Itineraries

Sydney, Outback, Reef, Rainforest & Wildlife [L12]

16 Days / 14 Nights - Sydney, Australian Outback, Great Barrier Reef, Brisbane, and Gold Coast

Sydney, Australian Outback: Ayers Rock, Alice Springs, Cairns, Gold Coast, Brisbane

Your first stop is 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. Many day tours offer the opportunity to explore the area.

The Outback awaits you in Uluru/Ayers Rock and Alice Springs. While in the Red Centre you will experience Uluru at Sunrise and at Sunset, visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, Kata Tjuta and Walpa Gorge(The Olgas). Next you will travel to Alice Springs where you can learn even more about Aboriginal Culture and experience Aboriginal Art.

Your next stop is Cairns, located in tropical North Queensland. Known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a city alive with life and charm. Here, warm northern hospitality and enthusiasm are the order of the day. Tour the Great Barrier Reef with its opportunities to snorkel and swim. Experience authentic aboriginal culture with a tour to Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.

Onward to the Gold Coast, a dynamic city with about 290 sunny days annually. The City is located in picturesque south-east Queensland, Australia, and includes rural hinterland dense with sub-tropical vegetation and more than 57 kilometres of beaches.

Spend your last days in Brisbane, which has shucked its reputation as a backwater and emerged as one of the country's most progressive centres. It has several interesting districts, a good street cafe scene, a great riverside park, a busy cultural calendar and a thriving nightlife. Visit the Australian Zoo with Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin.

Features

• Accommodation - Sydney (3 nights); Australian Outback: Ayers Rock (2 nights), Alice Springs (1 Night), Cairns (4 nights), Gold Coast (2 nights), Brisbane (2 nights)
• International Air & USA Domestic Air are not included (as per your own arrangements)
• Australian Domestic Air - Sydney to Ayers Rock, Alice Springs to Cairns, Cairns to Brisbane
• Shuttle Transfer- Sydney Airport to Accommodation (return), Ayers Rock Airport to Accommodation, Cairns Airport to Accommodation (return), Brisbane Airport to Gold Coast Accommodation (one way), Gold Coast Accommodation to Brisbane Accommodation (one way), Brisbane Accommodation to Airport (one way)
• Taxi - Alice Springs Accommodation to Airport (own expense)
• Day Tours (Included) Sydney: Opera House Tour
• Day Tours (Included) Outback: Uluru/Ayers Rock Tour Pass, Deluxe Coach from Ayers Rock to Alice Springs
• Day Tours (Included) Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise
• Day Tour (Included) Brisbane: Australian Zoo
• All Other Day Tours are Optional and Not Included.
• Visa Issuance for entry into Australia is additional $15 per person
• F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organised Group Tour)
• Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.

Detailed Itinerary

(Day 1) - International Flight from 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 3) - 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.

(Day 3) - Optional Day Tour (Not Icluded): Sydney Explorer City Tour (1/2 Day 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.

(Day 3) Optional Day Tour, 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) Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Blue Mountains and Australian Wildlife Tour

On your vacation, discover the spectacular Blue Mountains 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 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 from Sydney to the Australian Outback

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to Ayers Rock, the Red Centre of the country.

(Days 5 to 7) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Ayers Rock

Travel to your accommodation in the heart of Australia, the Red Centre, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4 1/2 Star vacation accommodation is centrally located to all resorts and Australia touring facilities and offers a range of stylish accommodations, from shaded poolside rooms to the magnificent deluxe rooms overlooking the desert. You can relax from your travel in the comfort of your own private balcony or courtyard, or unwind in the hotel's refreshing pool, sipping cocktails. It's only a short stroll to the resorts numerous lookouts, where you can view what is arguably Australia's best sunset. Its spectacular display of colours across the face of Uluru and the surrounding desert turns your vacation into a memorable event.

Airport shuttle transfers included.

(Days 5 and 6) - Day Tours, Ayers Rock/Uluru: Uluru and The Olgas

On your vacation explore the fascinating surroundings of Australia's Red Centre.

This afternoon visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre and Maruku Arts and Craft Cooperative, dedicated to interpreting Anangu culture and law, as well as helping visitors learn about the cultural value of the region. Travel to the waterhole of Mutitjulu for a guided walk, viewing ancient cave paintings and learning about the Aboriginal legends of Kuniya Tjukurpa (Python Dreaming). Join the guided Mala Walk to learn the story of the Mala (Hare Wallaby) people who once lived at Uluru. See painted caves and learn of the region's geology and flora. As you tour the base of Uluru, visit Kantju Gorge, a waterhole and old hunting ground. Late in the day, watch the sunset over Uluru, admire the ever-changing colours of the monolith while the sun sinks below the horizon. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and canapes as the dusk deepens into night. Return to the Resort approximately 30 minutes after sunset.

The next morning, rise early and enter Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Enjoy a complimentary cup of tea or coffee as you witness Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunrise and see the desert come to life. With the sun still climbing the morning sky, travel to Kata Tjuta (Olgas); a stop is made to view the immense scale of this formation which dominates the western skyline of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This remarkable formation of 36 domes is thought to have once been a single rock many times the size of Uluru (Ayers Rock). On arrival at Kata Tjuta, join a guided walk into Walpa (Olga) Gorge. Marvel at the sheer walls that flank you as you enter the gorge. Learn of the domes' formation and of the wildlife of the region. Some of the plants you will see here are so rare that they are only found among these rocky domes. Return to your resort late morning with the rest of the day free.

Note: The tour may be closed without notice due to weather or cultural reasons.

Includes: Transfers to and from accommodation, National Park Entry Fee

(Day 6) - Optional Day Tour (Not Included), Sounds of Silence Dinner

Dine under a million stars at the award winning Sounds of Silence restaurant

Travel out to a secluded dining setting in the middle of the desert. Sip on a glass of champagne with the sound of a lone didgeridoo filling the air as the sun slowly sets over the Olgas (Kata Tjuta) and Ayers Rock (Uluru).
Dine on a gourmet BBQ of Australian delicacies such as kangaroo, barramundi and buffalo, then sit back and take in the mystery of the desert at night as an astronomer takes you on a tour of the clear Southern night skies.

(Day 7) - Day Tour, Deluxe Coach from Ayers Rock to Alice Springs

On your vacation travel by luxury coach from Uluru to Alice Springs, Australia's Red Centre.

Board the luxury coach early in the afternoon and travel east from Yulara via Curtin Springs and see Atila (Mt Conner) in the distance. This fascinating mesa, or flat-topped mountain, juts out of the surrounding desert plain bearing witness to a period of massive uplift, followed by eons of erosion. Continue east to Erldunda before turning north on to the famous Stuart Highway and to the town at the very heart of the Red Centre, Alice Springs. As you pass through the striking 'Outback' landscapes, your Driver/Guide will provide an informative and entertaining commentary. Set down in Alice Springs at approximately 6.30pm.

(Days 7 to 8) - 1 Nights Accommodation in Alice Springs

Travel to your accommodation in the heart of Australia and the Outback, Alice Springs, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.

Alice Springs, Australia's Oasis, is also known as the capital of the Outback and the most romantic country town in the world. It's where the Arrernte Aboriginal tribal group has lived for 20,000 years and where pioneer men and women gave "tough" a new meaning. Whilst on your vacation, take advantage of the many attractions available in Alice Springs. Visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Alice Springs School of the Air, Central Australian Aviation Museum, the Alice Springs Reptile Centre, Alice Springs Telegraph Station, Old Stuart Town Gaol. Travel by coach or car to explore the unique scenery of Australia's Outback and its magnificent monolith - Uluru.

(Day 8) - Taxi, Alice Springs Accommodation to Airport (own expense)

Taxi transfer as per your own arrangements (pay as you go).

(Day 8 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight from Alice Springs to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from the heart of the Outback, Alice Springs, to Cairns.

(Day 8 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.

Pickups are conducted with a maximum waiting time of 20 minutes after collection of baggage from flight. If you are unable to meet within this time frame you will be required to wait for the next available shuttle.

(Days 8 to 12) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Beautiful Cairns

Travel to your accommodation Cairns, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 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 9) - Day Tour, Great Barrier Reef Adventure

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: EMC AUD$5, 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). Camera's available from any local chemist or convenience store.

(Day 10) - 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

(Day 10) - Optional Day Tour (Not Included): Kuranda and 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

(Day 11) - Optional Day Tour (Not Included): Cape Tribulation Safari

Travel along a scenic coastal drive to Port Douglas to experience the wildlife, rainforest, rivers and beaches of the region.

At the entrance of Port Douglas explore the Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary stop and have morning tea along with a guided tour through the three wildlife environments (rainforest, wetlands and grasslands) where you can experience a cacophony of wildlife. Take a guided rainforest walk where you'll have a stop at the picturesque Mossman Gorge then cross the Daintree River by cable driven ferry into the magnificent wilderness region that embraces the diverse coastal scenery and the oldest rainforest on earth, Daintree National Park. Relax at Cape Tribulation Resort & Spa where you'll enjoy a tropical buffet lunch. Then stroll along the beach or boardwalks of the World Heritage listed Cape Tribulation Beach that holds magnificent views where the oldest rainforest in the world meets the Great Barrier Reef. View the breathtaking scenery of the Daintree River and Coral Sea at the Alexandra Lookout. Keep a look out for the abundant crocodiles on a guided River Cruise through the mangroves of the Daintree River. Have a refreshing cup of afternoon tea before heading back to Cairns.

Includes: Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary, Daintree Cruise, Cape Tribulation, Buffet Lunch, Guided Walks, morning and afternoon tea
Estimated Times: Departure: 7:30am Return: 6:30pm
Operation Days: Daily

(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 from Cairns to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Brisbane.

(Day 12 cont) - Shuttle Transfer, Brisbane Airport to the Gold Coast Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from Brisbane Airport to your Gold Coast vacation accommodation. (Estimated travel time is 1.5 hours.)

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address. Valuable items (e.g. jewellery, expensive equipment, cash etc) should be carried by the passenger on their person. Passengers are strongly advised to take out appropriate travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

(Days 12 to 14) - Gold Coast Accommodation (2 Nights)

Travel to your accommodation on the Gold Coast, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 5 Star luxury vacation accommodation is in Broadbeach, the Gold Coast's most cosmopolitan location. Only 50 metres from the beach, the hotel is a short stroll to the Gold Coast Convention Centre. The spacious rooms are equipped with balconies and panoramic views, some of which are directly of the ocean. Some other amenities include in-room safe, broadband high speed Internet access, and air conditioning. Travel to Lamington National Park, one of Australia's green and lush, subtropical rainforests. Or perhaps you want to see the Gold Coast from a unique vantage point of a balloon. Whatever your heart desires, you find it while on vacation here.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Byron Arch and Glow Worms Caves - Full Day

Enjoy a day at Byron Bay, Tropical Fruit World and some other great local spots!

Our first stop in Byron Bay is the Cape Byron Lighthouse. Standing on a bald rocky headland with a precipitous cliff on the east side, and a sheer drop of approximately 100 metres, Enjoy a day at Byron Bay, Tropical Fruit World and some other great local spots!

Cape Byron Lighthouse is the most easterly light in Australia, and one of the most powerful. Here you have the opportunity to stand on the edge of Australia! Not only is Byron Bay famous for being the most easterly mainland point but also as the "alternate lifestyle" capital of Australia so meet the locals and enjoy the atmosphere. There will be opportunities for a swim at Byron Bay Beach so be sure to be prepared.

For a bit of retail therapy, there is a great range of original crafts, clothing and gift ideas. Have some lunch (own expense) in one of the local cafes, the beachfront pub or have take away by the beach.

Then spend time at a 5th generation family farm at Tropical Fruit World. It boasts some of Australia's and the world's most exotic fruits and the best fruit parfaits around! Be sure to stop off and purchase some exotic and local fruits along with some great natural products. Next have a brief stop at Superbee Honeyworld where you can sample from up to 15 local varieties of honey. Don't worry if honey doesn't suit you then just head next door to the Chocolate Expo where you can find over 140 hand made varieties.

Note: During the winter months you may even see whales making their annual migration north.

Includes: 3 Hours in Byron Bay, Honey World, Chocolate Factory, Tropical Fruit World

Operation Days: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays Only
Approximate Times: Departure: 8:45am Return: 4:45pm

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Catch a Crab Tour - 1/2 Day

From the moment you step on board our specially designed river cruiser you can take part in a range of activities such as feeding pelicans, yabbie pumping, fishing and trapping for crabs.

The highlight of the day for most of our guests is the thrill of pulling up the crab pot with its lively catch of the most sought after seafood delicacies - the Queensland mud crab, and other crabs in season.
If you prefer, you can simply sitting back and enjoy the spectacular natural beauty of the tranquil and safe Terranora inlet, on the Tweed River. Tour includes a stop at the famous Terranora rock oyster leases and the opportunity to purchase oysters fresh from the farm.

Don't forget to bring shorts and towel (for yabbie pumping), your camera, and binoculars if you're a keen bird watcher!
3 Hour Catch-a-Crab tour including fishing rods, bait and all equipment supplied for activities, plus delicious morning tea. For seafood lovers, choose from whole freshly cooked mud crab OR crab platter duo of mud and spanner crab, cooked on board by your captain, served cracked with lemon wedges and dressing, and accompanied by garden salads and crusty breads

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Lamington National Park Rainforest - Full Day

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: 5:00pm

(Day 14) - Shuttle Transfer, Gold Coast Accommodation to Brisbane Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Gold Coast to your vacation accommodation in Brisbane, Australia. (Estimated travel time 1.5 hours)

(Days 14 to 16) - Brisbane Accommodation (2 Nights)

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.

(Day 14) - Optional Day Tour (Not Included): Koala Sanctuary, Mt. Cootha as well as the City Sights

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (established in 1927) is the world's first and largest koala sanctuary.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit Australian native animals in a natural Aussie bush country setting. At Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary you can hug one of 130 cute koalas anytime of the day (cuddling Koala's is only legal in the state of Queensland). You can also hand feed friendly kangaroos & emus, see Tasmanian devils, wombats, dingoes, reptiles and more. The sanctuary is 20 hectares (50 acres) and is available for you to explore at your leisure. Hours are 8am - 5pm.

Admission is $28 AUD for Adults & $19 AUD for Children (Ages 3-13). Escorted Tour also available (afternoon only)

There are regular buses to and from Lone Pine operated by the Brisbane City Council. They are relatively cheap and start from the city centre, dropping you off inside Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Adult fares are $2.90 and children. Prices are subject to change.

(Day 15) - Day Tour, Steve Irwin's Australia 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

(Day 16) - Shuttle Transfer, Brisbane Accommodation to Airport

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

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address. Valuable items (e.g. jewellery, expensive equipment, cash etc) should be carried by the passenger on their person. Passengers are strongly advised to take out appropriate travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

(Day 16 cont) - International Flight from 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.