13-Nights Essential Australia: Sydney, Rock, Reef & Melbourne from $4,786

Day 1: Arrive in Sydney

Transfer: Sydney Kingsford Smith Airportto Sydney - City Centre

Hotel: Porter House Hotel Sydney M - Gallery (5 Star Rating)

Where rich history meets modern elegance, The Porter House Hotel Sydney - MGallery Collection pays tribute to its heritage beginnings, from tobacco and leather trade to the trail of wonder of spice and spirit merchants. From the moment you set foot inside, you will be enticed to discover more, always surprising and always something to come back for.

Positioned in the heart of Sydney’s central business district, just footsteps from Hyde Park and a short stroll from Pitt Street Mall, QVB, theatres and other iconic attractions. The Porter House Hotel is a stylish sanctuary, blending architectural design with the charms of yesteryear. With 122 guest rooms designed for the modern traveler, fitness center, outdoor heated swimming pool and a hospitality destination spanning three unique venues, The Porter House Hotel is a place to meet and explore, to linger and find yourself happily lost within.

Day 2: Full Day Sydney Highlights Tour & Sydney Harbour Luncheon Cruise

Depart your hotel for an unforgettable Panoramic Sydney half day city sights tour. On tour you will visit the historic Rocks area and hear of early convict history. We continue through the financially focused Central Business District (CBD), and Macquarie Street. Marvel at 19th century sandstone architecture such as NSW Parliament House, Rum Hospital, Hyde Park Barracks and St Mary’s Cathedral. We will continue to Mrs Macquaries Point, to enjoy magnificent views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. We then continue through Sydneys Eastern Suburbs, home to the rich and famous. Travelling along the coves and shores of one of the world’s most impressive harbours, we will take a few stops for photo opportunities, including a panoramic photo of Sydney skyline. You will pass through areas such as Kings Cross, Double Bay, Rose Bay before arriving at Watsons Bay.Time permitting, you may have the option for a short coastal walk with views of the South Pacific Ocean and the entrance to Sydney harbour.

Travel on to famous Bondi Beach for a 30-minute stop. Visit the beachfront promenade, put your toes in the sand, enjoy a coffee or cool drink (at own cost). See bronzed Aussie lifesavers and surfers riding the waves of Bondi. Re-board your bus and continue on to Tamarama and Bronte beaches before returning to the city via Centennial Park and Paddington, a trendy district with its elegant terrace houses and boutique shops along Oxford Street.

Arrive at Circular Quay for your Sydney Harbour lunch cruise. Departing from the Eastern Pontoon @ 12 noon you will spend 2 relaxing hours discovering the secrets of one of the world’s most famous and spectacular natural harbours including icons such as Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, Sydney Botanical Gardens and more. We give you a chance to see the city from a new perspective and marvel at the sights that decorate its coastline. Owing to our educated live commentator, you will get to learn something new about Sydney, its history and about each of the sights that you can see from the deck. Included is an expansive fresh buffet including seafood and beverages are also included

Your cruise concludes at 2.15pm at Circular quay and on arrival, make your way at leisure back to your hotel. Your cruise includes a full buffet lunch with a mix of hot and cold selections, and fresh seafood, as well as a beverage package.

Day 3: Full Day Blue Mountains Tour

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 luxury retreats and stunning views. Today your guide will take you off the beaten track to visit remote lookout locations and discuss the history, flora and fauna of this magnificent region.

7:00 - 7:30 AM Depart from the hotel with AEA Luxury Tours. Our first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill a working farm also home to Kangaroos, Emus, Wombats and Koalas. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure.

From Calmsley Hill we continue to ascend the Blue Mountains via the highway. We will visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of the Jamison Valley seeing beautiful vistas. Where possible this will be away from the crowds of tours that visit the mountains each day with other operators, thus our guests will enjoy a stress and hurry free environment taking in the views and information imparted by their guide.

Continuing on we arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout points away from the crowds for views of the famous 3 Sisters. Whilst the Blue Mountains features so much more than this natural attraction you can't help but admire the unquestionable beauty of this amazing rock formation. The character of the Three Sisters changes throughout the day and throughout the seasons as the sunlight brings out the magnificent colors. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos.

We then make our way around the mountain towards the village of Blackheath and our lunch venue the Hydro Majestic. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. Here in this relaxed venue with stunning views. We enjoy a 2-course lunch with One NON Alcoholic Beverage Per person. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Additional Beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar.

The afternoon is spent visiting a selection of lookouts. Once you clap your eyes on the view from Govetts Leap you'll know why it's one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff. If you're not mesmerized by the dancing waves of water spray, you'll be transfixed by the sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness. We then stop at the delightful Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, where we enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before travelling down the Bells Line of Road and its fruit orchard industry. We arrive back at your hotel approximately 4.30 - 5.00pm.

Day 4: Sydney to Uluru/Ayers Rock with Kata Tjuta Domes

Transfer: Sydney - City Centre to Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport

Transfer: Ayers Rock Airportto Ayers Rock

Hotel: Desert Gardens Hotel (3 Star Rating)

Imagine waking up to a sunrise view of Uluru, blazing red under a sunny Outback sky. Desert Gardens Hotel boasts the only rooms with views of Uluru in Ayers Rock Resort. Perched within an oasis of native gardens, the hotel’s 218 elegant guestrooms provide a relaxing retreat from a day of adventure. Accommodation options are diverse, from deluxe rock view rooms to shady poolside rooms, each located under a canopy of towering gumtrees and garden beds dotted with native shrubs and flowers.

Travel to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) where your guide will reveal the many attributes of this diverse environment. Arriving at Walpa Gorge you will walk between the mighty conglomerate domes and hear how these 36 domes that makeup Kata Tjuta have evolved over millions of years. Your guide will return you to your hotel in time for those joining Sounds of Silence or Tali Wiru dinner or Field of Lights.

Day 5: Half Day Uluru Tour & Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner

Your Wintjiri Wiru experience begins deep in the desert. After a short journey from Ayers Rock Resort, take a gentle evening stroll through the desert along an elevated walkway until you reach the open-air theatre, set upon a dune top. You'll be greeted with delicious cocktails, infused with native ingredients while taking in the incredible views and watch on in awe as the sun slowly sets over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Embark on a culinary adventure with a gourmet dinner hamper where native ingredients are combined with modern culinary techniques to create a masterpiece for the palette.

With the heart of Australia as the backdrop, a story passed on for thousands of generations, now passes to you. Witness the ancient Mala story re-told like never before with ground-breaking technology. Choreographed drones, lasers, and projections will take flight, lighting up the night sky in a modern, artistic expression of an ancient, Anangu story. Feel a powerful connection to country as you listen to a traditional Inma soundtrack and narration in the local Pitjantjatjara language and immerse yourself in a living story.Explore the most profound and culturally significant monolith in Australia. Embrace the culture, geology and environment that is Uluru. As we drive around the base, immerse yourself in the area. Enjoy a short walk into Mutitjulu Waterhole, visit rock art sites and the local waterhole with your guide to learn of Uluru's significance to the Anangu (local Aboriginal people). As we continue our drive around the rest of the base we experience the Mala walk before adjourning to the Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing area where you will observe a sunset from a different perspective over Uluru with Kata Tjuta in the distance.

Day 6: Ayers Rock to Cairns

Transfer: Ayers Rock to Ayers Rock Airport

Transfer: Cairns Airportto Port Douglas

Hotel: Freestyle Resort (3 Star Rating)

At Freestyle Resort Port Douglas you will be greeted with a warm welcome and the most friendly, personalised service whilst enjoying this tropical haven located between the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

A place to completely unwind, connect with family and curate your own adventures. Freestyle Resort was recently recognised as Travellers' Choice Best of the Best accommodation provider, ranking in the top 1% of properties worldwide.

Day 7: Full Day Cruise on the Great Barrier Reef

For an experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver's wave-piercing catamarans and friendly crew will take you to a reef at the very edge of Australia's Continental Shelf, to an underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of colour and brilliance.

Agincourt Reef is a magnificent ribbon reef, where you can experience firsthand the magic that is the Great Barrier Reef. Choose to dive, snorkel, or stay dry and explore the stunning reef from the comfort of a semi-sub, only one-metre underwater. Watch the fish feeding from a unique underwater viewing platform and underwater observatory, or fly in a helicopter over the reef (at an extra cost). Whichever way you choose; you'll bring home a lifetime of memories from this living natural wonder.

Day 8: Full Day Cape Tribulation & Daintree Rainforest Tour

Your tour begins with being met by your friendly accredited guide at your accommodation. After introductions, drive north along the magnificent scenic coastal route learning about the history of the area and admiring spectacular views of the coastline and the Azure waters of the Coral Sea. The first stop is at the Majestic Daintree River for refreshments before enjoying an informative River Cruise. Relax and enjoy the splendour only the Daintree Rainforest can offer as you learn of Estuarine Crocodiles, mangrove forests and endemic wildlife. Next, we make our way up over the Alexandra Range and pause for a panoramic view of World Heritage, Wet Tropics, and Tropical Rainforest merging with the azure colours of the Coral Sea.

Your guide will take you on a journey through ancient Daintree Rainforest, whilst giving you an interpretation of flora and fauna. You will have ample time for photographs and questions as we search for the elusive, rare and totally unique Southern Cassowary and other wildlife species. Enjoy lunch in a beautiful rainforest setting with opportunity for an invigorating rainforest swim. For over 50,000 years, Cape Tribulation beach (Kalkajaka) has held immense cultural significance for the local Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people, while providing modern day visitors the unique opportunity to witness the only place on earth where two World Heritage Listed sites converge - where rainforest meets the reef.

The day concludes with a delicious tropical fruit ice-cream followed by a cable ferry crossing back over the Daintree River before returning to your accommodation late afternoon.

Day 9: Port Douglas to Melbourne

Transfer: Port Douglas to Cairns Airport

Transfer: Melbourne Airportto Melbourne - City Centre

Hotel: Crown Promenade Hotel (4 Star Rating)

Crown Promenade Melbourne is a top choice for the savvy traveller who seeks functionality, location and genuine service with the amenities you expect, and the extras you deserve.

Day 10: Melbourne Lanes and Arcades Walking Tour

Have you ever been to a city and wondered what all the fuss was about? Or wasted time trying to find that cool local café you were told of, and ended up missing everything? Melbourne's arcades and laneways hide many of these answers. Join this indulgent morning walk through Melbourne's beautiful back streets, and get orientated in the life of the city that locals love. Discover artisanal and specialty retailers, that often are only found in the city. Some of the quirkiest cafes, independent designers, street art, architecture, and historical tales are found in these walkways. Soak in the city via all your senses, and engage with passionate creatives. There is something for everyone, locals and visitors alike.

Day 11: Great Ocean Road Tour

Experience this majestic coastal drive-in style with your small group and enjoy time to relax and fully appreciate the wonders of this world-famous touring route. Stay on the lookout for some very special animals including whales, dolphins, echidnas and bandicoots. Your camera will get a good workout along this exciting journey where we will stop for plenty of photo opportunities.

To begin, your expert Oceania Guide will collect you from your Melbourne hotel to commence your exciting road trip. Your next stop will be at Apollo Bay, a tranquil seaside town which is most noteworthy for its setting among the soft rolling hills. It offers a great selection of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy some lunch (not included). Following this, we will enjoy a walk in the forest in the Otway Ranges. A truly unique day out, capped off by a visit to the ancient rock formations of the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. Finally, your Oceania guide will transfer you back to the comfort of your hotel in Melbourne.

We plant a native tree for every passenger on our Great Ocean Road Tour.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza Melbourne (4 Star Rating)

For three decades, the iconic Crowne Plaza Melbourne has played a definitive role in Melbourne’s rich cultural history. Recently reimagined, discover Crowne Plaza Melbourne’s new modern era proudly situated within the architectural façade that is innately recognised along the Yarra River.

Escape to our absolute riverfront hotel. With spacious guestrooms and unrivalled city skyline and river views, you’ll wake up feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Our Docklands hotel offers 432 modern rooms with luxurious bedding and premium amenities to ensure an enjoyable stay.

Day 12: French Island & Phillip Island Penguin Tour

Step back in time and embark on an unforgettable journey across two of Australia’s most scenic islands.

This isn’t your typical Phillip Island tour—it’s an island-hopping adventure that brings you face-to-face with some of the country’s cutest and most iconic wildlife, all while taking in breathtaking ocean views. Your adventure begins with a ride aboard the sleek, fast catamaran of Western Port Ferries. As you sail across the crystal-blue waters, keep an eye out for seals and pelicans along the beautiful coastline. Arriving at French Island, a 4WD tour will take you deep into the untouched wilderness where wild koalas can be spotted in their natural habitat. Enjoy lunch from a local farmgate in winter, or a relaxing afternoon tea in summer, while exploring hidden gems on this largely undiscovered island.

Back on board, you’ll sail into the charming village of Cowes on Phillip Island, with views of clifftop houses and the chance to spot dolphins and seals along the way. Stroll the pier and explore Cowes’ main street, lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. Next, head to the Nobbies Boardwalk, a dramatic headland home to stunning sea bluffs and a seal colony, before witnessing the famous Penguin Parade as the little penguins waddle ashore at dusk. A day full of wildlife, ocean views, and unforgettable memories awaits you!Welcome to Melbourne, 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 with your expert guide. Join a small group tour - to make the most of your stay as you zoom in and around the city, visiting such wonders as Federation Square, the Melbourne Cricket Ground and Melbourne's world-famous sports precinct, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Albert Park Lake (Formula 1) and over to Brighton Beach. You will also enjoy a guided walking tour through Melbourne's famed laneways and arcades as part of your morning.

Next, get whisked away to discover Phillip Island’s unique nature experiences and dramatic landscapes. Your small group tour will help to further the protection and conservation of the local fauna and flora. Drive south-east from Melbourne to reach Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park where you will meet endangered species, kangaroos, wallabies and koalas plus an array of colourful birds and reptiles. The journey then leads onto Phillip Island, the home of the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix and the famous Little Penguins. Upon arrival on the island, depending on the time of year and your particular interests, we will visit Woolamai beach to see surfers riding the waves. From here, we go to the western corner of the island to enjoy magnificent views of Bass Strait and the Nobbies, which is home to the largest colony of fur seals in Australia.

During the daylight savings months (early Oct - early Apr), you will travel to the town of Cowes where you will have free time for dinner. In the winter months (early Apr - early Oct) you can have something to eat at the Penguin Parade Visitor Center or wait for your arrival back at your city hotel. Finally, a trip to Phillip Island is not complete without its black tie gala event: the Penguin Parade. You will head to the Visitor Centre to shop, have a coffee and meander along the boardwalk to the viewing platform where you will see the little penguins come ashore, as they hurry off to find their burrows. Return to Melbourne

Day 13: Day at Leisure in Melbourne



Day 14: Depart from Melbourne

Transfer: Melbourne - City Centre to Melbourne Airport