you could just walk to the loading dock and jump in.

 

Besides being cheaper $249 USD for Airlie Beach vs. $82 AUD; the ferry ride was much shorter 45 mins for Green Island vs 2 to 2.5 hours to Reefworld Platoon. The water was much rougher at the Paltoon and 6 women were saved of the water by life guards during our short visit and one man from our ships tour sadly died. I was bruised from the ropes and others snorkelers kicking while try to get out of the water.

 

I hope that my information helps you make an informed decision. Enjoy your cruise!

Thank you so much! It sounds like you had an amazing experience!

The koala Sanctuary is one excursion I was considering but hesitant to book. I am so excited to see all the animals of Australia and really want a hands-on experience and your information has really helped me make an informed decision.

Thanks again!

Hi

 

We have done this cruise twice, both on Rhapsody. Guess that tells you we enjoyed it!

 

Might be worth looking to see if you have a Roll Call for the cruise - depending on when you are going.

 

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/forumdisplay.php?f=270

 

You will probably have an overnight in Cairns which is great because you have options for what you may want to do such as Kurunda Rainforest via Train or Skyrail, Great Barrier Reef, walking around the Esplanade etc etc.

 

Really need to know what sort of things you like to do before advising what there is - do you like wineries, or cruising along the river or do you like adrenalin type activities?

 

Kirrarne

Thank you so muhc for your response; I appreciate the information.

My husband and I enjoy most anything; from hiking, to sailing, to hot air balloon rides; we enjoy it all. Neitehr of us is certified to dive so diving trips are out, but snorkleing is okay. I have never been to winery but I'm sure I would enjoy it as I really enjoy various wines.

Does this help?

Thanks again.

Hello.

This is my first post, so I'm unfamiliar with the language used in this forum. My apologies if use a term incorrectly.

My husband and I are planning our dream vacation to Australia. We have decided on the 11 Day Queensalnd Cruise with RC, and I believe the ship is Rhapsody. Has anyone else taken this cruise? If so, do you have any tips?

I'm having a hard time booking excursions because most look really fun and exciting, and I'm not sure how to determine which ones are worth the extra expense. Any ideas?

I'm also trying to decide if I should upgrade to a suite; it seems like a good investment but I'm not sure because I've never upgraded before - I generally stick with a balacony.

Thank you so much and I look forward to your feedback.