Queensland

Lizard Island

Chase the highly prized Marlin in luxury — the most northern resort on the Great Barrier Reef.

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Season September - December
Duration 5-7 days
Max Guests 6
Difficulty Intermediate
Price $$$$
Target Species Black Marlin, Coral Trout

Overview

Lizard Island is the most northern resort on the Great Barrier Reef, located 28km off Tropical North Queensland and 240km north of Cairns. The island covers over 1,000 hectares with 24 white-sand beaches, a famous blue lagoon, and fabulous fringing reef.

The waters surrounding Lizard Island boast some of the most exciting fishing in the world, with Black Marlin up to 1,000 pounds caught during the famous September to December season. Being based on Lizard Island dramatically reduces travel time to the outer reef compared to fishing from Port Douglas, Cairns, or Cooktown, and the island has its own fuel supply.

The resort features 40 luxurious suites and offers an all-inclusive experience with gourmet dining, premium beverages, and a range of water activities. Famous residents include Monitor lizards, prolific birdlife, and marine species including 70-year-old giant clams.

Package Details

What's Included

  • Oceanview Villa accommodation (double/twin share)
  • All dining and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages
  • Wine, basic spirits, and sparkling wine selection
  • Deluxe picnic hampers
  • SUP boards, sea kayaks, motorised dinghy access
  • Snorkelling gear
  • Private full day charter of MV Duyfken (up to 8 hours)
  • Resort return transfers from Cairns

Additional Costs

  • Flights to Cairns
  • Cellar Master list and premium spirits
  • Private dining experiences
  • Private guides and diving on MV Duyfken
  • Travel insurance

Accommodation

Oceanview Villa

Luxurious Oceanview Villas on Sunset Ridge amongst native eucalyptus bushland, with filtered sea views over Anchor Bay or Sunset Beach. Each features a private deck with ocean views, linen and blue-hue décor, and all modern amenities. Additional room types are available.

Vessel

MV Duyfken

Type
51ft Riviera Cruise Vessel
Speed
20 knots cruising
Capacity
Up to 8 passengers
Outer Reef
40 minutes

The MV Duyfken is a 51ft Riviera Cruise Vessel Bridge Cruiser with a cruise speed of 20 knots, accommodating up to 8 passengers. Reaches the outer Great Barrier Reef in 40 minutes and the inner reef in a short ride.

Fishing & Species

Lizard Island is synonymous with giant Black Marlin. The heavy tackle season runs from September through December, when the great fish migrate along the outer reef edge. Fish exceeding 1,000 pounds are caught annually.

Year-round, the reef offers exceptional light tackle fishing for Giant Trevally, Spanish Mackerel, Coral Trout, Red Emperor, Nannygai, and numerous other tropical species. Fly fishing opportunities abound on the surrounding reef flats.

Getting There

Flights from Cairns to Lizard Island take approximately 1 hour via East Air terminal. Flights depart daily (except Monday/Wednesday) at 2pm to the island, 11am from the island. Maximum 25kg luggage (1 suitcase + 1 carry-on). Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia fly to Cairns from all major Australian cities.

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