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Heron Island and Australian Touring [Dive09]

12 Days/10 Nights Heron Island and Australian Touring to Include Sydney, Outback Australia and Australia Zoo
Sydney, Ayers Rock/Uluru, Brisbane, Heron Island


This package affords a fantastic opportunity to scuba dive one of the most sought after dive opportunities in the world as well as experience more of Australia. Begin your trip to the iconic city of Sydney. You will see the awe inspiring Ayers Rock / Uluru as well as the famous Australia Zoo.

You will travel to Australia to Dive one of the Seven Wonders of the World, The Great Barrier Reef. This trip is perfect for the serious diver offering a generous combination of day & night dives across a wide range of different dive sites. Dive either right off of the shore or by short boat ride to specific dive sites.

Island facilities will also offer a splendid vacation to the accompanying non diver with sensational snorkeling, relaxation and Marine Park educational activities - bring a book and soak up the Australian sunshine.

Travel Package Features

• Accommodation - Sydney (2 nights), Ayers Rock (2 Nights), Brisbane (2 nights), Heron Island (4 nights, Breakfast, included)
• Diving Activities - 5 Standard Dives or 4 Standard Dives & 1 Night Dive (incl air, scuba, weights & boat trip)
• Non Diving Activities - Guided reef walks (operate daily subject to tides), Island ecology walks, Guided birdlife walks, Beach picnic hampers, Snorkeling lessons in swimming pool, Wildlife presentations, Nightly movie and marine documentary, plus beautiful beaches and relaxing lounge chairs by the pool.
• Optional Activities (Not Included) - Snorkeling excursions to the reef edge, Semi-submersible coral viewing cruises - commentary by reef interpreter, fishing charters, Therapeutic massage
• Day Tours - Sydney: Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hr), Sydney Harbour Cruise (1 hr); Ayers Rock/Uluru: Uluru Tour Pass; Brisbane: Steve Irwin's Crocodile Zoo
• Shuttle Transfers - Sydney Airport to Accommodation (return), Ayers Rock Airport to Accommodation (return), Brisbane Airport to Accommodation (return),
• Ferry Transfers - Gladstone to Heron Island
• Helicopter Transfer - Heron Island to Gladstone Airport
• International Flights - Los Angeles to Sydney, Brisbane to Los Angeles
• Australian Domestic Air sectors: Sydney to Ayers Rock, Ayers Rock to Brisbane, Brisbane to Gladstone (return),
• Other Day Tours are Optional
• Electronic Travel Authority (VISA's) are additional $15 per person
• All Taxes & Fuel Levies (except where noted)

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

(Day 1) - 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)

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.

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.

(Days 2-4) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Embrace Sydney's best location with this four star vacation accommodation ideally nestled in the heart of the city. Overlooking Wynyard Park you will enjoy this icon of time-honored tradition, warm hospitality and friendly personal service. Just a short stroll away from many famous attractions including the Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, The Royal Botanical Gardens and more. You will love the luxury of the close accessibility to public transportation including light rail access, train station, the bus system and nearby Circular Quay which will allow you to see much more of Sydney and surrounds. Featuring: 446 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, 2 restaurants, 4 bars, indoor heated pool, sauna, spa, and gymnasium. Amenities: air conditioning, daily maid service, fridge, iron & board, radio channels, shower, coffee & tea, ensuite bathroom, hair dryer, shaving adaptor, sprinklers, smoke detectors, television, telephone, internet access (broadband), data port, wake up calls, mini bar, and 24 hour room service. With all this and more take time out to experience the wonders of Sydney while enjoying all your accommodation has to offer.

Upgrade Available (Upon Request): Stunning 5 Star Property

(Day 2) - Day Tour - Sydney Harbour Cruise and Tour (1 Hr)

On your vacation explore Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia.

The Sydney Harbour Cruise travels around famous Darling Harbour. No Australia vacation would be complete without seeing the Harbour, its Bridge or the Sydney Harbour Opera House. What better way than from the Harbour itself.

(Day 2) - Day Tour - Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hr)

On your vacation participate in an inspiring tour of the opera house in Sydney, Australia.

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 Theatre 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.

Upgrade to Opera House Tour & Tasting Plate Available

(Day 3) - Free Day to Explore Sydney

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

The Monorail connection to the City Center provides quick transit, or walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or to the lovely tree-lined beach suburb of Manly. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Blue Mountains and Australia Wildlife Tour - Full Day

On your vacation, discover the spectacular Blue Mountains and see native wildlife Explore World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, located outside of Sydney, Australia.

This rugged and beautiful region forms part of the Great Dividing Range, linking tropical north to temperate south, while dividing coastal cities from the vast Outback. Pass by Homebush Bay, site of the 2000 Olympics. Discover Leura village, a delightful blend of groomed gardens and quaint shops, enjoy free time to wander the streets of Leura. Next we stop at Echo Point and see the famous Three Sisters rock formation. Travel through Katoomba, heart of the resort region within the Blue Mountains National Park and discover the remarkable beauty of Blue Mountains National Park, enjoy an easy walk or Visit Echo Point Lookout, see the Three Sisters and hear the ancient Aboriginal legends of this impressive rock formation, hear traditional Aboriginal Dreamtime tales interpreting the creation of local landmarks. Enjoy 2 course hot lunch with tea, coffee or soft drink. Join the optional Blue Mountain rides - Scenic Railway, Cableway or Skyway (own expense). These are great ways to see the steep valleys, canyons and Three Sisters rock formation. Enjoy a short stop at Cahills Lookout for impressive mountain scenery. Next we enjoy an afternoon encounter at Koala Park and have your photo taken with a cuddly koala, see kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and cute little fairy penguins. Full Day Tour.

Depart approximately 8:15 AM, return at approximately 5:45 PM.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb - ½ Day

On your vacation climb the famous Harbour Bridge in Sydney.

Achieve exhilaration and personal satisfaction as you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For approximately two hours you, along with 11 other eager climbers and a climb guide, weave through catwalks, climb up ladders and then arrive at the most spectacular point of all - the upper arch climb. The steady incline to the upper arch leaves you free to focus your attention on your Sydney experience, with opportunities for 360 degree views of Sydney, including east to the ocean, west to the mountains and the harbour city surrounds. It is at this point that you not only have a bird's eye view of the beautiful Sydney Harbour and the city, but have the exhilaration of the truly rewarding experience of reaching the top to the Harbour Bridge in Sydney, Australia. When you reach the top you will have a sense of achievement that you'll remember forever - you've conquered an Australian icon recognised the world over! No other Sydney tourist attraction can give you this feeling of standing at the top of the world, with the Harbour spread before you. All climbers will be issued a complimentary photograph of their climb group.

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

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

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

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to Ayers Rock, the Red Centre of the country.

(Days 4 -6) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Ayers Rock

Travel to your accommodation in the heart of Australia, the Red Centre, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4 1/2 Star vacation accommodation is centrally located to all resorts and Australia touring facilities and offers a range of stylish accommodations, from shaded poolside rooms to the magnificent deluxe rooms overlooking the desert. You can relax from your travel in the comfort of your own private balcony or courtyard, or unwind in the hotel's refreshing pool, sipping cocktails. It's only a short stroll to the resorts numerous lookouts, where you can view what is arguably Australia's best sunset. Its spectacular display of colours across the face of Uluru and the surrounding desert turns your vacation into a memorable event.

Airport shuttle transfers included.

(Days 4 -6) - Day Tours - Uluru Tour Pass

On your vacation explore the fascinating surroundings of Australia's Red Centre.

This afternoon visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre and Maruku Arts and Craft Cooperative, dedicated to interpreting Anangu culture and law, as well as helping visitors learn about the cultural value of the region. Travel to the waterhole of Mutitjulu for a guided walk, viewing ancient cave paintings and learning about the Aboriginal legends of Kuniya Tjukurpa (Python Dreaming). Join the guided Mala Walk to learn the story of the Mala (Hare Wallaby) people who once lived at Uluru. See painted caves and learn of the region's geology and flora. As you tour the base of Uluru, visit Kantju Gorge, a waterhole and old hunting ground. Late in the day, watch the sunset over Uluru, admire the ever-changing colours of the monolith while the sun sinks below the horizon. Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine and canapes as the dusk deepens into night. Return to the Resort approximately 30 minutes after sunset.

The next morning, rise early and enter Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Enjoy a complimentary cup of tea or coffee as you witness Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunrise and see the desert come to life. With the sun still climbing the morning sky, travel to Kata Tjuta (Olgas); a stop is made to view the immense scale of this formation which dominates the western skyline of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This remarkable formation of 36 domes is thought to have once been a single rock many times the size of Uluru (Ayers Rock). On arrival at Kata Tjuta, join a guided walk into Walpa (Olga) Gorge. Marvel at the sheer walls that flank you as you enter the gorge. Learn of the domes' formation and of the wildlife of the region. Some of the plants you will see here are so rare that they are only found among these rocky domes. Return to your resort late morning with the rest of the day free.

Note: The tour may be closed without notice due to weather or cultural reasons.

Includes: Transfers to and from accommodation, National Park Entry Fee

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Sounds of Silence Dinner

Dine under a million stars at the award winning Sounds of Silence restaurant

Travel out to a secluded dining setting in the middle of the desert. Sip on a glass of champagne with the sound of a lone didgeridoo filling the air as the sun slowly sets over the Olgas (Kata Tjuta) and Ayers Rock (Uluru).
Dine on a gourmet BBQ of Australian delicacies such as kangaroo, barramundi and buffalo, then sit back and take in the mystery of the desert at night as an astronomer takes you on a tour of the clear Southern night skies.

Minimum Age is 10 yrs

(Day 6) - Australian Domestic Flight, Ayers Rock to Brisbane (connection flight)

Travel within Australia by domestic air from the Red Centre at Ayers Rock to Brisbane.

(Day 6 cont) - Shuttle Transfer, Brisbane Airport to Accommodation

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

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address.

(Days 6-8) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Brisbane

Travel to your accommodation in Brisbane, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 3 Star vacation accommodation is conveniently located in Brisbane's city centre. It is within walking distance to the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct, Treasury Casino, South Bank Parklands, Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Recently, the hotel went through a major refurbishment. Its rooms are equipped with free coffee/tea making facility, fridge, air conditioning, and hair dryer.

(Day 7) - Day Tour - Steve Irwin's Crocodile Zoo

Travel along the Glasshouse Mountains scenic route 2 hours North of Brisbane to the Wildlife Park of the famous Crocodile Hunter (Steve Irwin) at the Australia Zoo.

You will be taken directly to and from the Wildlife Park and have nearly 6 hours to experience the best of the zoo. Take in the many daily shows and demonstrations where you can see exciting snakes, birds and crocodiles in action! The "Call of the Wild" experience leads you to Steve's home and over 550 animals that you would only expect to see in the wilds of Australia. Experience a truly remarkable day as you watch a demonstration featuring wild crocodiles. Meet Amelia, the Wedged-Tailed Eagle and other birds of prey. Watch the small clawed otters frolic and Harriet, the world's oldest giant Galapagos land tortoise, as they feed. Encounter cuddly Koalas close up and join in the feeding of the kangaroos and wallabies. This is a day to experience the pleasures of the wild and watch very experienced professional handlers get close to extremely dangerous creatures. Don't miss the opportunity to take a photo with a snake at the Croc Hunter Museum or see the wild caught croc demo. Keep your eyes out for handlers walking through the park with the animals so you can get "up close and personal". With many more shows including foxes, camels, otters, koalas and birds you're sure to have a wild time!

Operation Days: Daily (closed Christmas Day: 25 Dec)
Includes: Entry to Australia Zoo
Estimated Times: Departure: 8:45am Return: 5:30pm

Upgrades Available: Hire a Caddie Tour, Safari Guided Tour & Private Guided Tour
Self Drive Upgrades: Platinum Zoo Adventure
Important Note: Does not operate on Christmas Day

(Day 8) - Shuttle Transfer, Brisbane Accommodation to Airport

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

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address.

(Day 8 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight, Brisbane to Gladstone

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Gladstone.

(Days 8-12) - 4 Nights Accommodation Great Barrier Reef Island

Travel to your accommodation on a Great Barrier Reef Island, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.

This luxury vacation resort is set amongst a dazzling parade of aquamarine waters, shimmering white sand beaches and colour-splashed reef teeming with life. It's what you don't see around the island that makes the resort so special. You won't see any buildings above the tree line. And you won't bump into any day trippers either. The reef vacation experience is exclusively for guests, a unique experience few other resorts in the world can offer. There's a relaxed island lifestyle that sets the island apart, a sophisticated yet casual resort atmosphere. Here the emphasis is on exploring and discovering the natural attractions that have made this island famous around the world. The vacation resort rooms are equipped with either balcony or terrace, as well as tea and coffee making facilities, refrigerators, hairdryers, and many more. In order to help guests leave the outside world behind, televisions and telephones, while available on the island, are not found in guest rooms.

Breakfast, 2 course or buffet lunch and 3 course or buffet dinner. Upgrades available (pricing upon request).

Diving the Great Barrier Reef

On your vacation explore Australia's natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef, by participating in this unique diving adventure.

The Great Barrier Reef Island dive package include 5 standard day dives, scuba tanks, weights, belts and the boat trip. PLUS BCD, reg, wetsuit, mask, fins, boots and hood. Night dives are available also and conducted on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays - weather permitting. Divers must have completed minimum of 20 dives, or logged a previous night dive, or take part in the night dive as part of an advanced course. This highlight of your Australia vacation will leave you speechless.

(Day 12) - Helicopter Transfer from Heron Island to Gladstone Airport

Take an exhilarating and unforgettable helicopter flight and marvel at Australia's Great Barrier Reef as you travel to your island vacation resort.

Helicopter transfers will give you the unique opportunity to see the Great Barrier Reef from the air. Baggage allowances for helicopter transfers are limited to one suitcase and one small carry-on item of hand luggage. A limit of 15kg (estimated 33lbs.) per person applies. Excess luggage storage is available at the airport free of charge.

(Day 12 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight, Gladstone to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Gladstone to Brisbane.

(Day 12 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.

Your flight home will give you the opportunity to reflect on your Australian vacation. Please tell your friends if you have enjoyed the experience and direct them to "ABOUT AUSTRALIA " for information via our website at www.aboutaustralia.com