Australia

Join Sue Chisholm on this fabulous private group tour of the East Coast of Australia, including Hamilton Island in the Whitsunday islands, Brisbane, Cairns and Port Douglas including cruising the Great Barrier Reef, a Kuranda tour, Brisbane city sightseeing and the Lone Pine Sanctuary with the opportunity to hold a Koala! Ask about our optional 3 night add-on to Melbourne. Don’t miss this one time opportunity to see the best of  Australia!

To book or for more information contact:

Maritime Travel – Surrey
604 377-3678 | 604 575-5097 | 604.531.3307
Email: schisholm@maritimetravel.ca

OR

February 15 – 28, 2025

Without Melbourne – $4595
With Melbourne – $5775

INCLUDES

  • Accommodation based in 4 star properties with private facilities
  • Breakfast x 13, Lunch x 3, Dinner x 1
  • Transfers as indicated by private vehicle
  • Touring as indicated in the itinerary
  • Whitehaven Beach Cruise (includes lunch)
  • Mirimar Lone Pine Cruise (includes one way cruise to Lone Pine, entry)
  • Koala Hold Experience at Lone Pine
  • Brisbane City Sights Tour (includes guide, driver and exclusive use of vehicle, sightseeing)
  • Brisbane Walking Dinner Private Tour (includes dinner, guide)
  • Great Barrier Reef Cruise (includes hotel pick up/drop off, morning & afternoon refreshments, snorkeling, lunch, reef tax)
  • Kuranda scheduled Tour (includes hotel pick up/drop off, one way Skyrail, one way Kuranda Scenic Rail in Gold Class)
  • Melbourne City Sights Private Tour (includes hotel pick up, expert driver/guide, exclusive use of vehicle, morning tea, entry to Melbourne Skydeck)
  • Great Ocean Road Private Tour (includes hotel pick up/drop off, expert driver/guide, exclusive use of vehicle, entry fees, lunch)
  • Australian Goods & Services Tax (GST) @ 10 %

Itinerary

These days you are on your own arrangements to enjoy Sydney. Radiating from the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour, Australia’s largest city stretches from the shores
of the Pacific Ocean to the foot of the Blue Mountains. Along with outstanding natural assets – stunning beaches, extensive parklands and the vast expanse of the harbour – Sydney boasts an impressive list of urban attractions, including world class shopping venues and a host of superb restaurants and nightclubs. Its cityscape ranges from sandstone buildings of Georgian elegance to skyscrapers of futuristic design.

Sydney to Hamilton Island (Air)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Hamilton Island. Upon arrival on Hamilton Island, you will be transferred to your accommodation. The island has its own airport with direct flights from Melbourne, Sydney, Cairns or Brisbane or it can be accessed by fast catamaran from Airlie Beach on the mainland thus providing access for those wishing to travel by train or coach. There are also over 10 restaurants and six take away outlets on the island with a huge range of cuisine including the freshest seafood. Activities for guests on the island are very extensive with a range of over 40 activities including, beach cruises, water skiing, wind surfing, catamaran and yacht sailing, gymnasium, tennis, game fishing, nature walks, Koala gallery, sea kayaking, scenic flights, safari tours, Great Barrier Reef tours or simply just relaxing by one of the six resort pools. The island also features fantastic shopping with over 20 boutiques and specialty stores throughout the marina village and the resort centre. With over 70% of the island protected as National Park, it is easy to escape into natural Australian bushland, swim on remote beaches, see native Australian wildlife, and absorb some of the Whitsundays best views from a number of spectacular lookouts & peaks. With challenging and rewarding walking trails traversing the island, it is easy to experience the natural beauty of this unique Australian treasure. The 4-Star Reef View Hotel is famous for the views from its Coral Sea View rooms and Suites, without doubt amongst the best in the world. The hotel has its own swimming pool, lounge, restaurant, concierge and tour desk and complimentary guest access to the Hamilton Island Sports Club. With large, comfortable, modern rooms, the Reef View Hotel offers a perfect getaway for couples, families or groups of friends. Spacious, comfortable and with most rooms boasting incredible sea views, the Reef View Hotel offers stylish and family-friendly Hamilton Island accommodation. All of the Reef View Hotel’s rooms are large and well-appointed, with private balconies. Every room offers a stunning view – either out over the sparkling Coral Sea, or the island’s lush tropical gardens. The Reef View Hotel is located directly opposite Catseye Beach and is close to many of the island’s restaurants, activities and entertainment.

Accommodation: Reef View Hotel (Coral Sea View Room)

Whitehaven & Hill Inlet Cruise (B, L)
Breakfast will be served this morning. 8:30am Depart on your full day cruise.

Spend the whole day experiencing all the wonders of the magnificent Whitehaven Beach area. Indulge in the ultimate experience of Whitehaven Beach; from the northern end exploring the spectacular Hill Inlet, to the southern – swimming, hiking, sunbathing, soaking up the sun. No other day cruise offered allows you so much time to explore the wonders of Whitehaven beach. Cruise to superb, 7km-long Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island. From the beach’s northern end, a leisurely 1.3km-return guided hike to Hill Inlet lookout  follows a path walked by the Whitsundays’ traditional owners, the Ngaro people. Back at Whitehaven’s southern end, swim or relax on the sand, or tackle the stairs to the Whitehaven Beach Lookout and view the length of Whitehaven Beach. A delicious gourmet burger is waiting for you back on the Whitehaven sand.

• Scenic Cruise through the Whitsunday Islands, with a brief pick-up stop at Daydream Island and Hamilton Island to collect more guests.
• Up to 6 hours on Whitehaven Beach
• Guided walk to Hill Inlet and Lookout
• Walk to Whitehaven Beach Lookout
• An authentic BBQ on the beach
• Morning and afternoon tea
• Beach games
• Protective stinger suits
• Dedicated host for the duration of the day

Physical rating: Please be advised that a moderate level of fitness and agility is recommended for this experience, which includes bushwalking, and climbing in and out of tenders. High temperatures and humidity are possible, especially in the summer months.
What to bring:

• Swimwear and beach towel
• Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and protective clothing
• Light jacket/sweater for a cool or windy day
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera

Reef View Hotel
(Coral Sea View Room)

Day At Leisure (B)
Breakfast will be served this morning.
Today is free to enjoy Hamilton Island at your leisure.

Reef View Hotel
(Coral Sea View Room)

Hamilton Island to Brisbane (Air) (B)

Breakfast will be served this morning.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Brisbane.
Upon arrival in Brisbane, transfer by private vehicle to your accommodation.
The fabulous weather, abundant subtropical vegetation and all-round relaxed attitude make Brisbane a city distinctly different from any other. The Brisbane River winds through the city to Moreton Bay – its curves offer numerous spots for waterside recreation and spectacular views. Brisbane’s hilly terrain provides a beautiful backdrop for the city, with colourful Jacaranda trees, old Queenslander homes, and sandstone buildings that sit among city skyscrapers.
The centre of Brisbane is full of contrasts: young corporates in summer suits stride past relaxed locals and tourists in shorts, singlets and sandles; glass skyscrapers tower above old public squares landscaped with lush foliage and leafy trees; and modern restaurants and shopping malls contrast with historic public buildings from the 19th century. Discover contemporary, 4-star accommodation at Pacific Hotel Brisbane. Overlooking the city skyline and Roma St Parklands, comfort meets style throughout the spacious guest rooms; all featuring generous open-aired balconies, free wi-fi and modern amenities. Whether you’re coming to Brisbane for business or pleasure, the Pacific Hotel is just minutes from the city, the river, Suncorp Stadium and public transport if you need to venture further. It’s a terrific location to catch a show, sports game, concert or simply shop ‘til you drop.

Pacific Hotel Brisbane (Superior Rooms)

Mirimar Lone Pine Cruise – City Sights Private Tour (B)

Breakfast will be served this morning.
8:30am This morning, please transfer to the departure point (Cultural Centre Pontoon) of the MV Miramar for your cruise along the Brisbane River to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.

9:00am Begin the day with a relaxing river adventure on the historic MV Mirimar and spend a fascinating Cruise to the world famous Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary — See the Bat Colony and hear the story of Brisbane. The cruise aboard Brisbane’s most famous river Boat, MV Mirimar, takes you 19 kilometres (12 miles) upstream through some of the City ‘s most attractive suburbs and most interesting wildlife habitats. You’ll see modern mansions alongside graceful “Old Queenslander ” homes with their wide verandas and wrought iron lacework — all overlooking lush river-front gardens. Come close to flying foxes (fruit bats) in the wild. You’ll have the opportunity to get a close up view of a unique inner-city colony of fruit bats — so close you can hear the beating of their wings. And you’ll learn about Brisbane’s past — some of it amusing and some of it horrifying as the Captain recalls our history. His local knowledge will amaze you! The Mirimar is a large and comfortable cruise boat with a licensed bar and tea/coffee facilities for your comfort.

10:15am  All this before you arrive at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, with the return trip you have a full two hours to cuddle a Koala, hand feed Kangaroos and marvel at Australia’s many more animal wonders. Light snacks, rolls and hot or cold drinks are available for purchase on the Mirimar.
Arrive to Lone Pine. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is set on 50 acres of riverside land and is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, with over 130 koalas. Cuddle a koala anytime, hand feed kangaroos and encounter a large variety of Aussie wildlife, all in beautiful, natural settings.

1:00pm Please meet your driver for your private tour of Brisbane.

Travel past the sandstone buildings of the GPO and Macarthur House. See the Anzac memorial and Shrine of Remembrance. Pass through some of Brisbane’s fashionable suburbs and pass the famous XXXX Brewery. See the South Bank Parklands and pass the Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens and the Brisbane Planetarium.
Finish the afternoon with a spectacular view from Mt Coot-tha Lookout. Only 8 kilometres from the centre of the city on a clear day you can see as far as the Glasshouse Mountains and Moreton and Stradbroke Island.

5:00pm Your tour will conclude at the hotel.

Pacific Hotel Brisbane (Superior Rooms)

Day At Leisure – Evening Walking Dinner Tour (B, D) 

Breakfast will be served this morning.
Enjoy your day at leisure.

5:00pm  Your guide will meet you at hotel Reception to take you on your private walking/dining tour of Brisbane.
Discover some of Brisbane’s best hidden gems and speciality drinking and dining spots on this four stop experience. This tour will take you on a flavoursome journey from underground venues to hidden laneway destinations.
At these CBD hidden gems you will enjoy everything from liquor tastings or cocktails, classic bar snacks, Mediterranean tapas, European wines and beers, a taste of the Americas with Latin American dishes or Asian street food, plus a dessert or cocktail to finish, and plenty of other drinks along the way! Brisbane is certainly no longer a big country town. It has come of age, and it’s not just in the new or updated precincts that you will find cool venues, foodie laneways, and hard-to-find venues with exceptional quality dishes and drinks. Brisbane’s CBD is full of all these things and this experience is dedicated to showcasing you some of the city’s finest.

9:00pm Your dinner tour concludes.

Accommodation:

Pacific Hotel Brisbane (Superior Rooms)

Brisbane to Cairns (Air) – Cairns to Port Douglas (Private Transfer)(B)

Breakfast will be served this morning. Transfer by to the airport for your flight to Cairns.  Upon arrival in Cairns, transfer to your accommodation in Port Douglas.  Sharing the same tropical latitude as Tahiti, “Port” (as it is affectionately called by the locals) has a distinctive “laid back” low rise tropical old world charm, an international array of world class restaurants and shopping. Despite its fame and popularity, it still retains a close community atmosphere. Port Douglas is now regarded by many as the most popular base from which to explore the northern areas of the Great Barrier Reef and rainforest coast of Daintree and Cape Tribulation.

Port Douglas, once a fishing village, is now one of the leading tourist towns of Far North Queensland due mainly to its proximity to the wonders of the reef and the rainforest and its superb year-round climate. All the natural beauty is supported by numerous restaurants, delightful shops, and historic Queenslander buildings.

Port Douglas is one of the most cosmopolitan and fashionable resort destinations in Tropical North Queensland. Visitors not only come to explore the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, Mossman Gorge, the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, but to shop at the many designer boutiques and art galleries, experience the Sunday markets, enjoy a bike ride along Four Mile Beach or take a drive along the coastal road to Cairns, Palm Cove and beyond.
Mantra PortSea offers the perfect accommodation solution for a relaxing getaway or carefree family holiday in Port Douglas. Nestled amongst lush tropical rainforests and on the doorstep of the magnificent Great Barrier Reef, Mantra PortSea Port Douglas offers comfort and convenience with a selection of hotel rooms, one & two bedroom studios and two bedroom apartments. Located just 100m from the beach and within a 15 minute walk of Port Douglas’ village centre, Mantra PortSea features a lagoon style pool with swim-up bar and waterslide, all surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens. Mantra PortSea resort is the perfect choice for singles, couples and families looking for a relaxed North Queensland holiday. During your stay make the most of our amazing location and explore the breathtaking Daintree Rainforest – the oldest rainforest on earth, or take a boat ride out to the magnificent Great Barrier Reef which stretches over 2500 kilometres along the north coast of Queensland.

Mantra Portsea Port Douglas (One Bedroom Studio Room)

Full Day Great Barrier Reef Cruise (B, L) 

Breakfast will be served this morning.

9:30am Please meet your Quicksilver representative at the Garrick Street Entrance of the hotel for your Great Barrier Reef Cruise.
For your experience of a lifetime, Quicksilver’s 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. Quicksilver takes you to Agincourt Reef, a magnificent ribbon reef where you can experience first hand the magic that is the Great Barrier Reef. Upon boarding the vessel, complimentary morning tea/coffee is served. For your safety, hot drinks are not served once the vessel is underway. Passengers are required to be onboard the vessel 15 minutes before departure. Depart Marina Mirage for the Outer Barrier Reef. A Marine Biologist presentation is shown on the vessel monitors 30 minutes after departure. A snorkeling demonstration follows the Marine Biologist presentation. Arrive at the Outer Barrier Reef where the reef activities commence. Enjoy swimming and snorkelling from submerged platforms. There is an underwater observatory open for coral and fish viewing. Semi-subs depart every fifteen minutes from the rear of the platform. There is fish feeding conducted at the snorkeling platform at advertised times. Lunch is served between 12.00noon and 1.30pm. Enjoy a hot and cold tropical buffet, containing fresh prawns, pastas, meats, salads and fruit. There are full bar facilities available where you can purchase drinks. After lunch there is time for more activity or just relax and take in the view!! Departure from Agincourt Reef for Port Douglas is approximately 3.00pm with a reef video viewing on the return journey. Arrival at Marina Mirage, Port Douglas is at approximately 4.30pm. Return transfer to your accommodation.
Morning and afternoon teas on board. Reef presentation by marine biologist. Hot and cold tropical smorgasbord lunch. All snorkeling equipment provided. Return Wavepiercer cruise from Port Douglas Qualified snorkeling safety officers on hand Underwater observatory fish & coral viewing Coral viewing by semi-submersible vessels Fish feeding [conducted by crew]

Mantra Portsea Port Douglas (One Bedroom Studio Room)

Kuranda Tour (B) 

Breakfast will be served this morning.
Transfer by private vehicle to Skyrail.

11:00am Board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway which will take you skimming over the pristine rainforest canopy. Stop for short walks at Barron Falls and Red Peak which offer stunning views and time to explore the forest floor. You will see sensational views of the Coral Sea, Green Island, Cairns City, lush tableland region and mountain ranges as Skyrail takes you to Kuranda.
Arriving at beautiful Kuranda, Spend some time exploring this quaint Village.

3:30pm Board the Kuranda Scenic Rail for a spectacular journey with stunning views. Pass massive Baron Falls, Stoney Creek and cross steep ravines. Enjoy the KSR Gold Class experience – a special rail journey for the discerning traveler desiring a more luxurious, personalized touring experience. Sipping on sparkling wine or a cold beer and savouring delicious finger foods whilst enjoying the breathtaking natural wonders.

5:00pm Upon arrival at Freshwater Station transfer to your accommodation.

Mantra Portsea Port Douglas (One Bedroom Studio Room)

Day at Leisure (B)

Breakfast will be served this morning.
Today is free to enjoy Port Douglas at your leisure.

Mantra Portsea Port Douglas (One Bedroom Studio Room)

Port Douglas to Cairns (Private Coach Transfer) Cairns to Melbourne (Air) (B)

Breakfast will be served this morning.
Transfer by private coach to the airport for your flight to an onward destination.
Your tour ends with departure to Cairns Airport.

Cairns to Melbourne (Air) — OPTIONAL TOUR (This is optional trip to Melbourne after finishing tour in Cairns) 

Upon arrival in Melbourne, transfer to your accommodation. Melbourne is a multicultural city with a vibrant artistic life and is regarded as one of the culinary, sporting and shopping capitals of Australia, with a wide selection of museums, art galleries, theatres and festivals.
Melbourne’s city centre is a thick mesh of straight lines; within lies a world brimming with energy, ideas and diversity. Gothic banks and cathedrals give way to pockets of the most modern architecture. Department stores and shopping centres coexist with a vibrant string of laneways give over to café culture and boutique shopping. Melbourne’s trams are an icon, but also a very good way of getting around the city.

The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins, located in the heart of the Melbourne’s CBD, is less than a minute’s walk to Southern Cross Station. The Hotel, built in 1928, maintains its reputation as one of Melbourne’s most sophisticated yet modern hotels with convenient amenities for its local and international visitors. The historic Palazzo exterior blends perfectly with the beautiful Art Deco style interior, featuring 163 spacious guest rooms, including 6 luxurious suites which boast beautiful views across the city. The rooms display a contemporary design that reflects the building’s Art Deco origins, dating back to its 1928 beginnings. Plush furnishings and lighting make the guest rooms feel spacious yet comfortable. The hotel ground floor lobby is elegant and spacious exhibiting classic hues. The second-floor restaurant features a spectacular atrium spanning the 10 floors above, flooding the space with natural light. In the evening, Art Deco chandeliers light the space.
Conveniently positioned to take advantage of Melbourne’s tram and railway network, you won’t have to travel far to explore all this most livable city has to offer. Take a leisurely stroll down the block to Collins Street, home to Melbourne Town Hall, three inspiring historic churches, and two live theatres dating back as far as the early 1900s. This tree-lined street, with its mix of history, restaurants, and first-class shopping, extends past Spencer Street and into the exciting new Docklands precinct. A short walk across the Yarra River will see you on the Yarra Promenade, where first class dining and a plethora of name brand shopping awaits. No matter how you spend your day, The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins is the perfect place to come home to. The Savoy restaurant offers a  sumptuous breakfast and The Alexander Bar has delectable food available any time of the day along with a host of refreshing beverages – both great places to meet friends, family or business contacts. For those who wish to relax, recharge and rejuvenate, V Hotel Spa is conveniently located within the hotel.

Savoy Hotel on Little Collins (Savoy Guest Rooms)

City Sights Private Tour (B)

Breakfast will be served this morning.

9:00am Please meet your driver/guide in the hotel foyer for your private sightseeing tour.
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. Make the most of your stay as you zoom in and around the city, visiting such wonders as Federation Square, the MCG and our world-famous sports precinct, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Albert Park Lake (Formula 1) and over to St Kilda Beach. You can even take a stroll in the gardens and visit St Patrick’s Cathedral when permitted. Visit world famous Albert Park, home of the Formula One, Australian Grand Prix as well as our inner-city sports precinct, home to the famous MCG and Melbourne Park where the Australian Tennis Open takes place.
Your tour will conclude Eureka Tower/Melbourne Skydeck.

1:00pm Visit Melbourne Skydeck.
At Melbourne Skydeck, the southern hemisphere’s highest observation deck, the city comes to you when you take it all in from nearly 300 metres high. It’s an experience on another level!

At the conclusion of your Melbourne Skydeck visit, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, making your own way back to the hotel.

Savoy Hotel on Little Collins (Savoy Guest Rooms)

Great Ocean Road Private Tour (B, L)

Breakfast will be served in the hotel.

8:00am Please meet your driver/guide at the front of the hotel for your private tour to the Great Ocean Road.
Take your time to experience this majestic coastal drive on the Great Ocean Road Day Tour with Oceania Tours. Travel from Melbourne with your small group and let us show you the best hiding spots for koalas and kangaroos in the wild. Cap the day off with a visit to the famous 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge.
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.
Your tour will conclude at the hotel.

Savoy Hotel on Little Collins (Savoy Guest Rooms)

Depart (B)

Breakfast will be served in the hotel.
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Terms & Conditions:

To book this tour a $400.00 per person non refundable deposit is required. The final payment is due Jan. 5, 2025. Costs Do Not Include the following: International and Domestic Airfares. Travel insurance (Highly recommended). Meals other than those indicated by (B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch and (D) Dinner. Items of a personal nature i.e. phone calls, liquor, and laundry. Use of hotel rooms before/after normal check in/out times or preregistration. Costs of optional touring. Any services not mentioned in the itinerary. Hotel/Airport Porterage. Personal travel insurance (baggage/medical/tour cancellations). Tips or gratuit. Min 10 pax.

For your security and peace of mind, we recommend you purchase Travel Insurance.

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