Southampton to Adelaide - 59 nights, January 2014

Enjoy a once in a lifetime experience at the world’s largest reef system, the Great Barrier Reef.

The Great Barrier Reef is truly one of the great wonders of the natural world. This flourishing living reef was formed millions of years ago and is now home to hundreds of different types of colourful fish and coral.

Join your air-conditioned luxury catamaran for a scenic transfer to the Knuckle Reef pontoon. You will have approximately three hours to indulge in a variety of activities at the reef. The submerged paradise can be explored during a ride in the semi-submersible or from the pontoon’s underwater viewing chamber - these options allow you to spot the tropical fish and intricate coral gardens without getting wet. For those wishing to get closer to the world’s richest marine habitat there will be plenty of time to swim and snorkel or simply relax on the shaded sun-deck and admire the views.

During your visit, you’ll enjoy a buffet luncheon accompanied by tea or coffee.

Note: The fare includes a fee which goes towards the management and protection of the reef. There are approximately ten steps to access the catamaran, semi-submersible and viewing chamber. Please bring a towel, sunscreen and swimwear. Do not carry valuables as there are no lockers available. There is a no smoking policy on the catamaran and reef pontoon. The tour operates in all weather and cancellation is at the discretion of the Harbour Master. Those prone to seasickness should take the necessary precautions. Independent suppliers at the pontoon offer watersports such as scuba and guided snorkel tours, these are provided by parties unconnected to Cunard and are payable direct. Qualified scuba divers require proof of certification. Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ and ‘Beach/Water Related’ related paragraphs under the ‘Guide to Symbols’ in this brochure. Please remember to carry a credit card or local currency for any additional purchases.

A wonderful opportunity to experience a South African Safari. Go in search of the “Big Five” and enjoy the exceptional Pumba hospitality.

DAY 1 – EVENING AT PUMBA
From Durban, take a 1 ½ hour flight to Port Elizabeth. A drive from the open highway takes you deep into the wild bushland. The Pumba Private Game Reserve covers 6500 hectares of privately-owned property in the Eastern Cape, designated a Malaria free zone. Pumba’s Water Lodge overlooks Lake Kariega and offers traditional African safari coupled with five-star luxury resulting in a perfect balance of casual opulence. The Reserve is home to Africa's ‘Big Five’ along with other famous species such as giraffe, zebra, hippo and warthog, also known as ‘Pumba’. On arrival at Water Lodge, timber footpaths lead you to your thatched chalets complete with private deck and invigorating outdoor showers. You’ll have time to settle in before embarking on your dusk game drive, giving you the best opportunity to see wildlife at its most active. Dinner will be served at the Lodge allowing you to discuss your evening’s adventures over some excellent South African cuisine and wine.

DAY 2 – DAWN & DUSK GAME DRIVE
After an early morning wake-up call, you’ll depart on a morning game drive, returning to the Lodge for a full breakfast. Spend the remainder of the morning at leisure. Relax in the spacious lounge or open deck and watch out for wildlife on the Lake. Luncheon will be served, after which you are free to relax and simply soak up the wonderful Lodge atmosphere. Following afternoon tea, depart on dusk game drive where your experienced ranger will allow you to make the most of your time in the bush, tracking animals and later enjoying sundowners. Perhaps during your day’s activities, you’ll have been lucky enough to spot one of the local white lions, elephants or even the enigmatic leopards. Returning to the Lodge, dinner will be served.

DAY 3 –DAWN GAME DRIVE & PORT ELIZABETH
Another early morning start allows you one last chance to head out into the wilds for a morning game drive in search of the ‘Big Five’. On your return, sit down to a leisurely breakfast before checking out for your departure. You’ll drive back to Port Elizabeth where Queen Mary 2 will be waiting to welcome you back on board in time for luncheon.

Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 14th December 2012. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = DUR800A, Single = DUR801A). Prices shown on your overland excursions record are per person, not per room. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee. This tour will depart from Durban on 6th April and return on 8th April in Port Elizabeth. Please check your embarkation/disembarkation dates carefully before booking this overland. Flight times and further details will be advised on board.

The drive to and from Port Elizabeth is approximately three hours, the majority of which is on smooth highway. This excursion is physically demanding and game drives are over uneven terrain. Be prepared for early morning starts, lengthy days, climatic changes and airport delays. This is an inclusive excursion programme. No refunds will be given for any unused portion. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. The contents and order of activities are subject to change by the Lodge management without prior notice. These may be due to weather conditions and/or the movement of dangerous wildlife on the Pumba Private Game Reserve.

Water Lodge is located in an unfenced reserve and wild animals may wander into the Lodge surroundings during the night. Guests must follow rangers’ instructions, and must be accompanied by a ranger when moving between buildings. 4x4 vehicles may not have seat belts fitted and standing up whilst vehicles are in motion is prohibited.

Environmental: part of the joy of this overland is the opportunity to go off the beaten track and to obtain a privileged insight into the cultural and natural environment. Please respect the cultures, traditions and ecology of the places visited with environmentally responsible behaviour.

The fare includes: transport by coach and aircraft, economy class air tickets, sightseeing, meals and accommodation as stated. Wines and spirits at the Lodge are inclusive, however premium brands and champagnes may be charged for.

The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as telephone calls, gratuities, room service, doctors fees, prescriptions, medication and travel insurance. There may be alternative activities offered from the Lodge, these are to be at guests’ own cost and are offered independently of this excursion. Guests from the USA, UK and Australia do not require a visa; all other nationalities should check visa requirements before travel.

What to pack: please remember your passport, which must have two blank pages, it is recommended that you place post-it notes on these two blank pages to prevent them being stamped during your voyage. Remember to take any medication you may require in your hand luggage. Warmer clothes for early mornings and evenings are recommended whilst protection from the sun is required during the day. Luggage limit is one soft case per person with a maximum weight of 20kg.

Malaria: The Eastern Cape is registered as Malaria free; however guests are advised to seek advice from a Travel Medicine Clinic prior to travelling.

Witness the majesty of Ayers Rock bathed in golden light; enjoy the sounds of the desert and soak up the unique ‘red centre’ atmosphere.

DAY 1 – SUNSET AT THE OLGA’S
You’ll fly from Sydney directly to the red centre of Australia, touching down in Ayers Rock. Upon arrival, board your coach for a tour of the Olga’s and the mighty Monolith. Kata Tjutu (The Olga’s) is a sacred Aboriginal ceremonial site and part of the Uluru – Kata Tjutu National Park. View the flora and fauna that thrive in this harsh environment and the imposing sight of the monoliths before transferring to the Sails in the Desert Hotel where you will have dinner.

DAY 2 – SUNRISE AT THE OLGA’S
Rise early to witness the beauty of sunrise over the famous landmark of Uluru (Ayers Rock). Its vast shape rises from the sand dunes in the early dawn light highlighting its magnificent presence. Your guide will take you to a special location to watch the sun rise over this amazing stone mass. You will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) and hear about the Mala people. Return to the resort for a well deserved late breakfast. For your convenience luncheon is served at your hotel before time at leisure in the afternoon.

In the evening you will have an experience like no other as you indulge in the "Sounds of Silence" - the quietest restaurant on earth. Transfer to a desert dune to sip sparkling wine and listen to the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo as a magnificent sun sets over Kata Tjuta. When the sun has finally set, lanterns are lit and a delicious Northern Territory gourmet barbecue is served. After dinner the lights go down revealing a star filled sky, clearer and brighter than most city dwellers will ever see. The resident Astronomer will then introduce the magnificent constellations, stars and planets that make up the skies of the Southern Hemisphere.

DAY 3 – RETURN TO MELBOURNE
After breakfast, bid farewell to the rugged outback of Australia as you transfer to the airport.
Board your flight to Melbourne, with a brief layover in Alice Springs. From Melbourne Airport you will transfer directly to Queen Mary 2 at the pier.

Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 14th December 2012. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = SYD802A, Single = SYD803A). Prices shown on your record of shore excursions are per person, not per room. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee. This tour departs Sydney on 19 March and returns in Melbourne on 21 March. Please check your embarkation/disembarkation dates carefully before booking this overland. This excursion is physically demanding. Be prepared for early morning starts and lengthy days. No refunds will be given for any unused portion.

The fare includes: transport by coach and plane, sightseeing and hotel accommodation as stated. Meals include water, tea and coffee. One glass of wine is included with evening meals, additional beverages will be charged to guests own account.

The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, liquor, doctor’s fees and any medication or prescriptions. Guests who require a visa for Australia must be in possession of a valid eVisitor or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) prior to embarking the ship.

What to pack: Please remember your passport and any medication you may require. Luggage limit is one bag per person with a maximum weight of 20kg. Guests should take closed walking shoes and a lightweight jacket/ jumper for the cool temperatures in the evening. Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen are also advised. Valuables should be left on board the ship. Please remember to carry a credit card or Australian dollars for any additional purchases.

Visit Steve Irwin’s famous Australia Zoo to view an amazing live crocodile show and to see an unusual variety of wildlife.

Your experience will begin with a visit to Australia Zoo Wildlife Hospital. A brief tour of the facilities will provide a behind the scenes insight into the work of a dedicated rescue team who collect sick, injured and orphaned koalas and other native wildlife.

Nearby to the hospital is Australia Zoo which was established by the late ‘Crocodile Hunter’, Steve Irwin and is still run by his enthusiastic family. It is one of Australia’s leading environmental organisations, committed to the preservation of Australian wildlife and their habitat.

You will have around three hours to explore the many enclosures at your own leisure. Discover the large numbers of native animals including freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, kangaroos, elephants, tigers and wombats. You will have the chance to meet the cuddly koalas, view majestic birds of prey and feed kangaroos, elephants or camels (food at your own expense).

The Zoo’s latest addition is their totally wild Africa exhibit. The open-plains are home to giraffe, zebra and rhinos. You’ll have the opportunity to watch these fascinating animals from onboard the special Africa Safari Shuttle.

There will be daily animal presentations. The highlight is the live crocodile show, where the crocodiles launch a strike from the water’s edge in the purpose built ‘Crocoseum’. A truly unforgettable day out.

Note: Please check on arrival at the Zoo for details of the crocodile show, animal talks, feeding times and presentation schedules. The tour is unguided therefore walking is at guests’ own discretion. The terrain is mostly flat pavement and there is a trolley train which runs continuously around the Zoo. Motorized scooters are available to rent for AUD$25 (payable on arrival). The Zoo is fully wheelchair accessible.

Witness the majesty of Ayers Rock bathed in golden light; enjoy the sounds of the desert and soak up the unique ‘red centre’ atmosphere.

DAY 1 – SUNSET AT THE OLGA’S
You’ll fly from Sydney directly to the red centre of Australia, touching down in Ayers Rock. Upon arrival, board your coach for a tour of the Olga’s and the mighty Monolith. Kata Tjutu (The Olga’s) is a sacred Aboriginal ceremonial site and part of the Uluru – Kata Tjutu National Park. View the flora and fauna that thrive in this harsh environment and the imposing sight of the monoliths before transferring to the Sails in the Desert Hotel where you will have dinner.

DAY 2 – SUNRISE AT THE OLGA’S
Rise early to witness the beauty of sunrise over the famous landmark of Uluru (Ayers Rock). Its vast shape rises from the sand dunes in the early dawn light highlighting its magnificent presence. Your guide will take you to a special location to watch the sun rise over this amazing stone mass. You will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) and hear about the Mala people. Return to the resort for a well deserved late breakfast. For your convenience luncheon is served at your hotel before time at leisure in the afternoon.

In the evening you will have an experience like no other as you indulge in the "Sounds of Silence" - the quietest restaurant on earth. Transfer to a desert dune to sip sparkling wine and listen to the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo as a magnificent sun sets over Kata Tjuta. When the sun has finally set, lanterns are lit and a delicious Northern Territory gourmet barbecue is served. After dinner the lights go down revealing a star filled sky, clearer and brighter than most city dwellers will ever see. The resident Astronomer will then introduce the magnificent constellations, stars and planets that make up the skies of the Southern Hemisphere.

DAY 3 – RETURN TO MELBOURNE
After breakfast, bid farewell to the rugged outback of Australia as you transfer to the airport.
Board your flight to Melbourne, with a brief layover in Alice Springs. From Melbourne Airport you will transfer directly to Queen Mary 2 at the pier.

Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 14th December 2012. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = SYD802A, Single = SYD803A). Prices shown on your record of shore excursions are per person, not per room. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee. This tour departs Sydney on 19 March and returns in Melbourne on 21 March. Please check your embarkation/disembarkation dates carefully before booking this overland. This excursion is physically demanding. Be prepared for early morning starts and lengthy days. No refunds will be given for any unused portion.

The fare includes: transport by coach and plane, sightseeing and hotel accommodation as stated. Meals include water, tea and coffee. One glass of wine is included with evening meals, additional beverages will be charged to guests own account.

The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, liquor, doctor’s fees and any medication or prescriptions. Guests who require a visa for Australia must be in possession of a valid eVisitor or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) prior to embarking the ship.

What to pack: Please remember your passport and any medication you may require. Luggage limit is one bag per person with a maximum weight of 20kg. Guests should take closed walking shoes and a lightweight jacket/ jumper for the cool temperatures in the evening. Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen are also advised. Valuables should be left on board the ship. Please remember to carry a credit card or Australian dollars for any additional purchases.

Travel through rolling mountains, market gardens and orchards of the Adelaide Hills before reaching the heritage site of Hahndorf.

Hahndorf, the oldest surviving German settlement in Australia, is steeped in history and has a romantic feel. You are free to explore the town, which is probably the best known and most interesting town in the area. A unique German-style village, it has shady, century-old chestnut and elm trees lining the main street. Take time to stroll around this historic town with its many carefully restored buildings with timber frames filled in with wattle and daub, originally dating back to the mid 1800’s. Delight in the leisurely, old-world feel of this town as you take in the many craft shops, bakeries, restaurants and boutiques.

A photograph stop will be made at Mount Lofty for a spectacular view over Adelaide (weather permitting), which at 2,100 feet offers a wonderful panoramic outlook. This excursion is a great way to see the countryside outside of Adelaide.

Note: There will be approximately 1½ hours of free time in Hahndorf. Walking is at guests’ own discretion. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are recommended.

Sample the beauty of this amazing and unique city, including a visit to the Castle of Good Hope and Signal Hill.

Enjoy an orientation tour of the Mother City with its meticulously preserved Edwardian and Victorian buildings, before proceeding to the Company Gardens, which are situated in the heart of the city. Take a leisurely walk through these scenic surroundings, passing St George’s Anglican Cathedral, the Houses of Parliament and the National Art Gallery.

The Castle of Good Hope is the oldest building in South Africa, take a tour of the Castle, including a visit to the Military Museum and the William Fehr collection. This cultural history museum contains a collection of old Cape Dutch porcelain, historic paintings and many antique pieces of furniture.

Proceed to Signal Hill, where you will have the opportunity to photograph the views, before returning to the ship via the stunning seaside residential suburbs of Camps Bay, Bantry Bay and Sea Point.

Note: This tour includes walking of approximately two hours over some cobble-stoned areas and an incline at Signal Hill.

Soak up the views on the scenic route known as the ‘Four Passes’ and visit the towns of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch.

This tour takes you towards the mountains of the Western Cape, with their spectacular peaks, fertile valleys, farms and vineyards. The route is made accessible by means of the stunningly beautiful ‘Four Passes’.

Head for Somerset West situated at the foot of the magnificent Hottentots Holland Mountains, which will be crossed via Sir Lowry’s Pass. The view from the summit embraces the whole of False Bay and the Cape Peninsula, from Table Mountain to the lighthouse at the tip of the Cape of Good Hope.

Passing Grabouw and Elgin, make your way towards the Viljoen’s Pass and Franschhoek Pass. Also known as the Elephant Path, Franschhoek Pass was used by the original settlers, who discovered that migrating wild animals had found the most practical way over the mountain. Pass the Huguenot Monument and enjoy luncheon and some free time in the beautiful town of Franschhoek.

Crossing the last of the Four Passes, Helshoogte, you will arrive in Stellenbosch, South Africa’s second oldest town. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the oak-lined streets before continuing to a wine estate, where you will be treated to a tasting of some outstanding local wines.

Note: This tour involves an hour of walking tour in Stellenbosch and a further 30 minutes’ walking in Franschhoek, including some steps. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. In order to avoid congestion, the order of sites visited may be rotated.

Experience the artistic side of Bali at the villages of Tiingan, Peliatan and Batuan with luncheon at Ubud.

Visit the village of Tiingan, which is famous for the production of Balinese musical instruments such as the Gamelan. The Gamelan orchestra features a series of gongs that represent a sound which is very typical of Balinese music, and an important part of Balinese culture.

Continue to the village of Batuan to visit the home of legendary dancer, Ni Ketut Cenik, a Balinese woman who was a living legend of Balinese dance. She sadly passed away in July 2010 and would normally greet all guests personally at her home. Instead, her son Jimat and family members will extend the same warm welcome. A local Balinese Gamelan orchestra will play their beautiful music and refreshments of coffee and tea will be served.

Being the artistic capital of the island, no visit to Bali would be complete without seeing the work of local artists at Peliatan Village. Proceed to a local restaurant in Ubud, where you will dine on delicious Balinese cuisine whilst overlooking the rice fields close by.

In Kemenuh, a visit to the Bali Budaya wood carving studio is the perfect place to find skilled carvers turning slabs of teak and ebony wood into masks, religious figures and intricate wall decorations. Before departing, take the opportunity to browse in the large gallery where you may purchase the finished products.

Note: There is approximately one hour of walking on this tour over mostly paved surfaces with some rough ground at Tiingan Village.

Discover the Northern Territory’s native wildlife up close at the fascinating Territory Wildlife Park.

The Territory Wildlife Park, set in 1,000 acres of natural bushland, is dedicated to the Northern Territory's native fauna and flora. In addition to saltwater crocodiles, water buffalo, dingoes, wallabies, pelicans and other water birds, it also has a nocturnal house, kept dark so that the late night creatures can be seen; a natural lagoon and a treetop-level rainforest walkway through the huge aviary allowing you to watch native birds from the swamps and forests at close range.

The Park has an extensive system of walking tracks and many of the exhibits are located quite closely together; you can either walk between exhibits or take the compliment shuttle which runs around the Park’s main areas.

There are daily presentations including wild discovery talks and a fascinating bird of prey display. The experienced staff are located around the Park and are happy to share their knowledge of the wildlife and the habitats in their care.

A must-see attraction of the Park is the underwater aquarium where you can experience the marine life close up. As you stroll beneath the surface in the walk-through tunnel you’ll see giant barramundi fish, stingrays and other fish swimming right over your head, the aquarium also houses a giant Saltwater Crocodile.

Note: You will have approximately three hours at the Park. The time is unguided allowing you the freedom to set your own itinerary. The shuttle train can accommodate wheelchairs and strollers. On arrival at the Park please check for details of the daily presentation schedules. Motorised scooters are available to hire for AUD$10 (payable on arrival).

Become acquainted with the many faces of Durban, including the Botanical Gardens and Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Diverse cultural influences from Asia, Africa and Europe have each contributed to Durban's development and unique character. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of this sub-tropical city from the comfort of an air-conditioned motor coach.
Follow the palm tree-lined Victoria Embankment, passing the Vasco Da Gama Clock, the Dick King Statue, the imposing Durban Club and the Yacht Club en-route, reaching Currie Hill, stopping briefly to take in the panoramic views of the City.

Continue onto the Durban Botanical Gardens to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, which house a wide variety of local flora. Drive past the Old Market Square, which represent the City Hall in Belfast and serves as Durban's municipal offices. Glimpse the Natural History Museum and Post Office before continuing past the Old Inland Revenue Building and Reserve Bank, before driving to the Moses Mabhida Stadium for a photograph stop.

Drive along the Golden Mile beachfront, where Zulu’s, resplendent in their colourful regalia, transport visitors in their colourful rickshaws. Pass by the Juma Mosque, which is reputedly the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and is famous for its massive golden dome and turrets.

Note: To fully enjoy this tour, some walking is required at the Botanical Gardens. Please take care of personal belongings at all times in Durban. The sequence of highlights may vary to avoid congestion. Flat, comfortable walking shoes and sun hats are strongly recommended.

Discover the famous Cape Winelands, home to some of the world’s finest wines, and visit the charming town of Stellenbosch.

Marvel at the scenery on this tour as you pass whitewashed homesteads, rolling green hills with wild flowers and fertile valleys, alive with the sounds of surging streams. Heading east towards the famous Cape Winelands, your first stop is the town of Paarl. Surrounded by fruit and wine farms in the Berg River Valley, it lies beneath the imposing granite rocks of Paarl Mountain.

After visiting the Taal Monument, the only monument ever built to immortalise a language (Afrikaans), enjoy a guided tour of a wine cellar, followed by a formal wine tasting in the Paarl region.

From here, head to the lush Franschhoek Valley, and the village of Franschhoek (French Corner) for a brief stop at the Huguenot Monument, commemorating the arrival of the Huguenots in South Africa.

A second wine tasting will be conducted prior to a picnic luncheon.

Stellenbosch, ‘Town of Oaks’, includes examples of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian styles, which can be appreciated during an orientation tour.

Note. Guests are advised that there are steps to negotiate throughout the tour and that there will be approximately two hours’ total walking. Comfortable walking shoes and a sun hat are recommended.

Rising over 12,000 feet – Mount Teide is one of the most famous sights in all of the Canary Islands.

Your tour begins with a drive towards the old colonial capital of La Laguna, situated in the Aguirre Valley amidst beautiful surroundings. From La Laguna, your route turns along the base of the mountain range, through the Esperanza pine forests and foothills to the Teide National Park. A short stop will be made at El Portillo Restaurant for refreshments before heading into the heart of the Park.

Declared a national park in 1954, the Cañadas del Teide National Park includes an enormous volcanic crater, which has been dormant since 1909 and is over 29 miles in circumference. From the crater, rising 12,300 feet, is Mount Teide - the highest mountain in all of Spanish territory. Take in the views of this impressive peak and the surrounding arid landscape in the crater, which is often said to resemble the set of a western movie.
Enjoy some free time at the Parador hotel centre before reboarding the coach for your return journey. En route to the ship several stops will be made for photographs, giving you the opportunity to appreciate the breathtaking scenery.

Note: This excursion will travel up some mountain roads to approximately seven thousand feet above sea level. Warm clothing is recommended. It is forbidden to remove any stones or plants from the National Park. The cable car at Mount Teide is NOT included. Walking is mainly flat over gravel and paved areas. Comfortable, flat, walking shoes are recommended.

Enjoy an evening opera performance at the world famous Sydney Opera House.

You’ll be transferred by coach to the Sydney Opera House with its distinctive roofline that has made it one of the most noteworthy buildings in the world. Make your way to your ‘A’ reserved seats for an unforgettable experience as part of an audience at this famous performing arts centre.

Note: The name of the opera performance will be confirmed by the Opera House on 30th November 2012 - please check online or contact reservations after this time for more details. Dress code is semi-formal. Photography is prohibited during the performance. The Opera House has over 200 steps and passengers must walk 110 yards to reach the Opera House. Pre-booking is highly recommended as bookings will close on 4th January 2013. Any bookings received after this time will be waitlisted until further capacity can be obtained. Opera tickets are non-refundable after 4th January 2013.

Enjoy the enchanting Fitzroy Gardens laid out in the shape of the Union Jack, then see unparalleled views from Eureka Skydeck 88.

Travel into the heart of Melbourne city to the Fitzroy Gardens. Planted in 1860 these magnificent gardens are laid out in the shape of the Union Jack. There will be a guided tour of the gardens and Cook’s Cottage which is hidden away amongst the trees. Cook’s Cottage is the family home of Captain James Cook, the English navigator who explored the southern hemisphere and first ‘discovered’ the east coast of Australia. The two-storey brick cottage and its adjoining stable were shipped over piece by piece from its original location in the north of England.

Continuing to the city centre, you will pass many magnificent buildings, including The Treasury, Parliament House, the Windsor Hotel, the Princess Theatre and the marvellous Gothic buildings on Collins Street. There will be a photograph stop at the Shrine of Remembrance, one of the most stunning and recognisable landmarks of Melbourne.

See the city from another level at Melbourne’s tallest attraction, Eureka Skydeck 88. This magnificent 92-storey tower is one of the tallest apartment buildings in the world. The fastest lifts in the southern hemisphere will take you from the ground to Level 88 in a mere 40 seconds. From the Skydeck you will have unparalleled 360 degree views of the city through floor to ceiling glass windows.

Note: There are approximately 50 steps to negotiate to walk up to the Shrine, however this is optional. The guided tour is conducted at a gentle pace and lasts approximately one hour. Comfortable, flat, enclosed shoes and bottled water are recommended.