Day 1 and 2: Depart from Home
Board your overnight flight for your trip to Australia and New Zealand. Crossing the International Date Line, you lose a full day.
Day 3: Cairns (Northern Beaches), Australia - Tour Begins
Your tour begins in the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the northern beaches of Queensland. Tonight, enjoy a special welcome dinner with your new mates. (D) . Stay at the Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns.
Day 4: Cairns
This morning you board the Skyrail Rain Forest Cableway for an unforgettable ride above the rain forest canopy. There are two stops where you may get off the cableway and experience the forest floor from the safety and comfort of boardwalks. Return to Palm Cove for an evening at leisure to enjoy your tropical surroundings. (B)
Day 5: Great Barrier Reef
Board a high speed catamaran for an exciting excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. From your base on Green Island, you are able to explore the reef. Enjoy a trip on a glass bottom boat where beautifully colored fish swim by in their natural habitat, stroll the walking trail to take in the rain forest, or watch the fish and sea turtles swim past from the pier. For a more adventurous encounter with the reef, optional scuba diving, snorkeling and an outer reef tour are also available. (B, L)
Day 6: Cairns - Ayers Rock
Fly to the heart of the Outback, arriving at Ayers Rock. Tour the sandstone domes of the Olgas and the area around the base of "the Rock." Later, witness a stunning sunset as the colors of the Rock change dramatically. (B) Stay at the Desert Gardens Hotel.
Day 7: Ayers Rock - Alice Springs
This morning you depart for Alice Springs, located in the heart of the Australian Outback. A sightseeing tour of the area includes the Old Telegraph Station and Anzac Hill. Gain insight into the educational system in the Outback with a visit to the School of the Air - you may even see a class in session! A special experience is in store for you this afternoon as you will have the opportunity to meet the young Aboriginal group, Drum Atweme. Supported by the Collette Foundation, Drum Atweme is a musical group comprised of at-risk youth from the local community. Tonight, enjoy dining and entertainment with a traditional dinner in the bush. You'll experience Outback hospitality and entertainment under the Southern Hemisphere's stars. (D) . Stay at the Crowne Plaza Alice Springs.
Day 8: Alice Springs - Darwin - Kakadu National Park
Begin your day with a Dreamtime Tour. Experience the culture of the Australian Aborigines and learn about their ancient culture, folklore, customs and the concept of the Dreamtime. You will even have the opportunity to try some of their traditional food. Later, board your flight to the northern tip of Australia and the city of Darwin. You then drive into the heart of Kakadu National Park. (B,D). Stay at the Holiday Inn Gagudju Crocodile.
Day 9: Kakadu National Park
Today you experience the beauty and culture found in Kakadu National Park, home to wallaroos and wallabies, monitors and lizards, birds of every imaginable color, and crocodiles. See ancient Aboriginal rock art at Nourlangie Rock and enjoy an audio-visual show at the Visitors Center. During your afternoon Yellow Waters cruise you may see crocodiles as they bask in the sun, as well as waterfowl such as jabiru, egrets, herons and eagles. (B,D)
Day 10: Kakadu National Park - Darwin - Melbourne
Fly to the beautiful Victorian city of Melbourne. Enjoy a city tour viewing Fitzroy Gardens, the Shrine of Remembrance and Parliament House. (B) Stay at the Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne.
Day 11: Melbourne
Your morning is at leisure to explore Melbourne on your own. You may visit the elegant parks and gardens in this friendly city, take a ride on one of the streetcars, or enjoy lunch at an outdoor café in the quaint Italian neighborhood of Carlton. This afternoon you will visit Phillip Island, a renowned nature reserve and home of the world's largest colony of Little Penguins. The Little Penguin is protected on Phillip Island and rangers diligently study them. View the Little Penguin Parade as hundreds of them waddle out of the sea and cross the beach to their burrows in the dunes. You will also visit the interpretation center where you will learn about the life of the Little Penguins and their significance to the area. Dinner is included at a favorite Phillip Island restaurant. (B,D)
Day 12: Melbourne - Hobart
Fly today to Tasmania, arriving in the city of Hobart, Australia's second oldest city. Your senses are sure to be refreshed as the rugged and pristine beauty of Tasmania unfolds as you transfer to your hotel. (B,D). Stay at the Mercure Hotel Hobart
Day 13: Hobart
Take a guided tour of the Port Arthur Historic Site. This fascinating site is the best-preserved example of Australia's penal colonies. Dating back to 1833, the site features a large number of stabilized ruins and restored buildings. Visit the interpretive center for a glimpse into the daily lives of the convicts. Later, witness the spectacular coastal rock formations known as Tasman Arch, Devil's Kitchen and the Blow Hole. Of course, no visit to Tasmania would be complete without the chance to view a Tasmanian Devil! Learn about this great creature and their plight for survival and the great efforts to save them from extinction. (B)
Day 14: Hobart - Sydney
Head back to mainland Australia today and arrive in Sydney. Stay at the Novotel Rockford Darling Harbour.
Day 15: Sydney
Tour the amazing city of Sydney today. Highlights include Kings Cross, the Harbour Bridge, Chinatown, the Rocks, Circular Quay, the Botanic Gardens, and the fashionable suburb of Paddington. Discover one of the world's greatest architectural works as you take a guided tour through the Sydney Opera House. Dinner is included at one of Sydney's revolving restaurants, offering spectacular views of the city. (B,D)
Day 16: Sydney
This morning, visit Sydney Wildlife World which showcases Australia's fascinating flora and fauna with three floors of exhibits. Within its walls, over 6,000 native animals are protected. Walk amongst the wallabies and birds when you experience Sydney Wildlife World's new interactive walk-through. Visit the koala sanctuary where you can see Australia's most famous animal species in its natural habitat. If you want to, you can even pet one! Next, enjoy a unique opportunity to learn first-hand about opals during a special presentation at the National Opal Collection, one of Australia's top jewelry companies. An amazing evening begins with a sail on Sydney Harbour's glistening waters during a dinner cruise offering spectacular views of Sydney's greatest icons - the Harbour Bridge and world-famous Opera House. (B,D)
Day 17: Sydney - Queenstown, New Zealand
Travel to New Zealand, arriving in the gorgeous town of Queenstown.. Stay at the Mercure Resort Queenstown.
Day 18: Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown
Journey through beech forest into the rugged grandeur of the Hollyford Valley via the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Enjoy a fascinating cruise of Milford Sound, cruising this spectacular fjord with its breathtaking vistas at every turn. Following your cruise, you return to Queenstown. You may choose to return via a short optional flight (weather permitting) for spectacular views of New Zealand's Southern Alps. (B,L)
Day 19: Queenstown
Your day is at leisure in this charming village. You may take an optional jet boat ride on the Shotover River, or take an optional 'Safari of the Rings' adventure into the spectacular landscape. Dinner is included at the Skyline Restaurant overlooking Queenstown, the Remarkable Mountains, and Lake Wakatipu. (B,D)
Day 20: Queenstown - Mt. Cook National Park
Traveling through the picturesque countryside, a stop is made in the old boomtown of Arrowtown, which is thriving with the history of the 1800's gold rush. Later, you arrive at Mt. Cook National Park where you may take nature walks or enjoy an optional flightseeing tour to the top of the rugged mountain range (weather permitting). (B,D) . Stay at the Chateau on the Park
Day 21: Mt. Cook - Christchurch
A drive through the rugged Southern Alps brings you to the beautiful English city of Christchurch, located on the Avon River, and considered to be "the most English city outside of England." Upon arrival, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Christchurch viewing magnificent gardens, the Neo-Gothic Cathedral, and the downtown park district. Driving along the Avon River, you will pass Victorian-style buildings. (B). Stay at the Chateau on the Park.
Day 22: Christchurch
Today is yours to explore the historic city of Christchurch. This afternoon you may choose to take an optional tour to the International Antarctic Center, the gateway for expeditions to Antarctica. Tonight, experience the elegance of Canterbury as you dine in a restored mansion and learn the history of the first family to settle in Christchurch. (B, D)
Day 23: Christchurch - Wellington
Traveling north along the coast you'll pass scenic river valleys and vineyards. Arriving in Picton, you will ferry to the North Island on one of the most scenic trips the world has to offer. Cruising through the Marlborough Sounds and across the Cook Strait, your final destination is Wellington, the harbour capital of New Zealand. (B). Stay at the Novotel Capitol Wellington
Day 24: Wellington
According to Maori legend, Wellington Harbour was founded in the 10th century by the Polynesian navigator Kupe and first named Te Upoko or te Iki a Maui - or "head of Maui's fish." Enjoy sightseeing in Wellington viewing the Beehive, New Zealand's Parliament, historic old St. Paul's Church, and views from atop Mt. Victoria. Later, experience Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, the national museum of New Zealand. (B)
Day 25: Wellington - Rotorua
Depart for the center of the Maori civilization and home to numerous geothermal springs, the city of Rotorua. Tonight you will enjoy a home stay and dinner with one of New Zealand's families. This is a great way to meet the Kiwis and perhaps make a lifelong friend. (B,D). Stay at the Rydges Rotorua
Day 26: Rotorua
This morning visit Te Puia, New Zealand's premier Maori cultural and geothermal experience. You'll be truly amazed by the landscape of erupting geysers, bubbling mud pools and other geothermal wonders. Here, the Maori keep their culture alive by teaching the tribal youth traditional carving, weaving and dancing. Learn about this unique culture as you partake in a demonstration about the importance of the Maori dress and the weaving process. Before leavine you will get to view the national bird - the Kiwi. A visit to the Agrodome will give you insight into how wool, one of New Zealand's premier products, is processed. You will also view a special sheep shearing demonstration. Later this afternoon, meet jade carvers and discover how jade is transformed to make beautiful jewelry. This evening you receive a traditional Maori welcome at a Hangi meal followed by a traditional performance of songs, dances and other festivities. (B, D)
Day 27: Rotorua - Auckland - to Los Angeles
Today you will leave for home. Optional: add a 2-nights stay in the exotic island of Fiji. (B)
Sightseeing Excursions. Prices for March. 2011/2012
Hot Air Ballooning Adventure (30 min) No Breakfast $215.00
City: Cairns Float over blue gum and paper bark trees and experience the wide open spaces of the Atherton Tablelands/Cairns Highlands in the beautiful early morning light in a hot air balloon. Watch in wonder as the balloons inflate and rise into the sky. Don’t forget your camera to capture dawn’s light on the lush greenery of the mountainous plain. It is not uncommon to see kangaroos or wallabies bouncing about the Queensland ground below. This option requires riding in a basket which does not have an entrance. To enter passengers will need to step up and over into the basket. This option operates on a weather permitting basis only. The 30 AUD insurance levy is included in the cost and reflected in the price of the option. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 5 hour(s).
Sunrise Flight over Uluru $215.00
City: Ayers Rock Take a flight-seeing tour over Uluru at the break of dawn and see the majestic outback in a way few have the chance to experience it. You will traverse parts of the desert that can only be reached via plane and see the desert landscape as the sun begins to come up. 45 minute flight Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 1.5 hour(s).
Take a Camel to Sunrise $119.00
City: Ayers Rock Experience the majesty of sunrise on Ayers Rock from a unique vantage point - the back of a camel! A peaceful one-hour camel ride brings you across the red sand dunes in the cool, clear morning air. Watch the sunrise over Ayers Rock bring the warm hues of the monolith alive. Appreciate why Aboriginal people consider this area, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, sacred. Skilled bush guides introduce you to the flora and fauna of this UNESCO World Heritage site and tell you a bit about the history of those who live there. Enjoy a light breakfast featuring Billy Tea, an Aussie bush favorite, and fresh baked goods after the ride. Please note: Maximum weight per person is 95 kg (210 lbs). Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 2.5 hour(s).
Outer Great Barrier Reef $140.00
City: Cairns Explore the vibrant, colorful world teeming with life at the outer Great Barrier Reef. This massive reef system, the largest in the world, can actually be seen from space. Cruise across the water by catamaran to the Outer Reef pontoon where a diverse, bountiful ecosystem is yours to discover. Explore the kaleidoscopic underwater sea life from the semi-submersible or up close, with goggles, snorkeling along the reef. Many other fascinating activities await you on the Outer Reef. Whatever your pleasure, you’re sure to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience exploring one of the seven natural wonders of the world! Important Note: Scuba diving is an additional cost and some medical restrictions and a waiver of liability will apply. For passengers on Journey to the South Pacific and The Complete South Pacific programs, the scuba diving will be unavailable due to your scheduled flight the following day. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 8.5 hour(s).
Safari of the Scenes $119.00
City: Queenstown Venture into Middle Earth and see the primeval, mystical landscapes where J.R.R. Tolkein’s powerful trilogy was filmed. The vast panoramas of unspoiled wilderness of New Zealand’s South Island provided the ideal setting to bring these beloved adventures to life and the ideal setting for your day of touring. Trek by 4 x 4 up into the Remarkable Mountains and across the Arrow River. There are no movie sets left, just the stunning pristine vistas that filled the frames. Please Note: Option to cancel is available up until 24 hours before start date of tour. If you choose to cancel within 24 hours of the tour, you will still be liable for payment. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 4 hour(s).
Botanic Gardens and the 7th Continent $65.00
City: Christchurch Did you know that New Zealand is one of the primary departure points for Antarctica? And did you know that Christchurch is called the “Garden City”? Well, this fact makes it the perfect place to learn about the 7th continent and to see elegant botanical gardens! At the International Antarctic Centre, step inside and be transported to the “white continent!” The awesome and magical beauty of Antarctica is recreated with an interactive, fun and exciting experience of the “Great White South.” See the seasons change before your eyes. Feel the chill of winter and watch daylight return as the Antarctic summer approaches. They’ll outfit you to experience the Polar Room, where you’ll find real snow and ice! Explore the snow cave or brave the wind chill machine. Every half hour an Antarctic storm blows through the Polar Room, with lightening, authentic Antarctic storm audio and 25 mile per hour winds! Experience the internationally acclaimed new 4-D experience that takes you on a simulated journey through the famed, and notoriously rough, Drake Passage to the shores of Antarctica. Get up close and personal with the amazing little blue penguin. This is as close to the seventh continent as you can get without going! Next, head to the botanical gardens of Christchurch where you will be escorted about the gardens in an open-air vehicle. A professional guide will inform you about the assortment of plant life that grows in and around New Zealand as well as plant life not native to New Zealand. The gardens were established in 1863 on 75 acres and they host the widest variety of exotic and indigenous flora and fauna anywhere in New Zealand. Get your camera ready as an abundance of photo opportunities awaits you. Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 15 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 4 hour(s).
International Antarctic Center $50.00
City: Christchurch Step inside and be transported to the “white continent!” The awesome and magical beauty of Antarctica is recreated with an interactive, fun and exciting experience of the “Great White South.” See the seasons change before your eyes. Feel the chill of winter and watch daylight return as the Antarctic summer approaches. They’ll outfit you to experience the Polar Room, where you’ll find real snow and ice! Explore the snow cave or brave the wind chill machine. Every half hour an Antarctic storm blows through the Polar Room, with lightening, authentic Antarctic storm audio and 25 mile per hour winds! Learn about the Antarctic Treaty, transportation to and from the continent, and the ozone layer and the fascinating wildlife that has adapted to life in this extreme habitat. The Aquarium features amazing creatures found in McMurdo Sound. Get up close and personal with the amazing little blue penguin. While at the Centre, you can experience the Centre’s new 4-D experience that takes you on a virtual journey through the Drake Passage to Antarctica! This experience will show you what it’s like to journey to the southernmost continent in the comfort and confines of a theatre setting. This is as close to the seventh continent as you can get without going! 7/26/11 - Danny has decided that we will offer only the Botanic Garden and the 7th Continent Option for tour series 90, 95, 105, 109 and 369 for 2011. Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 15 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 2.5 hour(s).
Sydney Bridge Climb - Day $180.00
City: Sydney For an up close and personal view of The Sydney Harbour Bridge like no other - climb it! This popular adventure takes you to the top of the Bridge some 440 feet (134 meters) above sea level offering unsurpassed views of the famous Opera House and Sydney’s breathtaking harbor. Prep on the climb simulator before the ascent. Don a specially designed “Bridge Suit” over your personal clothing. A harness keeps you attached to a static line for safety during the climb and a radio and headset keep you in contact with your Climb Leader. A professionally trained Climb Leader accompanies each group providing guidance on the climb and insight about the Harbour Bridge and the unforgettable Sydney sites. The Sydney Bridge Climb is centrally located within walking distance for all downtown hotels. Taxis are available at your own expense. This option is weather permitting and based upon availability. Please Note: Passengers who have consumed any alcohol will not be allowed to do the climb and will be tested by the Bridge staff prior to the climb. Absolutely no refunds will be authorized. Transportation is not included. Duration: approximately 3.5 hour(s).
Sydney By Bike! $95.00
City: Sydney Explore one of the world's greatest cities, by bicycle! Sydney residents are increasingly turning to bicycles to help the environment, ease urban congestion and improve their own health. Join the Australians in this movement and gain an insider’s perspective of Sydney on this slow-paced, easy riding tour. Pedal through the historic waterfront neighborhood, The Rocks, and ride over the graceful Harbour Bridge for breathtaking views. This tour has been tailor-made for Collette Vacations and will be sure to leave you with truly personal memories of the unforgettable city of Sydney! Transportation is not included. Please note a minimum of 3 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 2.5 hour(s).
Shotover Jets $99.00
City: Queenstown A river cruise in Queenstown, the epi-centre of adventure tourism and home of the Bungee Jump, is definitely a little more than just a boat ride! Zoom through the sheer canyons of the Shotover River on this thrilling adventure. Shotover Jet boats zoom along in mere centimeters of the glacial water which flows down from the Southern Alps, providing an exhilarating, but safe and enjoyable ride for all ages. You may get a little wet, but it is a unique and fun way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the South Island of New Zealand. No visit to Queenstown is complete without it! Please Note: Weather may be cold and you may get wet during this option. Actual high-speed boating time is 30 minutes. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 1.5 hour(s).
Tjapukai by Day $65.00
City: Cairns Head to Tjapukai during the day for some aboriginal learning and fun. See how you are at throwing a real boomerang or a Woomera (a traditional spear throwing instrument). If you’d like, have your face painted in the “Magic Space” with natural colors of the rainforest. See a performance at Creation Theatre where live performers interact with giant holograms and you learn about the Aborigines’ beliefs about creation. You will also see a Hunting demonstration to learn how Tjapukai warriors hunted for 40,000 years. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately 2 hour(s).
Glacier Highlights by Skiplane $330.00
City: Mt. Cook Region Spectacular! Fly into the pristine wilderness of Mt. Cook National Park for once-in-a-lifetime views of the wilderness surrounding Mt. Cook. New Zealand’s highest peak, Mt. Cook soars to 12,316 feet. Nineteen peaks in the park climb to over 9,800 feet and 40% of its land is covered in glaciers. The ski plane carries you over the Tasman Glacier and gently lands on the ice field. Explore the glacier on foot and experience the magical silence of the remote ice field. The return flight brings even more breathtaking vistas of New Zealand wilderness and wildlife. NOTE: Please be advised that some of these activities may be weather dependent and/or seasonal offerings and could be unavailable on your specific departure. Flight times may alter the ability to participate in some of the optional activities listed. We apologize in advance for any inconvenience this may cause. Duration: Flight time: 40 minutes. Please Note: This option is only available to purchase while on tour through your Tour Manager. Your transportation is included. Duration: approximately hour(s).
A Taste of Australia $139.00
City: Sydney Meet the fascinating denizens of the deep at the largest Aquarium in the Southern Hemisphere. The Sydney Aquarium allows you to experience the enormous diversity of eight unique Australian aquatic environments. Over 12,000 animals are found here, including huge sharks, rays, platypuses, crocs, and more! Australia’s marine diversity will astound you – from the weedy sea dragon of the Southern Oceans to the wiggly sea cucumber found in tropical waters of the Great Barrier Reef. Later, dine alfresco at Nick’s Restaurant, a popular spot with locals and tourists alike. Enjoy Nick’s renowned fresh seafood and picturesque waterfront location. Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 15 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 5.5 hour(s).
Tjapukai by Night $130.00
City: Cairns Embrace Australia’s ancient indigenous culture during an evening filled with entertainment, delicious cuisine and storytelling that brings dreamtime legends to life. Enjoy a welcome drink on arrival. Have your face painted to reflect Aboriginal history. Revel in a laid-back, delicious buffet dinner enjoying the camaraderie of your travel companions and locals. Discover Aboriginal traditions and Australian culture through customary dances and music. It’s an unforgettable, cultural evening you can’t miss! Your transportation is included. Please note a minimum of 10 passengers is required. Duration: approximately 4 hour(s). |
