Blue Water Divers Opt 1 [CD1483]

Summary

Blue Water Divers Opt 1 [CD1483] 11 Days / 9 Nights - Australia

Cairns city is home to many unique attractions and activities to experience when you visit. Enjoy a cruise and snorkel or dive in the Great Barrier Reef, which is listed by the World Heritage Society and also acclaimed as one of the world's most wonderful assets or take a safari to the outback. You may want to trek into the Kuranda, or one of the other Wet Tropical Rainforests or view the green canopies from the cableway above. These year round natural attractions are truly memorable and inspiring.

The Spirit of Freedom is located off of Australia's north eastern town of tropical Cairns. Cairns is Australia's gateway for two of the world's greatest diving icons, the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea.

Enjoy an adventurous night as you sleep on the Great Barrier Reef. The Great Barrier Reef is a broad chain of 2,900 individual reefs and is the Earth's largest structure built by living organisms, being clearly visible from space. It is an ecosystem of unsurpassed marine diversity and presents the diver with a vision of exquisite natural beauty. Beyond the continental shelf that harbours the Great Barrier Reef, lie the isolated reef systems and crystal clear waters of Australia's Coral Sea. This is home territory for huge schools of pelagic fish and sharks in an undersea world of mountains, pinnacles and sheer walls laced with gorgonian fans and rising from thousands of feet below.

Relax and enjoy one more night in the beautiful and vibrant city of Cairns.

Features

  • Accommodation - Cairns (1 Night), Live-Aboard Dive Vessel (7), Cairns (1)
  • US Domestic Flights are not included as per your request
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Cairns via Melbourne, Cairns to Los Angeles via Brisbane
  • Australian Domestic Flight - Cairns to Horn Island
  • Shuttle Transfers - Cairns Airport to Accommodation, Cairns Accommodation to Airport for Diving Expedition, Cairns Accommodation to Airport
  • Live-Aboard Diving Expedition - Transfer from Horn Island airport, Transfer to Cairns city accommodation, Opportunity for dives, En-suite cabin with daily service, Environmental Marine Park Levy, Chef prepared meals, Australian wine & soft drinks with evening meals.
  • All Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (Lawrence Only)
  • F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
  • All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)

Detailed Itinerary

26th Oct 2018 (Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Melbourne
26th Oct 2018 (Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Melbourne Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Melbourne.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!
Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).
28th Oct (Day 2) - Australian Domestic Flight, Melbourne to Cairns
Travel within Australia by domestic air from Melbourne to Cairns
28th Oct (Day 2) (Voucher 1) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to Accommodation
28th Oct (Day 2) (Voucher 1) - 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.
28th - 29th Oct (Days 2 to 3) (Voucher 2) - 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.
Optional Evening Event (Not Included) - Tjapukai Night Fire
More than just a dinner and show; Tjapukai Night Fire takes you on a magical adventure into the legends of Australia's dreamtime.


Here you will enter another world as Australia's Aboriginal culture is brought to life through a series of award winning performances as you feast on modern cuisine from the Far North. Settle in for a magical night of entertainment as you journey into a Dreamtime legend to discover the magic of Australia's ancient Aboriginal culture.

Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival before the performers lead a didgeridoo blessing ceremony followed by a spectacular fire performance and cultural dance celebration.

If you're keen, you can even take to the stage to learn a traditional dance yourself! This evening of entertainment is complemented by a delicious dinner, photo opportunity with the Tjapukai warriors & even time to shop in the retail gallery full of authentic souvenirs.

Operates Daily, except Christmas Day (December 25). Event is from 7:00pm - 10:00pm.

Need to Know Child pricing and family rates are available on request.

Inclusions Welcome Drink and Canapes; Delicious Buffet Dinner; Didgeridoo Journey; Fire-making Ceremony; Tjapukai Dance Performance; Fireside Farewell
Insider's Tip: The Esplanade in Cairns
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
29th Oct (Day 3) (Voucher 3) - 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.
29th Oct (Day 3) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Horn Island
29th Oct (Day 3) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Horn Island Travel by domestic air to your destination.
29th Oct - 5th Nov (Days 3 to 10) (Voucher 4) - 8 Day / 7 Night Far Northern Reefs Diving Expedition
Join Spirit of Freedom for a rare opportunity to dive the Far Northern Great Barrier Reef. One of the last totally pristine areas of the Great Barrier Reef, these isolated reefs are off-shore from the remotest northern tip of the Cape York peninsula, and many of the hundreds of reefs in the region are yet to be fully explored.
This tour commences at Horn Island, a tropical island in the Torres Straight above Australia. You will spend five days diving the oceanic wilderness of the Far Northern Reefs as well as one day on the Ribbon Reefs, north of Cairns. There will be opportunity for 24 - 26 dives at around 20 unique sites, combining exploratory diving with our favourite dive sites in the region, and travelling over 600 nautical miles, (1000 + Km). Experience an amazing diversity of underwater landscapes including deep oceanic walls laced with massive gorgonians, whips and soft corals; gardens of impressive coral formations; and isolated pinnacles, bays, caves and canyons. The many small islands in this region are also nesting grounds for the green sea turtle, and from October to March each year thousands of turtles return to their natal (birth) beach. While the islands are totally protected from public access, the surrounding waters are active with turtles. Other marine life encounters we experience in this region include a variety of species of sharks and rays, and schools of pelagic fish, as well as incredible amount of diverse macro life.

The lighter winds of our early summer generally offer the best opportunity to dive the outer walls of the Far Northern Reefs. The style of diving (including various forms of entries and exits), and the conditions, are for the experienced diver, and we recommend this tour for more seasoned divers, with a good degree of fitness.

Tour Begins: From Horn Island. Monday 4:00pm; Tour Ends: Trinity Wharf, Cairns the following Monday 7:30am.

Itinerary:
Day 1: Board the Spirit of Freedom from Horn Island 3 -4:00pm. (Overnight travel)
Days 2 -5: Diving Far North region
Day 6: Diving Far North - Tijou Reef region
Day 7: Diving No. 5 Ribbon Reefs at dive sites such as Steve’s Bommie. (Overnight travel)
Day 8: Arrive Trinity Wharf Cairns around 6:00am for a light breakfast on-board & transfers to Cairns city hotels 7:30am.

Inclusions: 7 nights on board Spirit of Freedom; 6 dive days with 24-26 dives, tanks & weights; All meals, Australian wine, soft drinks and beers with evening meal, tea & coffee; Daily cabin service
5th - 6th Nov (Days 10 to 11) (Voucher 5) - 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.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - 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
Optional Evening Event (Not Included) - Evening Meal, Ochre Restaurant
Enjoy a gourmet meal at Cairn's most rewarded restaurant and mingle with the locals.


Perhaps the best known of all Cairns' restaurants is the multi award-winning Ochre Restaurant, which serves modern Australian cuisine with flair and creativity. Owner, Craig Squire is the talented chef who has worked tirelessly to make Ochre the success it is today. Mr Squire can often be found in the kitchen where he prepares and perfects Ochre's menu of dishes. He is a wanted man, in the guise of guest chef at many of the world's classiest establishments and 5-star kitchens of restaurants and hotels from Dubai to Shanghai.


Ochre Restaurant specialises in local and native produce with a daily catch of seafood and premium Australian beef tenderloin most recently recognized as "Best Beef" at Royal Brisbane Show. Some of their most famous dishes include Salt and Pepper Prawn and Crocodile, Grilled Kangaroo with Quandong Chilli Glaze, Wattleseed Pavlova and their Australian Antipasto Plate - the latter of which is a great meal to start giving diners a delicious insight into the country's cuisine.

The menu is an excellent read for any visitor and delivers on taste and value-for-money. Be sure to leave room for dessert which the Lonely Planet Guide urges its readers to try with the quote desserts worth moving to Cairns for.

Ochre Restaurant is Cairns most awarded restaurant. Late in 2006 it increased its cache winning both Best Modern Australian and Tourism Restaurant categories at North Queensland's Annual Restaurant and Caterer's Awards and has continued to win many local awards since.

This restaurant is a short walking distance from most accommodations in central Cairns.

Closed Christmas Day
6th Nov (Day 11) (Voucher 6) - 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.
6th Nov (Day 11) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Brisbane
Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Brisbane.
6th Nov (Day 11) - International Flight, Brisbane to Los Angeles
6th Nov (Day 11) - 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.