11 Days: Tour Australia & Day Dive the Reef [ST-Dive15]
Starting at
$3,085
Per Person
View Details
Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Port Douglas (4 Nights), Sydney (2), Melbourne (3)
  • International Air from USA to Cairns is not included (can be included on request)
  • Australian Domestic Air - Cairns to Sydney, Sydney to Melbourne
  • Day Tours - Port Douglas: Great Barrier Reef 2-Tank Day Dive Trip, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Experience to Kuranda; Sydney: Harbour Cruise Express, Opera House Tour
  • Shuttle Transfers - Cairns Airport to Port Douglas Accommodation (return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (return), Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (return)
  • All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (US$15.00 per person)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
  • Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Itinerary Details
Day 1 - International Flight from Los Angeles to Brisbane

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Brisbane.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

Day 2 - Australian Domestic Flight from Brisbane to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Cairns.

Day 2 - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to your Port Douglas Accommodation

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

Departures occur approximately 30 minutes after aircraft arrival-time for domestic flights. For international flights this will be considerably longer because of customs and other formalities.

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

Travel to your accommodation in Port Douglas, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.

Your vacation luxury boutique accommodation is located within walking distance of the three icons of Port Douglas – 200 meters from 4-Mile Beach, 100 metres from Macrossan Street and 400 meters to the Marina Village, where boats depart daily to Australia’s Outer Great Barrier Reef. The apartments are equipped with air conditioning, ceiling fans, cable TV, CD & DVD players, microwave, fridge, dishwasher, laundry facilities and security basement car parking. Free Wi-Fi available. There is a Lagoon style pool, an outdoor BBQ/ entertaining area, and an 8 person spa among a luscious tropical garden. Travel to the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation or maybe to the Great Barrier Reef. Port Douglas offers a winning combination of a cosmopolitan township and friendly village. You can relax from your travel or shop, dine in award winning restaurants and visit superb galleries and craft stores. (Children under age 15 are not catered for at this property. Other properties available upon request.)

*Optional upgrade to 5 Star Accommodation is available. Pricing upon request

Day 3 - Great Barrier Reef 2-Tank Day Dive

Today you will cruise out to the crystal clear waters, beautiful corals and incredible fish life found at the Agincourt Ribbon Reefs located on the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, which is the best possible for boat diving and snorkeling.

Plunge into aquamarine seas…

The crystal-clear waters, beautiful and incredible fish-life found at the Agincourt Ribbon Reefs, 70km North East of Port Douglas and on the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, enable us to offer the best possible day boat diving.

This includes drift & wall dives, isolated pinnacles surrounded by pelagic fish, and coral gardens with their endless variety of colourful wrasses, cods, parrot fish, clown fish, angel fish, clams and anemones, that make a healthy living reef so beautiful.

Certified divers can enjoy 2 guided dives, using large tanks and computers for extended bottom time. With local knowledge and access to more than 45 locations at 16 different reefs, three sites are chosen each day according to tidal and weather conditions.

Certified Divers are required to produce their Certification Cards plus complete paperwork once on board. Your Dive Master will brief divers on the sites, their equipment and safety procedures. Tanks & weights included. NB: $12.50 Marine Park & Fuel Levy Payable on Board (Not Included)

Day 4 - Kuranda Skyrail Tour into the Rainforest

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, is a world first in environmental tourism taking you on an amazing experience over Australia’s World Heritage listed Tropical Rainforest canopy and deep into the forest.

The Skyrail Rainforest Cableway experience spans 7.5kms over Australia’s pristine tropical rainforests. You’ll glide just metres above the rainforest canopy before descending through the canopy layers and deep into the heart of the forest at Skyrail’s two rainforest mid-stations for the ultimate tropical rainforest experience. Arrive in Kuranda the “Village in the Rainforest” where you can meander through the many shops and markets. Or you may decide to visit one of the local wildlife parks (own expense) to cuddle a koala and feed a kangaroo. A Skyrail Experience will take approximately 2-2½ hours return from Smithfield (15 mins from Cairns).

Upgrade from the Kuranda Skyrail to the full Kuranda Heritage Experience (ask for details)

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

A driver will check you in at your accommodation. You special Kuranda Boarding pass offerings pre-allocated seating on the Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail, preferential seating on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a detailed map of Kuranda, and discounted entry into selected Kuranda Attractions. Kuranda Scenic Rail: At the scheduled time board the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail. An amazing journey awaits you as you travel one of the world’s most scenic rail routes, through hand-hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges.

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you’ve ever wanted to ride in a hot air balloon, picturesque Atherton Tablelands is the perfect place! Treat yourself with this tour from Port Douglas for a sunrise fly!

Your day starts early, with a big payoff! An air conditioned coach will pick you up at your Port Douglas hotel and drive an hour west to the Atherton Tablelands. Experience the fun & unique sensation of a hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands, Australia. Enjoy the picturesque landscape at sunrise with 30 minutes minimum flying time. Breathe in the wide-open spaces! This is a great experience with Australia’s largest fleet of balloons and a fun and highly trained crew to maximize the fun of your morning.

Your balloon will return and the group enjoys hot air balloon pack-up games and lots of laughs. You’ll then have some time to enjoy the Australian bush at a historic country homestead.

Operates

Daily

Need to Know

– Payable on Board (Not Included) – 30.00AUD* Civil Aviation Insurance Levy
– Child Age Restriction: 3 Years and Under Not Allowed to Fly

Times

Pick-up around 5:00am and Drop-Off around 9:30am.

Inclusions

– Free door to door air conditioned coach transfers to most Port Douglas accommodations
– Spectacular 30 minute Hot Air balloon ride
– Expert interpretive commentary
– Cross Country Hot Air Balloon Chase
– Hot Air Balloon Ride Commemorative Certificate

Upgrades

Extended Fly (60 minutes):
– Luxury Fly with Extra Sleep In
– Personal Chauffeur & Private Transfers
– Extended Hot Air Balloon ride
– 5 star gourmet beachside breakfast at Palm Cove
– A bottle of Champagne to take home
– Complimentary photo set – delivered digitally

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Cape Tribulation & Jungle Surfing

Spend the day in Tropical Queensland’s World Heritage Daintree Rainforest. Includes the best of Cape Tribulation and the Daintree, with Jungle Surfing, lunch, and guaranteed wildlife spotting.



Begin the day by visiting the Wildlife Habitat. See the endangered cassowary, along with other wildlife, as well as the opportunity to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies. Have your picture taken with a koala, snake, or crocodile (extra cost). Morning Tea included. Arrive at Cape Tribulation and enjoy lunch before embarking on a fantastic adventure of Jungle Surfing.



Set in the pristine Daintree rainforest at Cape Tribulation, Jungle Surfing takes you on a unique rainforest tour where your feet don’t touch the ground. Fly through the trees on flying fox ziplines, stopping at tree platforms to take in spectacular bird’s eye views over the treetops. Highly trained abseiling masters and scientist guides will make sure your adventure is exciting, educational, and safe.

Cross the Daintree River on the Daintree River Cruise spotting Crocodiles, birds and other animals in the wild as you journey through the mangroves. Finally, venture to Alexandra Lookout for magnificent views of the Daintree River and Coral Sea – where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Rainforest.

After an exciting day, relax and enjoy some afternoon tea before heading back to your hotel.

Operates: Daily: Does not operate on Christmas Day, New Year’s Day and the day of the annual Ironman event held in June. Approximately 8:15am – 6:00pm

Includes: Hotel pick-up/drop-off; Scenic Coastal Drive; Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas; Morning Tea; Daintree River Cable Ferry; Tropical Lunch; Jungle Surfing Canopy Tour; Alexandra Lookout; Daintree River Cruise

Need to Know: Please advise at the time of reservation any disability requiring special attention while on tour. Your tour guides will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled customers, however we or the tour operators are not responsible in the event they are unable to accommodate your needs. Harnesses available to fit children aged 4, up to adults weighing 120kg/260lbs. No prior experience or specific fitness require. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted to travel on this tour. It is suggested you bring a water bottle, towel (for the beach), sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, a camera and some cash. Please advise of dietary requirements at time of booking.

Insiders Tip: Cotters Market

Every Sunday Anzac Park comes alive with a local cotter’s market offering clothing, toys, art, fresh juice and vegetables.

If you are in Port Douglas on a Sunday, make your way to Anzac Park for the weekly Cotter’s Market which brings together free traders, artists and farmers. All goods offered at the market were made by the immediate family of the stallholder. You can find locally handcrafted goods such as arts & crafts, pottery, glassware, book, jewelry, clothing, fruit & vegetables and unique Australian souvenirs. This is a must for anyone on the hunt for a bargain or the perfect souvenir.

Market hours are from 8am to 1:30pm.

Insiders Tip: Zinc Restaurant

Stop in for a bite to eat at Zinc, where the Great Barrier Reef is at its doorstep and the tropical spirit is embraced. Come and taste what locals and visitors alike have been raving about!



Zinc is contemporary dining with a relaxed coastal feel. Experience modern Australian cuisine made with fresh ingredients, such as local seafood, on either the outdoor terrace with views of Four Mile Beach or in the modern decor indoor dining area. Zinc is home to the largest privately owned aquarium on the east coast of Australia.



Zinc’s relaxed lounge bar features a large range of wines by the glass, over 70 cocktails, as well as over 110 spirits, liqueurs and a selection of cold beers on tap…perfect for that pre-dinner drink or after-dinner nightcap.

Zinc, a unique combination of restaurant, cafe and lounge, is located in the Portico Building on the corner of Macrossan & Davidson Streets. Lunch is served from 12 noon, Dinner from 5:30pm and Tapas are available all day from midday. Lounge closing time varies by day. Reservations are highly recommended; make yours by calling (07) 4099 6260. (Children’s menu available until 6:30pm)

Photo Credit: Zinc Port Douglas

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 from Cairns to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Sydney.

Day 6 - Shuttle Transfer from Sydney Airport to your Accommodation

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

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

Days 6 to 8 - 2 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights in your studio room apartment.

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

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

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

Day 6 - Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hour)

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

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

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

Includes
One hour guided experience.

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

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

Day 6 - Sydney Harbour Cruise, Hop on Hop off

On your vacation explore Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia with this unlimited full day pass, or take the 1 1/2 hour round trip cruise and see all the main harbour sights with commentary.

Hop On and Hop Off at up to seven famous harbour attractions with this unlimited full day pass, or simply take the 1 1/2 hour round trip cruise and see all the main harbour sights with commentary.

The Harbour Express stops at the following tourist attractions:

Fort Denison: The historic island and cafe in the middle of Sydney Harbour.

Taronga Zoo: Discover Australia’s amazing wildlife including koalas, platypus and kangaroos.

Shark Island: This island national park is the perfect destination for a BYO picnic lunch, complete with a small beach area for swimming.

Watson’s Bay: Home of Doyle’s famous seafood restaurant and only a short walk to beautiful harbour swimming beaches, HMAS Watson and headland parks.

Luna Park: Sydney’s famous fun park with rides and games, or walk across the Harbour Bridge from Milsons Point station.

Darling Harbour: Aquarium & Wildlife World, Australian Maritime Museum, shops, restaurants and only a short stroll or Monorail to Sydney Tower, Star City Casino, Powerhouse Museum and China Town.

Circular Quay: The Rocks historic precinct, weekend markets, Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens and Harbour Bridge pylon. (Additional Fees apply for Park Entry to Fort Denison, Shark Island & Taronga Zoo).

Day 8 - Shuttle Transfer from your Accommodation to Sydney Airport

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

Day 8 - Australian Domestic Flight from Sydney to Melbourne

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to Melbourne.

Day 8 - Shuttle Transfer from Melbourne Airport to your Accommodation

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

Days 8 to 11 - 3 Nights Accommodation in Melbourne

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

Enjoy the comforts of home in your stylish Melbourne accommodation located in the heart of Melbourne with easy access to renowned attractions! Each modern room offers spacious 4-star suites with an impeccable service and premium amenities. Relax on luxurious beds and kick back with your Smart TV and media hub, or lounge on your cozy sofa and take in the hustle and bustle of Melbourne from your sprawling windows. Every room has individually controlled heating and air conditioning. You’ll also enjoy on-site reception, luggage storage, on-site restaurants and bars, and free high speed internet.

You’ll be just minutes from Spence Street Outlet, Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens & Train Station, Rialto Towers, Marvel Stadium, Hardware Lane, Melbourne Aquarium, Queen Victoria Market, Royal Arcade, Bourke Street Mall, Melbourne Central Shopping, Crown Melbourne, Harbour Esplanade & Federation Square.

Days 9 & 10 - Free Days 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) - Yarra Valley and Puffing Billy

See some of the most beautiful scenery in Victoria with a ride on the Puffing Billy Steam Train!

Travel to the Dandenong Ranges, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Devonshire Tea in the mountains, followed by an unforgettable ride on the Puffing Billy Steam Train. Then you;ll visit the delightful village of Sassafras for boutique shopping.

The Dandenong Ranges, known to the locals as the Dandenongs, are beautiful low mountain ranges just 21 miles east of Melbourne. At their peak, they rise to more than 2,066 feet and are cloaked in lush rainforests of Mountain Ash trees (the tallest flowering plant in the world), waterfalls, rolling hills and steep valleys. The region is home to the famous Puffing Billy Railway, numerous art and craft stores and cafes offering delicious homemade produce.

Nestled in the heart of the Dandenong Mountains is Grant’s Reserve, a haven in the wilderness. On arrival you will be charmed by the surrounding mountain hue and crisp clear air. While here you will enjoy a traditional Devonshire Tea of homemade scones, served warm with jam and cream, and tea served in china tea cups – just a treat!

Grant’s Reserve is a paradise for bird life and will be you’ll be serenaded by the wonderful bird song that fills the valley. You can also handfeed some of the most striking Australian birds such as the colorful Crimson Rosella, Sulphur-crested Cockatoo and pink-chested Galah. It’s a lot of fun and a great opportunity to get a photo.

Next you head the short distance to Belgrave, home of the famous Puffing Billy Steam Train, where you are in for a real treat!

This century-old steam train is maintained in its original glory and runs to this day on its own mountain track from Belgrave to Gembrook. Here you’ll go back in time as you get on board for a 30-minute ride through the heart of the rainforest.

You’ll see the locomotive depot that services and maintains the train, head through the gorgeous Sherbrooke Forest and ride over the old Trestle Bridge. Just before Menzies Creek you can see stunning views of Port Phillip Bay before heading through Paradise Valley and on to the townships of Emerald and Gembrook. What a great ride!

From Gembrook you will then be on your way to the lovely little village of Sassafras. You’ll be travelling through thick rainforest that is home to all sorts of wildlife, so keep an eye out for Lyre Birds and Wallabies. Once in Sassafras you can take your time to explore the delightful antique and craft shops dotted throughout the village. You might even find a little something to take home with you.

Operates

Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday except December 25.

Need to Know

– Tour departs from Federation Square, Melbourne, corner of Flinders & Russell Streets.
– Return transfers from your accommodation are available – advise prior to booking.
– Wear enclosed walking shoes.
– Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and water bottle are recommended.
– Wear warm layers in cooler months.

Times

Departs at 8:10am and returns at 1:00pm, lasting approximately 4.5 hours.

Inclusions

– Puffing Billy Steam Train ride.
– Devonshire Tea.
– Experienced driver guide.
– Comprehensive commentary.
– Travel in an air-conditioned coach.

Upgrades

– Add a visit to the Healesville Sanctuary to meet native Australian wildlife at the end of your Puffing Billy journey – additional cost.
– Add a wine tour with tastings at three boutique wineries in the Yarra Valley at the end of your Puffing Billy journey – additional cost.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Phillip Island Penguins and Wildlife

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

Get up close and personal with the friendly residents of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, where you learn about the conservation of these loveable native animals. The eco certified sanctuary also showcases some lesser known but equally adorable endangered species including the Southern Bettong, Eastern Quolls and rare Fluffy Gliders. From there travel to Phillip Island where you see the Nobbies, and Seal Rocks before travelling on to Summerland beach for the nightly penguin parade. Home to Victoria’s largest colony of little penguins, Summerland beach provides a spectacular backdrop to the world famous penguin parade. Watch as hundreds of little penguins make their way across the beach and go home for the night. Come and enjoy the beauty and native wildlife and make this a journey to remember. Tour conclusion depends on time of year and ranges from 10pm during the winter months to midnight during summer as the penguins arrive at sunset.

Upgrade Available to Exclusive Viewing Platform (pricing available upon request)

Operates Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday only.
Image Credit: Visit Victoria

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Melbourne City Tour

Discover the beauty of Melbourne on this morning coach tour.

The city of Melbourne is a wonderful blend of heritage architecture, modern skyscrapers and contemporary designs. Vibrant cafes and cosmopolitan restaurants, colorful parklands and beautiful waterways are all found throughout this charming city. Discover its appeal for yourself and explore the cosmopolitan city with wide boulevards and fine historic buildings. View Bourke Street Mall and the tree-lined beauty of Collins Street, the ultimate shopping strip and business center. View fine examples of Melbourne’s architectural splendor, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Princess and Regent Theatres. Also see Melbourne Town Hall, the Royal Exhibition Buildings and Federation Square.

Stroll around Melbourne’s spectacular Royal Botanic Gardens. Visit the picturesque Fitzroy Gardens and explore Captain Cooks Cottage (optional, additional expense). See the bustling Queen Victoria Market and tranquil Albert Park Lake. See the city’s world renowned sporting arenas, including the MCG and Rod Laver Arena (home of the Australian Tennis Open). Pay tribute to the soldiers of war at the historic Shrine of Remembrance.

View Southbank, a world of waterfront shopping, dining and arts incorporating the Southgate Arts and Leisure Precinct and Crown Entertainment Complex (casino). Cross the West Gate Bridge for amazing views of the city skyline as well as the scenic bay side suburbs, St. Kilda and Albert Park.

Operates
Daily, except December 25 & January 1. Tour departs at 8:00am and returns at 11:50am, lasting approximately 3.5 – 4 hours.

Need to Know
Tour departs and returns at Federation Square. Wear warm layers during cooler months.

Inclusions
– Experienced driver guide
– Comprehensive commentary
– Travel in an air-conditioned coach

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Great Ocean Road Adventure

The spectacular Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most popular destinations. Experience views of uninterrupted beaches, dramatic coastlines and the lush rainforest of the Otway Ranges with this small group eco-tour.

Travel west to the start of the Great Ocean Road and pass the coastal towns of Lorne and Apollo Bay. Arrive at the iconic Cape Otway Lighthouse, mainland Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking views over the Southern Ocean and Bass Strait.

Discover the Shipwreck Coast, stroll along the historic beaches and see Loch Ard Gorge. Arrive at the famous 12 Apostles and descend the Gibson’s Steps, where you will be dwarfed by the high cliff line and these enormous offshore stacks. With this small tour group, there is plenty of time to get out and explore nature at its very best.

The highlights of this Great Ocean Road adventure include a visit to Bells Beach, where you’ll see one of Australia’s famous surfing beaches, world renowned for the Rip Curl Surfing Pro.

Enjoy the breathtaking view from iconic Cape Otway Lighthouse and learn about the fascinating history of the Aboriginal owners of the Gadabanud Peoples’ Cultural Centre. You will be afforded stops where you’ll see wildlife like Eastern grey kangaroos, koalas and native birds in the wild.

Pass through coastal towns of Lorne, Apollo Bay and Port Campbell. Enjoy a rainforest experience in the luscious surrounds of the Otway Rainforest and marvel at some of the tallest eucalyptus trees in Australia.

Operates
Daily except Christmas
Departs 7:00am – 8:00am and Returns 9:00pm (approx.)
April – October Departs 10:00am to 11:00am and Returns 9:00pm to Midnight (approx.)

Includes
– Return deluxe coach transfers from accomodations
– Morning tea, coffee, & cake
– Gorgeous views
– Complimentary onboard wifi
– Expert commentary

Need to Know
Request infant seats (0-3 years) or a child booster seats (4-8 years) free of charge. Please bring money for lunch. This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Colonial Tram Car Dinner

As you cruise the scenic streets of Melbourne, you will enjoy fine cuisine and drink the very best of Australian wines. The atmosphere is cosy, the service friendly and the decor as inviting as the colonial period these trams reflect.



The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant officially commenced operation in August 1983. These glossy, burgundy restaurants on wheels are the first travelling tramcar restaurants in the world and ensure a delightful innovative approach to dining. Dining aboard the Tramcar is not only a culinary delight, but also a trip into a little piece of Victoria’s history.



The tram is air-conditioned for total comfort and piped music helps to create a unique mood on wheels. Smart casual, suit or similar dress is appropriate when dining.

Early Dinner 5:45-7:15pm (Daily)

Also available: Lunch 1:00-3:00pm (On Request); Late Dinner 8:35-11:30pm (Daily)

(Please note that a surcharge will apply for Christmas Day Luncheon and New Years Eve Late dinner.)

Insiders Tip: Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is an historic Melbourne landmark and a Melbourne institution dating back to more than 120 years ago.


Queen Victoria Market hasn’t been just a market. At different times in the past it has been a cemetery, a livestock market and a place to sell fruit and veggies (vegetables) wholesale. It is said to be the southern hemisphere’s largest open-air market offering a variety of fresh farm produce and, on Sundays, a wider range of merchant items which turn the market into a modern Arabian Nights bazaar. This is the place to buy your souvenirs.


Aside from the variety of wares offered at the Queen Victoria Market, buskers and street entertainment are a market feature, particularly on Sundays when Queen St is closed and becomes a place of cafes, carnival rides and other activities. And there’s always the sound of spruikers cajoling visitors into buying their goods, and you can haggle for the best prices you’re able to get.

The Queen Victoria Market trading hours are 6am to 2pm on Tuesday and Thursday; 6am to 6pm (with the general merchandise section closing at 4pm) on Friday; 6am to 3pm on Saturday; and 9am to 4pm on Sunday. The market is closed on Monday and Wednesday, and on Good Friday, Anzac Day, Melbourne Cup Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. (Please double check times before you go.)

Photo Credit: Queen Victoria Market

Day 11 - Shuttle Transfer from your Accommodation to Melbourne Airport

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

Day 11 - International Flight from Melbourne to Los Angeles

Your International Flight arrives in Los Angeles on the same day of departure from Australia, due to your crossing of the International Dateline.

 
Detailed Pricing
Approximate Pricing Double Occupancy Sole Occupancy Permitted USA Departure Dates & Fare Rules
Land Content Only $3,237 $4,289 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) $4,423 $5,475 2024-04-01 00:00:00 - 2024-12-05 00:00:00
USA Departures: 1 APR - 28 JUN, 24 JUL - 5 DEC. Expires 30 APR 24
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) $5,058 $6,110 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) $5,161 $6,213 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) $5,871 $6,923 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) $6,851 $7,903 Premium Economy Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Change and Cancellation Fees Apply. Subject to Availability.
Business Class $9,757 $10,809 Business Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Subject to Availability.
First Class $24,350 $25,402 First Class International Return Flights from the USA (Los Angeles) are included. Subject to Availability.
  • a) All prices are USD$/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.