Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrive Sydney
Transfer: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airportto Sydney - City Centre
Hotel: Furama Darling Harbour (4 Star Rating)
The newly refurbished Furama Darling Harbour is situated right between the bustling China Town and the newly developed Darling Square precinct. Our hotel is just a 5-minute walk to the ICC International Convention Centre and a 10-minute walk from Central Train Station. Take a leisurely stroll through Darling Harbour with its many attractions such as Cockle Bay, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, Wild Life Sydney Zoo and Madame Tussaud's Sydney. The hotel is also a heritage building constructed in 1890 and has since transformed into the largest Holiday Inn in Australia. The hotel recently underwent a refurbishment worth $ 15 Million. The scope of work included changing the bathrooms and the rooms to a more modern outlook and neutral colour schemes with an emphasis on technology and practicality. Part of the upgrade also included a renovated fitness centre, spa and laundry services. Keeping families at heart, we have come up with five new Suites designed to keep kids and parents equally happy with two separate bedrooms, one which is themed to keep the kids amused and the other that lets the parents unwind. The refurbishment is timed perfectly with the development of Darling Square and Steam Mill Lane across the road which will include 80 new retail stores and public spaces for our guests. This has made our hotel become a top choice for leisure and corporate travellers.
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Day 2: Sydney Panoramic with Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise and Sydney City and Opera Hour Tour and DineDepart your hotel for an unforgettable Panoramic Sydney half day city sights tour. On tour you will visit the historic Rocks area and hear of early convict history. We continue through the financially focused Central Business District (CBD), and Macquarie Street. Marvel at 19th century sandstone architecture such as NSW Parliament House, Rum Hospital, Hyde Park Barracks and St Mary’s Cathedral. We will continue to Mrs Macquaries Point, to enjoy magnificent views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. We then continue through Sydneys Eastern Suburbs, home to the rich and famous. Travelling along the coves and shores of one of the world’s most impressive harbours, we will take a few stops for photo opportunities, including a panoramic photo of Sydney skyline. You will pass through areas such as Kings Cross, Double Bay, Rose Bay before arriving at Watsons Bay.Time permitting, you may have the option for a short coastal walk with views of the South Pacific Ocean and the entrance to Sydney harbour.
Travel on to famous Bondi Beach for a 30-minute stop. Visit the beachfront promenade, put your toes in the sand, enjoy a coffee or cool drink (at own cost). See bronzed Aussie lifesavers and surfers riding the waves of Bondi. Re-board your bus and continue on to Tamarama and Bronte beaches before returning to the city via Centennial Park and Paddington, a trendy district with its elegant terrace houses and boutique shops along Oxford Street.
Arrive at Circular Quay for your Sydney Harbour lunch cruise. Departing from the Eastern Pontoon @ 12 noon you will spend 2 relaxing hours discovering the secrets of one of the world’s most famous and spectacular natural harbours including icons such as Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Sydney Botanical Gardens and more. We give you a chance to see the city from a new perspective and marvel at the sights that decorate its coastline. Owing to our educated live commentator, you will get to learn something new about Sydney, its history and about each of the sights that you can see from the deck. Included is an expansive fresh buffet including seafood and beverages are also included
Your cruise concludes at 2.15pm at Circular quay and on arrival, make your way at leisure back to your hotel. Your cruise includes a full buffet lunch with a mix of hot and cold selections, and fresh seafood, as well as a beverage package.
Step inside the iconic Sydney Opera House and discover the extraordinary stories of one of the globe's most recognized landmarks. Throughout your experience, the passionate guide will take you inside theatres and foyers that are otherwise off-limits, while letting you in on some insider secrets pertaining to the history of the building and the people who were behind its creation. Following the tour, soak up the views while enjoying your choice of the main meal at the Opera Bar (an iconic Sydney venue focusing on Australian cuisines), House Canteen (a harbourside all-day hawker-style venue offering pan-Asian cuisine), or Midden by Mark Olive (Celebrates Ambassador Chef Mark Olive’s Indigenous Australian heritage with a menu focused on native Australian ingredients), accompanied by a refreshing beverage (either wine, beer, or soft drink).
No reservations are required to dine and your meal and beverage is available before or after your tour. At Opera Bar and House Canteen the meal and beverage is available from 11.30am to 6pm. On arrival please find a table before making your way to the bar and presenting your Tour & Dine ticket to bar staff. At Midden by Mark Olive the meal and beverage is available between 11.30am-2.30pm for lunch and 5pm-6pm for dinner. On arrival to Midden, please present your Tour & Dine ticket to wait staff before being seated.
Day 3: Full Day Blue MountainsThe Blue Mountains National Park is one of seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. This wonderland of sandstone outcrops, deep ravines and hazy blue eucalypt forests boasts luxury retreats and stunning views. Today your guide will take you off the beaten track to visit remote lookout locations and discuss the history, flora and fauna of this magnificent region.
7:00 - 7:30 AM Depart from the hotel with AEA Luxury Tours. Our first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill a working farm also home to Kangaroos, Emus, Wombats and Koalas. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure.
From Calmsley Hill we continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. We will visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Where possible this will be away from the crowds of tours that visit the mountains each day with other operators, thus our guests will enjoy a stress and hurry free environment taking in the views and information imparted by their guide.
Continuing on we arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout points away from the crowds for views of the famous 3 Sisters. Whilst the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can't help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colors. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos.
We then make our way around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch venue the Hydro Majestic. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. We enjoy a 2-course lunch with One NON Alcoholic Beverage Per person. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Additional Beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar.
The afternoon is spent visiting a selection of lookouts. Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you'll know why it's one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. If you're not mesmerized by the dancing waves of water spray, you'll be transfixed by the sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness. We then stop at the delightful Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, where we enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before travelling down the Bells Line of Road and its fruit orchard industry. We arrive back at your hotel approximately 4.30 - 5.00pm.
Day 4: Sydney to Ayers Rock, Kata Tjuta Domes and Wintjiri Wiru Sunset DinnerTransfer: Sydney - City Centre to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport
Transfer: Ayers Rock Airportto Ayers Rock
Hotel: Desert Gardens Hotel (3 Star Rating)
Imagine waking up to a sunrise view of Uluru, blazing red under a sunny Outback sky. Desert Gardens Hotel boasts the only rooms with views of Uluru in Ayers Rock Resort. Perched within an oasis of native gardens, the hotel’s 218 elegant guestrooms provide a relaxing retreat from a day of adventure. Accommodation options are diverse, from deluxe rock view rooms to shady poolside rooms, each located under a canopy of towering gumtrees and garden beds dotted with native shrubs and flowers.
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Travel to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) where your guide will reveal the many attributes of this diverse environment. Arriving at Walpa Gorge you will walk between the mighty conglomerate domes and hear how these 36 domes that makeup Kata Tjuta have evolved over millions of years. Your guide will return you to your hotel in time for those joining Sounds of Silence or Tali Wiru dinner or Field of Lights.
Your Wintjiri Wiru experience begins deep in the desert. After a short journey from Ayers Rock Resort, take a gentle evening stroll through the desert along an elevated walkway until you reach the open-air theatre, set upon a dune top. You'll be greeted with delicious cocktails, infused with native ingredients while taking in the incredible views and watch on in awe as the sun slowly sets over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Embark on a culinary adventure with a gourmet dinner hamper where native ingredients are combined with modern culinary techniques to create a masterpiece for the palette.
With the heart of Australia as the backdrop, a story passed on for thousands of generations, now passes to you. Witness the ancient Mala story re-told like never before with ground-breaking technology. Choreographed drones, lasers, and projections will take flight, lighting up the night sky in a modern, artistic expression of an ancient, Anangu story. Feel a powerful connection to country as you listen to a traditional Inma soundtrack and narration in the local Pitjantjatjara language and immerse yourself in a living story.
Day 5: Kings Canyon and Outback Panoramas and Wintjiri Wiru Sunset DinnerTravel from Ayers Rock Resort to Kings Canyon, stopping along the way for a cooked breakfast at Kings Creek Station. Make the rocky climb to the rim of the canyon for breathtaking views of Watarrka National Park. Hike along the rim, stopping to look down into the canyon at key focal points. Along with your Guide you will descend into the lush green oasis of the ‘Garden of Eden' before climbing back up to continue along the rim. The hike takes over 3 hours to complete and is rocky and steep in parts. Or, for something more relaxing, set off on a two-kilometre stroll along the creek bed that leads to impressive views of the canyon rim. After your hike you can take a break for lunch (own expense) at Kings Canyon Resort. Then board your coach to return along Lasseter Highway to Ayers Rock Resort. Keep an eye out for spectacular Mt. Conner along the way as you travel across Curtin Springs Station.
Day 6: Uluru Highlights and Ayers Rock to CairnsAs you travel towards Uluru its vast shape rises from the sand dunes as the early dawn light highlights it presence in this country. Your guide will take you to a special location with uninterrupted views to watch the sun rise over this amazing monolith. Enjoy a picnic breakfast before you experience the highlights of Uluru. Your guide will escort you on a short walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole at Uluru where you will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (Python). You will drive around the base of Uluru before returning to the resort.
Transfer: Ayers Rock to Ayers Rock Airport
Transfer: Cairns Airportto Cairns - City Centre
Hotel: Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns (4 Star Rating)
At Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns you will discover three superb resort swimming pools and two tennis courts all set within the lush tropical surround. Located conveniently on the Esplanade, our Cairns accommodation is within walking distance to a vast array of Cairns’ finest shopping and dining facilities.
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Day 7: Full day outer Barrier Reef CruiseFor an experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver's wave piercing catamarans and friendly crew will take you to a reef at the very edge of Australia's Continental Shelf, to an underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance. Agincourt Reef is a magnificent ribbon reef where you can experience first-hand the magic that is the Great Barrier Reef. Choose to dive (extra cost), snorkel, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a semi-sub, just one metre underwater. Watch the fish feeding from a unique underwater viewing platform and underwater observatory, or fly in a helicopter over the reef (extra cost). Whichever way you choose; you'll bring home a lifetime of memories from this living natural wonder.
Day 8: Kuranda - Scenic Rail, Skyrail and Hartley's CrocodileThis morning, your driver will greet you, collect your voucher, and issue your Kuranda Boarding Pass. We will then transfer you to Freshwater Station. There is no need to queue, as your pre-allocated preferential Train tickets are already on your Boarding Pass. Once aboard, enjoy this historical rail journey to Kuranda, with breathtaking views across the cane fields of Cairns to the tropical rainforest of Kuranda.
Upon arrival in Kuranda, you have time to explore this fascinating village - approx. 1hr. The Kuranda Markets are full of colourful and interesting art or find the perfect souvenir at one of Kuranda's eclectic boutiques.
At 11.30 am, make your way directly to the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway boarding line - there is no need to queue as your tickets are already on your Boarding Pass. Once aboard, be amazed as you journey over and through the World Heritage protected Rainforest. Your Boarding Pass is your ticket for this iconic rainforest experience that includes time at both Red Peak and Barron Falls stations where you can discover exceptional views from The Edge Lookout or visit the Rainforest Interpretation Centre. Complimentary guided boardwalk tours are offered throughout the day at Red Peak Station. After arriving at the Smithfield Skyrail Terminal, our coach is waiting to transfer you to Hartley's.
There is plenty of free time to explore the park, and your experience includes a 25 minute Wetlands boat cruise through the ecologically significant Melaleuca wetlands; the domain of the saltwater crocodile. See the notorious head shake and death roll of a huge saltwater crocodile at the Crocodile Attack Show, and discover the world's most venomous snakes at the Snake Show!
Day 9: Cairns to Melbourne and time for leisure and explorationTransfer: Cairns - City Centre to Cairns Airport
Transfer: Melbourne Airportto Melbourne - City Centre
Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank (3 Star Rating)
The brand-new Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank is situated in Melbourne's premier culture and entertainment destination. Positioned in the arts hub of Melbourne, Southbank is home to the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne and the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art. Holiday Inn Express Melbourne Southbank is within close proximity to many of the city’s renowned restaurants and bars, being within walking distance to the Crown Casino complex and Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The hotel’s location also allows for easy access to Melbourne’s sporting and entertainment precinct which hosts the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Arena and AAMI Park.
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Day 10: Morning Melbourne City Tour and Philip Island Penguin and Moonlight Sanctuary Small Group TourDepart the city and head south, passing Albert Park, home of the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Stop at Brighton Beach for photos of the iconic bathing boxes set along the bay. Return to the city for a guided walking tour through Melbourne’s famous laneways and arcades, known for their street art, hidden cafes, and unique shops.
Continue by minibus to explore the city’s key landmarks. Take in the Gothic Bank, Old Mint, and Flagstaff Gardens, and pass historic sites like Queen Victoria Market, the Old City Baths, and Old Melbourne Gaol. Drive through the lively Lygon Street café precinct, see the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum, and cruise past elegant Collins Street, Spring Street, and Fitzroy. You’ll also pass Fitzroy Gardens, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), and the Tennis Centre.
The tour ends in the Southbank precinct, where you can visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), explore the Botanic Gardens, enjoy lunch by the Yarra River, or join a relaxing Melbourne River Cruise.
Depart the city and head south, passing Albert Park, home of the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Stop at Brighton Beach for photos of the iconic bathing boxes set along the bay. Return to the city for a guided walking tour through Melbourne’s famous laneways and arcades, known for their street art, hidden cafes, and unique shops.
Continue by minibus to explore the city’s key landmarks. Take in the Gothic Bank, Old Mint, and Flagstaff Gardens, and pass historic sites like Queen Victoria Market, the Old City Baths, and Old Melbourne Gaol. Drive through the lively Lygon Street café precinct, see the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum, and cruise past elegant Collins Street, Spring Street, and Fitzroy. You’ll also pass Fitzroy Gardens, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), and the Tennis Centre.
The tour ends in the Southbank precinct, where you can visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), explore the Botanic Gardens, enjoy lunch by the Yarra River, or join a relaxing Melbourne River Cruise.
Let Oceania Tours whisk you away to discover Phillip Island's unique nature experiences and dramatic landscapes. Your small group tour will help to further the protection and conservation of the local fauna and flora.
We drive south-east from Melbourne to reach Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park where you will meet endangered species, kangaroos, wallabies and koalas plus an array of colourful birds and reptiles.
Our journey then leads onto Phillip Island, the home of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix and our famous Little Penguins. Upon arrival on the island, depending on the time of year and your particular interests, we will visit Woolamai beach to see surfers riding the waves. From here, we go to the western corner of the island to enjoy magnificent views of Bass Strait and the Nobbies, which is home to the largest colony of fur seals in Australia.
During the daylight savings months, you will travel to the town of Cowes where you will have free time for dinner. In the winter months you can have something to eat at the Penguin Parade Visitor Center or wait for your early arrival back at your city hotel.
Finally, a trip to Phillip Island is not complete without its black tie gala event: the Penguin Parade. You will head to the Visitor Centre to shop, have a coffee and meander along the boardwalk to the viewing platform where you will see the little penguins come ashore, decked out in their tuxedos as they hurry off to find their burrows. On this tour, you will be treated to viewing the penguins at the special Penguins Plus viewing platform close to the little penguins' favourite spot to exit the water.
Day 11: Full Day Great Ocean Road TourExperience this majestic coastal drive-in style with your small group and enjoy time to relax and fully appreciate the wonders of this world-famous touring route. Stay on the lookout for some very special animals including whales, dolphins, echidnas and bandicoots. Your camera will get a good workout along this exciting journey where we will stop for plenty of photo opportunities.
To begin, your expert Oceania Guide will collect you from your Melbourne hotel to commence your exciting road trip. Your next stop will be at Apollo Bay, a tranquil seaside town which is most noteworthy for its setting among the soft rolling hills. It offers a great selection of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy some lunch (not included). Following this, we will enjoy a walk in the forest in the Otway Ranges. A truly unique day out, capped off by a visit to the ancient rock formations of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Finally, your Oceania guide will transfer you back to the comfort of your hotel in Melbourne.
We plant a native tree for every passenger on our Great Ocean Road Tour.
Day 12: Depart MelbourneTransfer: Melbourne - City Centre to Melbourne Airport
