Australia

Itineraries

Sydney, Brisbane, Great Barrier Reef [L06]

12 Days / 10 Nights - Sydney, Brisbane, Great Barrier Reef

Your first stop is breathtaking metropolis Sydney, Australia's oldest city, the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country's capital in everything but name. It's blessed with sun-drenched natural attractions, dizzy skyscrapers, delicious and daring restaurants, superb shopping and friendly folk. Choose from the many optional tours that are available.

Your next stop is no less charming. Brisbane has emerged as one of the country's most progressive centres. Brisbane has several interesting districts, a good street cafe scene, a great riverside park, a busy cultural calendar and a thriving nightlife. Brisbane is also a thriving arts capital, with dozens of theatres, cinemas, concert halls, galleries and museums.

The colourful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, Cairns city is alive with life and charm. Here, warm northern hospitality and enthusiasm are the order of the day. Take day trips from Cairns to visit the Rainforest and go snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef. How exciting can life get?

Features

• Accommodation - Sydney (3 Nights), Brisbane (2 Nights), Cairns (5 Nights)
• Day Tours - Sydney: Opera House; Blue Mountains & Wildlife; Cairns: Wildlife Dome, Great Barrier Reef Cruise; Kuranda Rainforest Highlights
• All other day tours are optional and not included.
• Shuttle Transfers - Sydney; Brisbane; Cairns: Airport to Accommodation (Return)
• International Flights - Los Angeles to Sydney; Brisbane to Los Angeles
• Australian Domestic Flights - Sydney to Brisbane; Brisbane to Cairns; Cairns to Brisbane
• USA Domestic Flights (Not Included) - Own Arrangements
• All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
• Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
• Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (US$15.00 per person)
• F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. Not an Organized Group Tour)

Detailed Itinerary

(Day 1) - International Flight - Los Angeles to Sydney

After departing from Los Angeles, you will be provided with an evening meal, you can relax, have a drink, watch a movie and 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)

The Qantas Boeing 747-400 is equipped with the latest entertainment features of any Airline. The overnight flight to Australia can be a good opportunity for sleeping or to watch the latest movies after your evening meal.

(Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer Sydney Airport to Accommodation

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

(Days 2 to 5) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

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

Embrace Sydney's best location with this four star vacation accommodation ideally nestled in the heart of the city. Overlooking Wynyard Park you will enjoy this icon of time-honored tradition, warm hospitality and friendly personal service. Just a short stroll away from many famous attractions including the Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, The Royal Botanical Gardens and more. You will love the luxury of the close accessibility to public transportation including light rail access, train station, the bus system and nearby Circular Quay which will allow you to see much more of Sydney and surrounds. Featuring: 446 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, 2 restaurants, 4 bars, indoor heated pool, sauna, spa, and gymnasium. Amenities: air conditioning, daily maid service, fridge, iron & board, radio channels, shower, coffee & tea, ensuite bathroom, hair dryer, shaving adaptor, sprinklers, smoke detectors, television, telephone, internet access (broadband), data port, wake up calls, mini bar, and 24 hour room service. With all this and more take time out to experience the wonders of Sydney while enjoying all your accommodation has to offer.

Upgrade Available (Upon Request): Stunning 5 Star Property

(Day 2) - Day Tour - Sydney Opera House Tour

On your vacation participate in an inspiring tour of the opera house in Sydney, Australia.

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 Theatre 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.

Insider's Tip - Sydney Explorer City Tour (1/2 to Full Day)

Spend the afternoon touring Sydney's attractions.

The Sydney Explorer has 26 stops, offering an amazing insight into the history and majesty of Australia's most popular city. From the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House to Darling Harbour and Kings Cross, with plenty in between. You can hop on and off this service or if you prefer to stay on the coach, the full circuit will take around 2 hours to complete.

Insider's Tip - Opal Shopping

View the world famous "Black Opal" the "Aurora Australis" valued at "1 Million Dollars" with the opportunity to bring home the colors of Australia with a beautiful piece of opal jewelry.

Australia is known as the country of origin for this splendid stone with 95% of the world's precious gem opal found in exclusively in Australia. Australian opal displays all the colors of the rainbow and holds a spectrum of colors found in nature, fire, the ocean and more. 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 Ruby’s.

Share this unique experience and be educated about Australian Opal at Altmann & Cherny. Established in 1948 with hopes of sharing this unique gemstone with the world, they have built a reputation of excellence with 3 generations actively involved the families are considered leading opal experts. Please visit them at:

18 Pitt Street
Sydney, NSW
Telephone: 61 2 9251 9477

(Day 3) - Free Day to Explore

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.

The Monorail connection to the City Center provides quick transit, or walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or to the lovely tree-lined beach suburb of Manly. 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 Cruise Tour ( 1/2 Day)

At midday enjoy a harbour lunch cruise followed by a scenic tour of Sydney's suburbs & beaches. 1/2 Day Tour Afternoon

Midday enjoy an unforgettable Sydney Harbour luncheon cruise on one of the worlds most attractive harbours. The cruise offers a la carte dining, million dollar views, licensed bar, first class service and quality contemporary Australian cuisine. In the afternoon tour Kings Cross and Bondi Beach. Walk along the beach, see cosmopolitan Kings Cross, exclusive Double Bay and stop at Sydney's famous Mrs. Macquarie's Chair before returning to your Hotel early evening. Evening free - maybe see a show at the Sydney Opera House (bookings well in advance required).

(Day 4) - Day Tour - Blue Mountains and Australian Wildlife

On your vacation, discover the spectacular Blue Mountains via deluxe coach and see native wildlife Explore World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, located outside of Sydney, Australia.

This rugged and beautiful region forms part of the Great Dividing Range, linking tropical north to temperate south, while dividing coastal cities from the vast Outback. Pass by Homebush Bay, site of the 2000 Olympics. Discover Leura village, a delightful blend of groomed gardens and quaint shops, enjoy free time to wander the streets of Leura. Next we stop at Echo Point and see the famous Three Sisters rock formation. Travel through Katoomba, heart of the resort region within the Blue Mountains National Park and discover the remarkable beauty of Blue Mountains National Park, enjoy an easy walk or Visit Echo Point Lookout, see the Three Sisters and hear the ancient Aboriginal legends of this impressive rock formation, hear traditional Aboriginal Dreamtime tales interpreting the creation of local landmarks. Enjoy a 2 course hot lunch with tea, coffee or soft drink. Join the optional Blue Mountain rides - Scenic Railway, Cableway or Skyway (own expense). These are great ways to see the steep valleys, canyons and Three Sisters rock formation. Enjoy a short stop at Cahills Lookout for impressive mountain scenery. Next we enjoy an afternoon encounter at Koala Park and have your photo taken with a cuddly koala, see kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and cute little fairy penguins. Full Day Tour.

(Day 5) - Shuttle Transfer Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

(Day 5 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight - Sydney to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to Brisbane.

(Day 5 cont) - Shuttle Transfer Brisbane Airport to Accommodation

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

(Days 5 to 7) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Brisbane

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

Your 3 Star vacation accommodation is conveniently located in Brisbane's city centre. It is within walking distance to the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct, Treasury Casino, South Bank Parklands, Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Recently, the hotel went through a major refurbishment. Its rooms are equipped with free coffee/tea making facility, fridge, air conditioning, and hair dryer.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Steve Irwin's Crocodile Zoo

Travel along the Glasshouse Mountains scenic route 2 hours North of Brisbane to the Wildlife Park of the famous Crocodile Hunter (Steve Irwin) at the Australia Zoo.


You will be taken directly to and from the Wildlife Park and have nearly 6 hours to experience the best of the zoo. Take in the many daily shows and demonstrations where you can see exciting snakes, birds and crocodiles in action! The "Call of the Wild" experience leads you to Steve's home and over 550 animals that you would only expect to see in the wilds of Australia. Experience a truly remarkable day as you watch a demonstration featuring wild crocodiles. Meet Amelia, the Wedged-Tailed Eagle and other birds of prey. Watch the small clawed otters frolic and Harriet, the world's oldest giant Galapagos land tortoise, as they feed. Encounter cuddly Koalas close up and join in the feeding of the kangaroos and wallabies. This is a day to experience the pleasures of the wild and watch very experienced professional handlers get close to extremely dangerous creatures. Don't miss the opportunity to take a photo with a snake at the Croc Hunter Museum or see the wild caught croc demo. Keep your eyes out for handlers walking through the park with the animals so you can get "up close and personal". With many more shows including foxes, camels, otters, koalas and birds you're sure to have a wild time!

Operation Days: Daily
Includes: Entry to Australia Zoo
Estimated Times: Departure: 8:45am Return: 5:30pm

Upgrades Available: Hire a Caddie Tour, Safari Guided Tour & Private Guided Tour
Self Drive Upgrades: Platinum Zoo Adventure

Optional Upgrade (Pricing Available On Request) - Australia Zoo Caddie Tour

Spoil yourself with an upgrade to your Australia Zoo experience with a caddie chauffer for 5 hours!

Make it all about YOU at Australia Zoo with a new experience to spoil yourself on your wild day out! The 'Hire a caddie for a day' tour gives you the opportunity to have your very own caddie chauffeur take you on a mind blowing journey around Australia Zoo that you will never forget. Choose your very own caddie* from the profiles below to suit the experience that you wish, whether it is an educational tour you are after or a crazy adventure…it is entirely up to you! This tour will give you the inside knowledge on Australia Zoo.

Profiles: Available upon request

Includes: Choosing your own experienced caddie for a VIP day*, Five star chauffeured service in your very own private buggy, Flexibility to customize your tour, VIP seating in the Crocoseum, Refreshments

Duration: Five hours. No. of people: Maximum of four people per caddie

* Please note that the caddie that you select for the day is subject to availability

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Mt Tamborine, O'Reilly's & Canungra Valley

This tour provides an opportunity to truly experience the beauty of this world heritage region.

Climb high above the surrounding coastal plain to the cool quiet rainforests of Lamington Plateau. Visit Mount Tamborine with its spectacular panoramic views of the Gold Coast and glistening waters of the blue Pacific Ocean. We stop for morning tea (own expense) and a leisurely walk in the fresh mountain air. From here we head toward the 'Green Mountains' of O'Reilly's. Here the history of this area and the epic adventures of early settlers. Learn of the heroic rescue by Bernard O'Reilly of two survivors from the Stinson plane crash. Walk through the tree tops 16 metres above the forest floor View the ancient Antarctic Beach trees together with a multitude of flora and fauna. Visit Canungra Valley Vineyards (owned by the O'Reilly family) Sample some local fruits of the vine. Travel through Canungra, the old sawmilling town now home of the Australian Army's Jungle Warfare Training Centre.

Operation Days: Daily
Includes: Morning Tea, Wine Tasting

Estimated Time: Departure: 8:45am Return: 6:00pm

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Tangalooma & Moreton Bay

Located only 75 minutes from Brisbane, take a relaxing cruise across Moreton Bay to the beautiful yet accessible Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Resort where you'll feel worlds away...

Surrounded by crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and untouched National Parks, the Resort on Moreton Island is a natural wonderland to be explored and is one of the few totally sand islands in Australia. Spend a few hours soaking up the palm trees, gardens and pristine beachfront of Tangalooma and spectacular Moreton Island. It's a place where you can hand feed a pod of wild bottlenose dolphins and enjoy over 75 tours and activities offered like Sand Tobogganing, Quad Bike tours, Snorkeling and Parasailing. With an amazing variety of tours & activities to suit all ages you'll want to try them all!

Includes: Cruise across Moreton Bay to Tangalooma Resort
Operation: Daily
Estimated Times: Departure: 9:00am Return: 6:00pm

(Day 7) - Shuttle Transfer Brisbane Accommodation to Airport

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

(Day 7 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight - Brisbane to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Cairns.

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

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

Luggage restrictions apply as per standard economy Australian domestic flights of 2 standard bags under 30kg (66 lbs) per passenger. Excess baggage is AUD$5.00 per bag payable on board. If traveling with excess baggage please advise the shuttle company upon reservation confirmation so appropriate trailer size is available.

(Days 7 to 12) - 5 Nights Accommodation in Cairns

Travel to your accommodation Cairns, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 5 nights.


Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located on the waterfront, overlooking Trinity Bay and the extensive parklands of Cairns, Australia. Elegantly appointed rooms with private balconies offer panoramic views to the Coral Sea or to Australia's majestic rainforest clad mountains. The hotel facilities include a restaurant, wine bar, and swimming pool. Travel and experience Australia's nature and culture by visiting the Great Barrier Reef or Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Or travel along Captain Cook Highway and visit picturesque Mossman Gorge.

(Day 7 cont) - Day Tour - Cairns Wildlife Dome

Discover the 'Zoo in the City' built atop the Cairns Reef Hotel Casino!

At Cairns Wildlife Dome located in the heart of the city, you can explore the sights, sounds and secrets of the rainforest wildlife in this spectacular enclosed glass dome wildlife exhibit. Immerse yourself in the replicated rainforest environment while different species of birds fly freely and pet the roaming wallabies in their enclosure. Enjoy the complimentary guided tours, daily interactive animal presentations, and great photo opportunities. You'll have a blast as you watch the afternoon feedings, get up close with a crocodile, watch the free flying birds, cuddle with furry friends and watch the nocturnal creatures awaken. Don't miss out on taking your photo with a koala (own expense)! If you do no worries, the dome is within walking distance of your accommodation and your ticket is good for re-entry for up to 4 days.

Operation Days: Daily
Includes: Entry, Re-Entry with Ticket (Up to 4 days), Shows & Presentations

Upgrade (Additional Cost): Koala Photo

(Day 8) - 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.

Not Included: Fees (Payable on Board) EMC (AUD$5*), Fuel Surcharge may be applicable. Subject to change, please verify before tour. To Bring: Beach Towel (Available at accommodation)

Operation Days: Daily
Estimated Times: Departure: 8:00am Return: 6:15pm

Optional Upgrade (Pricing Available On Request) - Great Barrier Reef Helicopter Flight

Travel to the Quicksilver Outer Reef Platform via Helicopter and return on the Quicksilver catamaran.

Travel to the Quicksilver Outer Reef Platform and experience a scenic Helicopter flight over the lush, tropical Daintree Rainforest, flying over pure white sand cays and viewing the amazing kaleidoscope of colours which make the Great Barrier Reef.

Flying low over the reef, your pilot will show you the wonders beneath the sea. Landing at the Agincourt Reef, on the very edge of the Great Barrier Reef, join the Quicksilver vessel and floating platform for a day of activities. Quicksilver has facilities for both swimmers and non-swimmers to enjoy the stunning reef. Explore the reef snorkeling or explore it from a semi submersible or from the under water observatory. Relax as you return to land aboard the Wavepiercer Catamaran as you reflect on the magnificence of nature's finest.

(Day 9) - Day Tour - Kuranda Highlights & Daintree Rainforest

Today you'll visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, have a delicious buffet lunch, then later glide over the rainforest canopy aboard Skyrail. Explore Kuranda, then board the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway for the awe-inspiring journey home.

Take a glimpse into the authentic Aboriginal culture with a visit to the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Here they combine dance theatre with demonstrations of traditional camp life and you'll be able to witness a celebration of song and dance as the Tjapukai perform corroborees and share with you the stories of their totems. Then, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at Boomerang Restaurant. Next, glide over the canopy of pristine World Heritage Rainforest with stops at Barron Falls and Red Peak Stations aboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Arrive in Kuranda the "Village in the Rainforest" where you can meander through the many shops and markets of this Mountain Village. Lastly, board the Kuranda Scenic Railway, where you'll pass dramatic waterfalls, rainforest and deep ravines as you wind your way through tunnels and over bridges on this magnificent journey, passing Stoney Creek and Barron Falls.

Includes: Tjapukai, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Kuranda Scenic Railway, Kuranda Levy, Buffet Lunch
Estimated Times: Departure: 8:00am Return: 5:15pm
Operation Days: Daily

(Days 10 & 11) - Free Days to Explore

Take the day and explore what could be considered the capital of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns!

A major outlet to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest amongst its many attractions, the tropical paradise of Cairns is sure to enchant you. With many area activities centrally located there's enough to occupy everyone in the family because Cairns literally has it all! Have a visit to the Esplanade where you can experience all walks of life and make memories. With a nightlife that caters to singles and families alike you're visit will be filled with so many things to do, so take a deep breath and have fun!

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Wooroonooran Safari

Journey to the ancient and undiscovered, World Heritage listed rainforest of Wooroonooran National Park.

Located just a half hour south of Cairns, this Wooroonooran offers unsurpassed beauty. Offering numerous rivers, waterfalls, swimming holes and lush rainforests you can revitalize yourself in this tranquil setting. Start your day with along the tropical path to the breath taking granite gorge at Babinda Boulders. Learn about the evolution of the rainforests and the millions of years it took to forge the gorge along with the ancient Aboriginal Boulder creation legend. Next, take a short walk to the secluded freshwater swimming hole of Josephine Falls at the foot of Queensland's tallest mountain, Mt. Bartle Frere. Experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls as they flow into large pools surrounded by boulders. Be sure to bring your swimsuit so you can take the exciting plunge down a natural rockslide into the cool refreshing waters. After the excitement of the morning, enjoy a fine lunch of Australian-Italian buffet with a variety of dishes and desserts. After lunch, walk high above the tree tops on one of Australia's grandest man made structures on the Mamu Canopy Walkway. The combination of the walkway, observation tower and viewing decks offer unexplored views of the Johnstone River gorge and surrounding rainforest landscapes. Lastly, tantalize your senses with a swim in the magical waters of Lake Eacham. This old volcanic crater lake of the Atherton Tablelands offers great swimming and snorkeling with opportunities to see turtles and water dragons as they swim with you. No matter the age this tour offers adventure, fun and education of the untamed wilderness with the knowledge and experience of your naturalist guides.

Includes: Transfers to/from accommodation, delicious buffet lunch, life-vest (children only), snorkel equipment, small group (12 max)
Estimated Times: Departs: 8.00AM Return: 6.00PM
Operation Days: Daily

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Hot Air Balloon Ride

Enjoy the experience of a lifetime with this half day tour including a hot air balloon ride and delicious hot champagne breakfast!

Whether this is your first or one of many, this balloon ride is sure to be one of your favorites with a fun and highly trained crew to help maximize your fun. This morning, head about an hour west for take off to the Atherton Tablelands known for its excellent weather, spectacular scenery and reliable take off conditions. You will be in awe as you see the largest fleet of hot air balloons prepare to sail the skies. On your ride take in the picturesque landscapes at sunrise as you fly gently above the Tablelands. Even if you have a fear of heights, you'll see that your flight is very gentle and stable since you gently lift from the ground making you feel comfortable and safe. Experience the unique sensation of breathing in the crisp air on your 30 minute hot air ballooning ride across the wide-open space. When the burner is off, listen to the sounds around you as the wind whips through the air and the sounds below drift up towards you. After your flight, come back down to Earth for landing and have lots of laughs as you assist in hot air balloon pack-up games. Next, enjoy champagne, fresh juices, eggs & bacon, tropical fruits & a hot and cold buffet as you relax in the serenity of the Australian bush at a historic country homestead. Raise a toast and cheers for your amazing balloon ride as you head back to your accommodation.

Includes: Transfers to/from Accommodation, 30 minute Hot Air Balloon Ride, Expert Commentary, Delicious Hot & Cold Breakfast, Champagne Toast, Cross Country Balloon Chase, Commemorative balloon Flight Certificate
Payable on Board (Not Included) - AUD25.00* Civil Aviation Insurance Levy
Estimated Times: Depart: 5:00AM Return10:00AM
Operation Days: Daily

Upgrade Available (Additional): 60 minute Ride, Luxury Ride, Private Charters

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Cairns Night Zoo

Enjoy a great Australian night out at the Cairns Night Zoo!

Enjoy a sumptuous Australian barbeque dinner including steak, sausages, chicken, and seafood's with salads and delicious desserts then perhaps enjoy a drink from the licensed bar (not included). After your savory dinner, explore the creatures of the night by torchlight as you journey into the darkness. Learn how owls hunt, touch a possum, pat a koala and see the glowing eyes of the crocodiles in your torchlight as you enter their lair. If you have a clear night, look up towards the skies and star gaze to see the Southern Cross, the Big Dipper and other well known constellations. Cross paths with a "Swaggie" (an original Australian bushman), and join them for billy tea and damper with him by the campfire. Their friends, the kangaroos, will come down and maybe even share a bite to eat! After complimentary cold beer or wine, join in the fun as you learn some famous Aussie Bush Dances. Make the night a memorable one, so dance and sing along!

Includes: Transfers to/from accommodation, Aussie Barbeque Dinner (Vegetarian option available), Guided Night Tour, Billy Tea, Bush Dances
Operation Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday
Estimated Times: 7.00pm and 10.00pm

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

Today you will enjoy a day to remember with a sail out to the protected Low Isles, an unspoiled coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef. You have 4.5 hours to explore the coral cay, white sandy beaches and coconut palms whilst marveling at the coral gardens and the Coral Sea that surround you.

Enjoy the relaxing sail to and from the island as you will be transferred by tender to the island itself which is situated on a large coral platform consisting of a small coral cay, a large mangrove island, mudflats, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. Surrounded by 55 acres of coral reef comprised of 150 species of hard corals and dominated by 15 species of soft corals it is an ideal place for snorkelling. Living in the blue lagoon are a large variety of reef fish including angelfish, damselfish, anemones, giant trevally, sweetlip, fusiliers and many green turtles are sighted daily. Be sure not to miss out on the Heritage Walk where you can learn about the islands history and environment and visit the lighthouse built in 1878. There are also a number of bird species on which you may encounter including pelicans, honeyeaters, white breasted wood swallows, mangrove kingfishers, reef egrets with sea eagles and ospreys wheeling overhead.

Includes: Courtesy transfers from Cairns accommodation, relaxing sailing time, morning/afternoon tea, coffee, cakes and fruit platter, Alfresco gourmet tropical buffet lunch, glass bottom boat for viewing, unlimited access to Low Island, Heritage Walk, guided snorkel with marine naturalist, all snorkel equipment and tuition to include lycra suits and flotation devices, fresh hot and cold showers, spacious luxury interior with an air conditioned bar & saloon.

Payable on board: $5.00 Marine Park Fee (Not Included)

Insider's Tip - Blue Sky Brewery

Stop off at the world-class Blue Sky Brewery located in the heart of Cairns and experience beer at its freshest!

Situated on Lake Street, this bar, restaurant and brewery is brining back the craftsmanship of brewing. Blue Sky uses only the purest ingredients and water to provide full flavored, preservative free, naturally brewed Cairns beer in six premium flavours. During the day, a knowledgeable guide will talk you through the stages of brewing with a wonderful highlight at the end of sampling the selection of beers. Check out the Brewseum and learn about the regions beer brewing history. Attracting locals and visitors alike with their boutique beers, comprehensive wine cellar, diverse modern cuisine and a dynamic, yet relaxed atmosphere this stop will be a satisfying one.

Hours: 10am - 12am Sunday to Thursday, 10am - 2am Fridays and Saturdays

(Day 12) - Shuttle Transfer Cairns Accommodation to Airport

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

Luggage restrictions apply as per standard economy Australian domestic flights of 2 standard bags under 30kg (66 lbs) per passenger. Excess baggage is AUD$5.00 per bag payable on board. If traveling with excess baggage please advise the shuttle company upon reservation confirmation so appropriate trailer size is available.

(Day 12 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight - Cairns to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Brisbane.

(Day 12 cont) - International Flight - Brisbane to Los Angeles

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.

The Qantas Boeing 747-400 is equipped with the latest entertainment features of any Airline. The overnight flight to the USA can be a good opportunity for sleeping or to watch the latest movies after your evening meal.