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Board your transpacific flight and skip a day as you cross the International Date Line.
Haere Mai—welcome to New Zealand! This afternoon is free for you to explore the pretty garden city of Christchurch.
This morning, board the TRANZ ALPINE TRAIN for one of the most spectacular rail journeys in the world. Enjoy stunning scenery as we journey through spectacular gorges, river valleys, and across the country’s greatest mountain range, the magnificent Southern Alps. Disembark at Arthur’s Pass and continue to Hokitika by motorcoach. Here, take the opportunity to see Pounamu (jade) being carved into beautiful jewelery. Continue along the dramatic West Coast and enter the World Heritage-listed area of Te Wahipounamu— South West New Zealand. View the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier. Nowhere in the world’s temperate zones are glaciers as accessible as here. There may be the opportunity to enjoy an optional scenic flight over this incredible region, weather permitting. (B,D)
Enjoy a day of incredible scenery as we travel along the West Coast, through a world of mountains and glaciers, limestone landscapes, tranquil lakes, raging rivers, and rare bird and plant life. At Haast, experience a unique RIVER SAFARI with breathtaking views of the massive glacier-formed Haast River Valley, flanked by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense temperate rainforest. Follow the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea to the action-packed alpine resort of Queenstown. Tonight, choose from one of four restaurants for dinner. (B,D)
Queenstown is an exhilarating, year-round alpine resort, perfect for adventurers and leisure-seekers alike. Today we have a selection of activities for you to choose from. A Queenstown “Double Decker Explorer” tour, an “Original Wine Tour” of some of the local and awardwinning wineries, an exhilarating jetboat ride on the Shotover River, or a relaxing garden tour might be for you. Perhaps the “Safari of the Scenes” tour, a 4WD adventure into Skippers Canyon, might appeal, or a leisurely walk around Lake Wakatipu on a “Lakeshore Forest and Bird Walk.” (B)
More beautiful scenery today as you travel into FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK through the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has the elite status of belonging to UNESCO’s World Heritage Parks. CRUISE on the fiord with sheer rock walls rising thousands of feet from the water’s great depths. This afternoon we have a relaxing drive to the tranquil settlement of Te Anau. (B,D)
Travel across the South Island through small farming communities to Dunedin. The city was settled by the Scottish in 1848 and is now known as the “Edinburgh of the South.” Dunedin is also the old Gaelic name for Edinburgh. This afternoon, choose what activity you want to participate in. Consider a tour of the Speights Brewery and Heritage Centre where they brew popular Speights Ale; maybe visit Otago Peninsula to see the Royal Albatross Colony or explore Penguin Place to spot “Hoiho,” rare yellow-eyed penguins; or perhaps explore Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle and its beautiful gardens. (B,D)
Departing Dunedin we journey north to Moeraki Beach with its unusual boulders. Stop at Oamaru, a historic town renowned for its distinct cream limestone buildings, then continue inland past beautiful glacier-fed lakes of incredible color. We continue our journey into New Zealand’s highland and MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK. View Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain at 3,754 meters above sea level. You may wish to take an optional scenic flight over this awe-inspiring alpine region, weather permitting. (B,D)
This morning we stop at the beautiful Lake Tekapo, once an ancient glacier, and visit the picturesque stone Church of the Good Shepherd. Leaving the High Country we cross the braided Rakaia River and travel through the mixed cropping and sheep grazing holdings of the vast Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. (B,D)
This morning, choose from a range of exciting activities. Enjoy a sightseeing tour including the Antarctic Centre, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, Christchurch Tram, and Christchurch Gondola; take a leisurely trip on the Avon River or a bike ride around Christchurch City; or maybe wander through some of Christchurch’s local gardens. Later, transfer to the airport for departure. Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
Airport transfers may be included when you make your flight arrangements.
(Fri. & Sat.) Board your transpacific flight and skip a day as you cross the International Date Line.
(Sun.) Haere Mai— welcome to New Zealand! Hotel rooms are available for immediate check-in. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special WELCOME DINNER. (D)
(Mon.) Sightseeing starts with a drive up the winding Summit Road for views of Lyttleton Harbor, then past Christchurch’s old stone buildings, the charming Avon River, and acres of green parks. The remainder of the day is free to explore this beautiful English “Garden City.” (B)
(Tue.) Today, journey through the alpine scenery of MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK, named after the highest peak in New Zealand. Weather permitting, don’t miss the chance to take an optional ski-plane flight that actually lands on the 18-mile-long Tasman Glacier. It is an unforgettable experience. Dinner tonight is at your hotel. (B,D)
(Wed.) Today, enjoy fantastic views as you journey through the snowcapped peaks, waterfalls, and rugged mountain scenery of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Later, arrive in Queenstown, nicknamed the “Adventure Capital of the World.” (B)
(Thu.) More beautiful scenery today as you travel into FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK through the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has the elite status of belonging to UNESCO’s World Heritage Parks. CRUISE on the fiord with sheer rock walls rising thousands of feet from the water’s great depths. (B,L)
(Fri.) A full day at leisure for your own discovery. Consider an optional visit to a local vineyard and sample some of the prize vintages, or maybe a thrilling jetboat ride on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers. Your Tour Director will have suggestions to help you plan your day to explore, shop, and enjoy optional activities. This evening, enjoy breathtaking scenery in every direction as you cruise Lake Wakatipu on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw. Upon arrival at Walter Peak, you will be served dinner at Colonel’s Homestead. (B,D)
(Sat.) A short flight brings you to Rotorua, the center of the Maori culture set in the heart of New Zealand’s geothermal wonderland. Tonight, enjoy a traditional HANGI DINNER followed by an authentic MAORI CONCERT. (B,D)
(Sun.) This morning, sightseeing begins with a visit to TE PUIA, Rotorua’s most prominent thermal area with New Zealand’s largest geyser, boiling mud pools, and silica terraces. Continue on to the AGRODOME to learn more about one of the country’s major industries—sheep! Then on to RAINBOW SPRINGS, home to rainbow trout and the flightless kiwi bird in its nocturnal “Kiwi House.” This evening, you may wish to enjoy the hospitality of a New Zealand family at dinner in their home. (B)
(Mon.) This morning, travel north through Waikato to the famous WAITOMO GLOWWORM CAVES. Experience a guided tour through the limestone chambers and passages of the caverns. Enjoy a silent boat trip through Glowworm Grotto as you glide quietly beneath the lights of thousands of glowworms suspended from the cave ceiling. Later, arrive in the “City of Sails,” situated on an isthmus between two magnificent harbors. During your sightseeing, ascend Mt. Eden for magnificent views of the city and Ragitoto Island, the volcanic cone which dominates the inner harbor. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a FAREWELL DINNER. (B,D)
(Tue.) Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
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This afternoon, choose one of the following activities. Perhaps take a trip to the top of the Sky Tower, visit the Auckland museum, enjoy a half-day Auckland City sightseeing tour, explore Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World, visit Auckland’s Maritime Museum, cruise aboard the Pride of Auckland, relax with a Bliss Royal Reflexology treatment, or trek through the Waitakere Rainforest.
This morning we journey to the crest of Mount Eden, one of Auckland’s extinct volcanoes, to enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the city and its beautiful harbors. Leaving the “City of Sails” we travel south through the rich dairyland of the Waikato Province to WAITOMO GLOWWORM CAVES. Here we experience a guided tour of the underground limestone caverns, including the magnificent Cathedral Cave. Join a silent boat ride and glide through a mystical grotto, carved by an underground river over thousands of years and lit by thousands of tiny glowworms. Emerge into daylight and continue to Rotorua. Tonight, enjoy a traditional HANGI DINNER followed by an authentic MAORI CONCERT. (B,D)
Country Homestay Option. Rotorua is New Zealand’s oldest and best-known resort, where generations of visitors have enjoyed its waters, marvelled at its fascinating geothermal activity, and experienced the region’s unique Maori culture. Today we give you the opportunity to select your activity. Choose to visit Rotorua’s icon attractions: Te Puia Thermal Reserve and Maori Arts & Crafts Institute and the Agrodome Sheep Show. Perhaps relax at the Polynesian Spa with a spa treatment and leisurely soak in a natural thermal mineral pool, explore Rainbow Springs and Kiwi Encounter, enjoy a half-day ecothermal tour or explore the Rotorua Museum. This evening, choose to join our country homestay option and spend a night with a local family. (B,D) NOTE: Space is limited and must be requested at the time of booking.
Today we follow the Thermal Explorer Highway to the heart of the North Island. See the spectacular Huka Falls, mouth of the mighty Waikato River, and tranquil Lake Taupo, the water-filled crater of an ancient volcano. We travel south and cross the vast volcanic plateau of World Heritage-listed Tongariro National Park. The three mountains at the heart of the park—Tongariro, Ngauruhoe, and Ruapehu—have cultural and religious significance for the Maori people. Continue to Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, and journey to the top of Mount Victoria. Enjoy a stunning panoramic view of this busy cosmopolitan city and its sparkling harbor. (B,D)
This morning, enjoy a brief city sightseeing tour, including Parliament Buildings, before an opportunity to visit Te Papa , the National Museum of New Zealand. Displayed here is the past, present, and future of New Zealand, with stunning displays, complex technology, interactive exhibitions, and activities. This afternoon we join our CRUISE for the journey across Cook Strait to the South Island, renowned as one of the most beautiful crossings in the world. Sail from scenic Wellington Harbour across Cook Strait and through the breathtaking natural beauty of Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Rejoin our motorcoach and travel to Blenheim for our overnight stay. (B,D)
Today is a spectacular scenic journey between mountain and sea. Travel through Marlborough, a region with an international reputation for white wines. Arrive in the thriving seaside settlement of Kaikoura for unique whale-, seal-, and dolphin-watching experiences. Journey between the Pacific Ocean and rugged Kaikoura Ranges, through North Canterbury to Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island and renowned as the “Garden City.” Upon arrival we enjoy a brief city sightseeing tour, then the afternoon is at your leisure to explore the English flavor of this pretty city. (B,D)
This morning, board the TRANZALPINE TRAIN for one of the most spectacular rail journeys in the world. Enjoy stunning scenery as we journey through spectacular gorges, river valleys, and across the country’s greatest mountain range, the magnificent Southern Alps. Continue along the dramatic West Coast by motorcoach and enter the World Heritage-listed area of Te Wahipounamu—South West New Zealand. View the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier. Nowhere in the world’s temperate zones are glaciers as accessible as here. There may be the opportunity to enjoy an optional scenic flight over this incredible region, weather permitting. (B,D)
Enjoy a day of incredible scenery as we travel along the West Coast, through a world of mountains and glaciers, limestone landscapes, tranquil lakes, raging rivers, and rare bird and plant life. At Haast, experience a unique RIVER SAFARI, capturing breathtaking views of the massive glacier-formed Haast River Valley, flanked by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and dense temperate rainforest. Follow the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea to the action-packed alpine resort of Queenstown. Tonight, choose from one of four restaurants for dinner. (B,D)
Queenstown is an exhilarating, year-round alpine resort, perfect for adventurers and leisure-seekers alike. Today we have a selection of activities for you to choose from. A Queenstown “Double Decker Explorer” tour, an “Original Wine Tour” of some of the local and award-winning wineries, an exhilarating jetboat ride on the Shotover River, or a relaxing garden tour might be for you. Perhaps the “Safari of the Scenes” tour, an adventure into Skippers Canyon by 4WD, might appeal, or a leisurely walk around Lake Wakatipu on a “Lakeshore Forest and Bird Walk.” (B)
Travel across the South Island through small farming communities to Dunedin. The city was settled by the Scottish in 1848 and is now renowned as the “Edinburgh of the South.” Dunedin is also the old Gaelic name for Edinburgh. This afternoon, choose your activity. Perhaps take a tour of Speights Brewery and Heritage Centre where they brew the popular Speights Ale, or a visit to the Otago Peninsula to see the Royal Albatross Colony. Consider exploring Penguin Place to spot the “Hoiho,” rare yellow-eyed penguins, or maybe explore Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle with its beautiful gardens. (B,D)
This morning we stop at beautiful Lake Tekapo, once an ancient glacier, and visit the picturesque stone Church of the Good Shepherd. Leaving the High Country we cross the braided Rakaia River and travel through the mixed cropping and sheep grazing holdings of the vast Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. (B,D)
Board your transpacific flight and cross the International Date Line.
Arrival in Cairns.
Great Barrier Reef cruise.
Full day at your leisure.
Fly to Sydney.
Guided sightseeing; Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge photo stop; see the historic “Rocks” area and visit Bondi Beach.
Fly to Melbourne.
Guided sightseeing; visit the botanical gardens.
Fly to Christchurch.
Fly to Queenstown.
Full-day guided sightseeing to Fiordland National Park; cruise on Milford Sound.
Your homebound flight arrives the same day.
Airport transfers may be included when you make your flight arrangements. You might also be interested in
Fly to Ayers Rock; guided sightseeing; visit The Olgas, view the sunset at Ayers Rock, and enjoy a champagne toast.
Guided morning sightseeing; visit the base of Ayers Rock.
Fly to Alice Springs; guided sightseeing; visit the Old Telegraph Station, Anzac Hill, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
Full day at leisure.
South Pacific Sampler (PG) 15 days Cairns, Melbourne, Sydney, Christchurch, Queenstown Explore fascinating Australia and New Zealand during this captivating Regional Discovery vacation. Begin in Cairns with an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef and dinner at Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Fly to Melbourne to see Fitzroy Gardens and the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island. On to Sydney for a tour of the Opera House and for a demonstration at the famous Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club. Then, travel to Christchurch, New Zealand’s famed “Garden City.” Enjoy spectacular views on the way to Queenstown, where a visit to Fiordland National Park and a cruise on breathtaking Milford Sound are the perfect conclusion to your unforgettable vacation!
(Sun.) G’day and welcome to Australia! Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special WELCOME DINNER at your hotel. (B,D)
(Mon.) Board a fast catamaran for a CRUISE to Green Island, one of the many tropical islands on Australia’s famous Great Barrier Reef. Here you can choose to snorkel, take a GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOUR, or walk through the island’s cool rainforest. This afternoon, your Tour Director can assist you with a variety of optional activities, including crocodile spotting. Tonight, dinner will be held at TJAPUKAI ABORIGINAL CULTURAL PARK—an interactive and entertaining portrayal of the culture, dance, and folklore of this indigenous tribe. (B,D)
(Tue.) Morning at leisure in this tropical paradise. For a truly amazing rainforest experience, consider our optional trip to Kuranda via the old scenic rail route. See magnificent scenery, lush rainforests, and twisting waterfalls from the comfort of a restored, historic mountain train. Later today, fly to Melbourne, Australia’s second-largest city. (B)
(Wed.) Today’s tour includes landmarks such as Parliament House and the Shrine of Remembrance, a tribute to Australia’s war heroes. Visit beautiful FITZROY GARDENS and then drive past the lush Royal Botanical Gardens. You’ll soon discover the differing architectural influences of this city as you see the Victorian Arts Centre and other buildings of significance. Also stop at one of the country’s leading OPAL COMPANIES to discover how the beautiful gems are mined. For a unique dining experience, join an optional outing on board a historic tramcar restaurant as it winds its way through the streets of Melbourne. Later this afternoon, visit a local WILDLIFE PARK to see koalas and kangaroos. Then, continue on to Phillip Island to see the world-famous PENGUIN PARADE from an exclusive viewing platform. (B,D)
(Thu.) Fly to Sydney, one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Your sightseeing this afternoon includes a visit to the SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE and its amazing interior and theaters, as well as a great photo stop at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, located in the city’s BOTANICAL GARDENS and offering sweeping views of the harbor, Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. Feel like a local while touring the world-famous BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB and enjoy a lifesaving demonstration! Today’s highlight is a special dinner at a waterfront restaurant with fantastic views of Sydney. (B,D)
(Fri.) A full day at leisure for your own discoveries. Perhaps join one of our optional excursions, including an adventure to the Blue Mountains for a wilderness experience or an excursion to the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s leading wine growing regions. You can even climb to the top of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge! (B)
(Sat.) Another day at leisure for your own discoveries. The choice is yours and your Tour Director will have suggestions to help you make the most of this exciting city. Tonight, enjoy a sumptuous sunset DINNER CRUISE on one of Sydney’s most prestigious cruise ships. (B,D)
(Sun.) Haere Mai—welcome to New Zealand! The remainder of the day is at leisure in this internationally famed “Garden City.” (B)
(Mon.) Enjoy sightseeing with a drive up the winding Summit Road for views of Lyttleton Harbour, then past Christchurch’s old stone buildings, the charming Avon River, and acres of green parks. (B)
(Tue.) Today, enjoy fantastic views as you journey through the snowcapped peaks, waterfalls, and rugged mountain scenery of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. Later, arrive in Queenstown, nicknamed the “Adventure Capital of the World.” (B)
(Wed.) More beautiful scenery today as you travel into FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK through the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has the elite status of belonging to UNESCO’s World Heritage Parks. CRUISE on the fiord with sheer rock walls rising thousands of feet from the water’s great depths. (B,L)
(Thu.) A full day at leisure for your own discovery. Consider an optional visit to a local vineyard and sample some of the prize vintages or maybe a thrilling jetboat ride on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers. Your Tour Director will have suggestions to help you plan your day to explore, shop, and enjoy optional activities. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a FAREWELL DINNER at Walter Peak, including a cruise aboard a vintage steamship on stunning Lake Wakatipu. (B,D)
(Fri.) Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
AIRPORT TRANSFERS Airport transfers may be included when you make your flight arrangements.
SOUTH PACIFIC SAMPLER WITH FIJI EXTENSION 18 days (PGQ)
Fiji is located at the crossroads of the South Pacific, where time stands still among palm-fringed beaches, fabulous coral gardens, and azure lagoons. Much of Fiji is still untouched by the outside world, and, in some places, life has changed very little for centuries. Whether you wish to explore the islands and cultures of this enticing archipelago or simply relax, Fiji offers an unforgettable experience. Spend three nights at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa. Included in your stop are all transfers and breakfast daily. Services of Local Hosts are also available; they will provide you with any information that you require and will assist you with sightseeing to suit your interests.
Haere Mai—welcome to New Zealand! Hotel rooms are available for immediate check-in. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special WELCOME DINNER. (D)
Today, sightsee in this attractive city known as the “City of Sails,” situated on an isthmus between two magnificent harbors. From the top of Mount Eden you have a stunning view of Auckland as well as Rangitoto Island, the volcanic cone which dominates the inner harbor. Today’s highlight is a visit to KELLY TARLTON’S ANTARCTIC ENCOUNTER, where you will see colonies of penguins playing in real ice and snow. Then, travel beneath the ocean to see giant stingrays, moray eels, and come face-to-face with the awesome predators of the deep—sharks! The afternoon is free for you to enjoy this unique harbor city. Your Tour Director has suggestions for other activities. (B)
Leave Auckland and travel through the green pastoral region of Waikato to the famous WAITOMO GLOWWORM CAVES. Experience a guided tour through the limestone chambers and passages of the cavern. Enjoy a silent boat trip through Glowworm Grotto as you glide quietly beneath the lights of thousands of glowworms suspended from the cave ceiling. In the afternoon, continue over the Mamaku Ranges to Rotorua. On arrival, experience TE PUIA, Rotorua’s most prominent thermal area with New Zealand’s largest geyser, boiling mud pools, and silica terraces. Enjoy a traditional HANGI DINNER this evening, followed by an authentic MAORI CONCERT. (B,D)
This morning, visit the AGRODOME to learn more about one of the country’s major industries—sheep! Then on to RAINBOW SPRINGS, home to rainbow trout and the flightless kiwi bird in its nocturnal “Kiwi House.” A flight takes you to Queenstown on the South Island, home base for discovering every type of adventure sport imaginable. See the sights of this popular resort town, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps. This evening, enjoy breathtaking scenery in every direction as you CRUISE Lake Wakatipu on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw. On arrival at Walter Peak you will be served dinner at Colonel’s Homestead. (B,D)
More beautiful scenery today as you travel into FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK through the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has the elite status of belonging to UNESCO’s World Heritage Parks. CRUISE on the fiord with sheer rock walls rising thousands of feet from the water’s great depths. (B,L)
A full day at leisure for your own discovery. Consider an optional visit to a local vineyard and sample some of the prize vintages, or maybe a thrilling jetboat ride on the Kawarau and Shotover Rivers. Your Tour Director will have suggestions to help you plan your day to explore, shop, and enjoy optional activities. (B)
Motor north to magnificent MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK, named after New Zealand’s highest peak. Weather permitting, choose to take an optional ski-plane flight that actually lands on the 18-mile-long Tasman Glacier or a thrilling helicopter ride. Later in the day, leave this alpine wonderland and drive to Lake Tekapo to view the Church of the Good Shepherd. Cross the patchwork Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, the “Garden City.” (B)
Sightseeing starts with a drive up the winding Summit Road for views of Lyttleton Harbor, then past Christchurch’s old stone buildings, the charming Avon River, and acres of green parks. On the way to the airport you have the option to visit the International Antarctic Centre, designed to give a “firsthand” experience of Antarctica, before your flight across the Tasman Sea to Melbourne, Australia. (B)
G’day and welcome to Australia! Today’s sightseeing includes landmarks such as Parliament House and the Shrine of Remembrance, a tribute to Australia’s war heroes. Visit beautiful FITZROY GARDENS, then drive past the lush Royal Botanical Gardens. You’ll soon discover the different architectural influences of this city as you see the Victorian Arts Centre and other buildings of significance. We also stop at one of the country’s leading OPAL COMPANIES to discover how the beautiful gems are mined. Then, enjoy a unique lunch experience on board a HISTORIC TRAMCAR restaurant as it winds its way through the streets of Melbourne. Tonight’s optional excursion to see the world-famous penguin parade is highly recommended. (B,L)
Enjoy a full day for you to explore on your own. Perhaps join our optional tour on the Great Ocean Road. (B)
Today we fly to the Outback. Here, visit the historic OLD TELEGRAPH STATION to discover how the locals live in this remote area and the history of how the early settlers developed communications. On to Anzac Hill, a tribute to Australia and New Zealand’s war heroes. Then, visit the ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE to appreciate how medical service is provided to those living in remote regions. A highlight of your day is the opportunity to ride a camel, the transport of the desert, at the CAMEL FARM. This evening, enjoy a truly unique Aussie experience, an OUTBACK BARBEQUE that features a meal of typical campfire fare, fascinating tales of the Outback, and Aboriginal folklore. (B,D)
Today, experience an ABORIGINAL DREAMTIME TOUR and learn more about this important native culture from your Local Guide. Later, fly to “The Center of Australia.” Travel past Uluru (Ayers Rock) to the magnificent KATA TJUTA (THE OLGAS), some 30 brilliant monoliths. There is time for a walk to the Olga Gorge before returning to “Sunset Strip” for a drink and the changing colors of the Rock. (B)
This morning your Outback adventure continues as you enjoy a TOUR around the base of Uluru, learning of its significance in Aboriginal “Dreamtime” mythology. For an even more amazing view of Ayers Rock, perhaps take an optional aircraft ride. Later, fly to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Tonight, a unique dinner event at TJAPUKAI ABORIGINAL CULTURAL PARK for an interactive, entertaining portrayal of the culture, dance, and folklore of this indigenous tribe. (B,D)
Great Barrier Reef Excursion. Board a fast catamaran for a CRUISE to Green Island, one of the many tropical islands on Australia’s famous Great Barrier Reef. Here you can choose to snorkel, take a GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOUR, or walk through the island’s cool rainforest. This afternoon, your Tour Director can assist you with a variety of optional activities, including crocodile spotting. (B)
A full day at leisure in this tropical paradise. For a truly amazing experience, consider our optional trip to Kuranda via the old scenic rail route. See magnificent scenery from the comfort of a restored, historic mountain train. For the return journey, you may choose to take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. (B)
Fly to Australia’s largest city, Sydney. (B)
Explore one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Visit the OPERA HOUSE for a guided tour of its interior and theaters. A highlight is a stop at the world famous TARONGA ZOO, where a Local Guide will introduce you to Australia’s unique fauna, including kangaroos, koalas, wombats, dingoes, and the famous Tasmanian Devil. Travel to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, located in the city’s BOTANICAL GARDENS, for a great photo opportunity offering sweeping views of the harbor, Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. Feel like a local while touring the world-famous BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB and enjoy a lifesaving demonstration! See some of the city’s original suburbs and the historic Rocks area, home to Sydney’s original convicts. For a truly memorable experience, enjoy a scenic CRUISE on Sydney Harbour. (B)
Enjoy a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. Perhaps join our optional excursion to the Blue Mountains for a wilderness experience, or an excursion to the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s leading wine-growing regions. You can even climb to the top of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge! The choice is yours, and your Tour Director will have suggestions to help you make the most of this exciting city. This evening your Tour Director hosts a special FAREWELL DINNER at a waterfront restaurant overlooking Sydney Harbour, Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. (B,D)
Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
Also available:
Board your transpacific flight and skip a day as you cross the International Date Line on your way Down Under for the adventure of a lifetime.
G’day and welcome to Australia! Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special WELCOME DINNER. (D)
Great Barrier Reef Cruise. Board a fast catamaran for a CRUISE to Green Island, one of the many tropical islands on Australia’s famous Great Barrier Reef. Here you can choose to snorkel, take a GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOUR, or walk through the island’s cool rainforest. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. You may want to join the optional tour to Tjapukai Aboriginal Park this evening. (B,L)
Today we fly to the Outback. Visit the historic OLD TELEGRAPH STATION to discover how the locals live in this remote area and to learn about the history of the early settlers who explored the region and developed communication. On to Anzac Hill, a tribute to Australia’s and New Zealand’s war heroes. Then visit the ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE to appreciate how medical service is provided to those living in remote regions. A highlight of your day is the opportunity to ride a camel, the transport of the desert, at the CAMEL FARM. This evening, enjoy a truly unique Aussie experience, an OUTBACK BARBEQUE that features a meal of typical campfire fare, fascinating tales of the Outback, and Aboriginal folklore. (B,D)
Today, experience an ABORIGINAL “DREAMTIME” TOUR and learn more about this important native culture from your Local Guide. Later, fly farther into the Outback to “The Centre of Australia.” In the afternoon, travel out past Uluru (Ayers Rock) to the magnificent KATA TJUTA (THE OLGAS), a geological splendor of some 30 brilliant monoliths. There is time for a walk to Olga Gorge before returning to “Sunset Strip” to stop for a drink in the Outback as you witness the changing colors of the Rock. This evening, consider dining under the stars among the desert dunes at the famous “Sounds of Silence.” (B)
This morning your Outback adventure continues as you enjoy a TOUR around the base of Uluru, learning of its significance in Aboriginal “Dreamtime” mythology. For an even more amazing view of Ayers Rock, perhaps take an optional aircraft ride. Later on, leave the Outback and fly to Australia’s largest city, Sydney. (B)
This morning, explore one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Sightseeing includes a SYDNEY HARBOUR CRUISE that highlights the natural wonder of this magnificent bustling waterway, and explore the SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE on a guided tour of its amazing interior and theaters. Travel to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, located on the edge of the city’s BOTANICAL GARDENS, for a great photo opportunity offering sweeping views of the harbor, Sydney Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. Feel like a local while touring inside the world-famous BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB and enjoy a lifesaving demonstration! See some of the city’s original suburbs and the historic Rocks area, home to Sydney’s original convicts. Stop at one of the country’s leading OPAL COMPANIES to discover how the beautiful gems are mined. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special FAREWELL DINNER at a waterfront restaurant overlooking Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. (B,D)
Most of today is free for your own exploration. This afternoon, transfer to the harbor and say goodbye to your Tour Director as you embark your Holland America cruise ship. (B,D)
Take advantage of the onboard activities and facilities. (B,L,D)
Explore the Victorian city of Melbourne. A selection of optional shore excursions is available including a city tour and a wildlife park where you will see koalas and kangaroos, followed by wine tasting in the Yarra Valley. (B,L,D)
Enjoy the day in “Tassie.” Perhaps take an optional shore excursion to Cradle Mountain National Park or a local wildlife park to see famed Tasmanian Devils. (B,L,D)
Today, cruise on stunning Milford Sound in FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world as you are surrounded by sheer rock walls and majestic waterfalls. (B,L,D)
Take in the Scottish influences and heritage in Dunedin. Choose from a list of optional shore excursions including a sightseeing tour, a wildlife cruise to see penguins, and a ride on the scenic Taieri Gorge Railway. (B,L,D)
Enjoy a day in the “Garden City” with its old stone buildings and the charming Avon River. Take an optional tour of the city or visit the International Antarctic Centre depicting life on the frozen continent. (B,L,D) NOTE: On the 0111 departure the port of call will be Timaru, New Zealand, south of Christchurch.
Enjoy time in Picton, the gateway to Marlborough, the largest wineproducing region in New Zealand. Take an optional tour that visits several wineries and taste some of the finest wine the “Kiwi” have to offer! (B,L,D)
Spend the day in the capital of New Zealand. Perhaps take an optional city tour or join a knowledgeable guide as you visit some of the sites where they filmed the Lord of the Rings trilogy. (B,L,D)
Spend the morning in Napier, where the main street displays some of the best Art Deco architecture in the world. (B,L,D)
Spend the day in the port tow
