Adventures In Scuba Custom Opt 2 [CU2997A]

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.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Cape Tribulation & Canopy 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.

Optional Evening Event (Not Included) - Flames of the Forest Dinner

Dine on an award winning tropical banquet including local exotic produce and Australian wines. All this as you sit in flickering candlelight by a rushing mountain creek under the canopy of the rainforest.

Journey to a hidden place, you are collected from your accommodation, and leave the highway down a winding road as the forest welcomes you into the night. In a secluded glade your evening begins greeted with sparkling wine and hors d'oeuvres you are introduced to a culture that has been in existence for over forty thousand years.




The evening unfolds as it would have many generations before with an ancient tale from the Aboriginal Dreamtime. After dessert, enjoy some Daintree tea and local coffee, explore the river surrounds or simply sit back & let the sounds of the rainforest tell its own story.

And finally, before you depart, if you leave your mark in our handmade book of trees, one tree will be planted from that signature and you will have contributed to preserve local habitats, and these soul nurturing rainforests will last another million years.

Available Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. April - December Only.
Flames of the Forest is not suitable for children under six.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - White Water Rafting

White Water Rafting on the Barron River

Experience the thrill of white water rafting down the Barron River. No previous experience is necessary to raft these exhilarating grade 2 and 3 rapids through Barron Gorge National Park. Passengers need to bring a swimming suit, lace up shoes or reef sandals that will get wet, sunscreen and a change of clothes and towel.

1/2 Day Tour departs 12:30 pm and returns 6:30 on Tues/Thur/Sat/Sun
Minimum age required is 13yrs old.
AUD$25.00 Environmental Levy to be paid at the time of the Raft Ride.

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 - 2nd Oct (Days 10 to 11) - 1 Night Accommodation in Tropical 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.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Cairns Wildlife Dome

The Cairns Wildlife Dome is a spectacular all-weather wildlife exhibit, encased by a 20-meter-high glass dome right in the heart of Cairns. You’ll be immersed in a rainforest environment whilst parrots, cockatoos, lorikeets, and other birds native to the Wet Tropics region fly freely around, with the opportunity to observe free-roaming rainforest wallabies and view bettongs, curlews, frogmouths, kookaburras, frogs, turtles, pythons, crocodiles and lizards.

Enjoy included guided tours, daily interactive animal presentations, and great photo opportunities. You'll have a blast as you watch the afternoon feedings, get up close with a crocodile, watch the free flying birds, cuddle with furry friends and watch the nocturnal creatures awaken. Don't miss out on taking your photo with a koala (own expense)! If you do, “No worries!” – your ticket is good for re-entry for up to 4 additional days.

Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome is home to the world's first Challenge Ropes Course in a wildlife park! If you are looking for some adventure, be sure to add-on a ZOOM activity.
 
Included Wildlife Shows:
Cockatoo Feeding Tour, Reptile Show, Koala Talk, Crocodile Show, Nocturnal Mammals Show

Operates
Daily (Excluding Christmas Day, December 25); 9:00am - 6:15pm Sunday - Friday & 9:00am - 8:00pm Saturday

Need to Know
Minimum age for any ZOOM activity is 6 years. Height & Weight Restrictions apply to ZOOM Activities (not included). Pre-existing medical conditions: It is your responsibility to assess whether you are fit enough to take part in ZOOM activities. A waiver will be required. Pregnant women ineligible to participate in ZOOM activities. Skirts and dresses not allowed. Enclosed footwear with good grip recommended – no sandals. Long hair must be tied back.

Upgrades
Koala or Reptile Photo; Private Wildlife Experience; Zoom Activities, choose 1 or more: Mid-ZOOM or Hi-Zoom - Experience adventure at varying heights and levels of difficulty on the Mid-ZOOM and Hi-ZOOM courses, with 65 elements of crossings and ziplines: including one which takes you directly over our 13-foot saltwater crocodile! The PowerJump - a free-fall adventure with a 13m drop; DomeClimb - offers spectacular views of the city, the Coral Sea and surrounding landscapes. The Pirate Climb; Commando Rope Climb; Slack Line

Insiders Tip: The Esplanade

Experience the leisurely atmosphere at the playground for locals and tourists alike at The Esplanade in Cairns!

With so many activities available The Esplanade has always been a focal point for this city. This is a place that literally has everything! Take a stroll and do some bird watching on the boardwalk but as you enjoy the views don't forget to stop off at Foreshore Promenade for a bite to eat at the many available restaurants. Access to The Lagoon is easy here which is set overlooking the Barrier Reef and Trinity inlet and features all year free swimming where you can take a dip in this filtered saltwater lagoon. Let the kids can play in the sandy edges and in the shallow waters while you lounge on the semi-shaded timber decks. For the kids, don't miss out on the Trinity Bay foreshore playground "Muddy" with equipment for all ages. For the older kids, stop off at the Skate Park to see some skaters and BMXers in action! Whether you decide to take a morning jog, fly a kite or just relax in the large grassy areas for some lunch you will surely enjoy the tropical lifestyle!

If you happen to be in Cairns on a Saturday be sure to check out the Weekend Markets which feature only locally made arts and crafts, clothing and much more. While you're there listen out for the live music and fun street characters. The market gets into full swing on the promenade (just by the lagoon) every Saturday between 8am - 4pm.

Lagoon Hours: All Year, 6am-9pm
Closed Wednesdays until midday for maintenance

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sunset Cruise

On your vacation, enjoy a sunset cruise in Cairns.

Enjoy the thrill of pure sailing! Relax with an exhilarating afternoon onboard the new luxury 'Lagoon' sailed from France. Soak up the peace and tranquillity of a Tropical Sunset over the Coral Sea with spectacular mountain views while enjoying a welcome drink and canapés.This one and a half hour sunset cruise has you back by 7pm at the wharf, just in time to carry on to your favourite restaurant or explore the exciting nightlife in Cairns.

Minimum age 12

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Cairns Night Zoo

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

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

2nd Oct (Day 11) - 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.

2nd Oct (Day 11) - 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.

2nd Oct (Day 11) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Vancouver

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