Australia’s East Coast Jewels

Depart from London Heathrow or Manchester with Singapore Airlines. No matter which airport you choose, there will be no additional cost.

Arrive into the wonderful city of Singapore
and transfer to the four-star M Hotel.

Known as ‘the crossroads of Asia’, Singapore is a city where the east meets the west; a cosmopolitan melting pot with an inspirational identity. Today we can choose to relax or explore as we please. For example, we have the opportunity to join a tour of this fabulous city including Marina Bay, Merlion Park, the historic Civic District, Thian Hock Keng Temple and the fabulous orchid gardens set within Singapore’s botanical gardens. Alternatively, enjoy high tea in the elegant surroundings of Raffles Hotel, or discover the wonderful Gardens by the Bay.

After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Sydney. Our Australian Tour Manager will be waiting and we transfer directly to our hotel, the Crowne Plaza Darling Harbour, ideally located for exploring the city and Darling Harbour’s many eateries.

Sydney is a city that takes full advantage of its natural setting – its sparkling harbour is host to the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge and the spectacular Sydney Opera House. Sydney’s suburbs are blessed with lush native bushland and pristine sandy beaches. Add the excellent restaurants and cafés, endless shopping opportunities, and vibrant culture, and it’s easy to see why Sydney is one of the world’s favourite cities.

After a morning at leisure, this afternoon’s sightseeing tour begins at Hyde Park Barracks, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the structure that was built to house convicts and later served as an immigration depot for women, an asylum, and later law courts. Then, onward to tranquil Watson’s Bay, a former fishing village and now a lush Sydney suburb. A stop is made at Bondi, before we reach Barangaroo! Known as Sydney’s harbourside ‘playground,’ Barangaroo is buzzing with stylish architecture, and incredible dining. We end our afternoon at the King Street Wharf, a waterside precinct filled with locals and tourists alike. This evening, relax on a fabulous sightseeing dinner cruise around spectacular Sydney Harbour.

First stop today is the Royal Botanic Garden of Sydney, where we are treated to a private tour with an Aboriginal guide. Beyond the ‘usual suspects,’ including rose gardens and succulents, discover the Cadi Jam Ora – First Encounters Garden, which explores the relationship between people and plants on the site that the Cadigal people encountered the first fleet in 1788. Next, get those cameras ready as we head for a tour of the spectacular Sydney Opera House. Whilst the exterior is known to every visitor to Australia, we step inside to discover the story beneath those magnificent sails. Learn about the controversial history and memorable performances of the Opera House’s past and what its future may hold. The rest of the afternoon is left free to spend as we please.

It’s time to say goodbye to Sydney as we travel via the historic city of Goulburn, Australia’s first inland city. Encounter country charm and admire Goulburn’s historic buildings that are still very much in use, including the strikingly beautiful Court House and the Post Office. We arrive into Canberra early afternoon. As the seat of the Australian government, Canberra boasts countless museums and historical sites. We head for the stately War Memorial and museum collections, a combination of museums, shrines, and an extensive archive documenting the men and women who served and continue to serve Australia. Later, we arrive at the Hotel Kurrajong Canberra for our next two nights. Those of us who wish to attend the Last Post ceremony are able to return to the Memorial. The ceremony begins with the Australian national anthem, followed by the piper’s lament. Visitors are invited to lay flowers beside the Pool of Reflection as the story behind a name on the Honour Roll is shared, followed by an ode recited by Australian Defence Force personnel. The meaningful ceremony concludes with the sounding of the Last Post.

After breakfast today, we head for Parliament House to enjoy a guided tour of Australia’s government buildings. From the towering flagpole to the Great Hall Tapestry, take in the architecture of the Senate and House of Representatives, as well as the paintings that adorn these historic and hallowed halls. We continue to the National Gallery, known for its great Aboriginal Art Collection. We shall also experience the Aboriginal Memorial up close, an installation of 200 hollow log coffins from Central Arnhem Land, commemorating the indigenous lives lost defending their land since 1788. Canberra is also known for its wine, so we make our way to one of the best local wineries in time for lunch, and, of course, a little wine tasting! Afterwards, we head for Mount Ainslie’s lookout point for a panoramic view of the surrounding scenery. Spot Lake Burley Griffin and see Canberra’s attractions from up high. The remainder of the day is ours to enjoy at leisure.

First stop today is Taralga Wildlife Park. Get a front-row seat to Australia’s wildlife with mini-goats, kangaroos, quokkas, wallabies, emus, camels and more, not to mention over 500 birds and 100 individual bird species. Admire honeyeaters, macaws, black cockatoos, and the majestic wedge-tailed eagle. Enjoy lunch at the historic Argyle Inn, the oldest still-trading hotel in Taralga, built in 1875 and lovingly restored in 2016 in the Victorian tradition. From here, we head north via the verdant town of Oberon to Katoomba in the heart of the Blue Mountains. Later this afternoon, we arrive at the heritage-listed Carrington Hotel, built in the 1880s to cater for the railway boom. Make yourself comfortable and explore the historic surroundings, brimming with both antiques and modern comforts.

Today we shall explore this scenic region. Believed to be a ‘tonic’ in the form of mountain air, the Blue Mountains have been promoted for their health benefits since the early 1800s. Learn of the legend of the Three Sisters, a spectacular landmark located at Echo Point. Meander the Fairfax Heritage Walking Track with sweeping vistas of the Grose Valley and take in the view from Govetts Leap, one of the most famous lookouts on the continent! This afternoon, we make our way to the Blue Mountains Cultural Centre to see the World Heritage Exhibition. The interactive high-tech exhibition explores the natural and social landscapes of the region, offering visitors an immersive experience that exposes them to the wonders of this incredible heritage area. Later in the day, we return to our hotel.

This morning we board our flight to Cairns, in tropical north Queensland. After collecting our cases, we transfer to Port Douglas via one of the most scenic highways in the country. Upon arrival, settle into the Peninsula Hotel where we enjoy ocean-view suites. This evening, we gather for dinner in a relaxed waterside restaurant, beloved by the locals.

It’s time to soak up all that Port Douglas has to offer! Whilst you are welcome to relax by the poolside, we have two optional trips available to the Great Barrier Reef. Our first option visits the Low Isles. This full-day experience offers both snorkelling and sailing on a catamaran. Recline on the white sandy beach of the island or snorkel over the vivid coral gardens in the blue lagoon, accompanied by a marine biologist. Maybe we’ll be lucky and spot a turtle! The glassbottom boat experience is enhanced by reef commentary by our skipper. Alternatively, for stronger swimmers seeking more time in the water, our second option is onboard a yacht visiting various sites known for spectacular snorkelling. Some of the crew will be in the water with us, ready to answer any questions. Whichever option you choose; enjoy your day!

A day at leisure to spend as you please. We have an optional excursion to the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest. Travel into the Mossman Gorge National Park, the most southern part of the Daintree Rainforest, for a leisurely walk. The tour includes a ferry transfer across the Daintree River, and on to the Jindalba Boardwalk. This afternoon we head for Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef. Discover the area’s rich history and enjoy a tropical fruit flavoured ice cream on the way back to the Daintree River. Later, we board our Wildlife Cruise and search for snakes, birds and massive saltwater crocodiles. After all of the day’s adventures, return to our hotel.

Another day at leisure to enjoy Queensland’s Tropical North. Perhaps take an optional tour to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures for an up-close and personal experience with these prehistoric creatures. Founded in 1934, Hartley’s is known for its emphasis on sustainability. Beyond crocodiles, exhibits include Komodo Dragons, snakes, alligators, cassowaries, wombats, koalas, emus, kangaroos and wallabies.

After breakfast, we must say farewell to Port Douglas. First stop today is Rex Lookout, a panoramic spot to scope out the expanse of Trinity Bay’s azure water and golden sand. At Babinda Boulders, enjoy an easy walk through lush rainforest to a creek lined with massive boulders. The water at the pool here remains cool all year round, despite the tropical heat. We continue to Cardwell to enjoy the view across the water to Hinchinbrook Island. Later, we arrive into Townsville and our next two nights at the Hotel Grand Chancellor.

After breakfast, we board the ferry from Townsville to the breathtakingly beautiful Magnetic Island, or, as the locals call it,‘Maggie’. Palm-fringed coastlines, huge granite boulders, and warm, sandy beaches with turquoise water lapping around coral reefs, Magnetic Island is paradise on earth. Keep your eyes peeled for koalas as Maggie is host to the largest colony in the north of Australia. We board a bus trip taking us to Horseshoe Bay, a sheltered U-shaped bay with 3km of golden beach. Learn about the area’s history, geography, wildlife and folklore and later in the day we return to Townsville.

After breakfast, we head for our next destination: Airlie Beach, the gateway to the incredible Whitsunday Islands. Take time to stroll around the coastal town and pick a lunch spot with views of the calm aquamarine waters. Whilst walking, gather ideas for how your afternoon could be spent. Home for the next three nights is the fabulous Coral Sea Resort, and after settling into our ocean-view rooms, the day is ours to enjoy at leisure.

A day left totally free to spend as you please. Take the opportunity to relax by the hotel pool or stroll along the lovely boardwalk into the village. For water enthusiasts, an optional cruise on the ‘Lady Enid’ offers barefoot luxury and comfort during a Langford Island sailing tour. Climb the steps to the Langford Island lookout for incredible photos and head back down to cruise around the Whitsundays and experience it face-down… with a little snorkelling! Gear up (all gear provided) and swim through the exquisite coral gardens and crystal-clear water. Langford Island is a famous turtle hotspot, so keep an eye out for these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Today we join a scenic cruise through the magnificent Whitsunday Islands. Relax inair-conditioned comfort aboard our luxury catamaran, including a rooftop deck. Learn about the Whitsundays’ 74 islands, and the marine life, including manta rays, turtles, humpback whales and more. Walk on powder-soft white silica sand and swim in the pristine blue water. Our cruise allows for two hours at Whitehaven Beach, providing plenty of time to bask in the water, stroll along the shore or walk up to the lookout point. Salt, sun and sea: just another day in paradise.

Enjoy breakfast and pack for the trip ahead. This morning we take a tour to learn about sugar cane farming – the sweet lifeblood of the Mackay region. See the sugar cane patch and explore a mill and distillery. Taste liqueur products, chutneys, relishes, sauces, ginger beer and freshly spun fairy floss. Learn about rum’s distilling process from the crushing of sugar cane to the distilled cane spirit that forms the base of the Sarina Sugar Shack’s rum and liqueurs. Following lunch, we continue our journey to Rockhampton. Centrally-located, our hotel, Empire Apartment Hotel, takes in views of the Fitzroy River, Mount Archer and the sprawling city of Rockhampton.

This morning we head for Capricorn Caves, and enjoy an early breakfast. Afterwards, we tour limestone cave formations dating back 400 million years. Our local guides enchant us with tales of this ancient space. Later, head for the Rockhampton Botanic Gardens. This serene haven boasts an impressive array of both native and exotic plants. Traverse streams and learn of the floral beauty that surrounds us. Next, enjoy a riverside walk along the Fitzroy River, flowing from the joining of the Dawson and Mackenzie Rivers. This evening, perhaps join your fellow travelling companions to share stories at The Caves Country Pub, a Rockhampton institution.

First stop today is the Langmorn Homestead, a cattle station operational since the 1870s. Explore the original buildings and learn about the grazing necessary for the herd. Later, we arrive at Riverhead, Hervey Bay, where we board our ferry to K’gari and check in for our two-night stay at the Kingfisher Bay Resort. Fraser Island is 122km long and the largest sand island in the world. Combining sand dunes, tropical rainforests, freshwater dune lakes and, of course, endless stretches of beach, this heritage site is truly extraordinary. It’s little wonder the Aboriginal people call the island K’gari, meaning ‘paradise’.

Today we embark on a full-day, four wheel drive tour to see all that iconic K’gari has to offer. Visit beautiful Lake McKenzie and walk along its powder-soft sand and crystal water. See the famous Maheno shipwreck, remnants of the luxury liner wrecked by a cyclone. Eli Creek awaits: a freshwater creek with the purest water imaginable, gushing 3.5 million litres of fresh water into the ocean every hour. Drive along the famous 75 Mile Beach highway, where the beach becomes the road, as we travel alongside the tide. Learn the legend behind the coloured sands of the Pinnacles, a collection of dunes in strange spires, the fusion of wind, rain, sand, and clay over hundreds of thousands of years. Meander through Pile Valley’s magnificent satinay and brush box forests, with trees well over a thousand years old, creating a canopy over 50 metres high. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the turquoise parrots, plumed frogmouths, red goshawks and glossy black cockatoos. Closer to the ground, dingoes can be spotted scavenging along the forest floor. Our tour includes lunch and refreshments, so all we need to pack is our spirit of adventure. Oh, and swimwear and sun cream!

Today we must leave K’gari for the mainland and our first stop is Queen’s Park, Maryborough. The park is a botanical retreat, providing a serene backdrop overlooking the Mary River. Maryborough has a beautiful ensemble of lovingly-restored heritage buildings, and is also the birthplace of Pamela Lyndon Travers, the creator of Mary Poppins. Her birth house is demarcated with signage of a lady holding the iconic umbrella. The area is also steeped in history with the Ariadne connection, an immigrant ship which sailed from Liverpool to Maryborough in 1862. Later, visit the Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, a biodiverse area of endemic subtropical rainforest containing 391 plant species, 141 bird species and 68 species of mammals, reptiles and amphibians, many of which are threatened or rare species. Brisbane’s Stamford Plaza is our final destination and home for our final two nights in Australia.

The Stamford Plaza is in the perfect position to explore Brisbane, located next to the botanic gardens and a stone’s throw from the CBD. Completion of a footbridge across the river to Kangaroo Point, known for its fantastic food scene, is expected in 2024. Make your way around Brisbane with both public transport and ferries. The day is ours to enjoy at leisure.

All good things must come to an end, and this morning we transfer to Brisbane Airport. Our flights with Singapore Airlines will travel via Singapore.

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Breakfast is served shortly before our arrival into London Heathrow or Manchester, bringing to an end our wonderful tour.