Tour Sydney Australia & Great Barrier Reef [L28]

Detailed Itinerary

(Day 1) - US Domestic Flight. Home City to Los Angeles (own arrangements)

Your Home City flight to Los Angeles will be selected to suit the International Departure Flight to Australia.

Please allow 3 hours between arrival of your US domestic flight and departure of your International flight.

(Day 1 cont) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Sydney

Travel to Australia on your vacation. After departing from Los Angeles you will be provided with an evening meal. You can relax, have a drink, watch a movie, review your itinerary or just rest. You will be given Breakfast before landing in Sydney, Australia. (You lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don't worry you catch it up again on your return flight to the USA)

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

(Day 2) - 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.

(Days 2 to 4) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Downtown 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 3) - Day Tour, Sydney Opera House Tour

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.

Insider's Tip - Sydney Explorer Bus

Experience all the excitement of Sydney, Australia's famous harbour city, and the capital of NSW with the Big Bus Sydney and Bondi Explorer - Sydney's only Hop-On Hop-Off tourist bus service.

The Sydney and Bondi Tours are included with this pass. The Sydney tour features 23 stops and the Bondi tour features 11 stops.

As well as Sydney’s glorious harbour and stunning beaches the city offers a multi cultural lifestyle, exuberant festivals and events, a dynamic food scene and a striking cityscape of modern and colonial architecture.

Don’t miss a thing aboard this open-top double-decker bus tours with 34 stops in Sydney and Bondi Beach. Plan your own itinerary and visit the landmarks and attractions at your own pace. Buses run frequently so rejoining the tour is easy! Plus, you'll receive a booklet with travel information, detailed maps, discount vouchers and much more!

Be sure to bring your camera to capture all the excitement!

Operates
Daily
9:00am to 4:00pm

Includes
- Hop on Hop off tour
- Sydney & Bondi Beach routes
- 1-day validity
- Up to 34 stops
- Digital commentary
- Free earphones onboard
- Free wifi

Need to Know
Fully flexible tour. Please bring money for lunch.

Upgrades
2-Day Explorer w/Cruise

Day 3 (Optional Day Tour) - The Jenolan Caves and Blue Mountains

Today enjoy a tour to the Jenolan Caves and the Blue Mountains.

Enjoy discovering the beauty of World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park (near Katoomba), taking in views over stunning eucalyptus forests and age-old rock formations and the unusual Blue Lake. Also visit the western spur and see Australia's largest and best known underground limestone caves called Jenolan Caves. Explore this extensive network of caves, tucked away inside a sleepy valley. Enjoy a fully guided tour of the Lucas, Imperial or Chifley caves and discover the deep chamber of intricate limestone formations. Learn about the folklore of the settlers and bushrangers of this region. Overnight tour available.

Operates Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Photo Credit: Jenolan Caves

Day 3 (Optional Day Tour) - Harbor Dinner Cruise

See the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge with spectacular nightime views of the city and surrounds while enjoying dinner as you're cruising on one of the world's most attractive harbours.

Today enjoy the ultimate dining experience on Sydney Harbour. The cruise offers a la carte dining, million dollar views, licensed bar, first class service and quality contemporary Australian cuisine. 1 1/2 Hours

Insider's Tip - Opal Shopping

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

(Day 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

(Day 4 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight, Sydney to Cairns

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

(Day 4 cont) - 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.

(Days 4 to 7) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Beautiful Cairns

Enjoy 3 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.

Insider's 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

(Day 5) - Great Barrier Reef Day Tour (included)

Today you'll go on a cruise to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world, and not surprisingly the world's most extensive coral reef.

Cruise by luxury catamaran to reef activity platforms moored at the ribbon reefs on the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Experience the unsurpassed coral formations, marine life and underwater visibility of the Agincourt Ribbon Reef system where you can explore this reef world. Visit Moore Reef, located on the outer reef, and swim and snorkel, or view the aquatic world from a semi-submersible or glass-bottom boat. Marvel at the spectacular beauty of the reef teeming with tropical fishes, and explore the colourful coral.

The advanced catamaran ensure that your cruise to the Outer Reef is pure enjoyment from the moment you step aboard. Relax in the luxury of the spacious air-conditioned cabin areas with fully licensed bar, or sit outside and enjoy the cool sea breezes.

Operates
Daily
Pick up 8:00am and Returns 4:45pm (approx.)
Check-in at the marina begins 9:15am and boarding 9:30am

Includes
- Return transfers
- Morning & afternoon tea
- Tropical smorgasbord lunch
- Snorkel equipment
- Use of lycra suit
- Semi-submarine tour
- Underwater observatory
- Informative talk by a marine biologist
- Environmental Management Charge

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. Bar is at own expense, cash only. Please bring with you towels, swimsuit, camera, hat, sunscreen, and change of clothes. Professional photo service is available onboard. Bring credit cards for optional shopping and tours. Fuel surcharge may be applicable.

Upgrades
Certified Scuba Diving, Introductory Scuba Diving, Ocean Walker Helmet Diving, Scenic Helicopter Flight, Advanced or Introductory Adventure Snorkel with Marine Biologist

Optional Upgrade (Pricing Available On Request) - Great Barrier Reef Helicopter Ride

Take a helicopter over the Daintree Rainforest before meeting up with a platform stationed out on the magnificent Great Barrier Reef.

Experience a scenic helicopter flight over the lush, tropical Daintree Rainforest, flying over pure white sand cays and viewing the amazing kaleidoscope of colors which make the Great Barrier Reef.

Land at Marine World platform, which caters to all activity levels.

Snorkel in the sheltered coral lagoon, join a Marine Biologist on a Guided Snorkel safari, or go scuba diving (no experience necessary)

For those not confident in swimming, stay dry and view the reef from the semi-submersible reef viewer, glass bottom boat or underwater observatory or try a Helmet Dive for a scuba-style experience without getting your hair wet.

If simply relaxing & soaking up the tropical warmth is more your style then take time out on the spacious sundeck where you will also find the regions only reef-based massage therapist.  You'll have plenty of time to do it all!

At the end of the day, you will head back to Cairns aboard a fast, stable catamaran.

Operates

Daily

Need to Know

- Minimum passenger numbers may apply.
- With fluctuations in world oil prices, it may be necessary to apply a fuel surcharge to the ticket price. In such cases any charge will be collected on departure.
- Flight may be canceled due to inclement weather
- Infants 0-2 FOC
- Due to Aviation Weight Restrictions a client’s body and luggage weight must be advised

Times

Full Day Tour - Times to be advised after booking.

Inclusions

- Return Transfers from Cairns or Northern Beach accommodation
- 1 Way Helicopter Flight to Reef Platform
- 1 Way Cruise from Platform to Cairns
- All snorkeling equipment including personal flotation devices in adult/child sizes
- FREE Wet suit and lycra suit use for year round comfort and in-water safety. Wet suits are 5mm with short arms/legs. Lycra suits provide fantastic sun protection and in season are useful in reducing the risk of jelly fish stings.
- Semi-Submersible tours with interactive commentary
- Glass Bottom Boat tours with interactive commentary
- Fish feeding and identification session with our Marine Biologist
- Underwater Observatory
- Use of Sundeck, Fresh Water Showers and Changing Rooms
- Morning/Afternoon Tea plus a full hot/cold buffet lunch with vegetarian options
- Tea/Coffee and drinking water is available free of charge throughout the day
- Access to reference materials on the reef

Upgrades

Return Helicopter Flight

(Day 6) - Kuranda Village, Skyrail and Train Ride

Today you'll board the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway for an awe-inspiring journey to Kuranda. You'll enjoy exploring Kuranda Village and gliding over the rainforest canopy aboard Skyrail, the "World's Most Beautiful Rainforest Experience."

Travel onboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway from Cairns as this famous historic journey winds its way along the Kuranda Range through 15 tunnels and over 40 bridges passing the impressive Stoney Creek and Barron Falls, considered to be one of the world's most spectacular railway journeys.

Spend free time in Kuranda "Village in the Rainforest" your destination, wandering the many shops and markets offering a full range of local and unique handcrafts, souvenirs and gifts. The Australian Butterfly Sanctuary (optional own expense) is renowned to be amongst the worlds largest, offering the visitor a close look at these beautiful creatures. Other optional attractions include Birdworld, boasting over 70 species of Australian and Exotic birds.

Return to Cairns via Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, renowned as the "World's Most Beautiful Rainforest Experience." Glide over the rainforest canopy and take advantage of the two stops en route to enjoy a rainforest walk and the magnificent view of the Barron Falls. Be sure to visit the CSIRO Rainforest Interpretive Centre which features hi-tech interactive displays and video presentations.

Operates
Daily except Christmas
Departs 8:00am and Returns 3:30pm (approx.)

Includes
- Bus pick-up from accommodation
- Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
- Kuranda Scenic Railway

Need to Know
Tour may operate in reverse. Lunch is not provided, but you may bring money for cafe. Tour concludes at the Cairns Central Railway Station and you will make your own way back to your accommodation.

Discover the Skyrail App: Using GPS technology and an innovative design, the Skyrail app allows you to fully immerse yourself in the ancient rainforest’s remarkable story of survival over an outstanding 130 million years. Unlock this ancient landscape’s many secrets and gain fascinating insights about the world’s oldest tropical rainforest when you download the Skyrail app.

Upgrades
Diamond View, Gold Class

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sail Away to the Low Isles

Enjoy a day to remember with a sail out to the protected Low Isles, an unspoiled coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef on this high-end small group tour.

Set sail to the Great Barrier Reef on a 5-star Luxury Lagoon 500 Catamaran, Sailaway. Your destination, a protected island situated on a large coral platform consisting of a small coral cay, a large mangrove island, mudflats, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. Surrounded by 55 acres of coral reef, comprised of 150 species of hard corals and dominated by 15 species of soft corals, this is an ideal place for snorkeling.

Living in the blue lagoon are a large variety of reef fish including angelfish, damselfish, anemones, giant trevally, sweetlip, fusiliers and many green turtles are sighted daily. Be sure not to miss out on the Heritage Walk where you can learn about the islands history and environment and visit the lighthouse built in 1878. There are also a number of bird species including pelicans, honeyeaters, white breasted wood swallows, mangrove kingfishers, reef egrets with sea eagles and ospreys wheeling overhead.

Operates
Daily
Times
Pick up from Port Douglas Area from 7:30am
Pick up from Cairns or Northern Beachs from 6:30am
Departs Port Douglas Marina 8:30am, Returns 4:00pm
(approximate times)

Highlights & Inclusions
- Transfers from Port Douglas, Cairns or Northern Beach Hotel;
- Morning tea & coffee upon boarding (Local produce) with muffins and pastries;
- Afternoon tea and coffee, additional cut fresh fruit platter and home-made cakes;
- Superb tropical buffet lunch (including prawns);
- Snorkeling equipment, optical masks, seasonal Lycra snorkeling suits, wet suits & flotation devices;
- Snorkeling instruction and in-water assistance;
- Guided snorkel tour with a marine guide;
- Glass bottom boat viewing and reef interpretation;
- Eco Shamba Environmental Initiative $20AUD local forestation;
- Low Isles Heritage Walk;
- 4.5 hours at Tropical Low Isles;
- The experience of sailing on board the luxury sailing catamaran Sailaway VI.

Need to Know
If intending to snorkel, passengers are required to complete a Medical Declaration for Snorkelers form (available upon booking) which will assist the tour crew to identify passengers who are either AT RISK and require additional supervision or passengers who are HIGH RISK and not suitable to participate in the activity of snorkeling due to a combination of factors i.e. Age, Physical health, swimming ability, mobility. If guests are unsure if they may be HIGH RISK and not suitable to snorkel, then we suggest a recent medical certificate would be acceptable if they are a capable swimmer.

If a passenger is identified as a HIGH RISK snorkeler they will not be permitted to snorkel.

Identifying a High Risk Snorkeler

To identify a HIGH RISK SNORKELER the passenger would have a COMBINATION of the following risks:

- Age – any person over 70 years old
- Medical history – any person with health issues identified particularly heart issues, epilepsy, overweight, limited mobility (i.e. unable to put on fins and safely use the ladders)
- Swimming ability – any person with the above who has not swum in the ocean recently
- Communication difficulty – Passenger not understanding safety briefings
- Non-Swimmer / Poor swimmer

Crew reserves the right to decline any passenger from participating in snorkeling if there is a concern about the health condition and/or swimming ability of a passenger for the safety and well-being of all guests onboard.

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

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

Scenic morning hot air balloon ride over the Atherton Tablelands.

Whether this is your first or one of many, this balloon ride is sure to be one of your favorites. In the morning, head about an hour west for take off to the Atherton Tablelands known for its excellent weather, spectacular scenery, and reliable take off conditions. You will be in awe as you see the largest fleet of hot air balloons prepare to sail the skies. On your ride, take in the picturesque landscapes at sunrise as you fly gently above the Tablelands. Even if you have a fear of heights, you'll see that your flight is very gentle and stable since you gently lift from the ground making you feel comfortable and safe. Experience the unique sensation of breathing in the crisp air on your 30 minute hot air ballooning ride across the wide-open space. When the burner is off, listen to the sounds around you as the wind whips through the air and the sounds below drift up towards you. After your flight, come back down to Earth for landing and have lots of laughs as you assist in hot air balloon pack-up games.

Operates
Daily; Weekends and Holidays may incur an additional surcharge after booking.
Departs 5:30am, Returns 10:00am (approx.)

Includes
- Return transfers from your accommodation
- Hot air balloon ride
- Digital photo package
- Glass of bubbly or juice on landing

Need to Know
Children must be 3+ to participate in ride and women 3+ months pregnant are not permitted to fly. Please dress in casual outdoor layered clothing (white clothing not recommended). Please bring a hat, sunglasses, & bottle of water. All tours are weather permitting. Passengers must be able to climb INTO the basket unaided, so that in the event of an emergency passengers are also able to climb out of the basket without assistance. The side of the basket is approximately 4ft high with two footholds to use like a ladder when climbing into the basket. Flight altitude is approximately 2,500 feet. Do no dive the night before your flight.

Upgrades
Luxury balloon tour (minimum 2 people), Private balloon charter for two

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Wooroonooran Safari

Journey to the ancient and undiscovered, World Heritage listed rainforest of Wooroonooran National Park.

Wooroonooran National Park is located half an hour drive south of Cairns city. It offers stunning pristine rainforest with fantastic World Heritage attractions. This area of unsurpassed beauty contains the 2 highest mountains in Queensland, numerous rivers, waterfalls, swimming holes and some of the World's lushest and most ancient rainforests.

You can revitalize yourself in tranquil rainforest settings. In addition to the educational first-hand rainforest experience, the tour also includes fun activities you may never have experienced before, including crocodile spotting and bird watching. Brilliant photographic opportunities abound at each location. This tour will provide you with awesome lifetime memories.

Highlights include: Curtain Fig Tree; Millaa Millaa Falls; Josephine Falls and Mulgrave River Cruise.

(Day 7) - 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.

(Day 7 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Brisbane.

(Day 7 cont) - International Flight, Brisbane to Los Angeles

Mid-day Departure from Brisbane, In-flight Dinner and Movie with arrival in the USA. Note: You will be traveling back across the International Date line so you will gain a day. You actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Australia.

(Day 7 cont) - US Domestic Flight, Los Angeles to Your Home City (own arrangements)

The connection flight to your Home City from Los Angeles.

Please allow 3 hours between arrival of International flight before departure of your US domestic flight.