Thursday Island is off the tip of Cape York and is one of 138, mostly uninhabited, Torres Strait Islands. There is a regular ferry service from the mainland to Thursday Island. The crossing from Seisia to Thursday Island passes by 10 islands with an array of bird and sea life often visible along the way.

On Thursday Island you are greeted by a carefree lifestyle, exotic culture, strange tongues and a panorama of islands, fishing boats and the bluest of oceans. Established in 1877 as a government administrative centre, the island is the most populated in the Torres Strait with a population of 4500. Thursday Island is the business and trading centre for the 14 outer island communities and the 5 communities on the Northern Peninsula. It boasts a culturally rich history and was a major player up until the 1950's as a supplier of pearl shell to the world. The story of its maritime and military history is told in the local museums and from the lips of old seafarers sometimes found sipping a cool ale on a hot day at one of the island's old hotels.

Much can be learned of Thursday Island's history by a visit to the local cemetery. Buddhist, Shintoist, Hindu and Muslims share their last resting-place with Torres Strait Islanders and Europeans. A striking Japanese Pearl Diver's Memorial sits among the many ornate tombstones overlooking Hammond Island to the north.

Although tourism is growing, the islands main source of income is the lucrative crayfishing industry. There is an assortment of accommodation to choose from on Thursday Island from Hostel through to 4 Star. Most of the accommodation is situated on the waterfront close to ferry and water taxi services Whilst there is no public bus service on Thursday Island, there is an abundance of taxis to transport you around the island. Most accommodation houses operate courtesy buses.

The Peddells Guided Bus Tour of Thursday Island is a must do. It includes a visit to the Torres Strait Museum housed at Historic Green Hill Fort, Pearl Divers Memorial at the local cemetery, a scenic drive and a local guides comprehensive commentary. Peddells can also arrange WW2 Tours on Horn Island and the Cape York Four Wheel Drive ( 4WD ) Day Trip from Thursday Island.

For help planning your perfect Thursday Island holiday call Peddells for a Free Information Kit.