Toll Free:

1 888 359 2877

Hours:

M-F 9am-5pm CT

Email:

Send Inquiry

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)

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 2-4) - 2 Nights Accommodation in 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 2) - Day Tour - Sydney Harbour Cruise and Tour (1 Hr)

On your vacation explore Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia.

<iframe width="350" height="197" class="alignleft" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/Amtpkm4_zKY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Hop On and Hop Off at up to seven famous harbour attractions with this unlimited full day pass, or simply take the 1 1/2 hour round trip cruise and see all the main harbour sights with commentary.

The Harbour Express stops at the following tourist attractions:

Fort Denison: The historic island and cafe in the middle of Sydney Harbour.

Taronga Zoo: Discover Australia's amazing wildlife including koalas, platypus and kangaroos.
Shark Island: This island national park is the perfect destination for a BYO picnic lunch, complete with a small beach area for swimming.

Watson's Bay: Home of Doyle's famous seafood restaurant and only a short walk to beautiful harbour swimming beaches, HMAS Watson and headland parks.

Luna Park: Sydney's famous fun park with rides and games, or walk across the Harbour Bridge from Milsons Point station.

Darling Harbour: Aquarium & Wildlife World, Australian Maritime Museum, shops, restaurants and only a short stroll or Monorail to Sydney Tower, Star City Casino, Powerhouse Museum and China Town.

Circular Quay: The Rocks historic precinct, weekend markets, Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens and Harbour Bridge pylon. (Additional Fees apply for Park Entry to Fort Denison, Shark Island & Taronga Zoo).

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

On your vacation, participate in an inspiring tour of the Sydney Opera House.

<a href="//youtu.be/C2UPo8f7EpE" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Sydney-Opera-House-Tour-Australia.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

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.

<b>Operates</b>
Daily, Hourly 9am to 5pm
Does not operate Good Friday, Christmas, New Year's Eve or Valentine's Day

<b>Includes</b>
One hour guided experience.

<b>Need to Know</b>
- 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.

<b>Upgrades</b>
-Add a lunch, dinner or performance to your tour.
-Upgrade your experience with a private, backstage, or architectural tour.

(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.

Walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or take the 30 minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, Sydney's premier beach resort. Here you can enjoy the laid back beach culture as well as many festivals and events. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is approximately a 10 minute train ride and is one of Australia's most famous and iconic beaches. Save some time to take a beach walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach, it's known to be a true highlight. 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 Deluxe Day Tour - Full Day

The Blue Mountains Deluxe Day is a real journey into the heart of a unique World Heritage Region. From temperate rainforests to towering sandstone escarpments, you'll see and experience it all. Let the landscape work its wonders and become part of you for a lifetime.

<p></p>Upon departing from the city, you will travel directly to the Blue Mountains and your first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill Farm a working farm also home to Kangaroo, Emu, Wombat and Koala. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure.

From Calmsley Hill you will continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. Visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Where possible this will be away from the crowds of tours that visit the mountains each day with other operators, thus you will have the opportunity to enjoy a stress and hurry free environment taking in the views and information imparted by your guide.

Continuing on you will arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout points away from the crowds for views of the famous 3 Sisters. Whilst the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can't help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colors. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos.

Next you will be taken around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch venue the Boiler House Cafe. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views, you can enjoy a 2-course lunch with tea or coffee. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Please note that beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar.

The afternoon is spent visiting a selection of lookouts. Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you'll know why it's one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. If you're not mesmerized by the dancing waves of water spray, you'll be transfixed by the sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness.

Then take a brief stop to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice at the delightful Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens, where you can enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before traveling down the Bells Line of Road to arrive back at your hotel approximately 4:30pm.

<b>Operates</b>

Daily.

<b>Need to Know</b>

This is a specialized small group tour with a maximum group size of 17 passengers.
Minimum of 2 guests required for tour departure.

<b>Times</b>

Pick-up from Sydney CBD hotel between: 7:00am - 7:30am.
Drop-off at Sydney CBD hotel between: 4:30pm - 5:00pm.
 
<b>Inclusions</b>

- Professional Guide
- Hotel pickup & drop off from Sydney CBD
- Small group touring
- Morning tea
- National Park Fees
- 2-Course Lunch (Beverages with meals are not included)
- Glass of Sparkling Wine
- Mt Tomah visit

<b>Upgrades</b>

Private Touring

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

Reach new heights and climb the famous Harbour Bridge in Sydney!

<a href="//youtu.be/vNBOOE8Lydk" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><img class="alignleft" src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Sydney-Harbour-Bridgeclimb-Australia.jpg" width="350" height="197" /></a>

Achieve exhilaration and personal satisfaction as you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For approximately 3.5 hours you and 11 other eager climbers will join a climb guide and 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 harbor 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 exhilarating and rewarding experience of reaching the top of the iconic Harbour Bridge.

When you reach the top you will have a sense of achievement you'll remember forever - you've conquered an Australian icon recognized the world over! No other Sydney tourist attraction can give you this feeling of standing at the top of the world, with the harbor spread before you.

All climbers will be issued a complimentary photograph of your climb group.

<b>Operates:</b>
Daily, in all weather conditions (except in cases of extreme weather conditions like electrical storms or high winds).

<b>Need to Know:</b>
- Wear comfortable, enclosed rubber-soled shoes and comfortable clothing;
- Secure lockers will be provided to store your personal belongings;
- No cameras, phones, GoPros or other video and mobile devices are allowed on the climb;
- Children ages 8 - 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Children younger than 8 are not permitted on the climb;
- Maximum of 14 people per group.

<b>Times:</b>
The climb lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Climbs are available at dawn (limited departures), day, twilight or night.

<b>Inclusions:</b>
BridgeClimb cap;
Certificate of Achievement;
A complimentary Climb Group photo.

Photo Credit: BridgeClimb Sydney.

(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

Witness the stunning Uluru sunrise and sunset, venture out on the Walpa Gorge walk at Kata Tjuta and discover the fascinating stories of Uluru on a guided base tour.

<b>Sunset/Afternoon - Day One</b>

Talk a short walk at the base of Uluru with your Driver Guide and view ancient paintings and hear stories of traditional Anangu life.

Then head off to the Uluru sunset viewing area. On arrival you'll be served from a selection of Australian wines and nibbles.

You can just sit and relax or stroll around the area to find your own personal space to watch an amazing outback sunset.

<b>Sunrise/Morning - Day Two</b>
The early rise is well worth it as you experience the two major landmarks in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Start with an amazing sunrise at Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, the Uluru sunrise viewing area. Afterwards, on the 45 kms drive to Kata Tjuta your Driver Guide will provide you with an historical overview of the National Park.

The walk through the sheer walls of Walpa Gorge won’t disappoint as you’re led into a world of rare plant species and lush evergreen scrubs.

<b>Operates</b>
Daily
Morning tour pick-ups are 1.5 hours before sunrise and returns approximately 11:00 - 11:30am, lasting approximately 5 hours (seasonal). Afternoon tour pick-ups are 2:30pm - 3:00pm and returns half an hour after sunset, lasting approximately 5 hours (seasonal).

<b>Need to Know</b>
Full breakfast is not provided. Bringing snacks for breakfast is recommended. Please wear closed walking shoes and warm layers in cooler months. Bring your own water bottle, sunglasses, hat and sunscreen.

<b>Includes:</b>
Afternoon tour:
- Wine and canapes at sunset
Morning tour:
- Tea, coffee and cookies at sunrise and snacks.
- National Park Fee

<b>Upgrades</b>
Add a BBQ dinner with your Uluru sunset tour. Both tours can be done in one day if preferred.

Photo: Tourism NT

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

This dining experience offers the best of the Red Centre distilled into four magical hours under the sparkling outback sky.

You will begin with canapes and chilled sparkling wine upon a dune-top overlooking the Ulutu-Kata Tjuta National Park. As the sun sets and darkness falls, listen to the sound of a didgeridoo and join your table of fellow travelers for an unforgettable dining experience.

Your attentive staff will offer a selection of Australian wine and beer while the first course is served at your table. As the night sky twinkles to life, you will be welcomed to an interactive chef’s station where you will be served your choice from a freshly prepared, bush tucker inspired menu incorporating native bush ingredients.

Settle back and listen to the resident star-talker decode the southern night sky. Locate the Southern Cross, the signs of the zodiac, the Milky Way, as well as planets and galaxies that are visible due to the exceptional clarity of the atmosphere.

The tour finishes with a relaxing ride back to your accommodation.

<b>Operates</b>
Daily
Departs 1 hour prior to sunset, Returns 4.5 hours later (approx.)
Tour operates Christmas Day for an additional cost

<b>Includes</b>
- Return transfers to Ayers Rock accommodation
- Outback style canapes
- A three-course bush tucker inspired buffet
- Didgeridoo performance
- Guided tour of the night sky

<b>Need to Know</b>
- Children 9 and under are not permitted
- Very limited wheelchair accessibility. Assistance available on request
- Child strollers are not allowed
- Please wear long pants and toe-covered shoes
- Tour may be changed or cancelled due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances
- This experience can be catered to your dietary needs. Please advise of any special dietary requirements when completing your Traveler Information Form.

<b>Upgrades</b>
Field of Light Dinner

(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.

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

Travel along the Glasshouse Mountains scenic route to the famous Australia Zoo.

<a href="//youtu.be/HnxJByxGCKc" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Steve-Irwin-Australia-Zoo.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

Take a scenic trip to the Sunshine Coast and visit world-famous Australia Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin.

Australia Zoo is a must-see holiday highlight for Australians and international visitors.

With more than 1200 animals from around the globe, daily wildlife shows, and the busiest wildlife hospital in the world where you can see vets saving native Australian animals.

This is a zoo visit you will never forget!

<b>Operates</b>
Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
Departs 8:00am, Returns 5:30pm (approx.)
Does not operate on the Queen's Birthday, Labour Day, Easter, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and Anzac Day

<b>Includes</b>
- Return transfers from hotel
- Entry to Australia Zoo
- Glasshouse Mountains scenic drive
- Approximately six hours to explore Australia Zoo

<b>Need to Know</b>
Please wear weather appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes. Please bring a hat, water bottle, sunscreen, and an umbrella if it is raining.

(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.

<a href="//youtu.be/c6KWJfS2BK8" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Heron-Island-Great-Barrier-Reef-Australia.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

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 Included. Upgrade to Beachside Suite 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.

<iframe width="350" height="197" class="alignleft" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Zkqx3t0x8F4?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

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.

.