Tour The Big Walkabout (Sailing, 25 Days)

Meals

18 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 7 Dinners

Hygieneprotocol

All guests travelling with Contiki through December 31, 2022 are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, which may include a booster shot to keep the vaccination status current and valid, depending on the travel destination. Children not eligible for vaccination and/or booster at the time of travel must provide a verifiable and negative Covid-19 test result, taken within 72 hours prior to the start of the tour (taking time zones into consideration) for all tours departing until December 31, 2022. For guests travelling with Contiki from 1 January 2023, Covid-19 vaccinations and boosters are highly recommended, but no longer required. Please note that regardless of time of travel guests will need to comply with specific vaccine and/or booster requirements imposed by airlines and/or authorities in the destination visited, as well as requirements for accessing restaurants and venues, which may be more restrictive than above. It is guests’ responsibility to ensure that they comply at all times with these requirements. No refunds will be given if guests are unable to undertake some or all of their vacation due to their failure to comply with these requirements.

Accommodation

12 nights in Hostels, 5 nights in Hotels, 3 nights in Lodge, 2 nights in Eco-camp, 2 nights in Converted Racing Yacht

Guide

Expert Trip Manager + Local Guides + Captain & Crew

Others

All sightseeing and activities stated as included.

Flights

Internal flight included. *** All other flights are not included.

Transport

Coach, Train, Converted Racing Yacht

Not included:

Others

Other activities and services are not included.

Insurance

Travel insurance is not included.

Optional

See Sydney’s skyline at its best as you take the climb of your life up the famous Harbour Bridge A$ 250.00 Australian Cheese and Wine Tasting A$ 40.00 Sydney Harbour Sunset Cruise A$25.00 Sydney Harbour Jet Boat Ride A$ 60.00 Sydney Highlights Bike Tour A$ 70.00 Taronga Zoo Entry A$47.00 Taste craft beer at the Stone and Wood Brewery in Byron Bay A$ 40.00 Byron Bay Lighthouse at Sunrise Cape Byron Sea Kayaking A$60.00 Find your zen with morning yoga on the golden sands of Byron Bay Noosa Everglades Canoe Trip A$55.00 Airlie Beach Skydive $209.00 Reef and Island Scenic Flight $249.00 Scuba Diving (in addition to Outer Barrier Reef Cruise) from A$65 (certified dive); from A$100 (introductory dive) Great Barrier Reef Cruise A$200 Jungle Swing or Bungy Jump A$95/ A$135 Cairns Skydive From A$209 One way Skyrail Experience & One Way Kuranda Scenic Railway A$115 Return Skyrail Experience From A$105 Half Day White Water Rafting Barron River A$ 145.00 Visit the inspirational Royal Flying Doctors in Darwin A$25.00 See local flora and fauna on a scenic flight in Kakadu National Park A$145.00 Katherine Gorge Cruise Glide across Darwin Harbour on a sunset cruise $60.00 Visit the Field of Lights, a spectacular art installation of 50,000 lights near Uluru A$42 See a different side of Uluru on a Segway tour A$170 Take a Dot-painting workshop with a local Aboriginal Anangu artist & create your own art piece A$70 Soar over the sacred sites of Uluru & Kata Tjuta on a scenic flight From A$ 155 Take a peaceful camel ride over the rich red sand dunes A$ 127.00

Start planning your experience

Day 1 Day 1: Start Sydney
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Start Sydney

Welcome to Sydney! Meet up with your brand new travel family and hit the road and head on a day trip to one of Australia’s finest: the majestic Blue Mountains (which aren’t actually blue, but are still beautiful all the same). Out here in the great Aussie Outdoors we’ll be learning about the legends behind the famous Three Sisters rock formation as well as exploring the Jamison Ridge area. We’ll head back to Sydney and the evening is yours to make the most of.
Day 2 Day 2: Sydney
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Sydney

This morning set out to explore this sun-drenched, cosmopolitan and eternally cool city. Your Trip Manager will give you the low down on all of Sydney’s best bits as you get a tour of the highlights. Check out the Opera House, catch the ferry to Watsons Bay to experience the iconic skyline from a different perspective, then venture over to Bondi Beach where you can spend the afternoon lazing about in the sunshine. If you’ve got a head for heights, an optional Sydney Harbour Bridge climb is the best way to see that iconic harbour.
Day 3 Day 3: Sydney
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Sydney

With a full free day to choose your own adventure, we have some fab Free Time Add-Ons for you to pick from. Water-lovers can opt for a jetboat across the Sydney Harbour or those who prefer the land, can jump on a bike for a tour of Sydney’s best bits.
Day 4 Day 4: Sydney To Byron Bay
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Sydney To Byron Bay

With Sydney satisfaction levels at a high this morning we jump on a plane to Byron Bay where all your hippie dreams can come to life. Landing in Byron Bay, we’ll drop off our bags at the accommodation and start as we mean to go on, heading straight to the beach. Here in Byron we’ll unleash our secret talent for surfing with an included lesson. You’ll be a pro in no time!
Day 5 Day 5: Byron Bay
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Byron Bay

We’ll continue the surf vibes today with the option to kickstart our morning with sunrise at Australia’s most easterly point. Then you have the rest of the day free to explore like a local. With the afternoon stretched out ahead of you, there’s kayaking, relaxing on the beach and whale watching (seasonal) all on offer - your time here will be nothing short of magic.
Day 6 Day 6: Byron Bay To Noosa Everglades Via Stokers Siding
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6: Byron Bay To Noosa Everglades Via Stokers Siding

It’s time to wave goodbye to Byron and head up the coast to Noosa Everglades. But first, why not opt for early morning yoga on the beach as you watch the golden sun stretch over the famous bay? Relaxed from our morning on the beach, we’ll head to our next destination, the Noosa Everglades. Here we’ll unpack at our Special Stay Eco Lodge home for the next two nights and relax with a group dinner in the bistro & bar area, surrounded by the chatter and rustling of local birds and kangaroos.
Day 7 Day 7: Noosa Everglades - Fraser Island Day Trip
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 7: Noosa Everglades - Fraser Island Day Trip

Wake up to the sound of birds chirping at our Eco Camp this morning (you might even spot a kangaroo) and grab a quick brekkie before heading out for a day on K’Gari (Fraser Island). Your spirits will be at an all-time high after this day full of sand dunes, scenic lakes and dense rainforests. We’ll cruise along the world’s longest sand highway before you appease your hunger with a tasty lunch. It’s back to the Eco Camp this evening for our final night here. You have free time to tuck into some food at the bistro, sample the offerings at the CootharaBAR boutique brewery, or just relax and enjoy the lush surroundings of this beautiful protected National Park.
Day 8 Day 8: Noosa Everglades To Airlie Beach
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8: Noosa Everglades To Airlie Beach

What better way to say goodbye to The Glades than with an optional Canoeing Excursion on one of only two Everglades in the world? Afterwards we’re on our way to find coastal nirvana at the pristine beaches of the Whitsundays. We’ll hop on a plane for a flight to Airlie Beach. Landing in Airlie Beach, you’ll notice everything starting to look a bit more tropical. Hello Whitsundays! This afternoon is yours for the taking. Head out and enjoy the endless cafes, bars and ocean vistas this backpacker hub has to offer.
Day 9 Day 9: Airlie Beach To The Whitsundays
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 9: Airlie Beach To The Whitsundays

This morning we’ll transfer to the marina and board a converted racing yacht - our home for the next 2 nights - ready to set sail over crystal clear waters. With 74 perfect islands at your fingertips, an open sea calling your name, today you’ll get to explore one of the worlds most lusted-after holiday destinations with a day trip to the spotless Whitehaven Beach, including snorkelling. A freshly prepared lunch and dinner are waiting for you back on the yacht. This is as close to heaven as you can find on planet earth.
Day 10 Day 10: The Whitsundays
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: The Whitsundays

Is there anywhere in the world more beautiful than the Whitsundays? We think not. We’ll have more wonders to enjoy today as we spend the day cruising through the islands, enjoying freshly prepared meals on board, with endless opportunities to snorkel, swim and soak up those rays.
Day 11 Day 11: Whitsundays To Magnetic Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11: Whitsundays To Magnetic Island

Waking up on board the yacht this morning, we’ll make our way to the shore. With our sights set on another beautiful island destination we’ll board a train, heading for Townsville. After soaking up some East Coast scenery on our train journey, we’ll hop on a ferry headed towards the spellbinding Magnetic Island. Magnetic Island is an apt name for this captivating isle, with its coastal walking trails and gum trees teeming with lazy koala bears. We’ll have plenty of time to explore, try some water sports in the bright turquoise waters or meet some of the local marsupials. But first things first, we’ll enjoy a drink (our treat) and watch the sunset over the bay. Blissful or what?
Day 12 Day 12: Magnetic Island
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 12: Magnetic Island

We have a whole day on this paradise island - lucky us! We’ll waste no time meeting the locals, with a chance to eat an unlimited chef-cooked breakfast with some Koalas at the Bungalow Bay Koala Village. Then we can check out some of the walking trails - such as the Forts Walk which offers up stunning views of the Palm Island Group as well as WWII fortifications, and the chance to see more koalas in the wild- or enjoy some free time at Horseshoe bay, taking a dip on the azure waters and relaxing on the beach. See Magnetic Island’s resident Rock Wallabies at dusk before a free evening, where we can watch the sunset and check out some of the local bars.
Day 13 Day 13: Magnetic Island To Cairns
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Magnetic Island To Cairns

After breakfast this morning we’ll say farewell to our koala friends and depart Magnetic Island on a ferry. But we’ll never forget its singular beauty. Back in Townsville we won’t hang around too long, as we’re hopping on a train headed to Cairns, where we’ll arrive late afternoon after a gloriously scenic journey along Australia’s East Coast. Welcome to the city where rainforests meet reefs. We’ll enjoy one of the most memorable meals you’ve ever experienced today with our interactive Bush Food MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® tutorial and dinner. An experienced chef will guide us through a history of Bush Food as you sample a variety of native spices and fruits, explaining their tastes, origins, and traditional uses before we enjoy our dinner, which features native game. It’s an incredible cultural feast, and the perfect way to start our adventure in Cairns.
Day 14 Day 14: Cairns
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Cairns

Rise and shine, our entire day today is an unforgettable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience, packed with history, heritage and natural beauty, as we enjoy a spectacular a day trip to the oldest tropical rainforest in the world: Daintree. With its ancient ferns and vibrant canopies, this place will take our breath away. There’s a reason David Attenborough called it ’the most extraordinary place on earth.’ As well as admiring the lush rainforest, we’ll also meet the local Kuku Yalanji people and learn about their rich Aboriginal culture and history. We’ll get the chance to view a smoking ceremony and take an art class with an Aboriginal artist. We’ll also learn about ancient Dreamtime stories, local history and how these are shared through art. Then, we’ll get to create our own unique souvenir to take home in the form of a canvas that tells our own stories. What a day; and we’re not done yet.
Day 15 Day 15: Cairns
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Cairns

Today you’ll have the option to board a catamaran out to the reef to snorkel or dive in the crystal waters and gaze at the colourful coral and even more vibrant marine life. Back on board, the expert marine crew will tell us all there is to know about this stunning, but vulnerable, natural miracle.
Day 16 Day 16: Cairns
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Cairns

Today we have the chance to escape our comfort zones and try some of the adventurous activities that Cairns is famous for - think bungy jumping, skydiving and whitewater rafting. Or, sign up for a day trip on the scenic cable car, Skyrail. Here you can gain a truly unique perspective of Australia’s World Heritage listed tropical rainforest, gliding above the canopy before descending to the forest floor to continue your guided explorational journey in the tropical hippie paradise of Kuranda. Known for its appreciation of sustainable living and alternate therapies, Kuranda is a unique village in a world of commercialism. Take the famous Kuranda Railway back to Cairns for a relaxing end to your day.
Day 17 Day 17: Cairns To Darwin
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17: Cairns To Darwin

Flying out of Cairns this morning, we’ll swap the beaches of Queensland for the tropical capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin. Touching down in Darwin, we’ll waste no time getting into it as we head out for an optional visit to the Royal Flying Doctors Service. Learn about the history & the activities of the RFDS’s pilots, engineers, doctors & nurses, & the experiences of the patients that were carried & cared for each day. See, experience & learn through the wonder of technology as this facility brings history to life. Then we’ll regroup at Cullen Bay to watch the spellbinding sunset, before a free evening to check out the city’s cosmopolitan nightlife.
Day 18 Day 18: Darwin To Kakadu National Park
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 18: Darwin To Kakadu National Park

After an included breakfast at the hotel this morning, we’ll take a city tour on the coach and head to Kakadu National Park. It’s time to get to grips with the breathtaking landscapes of Kakadu National Park. We’ll kick things off by meeting some local Indigenous people at their business, Pudakul. We’ll be taken on an immersive cultural tour where we’ll have the chance to learn and understand the local customs and traditions of the Aboriginal people of the region. It’s an experience not to be missed. Fully immersed in these timeless lands we’ll take a hike up to Ubirr lookout, to catch a stunning sunset over the Nadab floodplain before enjoying a free evening to chill out at our accommodation.
Day 19 Day 19: Kakadu National Park
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 19: Kakadu National Park

Cameras at the ready! We have all day today to explore the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding National Park. You’ll have the option to see the unique terrain of the Northern Territory from the sky, gliding over the strikingly different landscapes on a scenic flight. You can then opt into a Sunset Yellow Waters cruise this evening, while learning why this region is so important to the local Aboriginal people.
Day 20 Day 20: Kakadu National Park To Katherine Gorge
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 20: Kakadu National Park To Katherine Gorge

More natural beauty in store today, as we start with a visit to Edith Falls before we head to the otherworldly Katherine Gorge. Welcome to the spectacular sandstone landscapes of Katherine Gorge. We’ll have the opportunity to take a cruise and explore the world famous National Park, spotting waterfalls, ancient aboriginal rock art and of course the incredible gorge itself.
Day 21 Day 21: Katherine Gorge To Darwin
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 21: Katherine Gorge To Darwin

Our time in Katherine comes to an end today, but the departure is easier knowing we’re headed for another natural wonder... Arriving in Litchfield National Park, we’ll check out the enormous termite mounds and famous Florence Falls, two waterfalls pouring over a wide plateau into into deep, picture-perfect water holes. Grab your swimmers to take a heavenly dip in the crystal clear waters. Back in Darwin we’ll settle in for the night, ready to continue our adventures further south tomorrow.
Day 22 Day 22: Darwin To Uluru
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 22: Darwin To Uluru

Flying out of Darwin, we have Alice Springs and the majestic Uluru in our sights. Touching down in red-earthed Alice Springs, we’ll jump on board a private coach bound for Uluru. Welcome to Uluru! Here we’ll settle into our lodge, ready for a few days of exploring this jaw-dropping destination. Before your head hits the pillow, you’ll have the chance to visit the magical Field of Lights.
Day 23 Day 23: Uluru
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 23: Uluru

After a comfy night’s sleep it’s time to get out and about and explore the majesty of Uluru. And what better way to start the day than witnessing the rock bathed in the golden glow of an Australian sunrise? A sacred site for the local indigenous tribe, this imposing rock is actually a staggering 700 million years old. We’ll then get right into the heart of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park with a hike to the Walpa Gorge and Valley of the Winds, where boulders bigger than skyscrapers dominate the landscape. This afternoon you’ll have a chance to try out your skills by taking an optional Segway tour. You could also take part in a dot painting workshop.
Day 24 Day 24: Uluru
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 24: Uluru

Grab your sneakers, camera and your sense of adventure - it’s time for a day trip! Our first stop is an included Big BBQ Brekkie at Kings Creek Station, then we’re ready to go. Your guided hike around the imposing King’s Canyon awaits. Wonder at the lunar-like landscape as you hike through the canyon and take respite from the sun in the shady space at the bottom of the climb, The Garden of Eden. It’s as idyllic and mythical as it sounds and is home to its own unique ecosystem in this barren landscape. Finish the day off with a glass of bubbles in hand and the sunset casting a glow over the Outback’s most picturesque backdrop, there’s no better way to spend your final evening in Uluru.
Day 25 Day 25: Uluru
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 25: Uluru

This morning we’ll have the chance to check out the landscape from the clouds with a scenic flight or a Skydive over the outback before it’s time to say our sad farewells to our Contiki family. Australia, it’s been real. We may shed a tear, but we’ll never forget what we’ve experienced together in this spectacular land. And just remember, it’s not goodbye, just see you soon.

+22

25 days tour

The Big Walkabout (Sailing, 25 Days)

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip The Big Walkabout (Sailing, 25 Days)

Day 1: Start Sydney

Day 2: Sydney

Day 3: Sydney

Day 4: Sydney To Byron Bay

Day 5: Byron Bay

Day 6: Byron Bay To Noosa Everglades Via Stokers Siding

Day 7: Noosa Everglades - Fraser Island Day Trip

Day 8: Noosa Everglades To Airlie Beach

Day 9: Airlie Beach To The Whitsundays

Day 10: The Whitsundays

Day 11: Whitsundays To Magnetic Island

Day 12: Magnetic Island

Day 13: Magnetic Island To Cairns

Day 14: Cairns

Day 15: Cairns

Day 16: Cairns

Day 17: Cairns To Darwin

Day 18: Darwin To Kakadu National Park

Day 19: Kakadu National Park

Day 20: Kakadu National Park To Katherine Gorge

Day 21: Katherine Gorge To Darwin

Day 22: Darwin To Uluru

Day 23: Uluru

Day 24: Uluru

Day 25: Uluru

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