Bluewater Scuba Opt 3 [CD944-C]

Detailed Itinerary

22nd Feb 2013 (Day 1) - US Domestic Flight, Nashville to Dallas

Your Home City flight to Dallas, Texas will be selected to suit the International Departure Flight to Australia

Please allow 3 hours between arrival of your US domestic flight and departure of your International flight.

22nd Feb (Day 1) - International Flight, Dallas to Brisbane

Today travel with Qantas from Dallas Texas to Brisbane, Australia for your vacation.

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

24th Feb (Day 2) - Australian Domestic Flight, Brisbane to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Cairns.

24th Feb (Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation in Cairns, Australia.

Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container.

24th - 25th Feb (Days 2 to 3) - 1 Night Accommodation in Cairns

Enjoy 1 night at your 5-Star Cairns City accommodation.

Experience the genuine warmth of Australian hospitality at your luxury Cairns accommodation. Situated right on the marina, this hotel offers the perfect gateway to the reef, tours, and attractions, providing guests with an unforgettable Cairns getaway.

The hotel private pool offers a refreshing swim, surrounded by the soothing sound of waves. Take in breathtaking views of the marina and mountains while enjoying the contemporary Australian delights at The Backyard Restaurant & Bar. This upscale accommodation in the heart of Cairns is guaranteed to tantalize all your senses.

With its prime location next to the Reef Fleet Terminal and esplanade, just a 5-minute stroll to the city center and a 10-minute walk to the Cairns Convention Centre, you can easily explore all the hot spots. And if you're flying to or from Cairns, the domestic and international airports are only a quick 10-minute drive away.
 
Hotel Amenities
Free Wifi, Swimming Pool / Hot Tub, Gym, Day Spa, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Bar, Restaurant, Room Service, Paid Parking, Laundry Service
 
Preferred Room
Deluxe Room (City/Garden View) - 1 King OR 2 Queen OR 2 Singles - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station, Private Balcony, Air Conditioning, Shower Amenities, 800 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets, Hairdryer, Safe, Garden or City View, Flat screen TV, Walk-in shower.
 
Room Upgrades
- Executive Marina View - 1 King OR 2 Queen OR 2 Singles - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities, 800 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Marina View ; Flat screen TV ; Walk-in shower or bathtub.
- One Bedroom Suite - 1 King OR 2 Queen - Room Features: Kitchenette (Mini Fridge & Microwave) ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities, 1000 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Mountain or City Views ; Flat screen TV ; Shower & bath.
 
Need to know
Hotel subject to availability. If this hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be substituted. Room booked will be preferred unless otherwise listed on your quote.

25th - 28th Feb (Days 3 to 6) - 3 Nights - Live Aboard Diving Expedition

For Live-Aboard diving enthusiasts this live aboard dive trip represents the ultimate dive vacation. Dives include Osprey Reef, on the Coral Sea with other sites such as Cod Hole, Dynamite Pass, North Horn, Bougainville Reef, Steve's Bommie, Temple of Doom and Flare Point. With Gourmet Meals and the Outstanding Level of Service you will feel like you are aboard your own private yacht.

Day 1 Board Spirit of Freedom at 11:15am at Trinity Wharf (complimentary transfers from Cairns city hotels are available) for a 12 noon departure. Lunch will be served on board while we cruise to the Great Barrier Reef to the north of Cairns, for an afternoon orientation dive and a twilight or night dive.

Days 2 & 3 These two days are spent diving at the most northern of the Ribbon Reefs, Number 9 & 10 Ribbon Reefs, 120 miles to the north of Cairns. You will dive at the Cod Hole, where you encounter a family of massive and very friendly Potato Cod. Other sites may include Wonder-wall, Pixie Pinnacle, Challenger Bay, Two Towers, Lighthouse Bommie, and the Snake Pit, just to name a few. 4 to 5 dives will be available each day, including a night dive on Day 2. On Day 3 you will overnight at beautiful Watson's Bay, Lizard Island, and enjoy a sunset BBQ dinner on the top deck.

Day 4 This morning, after a leisurely breakfast, you have the opportunity to go ashore and explore Lizard Island. At 10:30am you will board a twin-engine light aircraft at Lizard Island for your low level flight over the reef back to Cairns. Arriving back at Cairns airport at approximately 11:30am, the Spirit of Freedom courtesy coach will meet you for your transfer back to your Cairns city hotel.

Operates Departs every Thursday from Cairns 12:00pm & Returns to Cairns 12:00pm every Sunday

Need to Know Diver experience recommendation: Open Water certification with minimum 10 ocean dives including 5 dives in the last 12 months. Less experience may result in limited diving due to environmental conditions. We recommend a Scuba Diver Refresher course prior to your trip.

Diver Health: If you have a medical condition or are currently taking prescription medication, you will need a medical clearance. For further details refer to our Diver Information form or contact our Reservations team.

Luggage Restrictions: Due to light aircraft restrictions, your total weight of your luggage is limited to 20 kilograms/ 45 lb per person, including your dive gear and carry-on luggage.

Snorkelers: Snorkeling on Spirit of Freedom is in waters which are exposed and not ‘calm sheltered waters’. The itinerary is best suited to Scuba Diving and you may not be able to snorkel at every site. There are opportunities to snorkel as the reef top of the Ribbon Reefs are relatively close to the surface. Most of the guests are scuba divers, however experienced snorkelers with a good level of fitness are welcome to join this tour. Please note that a snorkel buddy may not always be available, you may be required to snorkel alone and to wear our floatation equipment. You will be safe under the watchful eye of the 'look-out' crew.

Inclusions Transfers to/from Cairns city accommodation; Low level reef flight - Lizard Island to Cairns; Opportunity for up to 11 dives; Cabin with private bathroom and daily service; Chef prepared meals; Australian wines & soft drinks with evening meals

Upgrades Available Extend this trip to 7 day nights by including the Coral Sea and Ribbon Reefs Adventure

28th Feb - 4th Mar (Days 6 to 10) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Lizard Island

Enjoy 4 nights at your 5-Star Lizard Island accommodation.

Welcome to a secluded paradise in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. Nestled on a private island, this resort offers an exclusive retreat for travelers seeking unparalleled natural beauty and indulgent relaxation.
 
Step into a world of elegance and comfort as you enter exquisite accommodations, each meticulously designed to blend seamlessly with the island's breathtaking surroundings. From private villas with panoramic ocean views to beachfront suites mere steps from the sand, every aspect of your stay promises serenity and luxury.
 
Indulge your senses with exquisite culinary creations at an award-winning restaurant, where fresh local ingredients are transformed into unforgettable dishes inspired by the flavors of the region. Sip cocktails by the infinity pool or unwind with a treatment at a luxurious spa, where tranquility and rejuvenation await.
 
With direct access to the Great Barrier Reef, this resort is a haven for snorkeling, diving, and exploring the vibrant underwater world. Embark on a guided tour of the reef, discover secluded beaches, or simply relax on the pristine white sands of Anchor Bay.
 
Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this resort offers an unforgettable escape amidst the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Experience the epitome of luxury and adventure.
 
Hotel Amenities
Free Wifi, Beach Access, Swimming Pool, Gym, Day Spa, Bar, Restaurant
 
Preferred Room
Gardenview Room - 1 King OR 2 Singles - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station, Private Deck, Air Conditioning/Ceiling fans, Shower Amenities/Bath Robes, Hairdryer, Safe, Ocean View, Beach Towels/Beach Bags, LCD TV, Gourmet Meals & Unlimited non alcoholic beverages.
 
Room Upgrades
- Gardenview Suite - 1 King - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station ; Private Deck ; Air Conditioning/Ceiling fans ; Shower Amenities/Bath Robes ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Ocean View ; Beach Towels/Beach Bags ; LCD TV ; Gourmet Meals & Unlimited non alcoholic beverages.
- Oceanview Villa - 1 King OR 2 Singles - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station ; Private Deck ; Air Conditioning/Ceiling fans ; Shower Amenities/Bath Robes ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Ocean View ; Beach Towels/Beach Bags ; LCD TV ; Gourmet Meals & Unlimited non alcoholic beverages.
- Oceanview Plunge Pool Villa - 1 King - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station ; Private Deck ; Air Conditioning/Ceiling fans ; Shower Amenities/Bath Robes ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Ocean View ; Beach Towels/Beach Bags ; LCD TV ; Gourmet Meals & Unlimited non alcoholic beverages.
- Beachfront Suite - 1 King OR 2 Singles - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station ; Private Deck ; Air Conditioning/Ceiling fans ; Shower Amenities/Bath Robes ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Ocean View ; Beach Towels/Beach Bags ; LCD TV ; Gourmet Meals & Unlimited non alcoholic beverages.
 
Need to know
Hotel subject to availability. If this hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be substituted. Room booked will be preferred unless otherwise listed on your quote.

1st - 3rd Mar (Days 7 to 9) - Free Days to Explore Lizard Island

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

4th Mar (Day 10) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation in Cairns, Australia.

Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container.

4th - 5th Mar (Days 10 to 11) - 1 Night Accommodation in Cairns

Enjoy 1 night at your 5-Star Cairns City accommodation.

Experience the genuine warmth of Australian hospitality at your luxury Cairns accommodation. Situated right on the marina, this hotel offers the perfect gateway to the reef, tours, and attractions, providing guests with an unforgettable Cairns getaway.

The hotel private pool offers a refreshing swim, surrounded by the soothing sound of waves. Take in breathtaking views of the marina and mountains while enjoying the contemporary Australian delights at The Backyard Restaurant & Bar. This upscale accommodation in the heart of Cairns is guaranteed to tantalize all your senses.

With its prime location next to the Reef Fleet Terminal and esplanade, just a 5-minute stroll to the city center and a 10-minute walk to the Cairns Convention Centre, you can easily explore all the hot spots. And if you're flying to or from Cairns, the domestic and international airports are only a quick 10-minute drive away.
 
Hotel Amenities
Free Wifi, Swimming Pool / Hot Tub, Gym, Day Spa, 24-hr Reception, Luggage Storage, Bar, Restaurant, Room Service, Paid Parking, Laundry Service
 
Preferred Room
Deluxe Room (City/Garden View) - 1 King OR 2 Queen OR 2 Singles - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station, Private Balcony, Air Conditioning, Shower Amenities, 800 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets, Hairdryer, Safe, Garden or City View, Flat screen TV, Walk-in shower.
 
Room Upgrades
- Executive Marina View - 1 King OR 2 Queen OR 2 Singles - Room Features: Coffee & Tea Station ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities, 800 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Marina View ; Flat screen TV ; Walk-in shower or bathtub.
- One Bedroom Suite - 1 King OR 2 Queen - Room Features: Kitchenette (Mini Fridge & Microwave) ; Private Balcony ; Air Conditioning ; Shower Amenities, 1000 thread count Egyptian Cotton sheets ; Hairdryer ; Safe ; Mountain or City Views ; Flat screen TV ; Shower & bath.
 
Need to know
Hotel subject to availability. If this hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be substituted. Room booked will be preferred unless otherwise listed on your quote.

5th Mar (Day 11) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Cairns vacation accommodation to the Airport in Cairns, Australia.

Need to Know
Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each. Strollers are free. Bikes need to be in a bike bag. Fishing rods need to be broken down and in a container.

5th Mar (Day 11) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Sydney.

5th Mar (Day 11) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

Travel via shuttle to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

5th - 8th Mar (Days 11 to 14) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Your five star accommodation in Sydney for 3 Nights will offer you the magnificent views of Sydney Harbour.

A modern high rise tower with spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour. Your Accommodation is located at the fringe of historic Rocks area, near Opera House and the Central Business District, close to the Harbour Bridge, across from Bridgeclimb. Guest rooms are some of the most spacious and luxurious in Sydney and offer spectacular harbour views.

6th Mar (Day 12) - Day Tour, Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hr)

On your vacation, participate in an inspiring tour of the Sydney Opera House.

This one hour tour outlines the intricate and controversial history of the Sydney Opera House along with details of the unique design of this architectural masterpiece. You will visit a number of the six performance venues, including the magnificent wood paneled Concert Hall and the Opera Theater as well as the new Utzon room. You will also visit the glass enclosed northern foyer areas which boast spectacular views of Sydney Harbour - a perfect photo opportunity.

Operates
Daily, Hourly 9am to 5pm
Does not operate Good Friday, Christmas, New Year's Eve or Valentine's Day 2024

Includes
One hour guided experience.

Need to Know
This tour has 300+ stairs - Low Impact. It is strongly encouraged that you leave bags at your hotel and avoid bringing any large items to the Opera House (anything larger than an 8x10" sheet of paper). No luggage or large bags accepted. Videoing is not allowed. There are plenty of photo opportunities — your tour guide will advise you if photos are not to be taken at any point.

Upgrades
-Add a lunch, dinner or performance to your tour.
-Upgrade your experience with a private, backstage, or architectural tour.

7th Mar (Day 13) - Free Day to Explore Sydney

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

Walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbor-side Taronga Park Zoo or take the 30 minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, Sydney's premier beach resort. Here you can enjoy the laid back beach culture as well as many festivals and events. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is approximately a 10-minute train ride and is one of Australia's most famous and iconic beaches. Save some time to take a beach walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach, it's known to be a true highlight. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Blue Mountains and Australia Wildlife Tour

On your vacation, discover the spectacular Blue Mountains and see native wildlife Explore World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, located outside of Sydney, Australia.

Discover the spectacular World Heritage listed Blue Mountains and see native wildlife. Stretching for over one million hectares, the Blue Mountains is an inspiring mix of rainforest, canyons, tall forests and heathlands, truly one of Australia's natural one wonders.

Your first stop is at Echo Point where you can view the famous Three Sisters rock formation and hear the ancient Aboriginal legends of this impressive rock formation.

Visit the Waradah Aboriginal Centre and expreience Aboriginal song, dance, didgeridoo and culture.

Next, arrive at Scenic World where you will have free time to join the optional rides or grab some morning tea and enjoy the amazing views (own expense).

Discover Leura village, a delightful blend of groomed gardens and quaint shops. Enjoy free time to wander the streets of Leura and enjoy a delicious two course cafe style lunch at the Loaves and Dishes.

Next, experience an afternoon encounter at Featherdale Wildlife Park and have your photo taken with a cuddly koala, see kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and cute little penguins. Full Day Tour.

Depart approximately 8:00 AM, return at approximately 5:45 PM.

Upgrade to small group touring available - please inquire

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb - ½ Day

Reach new heights and climb the famous Harbour Bridge in Sydney!

Achieve exhilaration and personal satisfaction as you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For approximately 3.5 hours you and 11 other eager climbers will join a climb guide and weave through catwalks, climb up ladders and then arrive at the most spectacular point of all - the upper arch climb. The steady incline to the upper arch leaves you free to focus your attention on your Sydney experience, with opportunities for 360 degree views of Sydney, including east to the ocean, west to the mountains and the harbor city surrounds.

It is at this point that you not only have a bird's eye view of the beautiful Sydney Harbour and the city, but have the exhilarating and rewarding experience of reaching the top of the iconic Harbour Bridge.

When you reach the top you will have a sense of achievement you'll remember forever - you've conquered an Australian icon recognized the world over! No other Sydney tourist attraction can give you this feeling of standing at the top of the world, with the harbor spread before you.

All climbers will be issued a complimentary photograph of your climb group.

Operates:
Daily, in all weather conditions (except in cases of extreme weather conditions like electrical storms or high winds).

Need to Know:
- Wear comfortable, enclosed rubber-soled shoes and comfortable clothing;
- Secure lockers will be provided to store your personal belongings;
- No cameras, phones, GoPros or other video and mobile devices are allowed on the climb;
- Children ages 8 - 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Children younger than 8 are not permitted on the climb;
- Maximum of 14 people per group.

Times:
The climb lasts approximately 3.5 hours. Climbs are available at dawn (limited departures), day, twilight or night.

Inclusions:
BridgeClimb cap;
Certificate of Achievement;
A complimentary Climb Group photo.

Photo Credit: BridgeClimb Sydney.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Bushwalking - Full Day

Escape the city and discover unspoiled coastline, native bushland and wildlife on a one-day walking adventure through Sydney's Royal National Park.

Experience ancient Aboriginal carvings, stunning headlands, unique sandstone formations of Wave Rock and the White Cliffs of Marley and the secluded Marley beaches.

Have the best vantage point in Sydney for whale watching during the annual humpback migration between June and November. We love whales too and stop at every opportunity to watch them glide majestically past, so close you can hear them breathe and hear the splash of the water when they breach. Over 1800 were sighted from land in Sydney last June and July at an average of 28 a day.

Expertly guided and fully catered, this is the perfect way to get outside and discover Sydney's natural beauty. This is graded as an easy walk as it is relatively flat, although we do recommend moderate fitness. We walk up to 14km over 8 hours, including photo, rest and lunch breaks. Come prepared to hike, wearing enclosed, supportive shoes and appropriate clothing.


INCLUSIONS:
- Transfers from/to your central hotel accommodation
- Expert guide with detailed interpretation of flora, fauna and history of the area
- Return ferry fare from Cronulla to Bundeena on historic MV Curranulla
- Royal National Park entry fees
- Healthy lunch, carried for you
- Goody bag with fruit, energy snacks and sports drink
- Please bring your own water, approximately 2 litres each.

8th Mar (Day 14) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia, to the Airport.

8th Mar (Day 14) - International Flight, Sydney to Dallas

Today departure from Sydney to Dallas, Texas.

8th Mar (Day 14) - US Domestic Flight, Dallas, Texas to Nashville

The connection flight to your Home City from Dallas will be selected to suit the International Arrival flight from Australia.

Please allow 3 hours between arrival of International flight before departure of your US domestic flight.

.

.