Orpheus Island

Orpheus Island is the second largest of the Palm Islands. Only two islands in the group (Orpheus and Pelorus) can be visited; the other eight (Brisk, Curacao, Eclipse, Esk, Falcon, Fantone, Havannah and Great Palm) are reserves belonging to the Aborigines which can be entered only with a special permit. Orpheus Island has an area of 14 sq.km and its highest point rises to 172m above sea level. It comprises open woodland, grassland and, in depressions and sheltered inlets, rain forest, with long beaches of white sand. The reefs round the island are ideal for divers and snorkellers, with over 1000 species of fish and over 300 species of coral. Also dolphins and sightings of humpback whales. The island can be reached from Townsville by seaplane, and there are also flights from Cairns (calling in on Hinchinbrook Island to the north). There are water taxis from Dungeness (near Lucinda) and boats from Townsville (via Magnetic Island).