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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 (via Auckland)
• Australian Domestic Flights - Brisbane to Cairns, Cairns to Sydney
• US Domestic Flights are not included.
• Shuttle Transfers - Cairns Airport to Accommodation (return), Live-Aboard Dive Pick Up from Cairns Accommodation (return), Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (Return), Queenstown Accommodation to Mountain & Return (3 days)
• All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
• Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (US$15.00 per person)
• F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
• All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
• Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
• Other Common Inclusions for Dive Packages:
• Live-Aboard Diving Expedition includes: Transfers to/ from Cairns city accommodation, One way flight - Cairns to Lizard Island, Opportunity for 13 to 15 dives, En-suite cabin with daily service, Chef prepared meals, Australian wine & soft drinks with evening meals.
• 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

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

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

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 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.

Please confirm with the airlines at Check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record.

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.

Not-included (payable on board): Fuel & Marine Park Levies

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.

Day 8 (Tue) - Shuttle Transfer, Airport to Accommodation in Queenstown

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

Days 8 to 13 (Tue - Sun) - 5 Nights Accommodation

Travel to your accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 5 nights.

It's all about location! Your 4 star accommodations sits in a tranquil lakefront setting only a minute's walk from the heart of Queenstown with shopping, restaurants, nightlife and activities all within easy reach. This fresh, modern hotel features rooms and facilities furnished with the finest comforts and conveniences. A place where you can relax with surperb uninterrupted views of the lake, mountains and adjoining gardens. Comfortable and serene you will surely enjoy your stay here!

Upgrades Available: Garden View Room, Lakeview Room

Day 9 to 11 (Wed - Fri) - Shuttle transfer, Hotel to Mountain (Return)

Take a shuttle from your Queenstown hotel to Coronet Peak or The Remarkables for the 3 days you are skiing or snowboarding.

Forget about fitting chains, driving on icy roads, navigating the corners of the mountain roads, or finding a car park. Let door to door transport service take you to the mountain faster and hassle free! Drivers have not only been driving the roads for years but are friendly, knowledgable, and as excited as you to be skiing and snowboarding. Mountain transfers are from Queenstown area hotels to Coronet Peak and The Remarkables, but you don't have to decide what you want to ski until the day before! Choose which mountain you want service for by 7pm the night before, and you'll have a guaranteed seat on that bus service.

Day 9 to 11 (Wed - Fri) - 3 Day Rental of ski or snowboard

Rent ski or snowboard equipment while you visit Queenstown.

Rent skis or snowboards from a centrally located and local shop in downtown Queenstown. Staff who are knowledgeable about skiing and riding will help you find the perfect gear to take to the slopes. Better yet, you can swap out your skis for a board (or vice versa) if you decide you want something a little different during your trip. To make sure you save your energy for the slopes, equipment can be delivered to most major hotels the evening before your first day to the ski resorts.

Upgrade to executive ski or snowboard equipment for an additional charge.

Day 9 to 11 (Wed - Fri) - 3 Day Rental of ski jacket and pants

Rent snow jacket and pants in Queenstown so you don't have to bring them from home.

Rent quality snow jackets and pants for your skiing trip in Queenstown. Gear is laundered after every rental and ranges from sizes XS to 5XL. Ski experts help ensure you find the best fit so you all you have to worry about is having a great time out on the slopes!

Please Note: For hygienic reasons, hats, gloves, goggles, etc., are not rentable. Please be sure to bring your own or you may choose to purchase hats, gloves, and more once you arrive in Queenstown.

Day 9 to 11 (Wed - Fri) - 3 Day Ski Pass

3 day flexible life pass to ski Coronet Peak and the Remarkables.

Ski or snowboard for 3 days while you visit Queenstown! Visit the South Island's most popular mountain resort at Coronet Peak which has high speed chair lifts, extensive trails, several eateries, outdoor heated deck, restaurants, and coffee and bar facitilies. You can also go to The Remarkables which is known for its true alpine environment and includes everything from beginners slopes to big mountain possibilities, as well as a tubing park.

Lift passes provide full access to all operating chairlifts and surface lifts at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables for the days specified between the hours of 9am and 4pm, weather and conditions permitting. The passes are flexible and allow a one day grace period so you can ski 3 out of 4 days (just in case you need a break one day). The lift pass is also good for use at Mt. Hutt in Canterbury, New Zealand if used within the 4-day period.

(Day 12) - Free Day to Explore Queenstown

Spend a day to relax or explore dynamic Queenstown.

This region is renowned for its incedible adventure activities and spectacular outdoor terrain. You could try skiing, snowboarding, bungy jumping, paragliding, jetboating, sky diving and more! Or, if you want something a little more relaxed, you can choose from numerous family activities, nature experiences, tours and beauty spas. One hundred and forty years after our establishment as a gold mining camp, central Queenstown has transformed into a sophisticated cosmopolitan town, tucked into a picturesque bay on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, beneath majestic mountains. There's a permanent buzz in downtown Queenstown, where you'll find a fantastic choice of restaurants, a lively bar scene and excellent shopping.

Photo Credit: Tourism New Zealand

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) - Shuttle Transfer, Hotel to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Queenstown, New Zealand, to the Airport.

Please note: For airport transfers - 2 suitcases per person, extra pieces may be charged at $5.00 per piece. Surfboards, Bicycles etc - $5.00 each.

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.

Note: Flights from Auckland to Los Angeles will require a stop-over in Australia (Sydney or Brisbane) from 6th May 2012 onwards.

Your flight home will give you the opportunity to reflect on your New Zealand 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