Beaches and Reefs (Reverse)

Accomodations
* 14 nights in special Contiki accommodation based on twin share * Breakfasts (B), Lunches (L), and Dinners (D) - as per itinerary

The Contiki Difference
* Free Contiki 'Travellers Guide' information book * Free Contiki document wallet

Depart for Australia (2 Days)
Fly over the international date line on your way to Australia.

Arrive Cairns ( Days)
Check into the Cairns Colonial Club Resort and the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore.

Cairns ( Days)
After breakfast, we make our way to the rainforest village of Kuranda to join the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. Learn about Australia’s indigenous culture, have a go at throwing a boomerang and watch the highly-skilled spear throwing demonstration. Take in a traditional dance performance and listen to stories from the Dreamtime. Use your free time to explore the quaint village and local markets. Then return to Cairns for your final night in the city.

Cairns ( Days)
Wake up to the warm waters of Cairns. For those who are keen for a fun and thrilling ride on the rapids of the Tully River, join our optional white-water rafting adventure activity with our professional Local Guides. There are loads more activities available in Cairns like hot air ballooning, sky diving and bungy jumping – just ask your Tour Manager for some more info. In your free time on the first night, walk around the buzzing night markets. It’s the perfect place for shopping and with everything from fun, kitsch treasures to local crafts like boomerangs and didgeridoos. There’s something for everyone. On Day 2, there’s another chance to experience the Great Barrier Reef on an optional day trip. Put on your snorkel gear and check out colourful fish, turtles, vivid coral and the incredible clear waters. Later, hit the seaside esplanade back in Cairns, sit down with a coffee and people watch. For your last night in this city, there’s a chance to head down to a local hot-spot for a group dinner if you’re up for it.

Cairns to the Whitsundays (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
Relax on the coach as we cruise past thick, tropical rainforests into Tully, home to some of Australia’s best white-water rafting. Slowly leaving the tropics behind us, we hit Townsville for some free time. Check out the colonial buildings and get a feel for its maritime past as we drive to the downtown pedestrian-only area where you can grab some lunch. See vistas over Magnetic Island, a National Park and bird sanctuary, before we continue our travels south and board a boat out to stunning Daydream Island in the Whitsundays. As we cruise, soak up the crystal clear waters, white sands and mountain peaks of the islands.

The Whitsundays (Breakfast, Breakfast Days)
After an included continental breakfast, day 1 is a free day to enjoy the picture-perfect Whitsundays. If you’re keen to explore further afield and see the UNESCO listed Great Barrier Reef first hand, choose our optional trip to the Outer Barrier Reef. Our fun Local Guides will kit you out with snorkel gear and show you around this natural wonder. Otherwise, slow the pace down, kick back and make the most of the fantastic facilities available at the resort. Go for a rainforest walk, swim in the pool, get into some beach or water sports, try your hand at fish-feeding, catch a film at the big outdoor cinema or laze about on the beach. Resort (B) On day 2, get away from it all with our optional day sail. Check out some of the Whitsunday’s 74 islands from the boat - you’ll soon understand why this region is so famous. Experience what is known as one of the top ten beaches in the world, the uninhabited Whitehaven Beach. Swim off the boat and play beach volleyball or cricket with the local skipper and crew before enjoying a tasty lunch and a few drinks on the way back to Daydream Island.

The Whitsundays to Country Homestead (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
After a ferry back to the mainland, plug in you MP3 or chat with friends as we drive through scenic Mackay, with countryside full of vibrant green vegetation and sugar cane plantations. Continue down the Capricorn Coast and head inland to an authentic country homestead, right in the heart of Queensland’s cattle country, for our overnight stay. During our time at Langmorn, a working cattle station, you’ll experience a taste of real Aussie country life. The farmer will show you around the enormous property in a behind-the-scenes look at daily life on the farm. Then taste local hospitality tonight as your welcoming hosts pile your table high with a hearty roast dinner. Later, have a go at whip cracking under night lights and if it’s cool, settle in around the bonfire, kick back with a drink and hang out with your new friends.

Country Homestead to Fraser Island (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
We drive back out to the coast this morning after breakfast and jump on board a ferry. Enjoy the cruise out to famous Fraser Island, where we’ll stay at an eco-lodge for our time here. Each cabin has its own kitchenette and living room, as well as a balcony – perfect for hanging out & watching the sunset. Tonight, feast on our included buffet dinner at the Dingo Bar with the group and follow it up with some dancing or even karaoke.

Fraser Island ( Days)
Experience a slice of paradise on Fraser Island today. This UNESCO World Heritage listed site is the largest sand island in the world and is 800,000 years old. Packed with around 40 fresh-water lakes, lush rainforests and diverse wildlife, Fraser Island lives up to its amazing reputation. There’s a regular shuttle from our accommodation down to the main resort area, so you can take off and explore at your own pace. With optional Fraser Island day tours, our Eco-Rangers will show you some of the island’s best spots and hidden treasures – make sure you keep your camera handy - this is one of Australia’s most beautiful regions. Head along 75 Mile Beach and make a stop at the gorgeous freshwater lake, Lake McKenzie, where you can have a swim. If its whale season and the conditions are right, there’s a half day tour out on Hervey Bay, where you can see these incredible animals in their natural habitat. With a free night, you could join your Tour Manager for drinks at sunset and a meal down by the water.

Fraser Island to Surfers Paradise (Breakfast Days)
Once we’re back on the mainland, Noose is up next. It’s a trendy beach resort town. You could go local and grab some fish’n’chips to take down to the beach for lunch or head to the Surf Club for a bite to eat. We also stop off in Brisbane today. You’ll get a feel for the capital of Queensland’s laid-back atmosphere when we have a look around town. There’s an opal presentation here where you’ll learn all about Australia’s national gemstone. Have a go at rock-cracking and maybe even pick up a piece of opal to take back home. Tonight, we pull into legendary Surfers Paradise, the Gold Coast’s party hot spot and home to some of the best surfing beaches in the world. Grab some of your new friends and join the party atmosphere of Surfers Paradise tonight. With loads of restaurants and buzzing nightlife, there’s something for everybody. Head to the happening Orchid or Cavill Avenues, where clubs and bars line the street or shoot some pool at the pub.

Surfers Paradise ( Days)
With a free day, hang out among the bronzed bodies and surfers on the golden sands. Our hotel is only a short walk from the beach. For adrenaline-junkies, there’s an optional tandem skydive, where you can get your thrills and an amazing bird’s eye view over the area. Otherwise, try out some kayaking or even a Harley Davidson ride – your Tour Manager can help you get the most out of your time here. You could also hit the shops – Surfers has some great places to shop and a huge outlet mall for bargains, so get some tips from your Tour Manager. Tonight, there’s the chance to experience ‘Draculas’ – a fun vampire-themed cabaret show and dinner. Watch dancers, singers and comedians perform as you tuck into a three course meal.

Surfers Paradise to Coffs Harbour (Surf Village) (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
This morning, we visit the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where you’ll get up close to Australia’s amazing native animals. Cuddle a koala, feed the kangaroos and see wombats, emus, crocodiles, dingoes, Tasmanian devils and colourful birds. You can feel good about doing this too, as our visits to this not-for-profit organisation go towards the sanctuary’s animal hospital and help over 4000 injured animals every year. Next up: gorgeous Byron Bay. With a laid-back lifestyle, cute little shops, organic food, alternative therapies and around 30km of pretty beaches, it’s a must see. Byron Bay is also known for its incredible marine life. Head out to Cape Byron, Australia’s most easterly point and see dolphins and humpback whales if you’re lucky, then grab some lunch back in town and maybe take a swim at the beach. Later we arrive in Coffs Harbour, home to surf beaches, fishing and banana plantations. This is a chance for a real Aussie experience – we’re staying at a Surf Camp. Our cabins are right on the beach, so soak up the surf vibes and relax by the open fire under the stars tonight.

Coffs Harbour to Shoal Bay (Port Stephens) (Breakfast, Dinner Days)
Jump start the day by hitting the waves & learning to surf with some professional instructors as you have a go at Australia’s national sport in a fun optional activity. This afternoon, we arrive in the popular holiday spot of Port Stephens, known for its boating, fishing and warm hospitality. Stretch your legs with a walk along the beach. Tonight, toast your travels with your group, Tour Manager and Driver over a typical Aussie BBQ dinner and kick back with a few local beers.

Shoal Bay to Sydney (Breakfast Days)
This morning you can join our optional dolphin cruise tour and get up close to some bottlenose dolphins, or choose our sand-boarding optional and hit the massive dunes. It’s onto Sydney. From the high-energy downtown area to its popular beaches, Sydney has something for everyone. Get familiar with the city on a sightseeing tour with your Tour Manager. First up, we head into the historic district where you’ll get an overview of the glistening harbour from Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, a famous sandstone seat carved by convicts. You’ll soon understand why this is one the world’s most beautiful harbour cities. See the sails of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Sydney Opera House and the iconic Harbour Bridge and maybe even get a feel for the sun and surf lifestyle of Bondi Beach.

Finish Sydney ( Days)
Say a final farewell to your new friends as your trip ends this morning.

Don't miss our current specials: $150 off Europe Trips of 8 days or more Save $300 on Airfare - Find out how Book a Contiki to Europe & save $300 on airfare per couple. They've got deals for solo travelers also. Valid for new bookings made between March 1st-30th only and must pay air portion in full by March 30, 2010.  Offer is valid for $300 off airfare per couple or $150 off if single traveler.  All travel myst be completed by NOv 30, 2010.  Offer is valid on major airlines.  Air tickets are non-refundable and non-changeable after purchase.  Once payment is received, 100% cancellation penalties apply.  No name changes allowed once a reservation is made.  Offer is subject to availability at the time of booking.  Offer can be combined with all brochure discounts and $150 Spring Flin tour promo.  Promotion can be withdrawn at any time.   CONTIKI MILITARY DISCOUNT 5% Off for Military Members and Spouses... Valid for any Contiki trip 8 days or longer. Active or non-active members are eligible, as long as a valid military ID is provided for each person applying the discount. Mention promo code MILITARY0910 to redeem. Applies to new bookings only. Verification is required. Good for travel through 12/31/2010 Spouses must be traveling at the same time as the military member to apply the discount. Other restrictions may apply. 5% off for Contiki Alumni So you've experienced your Contiki and are ready to go again?  You lived it up with travelers from around the world and want more Contiki.  Now book another trip 8 days or longer and get 5% off! Offer valid through August 31, 2010. Valid for trips 8 days or longer. Please call uoo-942-3301 for more details. Verification of previous trip required. Travel With Friends and Save Big! Save 5% Get 4 or more people to book at the same time and each save 5% off the land. Save 7.5% Book 7 or more on the same vacation at the same time and score a 7.5% discount per person. Round up 10 friends or more, booking the same trip at the same time, and each person saves 10% OR the 11th person travels for FREE. Book 3 in a room and save 5% on most superior tours. Early Payment and Other Amazing Contiki Discounts Early Payment Discount Offer #1: Save up to US$399 Must book and pay in full at least 12 months prior to trip departure date. Valid for select trips only.   Offer #2: Save up to US$319 Must book and pay in full at least 6 months prior to departure date. Valid for select trips only.   Multiple Trip Discounts - Save $100 Book any 2 Contiki trips 10 days or longer, at the same time & get up to US$100 off the cost of the second tour. Europe Europe – Save US$100 Europe America – Save US$100 Europe + Great Britain – Save US$100 Tours may be in different countries or regions. Australia & New Zealand - Save $100 Book an Australia and New Zealand vacation at the same time and save US$100 off the total cost. Tours must be a minimum of 10 days.   Refer a Friend and You Both Save $100 Share the love! Now that you’ve traveled Contiki and had a great time, it’s time to spread the word and earn some cash! Tell your friends about Contiki and earn up to $100* for each person you refer that books. Your friends score from the deal too – each one that books a trip eight days or longer will receive $100 in excursion vouchers (good for activities like bungee jumping, gondola cruises and wine tasting). You can refer up to 10 friends (which equals $1,000 for you!) Simply complete this form and you're on your way. Remember, no cheating ("me, myself and I" do not qualify.) Terms and Conditions: 1.The referral program is valid for new trips booked as of May 1, 2009. 2.You can refer as many passengers as you’d like! You must provide valid names and e-mail addresses (e.g. you may not enter your own e-mail address or repeat the same address more than once). We will issue up to 10 $100 gift cards per Referrer per calendar year. Referees must be new passengers. Not combinable with Past Passenger discount. 3.Referee must between 18-35 years old at the time of travel. 4.Referee must have been referred online and must mention "Refer a Friend" and Referrer's name when booking their trip. 5.Upon booking their trip, the Referee will receive in their travel documentation $100 in Optional Excursion vouchers. The original Optional Excursion vouchers can be redeemed while on their trip and cannot be exchanged for cash reimbursement. 6.The Referred passenger(s) are responsible for reviewing their travel documentation and making sure they received the Optional Excursion Vouchers prior to their departure from the United States. Contiki will not issue a cash refund to passenger(s) for any Optional Excursion because the Referred passenger(s) paid the tour manager directly, forgot to pack or bring the vouchers on the tour, did not use the entire value of the vouchers, looses the vouchers, or advises us after their travel that they did not receive the vouchers. 7.If booking is made within 14 days of the departure, we cannot guarantee receipt of physical vouchers unless traveler expedites their documents at an additional cost. Scanned copies are not available 8.Contiki is not responsible if a Referrer fails to properly identify a Referee. Contiki will not retroactively record a friend who was not identified at the time of sign-up. 9.Contiki will not allow a Referee to be claimed by more than one Referrer. Once a Referee’s e-mail address has been given, it may not be changed. 10.Cash will be given out in the form of a gift card from a major credit card company with a value of $100. Gift card will be issued to Referrer only after Referee completes travel on their trip of 8 days or longer. If a Referee cancels for any reason, the referral reward is forfeited. 11.Offer is not valid for tour purchases made outside the U.S. 12.Contiki reserves the right to resolve any disputes at its sole discretion. $100 Referral cash will be received as a $100 American Express cash gift card.
Touring Date	Land Only	Land + Air	Single (Land Only)	Single (Land + Air)
3/31/2010 - 4/17/2010	$1,855
4/28/2010 - 5/15/2010	$1,855
5/5/2010 - 5/22/2010	$1,855
5/26/2010 - 6/12/2010	$1,855
6/9/2010 - 6/26/2010	$1,855
6/23/2010 - 7/10/2010	$1,855
6/30/2010 - 7/17/2010	$1,845
7/14/2010 - 7/31/2010	$1,845
7/21/2010 - 8/7/2010	$1,845
7/28/2010 - 8/14/2010	$1,845
8/4/2010 - 8/21/2010	$1,845
8/18/2010 - 9/4/2010	$1,845
8/25/2010 - 9/11/2010	$1,845
9/1/2010 - 9/18/2010	$1,845
9/15/2010 - 10/2/2010	$1,845
9/22/2010 - 10/9/2010	$1,845
10/6/2010 - 10/23/2010	$1,845
10/13/2010 - 10/30/2010	$1,845
10/20/2010 - 11/6/2010	$1,845
10/27/2010 - 11/13/2010	$1,845
11/10/2010 - 11/27/2010	$1,915
11/17/2010 - 12/4/2010	$1,915
11/24/2010 - 12/11/2010	$1,915
12/8/2010 - 12/25/2010	$1,915
12/15/2010 - 1/1/2011	$1,965
12/22/2010 - 1/8/2011	$1,965
1/5/2011 - 1/22/2011	$1,915
1/12/2011 - 1/29/2011	$1,915
1/19/2011 - 2/5/2011	$1,915
1/26/2011 - 2/12/2011	$1,915
2/2/2011 - 2/19/2011	$1,915
2/9/2011 - 2/26/2011	$1,915
2/16/2011 - 3/5/2011	$1,915
2/23/2011 - 3/12/2011	$1,915
3/2/2011 - 3/19/2011	$1,915
3/9/2011 - 3/26/2011	$1,915
3/16/2011 - 4/2/2011	$1,915
Airfare Disclaimer A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARE: We encourage you to buy your airfare from the tour operator, because if your tour cancels then your airlines tickets will be covered. Purchasing flights separately at a lesser rate and incorporating it with a Non-Guaranteed Departure Date can result in loss of total cost of your flight investment. Depending on the fare rules, flights may be Non-Refundable and/or Non-Transferable. Neither the tour operator and/or Atlas Cruises & Tours will be held responsible for loss if a tour is cancelled for Lack of Participation. If you would like to check for discounted fares on Guaranteed Departures or for competitive pricing on air and hotel packages, we invite you to follow this link. Documents TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Necessary Travel Documents such as Passports and Visas is the responsibility of the traveler. Passports must be valid six months from your return travel date.

Cairns
City orientation tour

Cairns
Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Centre & see Aboriginal dancing

Cairns
Throw a boomerang & see spear throwing

Tully
Cross the Tully River, home to Australia's best white water rafting

Cairns
City orientation tour

Airlie Beach
Visit the vibrant seaside town

Whitsundays
Transfer boat to Daydream Island

Whitsundays
Stay on Daydream Island and enjoy all the resort facilities

Whitsundays
See native birdlife & wallabies

Mackay
Visit this major centre of the Australian sugar cane industry

Capricorn Coast
Visit & cross the Tropic of Capricorn

Capricorn Coast
Rockhampton sightseeing tour

Country Homestead
Stay at a traditional Country Homestead

Country Homestead
Farm tour

Country Homestead
Enjoy a bush dance evening

Country Homestead
See the farm animals & kangaroos

Fraser Island
Stay on this World Heritage listed island

Fraser Island
Enjoy the scenic boat trip to the island & enjoy the resort facilities

Fraser Island
Stay in the eco-village & enjoy the resort facilities

Noosa
Visit the picturesque seaside town & beach

Cairns
City orientation tour

Brisbane
See the Brisbane River & Southbank

Brisbane
See an Opal demonstration

Surfers Paradise
Visit the 'Gold Coast' beaches

Surfers Paradise
Visit Jupiter's Casino

Currumbin
Visit the wildlife sanctuary, cuddle a koala and see native Australian animals including kangaroos, emus, crocodiles, dingoes & Tasmanian devils

Byron Bay
Visit Cape Byron, Australia's most eastern point

Coffs Harbour
See the Big Banana & banana plantations

Sydney
Visit Mrs Macquarie's Chair for a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour

Sydney
See the Sydney Opera House & Harbour Bridge

Sydney
See the Hawkesbury River & its oyster farms

$150 off Europe Trips of 8 days or more

Save $300 on Airfare - Find out how

CONTIKI MILITARY DISCOUNT

5% off for Contiki Alumni

Travel With Friends and Save Big!

Early Payment and Other Amazing Contiki Discounts

Refer a Friend and You Both Save $100

Ratings & Reviews:

This tour has no reviews yet. Have you experienced this tour? Write a review.

Related Travel Articles

• See Europe :: Travel Safely and In Style, Escorted Tours
• Europe Language Tips
• Tips on Saving for a Trip by Contiki
• Tips on Packing for a Contiki Tour
• Contiki Travel Tips: Suitcase Versus Backpacks
• Tours :: The Most Common Questions about Escorted Tours
• Why Contiki