Upon arrival at airport in Australia, you will be warmly met by a representative, who will provide assistance and transfer to your accommodation to check-in.

Activities:

• The remainder of the day is at leisure to begin exploring Melbourne. Melbourne is a multicultural city with a vibrant artistic life and is regarded as one of the culinary, sporting and shopping capitals of Australia, with a wide selection of museums, art galleries, theatres and festivals.

Overnight: Melbourne

Activities:

• You are collected for your half day tour this morning. The tour of the city will allow you to enjoy the attractions of marvellous Melbourne in a relaxed and entertaining way. Your guide will bring to life the buildings and the rich history of this city. Enjoy a walk on the park, visit the Cathedral (when permitted), have a coffee (own cost), just like if you were in your own city. Visit Eureka Skydeck 88.
• Highlights: Southern Cross Station, Collins St, Rialto Building, Supreme Court, Old Royal Mint, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market (visit except Monday and Wednesdays when is closed) Melbourne University, Lygon St, Melbourne Museum, Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens, Victorian Cottages, Old Melbourne Gaol, City Baths, RMIT University, Melbourne Central Shopping Centre, State Library, Old GPO (now a shopping Centre), Gothic Bank, Block Arcade, Manchester United Building, Town Hall, Regent Theatre, Melbourne Club, Treasury Building, State Parliament, Windsor Hotel, Princess Theatre, St Patricks Cathedral (visit) Fitzroy Gardens (visit) – Cooks Cottage own expense, Sports Precinct (MCG, Tennis Centre) Yarra River, St Pauls Cathedral, Flinders St Station, Federation Square, Princess Bridge, Concert Hall, Arts Centre, Southgate, St Kilda Road, National Gallery of Victoria, Kings Domain, Shrine of Remembrance and Royal Botanic Gardens (time to visit one of the attractions or have a coffee), South Yarra, Albert Park Lake (Formula 1) St Kilda, Port Phillip Bay, Port Melbourne, Crown Casino. Visit Eureka Skydeck 88 (included).

Please note: the group size will determine the possibility of doing more stops for photos, etc.On days when public events are being held or due to road works we may have to alter the itinerary.

• You morning tour concludes approximately 11:30 at the Eureka Skydeck, with some time at leisure before you rejoin your coach for your Philip Island tour.
• The Phillip Island Tour is full of new experiences and dramatic views. The attractions you visit have a particular focus on the protection of wildlife and conservation local history and breathtaking scenery.
• The first port of call is Churchill Island to visit the historic working farm that will give you a glimpse into a day in the lives of the first settlers on this remote island.
• A visit to the Koala Conservation Centre guarantees a close-up encounter with these furry little fellas in their natural habitat. You can often see wallabies and echidnas in the wild at the centre.
• Stop for a boardwalk at The Nobbies where you can appreciate the full force of the ocean and maybe spot a few penguin nests. In summer months stop off in Cowes for a stroll along the pier and a local seafood dish. (not included). Arrive at the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre with time to shop, have a coffee and meander down to the viewing platform to see the amusing arrival of the little penguins coming in on the surf.

*photos and videos of the little penguins are not permitted / *warm and waterproof clothes recommended

Overnight: Melbourne – (B)

Activities:

• You are collected from your hotel for your tour today. The tour of the Great Ocean Road allows passengers the time to fully enjoy views of one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world. Walk through an authentic eucalyptus forest, listen to and see native birds, come into close contact with koalas and wallabies at the renowned Great Ocean Road Ecolodge, watch the ocean crashing on the rocks, stop for a coffee or a walk on the beach and finally be blown away by the ancient rock formations – the Twelve Apostles. Visitors won’t be taking home just photos, they’ll be taking memories.
• Highlights: Scenic drive South West of Melbourne past the City of Geelong (Victoria’s second largest city).
• Spectacular views of the Southern Ocean known as the Surf Coast. Stop for a coffee at Split Point Lighthouse a good photo opportunity! Small groups allow for more regular photo stops along the way to make the most of the views.
• Wildlife in the area (depending on the season) include, whales, dolphins, kangaroos, echidnas, bandicoots, and many different birds.
• Apollo Bay has a variety of cafes and restaurants to stop at for lunch (not included).
• See koalas and kangaroos close-up on the Eucalyptus Forest Walk at the renowned Great Ocean Road Ecolodge (exclusive offer by Oceania).
• Visit the spectacular Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.

*please remain on the paths and designated areas at all times (snakes and unstable cliffs are a danger) *walking shoes are needed for forest walk

Overnight: Melbourne – (B, L)

Activities:

• Today is at leisure to explore Melbourne further. Melbourne, the gateway to Victoria, is an eclectic city of casual elegance, characterised by an interesting blend of modern and Victorian architecture, attractive parks and lush ornamental gardens. Set on the banks of the Yarra River, the city’s unique geographical position means that it is possible, within a day, to visit the coast, ski in the Victoria Alps and visit one of the many Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula vineyards that produce world-class red and white wines.
• Whether you’re after high fashion or fine art, Melbourne’s ever evolving shopping choices make it difficult to decide where to start your spree. Explore the reinvented Melbourne Central, discover the new precincts QV and GPO and lose yourself in laneways and arcades. QV is Melbourne’s new inner city laneway precinct featuring a dynamic mix of high-end fashion and lifestyle retailers and a European style piazza with cafes, restaurants and bars. QV is located between Swanston and Russell streets and Lonsdale and Little Lonsdale streets. Catch any tram that runs along Swanston Street or take the train to Melbourne Central. Paid parking is available onsite. Melbourne’s historic network of laneways and arcades boasts the unique, the exotic and the quirky. Discover an eclectic and delightful mix of small boutiques selling everything from Melbourne designed fashion to Russian dolls and lollipops. Find and explore the Block, Cathedral and Royal arcades, Degraves and Crossley streets, Presgrove and Centre places and more.

Overnight: Melbourne – (B)

Activities:

• After Breakfast check-out of your rooms for a transfer by private vehicle to the airport for your flight to Sydney.
• Upon arrival in Sydney, you will be met by a local representative (for groups only) and assisted with your private transfer to your accommodation. Radiating from the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour, Australia’s largest city stretches from the shores of the Pacific Ocean to the foot of the Blue Mountains. Along with outstanding natural assets – stunning beaches, extensive parklands and the vast expanse of the harbour – Sydney boasts an impressive list of urban attractions, including world class shopping venues and a host of superb restaurants and nightclubs. Its cityscape ranges from sandstone buildings of Georgian elegance to skyscrapers of futuristic design.
• Enjoy the day exploring Sydney at your leisure.

Overnight: Sydney – (B)

Activities:

• Depart your hotel for an unforgettable half day Sydney city sights tour. Personal, luxury, small group touring in a world famous city.
• On tour you’ll visit the historic Rocks area and hear early convict history.
• Enjoy magnificent views of the Opera House & Harbour Bridge. See the shopping heart of the city, QVB, Centrepoint. Visit Sydney’s trendy new district Oxford Street. Travel through elegant Paddington with its terrace houses before arriving at the Pacific Ocean.
• See the superb coast cliff walk around Tamarama and Bronte.
• Travel on to famous Bondi Beach. Visit the beachfront promenade, enjoy a coffee or cool drink (at own cost). See bronzed Aussie lifesavers & Sydney’s best panoramic view.
• Return to Sydney via Double Bay, Kings Cross & city centre.
• Conclude your morning touring at Circular Quay. Take a short walk to the Sydney Opera House, described as the Eighth Wonder of the World for a guided tour.
• This afternoon return to Circular Quay for your afternoon cruise on magnificent Sydney Harbour. See spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Fort Denison, million dollar mansions and the bays and inlets that dot the harbour.
• At the conclusion of your cruise you are free at leisure to explore the harbour and city area.

Overnight: Sydney – (B)

Activities:

• Breakfast will be served in the hotel restaurant this morning. You are collected this morning for your full day tour. Small group backcountry 4WD sightseeing in the breathtaking Blue Mountains. See kangaroos, koalas, waterfalls, the 3 Sisters, hidden canyons. Enjoy fully inclusive morning tea in the bush as well as a superb lunch in a historic Blue Mountains hotel. Travel in A/C, luxury All Terrain vehicles seating 6-18 passengers. Enjoy full commentary with expert driver/guide.
• Depart your city hotel this morning and travel across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, past the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games site before enjoying morning tea with wild kangaroos deep in the Australian bush. See kangaroos up close plus friendly parrots and cockatoos. In the high Blue Mountains today you’ll see waterfalls, magnificent canyons and Australia’s most famous sight – the remarkable 3 Sisters.
• Travel on backcountry 4WD tracks leading to amazing lookouts that only our modified, small group vehicles can access.
• Lunch today is at a gorgeous historic mountain hotel with fantastic views, great food and friendly Aussie hospitality.
• This afternoon, visit the thrilling Scenic Railway in Katoomba (optional). Ride the steepest passenger railway in the world (entry is at own expense) or enjoy a short walk to nearby Katoomba waterfalls & gallery. Mid afternoon, overnight passengers are picked up/dropped off at their Katoomba hotel before we return to Sydney.
• En route to Sydney see, photograph, pat Koalas and Kangaroos at Sydney’s premier Australian animal wildlife park.
• Return to all Sydney city hotels for drop-offs having enjoyed a Blue Mountains day with memories for a life time.

Overnight: Sydney – (B, L)

Activities:

• This morning transfer by private vehicle to the Sydney Airport for your flight to Brisbane.
• On arrival to Brisbane, you are met by a local representative (for group passengers only) and assisted with a private transfer to your accommodation on the Gold Coast (approximately 1 hours drive). Located an hour’s drive south of Brisbane and stretching along 70 kilometres of coastline lies Australia’s vibrant Gold Coast. The impressive coastal strip is dominated by high-rise accommodation, retail and tourist shops, international-standard resorts and restaurants, nightclubs and neon signs. The most famous stretch of Gold Coast beach is glittering Surfers Paradise.

Overnight: The Gold Coast

Activities:

• Transfer by shuttle coach service to Dreamworld. Visit Dreamworld, Australia’s largest theme park. Home to awesome thrill rides, Nick Central, Tiger Island, Australian wildlife and more. Dreamworld Thrill rides – Some of the tallest and fastest thrill rides in the world including the Cyclone Rollercoaster, Tower of Terror, Giant Drop, Wipeout and The Claw. Family Fun – The whole family will get a buzz out of Dreamworld’s family favourites including the Thunder River Rapids, the Rocky Hollow Log Ride, the Imax Theatre and the new Runaway Reptar Rollercoaster.
• The Australian Wildlife Experience – One of the largest native wildlife parks in South East Queensland where guests can cuddle a koala, feed a kangaroo, get up close with the big crocs interact with heaps of other native animals and birds and maybe even shear a sheep at the farm show.
• Tiger Island – the only tiger facility of its kind – where tigers play wrestle and swim with their handlers every day. Home to seven rare Bengal tigers, one Sumatran Tiger and two cougars.
• Blue Lagoon Water Park – Complete with thrilling waters slides and pools for the whole family. Open September through April.
• Nick Central – The newest and largest kids zone on the Gold Coast bursting with rides and attractions themed on today’s top Nickelodeon cartoon characters including the Rugrats, Blues Clues, SpongeBob Square Pants and lots more.
• Return by shuttle coach service to your accommodation at the end of the day.

Overnight: Gold Coast

Activities:

• Today is at leisure for you to explore the Gold Coast further.
• The Gold Coast has a warm, balmy climate with over 300 sunny days per year. Together with the cooler subtropical rainforest ranges in the hinterland, with their wealth of scenic treasures, the Gold Coast is extremely popular with tourists and residents seeking a relaxed lifestyle in great surroundings. Boasting more than 40 patrolled beaches in summer and several waterways, the Gold Coast offers a variety of water sports. Surfing, windsurfing, boogie boarding, swimming, sailing, scuba diving, jet skiing, fishing and canoeing contribute to its appeal. The quiet and peaceful hinterland offers opportunities for bushwalking, camping, freshwater-dam fishing and scenic drives.

Overnight: Gold Coast

Activities:

• After Breakfast, check-out of your hotel rooms this morning, and transfer by private vehicle to the Brisbane airport for your flight to Cairns.
• Upon arrival to Cairns, you are met by a local representative (for group passengers only), and assisted with a private transfer to your accommodation.
• Enjoy some time at leisure to begin exploring Cairns. This modern, colourful city is the capital of the tropical north. The cosmopolitan Esplanade traces the bay foreshore and blends the city life of cafes and shopping with the natural attractions of the Coral Sea. With Cairns’ superb location – the Great Barrier Reef to the east, mountain rainforests of the Wet Tropics and plains of the Atherton Tableland to the west, and palm-fringed beaches to the north and south – it is a good base for many activities.

Overnight: Cairns – (B)

Activities:

• Please ensure you bring with you swimmers, a towel, sun protection, a hat and sunscreen, and cash or credit card for any onboard purchases and optional activities. Take a short walk this morning board your cruise vessel, and depart to the Great Barrier Reef.
• Departing Cairns, your destination is Marine World – a purpose-built two storey platform 45 metres x 12 metres featuring Spacious Lower Deck with Ample Undercover Seating, Upper Sundeck with Sun Lounges, Underwater Observatory, Children’s Safety Swimming Enclosure, easy access to the water for snorkellers, Moon Pool for ease of access for divers and Fresh Water Showers.
• Travelling time (to and from) Marine World is approximately one and a half hours each way. We offer our guests 5 full hours at Marine World to experience unlimited snorkelling – all your snorkelling equipment and instruction is provided, Interactive Coral Viewing Vessel Tours and all the facilities of Marine World.
• The Great Barrier Reef supports 1,500 species of fish, 400 types of coral and over 30 types of whales and dolphins. It is the only living structure visible from the moon, is a national treasure and one of the true wonders of the world. Here there will be time to relax and enjoy yourself in one of nature’s most spectacular playgrounds.
• Lunch today is a hot and cold tropical buffet.
• Return to Cairns and you are at leisure.

Overnight: Cairns – (B, L)

Activities:

• Down Under Tours will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to the Railway Station to board the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail. An amazing journey awaits you as you travel one of the world’s most scenic rail routes through hand hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges.
• A stop is made at Barron Gorge to view the Falls before arriving at beautiful Kuranda Station. Spend some time exploring this quaint Village before a short journey brings you to Rainforestation set in 40 hectares of gardens and rainforest.
• A number of unique activities await you. Board the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a different look at the Rainforest. An experienced guide will show you unique tropical fruits, ancient rainforest plants and point out a number of our native animals as you meander through the Rainforest. Join the Dreamtime Walk for an insight into ancient Aboriginal and Islander history. Their way of life is explained and you can even try your hand at boomerang throwing. The Pamagirri Dancers perform a range of native dances in the Rainforest Amphitheatre that reflects the humour and excitement of their culture.
• A delicious barbeque lunch is included before visiting the Koala and Wildlife Park. Cuddle a koala (own expense), smile at a crocodile and hand feed the kangaroos and wallabies. A range of other native animals and reptiles are also on display.
• Time to return to Kuranda and board Skyrail, an experience which takes you over the Rainforest canopy with stops along the way allowing you to take a stroll or visit the CSIRO Interpretive Centre before arriving at Caravonica Lakes.
• Our coach will be waiting to return you to your accommodation after a wonderful day in the rainforest.

Overnight: Cairns – (B, L)

Activities:

• Today is at leisure to relax and enjoy Cairns and the surrounds. Trinity Wharf offers shopping and eating venues, a tourist coach terminus and a place for international cruise liners to berth. Pier Marketplace is also on the waterfront. It is a retail and leisure complex with more than 90 outlets, including Ben Cropp’s Shipwreck Museum and the Undersea World Oceanarium, home to over 1200 marine animals. All outlets are open 7 days a week.
• On weekends, local artists and craftspeople display their wares at the Mud Market, located in the main amphitheatre. Also popular with locals and visitors alike is Rusty’s Markets. Cairns Museum, located on the corner of Lake and Shields streets, has displays featuring the Aboriginal, timber, goldrush and sugarcane history of the area.
• Flecker Botanic Gardens, in Collins Ave, feature native plants and their traditional use by Aboriginal people. The gardens also have a very large collection of palm species.
• Cairns is famous for its tropical fruits, fresh seafood and relaxed ambience. It is an international mecca for marlin and other big game fishermen.

Overnight: Cairns – (B)

Activities:

• After breakfast transfer to the airport for your flight to Christchurch (own expense – please book a flight departing approx 9:30am).
• On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
• This afternoon explore the city at leisure on the Christchurch Historic Tramcar.