Beaches and Reefs with Sailing Whitsundays option

Beaches and Reefs with Sailing Whitsundays option

Picture this: A tour that puts you so close, so often to Australia's famed beaches and reefs that you and the fish communicate on a first-name basis. If that sounds like exaggeration, perhaps it is. It's also our promise of intense, oceanic intimacy, and priceless, timeless moments that become scorched into your memory. You'll swim, snorkel, jet ski and surf, and perhaps, you'll even towel off for some shopping, bushwalking, and tandem skydiving.



Print Itinerary Itinerary & Map

  1. Day Icon-day1 Icon-day2 Depart for Australia

    We fly over the international date line on our way to Sydney, in Australia.
  2. Day Icon-day3 Arrive Sydney

    Check into your Travelodge Hotel Sydney after 2.00pm, the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore. Hotel
  3. Day Icon-day4 Sydney to Shoal Bay (Port Stephens)

    Meet your Contiki crew and before heading across the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, we'll make a photostop taking in the harbour and Opera House. Then we drive north to Port Stephens where you can choose cruise with dolphins, or why not take a tour through the sand dunes and try your hand at sandboarding. Resort (D)
  4. Day Icon-day5 Shoal Bay to Coffs Harbour (Surf Village)

    Today we continue along the scenic 'holiday coast' to our Surf Village near Coffs Harbour. Here we give you the option to try the iconic Aussie sport of surfing, and be taught by the best in the business! If you're not into surfing - maybe a drink, a dip or a stroll along the beach. Surf Village (B,D)
  5. Day Icon-day6 Coffs Harbour to Surfers Paradise

    This morning we'll stop at Cape Byron, Australia's most easterly point. Then onto trendy Byron Bay where you can shop or swim. By evening, we'll have crossed the Queensland border arriving at Surfers Paradise. After dinner, try your luck at Jupiter's Casino! Hotel (B)
  6. Day Icon-day7 Surfers Paradise

    So much to do in the name of leisure. Here goes! Relax on 42km (26miles) of white sand beaches, or if you're feeling adventurous - why not try a tandem skydive, Tigermoth joyflight or Harley Davidson ride. All are available in Australia's biggest playground. Hotel
  7. Day Icon-day8 Surfers Paradise to Fraser Island

    First up we'll take in the sights and sounds of Brisbane, before heading to Noosa Heads with its stunning beaches and great shopping. We'll continue north along the coast meeting our launch to Fraser Island. Eco Lodge (B,D)
  8. Day Icon-day9 Fraser Island

    Now you're on the largest sand island in the world! What to do? Here are a few clues. Why not take a 4-wheel drive bus tour through the rainforests, a guided bushwalk or a swim in the fresh water lakes? With this many options there's no chance of going troppo! Eco Lodge
  9. Day Icon-day10 Fraser Island to Country Homestead

    We travel north to the heart of Australia's beef industry on the Capricorn Coast, and our unique Aussie experience at our Country Homestead. Enjoy a hearty meal and hospitality the Australian way! Country Homestead (B,D)
  10. Day Icon-day11 Icon-day12 Icon-day13 Whitsunday Sailing

    Today we drive to Airlie Beach, gateway to the Whitsundays, to board our flotilla yacht. Enjoy two days and nights sailing the stunning Whitsunday islands. Swim, snorkel, or laze your way around this tropical paradise, on board a flotilla yacht. NB: Twin share supplement not applicable. Then your third night in the Whitsundays will be spent relaxing and toasting the sunset on Long Island. Yacht (B,D)(B,L,D)(B,L)
  11. Day Icon-day14 Whitsundays to Cairns

    It's north to Townsville to explore the scenic lookout of Castle Hill, overlooking Magnetic Island. This evening we'll check into our Cairns hotel, situated in a lush tropical setting. Resort (B)
  12. Day Icon-day15 Icon-day16 Cairns

    For the adventurous, a chance to do some white water rafting on the rapids of the Tully River, or take the opportunity to visit the famous Outer Barrier Reef aboard a high-speed catamaran. Why not scuba dive amidst amazingly colourful tropical fish? Or if you prefer, maybe spend the days at leisure doing some shopping in town. In the evening we'll check out more tropical wildlife at one of Cairns' nightclubs! Resort (B)
  13. Day Icon-day17 Cairns

    Our final morning is spent with a visit to Tjapukai and Kuranda to watch traditional aboriginal dancers, learn how to throw a boomerang and to appreciate the beauty of the Atherton Tablelands. What a way to finish...see you next time! Say a final farewell as your tour ends upon our return to Cairns at midday.

Highlights

All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour price!

Included
  • Sydney: Visit Mrs Macquarie's Chair for a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour; See the Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge; See the Hawkesbury River & its oyster farms
  • Hunter Valley: See the vineyards & enjoy a wine tasting
  • Coffs Harbour: See the Big Banana & banana plantations
  • Byron Bay: Visit Cape Byron, Australia's most eastern point
  • Currumbin: Visit the wildlife sanctuary, cuddle a koala and see native Australian animals including kangaroos, emus, crocodiles, dingoes & Tasmanian devils
  • Surfers Paradise: Visit Jupiter's Casino; Visit the 'Gold Coast' beaches
  • Brisbane: City sightseeing tour; See an Opal demonstration; See the Brisbane River & Southbank
  • Country Homestead: Stay at a traditional Country Homestead; Enjoy a bush dance evening; Farm tour; See the farm animals & kangaroos
  • Noosa: Visit the picturesque seaside town & beach
  • Fraser Island: Stay on this World Heritage listed island; Stay in the eco-village & enjoy the resort facilities; Enjoy the scenic boat trip to the island & enjoy the resort facilities
  • Capricorn Coast: Visit & cross the Tropic of Capricorn; Rockhampton sightseeing tour
  • Mackay: Visit this major centre of the Australian sugar cane industry
  • Airlie Beach: Visit the vibrant seaside town
  • Whitsundays: Stay on Long Island & enjoy all the resort facilities; Transfer boat to Long Island; See native birdlife & wallabies
  • Townsville: City sightseeing tour
  • Tully: Cross the Tully River, home to Australia's best white water rafting
  • Cairns: City sightseeing tour; Throw a boomerang & see spear throwing; Scenic drive into the Atherton Hinterland to Kuranda; Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre & see Aboriginal dancing
Accommodations
  • 15 nights in special Contiki accommodation based on twin share
  • Breakfasts (B), Lunches (L), and Dinners (D) – as per itinerary
Contiki Difference
  • Free Contiki ‘Travellers Guide’ information book
  • Free Contiki document wallet

Optional Excursions

Sydney

Group Photograph (A$15)
Our group photo is taken from Mrs Macquarie's Point, with two of the world's best known landmarks in the background - the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It makes a great holiday souvenir and an excellent way to remember your fellow travellers.

Shoal Bay

Dolphin Cruise (A$21)
Cruise the harbour of Port Stephens in search of some of the resident bottlenose dolphins. You can even get a closer view with a swim in the boom net off the boat!

Coffs Harbour

Learn to Surf (A$50)
Hit the waves at our secluded surf spot! First learn the basics, before trying your hand in the waves, where a professional instructor will help you refine your surfing skills. All the equipment is provided for you to have a great experience!

Surfers Paradise

Sea Kayaking (A$70)
Enjoy an expert guided sea-kayak safari, exploring the islands of the Gold Coast. This easy paddle on the water is complemented by snorkeling, bushwalking and marine life spotting. Also enjoy morning or afternoon tea on a secluded beach.
Tandem Sky-Diving (From A$260)
Have you ever felt the need to jump out of a light aircraft? Attached to an expert parachutist, who will do all the work while you have all the fun, you'll experience the rush of a freefall before gently floating to earth while enjoying sensational views. Price includes compulsory levy.
Tiger Moth Biplane Flight (A$200)
Fly in a vintage Tiger Moth bi-plane and experience the freedom of the open cockpit with the sound of the wind in the wires. The flight is over scenic Surfers Paradise. And for a little extra you can take the acrobatic ride and 'loop the loop'.
Bushwacker Eco Rainforest Tour (A$110)
Rainforest Discovery Bushwalk - Discover the unique ecosystem of the World Heritage listed Springbrook National Park with an expert guide. Waterfalls and native fauna are the highlights in this precious region. Lunch, snacks and National Park entry fees included.
Dracula's Cabaret Restaurant (From A$70)
Jump aboard Dracula's ghost train and get your fangs into a 'to-die-for' 3-course meal. Enjoy a fast moving comedy show that features stunning contemporary rock productions, outrageous puppets, mad skits and Gothic flair.
Harley Davidson Motorcycle Rides (From A$48)
Climb aboard a Harley Davidson and escape into the Gold Coast hinterland, for a look at this stunningly beautiful untouched paradise. A maze of natural lush bushland with breathtaking views of the coast awaits you. A truly classic ride.
Learn to Surf (A$42)
Hit the waves on one of Australia's famous surf beaches. First learn the basics, then hit the water, where a professional instructor will help you refine your surfing skills. All the equipment is provided for you to have a great experience!
Mountain Trek 4-Wheel Drive (Full Day A$120, Half Day A$80)
A full or half-day tour of the World Heritage declared Lamington and Mount Tambourine National Parks by 4-Wheel Drive. Explore part of the largest preserved sub-tropical rainforest in Australia with it's unique vegetation, cascading waterfalls and breathtaking views. The full day tour includes lunch.

Fraser Island

Whale Watching (Aug-Oct only) (A$95)
Take a half-day cruise on Hervey Bay and view the southern humpback whales returning south to Antarctica after calving in the northern waters. Whale watching boats cruise amongst the huge mammals allowing you to view from close range while they rest and play. Available from August to October only.
Fraser Island 4-Wheel Drive Adventures (Full Day A$145, Half Day A$80)
The best way to explore the world's largest sand island is by 4-wheel drive vehicle. You have the choice of either a half or full day 4WD bus excursion, escorted by an expert local guide who will take you to some of the best spots on the island, such as stunning Lake McKenzie, Central Station and Wanggoolba Creek. The full day tour includes lunch.

Cairns

AJ Hackett Bungy Jump (A$125 (Bungy); A$69 (Minjin))
Face your fears as you jump from the famous AJ Hackett Bungy Tower! With panoramic views out to the Great Barrier Reef it's a memorable experience. Or tackle the "Minjin" swing through the rainforest at speeds up to 100kph. Note: Prices do not include the A$5 Personal Insurance Levy - paid separately. www.AJHackett.com
Scuba Diving (in addition to Outer Barrier Reef Cruise) (From A$70)
Take the opportunity of a lifetime to try scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef. You will be assisted with all equipment and training. Certified dives, and introductory dives for beginners, are available. Anyone is able to participate (subject to medical conditions). Diving is fun and easy - don't miss out!
Skyrail (From A$38)
Climb aboard for the "World's most beautiful rainforest experience". Skyrail will take you on a cableway ride just above the Rainforest canopy between Cairns and Kuranda. On the way you have the chance to experience the beauty and diversity of the rainforest at floor level at the two interactive stations. Take walks, see the displays at a Rainforest Interpretive Centre or ask questions of the expert local guides.
Tandem Sky-Diving (From A$260)
Have you ever felt the need to jump out of a light aircraft? Attached to an expert parachutist, who will do all the work while you have all the fun, you'll experience the rush of a freefall before gently floating to earth while enjoying sensational views. Price includes compulsory levy.
Outer Barrier Reef Cruise (From A$150)
A full day out to the Great Barrier Reef aboard a luxury high-speed catamaran. Included in your day is snorkelling (all equipment provided), coral viewing by semi-submersible and underwater observatory, marine biologist presentation, plus a smorgasbord lunch with seafood and morning and afternoon teas. Includes Environmental Charge.
Guided Horse & Quad Bike Tours (Horse Riding: A$105; Quad Bikes: A$125)
Experience the Aussie bush and rainforest as you meander on horseback or charge by All-Terrain Vehicle along nature trails. See the awesome views of the gorgeous coastline. For beginners or the more experienced. Prices include Insurance Levy.
Hot Air Ballooning (A$180)
Put your alarm on for an early start! This adventure begins at dawn and with your help, the balloon is filled and made ready for lift off! The next half hour is peacefully spent in mid-air, gazing at the ancient landscape of the Atherton Tablelands, formed by extinct volcanic activity. Once you have landed, enjoy breakfast and a glass or two of cold champagne. Price includes insurance & aviation levies.
White Water Rafting (From A$160)
Enjoy over 4 hours of white water rafting on the Tully River. Excitement builds as you tackle world-famous rapids that take you through spectacular rainforest. A delicious lunch on the riverbank is followed by more first-class rafting. Includes Insurance & Park levies.
Daintree Rainforest Day Tour (A$150)
A 'bush walk on wheels', not a bus ride! Enjoy a spectacular day seeing the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation. Swim in a waterhole, see the unique wildlife, and have lunch off the beaten track in this full day adventure.