Australia: Reefs, Rainforests & Wild Tasmania

Arrive at Cairns International Airport (CNS) and transfer to your hotel, a luxurious resort near the coast. In the evening, meet your fellow Guests and the expedition team during a welcome reception, followed by dinner.

Spend a day immersed in the stunning beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Board a high-speed vessel bound for a floating island platform—your home base for the rest of the day—then discover the reef’s colorful corals and abundant marine life while snorkeling amid its waters. Marvel at wonders below the surface from an undersea observatory and with the help of semi-submersible vehicles. You can also go for a refreshing swim, lounge on a sun deck and take in panoramic views of the sparkling ocean. In the evening, you’ll have time to explore the town of Port Douglas on your own or to relax at the hotel.

Journey north to the ancient Daintree Rainforest, one of Australia’s most biodiverse ecosystems with a history stretching back nearly 180 million years. Learn about the forest’s thriving environment from local experts on a private cruise of the Daintree River, keeping an eye out for the saltwater crocodiles that call these waters their home. With over 400 species of birds in this region, you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to spot avian wildlife, such as the great-billed heron and the little kingfisher. In the afternoon, enjoy a traditional welcome ceremony before a gentle walk through the forest with an indigenous guide. Marvel at the rolling waters of Mossman Gorge, one of the most photographed places in the area. Then, return to the hotel for an engaging presentation from a National Geographic Expert, followed by dinner with your fellow Guests.

Fly to Melbourne and travel to Federation Square, a bustling art district with museums and galleries honoring Australia’s indigenous communities. Learn about the region’s history and culture on a fascinating visit to the Koorie Heritage Trust, where you’ll attend an interpretive presentation, followed by a walk along the Yara River to gain insight on the impact of colonization. Continue to the Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia for Indigenous Art, a gallery that features works by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities. In the evening, join your fellow Guests for dinner at a local restaurant in Melbourne.

This morning, explore Dandenong Ranges National Park, a breathtaking natural reserve with forested slopes, volcanic hills and winding rivers. Coast through the southern foothills on a restored antique steam train, then head to the renowned Yarra Valley for a tour of a vineyard, followed by a wine tasting. In the afternoon, arrive at the Healesville Sanctuary, an organization dedicated to rescuing and conserving Australia’s native animals. Embark on a private tour of the grounds, walking alongside local guides who will point out the country’s iconic wildlife. See some of the area’s birds up close during a show led by an avian expert. Afterwards, return to the hotel for an evening at your leisure.

Travel to the wild island of Tasmania, stopping at a local vineyard for lunch paired with a glass of wine. Continue on to Freycinet National Park, a picturesque, protected area known for its dynamic mix of landscapes—from crystal bays and white-sand beaches to rocky outcrops and forested mountains. Check in to your hotel, situated within the grounds of the park, and opt to go on a gentle hike before journeying to the seaside town of Bicheno. As the sun sets, watch for endangered fairy penguins emerging from the sea and moving to their rookery.

Discover the marine wonders of Freycinet National Park on a catamaran cruise of Wineglass Bay. Cruise the stunning granite coastline of the Freycinet Peninsula, keeping an eye out for spectacular wildlife, such as fur seals, dolphins and migrating humpback whales. Relax in the ship's lounge as you take in panoramic views of the coast alongside a National Geographic Expert, who will be happy to answer questions or share insights on the scenery that surrounds you. Afterwards, return to the lodge and enjoy an afternoon and evening to explore the park on you own.

After breakfast, make your way south, stopping at a scenic winery for lunch. Continue to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary for a private tour of the area, led by guides experienced in the rehabilitation and on-site care of the island’s animals. As you explore, keep an eye out for eastern grey kangaroos, wombats and the iconic Tasmanian devil. Then, head to Hobart and embark on a privately guided walk through town, learning about the city’s colonial history and connection to the sea. Cap off the day with a presentation on Tasmania’s Aboriginal art and the enduring traditions of the island’s indigenous peoples. Spend the evening at your leisure, exploring Hobart on your own or sitting down for dinner at the hotel.

Travel to the historic town of Port Arthur, where you’ll visit its UNESCO World Heritage-listed penitentiary. Learn about the area’s tumultuous history as you walk its grounds, then gather for lunch at a local café. Drive back to Hobart and attend a fascinating presentation given by a National Geographic Expert. In the evening, join your fellow Guests for a lively farewell reception and dinner.

Arrive in iconic Sydney and head to its famed harbor for a lunch featuring dishes inspired by indigenous cuisine. Step into history on a guided walk through The Rocks, a neighborhood with strong ties to the land's traditional Aboriginal keepers. Stroll along streets established by European settlers, see preserved shopfronts and learn about areas built by communities of transported convicts. Finally, embark a private tour of the landmark that defines the city’s skyline: the Sydney Opera House. The night is yours to explore as you choose. Take advantage of the hotel’s many amenities or uncover the local food scene in The Rocks district.

After breakfast, transfer to the Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) for flights home.