Page 91 - Port Douglas Magazine 26

Choo Choo’s at St. Crispins

Choo Choo Explorer

We shared the 3 in 1 experience with plenty of time to savour lunch and take in saltwater crocodile residents. Opening out
three generations of our tribe and when the serene outlook across the lake, and over on the wider waterways of Dickson Inlet the
you mix the immersive landscapes with the Sheraton Mirage golf course with the scenery changes with moored yachts and
two family friendly tours hosted by stunning Daintree Ranges back drop. One fishing boats trying their luck and then into
friendly staff and toss in one long lazy cheeky little croc has heard the buzz about the Crystalbrook Superyacht Marina, home
lunch date then magic happens. this great cafe and often swims by so keep to impressive white boats and Great Barrier
With a toot of the whistle, a puff of steam, an eye out! Reef tour operators.
squeals of delight and signal of the green The 3 in 1 package has 2 departure times of
flags we departed from the Crystalbrook 11:05am and 12:30pm to ride in style.
Superyacht Marina Station. This nostalgic “We weave through the Don’t have time for the 2 hour and 40 minute
steam train has open carriages that click clack tour? Then check out the other affordable
along the century old tracks with all the vibes mangroves and move onto packages available for online bookings
of yesteryear and a nod to the pioneers of the open bow of the boat including a picture perfect sunset cruise.
sugar cane hauling. A game of Bally Hooley with our eyes peeled for
eye spy quickly takes over our carriage and native birdlife in the trees, This gentle way to explore Port Douglas
the kids are smiling from ear to ear while as well as the chance to offers value for money, is engaging for kids
the grandparents are blissfully reminiscing spot the local saltwater and relaxing for adults. Yes it’s true, the
secret is out, welcome aboard!
and giving the royal wave to passersby.
There are two brief stops for passengers crocodile residents.” What’s included…
to hop on and off at the Mirage Country
Club and QT Resort stations and the train With happy tummies, it’s boarding time Bally Hooley steam train
conductor provides a fun fact commentary once again on the Bally Hooley for a quick One way journey
of the bustling village’s colourful history. trip further down the line to meet the Choo Complimentary lunch and drink at
Rolling into St Crispin’s station we disembark Choo Explorer waiting at the dock for part Choo Choos @ St.Crispins
and watch on as ‘Nelson’, the beautifully three of the journey. Captain and crew
restored steam locomotive, is uncoupled welcome us onboard the two level eco Choo Choo Explorer
and manually turned on the tracks, loaded friendly powered custom catamaran with One way boat cruise
with coal and set to make another return trip. panoramic views on the sky view upper Complimentary drink onboard
On the other side of the platform is Choo deck. We settled inside the cabin for ease Choo Choo Explorer
Choos @ St Crispin’s, a vibrant cafe loved and comfort as complimentary drinks were
by locals. Finding our table reservation served and the tour guide shared his love 0403 068 505
under the botanical arbor we ordered from and knowledge of this unspoilt area. It’s ballyhooleyrail.com.au
the full lunch list and were served up a calm water cruising all the way with the
refreshing sip from the bar. The menu shines protection of the diverse intertidal eco
with tropical inspiration and fresh flavours system. We weave through the mangroves
from locally sourced produce. The kids are and move onto the open bow of the boat
catered for with their own delicious dishes with our eyes peeled for native birdlife in the
and drinks. There is no need to rush with trees, as well as the chance to spot the local

PORT DOUGLAS MAGAZINE 91