International Trips - Australia

Let's go to Australia!

Includes

• International r/t flight from Houston to Sydney
• Domestic flight from Sydney to Cairns
• Accommodations
• Airport transfers.
• Taxes

 Day 1: International Flight, Houston to Sydney (exact route TBD) 

After departing from Houston, TX you will be provided with an evening meal, you can relax, have a drink, watch a movie and rest. You will be given Breakfast before landing in Sydney, Australia. (You lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don’t worry you catch it up again on your return flight to the USA)

Day 2:  Australian Domestic Flight, Sydney to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to the gateway of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns.

Day 2: Coach Transfer, Cairns Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation in Cairns, Australia.

Days 2 to 3: 1 Night Accommodation in Cairns

Enjoy 1 night at your 4-Star Cairns accommodation.

Nestled in the tropical paradise of Cairns, this remarkable hotel captivates guests with its warm hospitality, exceptional service, and breathtaking views. The accommodations offer a harmonious blend of comfort and style, complemented by the hotel’s prime location near dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. From the inviting restaurant to the attentive staff, every aspect ensures an unforgettable stay. Discover a tranquil oasis in Cairns that promises cherished memories for discerning travelers.
 

Hotel Amenities
Free Wi-Fi, Swimming Pool, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Bar, Restaurant, Paid Parking, Room Service  
 

Room Details
Standard Room – 1 King or 2 Singles – Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Smart TV.

For diving enthusiasts this liveaboard dive trip represents the ultimate dive vacation. Dives include Osprey Reef, on the Coral Sea with other sites such as Cod Hole, Dynamite Pass, North Horn, Bougainville Reef, Steve’s Bommie, Temple of Doom and Flare Point. With Gourmet Meals and the Outstanding Level of Service you will feel like you are aboard your own private yacht.

Includes

• Chef-prepared drinks meals & snacks, wine and soft drinks are included with the evening meal.
• Tanks, air fills, Nautilus Lifeline and weight belt. Full equiptment rental available for fee.
• Daily cabin service.
• Cairns hotel or Airport transfers.
• Taxes and all reef levies and fees.

Excludes:

• Nitrox - Currently $270 AUD (roughly $200 USD)
• Guide’s gratuities
• Trip Insurance (highly recommended)

Day 3: Depart Cairns & Dive

The Spirit of Freedom courtesy bus will pick you up from your Cairns hotel around 11:00 am to transfer you to Trinity Wharf. There you will be greeted by the Spirit of Freedom crew, who will give you an orientation of the vessel before you depart on your 7-night liveaboard dive trip at 12:00 noon.

Enjoy lunch on board while you cruise to the Outer Great Barrier Reef for an afternoon check-out dive and a twilight or night dive.

After dinner, cruise north to the Ribbon Reefs.

Days 4 & 5: Diving Ribbon Reefs

These two days are spent diving at the most northern of the Ribbon Reefs, Number 9 & 10 Ribbon Reefs.

Dive sites and sequence may vary depending on the weather conditions, but will always include at least one dive at the Cod Hole, where you encounter a family of massive and very friendly Potato Cod. Other sites may include Wonder-wall, Pixie Pinnacle, Challenger Bay, Two Towers, Lighthouse Bommie, and the Snake Pit, just to name a few.

If the current is right, you may also take a drift dive at Dynamite Pass, well known as a channel for sharks to pass through. 4 to 5 dives will be available each day, including a night dive on Friday. On Saturday evening overnight at Watson’s Bay, Lizard Island, and enjoy a sunset BBQ dinner on the top deck.

Day 6: Mountain Walk & More Diving

This morning after breakfast you will have the opportunity to go ashore at Lizard Island. This is a good chance to stretch your legs on land at the halfway point of your trip! We recommend taking the guided walk from Watson’s Beach to Mary Watson’s cottage, over Chinaman’s Ridge, and back to the beach.

Around 11.00 am you will cruise back to Ribbon Reef Number 10 for two dives at a choice of sites including the Snake Pit, Cod Hole, Challenger Bay, Lighthouse Bommie, and Pixie Wall, and Pixie Pinnacle.

If the tide permits you may repeat a dive at the Cod Hole or visit new sites. Depart in the evening for a 10-hour crossing to Osprey Reef in the Coral Sea.

Days 7 & 8: Dive Osprey Reef

Two days will be spent diving Osprey Reef (weather permitting). Australia’s Coral Sea reefs are renowned for their crystal clear water, with visibility ranging from 30 to 100 metres. The landscape is amazing, with sheer walls laced with gorgonian fans, sea whips, and bright yellow soft corals, rising from the ocean floor thousands of feet below.

‘North Horn’ is a dive site at the tip of Osprey where grey reef sharks, silvertips, and the occasional oceanic congregate, and you can experience a close encounter with the Spirit of Freedom shark attraction dive. Four to five dives will be available each day, including a night dive on Monday.

On Tuesday night depart Osprey Reef for overnight travel to the Ribbon Reefs.

Day 9: Dive Bougainville Reef or in the Ribbon Reefs

After overnight travel back to the Great Barrier Reef arrive at Ribbon Reefs Number 3 where you will dive such sites as the sensational Steve’s Bommie, Temple of Doom, and Flare Point. A second option for this day, in special weather conditions, is to head south from Opsrey to Bougainville Reef, known for its unusual underwater landscape and caverns, and its partially submerged wreck. This evening you will cruise overnight back to Cairns.

Day 10: Arrive in Cairns

Arrive Cairns approximately 06:30am. Breakfast will be served on board and hotel transfer will be arranged for approx 8:00am.

 Room Types Available are: 

Ocean View Deluxe
Located on the top deck with internal stairwell access to the main deck, as well as external access to the top deck and dive deck, the Ocean View Deluxe Cabin boats a 10.5m² area with 3 large windows overlooking the starboard side of the vessel.

A comfy double bed will ensure you are well rested for a full day of diving. The room features bedside tables, wardrobe and 26″ flat screen TV.

The cabin is fully air-conditioned and has its own private bathroom.

Double or Sole occupancy only.

Ocean View Standard
Ocean View cabin is located on the top deck with internal stairwell access to the main deck, as well as external access to the top deck and dive deck.

As the name suggests, you will enjoy stunning views from this air conditioned 7.2m² cabin, which contains a double bed, private bathroom, a wardrobe and 26” flat screen TV.

Double or Sole Occupancy only.

Stateroom

The largest of all cabins onboard the vessel, The Stateroom cabin is located in a private area on the lower deck, close to the dive deck and dining saloon.

Fully air-conditioned, this spacious 12m² cabin contains a queen size bed, a private bathroom, extra shelving, wardrobe, bedside tables and 26″ flat screen TV.

Double or Sole Occupancy only: no twin share option available.

Standard Double/Twin
Spirit of Freedom has seven standard double or twin share cabins. Five of these cabins contain a double bed with a single bed over the top, bunk style. One cabin contains just a double bed and one cabin has two single beds.

These cabins are all located on the lower deck, with easy access to the main deck and have an average area of 10 square meters in area.

Fully air-conditioned, the cabins have an ensuite bathroom and also contain a wardrobe, personal reading light and a bedside table.

Please advise your preference for double or twin share when placing your booking. Sole occupancy also available.

Quad Share
Located midship on the lower deck, the quad share cabin containing four single beds, bunk style and is a great option for groups or families as you explore the Great Barrier Reef on your epic dive adventure.

This 9m² cabin has easy access to the main deck and includes a private ensuite bathroom and personal reading lights for each bed.

The cabin is fully air-conditioned and also contains a wardrobe, as well as storage under the bottom two bunks.

 The colorful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, Cairns city is alive with life and charm. Here, warm northern hospitality and enthusiasm are the order of the day. There are so many unique attractions and activities to see when you visit …cruise to the reef or islands, take a safari to the outback, trek into the rainforest or see it from the rainforest cableway above its green canopy on your way to or from Kuranda. Listed by the World Heritage Society and acclaimed as amongst the world’s most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. These year-round natural attractions are truly memorable and inspiring. 

Includes

• Accommodations
• Airport transfers.
• Taxes
• Domestic flight from Cairns to Ayers Rock

Enjoy 2 nights at your 4-Star Cairns accommodation. (same hotel as pre dive)

Nestled in the tropical paradise of Cairns, this remarkable hotel captivates guests with its warm hospitality, exceptional service, and breathtaking views. The accommodations offer a harmonious blend of comfort and style, complemented by the hotel’s prime location near dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. From the inviting restaurant to the attentive staff, every aspect ensures an unforgettable stay. Discover a tranquil oasis in Cairns that promises cherished memories for discerning travelers.
 

Hotel Amenities
Free Wi-Fi, Swimming Pool, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Bar, Restaurant, Paid Parking, Room Service  
 

Room Details
Standard Room – 1 King or 2 Singles – Room Features: Mini Fridge ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Smart TV.

Day 10: Disembark and Transfer to Hotel

Optional Add On Tour

 Evening Aquarium Experience with Dinner 

Day 11: Explore Cairns

Take the day and explore what could be considered the capital of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns!

A major outlet to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest amongst its many attractions, the tropical paradise of Cairns is sure to enchant you. With many area activities centrally located there’s enough to occupy everyone in the family because Cairns literally has it all! Have a visit to the Esplanade where you can experience all walks of life and make memories. With a nightlife that caters to singles and families alike your visit will be filled with so many things to do, so take a deep breath and have fun!

Things to Do...

Check out The Esplanade

Experience the leisurely atmosphere at the playground for locals and tourists alike at The Esplanade in Cairns!

With so many activities available The Esplanade has always been a focal point for this city. This is a place that literally has everything! Take a stroll and do some bird watching on the boardwalk but as you enjoy the views don’t forget to stop off at Foreshore Promenade for a bite to eat at the many available restaurants. Access to The Lagoon is easy here which is set overlooking the Barrier Reef and Trinity inlet and features all year free swimming where you can take a dip in this filtered saltwater lagoon. 

 Check Out Cairns' Top Rated 

 Restaurants 

Optional Add On Tours

 Kuranda Skyrail, Scenic Rail, & Rainforestation 

or

 Cape Tribulation & Daintree Wilderness Safari 

or

 Scenic Rainforest and Nocturnal Tour with Dinner 

Day 12: Coach Transfer, Cairns Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Cairns vacation accommodation to the Airport in Cairns, Australia.

Day 12: Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Ayers Rock

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Ayers Rock (Uluru).

  Uluru (Ayers Rock) is about 450 kilometers by road from Alice Springs; Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is home to the most recognized Australian landmark – Uluru (Ayers Rock). World-Heritage listed, Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park covers an area of approximately 1325 square kilometers of striking landscape. In addition to the Rock the park also includes Kata Tjuta (the Olgas). 

Includes

• Accommodations
• Airport transfers.
• Taxes
• Transfers for included tours
• Sunrise/Sunset tour
• Sound of Silence dinner
• Domestic flight from Ayers Rock to Sydney

Tour Specific - Sunrise/Sunset Tour Includes

• National Park Pass (Entry fee included – Valid for 3 consecutive days)
• Return transfers to accommodation
• Experienced driver/guide
• Comprehensive commentary
• Air conditioned coach  

Tour Specific - Sounds of Silence Dinner Includes

• Return transfers to Ayers Rock accommodation
• Outback style canapes
• A three-course bush tucker inspired buffet
• Didgeridoo performance
• Guided tour of the night sky 

Travel to your accommodation in the heart of Australia, the Red Centre, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 4 1/2 Star vacation accommodation is centrally located to all resorts and Australia touring facilities and offers a range of stylish accommodations, from shaded poolside rooms to the magnificent deluxe rooms overlooking the desert. You can relax from your travel in the comfort of your own private balcony or courtyard, or unwind in the hotel’s refreshing pool, sipping cocktails. It’s only a short stroll to the resort's numerous lookouts, where you can view what is arguably Australia’s best sunset. Its spectacular display of colours across the face of Uluru and the surrounding desert turns your vacation into a memorable event.

Days 12 and 13: Day Tour, Uluru Sunset & Sunrise Tour (Half Day) 

Witness the stunning Uluru sunrise and sunset, venture out on the Walpa Gorge walk at Kata Tjuta and discover the fascinating stories of Uluru on a guided base tour.

Please note that order of tours will vary depending on your arrival times and days. This is a combo tour.

Sunrise/Morning
The early rise is well worth it as you experience the two major landmarks in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Start with an amazing sunrise at Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, the Uluru sunrise viewing area. Afterwards, on the 45 kms drive to Kata Tjuta your Driver Guide will provide you with an historical overview of the National Park.

The walk through the sheer walls of Walpa Gorge won’t disappoint as you’re led into a world of rare plant species and lush evergreen scrubs.

Sunset/Afternoon
Talk a short walk at the base of Uluru with your Driver Guide and view ancient paintings and hear stories of traditional Anangu life.

Then head off to the Uluru sunset viewing area. On arrival you’ll be served from a selection of Australian wines and nibbles.

You can just sit and relax or stroll around the area to find your own personal space to watch an amazing outback sunset.

 Day 13: Night Event, Sounds of Silence Dinner Star Gazing (4 Hours) 

This dining experience offers the best of the Red Centre distilled into four magical hours under the sparkling outback sky.

You will begin with canapes and chilled sparkling wine upon a dune-top overlooking the Ulutu-Kata Tjuta National Park. As the sun sets and darkness falls, listen to the sound of a didgeridoo and join your table of fellow travelers for an unforgettable dining experience.

Your attentive staff will offer a selection of Australian wine and beer while the first course is served at your table. As the night sky twinkles to life, you will be welcomed to an interactive chef’s station where you will be served your choice from a freshly prepared, bush tucker inspired menu incorporating native bush ingredients.

Settle back and listen to the resident star-talker decode the southern night sky. Locate the Southern Cross, the signs of the zodiac, the Milky Way, as well as planets and galaxies that are visible due to the exceptional clarity of the atmosphere.

The tour finishes with a relaxing ride back to your accommodation.

 Day 14:  Australian Domestic Flight, Ayers Rock to Sydney

  Sydney is Australia’s oldest city and the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country’s capital in everything but name. Enjoy the sights of Sydney, a world class city blessed with sun-drenched natural attractions, dizzy skyscrapers, delicious and daring restaurants, superb shopping and friendly folk. You can choose to experience the beauty of the harbor, the Opera House and marvel at the expansive Sydney Harbour Bridge. Take advantage of the many tour options or just relax and go at your own pace as you enjoy the excellent restaurants and entertainment that only Sydney can offer.  

Includes

• Accommodations
• Airport transfers.
• Taxes
• Transfers for included tours
• 1 Day unlimited ferry pass to travel Sydney Harbour 
• One hour guided Opera House experience. 
• Return flight Sydney to Houston

Enjoy 3 nights at your 4-Star Sydney accommodation.

With its sleek and contemporary design, this hotel in the heart of Sydney offers a stylish and comfortable retreat for business and leisure travelers alike. The guest rooms feature minimalist decor, plush bedding, and essential amenities. The rooftop pool and terrace provide stunning city skyline views, while the on-site restaurant serves delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Additional facilities include a fitness center, meeting rooms, and a business center. With its central location, guests have easy access to attractions, shopping, and vibrant nightlife. This trendy and memorable hotel delivers a memorable stay in Sydney.

Hotel Amenities
Free Wifi, Swimming Pool, Gym, Day Spa, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Babysitting, Bar, Restaurant, Room Service, Non-Smoking, Off-Site Paid Parking, Dry Cleaning

Room Details
Guest Room – 1 King OR 1 Queen OR 2 Singles – Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station, Free WiFi, Air Conditioning, Shower Amenities, Hairdryer, Safe, Iron and Ironing Board, Flat Screen TV, iPod Docking Station, Shower Over Bath.

Day 14: Private Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation

Travel by private car from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

Allow a chauffeur to drive you to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

 Day 15: Day Tour, Hop-on-Hop-off Sydney Harbour Cruise (1 Day Pass)

Enjoy this single day unlimited ferry pass to explore the beautiful Sydney Harbour and the magnificent attractions that surround it!

Discover Sydney the local way with this 1 day unlimited ferry pass to travel the harbor. Stops along the way include Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, Watson’s Bay, Manly, Taronga Zoo, Clifton Gardens, and Shark Island. Enjoy the flexibility of exploring while you travel at your leisure soaking in the harbor air on your way to your next destination!

Hop off to enjoy these harbor attractions:
– Circular Quay: Bounded by the Sydney Harbour Bridge and historic Rocks district to the west, and the Sydney Opera House and Botanic Gardens to the east, Circular Quay is a bustling ferry hub.
– Taronga Zoo: Over 4,000 animals, including Australian native wildlife. Free daily seal and bird shows. Purchase the Zoo and Explorer combo and save.
– Shark Island: It would be hard to find a more spectacular picnic spot. Stunning, 360-degree views of Sydney Harbour and a delightfully deserted national park for your own private getaway.
– Watsons Bay: Local must-do `Watto’ is famous for its seafood, waterfront pubs, picnic spots, swimming beaches and spectacular headlands walks overlooking the Harbour and the Pacific Ocean.
– Manly Beach: You don’t have to swim at this iconic beach to soak up the atmosphere. Shop at the Corso, dine at waterfront cafés, find your favorite gelato flavor or take a nature walk.
– Darling Harbour: Start or finish your day at Darling Harbour, surrounded by restaurants, nightclubs and hotels at King Street Wharf, Barangaroo and Cockle Bay.
–Clifton Gardens: Clifton Gardens is a beachside oasis in the affluent Harbour suburb of Mosman. The netted beach, long jetty and gentle waves makes it perfect for picnics, swimming and snorkeling.

 Day 15: Day Tour, Guided Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hour)

On your vacation, participate in an inspiring tour of the Sydney Opera House.

This one hour tour outlines the intricate and controversial history of the Sydney Opera House along with details of the unique design of this architectural masterpiece. You will visit a number of the six performance venues, including the magnificent wood paneled Concert Hall and the Opera Theater as well as the new Utzon room. You will also visit the glass enclosed northern foyer areas which boast spectacular views of Sydney Harbour – a perfect photo opportunity.

Day 16: Explore Sydney

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

Walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbor-side Taronga Park Zoo or take the 30 minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, Sydney’s premier beach resort. Here you can enjoy the laid back beach culture as well as many festivals and events. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is approximately a 10-minute train ride and is one of Australia’s most famous and iconic beaches. Save some time to take a beach walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach, it’s known to be a true highlight. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

Optional Add On Tours

  The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour 

or

  Blue Mountains Deluxe Tour 

or

  Sydney Bridge Climb 

Day 17: Private Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

Allow a chauffeur in a private car drive you from your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

Day 17: International Flight, Sydney to Houston (exact route TBD)

Please confirm with the airlines at Check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record.