Itinerary

Visit Fiji, the “island of smiles”!

Fly to Nadi International Airport on Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu, and explore the delightful archipelago country of Fiji, from rainforest waterfalls to beaches framed by tropical palms.

Fiji – A Tropical Paradise is not accompanied by a Tauck Director. Spend 5 days / 4 nights following Tauck’s 14-day Best of Australia & New Zealand, or 4 days / 3 nights following our 20-day Grand Australia & New Zealand.

The Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa, Fiji
The Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa, Fiji was named one of the world’s “Ten Best Overseas Luxury Resorts” by Luxury Travel Magazine. Stylishly designed to reflect Fiji’s rich cultural heritage, it sits on 30 beachfront acres.

Dates & Prices

Price includes airport transfers, three or four nights resort hotel, breakfast daily, and a half-day sightseeing tour.

Air Price Per Person
Airfare to Fiji is additional and is not included in your tour package price; it should be arranged as part of your international air ticket. Ask upon booking.

Note: Lunches, dinners and Fiji airport tax (approximately USD $20) are not included. Extra nights are available from $170 per person, per night (garden-view double) or $225 per person, per night (beachfront double) which includes breakfast. The number of additional nights is subject to airline schedules. Additional night(s) in Auckland, Christchurch, or Sydney may be necessary. For full details, please inquire when booking.
 

Sightseeing & Leisure
Tauck provides a sightseeing tour of a traditional Fijian village as well as an introduction to Nadi; you will spend most days at your leisure. Optional trips include a full-day cruise to one of the outer islands, an excursion to the capital city of Suva, sportfishing, or resort activities.

Your Fiji Experience Includes…
• Airport Transfers
• Three or Four Nights Resort Hotel
• Breakfast Daily
• Half-Day Sightseeing Tour
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand
Tour begins: Auckland, New Zealand (transfer to the hotel is included). You will join a group arriving from Australia; Auckland is known as the “City of Sails” because of its spectacular waterfront location, and is New Zealand’s largest city. Your accommodation, The Langham Hotel, Auckland, is located in the heart of Auckland, close to the waterfront and the commercial center. Upon your arrival, the rest of your day is free. Meals D

2. Experience the Sights of Auckland
Visit Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World, an aquarium that offers a close-up look at New Zealand’s unusual marine life, on a morning sightseeing tour. You’ll also visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum, housing one of the world’s most extensive collections of Polynesian and Maori artifacts. Attend a special presentation of Maori dance and entertainment before spending the rest of the day as you please in Auckland. Meals B

3. Rotorua and Maori Traditions
Have lunch at Longlands Farm, a combination working farm and country garden, and visit the Agrodome to learn about sheep farming, one of New Zealand’s critical industries. Arrive in Rotorua for a walk through the Whakarewarewa Thermal Village to see the bubbling mud pools and geysers, as well as exhibits detailing village life and crafts of the Maori. Meals BLD

4. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Travel by air to the South Island’s Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, in the heart of the Southern Alps. You have an opportunity to take an optional helicopter flightseeing excursion to view the scenic beauty of Mount Cook if the weather cooperates (additional $195 per person; inquire at time of booking). A short flight takes you to Te Anau this afternoon. Meals BLD

5. Milford Sound Cruise
Begin the day in Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A cruise along the stunning waters and dramatic landscapes of Milford Sound includes sights such as rainforests with waterfalls cascading down sheer cliffs, glacier-carved inlets, and occasionally seals on the shore. Journey to Queenstown, New Zealand’s premier alpine resort area. Meals BLD

6. Queenstown / Jet Boat
Ride through the narrow gorges of the Shotover River Canyon on a Shotover Jet Boat; the river is famous for its towering rocky canyons; shoot the rapids and navigate narrow channels with breathtaking 360˚ spins. Spend the remainder of the day in Queenstown. Meals B

7. Explore Christchurch
Fly to the garden city of Christchurch, where gracious willow trees line the banks of the Avon River. Sightseeing includes beautiful public parks, gardens and historic sites of Christchurch, as well as a visit to the fascinating exhibits of the Canterbury Museum. Meals B

8. Christchurch at Leisure
Your entire day is free in Christchurch to pursue your own special interests. Please join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner. Meals BD

9. Journey Home
Tour ends: Christchurch. A transfer is included from Crowne Plaza Hotel Christchurch to Christchurch International Airport. Please allow 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in at the airport. Meals B

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air, in coach or business, for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Mount Cook Helicopter Option, Day 4 – add $195

Please ask when booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our Guest Protection Plan.
 

Auckland ~ Rotorua ~ Mt. Cook National Park ~ Milford Sound ~ Fiordland National Park ~ Queenstown ~ Christchurch
Tauck Discoveries

Maori Heritage
See Maori artifacts at the Auckland War Memorial Museum; attend a presentation of Maori music and dance.

Lunch at a New Zealand Dairy Farm
Have lunch at Longlands Farm on New Zealand’s North Island, where you’ll experience life on a working dairy farm.

Jet Boat Ride, Shotover River
Take a jet boat ride through the narrow gorges of the Shotover River, where towering rocky canyons provide a spectacular backdrop for the breathtaking spins as you shoot the rapids.
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive Melbourne / Yarra River Cruise
Tour begins: 1:45 PM, Langham Hotel, Melbourne. A transfer is included from Melbourne Airport to The Langham Hotel, Melbourne. Afternoon sightseeing includes a cruise on the Yarra River; join us for a welcome dinner aboard the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. Meals LD

2. Discover Melbourne’s Charm
A tour of Melbourne is highlighted by sites such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Parliament House, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Shrine of Remembrance (ANZAC War Memorial); the rest of the day is free. Meals B

3. Alice Springs – A Town Called Alice
A morning flight from Melbourne brings you to Alice Springs, where an Aboriginal Dreamtime lunch precedes a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park. Learn how the Aborigines have managed the land for tens of thousands of years, and witness the unique flora and wildlife. Attend a barbecue dinner under the stars tonight, featuring bush tucker and stories. Meals BLD

4. Uluru (Ayers Rock), Desert Outback
Soar over the remote Australian desert outback on an optional ($175 per person) hot air balloon flight and a champagne breakfast, with incomparable views of red kangaroos and cattle stations. Fly to Uluru (Ayers Rock); the massive monolith looms high above the flat desert and is Aboriginal sacred ground. Have canapés and champagne as you watch the incredible desert sunset, where a spectrum of color changes the face of Uluru. Meals BLD

5. Fly to Cairns, Gateway to the Reef
Spend free time this morning at Uluru, then take a flight to Cairns in tropical Queensland; your hotel is close to just about everything. Meals B

6. Hayman Island & The Great Barrier Reef
A short flight from Cairns takes you to Hamilton Island, where a catamaran transports you to one of the world’s top resorts, Hayman Island. Tranquility, adventure, indulgence, and relaxation are hallmarks of your three-night stay. The afternoon is free to enjoy a variety of activities from the plentiful resort menu. Meals BLD

7. Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Adventure
Explore the Great Barrier Reef on a full-day eco-cruise accompanied by a marine biologist, who provides insights into the fragile ecosystems of the reef. Enjoy snorkeling and swimming, or you can view the fantastic underwater world via a glass bottom boat or a semi-submersible. Meals BLD

8. Sensual Indulgence on Hayman
Spend the day your way on Hayman Island. Swim, snorkel or sunbathe; scuba dive down deep or soar high above by seaplane; sail away on a cocktail cruise under the stars; or try your hand at putting – or lobbing – or sending a rush shot to the wicket. Spend the day at the spa, or relax by the extraordinary pool – and when it comes to dining, Hayman promises superbly innovative and traditional cuisine with gracious, unintrusive service. Meals BD

9. Fly to Sydney
Depart your tropical paradise this morning for three nights in Sydney, one of the most exciting cities in the world. Your historic hotel is located right in the heart of Sydney, close to the Botanical Gardens and Circular Quay. The rest of the day is free upon your arrival. Meals B

10. Taronga Zoo / Harbour Cruise
A city sightseeing tour precedes a visit to Taronga Zoo; set on the waterfront, it is home to over 2,000 Australian, endangered and rare animals in their natural habitats. Enjoy a cocktail cruise on Sydney Harbour followed by dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Meals BD

11. Sydney Opera House
A guided visit to the impressive Sydney Opera House takes you inside for a fascinating in-depth, behind-the-scenes look. The remainder of the day is free. Meals B

12. Journey Home
Tour ends: Sydney Airport 2 ½ hours before the departure of our selected flight(s). You will depart Australia today while the rest of your group continues on to New Zealand. Meals B

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air, in coach or business, for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Hot Air Balloon on Day 4 – add $175

Please ask when booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our Guest Protection Plan.
 

Melbourne ~ Uluru (Ayers Rock) ~ Alice Springs ~ Cairns ~Hayman Island ~ Great Barrier Reef ~ Sydney
Tauck Discoveries

2 Cruises – Yarra River & Sydney Harbour
Take a historical look at Melbourne and discover its rich maritime heritage on a Yarra River cruise, and view iconic sights on a cocktail cruise through famous Sydney Harbour.

Aboriginal Heritage
Explore the cultural heritage of Australia’s Aboriginal people on a Dreamtime tour in Alice Springs.
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive Sydney / Harbour Cruise
Tour begins: 1:30 PM, InterContinental Sydney. A transfer is included from Sydney Airport to InterContinental Sydney. Established as a settlement for British convicts over two centuries ago, Sydney today is Australia’s largest city, set on one of the world’s most beautiful harbors. A sightseeing tour takes in the famed Sydney Harbour Bridge and The Rocks, Sydney’s oldest colonial district. Board a private boat for a cocktail cruise in Sydney Harbour, then enjoy a dinner of Australian specialties at a waterfront restaurant. Your hotel is in the heart of the city. Meals LD

2. Explore Sydney
Sightseeing today includes a visit to the Sydney Opera House, one of the most recognizable buildings in the world, as well as the Taronga Zoo for a look at Australia’s unique wildlife. Return to Sydney, where you’ll spend the remainder of the day exploring as you please. From restaurants to the cultural arts, Sydney has it all. Meals B

3. Discover Tropical Rainforests
Fly to Queensland to explore tropical rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef. Upon your arrival in Cairns, travel to Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park to learn about the cultural traditions of Aboriginal life. Your home for the next two nights is Silky Oaks Lodge, a tropical hideaway bordering Daintree Rainforest, regarded as the oldest living rainforest on earth. Secluded within 80 acres of lush rainforest, much of the hotel is built in the style of secluded treehouses. Meals BLD

4. Explore the Great Barrier Reef
The high-tech catamaran Quicksilver whisks you to the Great Barrier Reef to swim and snorkel, or to explore the dazzling kaleidoscope of color in the underwater world via a semi-submersible. Meals BLD

5. Fly to Melbourne
Fly from tropical Cairns to Melbourne, with its stately Victorian architecture and gardens; a late day arrival leaves the evening to explore as you please. Meals BD

6. Sights of Melbourne
A city sightseeing tour of Melbourne, set along the Yarra River, includes Fitzroy Gardens, Parliament House, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Anzac Memorial. The rest of the day is free to pursue what interests you most. Meals BD

7. Fly to New Zealand
Fly across the Tasman Sea to Auckland, New Zealand, the “City of Sails.” Auckland is renowned as a center for the arts, commerce, and transportation. Meals BD

8. Highlights of Auckland
Visit Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World and the Auckland War Memorial Museum – Te Papa Whakahiku. The museum is renowned for extensive collections featuring the natural, cultural and human history of New Zealand; you’ll gain insights into Maori culture when you attend a traditional Maori dance presentation. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore. Meals B

9. North Island Farm Visit / Rotorua
Travel to Longlands Farm in Matamata, a combination working farm and country gardens, where you’ll have lunch. Visit the Agrodome, a 160-hectare sheep and cattle farm, to learn about sheep farming en route to Rotorua and Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve – where geothermal activity includes bubbling mud pools, geysers, steam vents and hot springs. Meals BLD

10. Fiordland National Park / Te Anau
Fly to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park. Enjoy free time to explore the village overlooking Lake Te Anau, the South Island’s largest lake. Meals BD

11. Milford Sound Cruise
Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful destinations; your cruise through its amphitheatre of sheer cliffs, glacier-carved inlets, majestic waterfalls and snow-capped peaks is certain to be a highlight. Travel to Queenstown; set along the scenic shores of Lake Wakatipu, it has been voted by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler as the world’s “Friendliest Foreign City.” Meals BLD

12. Queenstown / Jet Boat
Shoot the Shotover River rapids on one of the world’s most exciting jet boat adventures, then board a helicopter for flightseeing over Queenstown and The Remarkables; land on Bobs Peak for a panoramic vista before a gondola ride down to town. Experience the beauty of New Zealand’s flora and fauna in their natural surroundings at the Kiwi and Birdlife Park, set on eight lovely acres. Meals B

13. Fly to Christchurch
Enjoy a magnificent sightseeing journey up the South Island on a flight to Christchurch, known as the “most English city outside of England”; spend the afternoon exploring at leisure. Join us this evening for a farewell cocktail reception followed by dinner. Meals BD

14. Depart New Zealand
Tour ends: Christchurch. A transfer is included from Millennium Hotel Christchurch to Christchurch International Airport. Please allow 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in at the airport. Meals B 

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air, in coach or business, for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Helicopter Sightseeing Day 12 Included… a value of over $200!

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Guest Protection Plan.
 

Victoria ~ New South Wales ~ Queensland ~ Auckland ~ Milford Sound
A comprehensive, two-week journey that explores Australia’s great cities, Sydney and Melbourne, tropical Queensland and the north and south islands of New Zealand! From top hotels in the best locations to in-depth sightseeing, you’ll truly experience the “Best of Australia & New Zealand” with Tauck!

Tauck Discoveries

Tauck Private Charter, Select Flights
Tauck Exclusive! Travel throughout New Zealand aboard a private business class air charter to maximize your sightseeing and minimize your time waiting at airports.

Marine Biologist, Great Barrier Reef
A talk by a marine biologist precedes a cruise by high-tech catamaran to Queensland’s amazing Great Barrier Reef, where you can swim and snorkel.

Lunch at Longlands Farm
Get a behind-the-scenes look at a New Zealand working dairy farm, and bountiful country gardens, on a visit that includes a delicious lunch.

Queenstown Adventures
Take a jet boat ride through the narrow gorges of the Shotover River; sightsee by helicopter, with a drop-off at Bobs Peak; and enjoy spectacular panoramic views traveling down the mountain by gondola.
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive Melbourne / Yarra River Cruise
Tour begins: 1:45 PM, Langham Hotel, Melbourne. A transfer is included from Melbourne Airport to The Langham Hotel, Melbourne. Afternoon sightseeing includes a cruise on the Yarra River; join us for a welcome dinner aboard the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. Meals LD

2. Discover Melbourne’s Charm
A tour of Melbourne is highlighted by sites such as St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Parliament House, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and the Shrine of Remembrance (ANZAC War Memorial); the rest of the day is free. Meals B

3. Alice Springs – A Town Called Alice
A morning flight from Melbourne brings you to Alice Springs, where an Aboriginal Dreamtime lunch precedes a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park. Learn how the Aborigines have managed the land for tens of thousands of years, and witness the unique flora and wildlife. Attend a barbecue dinner under the stars tonight, featuring bush tucker and stories. Meals BLD

4. Uluru (Ayers Rock), Desert Outback
Soar over the remote Australian desert outback on an optional ($175 per person) hot air balloon flight and a champagne breakfast, with incomparable views of red kangaroos and cattle stations. Fly to Uluru (Ayers Rock); the massive monolith looms high above the flat desert and is Aboriginal sacred ground. Have canapés and champagne as you watch the incredible desert sunset, where a spectrum of color changes the face of Uluru. Meals BLD

5. Fly to Cairns, Gateway to the Reef
Spend free time this morning at Uluru, then take a flight to Cairns in tropical Queensland; your hotel is close to just about everything. Meals B

6. Hayman Island & The Great Barrier Reef
A short flight from Cairns takes you to Hamilton Island, where a catamaran transports you to one of the world’s top resorts, Hayman Island. Tranquility, adventure, indulgence, and relaxation are hallmarks of your three-night stay. The afternoon is free to enjoy a variety of activities from the plentiful resort menu. Meals BLD

7. Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Adventure
Explore the Great Barrier Reef on a full-day eco-cruise accompanied by a marine biologist, who provides insights into the fragile ecosystems of the reef. Enjoy snorkeling and swimming, or you can view the fantastic underwater world via a glass bottom boat or a semi-submersible. Meals BLD

8. Sensual Indulgence on Hayman
Spend the day your way on Hayman Island. Swim, snorkel or sunbathe; scuba dive down deep or soar high above by seaplane; sail away on a cocktail cruise under the stars; or try your hand at putting – or lobbing – or sending a rush shot to the wicket. Spend the day at the spa, or relax by the extraordinary pool – and when it comes to dining, Hayman promises superbly innovative and traditional cuisine with gracious, unintrusive service. Meals BD

9. Fly to Sydney
Depart your tropical paradise this morning for three nights in Sydney, one of the most exciting cities in the world. Your historic hotel is located right in the heart of Sydney, close to the Botanical Gardens and Circular Quay. The rest of the day is free upon your arrival. Meals B

10. Taronga Zoo / Harbour Cruise
A city sightseeing tour precedes a visit to Taronga Zoo; set on the waterfront, it is home to over 2,000 Australian, endangered and rare animals in their natural habitats. Enjoy a cocktail cruise on Sydney Harbour followed by dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Meals BD

11. Sydney Opera House
A guided visit to the impressive Sydney Opera House takes you inside for a fascinating in-depth, behind-the-scenes look. The remainder of the day is free. Meals B

12. Fly to Auckland, New Zealand
Fly to Auckland, known as the “City of Sails” because of its spectacular waterfront location; it is New Zealand’s largest city. Your accommodation, The Langham Hotel, Auckland, is located in the heart of Auckland, close to the waterfront and the commercial center. Meals BD

13. Experience the Sights of Auckland
Visit Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World, an aquarium that offers a close-up look at New Zealand’s unusual marine life, on a morning sightseeing tour. You’ll also visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum, housing one of the world’s most extensive collections of Polynesian and Maori artifacts. Attend a special presentation of Maori dance and entertainment before spending the rest of the day as you please in Auckland. Meals B

14. Rotorua and Maori Traditions
Have lunch at Longlands Farm, a combination working farm and country garden, and visit the Agrodome to learn about sheep farming, one of New Zealand’s critical industries. Arrive in Rotorua for a walk through the Whakarewarewa Thermal Village to see the bubbling mud pools and geysers, as well as exhibits detailing village life and crafts of the Maori. Meals BLD

15. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Travel by air to the South Island’s Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, in the heart of the Southern Alps. You have an opportunity to take an optional helicopter flightseeing excursion to view the scenic beauty of Mount Cook if the weather cooperates (additional $195 per person; inquire at time of booking). A short flight takes you to Te Anau this afternoon. Meals BLD

16. Milford Sound Cruise
Begin the day in Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A cruise along the stunning waters and dramatic landscapes of Milford Sound includes sights such as rainforests with waterfalls cascading down sheer cliffs, glacier-carved inlets, and occasionally seals on the shore. Journey to Queenstown, New Zealand’s premier alpine resort area. Meals BLD

17. Queenstown / Jet Boat
Ride through the narrow gorges of the Shotover River Canyon on a Shotover Jet Boat; the river is famous for its towering rocky canyons; shoot the rapids and navigate narrow channels with breathtaking 360˚ spins. Spend the remainder of the day in Queenstown. Meals B

18. Explore Christchurch
Fly to the garden city of Christchurch, where gracious willow trees line the banks of the Avon River. Sightseeing includes beautiful public parks, gardens and historic sites of Christchurch, as well as a visit to the fascinating exhibits of the Canterbury Museum. Meals B

19. Christchurch at Leisure
Your entire day is free in Christchurch to pursue your own special interests. Please join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner. Meals BD

20. Journey Home
Tour ends: Christchurch. A transfer is included from Crowne Plaza Hotel Christchurch to Christchurch International Airport. Please allow 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in at the airport. Meals B 

Dates & Prices

Air Price Per Person
On-Tour Airfare does not include Sydney-Auckland trans-Tasman flight on day 12, which must be purchased with your international ticket.

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air, in coach or business, for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Hot Air Balloon on Day 4 – add $175

Mount Cook Helicopter Option on Day 15 – add $195

Please ask when booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our Guest Protection Plan.
 

Melbourne ~ Sydney ~ Uluru (Ayers Rock) ~ Hayman Island ~ Great Barrier Reef ~ Auckland~ Queenstown

Tauck Discoveries

Tauck Private Charter, Select Flights
Tauck Exclusive! Travel throughout New Zealand aboard a private business class air charter to maximize your sightseeing and minimize your time waiting at airports.

2 Cruises – Yarra River & Sydney Harbour
Take a historical look at Melbourne and discover its rich maritime heritage on a Yarra River cruise, and view iconic sights on a cocktail cruise through famous Sydney Harbour.

Aboriginal and Maori Heritage
Explore the cultural heritage of Australia’s Aboriginal people on a Dreamtime tour in Alice Springs. See Maori artifacts at the Auckland War Memorial Museum; attend a presentation of Maori music and dance.

Lunch at a New Zealand Dairy Farm
Have lunch at Longlands Farm on New Zealand’s North Island, where you’ll get a firsthand look at life on a working dairy farm.
 

Itinerary

Westbound Itinerary

1. Arrive Auckland
Tour begins: The Langham Hotel, Auckland. A transfer is included from Auckland Airport to The Langham Hotel, Auckland. After a city tour, visit Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner tonight.
Meals LD

2. Vineyards and Wineries
Take a short ferry ride to Waiheke Island, and learn the secrets of the picturesque island’s successful red wines. Meals BL

• 3. Auckland / Embark Cruise
Attend a Maori cultural performance at the Auckland War Memorial Museum; embark Sapphire Princess. Meals BD

• 4. Tauranga / Rotorua / Dairy Farm
A walk through Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley awaits on a private shore excursion to Rotorua. Enjoy lunch at Longlands Farm, a working dairy farm; learn about sheep farming on a visit to the Agrodome. Meals BLD

• 5. Spend the Day at Sea
Sapphire Princess offers on-board activities from the ScholarShip@Sea™ enrichment series to the Lotus Spa®. Meals BLD

• 6. Christchurch / Private Charter
A Christchurch city tour precedes a Tauck-exclusive charter flight to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Meals BLD

• 7. Dunedin / Queenstown
Sapphire Princess arrives in Dunedin; take a private charter flight to Queenstown for in-depth sightseeing. Meals BLD

• 8. Fiordland National Park
Cruise the beautiful waters of Fiordland National Park today, enjoying views of stunning Milford Sound. Meals BLD

• 9-10. Across the Tasman Sea
The next two days are spent cruising from the New Zealand to Australia’s island state of Tasmania. Evenings present a host of exciting entertainment possibilities! Meals BLD

• 11. Explore Hobart, Tasmania
Sapphire Princess arrives in Hobart, where you’ll travel to the Port Arthur Historic Site to discover the history of Australia’s early convict settlers. Lunch is served at the Junior Officer’s home, featuring servers in period dress.
Meals BLD

• 12. Day at Sea
Today is a sailing day, giving you plenty of opportunity to try more of the ship’s many on-board activities. Meals BLD

• 13. City Sights of Melbourne
Dock in Melbourne, where a sightseeing tour features stunning Victorian architecture. See the Melbourne Museum, Parliament House, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Meals BLD

• 14. Australian Coastal Cruise
Today marks your final day at sea aboard Sapphire Princess, and one last opportunity to indulge yourself! Meals BLD

15. Fly to Cairns / Port Douglas
Disembark Sapphire Princess in Sydney and fly to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Travel to Port Douglas on the Coral Sea for three nights in five-star luxury at an award-winning beachfront resort. Meals BLD

16. Great Barrier Reef Cruise
Cruise by catamaran to the Great Barrier Reef; you’ll be accompanied by a marine biologist who provides insights into the fragile ecosystems of the coral reef, which you can observe first hand from a glass-bottom boat. Meals BLD

17. Tjapukai / Resort Leisure
Learn about Aboriginal life, including the significance of song and dance within the Aboriginal culture, during a performance by the award-winning Tjapukai Aboriginal Dance Troupe. The rest of the day is free. Meals B

18. Fly to Sydney / Time at Leisure
Fly to Sydney, where the remainder of the day is at leisure in this vibrant, multi-cultural city. There is much to see and do within easy walking distance of your hotel. Meals BD

19. Sydney Opera House / City Sights
A sightseeing tour of Sydney includes the Sydney Opera House, an architectural and artistic masterpiece; go behind the scenes for a look inside its distinctive “sails”! See Sydney Harbour Bridge and Darling Harbour. Meals B

20. Taronga Zoo / Harbour Cruise
Visit the award-winning Taronga Zoo, and join us this evening for a farewell reception aboard a Sydney Harbour cruise, followed by dinner at a waterfront restaurant. Meals BD

21. Journey Home
Tour ends: Sydney, Australia. A transfer is included from Four Seasons Hotel Sydney to Sydney Airport. Allow a minimum of 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in. Meals B

Dates & Prices

Airfare to and from Hong Kong is additional and is not included in your tour package price; it should be arranged as part of your international air ticket. Ask upon booking.

Note: This tour is only available at the conclusion of Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand; it’s not accompanied by a Tauck Director, but is escorted by English-speaking local guides. Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights and our comprehensive Guest Protection Plan.
 

Auckland ~ Christchurch ~ Tasmania ~ Melbourne ~ Sydney ~ Port Douglas

• 8 nights on land in Auckland, Port Douglas and Sydney at 5-star hotels and resorts, and most meals included
• Private Tauck Shore Excursions – $1375 Value!
• Included air between Sydney and Cairns
• Private Tauck charter flights on shore excursions in New Zealand to Mount Cook and Queenstown
• A special lunch at the Port Arthur Historic Site in Tasmania and a day on Waiheke Island
• Private Tauck functions aboard Sapphire Princess
• A $240 credit for wine with dinner aboard the ship and gratuities to ship staff aboard Sapphire Princess

Tauck Discoveries

New Zealand Private Charter Flights
Private Tauck shore excursions on your 12-night cruise aboard the grand 2,670 passenger Sapphire Princess are highlighted by private Tauck charter flights to Mount Cook and Queenstown for special, exclusive sightseeing experiences that go way beyond the port!

Auckland, Sydney and Port Douglas
Multiple-night stays at five-star hotels in the heart of Auckland and Sydney, before and after your cruise, put you close to just about everything; you’ll also spend three nights at a luxurious five-star resort in Port Douglas on the Coral Sea, and explore the Great Barrier Reef.

Wine, Music and Crafts
Spend a day on Waiheke Island in New Zealand, home to boutique wineries, galleries and artists’ studios.