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Scuba Dive Australia / Ski New Zealand 1 [CD856]

13 Days / 11 Nights

Cairns, Live Aboard Dive Experience & Snow Ski Adventure

Australia’s northeastern town of tropical Cairns is the gateway for two of the world's greatest diving icons, the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea. 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.

Your 4 day /4 night dive adventure offers a tantalizing taste of both the Ribbon Reefs and the Coral Sea. Commencing with the scenic reef flight, you will be delivered to the boat at Lizard Island to start your diving at sites such as the Cod Hole, before overnight travel to the spectacular Osprey Reef in the Coral Sea.

Queenstown is known as the Adventure Capital of the World. A reputation earned through the actions of a number of locally residing thrill seekers who have developed several unbelievable, adrenalin stirring, sanity-reducing adventures in a wildly exciting environment. Your 6 Day / 5 Night Ski Package offers you access to some of the best skifields in New Zealand - Coronet Peak & The Remarkables.

Travel Package Features

• Accommodation - Cairns (1 Night), Live Aboard Dive Boat (4 Nights), Cairns (1 Night) & Queenstown (5 Nights)
• International Flights - Los Angeles to Brisbane, Sydney to Queenstown, Queenstown to Los Angeles
• Australian Domestic Flights - Brisbane to Cairns, Cairns to Sydney
• US Domestic Flights are not included.
• Live-Aboard Diving Expedition includes: Transfers to/ from Cairns city accommodation, Low level reef flight Lizard Island to Cairns, Opportunity for 14 to 16 dives, En-suite cabin with daily service, Chef prepared meals, Australian wines & soft drinks with evening meal
• Ski Adventure Includes: Transfers to & from Queenstown Airport to Accommodation, 5 Nights Accommodation with Breakfast, Equipment (Skis or Snowboard) & Clothing, Lift Passes and 3 Day Ski Shuttle Bus Pass
• Shuttle Transfers - Cairns Airport to Accommodation (return), Live Aboard Dive Pick Up from Cairns Accommodation (return)
• All other day tours are optional and not included. Please inquire if interested.
• Electronic Travel Authorization (VISA) is an additional US$15 per person.

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 (Mon) - International Flight from Los Angeles to Brisbane

After departing from Los Angeles, 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 Brisbane, 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 the USA)

The Qantas Boeing 747-400 is equipped with the latest entertainment features of any Airline. The overnight flight to Australia can be a good opportunity for sleeping or to watch the latest movies after your evening meal.

Day 2 (Wed) - Australian Domestic Flight from Brisbane to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Cairns.

Day 2 cont (Wed) - Shuttle Transfer from Cairns Airport to Accommodation

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

Luggage restrictions apply as per standard economy Australian domestic flights of 2 standard bags under 30kg (66 lbs) per passenger. Excess baggage is AUD$5.00 per bag payable on board. If traveling with excess baggage please advise the shuttle company upon reservation confirmation so appropriate trailer size is available.

Pickups are conducted with a maximum waiting time of 20 minutes after collection of baggage from flight. If you are unable to meet within this time frame you will be required to wait for the next available shuttle.

Days 2 to 3 (Wed) - 1 Night Accommodation in Cairns

Travel to your accommodation Cairns, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.


Your 4 star accommodation, combines fresh contemporary decor with relaxing North Queensland style. This bright and spacious 314 room hotel is perfect for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest or Kuranda and the Atherton Tablelands. Other nearby highlights include: Cairns Casino, Marlin Jetty, the Esplanade and the Night Markets. Unwind with a cocktail by the lagoon pool or kick back with live music in the Bar followed by a sumptuous buffet or a la carte meal in the restaurant.

All rooms and suites have individual balconies, individually controlled air conditioning, refrigerator with mini bar, colour television, in-house movies, telephone, iron and ironing board, along with tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include: a swimming pool with sandy beach, swim up bar, walk in bar, restaurant, 24 hour reception and porter, room service, valet laundry, dry cleaning, coin laundry, gymnasium, undercover parking, conference facilities, facsimile service, internet, tour desk, lobby shop, foreign exchange, babysitting (on request).

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Cairns Wildlife Dome

Discover the 'Zoo in the City' built atop the Cairns Reef Hotel Casino!

At Cairns Wildlife Dome located in the heart of the city, you can explore the sights, sounds and secrets of the rainforest wildlife in this spectacular enclosed glass dome wildlife exhibit. Immerse yourself in the replicated rainforest environment while different species of birds fly freely and pet the roaming wallabies in their enclosure. Enjoy the complimentary 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, the dome is within walking distance of your accommodation and your ticket is good for re-entry for up to 4 days.

Operation Days: Daily
Includes: Entry, Re-Entry with Ticket (Up to 4 days), Shows & Presentations

Upgrade (Additional Cost): Koala Photo

Days 3 to 7 (Thur to Mon) - 4 Nights Spirit of Freedom Liveaboard

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.

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Scenic Flight to Live-Aboard Dive Boat

Transfer from Cairns Accommodation to Cairns airport to catch your twin-engine light aircraft for your amazing scenic flight over the reef to Lizard Island. You will be greeted on arrival and transferred to the Sleek and Stylish dive vessel to depart for the reef. This afternoon you will have the opportunity for two dives before departing in the late evening for Osprey Reef, in the Coral Sea. The dives may be at sites such as the famous Cod Hole and turquoise waters of the Ribbon Reefs.

Day 2 & 3: Diving Osprey Reef

Australia's Coral Sea reefs are renowned for crystal clear water with an average visibility in excess of 100 feet. Two days can be spent diving at remote Osprey Reef, including North Horn for an unforgettable Shark Dive. You can expect to see grey whalers, silvertips, reef sharks, occasional hammerheads, schooling barracuda, trevally, and other pelagics are common. The landscape is amazing with sheer walls laced with gorgonians, sea whips, and bright yellow soft corals rising from thousands of feet below.

Day 4: Dive Bougainville Reef or in the Ribbon Reefs

Depending on the weather and sea conditions you will dive the spectacular Bougainville Reef or perhaps return to the Ribbon Reefs to dive the sensational Steve's Bommie, Temple of Doom, Flare Point, and other spectacular dive sites. After dinner on Sunday evening we will cruise overnight back to Cairns.

Day 5: Arrive into Cairns

Arrive Cairns early morning. A fabulous Breakfast will be served on board and transfers will be arranged. You will have the day free to explore Cairns.

Please note that above itinerary is a sample only and sites may vary or the sequence may change. Access to the Cod Hole and the Coral Sea is weather conditional and while every attempt will be made to keep to the advertised itinerary, the Coral Sea and specific sites on the Great Barrier Reef are not guaranteed. Cabin types available: Quad, Double/Twin, Ocean View Standard, Ocean View Deluxe & Stateroom.

Days 7 to 8 (Mon) - 1 Night Accommodation in Cairns

Travel to your accommodation Cairns, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 1 night.


Your 4 star accommodation, combines fresh contemporary decor with relaxing North Queensland style. This bright and spacious 314 room hotel is perfect for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest or Kuranda and the Atherton Tablelands. Other nearby highlights include: Cairns Casino, Marlin Jetty, the Esplanade and the Night Markets. Unwind with a cocktail by the lagoon pool or kick back with live music in the Bar followed by a sumptuous buffet or a la carte meal in the restaurant.

All rooms and suites have individual balconies, individually controlled air conditioning, refrigerator with mini bar, colour television, in-house movies, telephone, iron and ironing board, along with tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include: a swimming pool with sandy beach, swim up bar, walk in bar, restaurant, 24 hour reception and porter, room service, valet laundry, dry cleaning, coin laundry, gymnasium, undercover parking, conference facilities, facsimile service, internet, tour desk, lobby shop, foreign exchange, babysitting (on request).

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 learn some famous Aussie Bush Dances. Make the night a memorable one, so dance and sing along!

Includes: Transfers to/from accommodation, Aussie Barbeque Dinner (Vegetarian option available), Guided Night Tour, Billy Tea, Bush Dances
Operation Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday
Estimated Times: 7.00pm and 10.00pm

Day 8 (Tue) - Shuttle Transfer from Cairns Accommodation to Airport

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

Luggage restrictions apply as per standard economy Australian domestic flights of 2 standard bags under 30kg (66 lbs) per passenger. Excess baggage is AUD$5.00 per bag payable on board. If traveling with excess baggage please advise the shuttle company upon reservation confirmation so appropriate trailer size is available.

Day 8 cont (Tue) - Australian Domestic Flight from Cairns to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Sydney.

Day 8 cont (Tue) - International Flight from Sydney to Queenstown

After departing from Sydney, this short International Flight takes you overseas to Queenstown, New Zealand.

Days 8 to 13 (Tue to Sun) - Southern Alps Skiing Experience

Ski the slopes of the Southern Alps out of Queenstown, the adventure capital of the World.

You will arrive from Australia to Queenstown, New Zealand. After arriving to Queenstown airport, your shuttle will take you to your accommodation in town. Relax at your accommodation for the rest of the day or just stroll around this wonderful alpine village. You have 3 full days of skiing scheduled and one free day to take in other adrenaline activities Queenstown offers. Each ski morning you will be shuttled to the ski resort. On your first morning you will be sized for your equipment (skis or snowboard) and clothing to suit your time skiing or snowboarding. During your stay you will have 3 full days to visit two of Queenstown's major ski fields - Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.

Coronet Peak is one of the most popular ski resorts due to its varied terrain & superb facilities. From the slopes you can see south across Lake Wakatipu and see nearby Lake Hayes. Popular runs on Coronet Peak include Big Easy for beginners, M1, Greengates & Shirtfront for Intermediate and Exchange Drop and Back Bowls for Expert. Coronet Peak is often the site of international ski races and the training ground for many professional skiers. Also visit The Remarkables on the southeastern shore of Lake Wakatipu. The terrain is approximately 30% beginners, 40% intermediate & 30% advanced.

On your free day you can choose from one of the many adventure day tours offered or perhaps take a scenic cruise through Doubtful Sound.

Optional Day Tours (Not Included) to choose from include: Canyon Swing, Dart River Safari, Doubtful Sound cruise, bungy jumping, or Shotover Jet to name a few. You can also choose to purchase additional lift & ski shuttle passes and equipment rental should you choose to ski on your 4th day in Queenstown.

Included in your Ski Package:
5 Nights Accommodation at a 4 Star Accommodation
Breakfast each morning
3 Days All Mountain Lift Pass
3 Day Full Ski or Snowboard Hire
3 Day Clothing Hire
3 Ski Shuttle Bus Passes
Shuttle Transfer from Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (Return)

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Doubtful Sound

When you discover Doubtful Sound you will be struck by its silence, a silence broken only by birdsong, or maybe the rushing of a distant waterfall.

Your Doubtful Sound adventure begins as you cruise the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri. Then it’s over Wilmot Pass, stopping along the way to experience some of Fiordland’s densest rainforest and to view the colourful alpine moss gardens.

On reaching Deep Cove, you will board our spacious catamaran for a three hour cruise that takes in the most dramatic scenery of Doubtful Sound. Our skippers provide a detailed commentary and point out highlights. Keep a look out for wildlife as bottlenose dolphins frequently come alongside our vessel, fur seals bask on the rocks around the fiord and rare penguins can at times be observed.

Full Day Tour includes Queenstown and Te Anau coach connections

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Bungy Jumping

The Bungy that got the whole thing started in Queenstown; and then, set Queenstown up as the adventure-tourism capital of the world.

With the Nevis Highwire Bungy, getting there is half the fun! The experience kicks off with a rugged 35 minute back-blocks 4x4 drive before you get harnessed up and board a shuttle which ferries you to the the Bungy Pod.

For many, this would have to be the ultimate challenge. Make no mistake, the Nevis Highwire Bungy is not for the nervous - with a wild 134 metres (440 feet) drop, the river seems to rush towards you faster than you're rushing towards it! Once off the edge it's simply a matter of basking in the glory of what you have achieved, as well as coming to grips with the 8 ½ seconds of freefall! Tour is 4 hours in duration.

Day 13 (Sun) - New Zealand Domestic Flight from Queenstown to Auckland

Travel within New Zealand by domestic air from Queenstown to Auckland (North Island).

Day 13 cont (Sun) - International Flight from Auckland to Los Angeles

Today depart Auckland and fly to the USA. Enjoy an in-flight dinner and movie with arrival in the USA. Note: you will be traveling back across the International Date Line. Gain that day back you lost on the way over, you actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Auckland.