Action packed breaks are becoming increasingly popular as Australians are taking the opportunity to take more frequent, but shorter holidays and extended weekends.

Holiday makers are prepared to spend up big in the pursuit of adventure and life long memories.  For businesses in Port Douglas who specialise in unique and adventurous tourism products this trend represents an opportunity too good to ignore.   

Kite surfing, para-sailing, ultra light and scenic helicopter flights, join traditional favourites such as scuba diving and sea kayaking as experiences high on the list of things to do for potential short-breakers.

With domestic air travel at its most accessible there is a willing and able market ready to be enticed. Add in a touch of luxury and pampering with gourmet food and maybe a massage at the end of a thrilling day, and their ideal short break is complete.

The cruise ship industry is also riding the short trip wave with figures from the International Cruise Council Australasia showing the percentage of passengers taking cruises of four days or less rising from 4.5 per cent last year to 7.8 per cent this year. As one of the most popular ports for cruise ships, there is real potential for Port Douglas businesses to cater for the needs of this growing market.