Riley

Flee from the mainland to an utterly isolated and private island resort, fringed by coral reefs and shrouded by jungle, and an undeniable air of magic. The journey to this remote part of the world sets the tone for your stay and entails a private charter from either Cairns or Weipa.

Five carefully handcrafted huts are fronted by the beach, with kitchenettes, thatched roofs, driftwood furnishings, and airy open-plan designs. Arched doorways, bare stone or teak floors and gaping windows create a soothing sense of coolness, while earthy tones and textured fabrics add warming pops of colour. Private decks jut out over tropical foliage, while boardwalks lead to open showers, with huddles of palm trees serving as a backdrop.

After the sun has dipped behind the ocean, a heavenly feast of freshly caught seafood and produce from the resort’s orchard is served in the main dining room, under the light of flickering candles. Breakfast is a spread of fruit and homemade muesli, with eggs from the free-roaming chickens on the island, and lunch might even feature your own catch from the surrounding waters.

Adventure is a promise at this dreamy destination, with jet-skiing, beachcombing, snorkelling, spearfishing and boat excursions, being some popular picks on the menu of experiences. With a whole island at your doorstep, you’re encouraged to take your time to explore the beaches, venture into the jungle, or set off in a helicopter to hover over hidden waterfalls, before concluding with champagne atop a sand dune.

Set beside a palm-fringed beach, this boutique property offers guests the best of peaceful beach house life in a stunning tropical setting. The hotel’s colonial style with South Pacific decor reflects its history and makes the most of its plantation-style ambience.

There are 67 rooms offering a choice of ocean, tropical garden or pool views. Some boast kitchen facilities, spacious outdoor entertainment areas or balconies.

Enjoy a light meal out at the pool, or take a table beneath the Melaleuca trees and palms at Reef House Restaurant and enjoy the ocean views as you dine on dishes created using the finest fresh produce from around North Queensland. At twilight enjoy a glass of tropical punch and selection of canapés at Brigadier’s Bar and Lounge. The elegant space is given a colonial feel with a collection of original artefacts displayed on the walls.

When not out lazing on the sun-drenched beach, you can make use of the exclusive day spa which boasts five treatment rooms, two swimming pools, Jacuzzi, and outdoor heated spa.

The Coral Expeditions II is the ideal ship for discovering the Great Barrier Reef. Australian flagged, registered and staffed, the ship was purpose-built for cruising the region, small enough to allow snorkelling directly from the ship, yet equipped with the facilities of a much larger vessel.

The 22 rooms provide accommodation for up to 44 guests, traditionally maritime in style with private ensuites, air conditioning and large picture windows, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery.

The ship’s spacious lounge is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink from the cocktail bar. The large Sun Deck is another popular place to relax and take in the sights, with deck chairs and teak furnishings. You will also enjoy the opportunity to dine al fresco under the magnificent stars over the Great Barrier Reef or in the convivial Dining Room.

Coral Expeditions II operates an open bridge policy, allowing you to spend time with the Captain and crew. Follow our progression on the ship’s charts and chat with the Captain, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the view.