Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef

Walk across the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge and take in the spectacular views of the stunning Sydney Harbour, Sydney Opera House and the city.

As you stroll along the narrow, cobblestone streets of The Rocks, you can’t help but get caught up in the area’s intriguing past, present and future. Here you’ll find chic restaurants, stylish bars and hearty pubs, all amidst some of the oldest surviving buildings in Sydney. One moment you’ll be touring historic Cadman’s Cottage, and the next you’ll find yourself amongst the eclectic shopping, artisan markets and glitzy galleries that make The Rocks the engaging destination that is it today.

Get to know the vibrant Manly, known for its stunning beaches, outdoor cafés, and cool restaurants. The streets are lined with surf and beach-ware shops and little boutique stores. Get active with a scenic coastal walk or go for a swim, hire a bike or walk to Fairy Bower Beach, where the little penguins reside.

Hop aboard the Manly Ferry, one of Sydney’s most iconic experiences. Departing regularly to and from Manly to Circular Quay, the ferry cruises past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House before passing Kirribilli House the official residence of the Prime Minister.

With a storied history, a dazzling setting and its fair share of beautiful people, Bondi Beach is rightly recognized as one of the best beaches in the world. Upon arrival at this enticing stretch of sand, you’ll first learn about what makes Bondi so unique—the surfers, the rescues and all the action you might expect at one of Australia’s most famous destinations. From there, you’re on your own. Catch some rays, feel the sand between your toes, rent a boogie-board or even take some surfing lessons.

You bring the camera and “Mrs. Macquarie” will provide the perfect backdrop. Featuring a breathtaking view of both the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Mrs. Macquarie’s Point has been attracting visitors since its origin in 1810, when an exposed sandstone rock was cut into the shape of a bench. Known today as Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, legend has it that if you make a wish while sitting on the bench, there’s a very good chance that your wish will come true.

After bustling Sydney, the city of Cairns may feel like a sleepy little tropical village. Everything in town seems built for relaxation. The homes are built on stilts to catch the cool ocean breezes and overhead fans whirl in every room. Walk down the lively, slightly bohemian Esplanade, the focal point of the city. This is where the city began in 1876 as a gold- and tin-mining port. Wharf Street was once the main drag, at a time when the entire area was known as the Barbary Coast because of its rough, criminal element. Now, it is a thriving port, where big-game fishing is a major industry. Minutes away, see the hustle and bustle at the Cairns Night Market filled with with knick-knacks and tropical food delights. This city is the gateway into Australia's Tropical North and two significant natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest.

Take a stroll on the Cairns esplanade buzzing with innovative eateries, on-trend bars, stylish boutiques and galleries. At the end of the day get a glimpse of the idyllic sun setting over the water.

Each night when the sun sets, Cairns Night Market comes alive. Featuring over 70 retail outlets and home to a myriad of food options, settle in for the evening, hunt for a bargain and grab a yummy bite to eat! Perhaps try some local Tropical North Queensland delights like a sugar cane juice and a tropical dessert from the Mango Bar.

No trip to Cairns is complete without a visit to the outer Great Barrier Reef - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and easily one of the world's top natural wonders. Transfer from Cairns towards Moore Reef where the underwater universe awaits. Upon arrival at the reef, take part in a guided snorkel safari and participate in the Eye on the Reef program with a marine biologist to monitor the health of the reef. See firsthand the incredible array of life and colors that exist just below the surface with a semi-submersible coral reef viewing tour.

Travel along the Coral Sea coast, one of Australia's most scenic roads, to Daintree National Park. Home to the Kuku Yalanji people, it’s the world’s oldest rainforest where the creeping vines and emerald canopy have been growing for more than 180 million years. First stop, a Daintree River cruise, don't forget to keep those eyes peeled for a big salty croc! Next, learn about the significance of fragile environments—the biology, ecology, and antiquity of the forest environment and walk through the rainforest canopy. After lunch visit an organic orchard and learn about the exotic fruits locally grown for tropical ice-creams. After perhaps sampling a scoop or two continue on a guided nature walk through Mossman Gorge, a spectacular and scenic part of the rainforest where you will learn about Australia's flora and fauna and the area’s traditional custodians, the Kuku Yalanji. Finish up with a stop at Palm Cove, where the rainforest meets the coral reef.

Enjoy a one hour cruise down the Daintree River where an expert guide will share secrets about Australia's flora and fauna. The Daintree River is known for its rich bird habitats, tree snakes, and saltwater crocodiles.

At Daintree Discovery Centre, your group will be introduced to the significance of fragile environments—the biology, ecology, and antiquity of the forest environment. Experience the 23-meter-high Daintree Rainforest Canopy Tower, the 10-meter-high aerial walkway, and the over 900 meters of elevated rainforest boardwalks.

Learn how ice cream is made on site using organically grown and farmed exotic fruit, from trees that are naturally irrigated by mother nature. See the sustainable practices that are implemented at every stage of ice cream production, as the preservation of the pristine rainforest ecosystem and it's inhabitants is top priority at this orchard. Enjoy a scoop (or two!) of delicious ice cream as you marvel at the important work being done here.

Make a stop at Palm Cove, a charming beachside village where the reef meets the rainforest. Take a stroll up the esplanade, lined with 500-year-old melaleuca trees and dip your feet in the tropical waters.