14 Days: Reef, Melbourne, Tasmania Road Trip [ST-RT2036]
Starting at
$4,145
Per Person
View Details
Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Port Douglas (4 Nights), Melbourne (3), Freycinet (2), Port Arthur (1), Hobart (2)
  • USA Domestic Flights are not included in pricing. Please inquire for flight pricing to be included
  • International Flights (not included - can be included on request - see detailed pricing below) - Los Angeles to Brisbane, Melbourne to Los Angeles
  • Australian Domestic Flights - Brisbane to Cairns, Cairns to Melbourne, Melbourne to Launceston, Hobart to Melbourne
  • Shuttle Transfers - Cairns Airport to Port Douglas Accommodation (Return), Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (Return)
  • Car Hire - 6 Day Car Rental for pick-up at Launceston Airport and drop-off at Hobart Airport
  • Rental Car Hires are base rate only and do not include taxes, insurance, fuel levies, drop off fees, or environmental fees
  • Day Tours - Port Douglas: Great Barrier Reef Cruise, Cape Tribulation & Daintree Wilderness Safari; Melbourne: Phillip Island Small Group with Penguins Plus
  • All other Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (additional 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 Brisbane (can be included on request)

Travel by international air to your destination.

International air to your destination is not included in the starting price. If you requested international air, this inclusion will be reflected in your quote.

Day 2 - Australian Domestic Flight, Brisbane to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Cairns.

Day 2 - 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 2 to 6 - 4 Nights Accommodation in Port Douglas

Enjoy 4 nights at your 4-Star Port Douglas accommodation.

Nestled in the heart of Port Douglas, this boutique resort offers a haven of tropical tranquility and luxury. As you step into this coastal paradise, you’ll find meticulously designed apartments that exude contemporary style and comfort. Each apartment comes with a private balcony, providing views of lush gardens, serene pools, or glimpses of the Coral Sea.
The resort is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the ancient Daintree Rainforest, with easy access to Four Mile Beach for those eager to explore Far North Queensland’s natural beauty. The lively Macrossan Street is a short stroll away, offering boutique shops, art galleries, and delightful dining options.
Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, this tropical oasis has you covered. You can choose to explore the resort’s tropical gardens, bask by the inviting pool, or simply soak in the coastal ambiance. It’s an ideal destination to make your dreams of coastal living a reality.

Hotel Amenities
Free Wifi, Swimming Pool, BBQ Facility, Bar, Restaurant, Room Service, Free Parking, Airport Transfers Extra Fee

Preferred Room
Studio Premier – 1 King Bed OR 2 Single Beds – Room Features: Kitchenette (Mini Fridge & Microwave), Private Balcony, Air Conditioning, Shower Amenities, Hairdryer, Pool Towels, WiFi, Flat Screen TV, Shower Over Bath.

Room Upgrades
Studio Superior – 1 King Bed – Room Features: Kitchenette (Mini Fridge & Microwave) ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Pool Towels ; WiFi ; Washer & Dryer ; Flat Screen TV ; Shower Over Bath ; Sun Lounges ; Direct Pool Access.

1 Bedroom Premier – 1 King Bed – Room Features: Full Kitchen ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Pool Towels ; WiFi ; Washer & Dryer ; Flat Screen TV ; Bathroom with Shower.

1 Bedroom Superior – 1 King Bed – Room Features: Full Kitchen ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Pool Towels ; WiFi ; Washer & Dryer ; Flat Screen TV ; Bathroom with Shower ; Sun Lounges ; Direct Pool Access.

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.

Day 3 - Day Tour, Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Perfect for swimmers, snorkelers, divers and non-swimmers alike! Travel from Port Douglas to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef for a day of fun and unique reef experiences!

Cruise by luxury catamaran to reef activity platforms moored at Agincourt Reef, a magnificent ribbon reef on the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef.

Here, special reefs known as ‘ribbons’ run parallel to the Continental Shelf. Adjacent to the Coral Sea trench, these ribbon reefs are recognized as the most pristine eco-systems in the reef’s environment. Clear water provides the best possible underwater visibility, encourages rich coral growth and supports spectacular marine life.

Entering the dramatic beauty of the Great Barrier Reef is an extraordinary experience. It’s a day that engages all your senses, lifts your spirit and takes you into another realm. Sharing the wonder of the world’s largest living entity, realizing its breathtaking color and majesty, seeing nature at its most perfect is an awakening and, quite simply, the memory of a lifetime.

Choose how you experience the reef:

– Visit the underwater observatory;
– View coral in the semi-submersible;
– Enjoy a talk by a marine biologist; Snorkel

Operates

Daily.

Need to Know:
– Please bring with you: towel (available from your hotel room), a change of clothes, hat, sunscreen & underwater disposable camera (optional).
– Camera’s available from any local chemist or convenience store.
– Due to fluctuation in world oil prices, it may be necessary to apply a fuel surcharge to your ticket price. In such cases, any charge will be collected upon departure. Please verify before your tour.

Times

Approximately 9:15am – 4:30pm

Inclusions

– Morning and afternoon teas on board.
– Reef presentation by marine biologist.
– Hot and cold tropical smorgasbord lunch.
– All snorkeling equipment provided.
– Stinger/Lycra Suits & Buoyancy Aids provided.
– Return Wavepiercer cruise from Port Douglas.
– Qualified lifeguard supervision.
– Underwater observatory fish & coral viewing.
– Coral viewing by semi-submersible vessels.
– Fish feeding [conducted by crew]

Upgrades

– Certified Scuba Diving (1 or 2 40-minute dives)
– Introductory Dive; Ocean Walker Helmet Diving (great for non-swimmers)
– 10 minute Scenic Flight
– Introductory or Advanced Adventure Snorkel Tour

Day 4 - Day Tour, Cape Tribulation & Daintree Wilderness Safari - Full Day

Enjoy a day exploring the rainforest and amazing landscapes of the Cape Tribulation wilderness area with a visit to Mossman Gorge Center and Cape Tribulation.



Mossman Gorge Centre: Visit the Mossman Gorge Gateway Centre for morning tea before boarding your shuttle for the transfer into Mossman Gorge. Your driver/guide will take you for a guided walk, sharing their knowledge of this enchanting rainforest environment. Learn about the fascinating secrets of one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests.



Daintree River Cruise: Reach an understanding of this wildlife environment for one hour, habitat of birds, tree snakes, unique plants and of course the estuarine crocodile.

Tropical Lunch: With special access at a private rainforest property, enjoy a short walk along a delightful rainforest creek before a delicious tropical lunch. Choice of quality steak, fish or vegetarian meal with fresh salads and fruit platter, followed by coffee or Daintree Tea.

Cape Tribulation: Walk on this world-renowned rainforest beach and admire the coastline and fringing coral reef from the Kulki Lookout.

Daintree Ice Cream Company: Enjoy an afternoon refreshment at the Daintree Ice Cream Company. Included is a delicious cup of exotic fruit ice cream, made from fruit grown on their on-site orchard. Gluten / Dairy free options are available.

Alexandra Lookout: After winding through the rainforest of the Alexandra Range, enjoy this spectacular lookout over the Daintree River estuary, Snapper Island and beyond to the Coral Sea.

Operates: Daily (Does not operate on Christmas Day); Departs around 6:45am & Returns around 7:00pm

Includes:
– Return Hotel Transfers
– Professional driver/guide
– Mossman Gorge Centre with Morning Tea
– Driver Guided Walk in Mossman Gorge
– Daintree River Cruise
– Lunch at Noah Valley in rainforest setting
– Cape Tribulation Beach & boardwalk
– Daintree Ice Cream Company
– Alexandra Lookout

Need to Know: Tour not recommended for children under 4yrs due to the length of the tour & time spent in the vehicle.

Day 5 - Free Day to Explore Port Douglas

Experience the distinctive laid back atmosphere and low-rise tropical old world charm of Port Douglas!

Experience a range of attractions from one of the many galleries to the great shopping districts. Stop for a bite to eat at the Marina Mirage and take a walk on the boardwalk while you’re there. Take a visit to Port Douglas’ first church, Saint Mary’s by the Sea and see fantastic views of the Coral Sea and distant mountains. Don’t forget to soak up the sun at Four Mile Beach or even take in a game of golf.

What ever your tastes happen to be, Port Douglas is a great place to relax and simply enjoy the many great features of this town.

Photo credit: Tourism and Events Queensland

Optional Evening Event (Not Included) - Flames in the Forest

Dine on an award winning tropical banquet including local exotic produce and Australian wines. All this as you sit in flickering candlelight by a rushing mountain creek under the canopy of the rainforest.



Journey to a hidden place, you are collected from your accommodation, and leave the highway down a winding road as the forest welcomes you into the night. In a secluded glade your evening begins greeted with sparkling wine and hors d’oeuvres you are introduced to a culture that has been in existence for over forty thousand years.




The evening unfolds as it would have many generations before with an ancient tale from the Aboriginal Dreamtime. After dessert, enjoy some Daintree tea and local coffee, explore the river surrounds or simply sit back & let the sounds of the rainforest tell its own story.

And finally, before you depart, if you leave your mark in our handmade book of trees, one tree will be planted from that signature and you will have contributed to preserve local habitats, and these soul nurturing rainforests will last another million years.

Available Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. April – December Only.
Flames of the Forest is not suitable for children under six.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sail Away to the Low Isles

Enjoy a full day experience of the Great Barrier Reef with a snorkeling and sailing excursion to Low Isles.


Relax on the white sandy beach of the island or snorkel over the magnificent coral gardens in the blue lagoon on a guided snorkel tour with a marine biologist. Along the way, swim with turtles in their beautiful natural habitat.
Hop on the glass bottom boat with reef interpretation by your skipper and explore the nature and history of Low Isles on an island heritage walk with your expert guides.
Enjoy morning and afternoon teas, a scrumptious buffet lunch, and the thrill of pure sailing. This excursion is perfect for the discerning traveler looking for a unique, special reef and island experience with a small group of likeminded people. Ideal for couples and families. Finish the day with a drop off to your accommodation.

Operates
Daily
Departs 8:30am, Returns 4:00pm (approx.)
Tour does not operate Christmas Day

Includes
– Courtesy coach transfers in Port Douglas area
– Morning tea & coffee upon boarding (Local produce) with muffins and pastries
– Afternoon tea and coffee, additional cut fresh fruit platter
– Superb tropical buffet lunch (including prawns)
– Snorkeling equipment, optical masks, seasonal Lycra snorkeling suits, wet suits & flotation devices
– Snorkeling instruction and in-water assistance
– Guided snorkel tour with a marine guide
– Glass bottom boat viewing and reef interpretation
– Eco Shamba Environmental Initiative $20 local forestation
– Low Isles heritage walk
– 4.5 hours at Tropical Low Isles
– Environment Management Charge (Government levy)

Need to Know
If intending to snorkel, passengers are required to complete a Medical Declaration for Snorkelers form (available upon booking). Please wear comfortable clothing, walking shoes, and a hat. Please bring sunscreen, sunglasses, swimwear, and a towel. Tour may be changed or cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form

Upgrades
Private chauffeur transfers (to/from Port Douglas, Cairns, Palm Cove, or Silky Oaks), Beach Sun Smart, Champagne Celebration

Day 6 - Shuttle Transfer, Port Douglas Accommodation to Cairns Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Port Douglas 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 6 - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Melbourne

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Melbourne.

Day 6 - Shuttle Transfer, Melbourne Airport to Accommodation

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

Days 6 to 9 - 3 Nights Accommodation in Melbourne

Enjoy 3 nights at your 4-Star Melbourne accommodation.

Stay at this luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Melbourne’s Central Business District! This hotel is a top-rated choice for travelers seeking a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The modern rooms are tastefully decorated and come with all necessary amenities to make your stay unforgettable.
 
Guests can unwind in the sauna after a day of exploring the city. The fitness center is perfect for fitness enthusiasts looking to maintain their routine while traveling.
 
One of the standout features of this hotel is its dining options. The stylish restaurant offers a mix of international and Australian cuisine, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available. Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast, or indulge in a delectable dinner after a day of sightseeing.
 
With its prime location, you’ll be within easy reach of Melbourne’s famous landmarks, shopping districts, and entertainment areas. Experience the vibrant energy of the city, and return to the comfort of this fantastic hotel. Don’t just take our word for it, this hotel consistently receives high ratings and positive reviews from our clients. Come and experience the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience!
 
Hotel Amenities
Free Wi-Fi, High Speed Wi-Fi, Gym, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Bar, Restaurant, Room Service, Onsite Parking, Laundry Service, Dry Cleaning
 
Preferred Room
Premiere King – 1 King or 2 Singles – Room Features: Mini Fridge, Air Conditioning, Shower Amenities, Hairdryer, Large flat screen smart TV.   
 
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.

Day 7 - Day Tour, Phillip Island Small Group with Penguins Plus

Phillip Island is home to an astounding array of wildlife, including Australia’s largest fur seal colony, little penguins and cuddly koalas. Get up close with the remarkable penguins and wildlife of Phillip Island.

Your unforgettable day will commence with a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park where you are guaranteed plenty of close encounters with an array of Australian native animals like kangaroos, wombats and echidnas.

Next stop is Phillip Island where, time/season permitting, you’ll drive to Woolamai Surf Beach to catch a glimpse of the awesome waves and die-hard surfers. Following this, you then travel over to the dramatic west coast of the island. At the Nobbies, you will stroll along the boardwalk to experience the waves crashing along this dramatic coastline and perhaps spot a few seals and some penguin nests.

Finally, your Phillip Island Day Tour is not complete without its black-tie gala event: the Penguin Parade. You will first head to the Visitor Center for a chance to shop and have a coffee. Then last but certainly not least, you will meander along the boardwalk to the viewing platform. It’s time to relax and let the show begin. The little penguins will waddle ashore, decked out in their tuxedos as they hurry off to find their burrows.

At the end of the evening, your Guide will take you back to your Melbourne hotel.

Photo Credit: Visit Victoria

Operates
Daily. Does not run on Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve.
Tour Times: Summer/Daylight Savings (1st weekend October- 1st weekend April): approximately 2:00pm-11:00pm; Winter (All Other Times of the Year): approximately 1:00pm-10:30pm. Tour duration is approximately 8-9 hours.

Includes
– Return hotel transfers
– Expert guide with extensive local knowledge
– Entry to Moonlit Sanctuary
– Entry to Phillip Island Nature Park
– Penguins Plus viewing platform

Need to Know
Maximum of 11 people per tour. Bring warm and waterproof clothing. Child pricing available.

Upgrades
– Underground viewing for an up close look of the penguins
– Guided Ranger experience

Day 8 - Free Day to Explore Melbourne

Today you’ll have the day free to Explore Melbourne City’s vast shopping centres, markets and boutiques, maybe do some souvenir shopping.

Melbourne is a Multicultural City boasting many boutique cafes, wineries and extensive shopping. You’ll also find it very easy to get around on the trains and trams, especially within the inners of Melbourne.

Photo Credit: Tourism Victoria

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - The Melbourne Foodie Walk (3 Hours)

Discover the best of Melbourne’s food scene on this fun, small group walking tour!

Melbourne is a mecca for food with an eating culture bordering on the obsessive, but many of the best places are hidden from first sight in laneways and behind doors.

This small group walking tour lets you experience the best of what Melbourne offers. Relax with a coffee at one of Melbourne’s best cafes, eat authentic Chinese dumplings, sneak in a sweet treat, and finish it off with a drink in a laneway bar with the locals.

As you explore Melbourne, you’ll learn about the city’s fascinating past and incredible present with commentary from your expert guide, a passionate local in the know of Melbourne’s secret hot spots.

Operates
Monday – Saturday
Departs 1:30pm, Returns 4:30pm (approx.)
Tour does not operate Good Friday, Easter weekend and Monday, Anzac Day, Queen’s Birthday,
Melbourne Cup Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Day, Australia Day, and Labour Day

Includes
– Discovering the foods of modern Australia
– Tasting of authentic Chinese dumplings
– French style sweet treats
– Tasting of hand-made gelato
– Treat at Melbourne’s most unique chocolate store
– Coffee at one of Melbourne’s best cafes
– A drink in a laneway bar the locals love
– Expert commentary on Melbourne’s fascinating past and incredible present
– Small groups, relaxed style

Need to Know
Participants are responsible for transportation to and from the tour. Minimum 2 and maximum 10 participants per tour. Children 0 – 9 can participate free of charge and included in head count, but cannot be included in tastings. Children 10 and older are at adult rate. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Please bring a water bottle and an umbrella if it is raining. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form

Upgrades
Private tours available for 4 or more participants

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Aboriginal Heritage Walk (1.5 hours)

Journey into the ancestral lands of the Kulin nation and explore their rich and thriving culture on this award winning walk in Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens.

Experience a traditional smoking ceremony with Indigenous Guides and learn about traditional uses of plants for food and medicine.

In the heart of Melbourne, the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens occupy what was once a traditional camping and meeting place for the Boonwurrung and Woiwurrung people.

Today, you can participate in one of the most interesting walking tours in the city. Local Aboriginal guides take you on a journey which incorporates the themes of spirit, connection and land.

Stories and culture of the original inhabitants are introduced, along with the plant lore of traditional foods and medicine, tools and ceremony on this award-winning tour.

Operates
Sunday and Thursday only. Tours depart at 11:00am and end at 12:30pm. Does not operate on December 25 and January 1.

Need to Know
Minimum age required is 12 years. Wheelchair accessible. This is an outdoor activity, please wear appropriate clothing for weather conditions and appropriate footwear.

Inclusions
– Entry fee to Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne
– Experienced Aboriginal guide
– Tea

Upgrades
– Private tour option available

Insider's Tip: Melbourne City Circle Tram

The Melbourne City Circle Tram travels a rectangular route along Flinders, Spring, LaTrobe and Spencer Streets right around the Melbourne city centre.

Not only is travel completely free on the City Circle Tram but you get a running commentary on the places of interest along its route. You can get off the tram at any of its stops, so you can visit particular attractions at close hand, and catch the next one.

Trams run in both directions every 12 minutes, seven days a week between 10am and 6pm (except Christmas Day and Good Friday), and during daylight-saving extended hours, 10am to 9pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Alternatively, there is a Free Tram Zone for all trams operating in Melbourne’s CBD. These free trams do not offer on-board commentary but are a convenient way to get around the city.

Day 9 - Shuttle Transfer, Melbourne Accommodation to Airport

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

Day 9 - Australian Domestic Flight, Melbourne to Launceston

Travel within Australia by Domestic Air from Melbourne to Launceston Tasmania.

Days 9 to 14 - 6 Day Car Rental, for Launceston to Hobart

Discover Australia as you travel by rental car for six days.

As part of your vacation self-drive Australia and explore our stunning landscapes, coastlines, regional towns and wildlife. Stop and meet the locals, maybe enjoy a counter meal at a local Aussie pub, or relax on the beach while sampling some takeaway fish & chips from the local deli or servo. During one of your rest stops try to spot a kangaroo, emu or even a Koala in the wild.

Please bring a valid American driver’s license with you and be aware that the Australians drives on the left hand side of the road.

Base rate only paid by About Australia. GPS, Insurance, Premium Location Surcharge, Fuel and Fees to driver’s credit card.

Day 9 - Self Drive from Launceston to Freycinet National Park

Self-drive from Launceston to your accommodation in Freycinet with a few stops along the East Coast Wine Trail and a hike to see the famous view of Wineglass Bay Lookout.

*Please drive responsibly. Have a designated driver or use the spit bucket when wine tasting.

It is about 2.5 hours drive point to point, but you’ll want to allow a full day to enjoy the stops.

*Note: Please check vineyard websites for opening hours as some are only open by appointment.

From Launceston head south towards Campbell Town, then make your way east to spend the day exploring Freycinet.

Suggested stops include:

Craigie Knowe Vineyard
A lovely rustic cellar door, Craigie Knowe is the oldest vineyard on the East Coast of Tasmania. The first vines were planted in 1979, by then Hobart dentist John Austwick. He was such a pioneer of the time, with many local farmers thinking he was crazy, but they quickly realized John was onto something and planted their own vines.

A passionate Bordeaux Blend Cabernet fan, John initially planted Cab Sav, Cab Franc, Merlot and Petite Verdot, but Pinot and Riesling soon followed. He made his own wine on site in what is now the Cellar Door, and built a great reputation as an exceptional winemaker.

Today, you can enjoy a gourmet vineyard plate, cheese board or chocolate and wine experiences and have a chat to owners Sandy and Glenn while sampling award winning wines.

Devil’s Corner Cellar Door and Lookout
The Devil’s Corner Cellar Door and Lookout is located by the edge of Moulting Lagoon on Tasmania’s beautiful East Coast and provides spectacular views across the Lagoon to the Hazards at Coles Bay.

The new, architecturally designed Tower provides the perfect location to enjoy the view, while the recently opened cellar door provides tastings of the award winning Devil’s Corner wines, many exclusive to the cellar door.

The Fishers Seafood is located next to the cellar door and serves the freshest seafood, including oysters and mussels from the Lagoon and local fish straight off the boats.

Tombolo Cafe sit on the other side of the cellar door, and utilize local ingredients to produce a range of wood fired pizza’s along with freshly made gelato and espresso coffee.

Freycinet Vineyard
Freycinet Vineyard is a family-run vineyard and winery overlooking Tasmania’s famed Freycinet National Park.

Established in 1980 by Geoff and Susie Bull, the east coast site was selected for its ideal microclimate – long sunshine hours and lean soils that encourage vines to focus on fruit not foliage. The family tradition of winemaking is continued by their daughter Lindy and her husband Claudio Rodenti.

You will observe the traditional techniques of barrel fermentation and maturation. Tight-grain French oak casks are used and minimal intervention ensures the wines retain their maximum color and flavor.

You can sample some of the vineyard’s handcrafted wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling/Schonburger, cabernet sauvignon and the Rodenti sparkling, against the spectacular backdrop of the Freycinet Peninsula. The vineyard is open to the public for tastings seven days a week, 364 days a year. There are no tours of the vineyard.

Freycinet Visitor Centre
Make a stop at the Visitor Centre as you enter the park.

Wineglass Bay Lookout Track
This popular 1.86 mile (3K) trail takes you to one of the most stunning views in all of Tasmania. Wineglass Bay’s sensual shape and breathtakingly blue water has a white sandy beach exclamation point. It’s simply not to be missed. But, to actually see the wineglass shape of the bay, you’ll have to hike a bit to get to this elevated lookout.

Despite the ascent, this trail is suitable for just about everyone. You’ll have to bring plenty of water and wear a bit of sunscreen, as the hike is mostly exposed, hot and dry. The track is well-worn and takes you over compact granite to some steps that are suitable for most. There are signs everywhere and you’ll likely encounter plenty of people so there is no risk of getting lost. It may be a hard trek up, but it is well worth the effort. If you are keen, you can hike down to the beach too!

Check out more stops on The East Coast Wine Trail.

View Map on Google.

Image Credit: Tourism Australia & Graham Freeman

Days 9 to 11 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Freycinet National Park

Stay at your vacation accommodation in Freycinet National Park for 2 nights.

Sensitively sited in coastal bushland within the boundary of the Freycinet National Park, your lodge is the ideal accommodation for holiday makers by day and a comfortable haven at night as the sun sets across the waters of Great Oyster Bay.

The Lodge is approximately 28km from the junction, just inside the Freycinet National Park boundary putting you as close as possible to the natural beauty of Freycinet. You can arrange a National Parks Pass at the Visitor Centre to gain access to your accommodation at the Lodge.

With a spectacular waterfront location at the foot of The Hazards, just inside Freycinet National Park, the Lodge is a superb base for exploring the Freycinet peninsula.

A world of hidden comfort, the Lodge is living proof that communing with nature does not have to mean roughing it. It is a place to relax and rejuvenate. To experience nature’s wild harmony without sacrificing your creature comforts.

Stylish yet simple, the Lodge’s cabins are designed to impart welcoming familiarity and warmth without the intrusion of telephones or television. The Lodge has successfully integrated superb accommodation with the environment.

Enjoy exquisite cuisine, fresh produce and local wines at in Freycinet. With panoramic views of Great Oyster Bay, The Bay Restaurant offers premium dining featuring superb local seafood. Overlooking Coles Bay, Richardson’s Bistro offers delicious casual dining complimented with a great range of Tasmanian wines and beers.

Day 10 - Free Day to Explore Freycinet

Rest, Relax or Explore Freycinet

Freycinet National Park with its pink granite mountains is a long peninsula jutting out into the Tasman Sea on Tasmania’s east coast. The park is famous for Wineglass Bay, just one of its white sandy beaches and the pure clear turquoise waters that are perfect for sea kayaking, swimming, and scuba diving. The Hazard Range offer climbing abseiling and mountain walking, and the coastal heath lands have wonderful day walks.

For bird lovers there is the chance to see a white-bellied sea-eagle gliding overhead or large Australasian gannet diving for food in the ocean. In the busy and forested areas you will often see or hear small nectar-feeding birds such as eastern spinebill and yellow-throated, crescent or New Holland honeyeaters. You may also see or hear large yellow-tailed black cockatoos, which often feed and fly in raucous groups. Moulting Lagoon Game Reserve, just outside the park on the Coles Bay road is a wetland of international importance.

For spectacular coastal views visit Cape Tourville lighthouse and take the cliff top walk.

Photo Credit: Tourism Tasmania

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Wineglass Bay Cruise

Wineglass Bay, nestled underneath the Hazards Mountain range, is a location of primeval peace and beauty. Experience the tranquility from a truly unique perspective with an award winning Wineglass Bay cruise.

Step aboard for an unforgettable 4 hour cruise. The experienced and friendly crew will guide you through the sights and history of the Freycinet Peninsula; taking you from the gentle shores of Coles Bay, to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches in Wineglass Bay.  Stop for lunch at Wineglass Bay and enjoy some of Tasmania’s finest fresh produce, selected by the head chef at Freycinet Lodge.

Let go of the every day and absorb the serenity of your destination.  The scenery is stunning, the wildlife abundant, and you will experience a rare, intimate outlook on one of Tasmania’s most extraordinary places. Seal, dolphin and whale spotting, while not guaranteed is a high possibility on this trip!

Operates
Daily
Some Back out days apply

Times
Half Day Tour
Approx. 10:00am – 2:30pm

Highlights & Inclusions
– A unique perspective of the Freycinet Peninsula’s incredible sheer granite cliffs, sea caves & hidden coves
– A rare opportunity to experience Wineglass Bay from the water
– Ploughman’s lunch of delicious Tasmanian produce prepared by the Head Chef at Freycinet Lodge
– Highly skilled, local skipper with vast knowledge of the rich natural history, geology, eco systems & heritage of the Freycinet Peninsula
– Abundant wildlife sightings including sea birds, penguins, dolphins, seals and whales (All wildlife sightings are collated and data recorded for Tasmanian Marine Conservation)

Need to Know

– Please advice of any dietary requirements at time of booking

Upgrades Available
The Sky Lounge
– Upper deck seating
– Direct access to bridge & captain
– Ploughman’s lunch + drinks, freshly shucked local oysters & seasonal seafood tasting

Insider's Tip: Freycinet Walks

Visit one of the world’s top 10 beaches, take in the azure blue waters and white sand that make this region famous. Freycinet is rugged and dramatic with the friendliest wallabies ever! Bring your swim gear.

Walking is the best way to really experience Freycinet National Park. Choose from easy strolls to challenging treks and take a morning, afternoon or full day to explore the beaches, coastline and mountains of Freycinet National Park.

Wineglass Bay Lookout – 1-1½ hours’ return

This walk will reward you with your first, unforgettable view of one of the world’s best beaches, Wineglass Bay. From the start of the well-formed rocky track at the Wineglass Bay car park, take the short, but quite steep climb to reach the saddle between Mt Amos and Mt Mayson. Here, you can take the side track to the lookout and absorb the unarguably stunning views of Wineglass Bay.

Wineglass Bay – 2½ hours return

Leave early for this walk, as you will want to stay and take your time to absorb the extraordinary beauty of one of Tasmania’s most celebrated places.

From the Wineglass Bay lookout, continue your walk downhill through the open forest until you reach the fine, white silica sand of Wineglass Bay beach. This long, perfectly arched crescent of sand is lapped by clear turquoise blue water, and presided over by the rugged bulk of The Hazards. A twenty-minute walk to the southern end of the beach will give you the best views of these imposing formations.

Hazards Beach – 5-6 hours’ return

Follow the Wineglass Bay track to the lookout, and then downhill until just before you reach Wineglass Bay. Here, take the track to the right, which leads to a flat, 30-minute walk to Hazards Beach. Take some time to explore the long gentle sands of this beach. You may see evidence of Aboriginal occupation here in the form of ancient shell middens. Watch for abundant birdlife, shy browsing wallabies or even a glimpse of dolphins or whales offshore. Return along the beach to the track and your return walk to the Wineglass Bay car park.

Wineglass Bay/Hazards Beach circuit – 4 to 5 hours

Take a full day to enjoy this walk, which will lead you through diverse coastal vegetation and forest, along tranquil, empty beaches and onto the shoulders of mountains to reveal some of the most superb coastal landscapes and scenery to be found in Tasmania. This walk leads you from the start of the track to Wineglass Bay and across the isthmus to Hazards Beach. After following the beach to its northern end, you’ll join another track, which traces the coastline around the base of Mt Mayson before returning to the Wineglass Bay car park.

Mt Amos – 3 hours’ return

Those who enjoy a physical challenge and an unforgettable view will be rewarded for their efforts on this walk. The track to the summit of Mt Amos, part of The Hazards range, is steep and physically demanding. This walk will reward experienced, well-prepared walkers with panoramic views of Freycinet Peninsula.

Cape Tourville Lighthouse – 20 minute circuit

Just 15 minutes’ drive from Coles Bay, this easy circuit walk offers spectacular views of Sleepy Bay, Wineglass Bay and along the coast towards Bicheno. The 600 metre track is wide and even with gently graded slopes and is suitable for walkers with strollers.

Built in 1971, the Cape Tourville Lighthouse replaced the inaccessible, decommissioned Cape Forestier Lighthouse. Cape Tourville Lighthouse was constructed as an automatic light and was never manned.

Good walking boots, appropriate clothing for the weather conditions, a map, water and adequate food are essential when bushwalking in Tasmania.

Day 11 - Self Drive from Freycinet to Port Arthur

The drive from Coles Bay in Freycinet to your Port Arthur Accommodation is about 3 hours.

From Freycinet Bay you will head down to Port Arthur. You might want to make a stop in Triabunna, a scenic port town and the major civic centre for Tasmania’s east coast.

Continue on to Port Arthur by crossing Eaglehawk Neck, a narrow isthmus connecting the Tasman Peninsula to mainland Tasmania. The area has a beautiful and rugged terrain and several unusual geological formations. These include the Tessellated Pavement, an area of flat rock that looks to be manmade but is in fact formed by erosion.

Also nearby are Tasman’s Arch, the Blowhole and the Devil’s Kitchen, all striking natural formations. End this day in Port Arthur, a small town and former convict settlement on the Tasman Peninsula. Port Arthur is one of Australia’s most significant heritage areas and the open air museum is officially Tasmania’s top tourist attraction.

Click to View Map

Days 11 to 12 - 1 Night Accommodation in Port Arthur

Travel to your accommodation where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Your accommodation is nestled between a beautiful beach, a forest, the calming ocean, a world heritage listed national park and Australia’s profound Port Arthur Historic Site.

This lodge offers a variety of quality self-contained cabin and chalet accommodation with restaurant, function rooms and recreation facilities all surrounded by a white-sand beach, crystal clear ocean waters and beautiful woodlands. The spectacular views reflect immense physical beauty and natural diversity as well as the allure of incredible history, adventure and private relaxation.

This is the ideal base from which to explore Tasmania’s famous Tasman Peninsula with its world-renowned historic site and its many natural wonders that delight families, tourists and nature lovers.

Standard lodging is a 1 bedroom bush-view log cabin. Request pricing to be upgraded to a water view, deluxe spa chalets, or 2-3 Bedroom accommodations.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Tasman Island Wilderness Cruise (3 hours)

See the unspoilt, rugged beauty of Southern Tasmania’s coastline on this three-hour award-winning wilderness cruise. Our safe, fast and comfortable boats ensure you’re right in the adventure – seeing everything up close, feeling every thrill and experiencing nature first hand.

Towering cliff walls, cascading waterfalls, frolicking dolphins, playful seals and sunbathing Tasmanian devils – this is not your regular sightseeing tour. This is a tour of Tasmania’s incredible natural beauty and wildlife.

Marvel at the high cliff walls, spot dolphins and seals and if you’re lucky, you might spot a migrating whale! Be sure to bring a camera – you’ll want to capture these magnificent sights to look back on.

After your cruise you can enjoy lunch at the Port Arthur Historic Site (entry and meal own expense), and once you’ve had your hearty fill prepare for Australia’s best-known symbol of its convict past if you choose to tour the site (own expense).

Over its long history, Port Arthur has been a place of hardship and punishment, a place of opportunity, and a place of leisure. Now it is one of Australia’s most important heritage destinations, where the story of Australia’s colonial history is written in stone and brick.

Meet some of the people who have passed through this place, walk where their stories unfolded, and learn about Port Arthur’s evolution from a feared convict settlement to a World Heritage-listed Historic Site and world-class tourist destination.

Operates:
Daily, except Christmas Day
Departs 10:00am or 2:00pm (3 hour duration)

Includes:
– Three-hour wilderness cruise

Need to Know:
Please wear warm, comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes. Please bring a jacket, scarf, gloves and camera. This cruise departs from Port Arthur – transfers are not included from Hobart. Drive south from Hobart about 90 minutes to Port Arthur. Entry to the historical site is not included in tour price.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Entry into Tasmanian Devil Park

Come face to face with endangered devils, hand feed friendly kangaroos and join some crazy parrots in Tasmania’s only free-flight bird show! You’ll love the concept of the “unzoo”, a reversal of the traditional zoo.

Instead of exhibiting animals in traditional enclosures for the benefit of humans, an Unzoo invites us into natural habitats in which cages or barriers are removed or concealed and wild, as well as resident animals, are encouraged to interact with the environment.

You can take a delightful walk through the native botanical garden filled with majestic eucalypts and streamside ferneries. Your visit will help efforts to save the unique and very precious little devils.

Learn about the Tasmanian Devils and other Australian wildlife at regularly scheduled presentations throughout the day, included in your entry fee.

Open
Daily

Times
9:30am – 5:00pm

Highlights & Inclusions
– Entry
– Scheduled presentations: Tasmanian devil feeding, Kangaroo hand feeding, Birds of the bush flight presentation, Water front nature walk, Wild rosella feeding, Possum encounter,

Need to Know
– Plan your trip around the presentations you wish to see.
– Does not include Devil Tracker Adventure

Insider's Tip: Port Arthur Historic Site

Travel to the historic site of Port Arthur, set amid the tall dark forests of the Tasman Peninsula.

The Visitor Centre is open from 8:30am until after the last Historic Ghost Tour at night. Tours operate and buildings are open at various times between 9am and 5pm. Please check today’s times at the Visitor Centre and in the signs. The grounds ruins are open from 8:30 am until dusk.

Enjoy a guided walking tour, interpretation gallery, interactive centre where you can play the Lottery of Life game and harbour cruise (excluding August) around the Isle of the Dead and Boys Prison. Take in the spectacular views of Pirates Bay Lookout and Eaglehawk Neck. See the glorious Port Arthur Formal Gardens and visit the Port Arthur Museum. Hear spine-tingling stories of strange events going back to convict days as you experience the atmosphere of the site at night on a Historic Ghost Tour.

Photo Credit: Tourism Tasmania

Day 12 - Self Drive from Port Arthur to Hobart

Today you will leave Port Arthur and head out on a lovely drive towards Hobart.

This is a quick drive so take your time, maybe stop to see Martin Cash’s Lookout or walk along the beach at Eaglehawk Neck. And if you’re a history buff be sure to stop in Sorell, one of Tasmania’s oldest towns. There are 3 historic churches, including the impressive St. George’s Anglican Church on Gordon Street. Stop by the barracks and Sorell Antiques where you will find all kinds of treasures from the past. Or visit the Sorell Fruit Farm where you can pick all sorts of stone and berry fruits in season, before ending in Hobart. 

Click to View Map

Photo Credit: Tourism Tasmania

Days 12 to 14 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Hobart

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

Renowned for spacious rooms and friendly hospitality, this property is centrally located – within a stone’s throw of the city centre and just a block from Hobart’s waterfront. From here it’s just a gentle stroll to Salamanca Place and its legendary market, restaurants, harbour and waterside festivities, such as the annual Taste of Tasmania.

Day 13 - Free Day to Explore Hobart

Rest, Relax or Explore Hobart

Hobart is Tasmania’s harbour capital, located in the south-east of the state at the foot of majestic Mount Wellington.

Head down to Salamanca Place where you will find 19th-century waterfront warehouses dating back to the 1830s whaling days. Today, they house cafes, restaurants, galleries and art studios, the ideal place to wander or enjoy alfresco dining.

Polished glass winks in the windows of settlers’ cottages in nearby Battery Point, and brass doorknobs gleam in the lofty porches of colonial edifices. Hobart is a city of warm sandstone, bright spinnakers on the water, fish punts at the docks and coffee under the sun umbrellas of Salamanca where the famous Salamanca Market is held every Saturday.

Square-riggers still put out on the River, tacking among the yachts and fishing boats. Parliament House looks out on its lawns, once the market garden for old Hobart Town and historic Government House sits serenely in its park on the city’s northern fringe, where cows graze as they always have in their city-centre paddock.

Get involved in Hobart’s busy arts scene. You can take in art, craft, music and theatre at Salamanca Arts Centre and the surrounding warehouses. Learn about the Island and the city’s history and contemporary life at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery on Macquarie Street. The already world famous MONA has redefined both art and ‘museuming’, and is just 15mins from downtown. Drive in, or cruise upriver for a unique experience.

You can hang out to the sounds of South American flutes, pub rock, street buskers and string quartets, and theatrical performances both classic and contemporary. In galleries and studios, our artists and craftspeople make bold and beautiful statements in pigments, metal, wood, glass, pottery and fabrics.

Just out of the city you can visit some of Tasmania’s finest wineries, head up the mountain for a walk to the springs or travel down The Channel towards Bruny Island.

Photo Credit: Tourism Tasmania & Peter Baillie

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Bruny Island Full Day with Lunch

Untouched wilderness and ocean coast wildlife. The spectacle of massive stark cliffs shaped by the forces of nature. Have it all on this award-winning tour that will take your breath away!

Embrace the power of the ocean at Bruny Island and experience Tasmanian wilderness at its best. Join in the search for the abundant coastal wildlife such as the beautiful migrating whales and dolphins that usually choose to swim alongside your boat! Stay on the lookout and you will undoubtedly spot seals and birds, for there are over a thousand Australian Fur Seals and sea birds nesting in the area.

You will also see the Monument, Nature’s Cathedral stark 300-meter-high Jurassic dolerite cliffs, Breathing Rock – an explosive blow hole and Triassic sandstone cliffs, and pristine untouched rainforests and beaches.

Come and experience the stunning sea caves and rock formations for this once in a lifetime tour.

Operates:
Daily, except Christmas Day. Departs 7:45am, Returns 5:30pm

Includes:
– Transfer from Hobart Franklin Wharf to Ferry Crossing
– Bruny Island ferry crossing
– Morning tea
– 3 Hour wilderness cruise
– Lunch: premium fish & chips, or delicious homemade pumpkin soup and a gourmet salad roll with your choice of Tasmanian Salmon or local ham
– Sightseeing on Bruny Island by bus
– Hobart Hotel drop-off

Need to Know:
Please wear warm, comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes. Please bring a jacket, scarf, gloves and camera. Dietary requirements must be advised at booking.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included), Wine Meets Art at Moorilla & MONA

Wine and art. A match made in the proverbial. This tour takes you to the world famous MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art and gives you an in-depth look at the second oldest winery in Tasmania.

Mona, the Museum of Old and New Art, is Australia’s largest privately owned gallery and museum. Showcasing the diverse collection of its owner, Tasmanian gambler David Walsh, the collection ranges from ancient Egyptian funerary objects to modernist masterpieces and international contemporary art. Since opening in 2011, visitors have been drawn to Mona’s picturesque site on the banks of the River Derwent, which also features luxury accommodation, a restaurant, vineyard and winery; amongst other things.
Begin your day by taking Mona’s MR-1 Fast Ferry from Hobart’s Brooke Street Pier to Mona. Entry to the museum is included in your tour, giving you free reign to explore its permanent collection and an array of blockbuster exhibitions. Check the website to see what’s on: mona.net.au.
After your art fix, wander up to the Wine Bar and watch the winemakers at work. Enjoy a charcuterie plate (or a seasonal vegetarian option) and fresh house-baked bread, all matched with a glass of wine from Moorilla’s Muse or Praxis Series.
The behind-the-scenes winery tour and wine tasting starts in the vineyard (the second oldest in Tasmania, mind you). Follow the trail of grapes as they are handpicked, crushed, pressed, fermented and matured. Witness how new and old artisan winemaking techniques are used to craft fragrant, elegant and classical wines. Your expert host will provide an overview of the history of the region and winery, as well as information on the winemaking process and the ten different grape varieties grown on site. The tasting features ten different wines including a selection from Moorilla’s prestigious Cloth Label Series.
End your day by taking Mona’s MR-1 Fast Ferry from Mona to Hobart’s Brooke Street Pier at 5.

Operates

Includes
– Return ferry transfers from Hobart Pier
– MONA entry
– Lunch with 1 glass of wine
– Guided vineyard and winery tour
– Tutored wine tasting

Need to Know
This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form. 18 years and older permitted.

Upgrades
Moorilla’s Posh-As Day at MONA

Insider's Tip, Salamanca Market Tip

The award-winning Salamanca Market is Tasmania’s most visited tourist attraction and one of the largest outdoor markets in all of Australia.

This iconic Saturday tradition brings Hobart’s waterfront alive with a celebration of the senses. In a vibrant atmosphere of cultural commerce, over 300 stallholders line the street from sunrise where locally crafted products include Tasmanian timber treasures and homewares, unique clothing and jewelry, fresh and seasonal produce, artwork, leather goods, soaps and skincare, artisan cheeses, breads, wines and spirits as well as tasty “on the go” eats. The historic sandstone warehouses form the background to this bustling event, with the waterfront beckoning just alongside.

Where Is It?
Salamanca Place, on Hobart Waterfront

When Is It?
8:30 am – 3:00 pm, every Saturday

Day 14 - Australian Domestic Flight, Hobart to Melbourne

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Hobart to Melbourne.

Day 14 - International Flight, Melbourne to Los Angeles(can be included on request)

Travel by international air to your destination.

International air to your destination is not included in the starting price. If you requested international air, this inclusion will be reflected in your quote.

 
Detailed Pricing
Approximate Pricing Double Occupancy Sole Occupancy Permitted USA Departure Dates & Fare Rules
Land Content Only $4,549 $6,302 International return flights from the USA are not included. Please see detailed itinerary (above) for more information on inclusions. Itinerary can commence any day (subject to availability).
Special (Economy Class) $5,638 $7,391 2024-08-07 00:00:00 - 2024-09-18 00:00:00
USA Departures: 07AUG24 - 18SEP24. Expires 26 JUN 2024.
International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable, Non-Changeable. Other Dates may also apply. For details phone Toll-Free: (888)359 2877
Basic (Economy Class) $6,370 $8,123 Basic: May 1 - Jun 8 & Jul 24 - Sep 21, 2022. International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable. Changeable (Fees Apply). Subject to Availability.
Shoulder (Economy Class) $6,473 $8,226 Shoulder: Feb 1 - Apr 30, Jun 9 - Jul 23 & Sep 22 - Dec 8, 2022. International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable. Changeable (Fees Apply). Subject to Availability.
Peak (Economy Class) $7,183 $8,936 Peak: Dec 9, 2022 - Jan 31, 2023. International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Non-Refundable. Changeable (Fees Apply. Subject to Availability.
Premium (Economy Class) $8,163 $9,916 Premium Economy Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Change and Cancellation Fees Apply. Subject to Availability.
Business Class $11,070 $12,822 Business Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Subject to Availability.
  • a) All prices are USD$/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.