There are many historical relics on Thursday Island a result of when during World War II, more than 5,000 military were stationed in the area. Green Hill Fort and the Torres Strait Heritage Museum will have particular appeal to wartime enthusiasts.
Historical artefacts, Indigenous artworks and colourful masks and headdresses will be of interest and this tour will include a visit to the Gab Titui Cultural Centre.
Your personalised tour of Thursday Island also includes a visit to the Japanese Pearl Divers Cemetery and a stop at the northern most pub in Australia for lunch (own cost).
This island is renowned for its natural beauty. Known as Muralag the island covers an area of nearly 205sq km and is largest island in the Torres Strait and situated approximately 20km north of the mainland. The traditional owners of the land are the Kaurareg people, however only around 80 people call this paradise home.
During this tour you will gain an insight into the diverse mix of Indigenous cultures which are unique to this area. You will learn the history, culture and importance of the area whilst experiencing the natural beauty of the island. Your guide will walk you through the natural vegetation to discover some unique areas of Prince of Wales Island including the historical homestead.
During the wet season, the majestic waterfalls on Prince of Wales Island, is the splendour of nature personified with a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the natural rock pools a must. Weather conditions may affect some aspects of this tour. Water and snacks will be provided.
Constructed in 1886 the still functioning lighthouse is perfectly positioned on the highest point of Goodes Island and is of such unique construction that many people travel huge distances to visit this island to see it.
During WWII Goodes Island was used by the Australian Navy where they constructed defensive batteries around the island. Some of these can still be seen today and the area remains of interest to wartime enthusiasts.
This tour also encompasses an interesting cruise to a number of other smaller islands in the archipelago where you will have the opportunity to walk and swim on some of the most isolated and secluded beaches in Australia. Tides and weather conditions may affect some aspects of this tour. Water and snacks will be provided.
The beautiful waters of the Torres Strait is a fisherman’s word for paradise. Fishing for some of the most diverse range of fish species including coral trout, golden snapper and red emperor, not to mention the giant marlin will appeal to the fishing enthusiast. There may also be an opportunity to see dugongs, dolphins and green sea turtles.
Your private charter will be on a fully equipped centre console fishing boat with a professional guide. He has lived all his life around this area and has a detailed knowledge of where the fish are biting. All fishing gear is provided or you can bring your own if you wish.
With the abundance of the natural beauty of the area, this tour can be personalised to meet your specific needs. Tides and weather conditions may affect access to specific areas.
For those who have flown into the Torres Strait a full day trip to the tip of Cape York may be of interest. Prince of Wales Island is situated approximately 20km north of Cape York at the tip of mainland Australia. You will be collected from your accommodation and cruise past some of the most beautiful islands in the Torres Strait.
You will visit Possession Island and the 5 square kilometre National Park established as a Protected Area. The historical significance of this island was where James Cook in 1770 sailed northward in the Endeavour from Botany Bay and claimed possession of the entire east coast of Australia. However in 2001 the Kaurareg people successfully reclaimed native title rights over the island.
The tour will also include a swim on a deserted beach on a remote island where lunch will be provided. When you reach the remote tip of Cape York there will be sufficient time for photo opportunities and relaxing on the beach. Tides and weather conditions my affect some aspects of this tour. Lunch, snacks and water is included.
The people of the Torres Strait are an interesting mix of Indigenous and Melanesian and have a diverse and complex culture which can be traced back at least 50,000 years.
If you are seeking a unique cultural experience on your holiday and want an opportunity to learn more on the Indigenous history, culture and importance of the area, this is something you can’t miss.
For a very special cultural display, a group of professional traditional dancers will visit Prince of Wales Island. This group of five has performed at the Commonwealth Games and other significant events. You will be treated to a traditional Welcome to Country and a dance performance right on the beach in front of your accommodation.
We know that organising a holiday in a remote area can sometimes be daunting and that is why we have put together a number of different options to take the stress out of your adventure holiday.
The Torres Strait is a region packed full of amazing sights which are still mostly undiscovered. We offer a wide range of adventures and a truly unique experience for all our visitors.
Based on what you want to explore, we can create your own unique adventure which will be the highlight of your holiday. All you need to do, is let us know what interests you in the form below and let us create your perfect holiday in paradise.
Torres Strait Eco Adventures recognises the Traditional Owners of the land on which we operate. We acknowledge the past and present elders of all Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal peoples in the Torres Strait and Northern Peninsula Area and respect the culture and lore of all Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal peoples in the region. With special acknowledgment to the traditional owners of the Kaiwalagal area – the Kaurareg people and the traditional owners of the tip of Cape York – the Gudang Yadhaykenu people, as well as the traditional owners from all areas where Torres Strait Eco Adventures operates from.
Photography supplied by Tourism Australia, Tourism and Events Queensland
