Today we join our fellow travelers as we are transported to the Charlotte airport for our transpacific overnight flight to Cairns, Australia, crossing the International Date Line en-route.

Upon our arrival at the Cairns International Airport we enjoy the sights as we are transported to our hotel. We have the remainder of the day to acquaint our-selves with the hotel, our home for the next three nights, and explore the area at leisure.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the 'Aussie' culture as we board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway and travel across the rain- forest canopy. We stop to stroll along a boardwalk through the rainforest. At the end of our Skyrail journey in Kuranda, we visit the Rainforestation Nature Park. We see a performance by the Pamagirri Aboriginal dancers, witness a spear throwing demonstration, learn about aboriginal culture and try our hand at boomerang throwing. Upon returning to the hotel, which is conveniently located for local exploration, we have the afternoon and evening at leisure. (B)

After breakfast we discover the amazing underwater world of marine life on a full day excursion to the Outer Barrier Reef. We see colorful fish and coral through the glass bottom boat, watch a fish-feeding demonstration, snorkel, relax on the Sun Deck and enjoy a presentation about the Great Barrier Reef by the onboard Marine Biologist. (B, L)

After a morning flight to Sydney, we depart on a tour of this remarkable city built around one of the most spectacular harbors in the world. We witness the famous Bondi Beach with the sparkling ocean, white sand and casual café's in the surrounding area. We visit Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, a well-known landmark, and perfect location to photograph the Opera House and Harbor Bridge. After our tour, we check-in to the hotel for our three night stay in Sydney. Our hotel is conveniently located to spend the rest of the day exploring this beautiful city on our own. (B)

Our day begins with a guided visit of the world-famous Opera House, Sydney's most recognizable landmark. Learn about the inspiration behind the masterful architecture and see private areas inside this UNESCO World Heritage Site. After our visit, you may choose to stay and enjoy the lively atmosphere in the harbor area, or return to the hotel by coach. This evening enjoy a relaxing sunset dinner cruise of the magnificent harbor. (B, D)

Today, enjoy the scenic beauty of the Blue Mountains National Park. At Featherdale Wildlife Park, we have an up-close encounter with the abundant native wildlife; having the opportunity to hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, talk with the naturalist guides throughout the park, and see the native koalas. We travel the scenic Cliff Drive of the Blue Mountains to Echo Point to see the Three Sisters rock formation – one of the area's best-known sites and great place to take photos. Nearby, we board the Scenic Railway for a ride on the world's steepest incline railway. After an exhilarating day in the bush and mountains, we return to Sydney to enjoy the evening. (B)

Today, we fly to Melbourne, Australia, a cosmopolitan yet historic city. Enroute to the hotel, we begin our orientation of Melbourne with a scenic tour. This afternoon you may relax or explore this amazing city. An optional excursion to Philip Island to see the “penguin parade” will be offered. (B)

The day is left free of planned activities for your independent exploration of Melbourne, home to a variety of activities and sights. Our hotel is conveniently located, so you may choose to visit a museum or the beautiful parks and gardens; see Captain Cook's Cottage; wander through the historic Queen Victoria Market – the largest open-air market in the southern hemisphere – with plenty of opportunity for souvenir shopping! Or stop by Federation Square, a lively cultural district with art, museums, and restaurants. This evening, we enjoy amazing views of the city from the observation deck on the 88th floor of Eureka Tower, followed by dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

This morning we leave Australia and fly to New Zealand. After arrival in Queenstown we enjoy an orientation tour of the city, situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by majestic mountains. Later we check-in to our hotel for the next three nights, enjoying the remainder of the day at leisure. (B)

Today's adventure is a narrated cruise through the beautiful Milford Sound. As we traverse this awe-inspiring fjord, see the breathtaking drama of sheer cliffs, massive waterfalls, glaciers and rainforest as we keep an eye out for local wildlife…seals basking in the sun on the rocks or dolphins frolicking in the water. Lunch is included during our excursion. (B, L)

What better way to see the snow-capped mountains, picturesque bays and scenic splendor than on a cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw. We witness nature's majesty while cruising along Lake Wakatipu on this coal-fired vintage steamship. Having crossed the lake, we visit Walter Peak Farm to explore the grounds, see the gardens, and watch a farm demonstration by our host. We enjoy a delicious lunch at the Colonel's Homestead before returning to our hotel. (B, L)

After breakfast, we depart Queenstown by coach to Christchurch. En-route, we stop in the town of Twizel for views of Mt. Cook – the highest mountain in New Zealand. We'll continue our journey to scenic Lake Tekapo with its amazing turquoise color and surrounding stunning landscapes. During free time stop to take photos at the Church of the Good Shepherd in its' beautiful setting, see the town's 'sheepdog statue', and enjoy lunch in one of the café's. We travel through the Canterbury Plains as we make our way to Christchurch, and upon arrival, we check-in to our hotel for the next two nights. (B, D)

Our final day in New Zealand begins with a scenic orientation tour. Once we are familiar with the surroundings, our hotel is conveniently located for an afternoon at leisure exploring this vibrant city. This evening enjoy a lively Maori cultural performance and Hangi Feast as we join our fellow travelers for our farewell dinner. (B, D)

It's time to bid 'g'day' to the lands 'down under' as we depart for the Christchurch Airport. Memories of the sites and experiences we encountered along with the hospitable ‘Aussies' and ‘Kiwis' we met along the way will be cherished for a lifetime. (B)