Discover the Lands Down Under
Day 1 – G’day, Sydney!
Check in to the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel Sydney.
Day 2 – Sydney Awaits!
Your guide, an enthusiastic Sydney resident, awaits this morning to show you the city they love! The landmarks are many and you’ll see them all, from Kings Cross to Bondi Beach. Sit a while in Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair and take in the magnificent view of the Harbour Bridge and iconic Opera House  . Later this evening, stroll down to Circular Quay for a romantic sunset dinner cruise through the harbor. Meals B,D
Day 3 – A Bird’s Eye View of Sydney
Riveting stories of passion, betrayal and redemption play out across its stage... This morning’s special tour of the Sydney Opera House reveals the equally engrossing drama of its design and eventual completion against impossible odds. Then take to the skies for an unforgettable seaplane excursion over Bondi Beach, Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Meals B
Day 4 – Australia’s Amazing Wildlife!
From cartoons to stuffed animals, Australian wildlife is well known! Today’s visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park reveals the fascinating truth behind these beloved creatures, from the Tasmanian devil and wallabies to kangaroos and Fairy penguins. See crocodiles in their natural habitat and ‘Cuddle a Koala!’ The Sydney Aquarium is the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Marvel at more than 5,000 creatures including species from the tropical Great Barrier Reef and the icy waters of Antarctica! Meals B
Day 5 – Into the Outback
Fly deep into the Outback and transfer to your spectacular resort, Sails in the Desert Then discover the Olgas, 36 rock domes rising dramatically above the desert landscape. Explore Olga Gorge and be awed by these spectacular rock formations, so important in the local mythology. It’s Uluru to the Aborigines. Many know it as Ayers Rock . You arrive here in time to watch its spectacular color changes as the sun dips toward the horizon. Sunset finds you deep in the desert for our specially arranged Sounds of Silence Dinner. Canapés and sparkling wine are served as the tones of the didgeridoo echo across the darkening landscape. As the endless desert stars come out, you’ll enjoy our gourmet Outback Barbecue accompanied by fine Australian wines. Then our astronomer will share stories of the Southern skies while you relax with coffee, tea and fine port. Meals B,D
Day 6 – From Ayers Rock to Cairns
You witnessed its dramatic late afternoon color shifts yesterday… This morning finds you gazing anew upon Uluru, feeling perhaps that it’s your first time to stand before this endlessly captivating monolith. Walk around the Mutitjulu Waterhole to view Aboriginal rock art and return to your hotel to freshen up. Then fly to the tropical resort of Cairns and transfer to The Sebel Hotel. Meals B
Day 7 – Out to the Great Barrier Reef
Unforgettable thrills unfold on your full day excursion out to the Great Barrier Reef, where a tranquil lagoon promises spectacular snorkeling and swimming. If you prefer to stay dry, explore the colorful undersea world from our semi-submersible vessel or the underwater observatory. A hearty smorgasbord lunch and engaging shipboard Marine Biologists make for a perfect day! Meals B,L
Day 8 – Discover the Kuranda Rainforest
Explore this pristine coastal rainforest from a variety of unique perspectives... By amphibious craft, on the SkyRail high above the jungle canopy, and deep into the cool enchantment of the forest with an experienced Ranger. Gain insight into Aboriginal history and mythology on a special Dreamtime Walk and watch native dancers perform. Try your expertise at spear and boomerang throwing; it’s a great way to work off a few calories from today’s delicious barbecue lunch! Meals B,L
Day 9 – At Leisure in Cairns
Spend the day exploring and relaxing at your own pace in this tropical paradise. This evening, enjoy a delightful dinner on the waterfront at Dundee’s Restaurant. Meals B,D
Day 10 – From Cairns to Christchurch, New Zealand
Upon arrival in Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island, you’ll be warmly greeted and escorted to the luxurious Millennium Hotel, where your superior guestroom overlooks the Cathedral. This evening, take to the streets aboard the historic Christchurch Tram. Enjoy a welcome drink, lively camaraderie and a delightful 4-course dinner as you circle the city. Meals B,D
Day 11 – Discover the ‘Garden City’
With its many lovely gardens, a fine Anglican Cathedral and handsome Gothic architecture, there’s a very English ambience to Christchurch. Your sightseeing tour explores the city and visits the International Antarctic Center. Home to research teams from the USA, New Zealand and Italy, this science-based visitor center promises a powerful and interactive experience of the icy continent. Meals B
Day 12 – Spectacular Mt. Cook
Journey across the picturesque Canterbury Plains to spectacular Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Learn about the amazing life and daring mountain-climbing expeditions of one of the world’s greatest explorers at the Sir Edmund Hilary Alpine Center. Your leisurely visit includes complimentary access to the Planetarium and a state-of-the-art theater featuring breathtaking 3D movies. This evening’s buffet dinner features international and traditional New Zealand cuisine. Afterward, retreat to your premium Mountain View room at the inviting Hermitage Hotel Mt. Cook. Meals B,D
Day 13 – Onward to Queenstown
Your journey through the spectacular Alpine landscapes of the South Island brings you to Gibbston Valley, a tranquil region celebrated for its premium wines. Tour a wine cave and sample fine local vintages before continuing on to your hotel, the lakefront Crowne Plaza Queenstown Hotel. Meals B
Day 14 – The Magnificent Southern Alps
The region around Queenstown is steeped in history from the gold rush days of the late 1800’s. Step into this colorful and exciting era with a visit to Arrowtown founded in the heady days when fortunes were made! Then step aboard theTSS Earnslaw, a vintage turn-of-the century steamer. Sail across the placid blue waters of Lake Wakatipu to the Walter Peak High Country Farm for a memorable barbecue at lake’s edge. After lunch, there’s time to stroll the gardens and learn about high country farming here on this beautiful homestead. See highly-trained sheep dogs in action and learn about the shearing and spinning of high quality wool, one of New Zealand’s most famous exports. Return to Queenstown aboard the TSS Earnslaw and enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure. Meals B,L
Day 15 – Excursion to Milford Sound
Skirt the shores of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by breathtaking mountain peaks, and journey into Fiordland National Park for an unforgettable cruise through Milford Sound. Lunch will be served onboard as you thrill to some of the most stunning scenery in the Southern Hemisphere… a land of lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, glacier-carved inlets and an occasional sunbathing seal! Back in Queenstown, the rest of your evening is free. Meals B,L
Day 11 – Discover the ‘Garden City’
With its many lovely gardens, a fine Anglican Cathedral and handsome Gothic architecture, there’s a very English ambience to Christchurch. Your sightseeing tour explores the city and visits the International Antarctic Center. Home to research teams from the USA, New Zealand and Italy, this science-based visitor center promises a powerful and interactive experience of the icy continent. Meals B
Day 16 – Fly to the North Island
You’ll be escorted to the airport for your included flight to Auckland. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to the city-center Crowne Plaza Hotel. Meals B
Day 17 – Getting to Know Auckland
Auckland is a most extraordinary city comprised of islands, harbors and volcanic cones! This morning’s ferry ride is the perfect way to appreciate this captivating landscape of sea, mountains and sky. Your destination is Davenport, a historical maritime village nestled on Auckland’s North Shore, where beaches, Colonial architecture and spectacular views await. Enjoy a hearty lunch of traditional New Zealand fare at McHugh’s of Cheltenham. Continue on the West Coast, famed for its black sand beaches of iron ore. Then join your guide for a bush walk and visit a winery to sample their finest vintages. Tonight, we’ll take you to the top of the Sky Tower Observatory for a farewell dinner overlooking the twinkling city and harbor lights of Auckland. Meals B,L,D
Day 18 – Farewell to Auckland
Your tour program ends this morning. Meals B
| 
