Australian Gems : Reef, Harbour & Wildlife

Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, bids you 'Wominjeka’ (meaning ‘welcome’ in the language of the Wurundjeri people, the Traditional Owners of the Melbourne area). From its founding in 1835, Melbourne has grown into one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, celebrated for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and buzzing nightlife.

You’ll be greeted on arrival at the airport before enjoying a comfortable transfer to your accommodation, The Voco Melbourne Central. The remainder of the day is yours to unwind or discover Melbourne’s vibrant laneways, cafes and riverfront.

After breakfast, join a local guide for a city walking tour – the perfect way to experience Melbourne. As your guide shares insights into the city's history and culture, visit iconic spots like Flinders Street Station, Chinatown, and Hosier Lane. Afterwards, embark on a guided tour of Queen Victoria Market, a Melbourne landmark with over 145 years of history. Once the city’s wholesale hub, the "Queen Vic" has evolved into a vibrant food lover’s paradise, brimming with fresh produce, gourmet treats, artisanal products, and street food from around the world. Your guide will lead the way through the bustling food halls, uncovering local highlights and international bites, offering a feast of ingredients that celebrate Melbourne’s multicultural spirit.

From Melbourne’s cosmopolitan CBD, you may choose to join an optional excursion to the natural wonders of Phillip Island.

Enhance Your Journey – Visit Philip Island

In Philip Island, visit the Koala Conservation Reserve where elevated boardwalks offer the chance to observe koalas in their natural habitat, alongside native birdlife and bushland species. As evening falls, experience the world-famous Penguin Parade. From purpose-built viewing platforms, watch as hundreds of little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle ashore to their burrows — a truly iconic Australian wildlife spectacle.

This morning, depart Melbourne and board your flight to Cairns, the gateway to Far North Queensland. On arrival, soak in the tropical atmosphere as you’re transferred along the scenic route to Port Douglas. Check in to the Oaks Resort and spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure, perhaps taking a stroll along the palm-fringed beaches, enjoying a refreshing drink by the pool, or simply unwinding in your premium accommodation.

This morning, you may wish to venture to Mossman Gorge in Daintree National Park for an optional tour.

In the afternoon, embark on a tour of the Great Barrier Reef to the Low Isles. This four-acre coral cay is surrounded by 55 acres of vibrant reef, which you can admire from your glass-bottom boat. Explore the island at your leisure, take a guided snorkeling tour with a marine biologist, swim with turtles, and marvel at the colorful coral gardens. Back on board, enjoy an informative reef talk from your skipper before indulging in a fresh, light lunch.

Enhance Your Journey – Mossman Gorge

In Mossman Gorge, embark on a Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk led by a local Indigenous Australian guide. Follow the well-worn trails of the gorge, passing waterfalls, moss-covered trees and rare plant species towards culturally significant sites while your guide demonstrates traditional plant use, identifies bush food and shares Dreamtime stories.

This morning, you may choose to join a unique dining experience at the Curlew Café.

Afterwards, you’ll be transferred to Cairns Airport for your onward flight to Sydney. On arrival, take in the sights of this iconic city as you head to the Sydney Harbour Marriott for check-in, where the remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax, explore, or soak up the vibrant atmosphere.

Enhance Your Journey — Breakfast with the Birds

At this special "Breakfast with the Birds" event, feast on delicious breakfast platters brimming with tropical antipasto, baked goods, eggs of the day and more. Enjoy the company of the local wildlife, including the resident koala and colorful birds such as parrots, galahs and cockatoos.

Explore the best of Sydney today with a sightseeing tour that combines the city’s rich culture and coastal beauty. After breakfast at your hotel, embark on an insider’s tour of the incredible Sydney Opera House. Accompanied by a local guide, go ‘beneath the sails’ of this legendary performance arts center to discover the story behind the incredible architecture, the famous performances and the fascinating history of this Australian masterpiece.

Afterwards, board the Manly Ferry at Circular Quay for the 30-minute trip to Manly, the charming beachside suburb famous for its stunning beaches, outdoor cafes and surf shops. The afternoon is yours to take in the spectacular views or try the local seafood at one of Manly’s renowned beachfront fish and chips eateries (own expense).

Later, you'll be escorted to Darling Harbour where a super cruiser awaits to whisk you off on an unforgettable Sydney Harbour sunset dinner cruise. As your ship sails at a leisurely four knots, savor a delicious three-course dinner while passing iconic sights, including the Prime Minister residence at Kirribilli House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the world-famous Sydney Opera House.

Begin your final morning in Sydney with a relaxed breakfast at your hotel before a transfer to the airport for your onward flight.