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Vanuatu Diving & Exploring [ST-DiveVAN4]

13 Days/ 11 Nights - Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu, Port Vila, Vanuatu, Sydney

Begin your vacation of a lifetime on the island of Espiritu Santo (Santo). With many wrecks and reefs to be explored, it is a very popular tourist destination for divers. Champagne Beach draws tourists with its pink sand and clear waters. The "Western Side" of the island contains many caves which may be explored, and cruise ships often stop in at Luganville.

The capital of Port Vila is the hub of tourism in Vanuatu. Be sure to visit the Mummas Market located downtown. Outside of Port Vila a more rustic destination awaits, with most people living a traditional lifestyle: cooking island food, going to tend their gardens daily as subsistence agriculture is the dominant economy in Vanuatu and swimming at the beach.

Enjoy the sights of Sydney, a World Class City from your Downtown Accommodation. Experience the beauty of the Harbour, the Opera House and marvel at the expansive Sydney Harbour Bridge. Take advantage of the many tour options or just go at your own pace and enjoy the excellent restaurants and entertainment that only Sydney can offer.

Travel Package Features

• Accommodation - Santo, Vanuatu (7 Nights), Port Vila, Vanuatu (2 Nights), Sydney (2 Nights)
• International Flights -Los Angeles to Brisbane, Brisbane to Santo (via Port Vila), Port Vila to Sydney, Sydney to Los Angeles
• Vanuatu Domestic Flights - Santo to Port Vila
• US Domestic Flights not included (as per your own arrangements)
• Day Tours - Santo: 5 Day Dive Package including SS President Coolidge & Million Dollar Point
• Shuttle Transfers - Santo Airport to Accommodation (Return), Port Vila Airport to Accommodation (Return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return)
• 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.

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

(Day 1) - International Flight, 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) - International Flight, Brisbane to Espiritu Santo

International flight to Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu

Your International flight will take you to Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu direct from Brisbane.

(Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer, Espiritu Santo Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your Vanuatu Accommodation.

(Days 2 to 9) - 7 Nights Accommodation in Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu

Your Vanuatu Accommodation offers a friendly and lively environment popular with dive groups and singles. Their outdoor dining area and partially-shaded pool have stunning views of Santo and its nearby islands.

Amenities include: private showers and toilets, fridge and fans in each room, secure dive gear washing and storage facilities, continental breakfast, rec room/lounge, island nights, bar/restaurant and tour bookings. 10 minute walk to/from town.

(Days 3 through 7) - 5 Day Dive Package Including SS President Coolidge & Million Dollar Point

Five days of diving on the SS Coolidge and Million Dollar Point.

SS PRESIDENT COOLIDGE DIVING:
Considered by many divers to be the best wreck dive in the world, the SS President Coolidge was a luxury passenger liner converted to a troop carrier during WWII. While entering the Santo harbor she was hit by friendly mines, providing divers with a remarkable underwater playground.

Almost completely intact, you can swim through the numerous holds and decks viewing the reminders of her glorious days as a cruise liner and the remnants of her days as a troop ship. There are guns, cannons, jeeps, helmets, trucks and personal supplies left by some of the soldiers, as well as the beautiful porcelain statue of "The Lady," chandeliers and a mosaic tile fountain. The wreck is covered in coral and is home to a plethora of sea life including turtles, barracuda, lion fish, and a host of reef fish.

If you want to see the whole wreck, you'll need at least 10 to 15 dives - she's 200 metres in length and rests in 20 to 72 metres of water! - But you can certainly get a feel for her magnitude and majesty on even a few dives.


MILLION DOLLAR POINT DIVING:
After World War 2, the American's forces based in Santo were ordered not to leave any military equipment and supplies on the island (to avoid them getting into the wrong hands). The solution was the establishment of an underwater dump site, now known as Million Dollar Point. It is an easy dive from the shore where you can see two ship wrecks, and numerous amounts of military hardware and supplies - including bulldozers, cranes, trucks etc. A great diversity of marine life has made this their home with some unusual coral growth amongst the wreckage.

(Day 9) - Shuttle Transfer, Espiritu Santo Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from the your Vanuatu Accommodation to the Airport.

(Day 9) - Vanuatu Domestic Flight, Espiritu Santo to Port Vila

Fly from Espiritu Santo Airport to Port Vila.

(Day 9) - Shuttle Transfer, Port Vila Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Port Vila Airport to your vacation Accommodation.

(Days 9 to 11) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Port Vila, Vanuatu

Travel to your accommodation in Port Vila, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Soak up the year-round tropical climate at our luxurious Vanuatu hotel accommodation with prime waterfront location on Port Vila Harbour. The rooms feature private balcony, ensuite and internet access. Enjoy a continental breakfast; take a leisurely swim in our swimming pool; exercise in the gymnasium; relax in the restaurant; or unwind at the casino.

(Day 10) - Free Day to Explore Port Vila

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Horseback Riding ½ Day Experience

Enjoy an unforgetable experience of horseback riding through the beach, bush and hills!

This half day expedition offers a versatile combination of scenery, beach, hills behind the ranch, wild bush and tropical forest and the beautiful garden with breathtaking views of the sea. Enjoy the star of the bay, Hide-away Island, not so hidden for many lucky tourists, would become the star of your own photos.

All riders are welcome, with gentle placid mounts for absolute beginners and more spirited horses for advanced riders.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Pentecost Land Diving

Come witness this annual land diving ritual.

Experience a full day trip to Pentecost Island to witness this death defying ritual where divers survive by the natural elastic vines just inches before they hit the ground. The ritual of the N'gol is an extraordinary event, filled with a dignity and mystique - and real risk to life and limb. This ritual celebrates the Yam Harvest annually. This is a unique cultural experience with limited departures.

Selected Days in April, May & June

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Port Vila Parasailing

Whilst visiting Port Vila you have a great opportunity to come parasailing with us.

You will enjoy a short jet boat ride over the beautiful harbour of Port Vila in our purpose built parasailing boat. You will be assisted into your life jacket and harness so that, when your turn comes, you can be hooked up and slowly winched off the flight deck into the air. The crew will give you a briefing on what to expect during your flight so there will be no surprises.

You will parasail around spectacular Mele Bay, and from a height of around 75 metres you will see villages and Islands, reefs and the sea. At the end of your flight you will be gradually winced back to the flight deck.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Efate Round Island Safari

This takes you around the island of Efate accompanied by your driver/guide who will give you some insight into the history and lifestyle of Vanuatu.

Passing pandanus fringed coastline you'll pass true Melanesian villages of the South Pacific. Enjoy a swim and view beautiful white sand beaches and appreciate the crystal-clear turquoise waters as you travel around the island.

Weather permitting, a further highlight of today's tour is witnessing the time-honoured art of fire-walking. The tradition and preparation the men undertake before performing will be explained.

You journey on passing more villages to catch glimpses of local life, before arriving at a local restaurant for a buffet-style lunch. Following lunch, stops will also be made to view remnants of the American forces involvement in Vanuatu during World War 2. During your afternoon refreshment stop, you have time to cool off with a swim in the safe tropical waters.

On the way back to Port Vila you will pass Klems Hill Lookout which provides a superb view over Mele Bay, Hideaway Island and the township in the distance.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Best of Efate Scenic Helicopter Ride

Get ready for take off and see the Best of Efate Island!

Fly over Hideaway Island resort marine sanctuary, over the famous Cascade Falls and then look below into dense jungle scenery, bush clad blow holes and tight ravines that lead into Havannah Harbour. Havannah Harbour has the true unspoilt natural beauty Vanuatu offers. Witness elegant/beautiful dudong and turtle sea life swimming below in deep blue mirror flat water as you cross the harbour to reach Moso Island.
Only 2 passengers per flight

Adventure Flight Upgrade Available
Romantic Flight Upgrade Available

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Kayaking, Snorkeling and Beautiful Waterfalls

Experience the famous Mele Cascades Waterfalls and the amazing underwater World of Vanuatu all in one amazing Kayaking tour.

From your hotel enjoy a 15 min drive by air-con bus to the famous Mele Cascades Waterfalls, cool off in the natural springs. Enjoy a light lunch at the river side cafe. A short time later you will be welcomed on the beach and paddle your glass bottom kayak to a small sand island, swim or snorkel at your leisure in the underwater paradise, experience some of the best snorkeling Vanuatu has to offer in the beautiful Mele bay, frequently sighted resident dolphins & turtles may join you.

This tour is fully guided by experienced local Ni-Vanuatu Guides to maximise your enjoyment in an eco friendly way.

Suitable to all age groups & fitness levels

(Day 11) - Shuttle Transfer, Port Vila Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Port Vila vacation Accommodation to the Airport

(Day 11) - International Flight, Port Vila to Sydney

Today fly from Port Vila, Vanuatu to Sydney, Australia.

(Day 11) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation

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

(Days 11 to 13) - 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 12) - Free Day to Explore Sydney

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

The Monorail connection to the City Center provides quick transit, or walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or to the lovely tree-lined beach suburb of Manly. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Sydney Opera House Tour - 1 Hr

This inspiring tour provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to venture inside one of the world's most recognised global landmarks.

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) - Americas Cup Sailing in the Sydney Harbour

Take a unique opportunity to participate as crew on a real America's Cup yacht.

Take the helm, trim the sails, work on the grinders or simply sit back and enjoy the ride as you soak up the atmosphere and sights of spectacular Sydney Harbour.

The America's Cup is the world's oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy and ultimate yachting regatta. Usually the domain of billionaires and elite professional yachtsmen, these amazing yachts offer a remarkable chance to participate in sailing on these grand prix racing machines.

Australia was the first country to break the American hold on this famous old trophy in 1983, a 132 year winning streak that dated back to 1851.

No sailing experience necessary; Sailings daily, 2.5 hour duration

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

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Hunter Valley Wine Tour - Full Day

Winery Tour in the Hunter Valley.

Departs Wednesday, Friday & Sunday in the morning (Full Day Tour). Credited with being one of the premier wine regions in the world, let us tempt your taste buds as we showcase 3 of the regions best wineries. We meander through the majestic Hunter Valley and include wine tasting at Wyndham Estate, McGuigans and McWilliams Mt Pleasant winery. Take the time to refresh your palette with local cheeses (own expense) or browse the quaint little gift shops of Wollombi. A delicious steak and vegetables lunch with damper (aussie bread) is included whilst you sit back and enjoy learning the "tricks of the trade". Partake in a tour of the wine making process. (Vegetarian meals available). Return to Sydney late afternoon. Evening Free.

Operates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Insider's Tip: Australian Opals

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

Insider's Tip: Hop on the Sydney Explorer bus to explore the city

The Sydney Explorer is a Hop On, Hop Off, sightseeing bus that takes in 27 key landmarks of the inner city (Opera House, Darling Harbour) and eastern beaches (Coogee and Bondi).

This unique city tour through Sydney departs from Circular Quay every 20 minutes starting at 8:40am, with the last round-trip service departing at 5:20pm. You can get on or off at any of the stops on the route. After traveling through some of Sydney's most exclusive residential areas, the tours take in some of Sydney's most spectacular coastlines and beaches. The bus travels every day along a 30km route and makes numerous stops. The bus trip takes 2 hours to complete the whole journey (with no stops). Buy your tickets onboard ($39 AUD for Adult ticket). Use your ticket stub to get amazing discounts at each stop location. Please Note: Sydney Opera House is one of the stops if you would like to do the Explorer on the same day as your Opera House tour.

For additional information, please visit: http://www.city-sightseeing.com/?command=search&clear-search=true&destinations=Sydney

(Day 13) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

(Day 13) - International Flight, 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 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