13-Day passengers depart Sydney.

Take a scenic drive today along the spectacular coast of New South Wales to the banana-growing district of Coffs Harbor and its beautiful surroundings. Overnight: Coffs Harbor, Novotel Pacific Bay Resort (D)

Day 2: Coffs Harbor—Brisbane

Visit the coastal town of Byron Bay, famous for its relaxing lifestyle and perfect climate. Nearby, Cape Byron marks the most easterly point on the Australian mainland. Continue north to the famous beaches of Surfer’s Paradise on the Gold Coast and on to Brisbane. Overnight: Brisbane, Royal on the Park (B)

Day 3: Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Australia Zoo, Fraser Island

11 day passengers join tour at 7:45am.

See the ancient jagged peaks of the Glass House Mountains on our way to Australia Zoo for a real wildlife experience. Made famous by Steve Irwin— Australia Zoo houses over 500 animals. See wildcaught crocodiles in action during the crocodile show. We continue via the Sunshine Coast to Hervey Bay where we join a cruise to Fraser Island. Overnight: Fraser Island, Kingfisher Bay Resort for 2 nights (B,D)

Day 4: Fraser Island, Freedom of Choice Touring

This morning there’s the opportunity to join a guided early morning birdwatchers tour. Then explore Fraser Island with our Freedom of Choice options. Join the local ranger for 4WD adventure of the island’s inlets and rainforest, visiting freshwater Lake MacKenzie and Wangoolba Creek. Alternatively, join a whale or dolphin watching cruise (subject to season). Adventure Option: upgrade to a full day 4WD rainforest and eastern beaches tour (additional cost). Tonight, relax and enjoy our Bush Tucker Talk with a park ranger and chef before savoring a delicious Bush Tucker Barbecue. (B,D)

Day 5: Fraser Island—Rockhampton

Cruise back to the mainland while watching for the Humpback whales which frequent these waters between August and October. Rejoin the coach, cross the Tropic of Capricorn to Rockhampton—where time allows for a stroll through the Botanic Gardens. Option to overnight on a working cattle station (additional US$75 per person) Overnight: Rockhampton, Travelodge (B,D)

Day 6: Rockhampton—Hamilton Island

Visit Henderson Park to learn the workings of a cattle station (ranch) in the morning. Then to Mackay, the area responsible for one third of Australia’s sugar crop, continuing on to Airlie Beach, gateway to the magical Whitsunday Islands. Travel to Hamilton Island and relax during a two-night stay on this luxurious island, one of the 74 making up the Whitsunday group. 8-Day passengers join tour on Hamilton Island. Overnight: Hamilton Island, Reef View Hotel for 2 nights (B)

Day 7: Hamilton Island, Sunset Drinks & Dine Around Dinner

Awaken to views of the Whitsundays and spend your day at leisure, choosing from over 40 different activities offered on the island. This evening, enjoy sunset drinks, then experience one of the island’s restaurants with our Dine Around Dinner and we’ll include it. (B,D)

Day 8: Townsville, Luxury at Dunk Island Resort

Today, cruise through the Whitsunday Passage back to the mainland. Stop in Townsville, the center for marine research for the Great Barrier Reef. At Mission Beach, transfer to Dunk Island, one of the most beautiful Barrier Reef islands. Unwind with two nights on this idyllic resort. Overnight: Dunk Island Resort, Garden Rooms for 2 nights (B,D)

Day 9: Dunk Island at Leisure

Today is yours to relax and discover all that Dunk has to offer. Join a guided walk to view the array of orchids and native flowers, take a stroll through the rainforest in search of the blue Ulysses butterfly, or simply relax on the palm-fringed beaches. A range of optional activities are available, including golf, tennis and a number of cruises (own expense). Ask the Tour Director for assistance with any arrangements. (B)

Day 10: Millaa Millaa Falls, Curtain Fig Tree, Port Douglas, Dine Around Dinner

Return to the mainland and tour the lush Atherton Tablelands. Join a wildlife cruise at Lake Barrine and visit beautiful Millaa Millaa Falls and the Curtain Fig Tree, a strangler fig that has consumed its host tree, sending down a curtain of roots. Travel to the resort town of Port Douglas where tonight, you can choose to dine at a selected local restaurant along the renowned Macrossan Street or enjoy dinner and a quiet evening at the resort. Overnight: Port Douglas, Mantra Treetops Resort and Spa (B,D)

Day 11: Port Douglas—Freedom of Choice Reef Touring

Today explore the Great Barrier Reef your way, with three exciting cruises to choose from. All cruises include a delicious lunch on board. Cruise to the Outer Reef on the “Wavepiercer.” At Agincourt Reef or magnificent Ribbon Reef, go snorkeling with the tropical fish or view the coral from the semi-sub. Alternatively, go sailing on the “Wavedancer” luxury catamaran. Soak up the sun as you cruise the Coral Sea before mooring in the picturesque Low Isles. Here, first-time snorkelers can wade in from the beach. Your third option is for the adventurous. Join the “Silversonic” and travel further out to sea for snorkeling in remote Outer Reef locations. Whichever tour you choose, it’s all included in your fare. Overnight: Cairns, Rydges Tradewinds Hotel for 2 nights (B,L)

Day 12: Cairns, Kuranda, Farewell Dinner

Journey aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway up to Rainforestation and watch a traditional performance by the Pamagirri Aboriginal Dancers. Ride aboard the Army Duck for a journey on land and through water. Later traverse the Kuranda Skyrail, and glide over the rainforest canopy, passing the lush Cairns Highlands and waterfalls as you journey down the range. This evening enjoy our special Farewell Dinner at Cairns Night Zoo – a great Australian night to celebrate with your newly found friends. (B,D)

Day 13: Depart Cairns

Free time before your transfer to Cairns Airport and your onward flight. (B)

Note: Many dates are guaranteed—ask when booking. This Itinerary valid for departures up to 31 Mar 09. Same fares for reverse directions CS13, CS11, CS08. All prices, itineraries and routings are subject to change. Please call for our current prices.

Note: Many dates are guaranteed—ask when booking. This Itinerary valid for departures up to 31 Mar 09. Same fares for reverse directions CS13, CS11, CS08. All prices, itineraries and
routings are subject to change.
Please call for our current prices.

Tour Codes: CN13 ( 13-day), CN11 ( 11-day), CN08 ( 8 day)