Adventures In Scuba Custom [CU2997]

Detailed Itinerary

21st Sep 2012 (Day 1) - International Flight, Vancouver to Sydney via Los Angeles

After departing from Vancouver, 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'll catch it up again on your return flight to Canada)

Please confirm with the airlines at Check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record.

23rd Sep (Day 2) - Australian Domestic Flight, Sydney to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to the gateway of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.

23rd Sep (Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to Accommodation

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

Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container.

23rd - 24th Sep (Days 2 to 3) - 1 Night Accommodation in Cairns

Enjoy 1 night at your 4-Star Cairns accommodation.

Nestled in the tropical paradise of Cairns, this remarkable hotel captivates guests with its warm hospitality, exceptional service, and breathtaking views. The accommodations offer a harmonious blend of comfort and style, complemented by the hotel's prime location near dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. From the inviting restaurant to the attentive staff, every aspect ensures an unforgettable stay. Discover a tranquil oasis in Cairns that promises cherished memories for discerning travelers.
 
Hotel Amenities
Free Wi-Fi, Swimming Pool, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Bar, Restaurant, Paid Parking, Room Service  
 
Preferred Room
Superior King Balcony - 1 King or 2 Singles - Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Flat Screen TV.
 
Room Upgrades
- Deluxe King Balcony - 1 King or 2 Singles - Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Esplanade, Trinity Inlet, or Ocean Views ; Flat Screen TV.
- Superior King Balcony Suite - 1 King or 2 Singles - Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Corner Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Flat Screen TV.
- Executive Luxury Suite - 1 King or 2 Singles - Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Same level as the pool deck ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities and Luxury Skincare ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Pod coffee machine ; 50-inch Flat Screen TV ; Two-person bath.
 
Need to know
Hotel subject to availability. If this hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be substituted. Room booked will be preferred unless otherwise listed on your quote.

24th - 27th Sep (Days 3 to 6) - 3 Nights - Live Aboard Diving Expedition

For Live-Aboard diving enthusiasts this live aboard dive trip represents the ultimate dive vacation. Dives include Osprey Reef, on the Coral Sea with other sites such as Cod Hole, Dynamite Pass, North Horn, Bougainville Reef, Steve's Bommie, Temple of Doom and Flare Point. With Gourmet Meals and the Outstanding Level of Service you will feel like you are aboard your own private yacht.

Day 1 Board Spirit of Freedom at 11:15am at Trinity Wharf (complimentary transfers from Cairns city hotels are available) for a 12 noon departure. Lunch will be served on board while we cruise to the Great Barrier Reef to the north of Cairns, for an afternoon orientation dive and a twilight or night dive.

Days 2 & 3 These two days are spent diving at the most northern of the Ribbon Reefs, Number 9 & 10 Ribbon Reefs, 120 miles to the north of Cairns. You will dive at the Cod Hole, where you encounter a family of massive and very friendly Potato Cod. Other sites may include Wonder-wall, Pixie Pinnacle, Challenger Bay, Two Towers, Lighthouse Bommie, and the Snake Pit, just to name a few. 4 to 5 dives will be available each day, including a night dive on Day 2. On Day 3 you will overnight at beautiful Watson's Bay, Lizard Island, and enjoy a sunset BBQ dinner on the top deck.

Day 4 This morning, after a leisurely breakfast, you have the opportunity to go ashore and explore Lizard Island. At 10:30am you will board a twin-engine light aircraft at Lizard Island for your low level flight over the reef back to Cairns. Arriving back at Cairns airport at approximately 11:30am, the Spirit of Freedom courtesy coach will meet you for your transfer back to your Cairns city hotel.

Operates Departs every Thursday from Cairns 12:00pm & Returns to Cairns 12:00pm every Sunday

Need to Know Diver experience recommendation: Open Water certification with minimum 10 ocean dives including 5 dives in the last 12 months. Less experience may result in limited diving due to environmental conditions. We recommend a Scuba Diver Refresher course prior to your trip.

Diver Health: If you have a medical condition or are currently taking prescription medication, you will need a medical clearance. For further details refer to our Diver Information form or contact our Reservations team.

Luggage Restrictions: Due to light aircraft restrictions, your total weight of your luggage is limited to 20 kilograms/ 45 lb per person, including your dive gear and carry-on luggage.

Snorkelers: Snorkeling on Spirit of Freedom is in waters which are exposed and not ‘calm sheltered waters’. The itinerary is best suited to Scuba Diving and you may not be able to snorkel at every site. There are opportunities to snorkel as the reef top of the Ribbon Reefs are relatively close to the surface. Most of the guests are scuba divers, however experienced snorkelers with a good level of fitness are welcome to join this tour. Please note that a snorkel buddy may not always be available, you may be required to snorkel alone and to wear our floatation equipment. You will be safe under the watchful eye of the 'look-out' crew.

Inclusions Transfers to/from Cairns city accommodation; Low level reef flight - Lizard Island to Cairns; Opportunity for up to 11 dives; Cabin with private bathroom and daily service; Chef prepared meals; Australian wines & soft drinks with evening meals

Upgrades Available Extend this trip to 7 day nights by including the Coral Sea and Ribbon Reefs Adventure

27th Sep (Day 6) - Cairns to Port Douglas Accommodation

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

27th Sep - 1st Oct (Days 6 to 10) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Port Douglas

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Need to know
Hotel subject to availability. If this hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be substituted. Room booked will be preferred unless otherwise listed on your quote.

Insider's 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

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Horseback Riding in the Daintree, Half day

Experience the Aussie bush and rainforest by horse. There is something therapeutic about exploring the natural environment on horseback. Escape the everyday as we ride between two natural wonders of the world - the pristine Daintree Rainforest on one side and the Great Barrier Reef on the other.

Locally owned and operated horse trail rides in one of the world's most scenic settings. For 2 ½ hours, you can choose to walk, trot or canter along the golden sands and through the water followed by a gentle ride through the stunning Daintree rainforest and a tropical fruit orchard. There are two sessions a day - 8.30am for the early risers or 2.30pm for those who want to ride into the sunset! Morning ride departs @ 8.30am and returns @ 11.30am; Afternoon ride departs @ 2.30pm and returns @ 5.30pm.


The rides can be enjoyed by all whether you are a beginner or skilled rider with our team ensuring all are partnered with a horse that suitably reflects their riding ability.

Maximum group size is 15 and we follow a ratio of one guide to every six riders. Once at the beach the group is broken up into smaller groups according to levels of riding experience. This is to ensure that the experienced riders are given the freedom to go for a really good canter along the beach and the beginner riders are given guidance to make their riding experience as enjoyable as possible.

We supply water bottles on the ride and an assortment of soft drinks on your return.

Please wear jeans or long pants, a t-shirt or polo shirt (no singlets) and bring along a pair of socks as we provide riding boots and helmets. Boots, helmets and suitable clothing (if required) are provided on arrival and everyone undertakes a short lesson in horsemanship before getting underway!

Private rides also available upon request (additional cost) - 1 or 2 hour rides, min of 2 passengers required

Min age 7years old.
Max Weight is 240 lbs (110kg)

Insider's 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.

1st Oct (Day 10) - Shuttle Transfer, Port Douglas Accommodation to Cairns

Travel by shuttle from your Port Douglas vacation accommodation to 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.

1st - 3rd Oct (Days 10 to 12) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Cairns

Enjoy 2 nights at your 4-Star Cairns accommodation.

Nestled in the tropical paradise of Cairns, this remarkable hotel captivates guests with its warm hospitality, exceptional service, and breathtaking views. The accommodations offer a harmonious blend of comfort and style, complemented by the hotel's prime location near dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. From the inviting restaurant to the attentive staff, every aspect ensures an unforgettable stay. Discover a tranquil oasis in Cairns that promises cherished memories for discerning travelers.
 
Hotel Amenities
Free Wi-Fi, Swimming Pool, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Bar, Restaurant, Paid Parking, Room Service  
 
Preferred Room
Superior King Balcony - 1 King or 2 Singles - Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Flat Screen TV.
 
Room Upgrades
- Deluxe King Balcony - 1 King or 2 Singles - Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Esplanade, Trinity Inlet, or Ocean Views ; Flat Screen TV.
- Superior King Balcony Suite - 1 King or 2 Singles - Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Corner Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Flat Screen TV.
- Executive Luxury Suite - 1 King or 2 Singles - Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Same level as the pool deck ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities and Luxury Skincare ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Pod coffee machine ; 50-inch Flat Screen TV ; Two-person bath.
 
Need to know
Hotel subject to availability. If this hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be substituted. Room booked will be preferred unless otherwise listed on your quote.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Cape Tribulation & Daintree Wilderness Safari -

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - White Water Rafting on the Barron River - Half

Discover a fun and exciting way to discover the pristine rainforest, with a half day of rafting on the Barron River!

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Located just 20 minutes outside of Cairns, the half day raft is perfectly suited for the first time adventurer! This tour can be arranged from Cairns, the Northern Beaches or Port Douglas.
No previous experience is necessary to raft these exhilarating grade 1 to 3 rapids through the majestic scenery of Barron Gorge National Park. You don't even need to know how to swim as you will be fitted with a helmet and life jacket and have your experienced river guide at your side.

Here you can feel the rush of rafting within the awesome wilderness of Australia's tropical rainforests with operations all year round, tropical water temperatures and breath-taking scenery and rapids. So take a ride through our planet's oldest continuously growing tropical rainforests on rivers that still run totally wild. Take home the memories and be sure to smile as professional photographers take your pictures which are available for purchase at the end of the day! Last stop is at the cafe where you can take a break and have some drinks before returning to your accommodation.

Operates
Daily
Late tour Year Round 2:00pm to 6:00pm (approx.)
Early tour December to April 8:00am to 12:00pm (approx.)

Includes
- Return transfers to Cairns hotel
- All training & equipment

Need to Know
This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form. Please bring swimwear, towel, change of dry clothes, secure footwear such as sandshoes or adventure sandals (no flip-flops), waterproof sunscreen, cap to wear under helmet (optional). Shoe rentals available for $5 if you don’t want your shoes getting wet. Leave jewelry and valuables at your accommodation. Does not include 30$ levy to be paid day of tour. All participants are required to complete a Liability Release prior to rafting. Rafting is not suitable for anyone who is pregnant. It is not guaranteed that all rafters from the same booking will be in the same raft due to operational requirements on the day of travel.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Cape Tribulation Canopy Surf

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. Depart around: 7:00am; Return around: 7:30pm

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

3rd Oct (Day 12) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Cairns 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.

3rd Oct (Day 12) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Ayers Rock

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Ayers Rock (Uluru).

3rd - 5th Oct (Days 12 to 14) - 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.

3rd - 4th Oct (Days 12 to 13) - Tour Pass to include Uluru, the Olgas and Cultural Center

Witness the stunning Uluru sunrise and sunset, venture out on the Walpa Gorge walk at Kata Tjuta and discover the fascinating stories of Uluru on a guided base tour.

Please note that order of tours will vary depending on your arrival times and days. This is a combo tour.

Sunrise/Morning
The early rise is well worth it as you experience the two major landmarks in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.


Start with an amazing sunrise at Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, the Uluru sunrise viewing area. Afterwards, on the 45 kms drive to Kata Tjuta your Driver Guide will provide you with an historical overview of the National Park.

The walk through the sheer walls of Walpa Gorge won’t disappoint as you’re led into a world of rare plant species and lush evergreen scrubs.

Sunset/Afternoon
Talk a short walk at the base of Uluru with your Driver Guide and view ancient paintings and hear stories of traditional Anangu life.

Then head off to the Uluru sunset viewing area. On arrival you'll be served from a selection of Australian wines and nibbles.

You can just sit and relax or stroll around the area to find your own personal space to watch an amazing outback sunset.

Operates
Daily
Morning tour pick-ups are 1.5 hours before sunrise and returns approximately 11:00 - 11:30am, lasting approximately 5 hours (seasonal). Afternoon tour pick-ups are 2:30pm - 3:00pm and returns half an hour after sunset, lasting approximately 5 hours (seasonal).

Includes
- National Park Pass (Entry fee included - Valid for 3 consecutive days)
- Return Transfers to Accommodation
- Experienced Driver/Guide
- Comprehensive commentary
- Air conditioned coach

Need to Know
Full breakfast is not provided. Bringing snacks for breakfast is recommended. Please wear closed walking shoes and warm layers in cooler months. Bring your own water bottle, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen.

Upgrades
BBQ Dinner

Photo: Tourism NT

5th Oct (Day 14) - Australian Domestic Flight, Ayers Rock to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from the Red Centre at Ayers Rock to Sydney.

5th Oct (Day 14) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation

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

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

5th - 8th Oct (Days 14 to 17) - 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 - Fees Apply

6th Oct (Day 15) - Day Tour, Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hr)

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 8x10" 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.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Blue Mountains and Australia 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.

Discover the spectacular World Heritage listed Blue Mountains and see native wildlife. Stretching for over one million hectares, the Blue Mountains is an inspiring mix of rainforest, canyons, tall forests and heathlands, truly one of Australia's natural one wonders.

Your first stop is at Echo Point where you can view the famous Three Sisters rock formation and hear the ancient Aboriginal legends of this impressive rock formation.

Visit the Waradah Aboriginal Centre and expreience Aboriginal song, dance, didgeridoo and culture.

Next, arrive at Scenic World where you will have free time to join the optional rides or grab some morning tea and enjoy the amazing views (own expense).

Discover Leura village, a delightful blend of groomed gardens and quaint shops. Enjoy free time to wander the streets of Leura and enjoy a delicious two course cafe style lunch at the Loaves and Dishes.

Next, experience an afternoon encounter at Featherdale Wildlife Park and have your photo taken with a cuddly koala, see kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and cute little penguins. Full Day Tour.

Depart approximately 8:00 AM, return at approximately 5:45 PM.

Upgrade to small group touring available - please inquire

Insider's Tip: Australian Opals

Altmann & Cherny is a family owned jewellery business in Sydney with an international reputation for excellence in opals and is one of the World’s foremost Australian Opal authorities.

Australia is known as the country of origin for this splendid stone with 95% of the world's precious gem opal found exclusively in Australia. The Australian opal displays all the colors of the rainbow; holding a spectrum of colors found in nature. 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 Rubies.

Established in 1948 in hopes of sharing this unique gemstone with the world, they have built a reputation of providing the highest level of quality, service and value for three generations. Their mantra has always been and will continue to be - "Excellence in service, quality and value." So come share in this unique experience to learn more about Australian Opals at Altmann & Cherny!



Altman + Cherny
18 Pitt St., Sydney, NSW 2000 / Ph: 61 (02) 9251 9477

Hours: Monday - Friday: 9:30am - 5:30pm / Saturday & Sunday 10:00am - 4:00pm

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb - ½ Day

Reach new heights and climb the famous Harbour Bridge in Sydney!

Achieve exhilaration and personal satisfaction as you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For approximately 3.5 hours you and 11 other eager climbers will join a climb guide and weave through catwalks, climb up ladders and then arrive at the most spectacular point of all - the upper arch climb. The steady incline to the upper arch leaves you free to focus your attention on your Sydney experience, with opportunities for 360 degree views of Sydney, including east to the ocean, west to the mountains and the harbor city surrounds.

It is at this point that you not only have a bird's eye view of the beautiful Sydney Harbour and the city, but have the exhilarating and rewarding experience of reaching the top of the iconic Harbour Bridge.

When you reach the top you will have a sense of achievement you'll remember forever - you've conquered an Australian icon recognized the world over! No other Sydney tourist attraction can give you this feeling of standing at the top of the world, with the harbor spread before you.

All climbers will be issued a complimentary photograph of your climb group.

Operates:
Daily, in all weather conditions (except in cases of extreme weather conditions like electrical storms or high winds).

Need to Know:
- Wear comfortable, enclosed rubber-soled shoes and comfortable clothing;
- Secure lockers will be provided to store your personal belongings;
- No cameras, phones, GoPros or other video and mobile devices are allowed on the climb;
- Children ages 8 - 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Children younger than 8 are not permitted on the climb;
- Maximum of 14 people per group.

Times:
The climb lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Climbs are available at dawn (limited departures), day, twilight or night.

Inclusions:
BridgeClimb cap;
Certificate of Achievement;
A complimentary Climb Group photo.

Photo Credit: BridgeClimb Sydney.

8th Oct (Day 17) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

8th Oct (Day 17) - International Flight, Sydney to Vancouver

Depart Sydney from the International Airport and fly to Los Angeles. 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.

8th Oct (Day 17) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Vancouver

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