11 Days: Great Barrier Reef & Aussie Icons [BU-TA89]
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Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Melbourne (2 Nights), Sydney (3), Cairns (4)
  • International Flights are optional inclusions (but can included in a custom quote)
  • USA Domestic Flights are not included (but can included in a custom quote)
  • Australian Domestic Flights - Melbourne to Sydney, Sydney to Cairns, Cairns to Brisbane - Not Included (but can included in a custom quote)
  • Shuttle Transfers - Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (return), Cairns Airport to Accommodation (return)
  • Day Tour - Melbourne: Phillip Island Penguins; Sydney: Opera House Tour; Cairns: The Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Dreaming Tour, Kuranda and the Rainforest Region
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (US$15.00 per person)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Itinerary Details
(Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Sydney (Not Included)

Travel to Australia on your vacation. After departing from Los Angeles you will be provided with an evening meal. You can relax, have a drink, watch a movie, review your itinerary or just rest. You will be given Breakfast before landing in Sydney, Australia. (You lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don’t worry you catch it up again on your return flight to the USA)

Please confirm with the airlines at Check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record.

(Day 2) - Australian Domestic Flight, Sydney to Melbourne (Not Included)

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to Melbourne.

(Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer, Melbourne Aiport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Melbourne, Australia.

(Days 2 to 4) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Melbourne

Travel to your accommodation in Melbourne, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located in the heart of Melbourne, Australia. Its suites are equipped with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and ensuite bathrooms. Most are facing on to the hotel’s private European style courtyard. The vacation accommodation is close to Chinatown. Or perhaps stroll to the Southern Cross Station and travel by tram throughout the city. For the less adventurous, Melbourne is the perfect launching pad for day tours to such places like Phillip Island and Penguins, or perhaps the Great Ocean Road.

(Day 3) - Day Tour, Phillip Island Penguin Parade, Ultimate Eco Tour

Phillip Island is home to an astounding array of wildlife, including Australia’s largest fur seal colony, the little penguins and cuddly koalas. Enjoy getting close to koalas and kangaroos before joining the little penguins at dusk, as they emerge from the surf and waddle to their burrows.

Get up close and personal with the friendly residents of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where you learn about the conservation of these loveable native animals. The eco certified sanctuary also showcases some lesser known but equally adorable endangered species including the Southern Bettong, Eastern Quolls and rare Fluffy Gliders. We visit historic Churchill Island and see sheep shearing in action and have some time to explore the historic buildings. Next up is the Koala Conservation Centre where we see koalas in their natural environment. We also take a stroll along the boardwalks at the Nobbies & Seal Rock Centre, before arriving at Summerland beach for the nightly penguin parade. Home to Victoria’s largest colony of little penguins, Summerland beach provides a spectacular backdrop to the world famous penguin parade. Watch as hundreds of little penguins make their way across the beach and go home for the night. Tour conclusion depends on time of year and ranges from 10pm during the winter months to midnight during summer as the penguins arrive at sunset.

Upgrade Available to Exclusive Viewing Platform (pricing available upon request)
Photo credit: Visit Victoria

(Day 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Melbourne Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation to the Airport in Melbourne, Australia.

(Day 4) - Australian Domestic Flight, Melbourne to Sydney (Not Included)

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Melbourne to Sydney.

(Day 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Aiport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

Travel via shuttle to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

(Days 4 to 7) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Downtown Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 nights in your studio room apartment.

Just 30 minutes from Sydney Airport, your accommodation is conveniently located between Darling Harbour and the Sydney CBD.

The friendly staff at your accommodation can attend to your every need with 24 hour guest reception. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at their signature restaurant.

Relax in a stylish and comfortable haven whilst being in close proximity to shopping at Westfield’s Pitt St Mall and Darling Harbour. Don’t forget to take a stroll down Pitt St towards Circular Quay to take in more of Sydney’s world famous sites- like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

(Day 5) - Day Tour, Sydney Opera House Tour

On your vacation, participate in an inspiring tour of the Sydney Opera House.

This one hour tour outlines the intricate and controversial history of the Sydney Opera House along with details of the unique design of this architectural masterpiece. You will visit a number of the six performance venues, including the magnificent wood paneled Concert Hall and the Opera Theater as well as the new Utzon room. You will also visit the glass enclosed northern foyer areas which boast spectacular views of Sydney Harbour – a perfect photo opportunity.

Operates
Daily, Hourly 9am to 5pm
Does not operate Good Friday, Christmas, New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day 2024

Includes
One hour guided experience.

Need to Know
This tour has 300+ stairs – Low Impact. It is strongly encouraged that you leave bags at your hotel and avoid bringing any large items to the Opera House (anything larger than an 8×10″ sheet of paper). No luggage or large bags accepted. Videoing is not allowed. There are plenty of photo opportunities — your tour guide will advise you if photos are not to be taken at any point.

Upgrades
-Add a lunch, dinner or performance to your tour.
-Upgrade your experience with a private, backstage, or architectural tour.

(Day 6) - Free Day to Explore Sydney

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

Walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or take the 30 minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, Sydney’s premier beach resort. Here you can enjoy the laid back beach culture as well as many festivals and events. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is approximately a 10 minute train ride and is one of Australia’s most famous and iconic beaches. Save some time to take a beach walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach, it’s known to be a true highlight. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb

Reach new heights and climb the famous Harbour Bridge in Sydney!

Achieve exhilaration and personal satisfaction as you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For approximately 3.5 hours you and 11 other eager climbers will join a climb guide and weave through catwalks, climb up ladders and then arrive at the most spectacular point of all – the upper arch climb. The steady incline to the upper arch leaves you free to focus your attention on your Sydney experience, with opportunities for 360 degree views of Sydney, including east to the ocean, west to the mountains and the harbor city surrounds.

It is at this point that you not only have a bird’s eye view of the beautiful Sydney Harbour and the city, but have the exhilarating and rewarding experience of reaching the top of the iconic Harbour Bridge.

When you reach the top you will have a sense of achievement you’ll remember forever – you’ve conquered an Australian icon recognized the world over! No other Sydney tourist attraction can give you this feeling of standing at the top of the world, with the harbor spread before you.

All climbers will be issued a complimentary photograph of your climb group.

Operates:
Daily, in all weather conditions (except in cases of extreme weather conditions like electrical storms or high winds).

Need to Know:
– Wear comfortable, enclosed rubber-soled shoes and comfortable clothing;
– Secure lockers will be provided to store your personal belongings;
– No cameras, phones, GoPros or other video and mobile devices are allowed on the climb;
– Children ages 8 – 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Children younger than 8 are not permitted on the climb;
– Maximum of 14 people per group.

Times:
The climb lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Climbs are available at dawn (limited departures), day, twilight or night.

Inclusions:
BridgeClimb cap;
Certificate of Achievement;
A complimentary Climb Group photo.

Photo Credit: BridgeClimb Sydney.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Blue Mountains Deluxe Day Tour - Full Day

The Blue Mountains Deluxe Day is a real journey into the heart of a unique World Heritage Region. From temperate rainforests to towering sandstone escarpments, you’ll see and experience it all. Let the landscape work its wonders and become part of you for a lifetime.

Upon departing from the city, you will travel directly to the Blue Mountains and your first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill Farm a working farm also home to Kangaroo, Emu, Wombat and Koala. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure.

From Calmsley Hill you will continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. Visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Where possible this will be away from the crowds of tours that visit the mountains each day with other operators, thus you will have the opportunity to enjoy a stress and hurry free environment taking in the views and information imparted by your guide.

Continuing on you will arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout points away from the crowds for views of the famous 3 Sisters. Whilst the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can’t help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colors. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos.

Next you will be taken around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch venue the Boiler House Cafe. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views, you can enjoy a 2-course lunch with tea or coffee. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Please note that beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar.

The afternoon is spent visiting a selection of lookouts. Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you’ll know why it’s one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. If you’re not mesmerized by the dancing waves of water spray, you’ll be transfixed by the sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness.

Then take a brief stop to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice at the delightful Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens, where you can enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before traveling down the Bells Line of Road to arrive back at your hotel approximately 4:30pm.

Operates

Daily.

Need to Know

This is a specialized small group tour with a maximum group size of 17 passengers.
Minimum of 2 guests required for tour departure.

Times

Pick-up from Sydney CBD hotel between: 7:00am – 7:30am.
Drop-off at Sydney CBD hotel between: 4:30pm – 5:00pm.
 
Inclusions

– Professional Guide
– Hotel pickup & drop off from Sydney CBD
– Small group touring
– Morning tea
– National Park Fees
– 2-Course Lunch (Beverages with meals are not included)
– Glass of Sparkling Wine
– Mt Tomah visit

Upgrades

Private Touring

Insider's Tip - Opal Shopping

Altmann & Cherny is a family owned jewellery business in Sydney with an international reputation for excellence in opals and is one of the World’s foremost Australian Opal authorities.

Australia is known as the country of origin for this splendid stone with 95% of the world’s precious gem opal found exclusively in Australia. The Australian opal displays all the colors of the rainbow; holding a spectrum of colors found in nature. It is these contrasts that make opals a truly fascinating and unique gemstone, with no two opals appearing exactly the same. In the Middle Ages the Romans considered opal a stone that could provide great luck, as it was believed to possess all the virtues of Emeralds, Sapphires and Rubies.

Established in 1948 in hopes of sharing this unique gemstone with the world, they have built a reputation of providing the highest level of quality, service and value for three generations. Their mantra has always been and will continue to be – “Excellence in service, quality and value.” So come share in this unique experience to learn more about Australian Opals at Altmann & Cherny!

Altman + Cherny
18 Pitt St., Sydney, NSW 2000 / Ph: 61 (02) 9251 9477

Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30am – 5:30pm / Saturday & Sunday 10:00am – 4:00pm

(Day 7) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia, to the Airport.

(Day 7) - Australian Domestic Flight, Sydney to Cairns (Not Included)

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to the gateway of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.

(Day 7) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation in Cairns, Australia.

Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container.

(Days 7 to 11) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Cairns

Enjoy 4 nights at your 4-Star CAIRNS accommodation.

Nestled in the tropical paradise of Cairns, this remarkable hotel captivates guests with its warm hospitality, exceptional service, and breathtaking views. The accommodations offer a harmonious blend of comfort and style, complemented by the hotel’s prime location near dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. From the inviting restaurant to the attentive staff, every aspect ensures an unforgettable stay. Discover a tranquil oasis in Cairns that promises cherished memories for discerning travelers.
 
Hotel Amenities
Free Wi-Fi, Swimming Pool, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Bar, Restaurant, Paid Parking, Room Service  
 
Preferred Room
Standard Room – 1 King or 2 Singles – Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Smart TV.
 
Room Upgrades
Past T12-15 (Other Upgraded Room Types)
– Executive Room – 1 King or 2 Singles – Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Esplanade, Trinity Inlet, or Ocean Views ; Flat Screen TV.
– Deluxe – 1 King or 2 Singles – Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Flat Screen TV.
– Tropical Luxe – 1 King or 2 Singles – Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Same level as the pool deck ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Pod coffee machine ; 42-inch Flat Screen TV.
– Tropical Luxe Premium – 1 King or 2 Singles – Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Pod Coffee Machine ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Luxury skincare & Hairdryer ; Safe ; Located on Levels 2 & 3 ; Washer & Dryer ; 50-inch Flat Screen TV ; Two-person bath.
 
Need to know
Hotel subject to availability. If this hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be substituted. Room booked will be preferred unless otherwise listed on your quote.

Insider's Tip: The Esplanade

Experience the leisurely atmosphere at the playground for locals and tourists alike at The Esplanade in Cairns!

With so many activities available The Esplanade has always been a focal point for this city. This is a place that literally has everything! Take a stroll and do some bird watching on the boardwalk but as you enjoy the views don’t forget to stop off at Foreshore Promenade for a bite to eat at the many available restaurants. Access to The Lagoon is easy here which is set overlooking the Barrier Reef and Trinity inlet and features all year free swimming where you can take a dip in this filtered saltwater lagoon. Let the kids can play in the sandy edges and in the shallow waters while you lounge on the semi-shaded timber decks. For the kids, don’t miss out on the Trinity Bay foreshore playground “Muddy” with equipment for all ages. For the older kids, stop off at the Skate Park to see some skaters and BMXers in action! Whether you decide to take a morning jog, fly a kite or just relax in the large grassy areas for some lunch you will surely enjoy the tropical lifestyle!

If you happen to be in Cairns on a Saturday be sure to check out the Weekend Markets which feature only locally made arts and crafts, clothing and much more. While you’re there listen out for the live music and fun street characters. The market gets into full swing on the promenade (just by the lagoon) every Saturday between 8am – 4pm.

Lagoon Hours: All Year, 6am-9pm
Closed Wednesdays until midday for maintenance

(Day 8) - Day Tour, Daintree Dreaming Tour

This fun, exclusive tour allows you to join in a real Aboriginal cultural experience, combining pristine natural beauty of the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park. A day you will never forget!

Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat Tours: Travel to Cooya Beach north of Port Douglas and meet with the Kubirri Warra brothers who follow the traditions of their ancestors. This special place is a traditional fishing ground of the Kuku Yalanji. This unique coastal place has three diverse ecosystems – beach, mangroves and coastal reef – that are connected to each other by the every changing mud-flats and tidal lagoons. The brothers teach their guests how to throw a spear and demonstrate how to search and hunt for fish, mud crabs and mussels. Learn about bush tucker and medicines before enjoying homemade damper on the balcony of the family home and taste your catch of the day.

Welcome to Country at Mossman Gorge: You are welcomed with a traditional ‘smoking’ ceremony. This ceremony is conducted by Aboriginal people with specialised cultural knowledge and will protect you whilst visiting Kuku Yalanji country.

Mossman Gorge Centre: Enjoy a delicious lunch infused with local flavours.

Mossman Gorge: Wander into the lush rainforest of the World Heritage Listed Daintree National Park – Mossman Gorge, home of the Kuku Yalanji people and experience one of the world’s oldest and most beauLful rainforest. An easy going walk is across boardwalks, tracks & bridges protecting the delicate eco system that adorns spectacular waterfalls and mountain ranges. Your guide will explain the rich flora, fauna and eco system of this amazing rainforest. Ensure you bring your swimming bathers so you can make the most of the beautiful private swimming hole that is encased in the rainforest.

What to bring: Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, towel, swimmers and bottle of water.

Please note: Itinerary can operate in reverse subject to tides.

Tour Operates on:
Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun

(Day 9) - Day Tour, Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Today you’ll go on a cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world, and not surprisingly the world’s most extensive coral reef.

Cruise by luxury catamaran to reef activity platforms moored at the ribbon reefs on the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Experience the unsurpassed coral formations, marine life and underwater visibility of the Agincourt Ribbon Reef system where you can explore this reef world. Visit Moore Reef, located on the outer reef, and swim and snorkel, or view the aquatic world from a semi-submersible or glass-bottom boat. Marvel at the spectacular beauty of the reef teeming with tropical fishes, and explore the colourful coral.


Visit the marine life touch tank and underwater theatre. Enjoy a buffet lunch (included). With facilities for swimmers and non-swimmers it’s sure to be fun for the whole family.

Upgrades Available at Additional Cost: Introductory & Certified Diving, Ocean Walker Helmet Dive, Adventure Snorkel Tour with Marine Biologist & Helicopter Scenic Flights.

Not Included: Fees Payable on Board: Fuel Surcharge may be applicable. Subject to change, please verify before tour.

Please bring with you: towel (available from your hotel room), a change of clothes, hat, sunscreen & underwater disposable camera (optional). Cameras available from any local chemist or convenience store.

(Day 10) - Day Tour, Kuranda Heritage Experience

A wonderful day awaits as you are transported on the historic Kuranda Scenic Rail to Kuranda. The Kuranda Boarding Pass ensures preferential seating, discounted entry into selected Kuranda Attractions and a detailed map is also included. Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens, is your next stop. Board the amphibious Army Duck and enjoy the Koala & Wildlife Park. Transfer back to Kuranda, then it’s time to board Skyrail for your return journey.



Check in: A driver will check you in at your accommodation. You special Kuranda Boarding pass offerings pre-allocated seating on the Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail, preferential seating on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a detailed map of Kuranda, and discounted entry into selected Kuranda Attractions.




Kuranda Scenic Rail: At the scheduled time board the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail. An amazing journey awaits you as you travel one of the world’s most scenic rail routes, through hand-hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges.

Kuranda Village: Once you arrive at beautiful Kuranda Station, you have ample time to explore the many and varied shops, as well as the Heritage Markets which operate daily.

Rainforestation: Your shuttle coach will transfer you to Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens and tropical rainforest, where a number of unique attractions await you. Board the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a different look at the rainforest. Also included in your tour is the Koala & Wildlife Park. The shuttle bus will then take you back to Kuranda.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Board Skyrail, an experience which takes you over the rainforest canopy with stops along the way allowing you to take a stroll or visit the CSIRO Interpretive Centre. Our hostess will meet you on completion of Skyrail and will assist with your return transfer to your accommodation.

Operates: Daily (Subject to black outs for Kuranda maintainance.) Pick-up Between 7:00-8:00am and at Return at 5:30pm (approximately).

Upgrade to Gold Class: Dedicated host service; Individual seating, lounge-style chairs; Quality refreshments including sparkling Australian wine, beer, orange juice, soft drink, ice water, mocktails, tea, coffee and appetisers and a chilled refresher towel during the journey; Ambient, historical décor, including timber look flooring, historical photographs and cedar interior; Kuranda Scenic Railway gift pack including Kuranda Scenic Railway badge, pen, postcard and postage; Souvenir trip guide

(Day 11) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Cairns vacation accommodation to the Airport in Cairns, Australia.

Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container.

(Day 11) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Brisbane (Not Included)

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Brisbane.

(Day 11) - International Flight, Brisbane to Los Angeles (Not Included)

Mid-day Departure from Brisbane, In-flight Dinner and Movie with arrival in the USA. Note: You will be traveling back across the International Date line so you will gain a day. You actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Australia.

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  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability and seasonality. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.