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Ultimate Australia with Sailing

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Fully Guided Coach Group 18-30's Scenic
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 Trip Length
25 Days
 Trip Starts
Sydney
 Trip Finishes
Uluru
25 Day Ultimate Australia with Sailing Itinerary (Contiki)
Countries Explored: Australia
Trip Operator
Trip Style
In-Depth Explorer
Accommodation
Mixed
Max. Group Size
30
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
EXSS

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Contiki's 25 Day Ultimate Australia with Sailing. Discover the incredible mix of landscapes and activities that makes Aussie so unique. Start in Sydney and the East Coast with plenty of beach time at Bondi, Byron Bay and sailing the sun-drenched Whitsundays, before escaping to the Northern Territory for endless iconic landscapes, including 3 nights at the unforgettable Uluru. One minute you're in a city downing kaffir lime cocktails, next you're gazing up at the stars in the wilderness of the outback. You’ll feel like a true blue Aussie in no time.

Itinerary

Welcome to Sydney! Meet up with your brand new travel family and hit the road and head on a day trip to one of Australia's finest: the majestic Blue Mountains (which aren't actually blue, but are still beautiful all the same). Out here in the great Aussie Outdoors we'll be learning about the legends behind the famous Three Sisters rock formation as well as exploring the Jamison Ridge area. We'll head back to Sydney and the evening is yours to make the most of. Stay: Wake Up (or similar)

This morning set out to explore this sun-drenched, cosmopolitan and eternally cool city. Your Trip Manager will give you the low down on all of Sydney's best bits as you get a tour of the highlights. Check out the Opera House, catch the ferry to Watsons Bay to experience the iconic skyline from a different perspective, then venture over to Bondi Beach where you can spend the afternoon lazing about in the sunshine. If you've got a head for heights, an optional Sydney Harbour Bridge climb is the best way to see that iconic harbour. (B)

With a full free day to choose your own adventure, we have some fab Free Time Add-Ons for you to pick from. Water-lovers can opt for a jetboat across the Sydney Harbour or those who prefer the land, can jump on a bike for a tour of Sydney's best bits. (B)

With Sydney satisfaction levels at a high this morning we jump on a plane to Byron Bay where all your hippie dreams can come to life. Landing in Byron Bay, we'll drop off our bags at the accommodation and start as we mean to go on, heading straight to the beach. Here in Byron we'll unleash our secret talent for surfing with an included lesson. You'll be a pro in no time!

We'll continue the surf vibes today with the option to kickstart our morning with sunrise at Australia's most easterly point. Then you have the rest of the day free to explore like a local. With the afternoon stretched out ahead of you, there's kayaking, relaxing on the beach and whale watching (seasonal) all on offer - your time here will be nothing short of magic.

It's time to wave goodbye to Byron and head up the coast to Noosa Everglades. But first, why not opt for early morning yoga on the beach as you watch the golden sun stretch over the famous bay? Relaxed from our morning on the beach, we'll head to our next destination, the Noosa Everglades. Here we'll unpack at our Special Stay Eco Lodge home for the next two nights and relax with a group dinner in the bistro & bar area, surrounded by the chatter and rustling of local birds and kangaroos. (D) Stay: Habitat Noosa (or similar)

Wake up to the sound of birds chirping at our Eco Camp this morning (you might even spot a kangaroo) and grab a quick brekkie before heading out for a day on K'gari (Fraser Island). Your spirits will be at an all-time high after this day full of sand dunes, scenic lakes and dense rainforests. We'll cruise along the world's longest sand highway before you appease your hunger with a tasty lunch.

It's back to the Eco Camp this evening for our final night here. You have free time to tuck into some food at the bistro, sample the offerings at the CootharaBAR boutique brewery, or just relax and enjoy the lush surroundings of this beautiful protected National Park. (B/L)

What better way to say goodbye to The Glades than with an optional Canoeing Excursion on one of only two Everglades in the world? Afterwards we're on our way to find coastal nirvana at the pristine beaches of the Whitsundays. We'll hop on a plane for a flight to Airlie Beach. Landing in Airlie Beach, you'll notice everything starting to look a bit more tropical. Hello Whitsundays! This afternoon is yours for the taking. Head out and enjoy the endless cafes, bars and ocean vistas this backpacker hub has to offer. (B) Stay: Base Backpackers (or similar)

This morning we'll transfer to the marina and board a converted racing yacht - our home for the next 2 nights - ready to set sail over crystal clear waters. With 74 perfect islands at your fingertips, an open sea calling your name, today you'll get to explore one of the worlds most lusted-after holiday destinations with a day trip to the spotless Whitehaven Beach, including snorkelling. A freshly prepared lunch and dinner are waiting for you back on the yacht. This is as close to heaven as you can find on planet earth. (L/D) Stay: Prosail (or similar)

Is there anywhere in the world more beautiful than the Whitsundays? We think not. We'll have more wonders to enjoy today as we spend the day cruising through the islands, enjoying freshly prepared meals on board, with endless opportunities to snorkel, swim and soak up those rays. (B/L/D)

Waking up on board the yacht this morning, we'll make our way to the shore. With our sights set on another beautiful island destination we'll board a train, heading for Townsville. After soaking up some East Coast scenery on our train journey, we'll hop on a ferry headed towards the spellbinding Magnetic Island.

Magnetic Island is an apt name for this captivating isle, with its coastal walking trails and gum trees teeming with lazy koala bears. We'll have plenty of time to explore, try some water sports in the bright turquoise waters or meet some of the local marsupials. But first things first, we'll enjoy a drink (our treat) and watch the sunset over the bay. Blissful or what? (B/D) Stay: Base Backpackers (or similar)

We have a whole day on this paradise island - lucky us! We'll waste no time meeting the locals, with a chance to eat an unlimited chef-cooked breakfast with some Koalas at the Bungalow Bay Koala Village.

Then we can check out some of the walking trails - such as the Forts Walk which offers up stunning views of the Palm Island Group as well as WWII fortifications, and the chance to see more koalas in the wild -  or enjoy some free time at Horseshoe bay, taking a dip on the azure waters and relaxing on the beach. See Magnetic Island's resident Rock Wallabies at dusk before a free evening, where we can watch the sunset and check out some of the local bars. (B)

After breakfast this morning we'll say farewell to our koala friends and depart Magnetic Island on a ferry. But we'll never forget its singular beauty. Back in Townsville we won't hang around too long, as we're hopping on a train headed to Cairns, where we'll arrive late afternoon after a gloriously scenic journey along Australia's East Coast.

Welcome to the city where rainforests meet reefs. We'll enjoy one of the most memorable meals you've ever experienced today with our interactive Bush Food MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® tutorial and dinner. An experienced chef will guide us through a history of Bush Food as you sample a variety of native spices and fruits, explaining their tastes, origins, and traditional uses before we enjoy our dinner, which features native game. It's an incredible cultural feast, and the perfect way to start our adventure in Cairns. (B/D) Stay: Gilligans (or similar)

Rise and shine, our entire day today is an unforgettable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience, packed with history, heritage and natural beauty, as we enjoy a spectacular a day trip to the oldest tropical rainforest in the world: Daintree. With its ancient ferns and vibrant canopies, this place will take our breath away.

There's a reason David Attenborough called it 'the most extraordinary place on earth.' As well as admiring the lush rainforest, we'll also meet the local Kuku Yalanji people and learn about their rich Aboriginal culture and history. We'll get the chance to view a smoking ceremony and take an art class with an Aboriginal artist. We'll also learn about ancient Dreamtime stories, local history and how these are shared through art. Then, we'll get to create our own unique souvenir to take home in the form of a canvas that tells our own stories. What a day; and we're not done yet. (B/L)

Today you'll have the option to board a catamaran out to the reef to snorkel or dive in the crystal waters and gaze at the colourful coral and even more vibrant marine life. Back on board, the expert marine crew will tell us all there is to know about this stunning, but vulnerable, natural miracle. (B)

Today we have the chance to escape our comfort zones and try some of the adventurous activities that Cairns is famous for - think bungy jumping, skydiving and whitewater rafting. Or, sign up for a day trip on the scenic cable car, Skyrail. Here you can gain a truly unique perspective of Australia's World Heritage listed tropical rainforest, gliding above the canopy before descending to the forest floor to continue your guided explorational journey in the tropical hippie paradise of Kuranda.

Known for its appreciation of sustainable living and alternate therapies, Kuranda is a unique village in a world of commercialism. Take the famous Kuranda Railway back to Cairns for a relaxing end to your day. (B)

Flying out of Cairns this morning, we'll swap the beaches of Queensland for the tropical capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin. Touching down in Darwin, we'll waste no time getting into it as we head out for an optional visit to the Royal Flying Doctors Service. Learn about the history & the activities of the RFDS's pilots, engineers, doctors & nurses, & the experiences of the patients that were carried & cared for each day.

See, experience & learn through the wonder of technology as this facility brings history to life. Then we'll regroup at Cullen Bay to watch the spellbinding sunset, before a free evening to check out the city's cosmopolitan nightlife. Stay: The Cavenagh Hotel (or similar)

After an included breakfast at the hotel this morning, we'll take a city tour on the coach and head to Kakadu National Park. It's time to get to grips with the breathtaking landscapes of Kakadu National Park. We'll kick things off by meeting some local Indigenous people at their business, Pudakul.

We'll be taken on an immersive cultural tour where we'll have the chance to learn and understand the local customs and traditions of the Aboriginal people of the region. It's an experience not to be missed. Fully immersed in these timeless lands we'll take a hike up to Ubirr lookout, to catch a stunning sunset over the Nadab floodplain before enjoying a free evening to chill out at our accommodation. (B) Stay: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel (or similar)

Cameras at the ready! We have all day today to explore the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding National Park. You'll have the option to see the unique terrain of the Northern Territory from the sky, gliding over the strikingly different landscapes on a scenic flight. You can then opt into a Sunset Yellow Waters cruise this evening, while learning why this region is so important to the local Aboriginal people. (B)

More natural beauty in store today, as we start with a visit to Edith Falls before we head to the otherworldly Katherine Gorge. Welcome to the spectacular sandstone landscapes of Katherine Gorge. We'll have the opportunity to take a cruise and explore the world famous National Park, spotting waterfalls, ancient aboriginal rock art and of course the incredible gorge itself. (B/D) Stay: Contour Hotel Katherine (or similar)

Our time in Katherine comes to an end today, but the departure is easier knowing we're headed for another natural wonder... Arriving in Litchfield National Park, we'll check out the enormous termite mounds and famous Florence Falls, two waterfalls pouring over a wide plateau into into deep, picture-perfect water holes. Grab your swimmers to take a heavenly dip in the crystal clear waters. Back in Darwin we'll settle in for the night, ready to continue our adventures further south tomorrow. (B) Stay: The Cavenagh Hotel (or similar)

Flying out of Darwin, we have Alice Springs and the majestic Uluru in our sights. Touching down in red-earthed Alice Springs, we'll jump on board a private coach bound for Uluru. Welcome to Uluru! Here we'll settle into our lodge, ready for a few days of exploring this jaw-dropping destination. Before your head hits the pillow, you'll have the chance to visit the magical Field of Lights. Stay: Lodge in the Yulara Township (or similar)

After a comfy night's sleep it's time to get out and about and explore the majesty of Uluru. And what better way to start the day than witnessing the rock bathed in the golden glow of an Australian sunrise? A sacred site for the local indigenous tribe, this imposing rock is actually a staggering 700 million years old.

We'll then get right into the heart of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park with a hike to the Walpa Gorge and Valley of the Winds, where boulders bigger than skyscrapers dominate the landscape. This afternoon you'll have a chance to try out your skills by taking an optional Segway tour. You could also  take part in a dot painting workshop. (B)

Grab your sneakers, camera and your sense of adventure - it's time for a day trip! Our first stop is an included Big BBQ Brekkie at Kings Creek Station, then we're ready to go. Your guided hike around the imposing King's Canyon awaits. Wonder at the lunar-like landscape as you hike through the canyon and take respite from the sun in the shady space at the bottom of the climb, The Garden of Eden. 

It's as idyllic and mythical as it sounds and is home to its own unique ecosystem in this barren landscape. Finish the day off with a glass of bubbles in hand and the sunset casting a glow over the Outback's most picturesque backdrop, there's no better way to spend your final evening in Uluru. (B/D)

This morning we'll have the chance to check out the landscape from the clouds with a scenic flight or a Skydive over the outback before it's time to say our sad farewells to our Contiki family. Australia, it's been real. We may shed a tear, but we'll never forget what we've experienced together in this spectacular land. And just remember, it's not goodbye, just see you soon. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Sydney: Dramatic scenery. Fresh mountain air filling your lungs. A World Heritage Site. If that's your thing, prepare to be impressed.
  • Sydney: The Opera House. ANZAC Memorial. Royal Botanic Gardens. It's all here for you to post on social and make your friends jealous!
  • Sydney: Step onto the golden stretch of one of the world's most famous beaches. The ultimate sandy nirvana for sun worshippers.
  • Byron Bay: You're booked in for an afternoon surf lesson. Side note: schedule some chillout time afterwards – you might ache from wrestling the tides.
  • Noosa Everglades: The gateway to tree-lined waterways and ancient rainforests of Noosa Everglades. And if that doesn't tempt you: there's a micro-brewery onsite.
  • Noosa Everglades: Our Special Stay Eco Lodges are in the heart of the action. You may even have a jumping joey as a friendly neighbour.
  • K'Gari: Sand dunes. Check. Lakes. Check. Rainforest. Check. World's longest sand highway. Check. Possibly one of the coolest places we know.
  • K'Gari: Thanks to the white sand and turquoise waters, you'll think you're stranded on a paradise island.
  • Whitsunday Islands: Float around the reefs, marvel at rainbow-coloured fish, then chill out on deck (and secretly hope no one brought a ukulele).
  • Airlie Beach: Think you'll catch some zzzzs on the train from Proserpine to Townsville? Think again. You won't want to miss a moment.
  • Townsville: Catch a boat from Magnetic Island to the mainland. Wave goodbye to your new BFF Reggie the Koala and promise you'll write.
  • Magnetic Island: Pack some comfy shoes and climb up to Hawking's Point for sundown. Yoga poses for Insta: optional.
  • Magnetic Island: Enjoy a chef-cooked breakfast at Bungalow Bay Koala Village, where you'll meet these furry little guys and learn what makes them tick.
  • Magnetic Island: Go koala-spotting, see WWII fortifications, or just have a beer in the sun. There's something for everyone on this trail.
  • Magnetic Island: Mingle with Magnetic Island's resident Rock Wallabies at dusk. Just watch these cheeky little guys don't steal your wallet!
  • Townsville: Things heat up as the landscape gets even more tropical. Soak up the scenery on this train trip from Townsville to Cairns.
  • Cairns: Eat like a local with this chef-guided bush food tutorial and dinner (thankfully, not a witchetty grub in sight!)
  • Daintree Rainforest: Tour the world's oldest rainforest with an indigenous expert. Sir David Attenborough called Daintree: ‘the most extraordinary place on earth'.
  • Daintree Rainforest: Learn how ancient ‘Dreamtime' stories were shared through art. Then unleash your inner Banksy and create a masterpiece at the Janbal Gallery.
  • Whitsunday Islands: Seeing Whitehaven Beach is like seeing a little piece of heaven. With 15 of your new best friends! #lifegoals
  • Whitsunday Islands: Step aboard a converted racing yacht – where your friendly captain trusts you enough to let you try steering it.
  • Whitsunday Islands: The Great Barrier Reef is home to nearly 9,000 species of sea creatures. This means it'll impress even the saltiest ‘sea dogs'.
  • Darwin: Probably one of the best sunsets we've ever seen. The whole town stops to watch this magic happen.
  • Kakadu National Park: Immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture at Pudakul. Meet a local family in their home and learn about the significance of the Didgeridoo.
  • Kakadu National Park: Climb to the top and be rewarded with a sunset to rival the African savannas. You'll half-expect a lion to walk into the frame!
  • Kakadu National Park: See the work of Aboriginal artists and craft-makers and learn more about the indigenous tribes.
  • Kakadu National Park: Some Aboriginal art on Nourlangie Rocks has been around for 20,000 years! It makes our nan look like a spring chicken. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® Experience
  • Katherine: Kick back and take a refreshing dip in the crystalline plunge pools, surrounded by monsoon forest. Pure bliss!
  • Litchfield National Park: One for the bucket list. Take it easy in the relaxing plunge pools, or swim under the cascading Florence Falls.
  • Uluru: Start the day the right way – by enjoying the sunrise over Uluru. This should be on everyone's #lifegoals list.
  • Kata Tjuta: Walk around this sacred site. See the Valley of the Winds and Walpa Gorge, with its towering domes that change colour in the sunlight.
  • Uluru: Does it get any better than a 'Big Brekkie' cooked up on the BBQ? We think not.
  • Uluru: Salute this sacred landmark with drinks and nibbles as you watch the sun set. A moment you'll replay in your mind forever.
  • Kings Canyon: Climb the 'stairway to heaven' to the aptly named Garden of Eden, Kings Canyon
  • Uluru: Our last night together! *sobs* Chill with your new BFFs over dinner, swap Snapchats and make some plans for your next Contiki together.

  • 18 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 7 Dinners

  • 12 nights in Hostels, 5 nights in Hotels, 3 nights in Lodge, 2 nights in Eco-camp, 2 nights in Converted Racing Yacht

  • Expert Trip Manager, Local Guides + Captain & Crew

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included

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There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Contiki. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Contiki. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.