Get the most of Australia's East Coast with this tour to explore and relax. Take in the crystal clear waters and the lush tropical settings of this magnificent island. Ride the Captain Cook Highway with rainforest on one side and the Great Barrier Reef on the other, it's not your typical road trip. You'll make friends for life as you explore Down Under with this Contiki Australia travel package.
| Length: | 10 days |
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| Accommodations: | Yacht, Resort as per itinerary
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| Meals: | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast as per itinerary
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| Sightseeing: | East Coast, including Whitsunday Islands, Cape Tribulation & Cairns |
| Transportation: | Modern, air-conditioned coach |
Depart for AustraliaFly over the international date line on your way to Australia.
Whitsundays SailingYour sailing adventure commences with check in at the Pro Sail office, Shop 1, 4 The Esplanade, Airlie Beach from 3.00pm. Enjoy two nights sailing the stunning Whitsunday islands with your friends. Swim, snorkel, or laze your way around the 74 islands of this tropical paradise, where you will past the lush tropical islands, snorkel or dive the many spectacular coral reefs, laze on the world's best beaches and personally meet an extravagant array of sea life. You can help the crew & learn how to grind the winches & hoist the sails, and try your hand at or just relax and top up your tan in the sun. Please note: Accommodation on board the yacht is multishare only.
The Whitsundays to CairnsAfter a ferry back to the mainland, we head deeper into the tropics of Australia today when we hit Townsville for some free time. Check out the colonial buildings and get a feel for its maritime past as we drive along the esplanade and into town where you can grab some lunch. See vistas over Magnetic Island, a National Park and bird sanctuary, before we continue our travels up north. Back on the road, we cruise past waterfalls, waterholes, fruit plantations and thick, tropical rainforests into Tully, home to some of Australia’s best white-water rafting. Then it’s on to the popular traveller’s hub of Cairns. With a colourful tropical setting, vibrant restaurant scene and happening nightlife, this gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and rainforests is one of Australia’s hottest destinations. In your free time on the first night in Cairns, walk around the buzzing night markets. It’s the perfect place for shopping and with everything from fun, kitsch treasures to local crafts like boomerangs and didgeridoos.
CairnsWake up to the warm waters of Cairns where there’s something for everyone. This is your chance to experience the Great Barrier Reef on an optional day trip. If you have always wanted to go scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef then this is your chance! There are scuba diving options for both certified and introductory divers (no experience necessary). Check out the amazing World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, you are sure to see one of Nemo's cousins, tiny schooling fish right up to giant Maori wrasse and if you're lucky, even a small reef shark! There are local marine biologists on board to answer 'which fish is that?' Tonight you have the opportunity to try kangaroo fillets, amongst other delicious Australian delicacies during your included dinner at one of Cairns' most awarded restaurants. On day 2, for those who are keen for a fun and thrilling ride on the rapids of the Tully River, join our optional whitewater rafting adventure activity with our professional Local Guides. There are loads more activities available in Cairns like hot air ballooning, sky diving and bungy jumping – just ask your Tour Manager for some more info. Catch up with your new buddies to swap stories on your day at a local hot spot. The food and entertainment is sure to leave a lasting impression!
Cairns to Cape TribulationWe hit the road sticking to the coast, we follow the Coral Sea past remote beaches and gorgeous scenery to the lush, tropical Daintree Rainforest. Get back to nature as we walk through this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and head to a stunningly clear swimming-hole in Mossman Gorge, where you can cool off in the waters. Heading further north to Cape Tribulation, you have the option to go jungle surfing on zip lines through the rainforest canopy or you can chill out in the resort pool & work on your tan. We overnight in Cape Tribulation.
Cape Tribulation to CairnsWe check out Cape Tribulation beach & go for a guided walk through the mangroves, before we hit the road and travel to Port Douglas. Known for its idyllic white sands and palms trees, this resort town attracts both the rich & famous and travellers. You’ll soon see why. Later this afternoon we arrive back in Cairns.
Finish CairnsSay a final farewell to your new friends as your trip ends this morning.
All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour price!