6 day Townsville and Magnetic Island Experience

6 day Townsville and Magnetic Island E​xperience

​​Highlights

  • Take a scenic rail journey along the Queensland coast aboard the Spirit of Queensland
  • Enjoy stunning views from the top of Castle Hill in Townsville
  • Visit The Strand beachfront promenade
  • Swim in the crystal clear waters of Horseshoe Bay
  • Spot a koala as you hike one of the many walking trails in Magnetic Island National Park
  • Explore Magnetic Island’s secluded beaches
  • Look for turtles as you walk along Picnic Bay Jetty

​Inclusions

  • One way overnight travel on the Spirit of Queensland from Brisbane to Townsville – RailBed
  • 1 night 4 star accommodation in Townsville
  • 3 nights 4 star accommodation on Magnetic Island
  • Meals as specified
  • Maggie Comprehensive Tour
  • Return ferry transfers to Magnetic Island​​

Itinerary

Day 1: Brisbane to Townsville (D)

Join the Spirit of Queensland in Brisbane for a scenic rail journey to Townsville. Relax onboard in your spacious RailBed and enjoy the personal in-seat entertainment and an evening meal. Overnight onboard Spirit of Queensland.​

​Day 2: Townsville (B)

Arrive in Townsville early this morning and spend the day at leisure exploring Townsville. ​Head to Castle Hill lookout and take in the spectacular views of Townsville. Stroll along The Strand and cool off in the seawater rock-pool or simply laze on the beach and enjoy the views of Magnetic Island. Overnight at Rydges Southbank Townsville.

​Day 3: Townsville to Magnetic Island (B)

Spend the morning exploring the city. Take in the iconic sites of Townsville including Palmer Street and the Queens Gardens. Visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland and learn about the history and heritage of North Queensland or head to the Museum of Underwater Art and see the many underwater art installations including the Coral Greenhouse (own expense). 

In the afternoon, take a trip to beautiful Magnetic Island on board a high speed catamaran. Stay the next three nights at Grand Mercure Apartments Magnetic Island.

Day 4: Magnetic Island

See all the major sights of beautiful Magnetic Island on a guided tour. Learn about the history, native wildlife and flora and fauna. Visit Cockle Bay, Rocky Bay lookout and enjoy a picnic morning tea at the Heritage listed Picnic Bay Jetty. Spot an Allied Rock Wallaby at Geoffrey Bay before heading to Horseshoe Bay for a refreshing swim and lunch (own expense).

Day 5: Magnetic Island​

Today is yours to explore Magnetic Island at your own pace. Having a unique natural environment of palm-fringed beaches, large granite boulders, sandy beaches and fringing coral reefs, there are plenty of things to see and do on this island paradise. Relax on one of the beaches, dip your toe in the crystal-clear waters of Nelly Bay or visit the old Gun Batteries and Fort Buildings and learn about Australia’s war history. Alternatively, spend the day by the resort’s rooftop pool and take in the magnificent views of the Coral Sea.

Day 6: Townsville

Travel by ferry back to the mainland, where your holiday concludes.

(B = breakfast, D = dinner)

​Departs from Brisbane

Monday, Friday and Saturday (4 April 2025 to 31 March 2026)​

Price

Adult from $949* per person twin share

Senior from $905* per person twin share

Prices from other departure points available, please ask your travel consultant​ for details.

the Spirit of Queensland train travelling through  the Glasshouse Mountains
Aerial view of The Strand esplanade in Townsville
A couple sit overlooking Hawkers Point

​​How to book​​

For more information or to book a rail holiday, please contact your local travel agent or call Viva Holidays on 1300 872 835.​​ 

Note: Please note Queensland Rail Travel no longer sells holiday packages. We advise our customers to visit their preferred local travel agent to book your next rail holiday.​​

​* Conditions apply. Valid for travel between 4 April 2025 and 31 March 2026. From price is a guide only, subject to change and availability. Price is based on the lowest room category for travel in low season. For full terms and conditions contact your local travel agent or contact Viva H​olidays on 1300 872 835.​​​


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