Spirit of Freedom Coral Sea Dive [DiveSOF15]

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Spirit of Freedom, Australia Sydney Harbour, Sydney, Australia 17 Days / 15 Nights
Cairns, Live-Aboard Dive 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). You will visit the Coral Sea and after disembarking from the dive vessel stay in Cairns for two more nights and then travel to Ayers Rock for two nights. Lastly you will travel to Sydney and stay for three nights. Your arrival day back into the USA will be on Monday morning.

Travel Package Features

  • Accommodation - Cairns (1 Night), Live-Aboard Dive Vessel (7 Nights), Cairns (2 Nights), Ayers Rock (2 Nights), Sydney (3 Nights)
  • International Flight - Los Angeles to Sydney, Sydney to Los Angeles
  • Australian Domestic Flight - Sydney to Cairns, Cairns to Ayers Rock, Ayers Rock to Sydney
  • Shuttle Transfers - Cairns Airport to Accommodation (Return), Ayers Rock Airport to Accommodation (Return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return)
  • Live-Aboard Dive Expedition includes: Transfers to/ from Cairns city accommodation. Opportunity for 24 to 26 dives, En-suite cabin with daily service, Chef prepared meals, Australian wines & soft drinks with evening meal. Visit the Cod Hole, Ribbon Reefs & Coral Sea. The dive vessel departs Cairns 12:00 noon Monday and returns 07:30 am the following Monday.
  • Day Tour - Ayers Rock: Uluru Tour Pass; Sydney: Opera House Tour
  • 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 Sydney
From USA to Australia Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!


Please confirm with the airlines at Check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record.
Sun (Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer from Cairns Airport to the Accommodation
Cairns, Australia Travel by shuttle from the Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation in Cairns, Australia.

Departures occur approximately 30 minutes after aircraft arrival-time for domestic flights. For international flights this will be considerably longer because of customs and other formalities.

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.
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 4.5 star accommodation combines contemporary decor with a tropical ambience. The magnificent location of this 176 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 pool or bar followed by a sumptuous meal at the award winning Bushfire Flame Grill.

All rooms and suites have individual balconies, individually controlled air conditioning, refrigerator, television, broadband internet access, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, along with tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include: 24 hr reception, tour desk, free wireless internet, Bushfire Flame Grill, bar, pool, business services on request, coin operated laundry on four floors, room service, laundry & dry cleaning.
Insiders Tip - Explore the Esplanade
Experience the leisure atmosphere at the playground for locals and tourists alike at The Esplanade in Cairns!

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 out 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: All Year, 6am-9pm
Closed Wednesdays until midday for maintenance
Optional Day Tour (not included) - Cairns Night Zoo (Evening Event)
Enjoy a great Australian night out at the Cairns Night Zoo!

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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 lear
Mon - Mon (Days 3 to 10) - 7 Nights Liveaboard Dive Expedition Great Barrier Reef & Coral Sea
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.

<h3>Day 1: Depart Cairns & Dive</h3>
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.

<h3>Days 2 & 3: Diving Ribbon Reefs </h3>
These two days are spent diving at the most northern of the Ribbon Reefs, Number 9 & 10 Ribbon Reefs, 120 miles to the north of Cairns. You will dive at the Cod Hole, where you encounter a family of massive and very friendly Potato Cod. Other sites may include Wonder-wall, Pixie Pinnacle, Challenger Bay, Two Towers, Lighthouse Bommie, and the Snake Pit, just to name a few. 4 to 5 dives will be available each day, including a night dive on Day 2. On Day 3 you will overnight at beautiful Watson's Bay, Lizard Island, and enjoy a sunset BBQ dinner on the top deck.
<h3>Day 4: Mountain Walk & More Diving</h3>
This morning some of guests will depart at Lizard Island and some new guests will join the vessel. 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.

<h3>Days 5 & 6: Dive Osprey Reef</h3>
Osprey Reef. Australia's Coral Sea reefs are renowned 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.

<h3>Day 7: Dive Bougainville Reef or in the Ribbon Reefs</h3>
After overnight travel back to the Great Barrier Reef arrive at Ribbon Reefs Number 3 where you will dive such sites as the sensational Steve's Bommie, Temple of Doom, and Flare Point. A second option for this day, in special weather conditions, is to head south from Opsrey to Bougainville Reef, known for its unusual underwater landscape and caverns, and its partially submerged wreck. This evening you will cruise overnight back to Cairns.

<h3>Day 8: Arrive in Cairns</h3>
Arrive Cairns approximately 06:30am. Breakfast will be served on board and hotel transfer will be arranged for approx 07:30am.

<b>Operates</b>
Departs Cairns every Thursday at 12:00pm & returns to Cairns every Thursday at 8:00am

<b>Need to Know</b>
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.

Diver experience recommendation: Advanced Diver certification with minimum 20 ocean dives including 5 dives in the last 12 months.

Diver Health: If you have a medical condition or are currently taking prescription medication, you will need a medical clearance. For further details refer to our Diver Information form or contact our Reservations team.

Luggage Restrictions: Due to light aircraft restrictions, your total weight of your luggage is limited to 20 kilograms/ 45 lb per person, including your dive gear and carry-on luggage.

Snorkelers: The (at times) deeper reefs tops and swift currents of the Coral Sea, make the Coral Sea reefs only suitable for very experienced snorkelers and strong swimmers with a high level of fitness. You may not be able to snorkel at every site. Please note that while you may be safe under the watchful eye of the 'look-out' crew, a snorkel buddy may not always be available and you may be required to snorkel alone and to wear floatation equipment.

Room Types Available are: Ocean View Deluxe, Ocean View Standard, Stateroom, Double/Twin, Quad Share (paired with other divers)
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 4.5 star accommodation combines contemporary decor with a tropical ambience. The magnificent location of this 176 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 pool or bar followed by a sumptuous meal at the award winning Bushfire Flame Grill.

All rooms and suites have individual balconies, individually controlled air conditioning, refrigerator, television, broadband internet access, hair dryer, iron and ironing board, along with tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include: 24 hr reception, tour desk, wireless internet, Bushfire Flame Grill, bar, pool, business services on request, coin operated laundry on four floors, room service, laundry & dry cleaning.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - White Water Rafting (Half Day, Afternoon)
Australia, Queensland, Cairns, Half Day Tours Discover a fun and exciting way to discover the pristine rainforest, with a half day of rafting on the Barron River!

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Located just 20 minutes outside of Cairns, the half day raft is perfectly suited for the first time adventurer! This tour can be arranged from Cairns, the Northern Beaches or Port Douglas.

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.

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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.

<b>Operates</b> Daily; Departs: 2:15pm & Return: 5:00pm

<b>Need to Know</b> By booking this tour you confirm that you do not have a medical condition that would make it unsafe to participate. If you are pregnant you will be unable to raft. If you have a medical condition or are unsure that you are physically able to participate, we recommend that you consult with a medical practitioner. Prior to your rafting trip you will be required to complete a medical questionnaire and sign our liability waiver (either online or on paper). Minimum Ages: 13 years or older; Payable on Board: AUD$25.00 Environmental Levy

<b>Inclusions</b> Return transfers from accommodations; 2 hours of rafting; Equipment: life jacket, helmet, spray jacket ; Experienced river guide; Light refreshments

<b>Upgrades</b> Full Day Tully River (Grades 3-4)
Optional Day Tour (not included) - Cape Tribulation & Daintree Rainforest
Australia, Queensland, Cairns, Port Douglas Enjoy a day exploring the rainforest and amazing landscapes of the Cape Tribulation wilderness area with a visit to Mossman Gorge Center and Cape Tribulation.

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<b>Mossman Gorge Centre: </b> Visit the Mossman Gorge Gateway Centre for morning tea before boarding your shuttle for the transfer into Mossman Gorge. Your driver/guide will take you for a guided walk, sharing their knowledge of this enchanting rainforest environment. Learn about the fascinating secrets of one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests.

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<b>Daintree River Cruise: </b> Reach an understanding of this wildlife environment for one hour, habitat of birds, tree snakes, unique plants and of course the estuarine crocodile.

<b>Tropical Lunch: </b> With special access at a private rainforest property, enjoy a short walk along a delightful rainforest creek before a delicious tropical lunch. Choice of quality steak, fish or vegetarian meal with fresh salads and fruit platter, followed by coffee or Daintree Tea.

<b>Cape Tribulation: </b> Walk on this world-renowned rainforest beach and admire the coastline and fringing coral reef from the Kulki Lookout.

<b>Daintree Ice Cream Company: </b> Enjoy an afternoon refreshment at the Daintree Ice Cream Company. Included is a delicious cup of exotic fruit ice cream, made from fruit grown on their on-site orchard. Gluten / Dairy free options are available.

<b>Alexandra Lookout: </b> After winding through the rainforest of the Alexandra Range, enjoy this spectacular lookout over the Daintree River estuary, Snapper Island and beyond to the Coral Sea.

<b>Operates: </b> Daily (Does not operate on Christmas Day); Departs around 6:45am & Returns around 7:00pm

<b>Includes: </b> Return Hotel Transfers; Professional driver/guide; Mossman Gorge Centre with Morning Tea, Driver Guided Walk in Mossman Gorge; Daintree River Cruise; Lunch at Noah Valley in rainforest setting, Cape Tribulation Beach & boardwalk; Daintree Ice Cream Company; Alexandra Lookout

<b>Need to Know: </b> Tour not recommended for children under 4yrs due to the length of the tour & time spent in the vehicle.
Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Kuranda Heritage
A wonderful day awaits as you are transported on the historic Kuranda Scenic Rail to the famous village in the rainforest - Kuranda. Your Kuranda Boarding Pass ensures preferential seating, discounted entry into selected Kuranda attractions and a detailed map is also included. Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens, is your next stop. Board the amphibious Army Duck and enjoy the Koala & Wildlife Park. Transfer back to Kuranda, then it's time to board Skyrail for your return journey.

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Check in: A driver will check you in at your accommodation. You special Kuranda Boarding pass offerings pre-allocated seating on the Kuranda Scenic Rail and Skyrail, preferential seating on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, a detailed map of Kuranda, and discounted entry into selected Kuranda Attractions.

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Kuranda Scenic Rail: At the scheduled time board the famous Kuranda Scenic Rail. An amazing journey awaits you as you travel one of the world's most scenic rail routes, through hand-hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges.

Kuranda Village: Once you arrive at beautiful Kuranda Station, you have ample time to explore the many and varied shops, as well as the Heritage Markets which operate daily.

Rainforestation: Your shuttle coach will transfer you to Rainforestation, set in 40 hectares of lush gardens and tropical rainforest, where a number of unique attractions await you. Board the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a different look at the rainforest. Also included in your tour is the Koala & Wildlife Park. The shuttle bus will then take you back to Kuranda.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Board Skyrail, an experience which takes you over the rainforest canopy with stops along the way allowing you to take a stroll or visit the CSIRO Interpretive Centre. Our hostess will meet you on completion of Skyrail and will assist with your return transfer to your accommodation.

<b>Operates: </b> Daily (Subject to black outs for Kuranda maintainance.) Pick-up Between 7:00-8:00am and at Return at 5:30pm (approximately).

<b>Upgrade to Gold Class:</b> Dedicated host service; Individual seating, lounge-style chairs; Quality refreshments including sparkling Australian wine, beer, orange juice, soft drink, ice water, mocktails, tea, coffee and appetisers and a chilled refresher towel during the journey; Ambient, historical décor, including timber look flooring, historical photographs and cedar interior; Kuranda Scenic Railway gift pack including Kuranda Scenic Railway badge, pen, postcard and postage; Souvenir trip guide
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
Ayers Rock, Australia 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
Explore the fascinating surroundings of Australia's Red Centre.

Day 1 - Sunset/Afternoon:
Your experienced driver guide will give you an overview of the fascinating history of Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park as you make your way to Walpa Gorge, a lush desert haven for plants and animals. The gentle but rocky track will lead you into a world of rare plant species and lush evergreen shrubs known as Spearwood. Time to 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 Red Centre sunset.

Day 2 - Sunrise/Morning:
Enjoy tea or coffee and be inspired by an incredible view through stunning desert landscape as the sun rises over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. From the viewing platform it is possible to see way into the distance, providing an ideal photo opportunity. After the amazing sunrise and a relaxing morning tea, you will join a tour around the base of Uluru learning details on its geology and incredible history. Last on the morning tour is a visit to the Mutitjulu Waterhole and the Uluru - Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre.

Includes National Park Entry Pass
Optional Day Tour (not included) - Sounds of Silence Dinner (Evening Event)
Enjoy a unique gourmet desert dining experience at Uluru, the spiritual heart of Australia's Red Centre.

Forty minutes before sunset, travel into the desert where a didgeridoo welcome awaits you.

As the sun sinks behind the domes of Kata Tjuta (Olgas), enjoy a selection of fine beverages and sample delicious Outback canapés. At sunset, enjoy a special bush-blend vegetable soup followed by choice cuts of Australian delicacies, including kangaroo, emu, crocodile and barramundi, all served with fresh salads and followed by a selection of desserts.

Then relax as an astronomer guides you through the stars. Sit around the campfire (winter only) with tea or coffee and a glass of port.

<b>Operates</b> Daily; Departs 1 hour prior to sunset and lasts approximately 4 hours.

<b>Need to Know</b> Not available for children ages 9 and under.

<b>Inclusions</b> Canapes and sparkling wine. 3-course bush tucker inspired buffet. Didgeridoo performance. Guided tour of the night sky. Return transfers from accommodation.
Optional Evening Event (Not Included) - Aussie Barbeque
Aussie BBQ, Ayers Rock, Australia Enjoy the taste of a true Aussie-style barbecue dinner near the mighty Australian icon of Uluru (Ayers Rock). Mouth-watering flavours of beef, kangaroo and sizzling sausages

Relax in the heart of the rugged Red Centre desert and savour the mouth-watering flavours of beef, kangaroo and sizzling gourmet sausages. Accompanied by crisp seasonal salads, fresh bread rolls and a complementary selection of drinks (wine, beer and soft drink), this traditional Aussie barbecue is sure to satisfy after an exciting day of touring the Red Centre. After dinner, enjoy a cup of billy tea with a delicious dessert. Relax and admire the sight of the sun sinking below the desert plain, gradually revealing a magnificent outback night sky. Enjoy a star orientation tour of the southern sky. Transfers to and from Ayers Rock Resort are included. Pick up is also available from Uluru's Sunset Strip if joining from a Sunset Tour.
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
Sydney, Australia Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

Travel via shuttle to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.
Fri - Mon (Days 14 to 17) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Sydney
Sydney, Australia 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 - Fees Apply
Sat (Day 15) - Day Tour - Opera House Tour
On your vacation, participate in an inspiring tour of the Sydney Opera House.

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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.

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Upgrade to Opera House Tour & Tasting Plate Available
Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Harbour Cruise Express (Hop on Hop off)
On your vacation explore Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia with this unlimited full day pass, or take the 1 1/2 hour round trip cruise and see all the main harbour sights with commentary.

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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:
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).
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
Insiders Tip: Opal Shopping
Altmann & Cherny is a family owned jewellery business in Sydney with an international reputation for excellence in opals and is one of the World’s foremost Australian Opal authorities.

Australia is known as the country of origin for this splendid stone with 95% of the world's precious gem opal found exclusively in Australia. The Australian opal displays all the colors of the rainbow; holding a spectrum of colors found in nature. 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 Rubies.

Established in 1948 in hopes of sharing this unique gemstone with the world, they have built a reputation of providing the highest level of quality, service and value for three generations. Their mantra has always been and will continue to be - "Excellence in service, quality and value." So come share in this unique experience to learn more about Australian Opals at Altmann & Cherny!



<u>Altman + Cherny</u>
18 Pitt St., Sydney, NSW 2000 / Ph: 61 (02) 9251 9477

Hours: Monday - Friday: 9:30am - 5:30pm / Saturday & Sunday 10:00am - 4:00pm
Optional Day Tour (not included) - Bridge Climb Adventure
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.
Mon (Day 17) - Shuttle Transfer from Accommodation to Sydney Airport
Sydney, Australia Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia, to the Airport.

Mon (Day 17) - International Flight from Sydney to Los Angeles
From Australia to USA 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.

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