Riding in tandem

Two of Australia’s best known cycle tourism operators, ROC Tours Australia and Outbike, have joined forces under The Adventure Collective, to create Australia’s leading adventure and cycle tourism company.

Both companies have become well known for providing unique cycling trips through some of the most remote regions of Australia’s Outback.

The Adventure Collective was formed by Peter Solly, former CEO of Bicycle SA, founder and former CEO of the Australian Centre for Excellence in Cycle Tourism (now Cycle Tourism Australia), with Emma Ringer, former staff journalist for Bicycling Australia and a number of other cycling magazines, and Ben Weigl, adventurer and experienced tour guide.

They are now offering a package as part of the Tour Down Under in 2008, which combines a blend of cycling, gourmet food, top class wine, nature, and racing action.

New policy for Whitsunday cruise

Whitsundays-based Fantasea Adventure Cruising has formally adopted a non-smoking policy across all of its operations - including its 10-strong fleet of inter-island ferries and cruise vessels to Reefworld and Whitehaven Beach, along with the cruise ship, MV Fantasea Ammari.

Award-winning Fantasea Cruising's newest and most luxurious vessel, the 60-metre, 32-cabin MV Fantasea Ammarì, began 3-night cruises to the Great Barrier Reef and Whitsunday islands at the beinning of the year.

MV Fantasea Ammarì offers one cruise a week, departing Hamilton Island and Daydream Island Resort & Spa on Sundays, returning Wednesdays.

The vessel can also be charted exclusively for day trips and overnight cruises – an attractive package that is aimed at the MICE market.

MV Fantasea Ammarì features comfortable air-conditioned cabins, restaurant, cafe, bars, saltwater pool, day spa, salon and souvenir shop as well as offering an exciting range of on and off-board activities.

Fantasea Cruising, which is Australian-owned and operated, is the largest operator in the Whitsundays.