Overview
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Fly from the Outback to Cairns and take a catamaran cruise to the Outer Great Barrier Reef to explore by snorkel or glass-bottom boat. Spend a relaxing day in Cairns before flying to Sydney. Take a guided sightseeing tour of the city, including the famous Sydney Opera House. Take a scenic cruise on Sydney Harbour to end the day. This amazing budget-minded tour of Australia is made even better with a 14-night cruise to New Zealand. From Sydney, your ports of call include Eden and Melbourne along with New Zealand’s Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park. You’ll also visit Port Chalmers (Dunedin), Akaroa (Christchurch), Picton, Wellington, Napier, and Tauranga (Rotorua). End in Auckland to finish this amazing Australian and New Zealand vacation!
Highlights
Welcome briefing; sightseeing tour, including Fitzroy Gardens
ALICE SPRINGS School of the Air; Royal Flying Doctor Service; and the Old Telegraph Station
ULURU (AYERS ROCK) Visit to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas); sunset toast; sightseeing tour around the base of the rock
CAIRNS Great Barrier Reef cruise with choice of activities
SYDNEY Sightseeing tour; Sydney Harbour cruise
CRUISE
14-night cruise aboard Holland America’s MS Oosterdam
2021 Tour itinerary
Total meals included:
- 12 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 12 dinners
ARRIVE IN MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Day1
Welcome to Australia! Hotel rooms are available for immediate check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to relax or start exploring this vibrant city.
MELBOURNE
Day2
This morning begins with a welcome briefing to meet fellow passengers and your Tour Director. Then, enjoy a city sightseeing tour which includes landmarks such as Flinders St. Station, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, FITZROY GARDENS, the Botanic Gardens, and the Shrine of Remembrance. The afternoon is free to explore on your own. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
MELBOURNE
Day3
A full free day to explore more of Melbourne on your own. You may wish to consider a day tour to the scenic Great Ocean Road to see the “Twelve Apostles” or travel to Phillip Island and see the famous Penguin Parade.
MELBOURNE–ALICE SPRINGS
Day4
Today, fly to the Outback and visit the SCHOOL OF THE AIR and ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE to learn how education and medical services are provided in remote regions (subject to opening times). Also, visit the OLD TELEGRAPH STATION to discover how early settlers developed communications.
ALICE SPRINGS–ULURU (AYERS ROCK)
Day5
Today, journey through the heart of the Outback, keeping a lookout for red kangaroos, dingoes, camels, and feral horses, known as “Brumbies.” Upon arrival, travel to a popular lookout to enjoy views of the magnificent KATA TJUTA (the Olgas), a geological splendor of some 36 brilliant domes. Later, visit the Sunset Strip, where you will enjoy a CHAMPAGNE TOAST while experiencing one of the world’s greatest spectacles—Uluru at sunset.
ULURU (AYERS ROCK)–CAIRNS
Day6
Enjoy a tour at the base of Uluru, the extraordinary monolith whose circumference is studded with caves decorated with Aboriginal paintings. In the afternoon, fly to Cairns, “Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.”
CAIRNS. EXCURSION TO THE OUTER GREAT BARRIER REEF
Day7
The world’s largest coral reef, made up of over 3,000 individual reefs and over 1,250 miles long, is one of our planet’s most amazing natural wonders. Board a CATAMARAN CRUISE to the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Experience this underwater world that is a dazzling kaleidoscope of color and brilliance. Choose to SNORKEL, take a GLASS-BOTTOM-BOAT TOUR, view the reef from an underwater observatory, and watch a fish feeding. Return to Cairns, where your evening is at leisure.
Meals included:
- Lunch
CAIRNS
Day8
Today is yours to relax and explore. Set amid lush rainforests, soaring peaks, and the ocean, Cairns is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. It has many attractions including a scenic railway, which runs to the picturesque market town of Kuranda and a cable car that glides over Australia’s World-Heritage-listed tropical rainforest canopy.
CAIRNS–SYDNEY
Day9
Board your flight to Sydney, Australia’s largest city. Tonight, you may wish to enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
SYDNEY
Day10
Sydney boasts one of the most beautiful harbors in the world, home to the instantly recognizable Sydney Harbour Bridge and the world-famous architectural wonder—the Sydney Opera House. This morning, your sightseeing tour will take you through the commercial and shopping heart of Sydney. End the day with a HARBOR CRUISE along Sydney Harbour for uninterrupted views of the city skyline.
SYDNEY
Day11
Enjoy a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. You may wish to wander the cobblestone streets of the Rocks district, explore vibrant Darling Harbour, or climb to the top of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge. Your Tour Director will have suggestions to help you make the most of this exciting city.
SYDNEY (EMBARKATION)
Day12
This morning is at leisure. This afternoon, transfer to Sydney’s port to embark on your ship, the MS Oosterdam, for a 14-night CRUISE.
Meals included:
- Dinner
EDEN
Day13
Straddling national parkland and sparkling estuaries on the unspoiled Sapphire Coast of New South Wales is the town of Eden. Learn about Eden’s historic mammalian partnership with local orcas at the Eden Killer Whale Museum, enjoy one of Eden’s many outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, snorkeling, or whale watching, or stroll the streets of Eden, taking in the local art scene and sampling some of the country’s most prized oysters.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
AT SEA
Day14
Enjoy a relaxing day as you cruise the coast of Australia towards Melbourne.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
MELBOURNE
Day15
Melbourne is Australia’s cosmopolitan heart with cutting-edge art and architecture, historic galleries, attractions and museum, plus a dizzying range of restaurants, bistros, markets, and bars. The famous laneways of Melbourne bustle with hidden boutiques, art galleries, and eateries, while myriad beaches and parks allow for the ultimate outdoor lifestyle and active things to do. During your free time here, you may choose to explore the famous lanes and arcades of the city, take a trip out of town to sample award-winning wines in the Yarra Valley, or learn about the wildlife and wonders of the Australian bush on a tour to You Yang Ranges National Park.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
AT SEA
Day16
Depart Australia and start your voyage across the Tasman Sea to New Zealand. On board your ship, you may wish to take part in fascinating lectures, interactive workshops, and cultural performances.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
17
18
MILFORD SOUND & CRUISING FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK, NEW ZEALAND
Day19
Today, set sail through incredible Milford Sound, home to scenic beauty, soaring snow-topped peaks, and pristine wilderness. You’ll also cruise through Fiordland National Park, explored by Captain Cook back in 1770.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
PORT CHALMERS (DUNEDIN)
Day20
Dunedin, known as the “Edinburgh of the South,” was founded by Scottish settlers in 1848. During your time here, you may wish to learn more about the city’s Scottish influence, take an optional ride on the Taieri Gorge Railway, take a hike on Mount Cargill, or visit Penguin Place, an award-winning penguin conservation project.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
AKAROA (CHRISTCHURCH)
Day21
Akaroa is New Zealand’s only town to have originally been established by the French and is the oldest European settlement on the South Island. Take time to stroll the picturesque town, marvel at the colonial architecture, and enjoy the French-inspired and Kiwi-made cheeses and wine while soaking up the stunning scenery.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
PICTON
Day22
Tucked into the northeastern end of the South Island, the petite and picturesque port town of Picton is your starting point for exploring the region of Marlborough. Today, explore this tiny harbor town’s quaint cafés, shops, and aquatic themed museums or head out of town to the luscious wine country of Marlborough, heaven for sauvignon blanc lovers.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
WELLINGTON
Day23
Today you can explore New Zealand’s capital city on your own. Enjoy views from atop Mount Victoria, stroll through the city’s Botanic Gardens, or sample some fresh seafood and local wine. You may also wish to join in an optional city sightseeing tour, partake in a tasting tour featuring regional cheeses, fruits, chocolates, and coffees, or explore Wellington’s waterfront by bicycle.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
NAPIER
Day24
Napier is known as the Art Deco Capital of the World and is surrounded by the lush vineyards of the Hawke’s Bay wine region. Your choice of optional activities includes a city sightseeing tour where you can learn about Napier’s unique history and architecture, a scenic float trip on the Mohaka River, a visit and tasting to a local winery, or a tour by a local Maori guide who will show you his/her rich and colorful heritage.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
TAURANGA (ROTORUA)
Day25
Arrive in Tauranga, a great spot for enjoying water activities, exploring beaches, and discovering the local Maori Culture. You may choose to visit fascinating Rotorua, home to geo-thermal activity of bubbling mud pools, steaming cliffs, and geysers. Other options include an excursion to the famous Glowworm Caves in Waitomo, discovering the Hobbiton movie set used in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, or learning about the New Zealand sheep industry at Agrodome.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
AUCKLAND (DISEMBARKATION)
Day26
This morning, disembark your ship. Please schedule flights after Noon.
Meals included:
- Breakfast
Things to note
Cruise itineraries are provided by Holland America and are current at the time of printing. Your Travel Documents will contain the most current information.Your Tour Director will not accompany you on the 14-night cruise.
At least one member of the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older.
Hotels
It may occasionally be necessary to use alternative hotels of a similar standard to those shown.
Citadines on Bourke
Superior First-Class
Citadines on Bourke is the epitome of Melbourne; vibrant and modern. Located in the heart of the city, Citadines on Bourke has the perfect location to experience all the world's most livable city has to offer. The hotel features a fitness center, indoor pool, sauna, sundeck, business corner, dining options, coin-operated self-service laundry, laundry through the hotel (for a fee), and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Location
131-135 Bourke St, Melbourne, Australia
Hotel Facilities
- Pool
- Bar/Lounge
- Business Center
- Free WiFi
- Fitness Room
- Parking/Valet
- Restaurant On-Site
- Elevator
Room Facilities
- Room Service
- Complimentary Toiletries
- Air Conditioning
- Desk
- Internet Access
- Disabled Access / Rooms
- Television
- Mini-bar
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Phone
- Non-smoking Rooms
- Cable/Satellite
- Coffee Maker
- Hair Dryer
- In-Room Safe
Mercure Alice Springs
Superior Tourist-Class
Situated on the banks of the famous Todd River, Mercure offers spectacular views of the towering River Red Gum, while the well-manicured lush green lawns of the Resort create a relaxing atmosphere as you soak in the Australian Outback charm of the Northern Territory. The hotel features a swimming pool, fitness center, gift shop, restaurant, lounge, coin-operated self-service laundry, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Location
34 Stott Terrace, Alice Springs, Australia
Hotel Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Bar/Lounge
- Pool
- Elevator
- Free WiFi
- Concierge desk
- Fitness Room
- Business Center
- Restaurant On-Site
- Gift Shop
Room Facilities
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Internet Access
- Hair Dryer
- Television
- Room Service
- Phone
- Coffee Maker
- Cable/Satellite
- Mini-bar
- Air Conditioning
- Climate Control
- Desk
- Complimentary Toiletries
Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge
Superior Tourist-Class
Australian hospitality has its own style of service that combines both professionalism and genuine warmth. You'll find this authentic brand of service at the Outback Pioneer Hotel. It offers comfortable rooms and is perfect for the demands of travelers looking for quality service in relaxed surroundings. The hotel features an outdoor pool, restaurant, lounge, and complimentary Wi-Fi. As a guest, you have access to all the facilities the resort has to offer including swimming pools, Resort Town Square shops, tennis courts, coin-operated self-service laundry, visitor centre, tour desk, and more.
Location
317 Yulara Dr, Yulara, Australia
Hotel Facilities
- Free WiFi
- Pool
- Restaurant On-Site
- Bar/Lounge
- Gift Shop
Room Facilities
- Coffee Maker
- Mini-bar
- Internet Access
- Television
- Complimentary Toiletries
- Air Conditioning
Park Regis City Quays
Superior Tourist-Class
Park Regis City Quays is close to everything that makes Cairns a great destination; the Esplanade, restaurants, shops, night markets, Reef Casino, and the Marlin Marina. The hotel features a roof top pool, spa, hair salon, fitness center, and business center. Guestrooms offer air-conditioning, minibar, in-room safe, and laundry.
Location
6 Lake St, Cairns, Australia
Hotel Facilities
- Business Center
- Pool
- Fitness Room
- Spa Services
- Parking/Valet
- Elevator
Room Facilities
- Air Conditioning
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Coffee Maker
- Hair Dryer
- Cable/Satellite
- Mini-bar
- Internet Access
- Complimentary Toiletries
- Phone
- Non-smoking Rooms
- In-Room Safe
- Television
- Voicemail
Travelodge Wynyard
Moderate First-Class
The Travelodge Wynyard is ideally located adjacent to the Wynyard railway station and is a stones throw away from many major Sydney attractions including The Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the historical The Rocks area. The hotel features a restaurant, lounge, room service, fitness center, concierge service, internet access, and coin-operated, self-service laundry.
Location
7-9 York Street, Sydney, Australia
Hotel Facilities
- Business Center
- Concierge desk
- Free WiFi
- Fitness Room
- Luggage Storage
- Elevator
- Restaurant On-Site
- Bar/Lounge
- Parking/Valet
- Currency Exchange
Room Facilities
- Non-smoking Rooms
- Mini-bar
- Air Conditioning
- Voicemail
- Television
- Alarm Clock
- Hair Dryer
- Cable/Satellite
- Internet Access
- Iron/Ironing Board
- Coffee Maker
- Complimentary Toiletries
- Phone
- Room Service
- Disabled Access / Rooms
- In-Room Safe
- Desk
