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Spirit of Freedom 7N Mon Ayq *ORIG* [DiveSOF15]

17 Days / 15 Nights - Cairns, Live-Aboard Diving Expedition, The Outback and Sydney
Cairns, Live-Aboard Diving Expedition, Ayers Rock, Sydney

This itinerary departs from the USA on Friday evening. Next stay in Cairns for one night before you board the diving vessel the next morning (Monday). After disembarking from the dive vessel stay in Cairns for two more nights and then to Ayers Rock for two nights. Travel to Sydney and stay for three nights. Your arrival day back into the USA will be on Monday morning.

The dive vessel departs Cairns 08.00am Monday morning and returns 07:00 am the following Monday. You will be transferred to and from your accommodation.

Travel Package Features

• Accommodation - Cairns (1 Night), Live-Aboard Diving Vessel (7 Nights), Cairns (2 Nights), Ayers Rock (2 Nights), Sydney (3 Nights)
• Shuttle Transfers - Cairns Airport to Accommodation (return), Ayers Rock Airport to Accommodation (return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (return)
• Live-Aboard Diving Expedition includes: Transfers to/ from Cairns city accommodation, Low level reef flight Lizard Island to Cairns Opportunity for 24 to 27 dives, En-suite cabin with daily service, Chef prepared meals, Australian wines & soft drinks with evening meal
• Day Tour - Ayers Rock: Uluru Tour Pass; Sydney: Opera House Tour
• International Flight - Los Angeles to Cairns, Sydney to Los Angeles
• Australian Domestic Flight - Cairns to Ayers Rock, Ayers Rock to Sydney
• All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
• All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
• F.I.T (Free and Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an organised Group Tour)
• Electronic Travel Authorization (VISA) is an additional US$15 per person
• Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

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

Sun (Day 2) - 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.

Sun - Mon (Days 2 to 3) - 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).

Mon - Mon (Days 3 to 10) - 7 Nights Liveaboard Diving Expedition Great Barrier Reef

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.

Departing: Cairns 12:00 noon Monday
Returning: Cairns 07:00 am Monday

Trip Includes :
Transfers to/from Cairns city accommodation
Opportunity for up to 27 dives
En-suite cabin with daily service
Chef prepared meals
Australian wines & soft drinks with evening meals
Time ashore at Lizard Island

Special note: The 7 day itinerary, Monday departure does not return to Cairns for the full 7 days. Flights are not included, and therefore there are no limitations on weight.


Payable on Board: Fuel & Marine Park Levies

Sample Itinerary

Day 1: Board Spirit of Freedom at 11:15am at Trinity Wharf (complimentary transfers from Cairns city hotels are available) for a 12 noon departure. Lunch will be served on board while we cruise to the Great Barrier Reef for an afternoon orientation dive and a twilight or night dive.

Day 2: Today we may dive the amazing Steve’s Bommie, Clam gardens, Flare Point and the beautiful Gorgonia Wall and other sites on middle Ribbon Reefs.

Day 3: This morning we will dive theCod Hole. This is a popular dive site famous for it’s resident family of large Potato Cod, (Groper). We may also dive Dynamite Pass, Lighthouse Bommie, Challenger Bay, and Pixie Wall. This evening we overnight at Watson’s Bay on Lizard Island.

Day 4: This morning some of our guests will depart at Lizard Island and some new guests will join us. There will be time for a morning walk on the island. This afternoon we will have the opportunity for two dives at a choice of sites such as the Cod Hole, Pixie Pinnacle and Challenger Bay before departing in the evening for the Coral Sea.

Days 5&6: Osprey Reef. Australia’s Coral Sea reefs are renown for crystal clear water with average visibility in excess of 100 feet. Two days can be spent diving at Osprey Reef, including North Horn, well known for its shark action. You can expect to see grey whalers, silvertips, reef sharks, occasional hammerheads, schooling barracuda, trevally, and other pelagics. The landscape is amazing with sheer walls laced with gorgonians, sea whips, and bright yellow soft corals, rising from thousands of feet below.

Day 7:
Option 1: Still in the Coral Sea, weather depending we will dive Bougainville Reef.
Option 2: Today we return to the Ribbon Reefs # 3 to 5 to dive sites such as the sensational Steve’s Bommie, Temple of Doom, and Flare Point. On Sunday evening we will cruise overnight back to Cairns

Arrive Cairns approximately 06:30am. Breakfast will be served on board and hotel transfer will be arranged for approx 07:30am.

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.

Mon - Wed (Days 10 to 12) - 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)

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Cape Tribulation & Daintree Rainforest

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

Optional Day Tour (not included) - White Water Rafting

Discover a fun and exciting way to discover the pristine rainforest, with a half day of rafting on the Barron River!

Located just 20 minutes outside of Cairns, the half day raft is perfectly suited for the first time adventurer! No previous experience is necessary to raft these exhilarating grade 1 to 3 rapids through the majestic scenery of Barron Gorge National Park. You don't even need to know how to swim as you will be fitted with a helmet and lifejacket and have your experienced river guide at your side. Here you can feel the rush of rafting within the awesome wilderness of Australia's tropical rainforests with operations all year round, tropical water temperatures and breath-taking scenery and rapids. So take a ride through our planet's oldest continuously growing tropical rainforests on rivers that still run totally wild. Take home the memories and be sure to smile as professional photographers take your pictures which are available for purchase at the end of the day! Last stop is at the cafe where you can take a break and have some drinks before returning to your accommodation.

Includes: Transfers to/from Cairns accommodations, 2 hours of rafting, equipment: life jacket, helmet, spray jacket and experienced river guide, light refreshments

Operation Days: Daily
Age Restrictions: 13 years or older
Estimated Times: Departs: 2:15pm Return: 5:00pm
Payable on Board: AUD$25.00 Environmental Levy

Upgrade Available (extra cost):
Full Day Tully River (Grades 3-4)

Wed (Day 12) - 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.

Wed (Day 12) - Australian Domestic Flight - Cairns to Ayers Rock

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Ayers Rock (Uluru).

Wed - Fri (Days 12 to 14) - 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.

Wed-Thu (Days 12 to 13) - Day Tour - 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

Fri (Day 14) - Australian Domestic Flight from Ayers Rock to Sydney

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

Fri (Day 14) - Shuttle Transfer from Sydney Airport to Accommodation

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

Fri - Mon (Days 14 to 17) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 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

Sat (Day 15) - Day Tour - Opera House Tour

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.

Insiders Tip: Opal Shopping

View the world famous black opal, the 'Aurora Australis', valued at 1 Million Dollars; with the opportunity to bring home the colors of Australia with a beautiful piece of opal jewelry.

Australia is known as the country of origin for this splendid stone with 95% of the world's precious gem opal found in exclusively in Australia. Australian opal displays all the colors of the rainbow and holds a spectrum of colors found in nature, fire, the ocean and more. It is these contrasts that make opals a truly fascinating and unique gemstone with no two opals appearing exactly the same. In the Middle Ages the Romans considered opal a stone that could provide great luck, as it was believed to possess all the virtues of Emeralds, Sapphires and Ruby’s.

Share this unique experience and be educated about Australian Opal at Altmann & Cherny. Established in 1948 with hopes of sharing this unique gemstone with the world, they have built a reputation of excellence with 3 generations actively involved the families are considered leading opal experts. Please visit them at:

18 Pitt Street
Sydney, NSW
Telephone: 61 2 9251 9477

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Blue Mountains

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) - Bridge Climb

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.

Mon (Day 17) - Shuttle Transfer from Accommodation to Sydney Airport

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

Mon (Day 17) - 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