First Fleet Week 2026
04 March 2026 - 11 March 2026
Pricefrom $3,299 per person twin share
DetailsJoin us for a fabulous historical snap-shot of convict life centred around an evocative re-enactment of the 06 March 1788 landing of the First Fleet.
Holiday Package Inclusions
Event Details
The 6 March 1788 arrival on Norfolk Island of Commandant Philip Gidley King and a small group of convicts and free settlers saw the beginnings of the First British Settlement on Norfolk Island.
Centred around an evocative re-enactment of their landing on that day, this week offers the chance to discover some of Norfolk's fascinating but relatively un-known history, during a week designed to provide a snap-shot of convict life. Watch the First Fleet land on our shores during the re-enactment, followed by a luncheon. Also see the island on an Island Life Tour, experience the iconic Fish Fry and discover the island's history. Don't miss out - this time of year is a stunning time to visit Norfolk Island!
Holiday Package Prices
Self Catering Accommodation Options
The Crest Apartments: Stay in a spacious, self-contained one-bedroom apartment featuring a separate lounge and bedroom, along with a fully equipped kitchen complete with a full-size stove and microwave. Set on an elevated three-hectare site with expansive, beautifully maintained grounds, the property is perfectly positioned to capture stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as Phillip and Nepean Islands. Ideally located, this property serves as your gateway to Norfolk Island’s World Heritage-listed areas of Kingston and Arthur’s Vale, the pristine waters of Emily Bay, the island’s scenic golf course, fascinating museums, and historic convict ruins.
Cascade Garden Apartments: Stay in a self-contained one-bedroom apartment, complete with a private covered rear deck featuring its own barbecue, outdoor seating, and washing line. Nestled within award-winning gardens, the modern Cascade Garden Apartments offer a peaceful retreat with views of the Pacific Ocean. Ideally located on New Cascade Road, overlooking the picturesque Cascade Valley, this tranquil setting is just a short 10 to 15-minute walk from the town centre, where you'll find restaurants, cafés, and local shops.
Coast Norfolk Island: Stay in boutique, self-contained accommodation with stunning ocean views across 30 acres of pine valleys and green hills in Norfolk Island’s World Heritage-listed area. Relax in the Coast day spa, swim in the saltwater pool, or explore the island with complimentary bikes, fishing rods, and snorkelling gear. Each one-bedroom unit features a private deck with ocean views, a full kitchen, modern amenities, and a comfortable lounge area. Conveniently located just five minutes from town and the beach, Coast provides everything needed for the perfect island escape.
Hibiscus Regal Apartments: Conveniently located close to town, this property offers comfortable self contained one-bedroom apartments. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchen with an oven, microwave, and cooktop, ideal for self-catering. Guests can also enjoy access to a shared BBQ area and a guest laundry with washing machine and dryer.
Resort Style Accommodation
Stay at Governor's Lodge and enjoy the added bonus of Breakfast Daily.Â
Governor’s Lodge is a peaceful resort style retreat offering 55 individual cabins set across 12 acres of beautifully landscaped sub-tropical gardens, framed by iconic Norfolk Pines. Guests enjoy access to three on-site dining venues, a swimming pool with heated spa, and a full-service reception for any unexpected needs.
This non-smoking property is centrally located, just minutes from the island’s top dining, shopping, and key attractions such as Kingston and Emily Bay. With everything you need for a relaxing Norfolk Island escape, we’re dedicated to making your stay feel like a true discovery of paradise.
Event Itinerary
(B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner)
Day 1 Tuesday 3 March 2026 – Depart Brisbane, Arrive Norfolk Island (D)
Make your way to Brisbane International Airport for your flight to Norfolk Island. Upon arrival, be transferred to your accommodation, where your car rental will be available for collection. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at Governor’s Lodge.
Day 2 Wednesday 4 March 2026 – Island Life Tour (L)
Spend the morning on a guided tour exploring Norfolk Island, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the island's unique culture and modern way of life. Your guide will provide detailed insights into the diverse ethnic groups, nationalities, and languages spoken, including the indigenous Norfolk Island language. The tour will conclude with a delightful lunch at the Boatshed Restaurant at Governor’s Lodge Hotel. The rest of the day and evening is at leisure.
Day 3 Thursday 5 March 2026 – Day at Leisure, Island Fish Fry (D)
Enjoy a day at leisure. Interested in a tour? Let us know, and we can add it to your package. Visit the World of Norfolk exhibit offering an immersive experience, showcasing the island's unique history, culture, and landscapes through world-class displays and 28 custom-built glass panels.
You may want to explore one of Norfolk Island’s many Museums. We have included the Norfolk Island Museum Pass & entry to the Bounty Museum for use during your stay. The pass allows multiple entries to all four museums, plus two guided Tag-A-Long tours, revealing additional stories from Norfolk's history. No need to book—simply join the tours on the mornings that suit you, starting from the R.E.O Café at 9:30am. Discover Norfolk Island’s fascinating history at the Bounty Folk Museum, a treasure trove of collections and exhibits, including the new "Captain Bligh, Myth, Man and Mutiny" exhibit. Located in one of Norfolk's oldest buildings, this museum provides a deep insight into life on the island since 1788.
In the evening, indulge in a feast of island dishes, salads, homemade bread and freshly fried fish, followed by island desserts and tea or coffee. Watch the sun set from Pinetree Tours' exclusive property 'Orn Daa Cliff' on Norfolk’s beautiful western coastline and enjoy some local entertainment when the Baunti Byuutis dancing group takes the stage to entertain you with their captivating local performances.
Day 4 Friday 6 March 2026 – Foundation Day (L)
Be transported to Kingston for the morning of Foundation Day to witness a re-enactment of the first landing of convicts on Norfolk Island. Following the reenactment, experience a unique historical dining experience, as the Commandant and his team of Redcoats and wenches serve you lunch. They will serve you a sumptuous lunch of meats, fish, salads, roasted vegetables, and traditional bread, accompanied by wine and orange juice, followed by a spread of delicious desserts. The rest of the day and evening is at leisure.
Day 5 Saturday 7 March 2026 – Day at Leisure
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Discover the shops in the Burnt Pine area, a duty-free and GST-free shopping haven with over 50 locally owned stores offering everything from sporting goods to jewellery and artwork. You won’t find chain stores here, making for a unique shopping experience. Explore a museum, join a Tag-A-Long tour, or try one of the DIY Tours, these six self-guided tours cover the island’s history, language, national parks, and hidden gems.
Day 6 Sunday 8 March 2026 – Day at LeisureÂ
Enjoy a full day at leisure today. Head to Norfolk's Sunday Markets, where you can browse island souvenirs, locally made handcrafts, jewellery, artwork, and more. For a relaxing day, consider wandering through the Botanic Gardens or take a drive to 100 Acres Reserve, where you can walk to the cliff edge and view the seabird nests. If you're looking for a swim, head to Emily Bay, or perhaps grab some lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of Norfolk's beautiful scenic spots.
Day 7 Monday 9 March 2026 – World Heritage Walking Tour (D)
Enjoy a leisurely morning, perhaps visit a museum or join one of the Tag-A-Long Tours. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of the World Heritage-listed Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area (KAVHA), rich in Australia’s colonial and penal history. Explore convict incarceration sites and the cultural landscape once occupied by the military and civil population, with insightful commentary from your guide. In the evening, enjoy dinner at Paradise Hotel.
Day 8 Tuesday 10 March 2026 – Farewell Norfolk Island, Arrive Brisbane
Sadly, your week has come to an end. After checking out of your accommodation this morning, you'll have a little free time before being transferred to Norfolk Island Airport for your journey home.
The above itinerary is based on travel from Brisbane. For departures from Sydney, the inclusions remain the same, however the order of activities may vary slightly across the days.
I can strongly recommend doing the same tour arrangement to anyone with an interest in First Fleeters and others on Norfolk Island during the first and second settlements. There is nothing like seeing the locations in person.
Terms and Conditions
Prices are a guide only, subject to change and availability, and are in Australian Dollars. Prices are correct as of 9 April 2025. Please check all prices, availability, fees, conditions and information with your travel agent before booking. The above itinerary is based on travel from Brisbane. For departures from Sydney, the inclusions remain the same, however the order of activities may vary slightly across the days.
Deposit:Â A non-refundable deposit is due upon booking. Airfare may be required at time of booking to commit to Qantas booking terms and conditions.
Final Payment: Final payment is required no later than Monday 24 November 2025 Payment can be made by personal or bank cheques or by direct deposit into our Commonwealth Bank account. If you would prefer to pay by Visa or Mastercard, please add 1.5% to the total cost of your holiday package.
Changes & Amendments:Â Changes can be made up to 48 hours (notification business days only) prior to departure at a change fee of $200 per person plus any applicable upgrade fees, subject to availability.
Cancellation:Â Airfare is subject to availability and non-refundable after issue. Accommodation cancellation penalties apply within 90 days prior to travel. Within 60 days of travel, up to 100% cancellation fees may apply.
We strongly recommend travel insurance to protect you against some unforeseen cancellations.