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Ocean Quest Sydney [DiveDD1]

10 Days/8 Nights

Great Barrier Reef, Live-Aboard Diving Expedition & Sydney

Cairns, Live-Aboard Diving Expedition, Sydney

This itinerary departs from the USA on Friday evening. Stay in Cairns for one night before you board the Ocean Quest the next morning (Monday). After disembarking from the dive vessel stay in Cairns for two more nights then travel to Sydney for 2 nights. Your arrival day back into the USA will be on Friday morning.

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

Cairns the colourful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north is alive with life and charm. Experience the majesty of this underwater playground which is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and is known as the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Here, warm northern hospitality and enthusiasm are the order of the day. With many unique attractions and activities such as a cruise to the reef or islands, a 4WD safari to the outback, trek into the rainforest or see it from the rainforest cableway above its green canopy on your way to or from Kuranda. These year round natural attractions are truly memorable and inspiring.

Australia's oldest city, Sydney, is the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country's capital in everything but name. It's blessed with sun-drenched natural attractions, dizzy skyscrapers, delicious and daring restaurants, superb shopping and friendly folk. Bursting with character, Sydney is a vibrant city catering to all your desires whether you seek exhilaration and exploration or 100% relaxation.

Travel Package Features

• Accommodation - Cairns (1 Night), Live-Aboard Diving Vessel (3 Nights), Cairns (2 Night), Sydney (2 Nights)
• Shuttle Transfers - Cairns; Sydney: Airport to Accommodation (return)
• Live-Aboard Shuttle Transfers: Cairns: Accommodation to Liva-Aboard
• Live-Aboard Diving Expedition includes: Opportunity for 15 dives, En-suite cabin & meals.
• Day Tours - Sydney: Opera House (1 Hour)
• Optional Day Tours (Not Included) - Cairns: Cape Tribulation Safari; Sydney: Harbour Bridgeclimb, Blue Mountains and Australian Wildlife
• International Flight - Los Angeles to Brisbane, Sydney to Los Angeles
• Australian Domestic Flights - Brisbane to Cairns, Cairns to Sydney
• US Domestic Flights (Not Included) - Hometown to Los Angeles (Return)
• Visa Issuance - Provides entry into Australia (USD$15.00 per person)
• F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel) - i.e. Not an Organized Group Tour
• All Other Day Tours are Optional and Not Included (Is an additional cost)

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 (Fri) - International Flight from Los Angeles to Cairns

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 Cairns, 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) This flight has a connection in Sydney or Brisbane.

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 (Sun) - Shuttle Transfer from Cairns Airport to the 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 2-3 (Sun to 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).

Days 3-6 (Mon to Thur) - 3 Nights Live-Aboard Diving Expedition of the Great Barrier Reef

Deep Sea Divers Den's 4 Day/3 Night Great Barrier Reef Live-Aboard Diving Expedition on "Ocean Quest".

Day One - 4 dives*
8.00am pick up from your city accommodation
9.00am Board our fast modern transfer boat for 90 minute transfer to Outer Barrier Reef
Equipment selection
2 dives and lunch before transferring to OceanQuest
2.30pm transfer to OceanQuest
Afternoon dive and night dive
Lunch, dinner and accommodation included.

Day Two - 4 dives*
Three day dives, One night dive
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and accommodation included.

Day Three - 4 dives*
Three day dives, One night dive
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and accommodation included.

Day Four - 3 dives*
Three pleasure dives
Breakfast, and lunch are included
3.00pm Depart Outer Barrier Reef
Return to your accommodation approx. 5pm
7.30pm - Party Time! Join the boat crew & passengers at a local restaurant.

You can also do the PADI Advanced dive course during this trip.

*indicates maximum number of dives available.

Days 6-8 (Thur to Sat) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Cairns

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


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)

Insiders Tip: Visit The Esplanade

Experience the leisure atmosphere at the playground for locals and tourists alike at The Esplanade!

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 our 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:
Closed: Wednesdays til 12pm for maintenance
October to March - 6:00am - 10:00pm
April to September - 7:00am - 9:00pm

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Cape Tribulation Safari

Travel along a scenic coastal drive to Port Douglas to experience the wildlife, rainforest, rivers and beaches of the region.

At the entrance of Port Douglas explore the Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary stop and have morning tea along with a guided tour through the three wildlife environments (rainforest, wetlands and grasslands) where you can experience a cacophony of wildlife. Take a guided rainforest walk where you'll have a stop at the picturesque Mossman Gorge then cross the Daintree River by cable driven ferry into the magnificent wilderness region that embraces the diverse coastal scenery and the oldest rainforest on earth, Daintree National Park. Relax at Cape Tribulation Resort & Spa where you'll enjoy a tropical buffet lunch. Then stroll along the beach or boardwalks of the World Heritage listed Cape Tribulation Beach that holds magnificent views where the oldest rainforest in the world meets the Great Barrier Reef. View the breathtaking scenery of the Daintree River and Coral Sea at the Alexandra Lookout. Keep a look out for the abundant crocodiles on a guided River Cruise through the mangroves of the Daintree River. Have a refreshing cup of afternoon tea before heading back to Cairns.

Includes: Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary, Daintree Cruise, Cape Tribulation, Buffet Lunch, Guided Walks, morning and afternoon tea
Estimated Times: Departure: 7:30am Return: 6:30pm
Operation Days: Daily

Day 8 (Sat) - Shuttle Transfer from the Accommodation to Cairns 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 (Sat) - Australian Domestic Flight from Cairns to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Sydney.

Day 8 (Sat) - Shuttle Transfer from Sydney Airport to the Accommodation

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

Days 8-10 (Sat to Mon) - 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 8 (Sat) - Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hour)

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.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb Adventure (3 Hours)

This evening experience an adventure of a lifetime by climbing the famous Coathanger - Sydney Harbour Bridge.

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.

Climb time is around Twilight.

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

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.

Day 10 (Mon) - Shuttle Transfer from the Accommodation to Sydney Airport

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

(Day 10 Mon) - International Flight from Sydney to Los Angeles

Depart Sydney from the International Airport and fly to Los Angeles. 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 Adventure. 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