Australia

AUSTRALIA

Featuring an 11-day cruise to Australia’s great coastal cities PLUS Sydney

March 10 – 24, 2018

Start with Australia’s “in” city, Sydney, and visit the Opera House, the “Rocks,” Watson’s Bay and more. Then board your luxurious Sea Princess cruise ship as you journey to such places as Cairns to ride on the Kuranda railway; the magical Great Barrier Reef from Port Douglas. Visit Brisbane and cuddle a Koala at the Koala Sanctuary; Plus cruise to the scenic ports such as Airie Beach and Willis Island.

Hosted by previous AAJ group leaders Melody Michaux and Anne Gordon, this is a wonderful way to enjoy and experience the best of Australia.

ITINERARY

Day 1-Saturday, March 10: Depart from Atlanta or NYC
Depart from Atlanta or JFK to Los Angeles, where both groups meet and board your connecting flight to Sydney.

Day 2-Sunday, March 11: Cross the International Dateline
Lose a day as you cross the International Dateline (which you gain back on your return).

Day 3-Monday, March 12: Arrive in Sydney, Australia (D)
Morning arrival in Sydney, where after clearing Immigrations and Customs, we are met and escorted to our reserved hotel accommodations. As some of the rooms may not be ready on arrival, arrangements will be made to leave your luggage with the front desk and taken to your room once it is available. This allows you to relax, do a bit of walking and have lunch. After checking in, relax before our welcome dinner at the hotel.

Day 4-Tuesday, March 13: In Sydney (B/D)
After a hearty breakfast, we first visit the Rocks – Sydney’s birthplace and see fascinating relics and buildings of the city’s turbulent past. Pass the picturesque Botanical Gardens, the Conservatorium of Music, Art Gallery and Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, stopping for spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House. Then it’s back to the city’s commercial center, Darling Harbour and Chinatown before travelling through Kings Cross and the exclusive suburbs of Double Bay, Rose Bay and finally Watson’s Bay for a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean from The Gap. Arrive at famous Bondi Beach for a brief stop before returning to the city via Paddington to view its restored 19th Century Colonial Terraces.

In the afternoon tour of the famous Sydney Opera House.

More than 60 years ago, Jorn Utzon designed what is now considered one of the greatest buildings of all time. But for Utzon, the Sydney Opera House story was no fairytale. The Sydney Opera House Tour brings to life the saga behind the making of the world’s most famous house. Using state-of-the-art audio visual technology, your welcoming guide will take you on an emotional journey inside this modern masterpiece. This tour puts Jorn Utzon on center stage and is a tribute to his creative genius. We’ll discover why Utzon was more than an architect: he was an architect of change. And how, against a landslide of political and public criticism, he created the youngest building ever world heritage listed. We will be taken inside one of the working venues to experience the magic behind the world’s most extraordinary opera, ballet, symphony and dramatic performances. This Tour brings the Sydney Opera House to life. Return to our hotel for dinner.

Day 5-Wednesday, March 14: Depart on our Cruise
The morning is at leisure for some independent exploration. Soak up Sydney’s gorgeous harbour, seductive outdoor lifestyle and great natural beauty. Lose yourself in the cobblestone cul-de-sacs of The Rocks or in the markets, boutiques, cafes and pubs of Paddington. Sydney offers fabulous food, festivals and 24/7 fun. In the afternoon, we will be transferred from our hotel to the pier to board our cruise ship that sails at 4pm.

Day 6-Thursday, March 15: Full day at Sea
Live performances, music and dance lessons, local foods and more will give you a deeper connection to the places you visit. Today’s activity may include options may include a traditional Maori performance or local dishes served in the main dining room.

Day 7-Friday, March 16: Full Day at Sea
Get more out of your travels with engaging multi-media presentations by local destination experts, plus naturalists and specialists in their fields, who will enlighten you about the places you’ll visit.

Day 8-Saturday, March 17: Airlie Beach
We arrive at Airlie beach about 7 am, when we can board tenders to take us to the coastal village of Airlie Beach, a vibrant town filled with palm-fringed beaches, waterfront parks and alfresco dining restaurants. We are sure to instantly warm to its bohemian charm and carefree and relaxed attitude. Airlie Beach epitomizes the relaxed and cosmopolitan Australian beach lifestyle. Shute Harbor Road, the main street and backbone of Airlie Beach, is lined with outdoor restaurants, cafes and bars. Stay at your leisure before going back to the Sea Princess for our 4 pm departure.

Day 9-Sunday, March 18: Cairns
Our tour today starts with a coach ride to the town of Kuranda as we cross the Barron River and ascent the rainforest slopes of the Kuranda Ridge. On arrival at the Village, we will have free time to browse, explore and shop for exotically handicraft goods and Aboriginal artifacts. Lunch will be on our own and then we all meet at the Kuranda station – the famous “Village in the Rainforest” – to experience the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway as it meanders through the ancient rainforest and back to Cairns. This enchanting journey will take us in comfort through this rugged and once untamed landscape as we learn about the history of this engineering triumph while taking in the breathtaking scenery. Keep your camera ready for a photo stop at Barron Falls Lookout. The lookout offers spectacular views of Barron Falls cascading over 800 feet through the Kuranda rainforest. Return to our cruise ship in the later afternoon.

Day 10-Monday, March 19: Port Douglas – Great Barrier Reef
After breakfast, we embark on our adventure to the outer Barrier Reef. Our Catamaran is fully equipped with restrooms, covered areas and a sunning deck as we cruise having both morning tea and a buffet lunch. During the passage, a marine naturalist hosts an informative presentation on the reef complex, one of the seven natural wonders of the world and is the most unique ecosystems on earth. The basis of the reef is the corals, which can be found in every color, shape and form imaginable. Rainbow-colored fish, giant clams, starfish, sea cucumbers, anemones, sponges, eels, rays and turtles along with countless other creatures call the Great Barrier Reef home. The cruise is about three hours and we will have free time to indulge in a wide variety of aquatic activities. There are many exciting options to choose from, each dedicated to giving you an interactive experience. Snorkeling in the area is some of the best in the world, and suitable for all levels. You may also choose a guided coral viewing from a semi-submersible boat, a fantastic way to see the underwater world without getting wet! An exciting fish feeding exhibition, an underwater theater and an on board marine touch tank deepens your understanding of the creatures in the sea. Additional activities such as certified and introductory scuba dives, At the end of our fantastic day of fun and sun, we enjoy a relaxing cruise back to Port Douglas where you will be transferred back to the Sea Princess.

Day 11-Tuesday, March 20: Willis Island
Despite its small size, Willis Island is the only permanently inhabited island in the Coral Sea Islands. The real attractions to Willis Island is its tropical landscape and the wildlife found throughout the coral reef surrounding the area. Our ship will do a slow one-hour scenic cruise around the Island and surrounding area as our onboard guide points out the scenic highlights.

Day 12-Wednesday, March 21: Full Day at Sea
Maybe today, take an exclusive behind-the-scenes access with our Ultimate Ship Tour. As one of the most intriguing cruise activities, explore the engine control room, medical center, galley, laundry operations, and take in the dramatic views from the bridge’s wraparound windows – plus you’ll get to meet the captain!

Day 13-Thursday, March 22: Brisbane
Once considered the “country cousin” among Australian cities, Brisbane is today the nation’s third-largest metropolis – and one of the most desirable places to live in the country. Today’s tour will show us Brisbane’s best sights including the beautiful botanic gardens, Mount Cootha Kangaroo point cliffs, Maritime Museum, Southbank Precinct, the Story Bridge and many more of this city’s spectacular attractions. Stroll the outdoor decks, soak up the sunshine and enjoy the most unique dining experience with our Brisbane lunch cruise board Brisbane’s truly unique icons – the Kookaburra Queen paddle wheelers. Highlight will be a visit to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary with over 130 koalas. Hold a koala anytime, hand feed kangaroos and meet a large variety of Australian wildlife in beautiful, natural settings. Return to our ship in the later afternoon.

Day 14-Friday, March 23: Full day at Sea
A full day at sea to enjoy reading, sunning, swimming in the pool, napping, or just relaxing and enjoying the views of the South Pacific as you cruise back to Sydney.

Day 15-Saturday, March 24: Depart Sydney for the USA
Depart from Sydney on your connecting flights to Los Angeles, where you continue to Atlanta or JFK. Same day arrivals as you pick up the day you lost on the way “Down-Under.”

Our Tour Includes:
* Round-trip flights to Australia
* Airport transfers
* Accommodations at the 1st Class Park Royal Darling Harbor Hotel in Sydney
* Breakfast every day
* “Welcome” dinner in Sydney
* Cruising on board the Sea Princess with all the dining varieties, wonderful activities and exciting nightlife that only a Princess cruise can offer

Some of the many Extra Features:
* Sydney Harbor Cruise
* Visit to the Sydney Opera House
* Great Barrier Reef cruise and tour
* Skyrail Rainforest Journey
* Ride the Kuranda Scenic Railway
* Cuddle a Koala Bear
* Brisbane city tour and cruise on the Brisbane River
* And more…

Our Hotel in Sydney – The Parkroyal Darling Harbour, Sydney
Located on the city-side of Darling Harbour, the hotel offers premium accommodation within minutes of the city’s most popular sights and attractions. Its central location means that many of the hotel’s rooms enjoy views of Darling Harbour and the nearby landmarks such as Cockle Bay, King Street Wharf and more.

Your Cruise Ship – Princess Cruises’ Sea Princess
Dine in the manner that suits your schedule instead of cramping your style. Choose from Traditional Dining, Specialty Dining or Casual Dining. Fill your days with activities and do nothing the next. Take a personal enrichment class, do yoga, go duty-free shopping, or just relax with a dip in one of the pools or spas. Nights are always abuzz with activity, and it’s up to you to choose your pleasure – from live theater and the big screen, to plush lounges, swanky casinos and dance clubs.

Dining on board your Princess cruise ship is a joyful celebration in the truest sense with every dish “designed for fresh” and crafted to exceed even the most discerning appetites. From hand-tossed pizza to dazzling multi-course gourmet dinners, you’ll find enticing food and dining options throughout the day, as lovingly prepared as a home cooked meal.

Nights are always abuzz with activity, and it’s up to you to choose your pleasure – from live theater and the big screen, to plush lounges, swanky casinos and dance clubs to catch reggae, Top-40 and even mariachi music on deck poolside. Tap your toes to cover bands, torch singers, and even karaoke in the night clubs. You might even catch a string quartet in the Piazza or a sing-along at the piano bar.

Shop ‘til You Drop on board, as shopping is like being transported to the hottest European outlets. You’ll be dazzled by an immense array of products at exceptionally competitive prices, You’ll find fine merchandise from brands like Swarovski, Chanel, Estée Lauder, Clinique, Lancôme, Calvin Klein, Citizen and Tossot, plus local crafts, keepsakes and souvenirs. From designer clothes and jewelry, to perfume and cosmetics.. Shops often have special offers and fashion shows, and each member of the helpful staff will assist you in finding whatever you want or need. It’s no surprise that The Shops are awarded “Best Onboard Shopping” from Porthole magazine year after year. You’ll find fine merchandise from brands like Swarovski, Chanel, Estée Lauder, Clinique, Lancôme, Calvin Klein, Citizen and Tossot, plus local crafts, keepsakes and souvenirs.

Las Vegas style casino? It’s like Las Vegas, Atlantic City, even Monte Carlo — but on the high seas! If you know when to hold ’em and know when to fold ’em, then ante up at the posh table games including popular versions of blackjack and poker, thrilling craps and you may even want to take a few spins at the roulette wheel. There are also tournaments for the intrepid gambler. If the sound of reels spinning in search of the magic jackpot is more your style, or you like to play poker at your own pace, the gaming machines will do just the trick. They have a wide range of slot and video poker machines, offering a variety of games — and payouts! There even is Bingo onboard.

Take a dip in the sparkling freshwater pools or unwind in the hot tubs and padded loungers. You’ll also find Movies Under the Stars®, hilarious pool competitions, cocktails mixing demonstration, bars, our their world-famous pizza and even complimentary soft serve ice cream.

For sporting enthusiasts, you’ll find Basketball sports court, Ping Pong, Miniature golf putting course, Golf Driving Range and Shuffleboard.

The Princess Cruises Book Club offers an opportunity to interact with fellow guests who share your passion for reading. Or you can visit the onboard library where you’ll find a wide selection, from classics to today’s best sellers.

Add a new twist or two to your dance moves with a wide variety of fun classes like country line dancing, ballroom, salsa, and more. Get your heart pumping with a high-energy Zumba class or take your sweetheart for a spin on one of the pulsating night clubs.

Professional Hairdressing Services on Board – Just because you are traveling, there’s no reason you can’t feel well-coiffed and glamorous every day. Your cruise ship is equipped with a professional salon staffed by expert hairdressers, stylists, manicurists and pedicurists and stocked with the best products.

Please Read the Terms and Conditions for this Tour

** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

*Special No Interest + No Payments for 6 Months Plan Now Available!
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Prices: Note the below prices are based on 2017 airfares and current exchange rates. They are subject to change should there be extensive fluctuations for 2018 airfare rates and foreign currency changes.

PRICE PER PERSON FROM ATLANTA
For Oceanview Cabin
Per Person in Double Occupancy room/cabin
$4,299 via check or money order
$4,525 via credit card

Per Person in Triple Occupancy room/cabin
$4,069 via check or money order
$4,279 via credit card