Wonders of Australia and New Zealand

Depart the USA on your transpacific flight to Cairns, Australia, crossing the International Date Line en route.

Upon arrival, you’ll be met by a Mayflower Cruises & Tours representative and transferred to your hotel, with a panoramic tour en route. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Immersion into the “Aussie” culture begins as you board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and travel across the rainforest canopy. Stop for a stroll along a boardwalk through the rainforest. At the end of the Skyrail journey in Kuranda, visit the Rainforestation Nature Park. Witness a performance by the Pamagirri Aboriginal dancers, see demonstrations on spear throwing, learn about aboriginal culture and try your hand at boomerang throwing. Upon returning to the hotel, the afternoon and evening are free of planned activities. Meal: B

Discover the amazing underwater world of marine life on a full-day excursion to the Outer Barrier Reef. See colorful fish and coral through the glass bottom boat, watch a fish-feeding demonstration, snorkel, relax on the Sun Deck and enjoy a presentation about the Outer Barrier Reef by the onboard Marine Biologist. Meals: B, L

After a morning flight to Sydney, depart on a tour of this remarkable city built around one of the most spectacular harbors in the world. See the famous Bondi Beach with the sparkling ocean, white sand and casual cafés in the surrounding area. Visit Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, a well-known landmark, in the perfect location to photograph the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. After the excursion, check in to the hotel and continue exploring the city on your own. Meal: B

The day begins with a guided visit of the world-famous Opera House, Sydney’s most recognizable landmark. Learn about the inspiration behind the masterful architecture and see private areas inside this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After the visit, remain in the harbor area on your own to enjoy the lively atmosphere, or return to the hotel. This evening, relax on the included sunset dinner cruise of the magnificent harbor. Meals: B, D

Today’s excursion discovers the scenic beauty of the World Heritage – Listed Blue Mountains National Park. At Featherdale, hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, talk with the naturalist guides throughout the park, and see the native koalas. It’s the perfect place for up-close encounters with the abundant native wildlife. Transit the scenic Cliff Drive of the Blue Mountains to Echo Point and see the Three Sisters rock formation – one of the area’s best-known sites and a great photo opportunity! Nearby, board the Scenic Railway for a ride on the world’s steepest incline railway. Return to Sydney after an exhilarating day in the bush and mountains. Meal: B

Depart Sydney and fly to Melbourne, a cosmopolitan yet historic city. En route to the hotel, begin your orientation of Melbourne with a panoramic tour. This afternoon is free for your independent exploration or join the optional excursion to Philip Island to see the “penguin parade.” Meal: B

The morning and early afternoon are left free of planned activities for you to do as you please. Visit a museum or the beautiful parks and gardens; wander through the historic Queen Victoria Market – the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere – with plenty of opportunity for souvenir shopping! Stop by Federation Square, a lively cultural district with art, museums and restaurants or take a cruise along the scenic Yarra River, through the heart of the city. This evening, enjoy amazing views of the city as you ascend to the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower to visit their observation deck, followed by dinner at a local restaurant. Meals: B, D

New Zealand: This morning it’s time to leave Australia and head to New Zealand. After your flight to Queenstown, enjoy an orientation tour of the city, situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by majestic mountains. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Meal: B

Today’s adventure is a narrated cruise through the beautiful Milford Sound. As you traverse this awe-inspiring fjord, see the breathtaking drama of sheer cliffs, massive waterfalls, glaciers and rainforest as you keep an eye out for local wildlife… seals basking in the sun on the rocks or dolphins frolicking in the water. Lunch is included during the excursion. Meals: B, L

What better way to see the snow-capped mountains, picturesque bays and scenic splendor than on an included cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw. Witness nature’s majesty while cruising along Lake Wakatipu on this coal-fired vintage steamship. Having crossed the lake, visit Walter Peak Farm where you explore the grounds, see the gardens, and watch a farm demonstration by your host. Enjoy lunch at the Colonel’s Homestead before returning to the hotel. Meals: B, L

Departing Queenstown, journey by coach to Christchurch. En route, stop for views of Mt. Cook – the highest mountain in New Zealand. Continue to scenic Lake Tekapo with its amazing turquoise color and surrounding stunning landscapes. During your free time, stop by the Church of the Good Shepherd in its beautiful setting, see the town’s “sheepdog statue”, and enjoy lunch on your own in one of the cafés. Travel through the Canterbury Plains and upon arrival in Christchurch, check in to the hotel and enjoy an included dinner. Meals: B, D

The final day in New Zealand begins with a panoramic orientation tour. Once familiar with the surroundings, enjoy an afternoon at leisure in this vibrant city. The day concludes as you join your fellow travelers and Tour Manager for your farewell dinner. Meals: B, D

It’s time to bid “g’day” to the lands “down under” as you depart for the Christchurch Airport. Memories of the sites and experiences you encountered, along with the hospitable “Aussies” and “Kiwis” you met along the way, will be cherished for a lifetime. Meal: B