Day 1: Canada – Night on board
It’s time for an adventure down under! Pack your bags and head to your departure airport, ready for a flight to Sydney. Night on board.

Day 2: Continue your journey to Sydney
Continue your journey to Sydney. Due to the time difference, you will lose a day on your outward journey, but will gain it back on your return. You are not in-flight for two days.

Day 3: Sydney
Land in Sydney, pass through customs, and transfer independently* to the hotel. Take the rest of the day to rest and get to know your new surroundings. Sydney is Australia’s largest city, known for the sunny disposition of its locals and its urban beaches like Bond and Manly. The stunning harbor provides a dramatic backdrop for the city’s famous icons, like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Here, you can find a wide-ranging cultural life, a dynamic food scene and vibrant cityscape of outstanding contemporary architecture.

Day 4: Sydney
Wake up in Sydney. There’s no better way to discover the city than on foot, so begin the day with a walking tour of The Rocks district. Hear the city’s story as you stroll along the shoreline of sparkling Sydney Harbour with views of the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, past Campbell’s Cove and Cadman’s Cottage. The Rocks is renowned for having the oldest streets in Sydney, which are dotted with beautifully restored nineteenth-century buildings. Wander down hidden alleyways, into shady courtyards, and along cobbled lanes. Discover the nooks and crannies and get up close and personal with the living history of Australia’s first British settlement.
The afternoon is free to spend as you please in Sydney. Why not get a closer look at one of Sydney’s major landmarks with an optional tour of the Sydney Opera House?* Overnight in Sydney.

*Optional Sydney Opera House tour: Discover insider secrets of the Opera House and step inside the iconic theaters that bring over 2000 performances to life each year. Explore the building and learn about how Jørn Utzon’s vision for the design of the Opera House came into existence against impossible odds.

Day 5: Sydney
Wake up in Sydney. Enjoy the day at your leisure, taking full advantage of your last 24 hours in the city. Sample Sydney’s famed coffeeshops, stroll along the beach, or visit museums, it’s up to you! If you aren’t sure what to do, we suggest an optional Panoramic city sights excursion* to get a full picture of what Sydney has to offer. If Australia’s nature piques your interest, you could also choose the optional excursion to the Blue Mountains National Park** outside the city. After your afternoon, head back to the hotel. Overnight in Sydney.

*Optional Panoramic city sights excursion: See the essentials of Greater Sydney in this bus tour. Start in the CBD, then marvel at 18th-century sandstone architecture such as the Parliament House. Head to Mrs. Macquaries Point to enjoy magnificent views and continue through Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs, home to the rich and famous. Pass through areas such as Kings Cross before arriving at Watsons Bay. Travel on to famous Bondi Beach and see Aussie surfers riding the waves. Continue to Tamarama and Bronte beaches before returning to the city via Paddington, a trendy district with elegant shops. End in Darling Harbour.

**Optional Blue Mountains excursion: The Blue Mountains National Park is one of seven national parks that make up the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. This wonderland of sandstone outcrops, deep ravines and hazy blue eucalypt forests boasts stunning scenery. Go off the beaten track with an expert guide to visit remote viewpoints and discuss the history, flora, and fauna of this magnificent region.

Important note: These optional activities take place simultaneously and cannot be combined.

Day 6: Sydney – Brisbane
Self-transfer to the airport for an internal flight to Brisbane. The third-largest city in Oceania and the capital of Queensland, Brisbane is well-known for its diversity, parks, and botanical gardens.
Upon arrival, head straight for the hotel to check-in and spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Rest after the flight or head out on foot to begin exploring the city! Overnight stay in Brisbane.

Day 7: Brisbane
Head out for a full day of activities in Brisbane, beginning with a self-transfer to the prearranged meeting point. You’ll begin with a tranquil cruise along the Brisbane River. Enjoy informative commentary from your captain as you glide along Brisbane’s waterfront, passing from the bustle of the city’s skyscrapers to leafy suburbs with waterside mansions.
The cruise will drop you off at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, a Brisbane must-see for over 70 years. This is both the biggest and the oldest koala sanctuary in the world! You’ll have three hours to explore the expansive terrain, get up close and feed the animals—it’s a special opportunity to observe kangaroos, wallabies, and even the shy platypus, all of which are native to Australia. Enjoy an included picnic lunch at the sanctuary before self-transferring back to central Brisbane. Overnight stay in Brisbane.

Day 8: Brisbane
Today is a free day to explore Brisbane as you see fit. The possibilities are endless–check out the city’s Chinatown, head to the Queensland Museum, or visit the Kangaroo Point Cliffs just across the river from the CBD! One way to get out of the city for the day is our optional excursion to Moreton Island.* No matter what you choose, make sure you get some rest and prepare to travel tomorrow! Overnight stay in Brisbane.

*Optional excursion to Moreton Island: Located just off the mainland in the Moreton Bay, this island is mostly occupied by a National Park and offers numerous outdoor activities to enjoy! Convene at the prearranged meeting point and head straight for the island in the morning. Enjoy sand-tobogganing, snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, and more along with a picnic lunch.

Day 9: Brisbane – Cairns
Wake up in Brisbane, prepared for an internal flight to Cairns. Located in the far north of Queensland, Cairns is a tropical city and a center for tourism in the region’s spectacular nature. The city offers easy access to the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
After landing, self-transfer to the hotel and take the rest of the day to discover this exciting city independently. Swim at the Esplanade lagoon, sample local produce at a farmer’s market, shop for a summer wardrobe, or cruise around the marina. It’s up to you! Overnight in Cairns.

Day 10: Cairns
Wake up in Cairns. Today is your free day to explore–time to experience all the wonderful nature that the region offers. If you’re hoping to see one of Cairns’ most iconic sights, now is your chance–join our optional full day excursion to the Great Barrier Reef!*
Head back to the hotel and rest up before an included dinner at Ochre, a local restaurant offering Australian specialties on the boardwalk with beautiful views of the harbor. Overnight in Cairns.
Important note: The restaurant specializes in grilled Australian meats, which will be the centerpiece of the meal. Vegetarian guests are advised to let their guide know in advance so that sufficient options are made available.

*Optional Great Barrier Reef excursion: Experience one of Australia’s most significant natural landmarks, visible from space and the single largest living structure of organisms on Earth. See this Wonder of the World in a fun activity for all ages, whether you swim or not! Spend the day out along the reef on an elevated platform that offers unparalleled views. Snorkel, dive, visit the underwater observatory, cruise in a semi-sub, or just relax on the sundeck with a delicious buffet lunch.

Day 11: Cairns
Wake up in Cairns. Enjoy another day at your leisure to cross more fun activities off your list. If you’re most excited about seeing the Daintree Rainforest, you could sign up for an optional excursion led by an experienced guide* and see far more than a typical tourist. Return to the hotel in the afternoon and pack for tomorrow’s flight to Melbourne. Overnight in Cairns.

*Optional Daintree Rainforest excursion: Take the scenic route to Cape Tribulation within the Daintree National Park. Ascend the Alexandra Range and pause for a panoramic view of rainforest merging with the Coral Sea. Experience the rainforest up-close on the elevated National Park Boardwalk. Go beyond Cape Tribulation to pristine Emmagen Creek, with time for a refreshing rainforest swim. Look for exotic birds in the trees and indulge in the tropical fruit of these tranquil surroundings. After a short afternoon refreshment stop, cross the Daintree River by cable ferry and return to the hotel.

Day 12: Cairns – Melbourne
Wake up in Cairns and self-transfer to the airport for your flight to Melbourne! Lauded for its sense of style and elegance, Melbourne boasts glamorous festivals and events, Australia’s best shopping, a lively passion for fine dining, and a flourishing interest in the arts. Restored and preserved nineteenth-century architecture, built following the discovery of gold, provides a heady reminder of a prosperous age, while beautifully tended parks and gardens present a therapeutic respite from the pace of city life.
Take the rest of the day at your leisure to rest or explore. Overnight in Melbourne

Day 13: Melbourne
Wake up in Melbourne. Today, experience a guided tour of the city. Melbourne is a city of contrasts, world-famous sporting arenas, and historic gardens. Be dazzled by the wondrous sights of Australia’s most vibrant city and learn about Melbourne’s fascinating history, explore its bustling art and cafe scene, as well as plenty of other cultural highlights with your expert guide.
You are once again free in the afternoon to explore Melbourne as you see fit. Overnight in Melbourne.

Day 14: Melbourne
Wake up in Melbourne. Today is your final full day here, so be sure to take advantage! This is your last chance to go on an excursion in Australia. Today there are two options on offer, both of which cater to those seeking one last look at the stunning Australian natural scenery. For those who want stunning views and a stop at a rock formation known as the “12 Apostles,” why not go on a coastal drive with the optional Ocean Road experience?* If you want to get to know the local wildlife, and see it up close, head to Phillip Island** and see a koala reserve and “penguin parade” before heading back to the mainland. Overnight in Melbourne.

*Optional Ocean Road Experience: The Great Ocean Road tour is one of the world’s most spectacular coastal drives! Leaving Melbourne, pass Anglesea before enjoying morning tea on the beautiful beach. See the abundance of Australian wildlife, including cuddly koalas, and check out the magnificent surf spots. Walk in the ancient rainforest before arriving in the afternoon to see the gigantic limestone stacks known as the “12 Apostles” in Port Campbell National Park.

**Optional Phillip Island Experience: Stop at the Phillip Island Koala Conservation Reserve and make some new friends as you stroll on boardwalk trails. Experience views of an Australian fur seal colony and spot wild wallabies and native birds on a back-road journey to the main event. The Penguin Parade Visitor Centre at Summerland Beach is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating ecotourism attractions in the world, offering the opportunity to learn about the conservation of wildlife. At sunset, witness some of the world’s tiniest penguins coming ashore as they emerge from the sea. It’s truly unforgettable!

Important note: these optional activities take place simultaneously and cannot be combined.

Day 15: Night on board
It’s time to bid farewell to Australia after an unforgettable journey of a lifetime. At the indicated time, self-transfer to the airport to catch a flight back to Canada.

Optional Tours

(Price is per person, based on double occupancy)

Day 4: Sydney Opera House Guided Tour
Price: from $53 per person
(There are various departures per day, and will be provided accordingly if there is an activity on the same day.)
See inside one of Sydney’s most iconic buildings, learning more about the history behind the design and construction of a modern landmark.

Day 5: Half-day Panoramic Sydney Sights Excursion
Price: from $168 per person
Cross all of Sydney and its suburbs, stopping at the highlights on this comprehensive bus tour that includes the CBD, Bondi Beach, Paddington, & more!
What’s included: Pick up and drop off to the hotel and morning tea.

Day 5: Full Day Blue Mountains Tour
Price: from $389 per person
(The itinerary may change slightly depending on weather conditions.)
Visit the Blue Mountains National Park, enjoying stunning views over the eucalyptus forests that give the area its characteristic azure tinge.
What’s included: Hotel pick up and drop off, Calmsley Hill Admission, morning tea refreshments, 2 course lunch without drinks, national park fees, Glass of Sparkling Wine & Blue Mountains Botanic Garden visit.

Day 8: Full Day Excursion to Moreton Island
Price: TBA
(Pick up and drop off will take place at the ex Brisbane Coach Terminal.)
Head to Moreton Island for some of the best activities and scenery Australia has to offer. Try sand tobogganing, snorkeling, swimming, and transparent kayaking over shipwrecks–or just lay down and relax on the beach!
What’s included: All activities, supplies & a picnic lunch.
Not included: Transfers from or to the hotel.

Day 10: Full Day Great Barrier Reef Adventure
Price: from $379 per person
(Tour departs from Reef Fleet terminal. Passengers must check-in at the Great Adventures counter for boarding passes before boarding vessel. Boarding is 30 minutes prior to departure time)
Spend a day floating among the Great Barrier Reef, experiencing one of Australia’s most special natural wonders. Go swimming, snorkeling, or just relax with a delicious lunch.
What’s included: Snorkel set, underwater observatory, semi submarine boat tour.
Not included: Transfers, lunch and beverages.

Day 11: Full-Day Cape Tribulation & Daintree Excursion
Price: from $264 per person
(There is no swimming at Cape Tribulation Beach due to hazardous conditions)
Meet your guide and head outside the city through lush famland and coastal cliffs towards the Daintree Rainforest. See this World Heritage Site close-up and then take a 4WD to Emmagren Creek. End with time to stroll along Cape Tribulation Beach.
What’s included: Transfers from Cairns hotel, 1 hour Daintree River Cruise, guided walk, local eco-accredited drive-guide, home-made exotic fruit ice-cream.
Not included: Lunch and travel insurance.

Day 14: Great Ocean Road Experience
Price: from $176 per person
Take a drive down one of the world’s great coastal highways, taking in cliffside views over the ocean. Stop and see the gigantic limestone stacks known as the “12 Apostles” in Port Campbell National Park.

Day 14: Full day Phillip Island Tour
Price: from $194 per person
Get up close and personal with Australian wildlife on Phillip Island, visiting a koala reserve, observing fur seals, and seeing penguins in their natural habitat.

 

 

• Entry requirements
  • Valid passport with at least six months validity and a return ticket.
  • An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) must be obtained online before travelling: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder/visit