Australia and New Zealand | Jan 30 – Feb 22

Jan 30 – Feb 1 | US to Australia

Today board your flight to Sydney, Australia, crossing the International Date Line. Meet your Universal Travel representative and start the day with a brief panoramic city tour. Early this afternoon check into your 5-star hotel located in the heart of Sydney. The remainder of the evening is at leisure to relax and catch up on some sleep!

Overnight: Radisson Blue Plaza, Sydney or similar

Feb 2 | Sydney

Today you are getting to know Sydney on your full day sightseeing tour. Discover why Sydney’s  sparkling harbor is the jewel of the city’s crown. It’s flanked by golden beaches and bushland, and is home to one of the most famous bridges in the world. Spend some time at Bondi Beach, an iconic stretch of fine sand and curling waves, and one of the world’s most famous beach destinations. Later in the afternoon visit the Royal Botanical Garden. On your private walking tour learn about the diverse history and  culture of the indigenous people of the Sydney region with an Aboriginal guide. Uncover the Garden’s rich Aboriginal heritage by exploring plant uses, culture, artifacts, and tasting some bush foods. Return to your hotel later in the afternoon. Tonight’s dinner is included.

Overnight: Radisson Blue Plaza, Sydney or similar             (B, D)

Feb 3 | Sydney to Cairns

After breakfast this morning you check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport, and check in for your 3-hour flight bound for Cairns. Upon arrival you will be met by your local guide and travel to Cairns, where you will check into your 5-star hotel for the next four nights. Cairns is your gateway to the vibrant Tropical North Queensland region. You’ll find the warm climate reflected in a friendly welcome. Be lured by a stunning array of dining  choices, choose from a range of tours and see for yourself why Cairns has been voted Australia’s most livable regional city. Use Cairns as your base to explore lush tropical rainforest, cozy villages and to access tropical islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Dinner tonight is served at your hotel.

Overnight: Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns or similar                        (B,D)

Feb 4 | SkyRail, Pamagirri Experience & Army Duck – Rainforestation Nature Park

The day begins with a SkyRail ride on the Cableway. Enjoy superb aerial views of the lush rain forest. Spend time in the village of Kuranda, set in the midst of a spectacular rain forest. The village’s shops and markets are filled with exotically handcrafted goods. Next, you’ll visit Rainforestation Nature Park, an is an award-winning attraction located in in the midst of the World Heritage Rainforest in Kuranda. On this informative and entertaining visit will enjoy two unique experiences. Explore the rainforest on an authentic World War II Army Duck, and learn about the local rainforest flora and fauna. Splash into the lake and be mesmerized when this amphibious vehicle becomes a boat. Discover the world’s oldest surviving culture with the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience. Watch a traditional dance performance, spear presentation and be blown away by the didgeridoo, and have the opportunity to test your own boomerang throwing skills! Enjoy an Aussie BBQ Lunch with a delicious range of meats and salads. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

Overnight: Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns or similar           (B,L)

Feb 5 | Outer Great Barrier Reef

After an early breakfast you’ll travel to Port Douglas and begin the experience of a lifetime as you board a high-speed catamaran cruise bound for the Great Barrier Reef. The world’s largest coral reef is an area of extraordinary beauty – an amazing underwater world filled with color and variety! After a buffet lunch, the day is yours to fill with memories; swim, snorkel, or stay dry and ride in a semi-submersible coral viewer.

Overnight: Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns or similar                (B,L)

Feb 6 | Crocodile Adventure & Palm Cove

After breakfast  you are off to yet another adventure. Visit Hartley’s, one of Australia’s most famous wildlife and eco farms with a reputation for excellence. See crocodiles and local wildlife in Tropical North Queensland and learn about sustainable use and conservation at the farm. Explore over a mile of timber boardwalks and pathways leading you on a journey of discovery through woodlands and rainforest. You will see an array of wildlife, including beautiful tropical birds, reptiles, insects, and other native fauna, or take a boat cruise on Hartley’s Lagoon to see crocodiles and other wildlife on the melaleuca wetland. Next, you’ll visit Palm Cove Village, a tiny beachside village centered around an esplanade lined with 500-year-old melaleuca trees. Palm Cove was named after the palm trees that can be seen for miles along the beach. Enjoy small boutique shops and art galleries, take a stroll at the beach, or just relax with a tropical drink at one of the restaurants. This afternoon you visit the Cairns Aquarium for a private guided twilight tour, which gives you an insight into the nocturnal changes of the region’s nighttime creatures and predators. Early this evening, enjoy dinner at a special local restaurant.

Overnight: Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns or similar                   (B,D)

Feb 7 | Ayers Rock / Uluru

After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, you will transfer to the Cairns airport and check in for your 3-hour flight to Ayer’s Rock to see  Australia’s most famous natural landmark – Uluru. You will be met by a local guide and assisted with a transfer to your  5-star resort, located in the heart of the Australian Outback. Early this evening travel a short distance to Ayers Rock to view the sunset over this incredible landmark. The site is sacred to the indigenous people, who have lived around Uluru for more than 10,000 years. This means the indigenous people lived here while mammoths were becoming extinct in Eurasia and North America! Tonight a lavish dinner is served in the hotel’s dining room.

Overnight: Sails in the Desert, Ayers Rock or similar         (B,D)

Feb 8 | Uluru Sunrise and Base Tour | Sydney

Rise early to watch the day’s first light illuminate Uluru in a fantastic array of ever-changing colors. On the tour around the base of the rock, see ancient rock paintings, water holes, and hear stories of Aboriginal legends. From here, you return to your hotel for breakfast. After checking out of your hotel, visit the Cultural Centre and Maruku Arts and Craft Co-op to learn more of this ancient culture before you transfer to the airport and check-in for your 3-hour flight to Sydney. Enjoy tonight’s dinner at a special local restaurant!

Overnight: Radisson Blue Plaza, Sydney or similar              (B,D)

Feb 9 | Sydney – Embarkation Day

After checking out of your hotel this morning, be part of what is on most traveler’s agenda while visiting Sydney, a tour of the world famous Opera house. Officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on October 20, 1973, this UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece is one of Sydney’s most famous landmarks. Explore theaters and foyers where more than 1,600 concerts, operas, dramas, and ballets take place each year. Just in time for lunch, embark onto your floating hotel for the next 12 days. Get ready to experience laid-back luxury on the all-new Norwegian Spirit, modernized from bow-to-stern. The Spirit underwent a complete renovation and with a capacity of only 2,018 guests, it is the perfect size for the cruise itinerary that is ahead.

The ship sets sail at 6PM           (B,L,D)

Feb 10 | Eden | 8AM-3:30PM

The town’s name reflects what you will  indeed find in Eden – a beautiful natural wonderland. Situated on the rugged coastline of Australia’s New South Wales, Eden is nestled among national parks, wilderness areas and enticing beaches. It’s considered one of Australia’s best locations for oyster farming, so bring your appetite.                      (B,L,D)

Feb 11 | Burnie/ Tasmania | 10:45AM-6:30PM

A community of artisans on the northwest coast of Tasmania,  Burnie has long a history as a community that makes things, with locally crafted European-style cheeses, fine papers, ceramics and single-malt whisky. Surrounded by accessible wilderness  areas, in Burnie you can still get a glimpse of little penguins and the platypus, a duck-billed mammal, in the wild. The vibrant shopping district spills onto the beach where you can sit down at a café and watch the world slow down for a little while.                            (B,L,D)

Feb 12 | Melbourne | 8:30AM-6:30PM  

Once the richest city in the world thanks to a gold rush, Melbourne is Australia’s cultural capital with striking architecture, chic galleries and boutiques. There are a wide variety of optional excursions offered in this bustling city. Wave at a wallaby or get close to a koala at a wildlife park. Feel closer to the land on a ride on the Puffing Billy steam locomotive through the mountains and countryside. Back in the city, explore a different  culture and visit Chinatown – the oldest one in the West.                (B,L,D)

Feb 13 & 14 | At Sea

Two full days at sea give you time to luxuriate in the spa, watch the sunset, and dine with friends.                    (B,L,D)

Wave goodbye to the Sydney Opera House as you set sail on your  next adventure with twelve days aboard the Norwegian Spirit. On your first port of call explore Melbourne, the coastal capital of the southeastern Australian state of Victoria, before you cross the Tasman Sea. Among Fiordland’s spectacular landscapes on the South Island, you can experience the awe of Doubtful Sound’s natural beauty. Get the most out of your cruise itinerary by visiting seven ports of call in New Zealand. End your three week adventure with a farewell dinner at the Auckland Sky Tower with spectacular views.

When you sail with Norwegian Cruise Line, you are cruising on the most innovative and accommodating fleet on the high seas. NCL’s award-winning fleet was built for Freestyle, designed to give you freedom and flexibility for the perfect vacation. Experience laid-back luxury on Norwegian Spirit®, which has been renovated from bow to stern with the adult traveler in mind. Follow the sun instead of a timetable on this small, intimate ship where pampering and relaxation are always on deck. Feel rejuvenated with a morning in the Thermal Suite, then soak in fantastic vistas and the warm sunshine with your favorite beverage in hand at the adults-only Spice H2O. Get in the hot seat in the casino, roll into big laughs at the comedy club and enjoy mesmerizing live performances. Plus, savoring every moment at sea is a breeze with our line up of delicious cuisine, from Italian at Onda by Scarpetta and steak at Cagney’s to French dishes at Le Bistro and more! The Norwegian Spirit welcomes you aboard to soak in the stunning views of Australia & New Zealand!

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel | Sydney | Feb 1 – 3 & 8 – 9, 2026

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney is an intimate, boutique style, five-star hotel housed within a stunning heritage-listed building and located in the heart of Sydney, and within minutes of many shops and restaurants. The hotel features 364 stylish guest rooms, the Fax Bar, a Health Club, and complimentary internet access.

Shangri-La The Marina| Cairns, Queensland | Feb 3 – 7, 2026

Experience the warmth of genuine Australian hospitality at Shangri-La The Marina, Cairns. Prominently situated on the marina. Laze by the pool, surrounded by lush tropical gardens or adventure out to Cairns’ favorite attractions great stay. Offering 255 spacious and inviting guestrooms and suites. All rooms have private balconies along with memorable views of the city, the hotel’s tropical gardens, Trinity Bay or Marlin Marina. You are on your way to a truly great stay.

Sails In The Desert | Ayers Rock | Feb 7 – 8, 2026

In Australia’s Red Centre, the five star Sails in the Desert hotel beautifully contrasts Uluru’s raw natural beauty with a decidedly luxurious outback holiday experience. Soaring white sails crown Ayers Rock Resort’s Sails in the Desert hotel, shading 228 luxury five star rooms and suites. Discover the passion behind Aboriginal art at Sails in the Desert’s Mulgara Gallery. Sails in the Desert hotel features an expansive gumtree lined heated swimming pool and a diversity of modern dining, bar and lounge options.

The Grand by SkyCity | Auckland | Feb 21 – 22, 2026

Discover an oasis of luxury in the heart of Auckland’s vibrant city. The beautifully appointed, modern and spacious rooms are just the start of this five star experience.  Stunning views, award-winning dining, complimentary Wi-Fi and the tranquil East Day Spa await you. Ample shops, restaurants and the iconic Sky Tower are within easy walking distance from the hotel.

Feb 15 | Cruising the Fjordland National Park

At 25 miles in length, and five miles wide at its broadest, Dusky Sound is the largest and most spectacular fjord in Fjordland National Park. Captain Cook named Dusky Sound in 1770, as he sailed past its entrance at twilight. Carved by ancient glaciers, Milford Sound, (which is really a fjord), is the crown jewel of Fiordland National Park and a UNESCO World  Heritage site. Its vertical cliffs covered in verdant rainforests provide a breathtaking backdrop to thundering waterfalls, misty rainbows and the tannin stained waters of the fjord. Although technically not a sound (it’s a fjord), Doubtful Sound is the second longest in New Zealand and the country’s second most famous tourist attraction. It does, however, capture the top spot for being the deepest, at over 1,300 feet.                             (B,L,D)

Feb 16 | Dunedin | 9:30AM-7PM

Any optional tour you take today should really include a visit to the iconic railway station! Another iconic landmark to visit is the famous Larnach Castle, sitting at the peak of the peninsula. You will see amazing views from the impressive gardens. Another must see is Baldwin Street, the steepest in the world!              (B,L,D)

Feb 17 | Lyttleton/Christchurch | 9AM-7PM

Just 20 minutes from the center of Christchurch city, Lyttleton is a charming port town with a long history. Back in 1850, the first European settlers landed in Christchurch before heading over the Port Hills to establish their new home. Today, Lyttleton is accessed by an impressive road tunnel. It’s a vibrant town, home to a small community of 3,000 residents, filled with bohemian artists, cafés, restaurants, and unique shops to discover.                           (B,L,D)

Feb 18 | Wellington | 8AM-4PM

You’re in Lord of the Rings country, Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city. Take a behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Lord of the Rings film trilogy or depart on a picturesque drive along lovely Oriental Bay toward Mount Victoria, which offers a spectacular 360 view of Wellington and its well  protected harbor. Visit the Wellington Botanical Gardens, established in the 1860’s. Strolling through this wonderland of exotic and indigenous plants, you’ll see rare specimens of begonias, heritage roses, and aromatic herbs.                     (B,L,D)

Feb 19 | Napier | 6AM-2:30PM

Optional excursions include a half-day city highlights tour, drive through Napier’s Art Deco precinct before heading along the coast to sample some of Hawkes Bay’s best wines at a small boutique winery. Maybe visit the Art Deco district of Hastings and view some of the historic buildings rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake and soak in some beautiful countryside.                                      (B,L,D)

Feb 20 | Tauranga | 7:15AM-6:15PM

Rich with native culture and tradition, you’ll enjoy a variety of optional excursions and learn about the Maori, the indigenous people of New Zealand. Their language and culture have had a major impact on all facets of New Zealand life and here you can learn about their traditional art, ranging from carving and weaving to group performances and the well known tattooing!                                                (B,L,D)

Feb 21 | Auckland | 7AM

After disembarkation, meet your local guide for a half-day panoramic city tour of Auckland. On your tour see most important sights such as Mission Bay, Bastion Point, Parnell Village and the Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park situated on a 52,000 year-old volcano, and home to tropical gardens, duck ponds and a glorious winter garden. Head back to city center with free time for lunch and shopping before checking into your hotel. This evening take a trip up the Sky Tower, the tallest tower in the Southern Hemisphere with spectacular views of Auckland! Enjoy a farewell dinner (complete with a glass of wine or beer) at New Zealand’s only rotating restaurant offering 360-degree views, a truly unforgettable experience that never ceases to delight.                               (B,D)

Feb 22 | Auckland to US

Late this morning you are assisted with your transfer to the Auckland airport for your international flight home. Memories of your time Down under, and New Zealand will last forever.                                       (B)

Trip inclusions: 

• Roundtrip International airfare to Sydney & from Auckland back home (except luggage fees)
• Services of a Tour Director throughout the itinerary

Australia Land program:

• 3 flights within Australia (except luggage fees)
• 5 star hotel accommodations
• Luxury motor coach throughout the land itinerary
• 9 Days of sightseeing with local step on guides including Private Sydney Opera House Tour, Private Sydney Botanical Gardens Heritage Tour, Private Uluru Sunset, Sunrise & Base tour, Ayers Rock Cultural Center, One Way Sky Rail Rainforest Cable Car ride, Great Barrier Reef Cruise, Pamagirri Aboriginal  Experience & Army Duck – Rainforest tour, Crocodile Adventure at Hartley’s  Lagoon, Cairns Aquarium private guided twilight tour, and Sydney Harbor Dinner Cruise
• 8 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 5 Dinners
• Australia entrance Electronic Travel Authority
• All driver & guide gratuities prior your cruise

New Zealand land program:

• 5 star hotel accommodation in Auckland
• Half Day Panoramic City tour of Auckland (includes Local Step-on guide and luxury motor coach)
• 1 Breakfast & Farewell dinner at the Auckland Sky Tower
• New Zealand entrance Electronic Travel Authority
• All driver & guide gratuities while in Auckland

12 Day Cruise Norwegian Spirit:

• 12 nights aboard the Norwegian Spirit in your selected cabin
• All meals on board (exclusions apply)
• 3-night specialty dining balcony and above (incl. gratuities)
• 2-night specialty dining outside and below (incl. gratuities)
• Unlimited Beverage & Soda package (exclusions apply)

        (includes gratuities)                                                                                                                                      

• All cruise/port charges, & government taxes
• 300 minutes per person Internet/ WiFi package
• Ship Service Fees & Gratuities

$1,250.00 deposit is required to confirm reservation

Final payment due August 15, 2025 (No penalties until August 20, 2025)

Cancellation: 50% non-refundable August 26, 2025

100% non-refundable October 1, 2025