Silversea Luxury Cruises To TOWNSVILLE

Discover the city's highlights including a stunning photo stop at Castle Hill and journey to Townsville's popular Reef HQ. As the National Reef Education Centre for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, Reef HQ Aquarium will open your eyes to an amazing world filled with thousands of charismatic marine creatures.

Castle Hill

Experience some of the city's highlights including a breath-taking photo stop atop Castle Hill. Rising nearly 1,000 feet above the city, this massive pink granite monolith features 360-degree views of Townsville, the surrounding countryside and Magnetic Island in the distance. The Hill's vantage point was used by visiting American soldiers during WWII; an observation bunker sits on one corner of the hill which also boasts public amenities.

Reef HQ

Continue onto Townsville's popular Reef HQ, where you will step into a world of exotic undersea wonders with a visit to the largest living coral reef aquarium of its kind in the world. Enjoy a fascinating guided tour of this magnificent complex that includes a walk through an acrylic tunnel offering spectacular fish-eye views of the reef. Marvel at the 130 species of coral and 120 species of vibrantly-coloured tropical fish as well as giant clams, sea cucumbers, sea stars and other marine creatures that make their home in this delicate eco-system. The smaller tanks and exhibits feature extensive displays on the history and life of Australia's Great Barrier Reef, truly one of the natural wonders of the world. During the visit to Reef HQ there will be the opportunity to discover the Turtle Hospital and have some free time. Your tour will conclude returning you back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 2 hours at Reef HQ. This tour is not recommended for those guests who utilise a wheelchair. Comfortable clothing and walking shoes as well as sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are recommended. Space is extremely limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. The order of sites visited may vary.

Visit the award-winning Museum of Tropical Queensland that is showcasing the diverse region of North Queensland, from World Heritage listed rainforest and reefs to the story of the shipwrecked HMS Pandora, the ship sent to capture the Bounty mutineers. The museum researches and interprets the cultural and natural heritage of the region.

Panoramic Sightseeing Drive & Museum of Tropical Queensland

Depart the pier and drive past Townsville sights and learn about this tropical city as you make your way to the Museum of Tropical Queensland. Discover North Queensland from a different perspective on a guided tour of the Museum's galleries and exhibitions, led by a local passionate expert. You may also meet museum curators, collection managers, taxidermists and researchers or learn about the specialist work undertaken at the museum by local volunteers and staff.

Find out how corals and reef creatures use colour to communicate on the Great Barrier Reef, learn about traditional Indigenous rainforest people and be swept away by the tragedy of the HMS Pandora's adventurous tale. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in a hands-on interactive activity where they'll learn how to fire cannon like they did on sailing ships in the 1700s.

Following your exploration tea and coffee will be available before returning to the pier.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking and standing during 90-minute guided tour of the museum. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with closed-toe walking shoes. We recommend sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses as well. Most exhibits do have wheelchair access; however, guests must be able to embark and disembark the coach via steps.

Visit Magnetic Island accompanied by local rangers who will share their knowledge and introduce you to the island's history, colorful characters and get you up close and personal with crocodiles, wombats and have the opportunity to hold a Koala.

Cleveland Bay

Depart the pier for a brief transfer to the Fast Cat Terminal to embark the ferry across the blue waters of Cleveland Bay to visit Magnetic Island. There you will discover the geology, history and wildlife of the area with your guide from Bungalow Bay Koala Village.

Magnetic Island

The stunning landscapes of this World Heritage listed island make this natural destination truly distinctive and attractive to the eco-conscious traveler. The rocky granite headlands endemic to the area provide a basis to an array of eco-systems that merge with the 23 bays and beaches surrounding its coastline. Although Captain Cook never even landed on Magnetic Island while sailing past on June 7th, 1770, it was the famous incident, recorded in his journal, where the ship's magnetic compass 'would not travis well when near it' that gave the island its name. He then named it 'Magnetical Island or Headland' as he wasn't even sure if it was an island or a peninsula.

Bungalow Bay Koala Village

Bungalow Bay's ranger will showcase the beauty and highlights of the island and help you to explore a hands-on experience with crocodiles, snakes, birds and our resident Koala population within the Koala Village. Take a break at the end of your visit and have the opportunity to enjoy tea at the Koala Village.

Embark the fast cat ferry for the 30 minute return ride, returning to the dock for the short transfer to the ship.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, approximately 60 minutes of leisurely walking on mostly gravel and hard-packed dirt pathways. Comfortable clothing and walking shoes as well as sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are recommended. Space is extremely limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. The ferry transfer is a public scheduled ferry transfer / also tour duration may alter to fit in with the public scheduled ferry time.

Experience the stunning natural splendour of Magnetic Island from high above during this exhilarating flight-seeing excursion.

Townsville, Helicopter-Flight-Seeing Tour, Central Business District, The Strand, Rock Pool

Depart the pier for the short drive to the helipad, and your awaiting helicopter. Upon arrival, receive your safety and flight instructions, then begin your panoramic, approximately 30-minute helicopter flight-seeing adventure. After lift-off, fly over Townsville, the Central Business District and down along The Strand. At the rock pool, your helicopter takes a right turn towards Magnetic Island.

Magnetic Island, Beaches, Bays, Many Peaks Range

Idyllic Magnetic Island is home to coral reefs and a national park full of wildlife. Begin your lap around the island with a splendid view of the shipwrecked City of Adelaide and other sites that are only visible from the air. Your counter-clockwise route provides great views of all of the island's major bays and beaches, as well as hidden areas you would hardly know existed if not for this flight. At West Point, turn back toward the mainland and Many Peaks Range prior to landing back at the helipad. Upon arrival, de-board your helicopter, re-board your coach and commence the short drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking, with three-four steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and board/de-board the helicopter. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, provided they can get on/off the coach and board/de-board the helicopter without assistance. This tour is not suitable for guests with a fear of heights, guests prone to airsickness and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please be aware that weight restrictions may apply and kindly submit your weight information to the Shore Concierge Team onboard at least 72 hours prior to flight. Due to weight and balance limitations, as well as individual safety and comfort, seating is assigned at the pilot's discretion. A window seat cannot be guaranteed. The total flight time is approximately 30 minutes; flight times can vary based on flight conditions. The tour sequence may vary. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. Cancellation deadline for this tour is 72 hours prior to the port of call and the tour is non-refundable after this time.

Learn about a variety of Australia's native animals during this popular half-day outing. In addition, a short tour of the city will include many of Townsville's landmark sights such as the Strand Beachfront Promenade, museum, casino and a drive along historic Flinders Street.

Billabong Sanctuary

Departing the pier, begin with a 10-mile (16-km) drive south of Townsville. Nestled in the hills of the Mutatunga Range and set among rainforest, wetlands and eucalyptus trees, the Billabong Sanctuary provides an ideal environment for wildlife and is a popular spot for local families. Upon arrival, you are greeted by the park ranger who will provide a brief overview. Strolling along the pathways, you may see kookaburras, dingos, Australian black swans, cassowary, cockatoos, birds of prey and other native animals. Take the opportunity to hand feed the free roaming kangaroos and see Australia's menacing crocodiles have a meal.

Your time in the park is unstructured. A close-up encounter with the cuddly koalas and unusual wombats will make for great souvenir photo. Explore different habitats at your own pace, stop for a drink, and venture into the on-site souvenir shop if you wish, before regrouping to board the coach.

Your tour concludes with the drive back to Townsville and some additional sightseeing en route to the port.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking, approximately 800 yards (731 metres) on packed-earth paths and sloping grounds. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with closed-toe walking shoes. We recommend sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses as well. Most exhibits do have wheelchair access; however, guests must be able to embark and disembark the coach via steps. Space is extremely limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. The order of sites visited may vary.

Discover Townsville's interesting history while enjoying some of the city's great gardens and lookouts.

Castle Hill Lookout & the Strand Walk

Travel up to the top of Castle Hill for one of the most spectacular views on the East coast of Australia. It's a must do activity when visiting Townsville! Learn the early history of Townsville and the surrounding region from your friendly local guide. You will find out about the Traditional Indigenous land owners as you drive pass Kissing Point and then continue onto the Strand, Townsville's thriving beach foreshore. Take a stroll at this scenic spot and enjoy the ocean breeze and picturesque views across to Magnetic Island.

The Palmetum Botanical Garden

Continue to The Palmetum, a botanical garden featuring the palm family of plants. Approximately 60 different species of palms are native to Australia and most are represented here in the Palmetum. This tropical collection contains in total around 300 species, many rare and threatened in their natural habitats. Immerse yourself into this unique tropical experience as you wander through the gardens. Travel on passing Townsville Hospital, James Cook University. Take a short stroll along the River way enjoying the Queensland's tropical breeze before returning to the pier.

From the spectacular turquoise blue waters of Australia's eastern coastline to the desert sands of the Red Centre, this Mid Voyage experience has it all including mystical Uluru and the natural splendour, flora and fauna of the Top End. With most of your time spent in the Northern Territory, you will explore one of the most captivating and diverse regions in the entire nation. Experience the stunning natural beauty, geography and wildlife by land, water and air during this unforgettable, five-night overland adventure. Begin with a transfer to the nearby Sealink Ferry Terminal for the ferry-ride to Magnetic Island. Upon arrival, embark a luxury yacht and set sail for a picturesque and relaxing journey around the island. After returning to the mainland via ferry, take a sightseeing drive through Townsville en route to the airport for your scheduled flight to Cairns. Tonight, enjoy an exclusive, private dinner whilst surrounded by fish and sharks at the Cairns Aquarium. Following an overnight stay and breakfast at the Riley by Crystalbrook, check-out and transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Ayers Rock (Uluru), an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, transfer to Longitude 131°, located at the gateway to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. In the late-afternoon, depart for an Uluru sunset-viewing, visit the magnificent 'Field of Light', then proceed for a starlit dinner in the dunes at Table 131°. Following an overnight stay and breakfast, drive to Kata Tjuta and marvel at its 36 majestic domes. Next, take a guided walking trek through the Walpa Gorge, then visit the Cultural Centre to browse interactive displays about Uluru and Kata Tjuta. In the late-afternoon, visit Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, take an easy Mala Walk and stop by the Kantju Gorge for sunset-viewing with sparkling wine and canapés. After dinner and an overnight stay at Longitude 131°, a sunrise visit is made to Uluru for a guided walking tour, with stops to view the Mutitjulu Waterhole and cave paintings. This afternoon, you may choose from one of two activities; an indigenous cultural tour, or a camel-ride through the central Australian desert. Following dinner, an overnight stay and breakfast at Longitude 131°, transfer to the airport for your scheduled flight to Darwin via Alice Springs. Upon arrival, proceed for lunch at a local restaurant, then transfer to the Adelaide River for a thrilling, unforgettable 'Jumping Crocodile Cruise'. These Northern Territory predators are among Australia's deadliest reptiles, and amaze and surprise visitors with their size and agility. Following your cruise, re-board your coach and transfer to the Darwin Hilton for check-in, dinner and an overnight stay. The next morning, take a scenic and exhilarating helicopter flight-seeing tour over Litchfield National Park, and pass over waterfalls, wildlife, bird species, crocodiles, and more. At the conclusion of your flight-seeing excursion, your Mid-Voyage Land Adventure concludes on Day Six with a transfer to the port of Darwin. Upon arrival at the pier, embark the ship.

05MIDTSV-A The Ultimate Ayers Rock Discovery

Duration: 6 Days/5 Nights

Departs from: Townsville

Re-join ship: Darwin

Reserve by: At least 90 days prior to sailing

IMPORTANT NOTE

This Silver Shore Mid-Land Adventure requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than the 10th December 2019. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90 - 0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.

Payment in full is due at time of final payment. Bookings made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea.

All Land Adventure fares are subject to change, and not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable, and non-refundable, within 120 days of sailing. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. All Land Adventures are owned by independent contractors, and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Land Adventures may be modified by the operators at their sole discretion.

VISA INFORMATION:

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for Australia. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.

LOCAL CURRENCY:

The local currency is Australian Dollar; local ATMs are available in some locations visited.

Experience the stunning natural beauty, geography and wildlife of Australia's Queensland and the Northern Territory by land, water and air during this unforgettable, five-night overland adventure from Australia's East Coast to Uluru and finishing at the Top End.

DAY ONE - Sunday, April 5, 2020 - Townsville/Cairns

Transfer to the nearby Sealink Ferry Terminal for the ferry-transfer

After disembarking the ship, meet your guide and transfer to the nearby Sealink Ferry Terminal for the scenic, approximately 30-minute ferry-ride to Magnetic Island.

Embark a luxury sailing yacht for a picturesque ride around Magnetic Island

Upon arrival, you are greeted by the skipper of your luxury, approximately 52-foot (about 16-metre) sailing yacht, the Pilgrim, before embarking on a picturesque and relaxing, approximately three-hour sailing journey around Magnetic Island and Nelly Bay. Along the way, visit secluded beaches, enjoy platters of gourmet local produce, and sip on Australian organic local wine, local beer or soft drinks.

Return to the mainland via ferry for a sightseeing drive through Townsville en route to the airport

Following your sailing journey, embark the ferry for the transfer back to the mainland. Upon arrival, board your coach for a short sightseeing tour of Townsville en route to the airport, and a scheduled, approximately 50-minute flight from Townsville to Cairns. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in and some free time to freshen-up before dinner.

Exclusive, private dinner whilst surrounded by fish and sharks at the Cairns Aquarium

This evening, meet your guide for the stroll to the nearby Cairns Aquarium. Upon arrival, proceed for an exclusive, private dinner served whilst surrounded by the fish and sharks in the 70,000-liter tank located in the building. After dinner, transfer back to the hotel.

Overnight accommodations in an ROH Room at the Riley by Crystalbrook - Cairns

DAY TWO - Monday, April 6, 2020 - Cairns/Ayers Rock (Uluru)

Breakfast, a morning at leisure, an airport transfer and a scheduled flight to Ayers Rock (Uluru)

After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, meet your guide and transfer to Cairns Airport for your scheduled, approximately three-hour flight to Ayers Rock (Uluru), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transferred to Longitude 131°.

Longitude 131°

Upon arriving at Longitude 131°, you will receive a warm welcome to this amazing location. Longitude 131° offers a unique opportunity to experience of Australia's spiritual heartland whilst exploring the living and cultural landscapes of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Explore the red sands of the dessert as you get your first view of Uluru. Lunch will be at your leisure before settling in to your luxurious, climate-controlled tent, you are treated to magnificent views as the light shifts and changes over Uluru. The luxury tents are elevated atop rust-red dunes and complement the pristine natural environment while providing a private place to rest, relax and refresh. In the crisp, organic, white linen of a king-sized bed, find the serene, silent sleep of the desert.

Uluru Sunset-viewing

In the late-afternoon, meet your guide and head out to see the famous Uluru sunset. Capture the changing lights reflected over Uluru's many faces as the sun slips down below the horizon, a chilled glass of sparkling wine and canapés in hand. Following this essential outback experience, experience Bruce Munro's internationally acclaimed art phenomenon, Field of Light.

Field of Light

Created from 50,000 bud-like stems and crowned with radiant, frosted-glass spheres, this installation blooms and appears to sway as darkness descends over Australia's spiritual heartland. Arrive at dusk and meander around the field, then re-board your custom touring vehicle before enjoying the cool night skies at Table 131°.

Table 131°

Dine out and discover the wonders of the night sky at an exclusive venue among the dunes (weather-permitting). Arrive to the mesmerising sounds of an ancient culture, and feast on a four-course meal complemented by the finest Australian wines. Later, Longitude's resident astronomer regales the gathering with tales of the southerly constellations. At the conclusion of your visit, transfer back to Longitude 131°.

Overnight accommodations in a Luxury Tent at Longitude 131° - Ayers Rock

DAY THREE - Tuesday, April 7, 2020 - Ayers Rock

Breakfast, a drive to Kata Tjuta with its 36 majestic domes, and a stop at a viewing area

After breakfast at the Dune House restaurant, meet your guide and depart for the short drive to Kata Tjuta. Also known as the 'Olgas'. Kata Tjuta is comprised of 36 majestic domes. Along the way, a brief photo stop is made at the Kata Tjuta Viewing Area, with expert commentary of the ecology, fire management, and flora and fauna of the area.

Guided walking trek through the Walpa Gorge

Leaving the viewing platform, continue on for a guided walking trek through the Walpa Gorge, where your guide explains the natural history of Kata Tjuta in great detail. Learn how eons of weathering and continental upheaval have created what is seen today, as well as how these discoveries were made, and the dynamic interaction between the stark landscape and ecology.

Visit to the Cultural Centre to browse interactive displays about Uluru and Kata Tjuta

After admiring the mystical red domes from afar, visit the nearby Cultural Centre and browse the informative, interactive displays that provide insight into the spiritual and cultural meanings of Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Lunch at the Dune House restaurant

Following your visit, transfer back to Longitude 131°. Upon arrival, proceed for lunch at the Dune House restaurant.

Late-afternoon visit to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, an easy Mala Walk and the Kantju Gorge

In the late-afternoon, depart Longitude 131° before sunset for the transfer to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. As you drive around Uluru, your guide explains its geology and the tourism history of the region. Journey along the Mala Walk and, as day transforms into night, walk into Kantju Gorge to witness the gorge walls ablaze with the light of the setting sun. For thousands of years, Kantju Gorge has been a place of serenity. Respect is paid to local customs, and the peace of Kantju Gorge remains paramount throughout this tour.

Sunset-Viewing at the Kantju Gorge with Sparkling Wine and Canapés

During your visit to Kantju Gorge, hear birds in their last flurries before the sounds of frogs and other insects erupt throughout the gorge as night closes in. Vivid colours remain on the vast gorge walls in a vision that only Longitude 131° guests can experience. Whilst sipping sparkling wine and nibbling on canapés, embrace the silence and solitude of Kantju Gorge as the sun slowly disappears for the day, and the glorious colours of Uluru are revealed. After viewing the brilliant sunset, commence the drive back to Longitude 131°.

Dinner is at the Dune House restaurant.

Overnight accommodations in a Luxury Tent at Longitude 131° - Ayers Rock

DAY FOUR - Wednesday, April 8, 2020 - Ayers Rock

Sunrise visit to Uluru, guided walking tour, the Mutitjulu Waterhole and cave paintings

After an early-morning wake-up call, meet your guide and depart for a wonderful opportunity to experience the remarkable changing colours of the desert landscape, and spectacular sight of Uluru as day breaks over Australia's heartland. A walk to the peaceful Mutitjulu Waterhole offers a unique insight into the sheer physical and spiritual enormity of Uluru. Along the way, your guide points out cave paintings and other relevant sites important to Anangu and the early explorers. He also shares the Anangu creation story of Kuniya and Liru, adding greater depth to Uluru's striking features.

Breakfast, some free time at leisure and a light lunch at the Dune House restaurant

Following your visit, re-board your custom touring vehicle for the ride back to Longitude 131°, then proceed for breakfast at the Dune House restaurant. After breakfast and some free time at your leisure to explore on your own or simply relax at the resort, proceed for a light lunch at the Dune House restaurant.

This afternoon, you may choose from one of two activities:

Option One - Indigenous Cultural tour

Your first option is an indigenous cultural tour. Your guide will take you on a walk through the desert and explain more about the nations' first people who have been inhabiting these lands for tens of thousands of years.

Option Two - Camel-ride through the central Australian desert

Your second option features a scenic and exhilarating, approximately one-hour camel-ride through the central Australian desert, home to more wild camels than any other place in the world. As you ride atop these friendly camels, witness the spectacular desert landscape.

Transfer back to Longitude 131°, and some free time at leisure

At the conclusion of your chosen activity, transfer back to Longitude 131° for some free time to freshen-up before dinner.

Dinner is at the Dune House restaurant.

Overnight accommodations in a Luxury Tent at Longitude 131° - Ayers Rock

DAY FIVE - Thursday, April 9, 2020 - Ayers Rock/Alice Springs/Darwin

Breakfast, check-out, an airport transfer and a scheduled flight to Darwin via Alice Springs

After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, meet your guide and transfer to the Uluru Airport for your scheduled, approximately 45-minute flight to Alice Springs, and a connecting flight to Darwin.

Lunch at a local restaurant and a transfer to the Adelaide River

Upon arrival in Darwin, meet your guide and transfer for lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, re-board your coach and head to the Adelaide River.

Take a scenic and exciting 'Jumping Crocodile Cruise' along the Adelaide River

Upon arrival, embark your safe and comfortable, custom-built vessel for an unforgettable, approximately one-hour 'Jumping Crocodile Cruise'. These Northern Territory predators, among Australia's deadliest reptiles, amaze, and surprise you with their size and agility. The saltwater crocodiles are often viewed in cages or enclosures; however, this unique opportunity to observe these majestic jumping crocodiles in the wild is both educational and exciting, and not to be missed.

Transfer to Darwin, check-in to your hotel and some free time

Following your cruise, re-board your coach and transfer to the Darwin Hilton for check-in and some free time to relax and freshen-up before dinner.

Dinner is at the hotel.

Overnight accommodations in an ROH Room at the Darwin Hilton - Darwin

DAY SIX - Friday, April 10, 2020 - Darwin

After breakfast and check-out, transfer to the helipad for a scenic flight-seeing tour of Litchfield

After breakfast and some free time at your leisure, check-our, meet your guide and transfer to the helipad. Upon arrival, receive your safety and flight instructions, then board your helicopter, lift-off and take to the skies on this panoramic flight-seeing tour of Litchfield.

Fly over Litchfield National Park, waterfalls, wildlife, bird species, crocodiles, and more

Along the way, take in breath-taking vistas of the rushing waterfalls of Litchfield National Park and natural beauty of Australia's 'Top End'. From this vantage point, you may be able to spot local wildlife that includes water buffalo, amazing birdlife, and, perhaps, a crocodile or two.

Beach landing and lunch on Crab Claw Island

Following your scenic flight, touch down for a beach landing and lunch on Crab Claw Island. The rustic location is quintessentially the Top End.

Return flight to Darwin, and a transfer to the pier and ship

After lunch, re-board your helicopter for the return flight to Darwin. En route, fly over the port of Darwin, where you can see your awaiting ship. Upon arrival back at the helipad, meet your guide, transfer to the port of Darwin and embark the ship.

Please note: This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately one mile (about 1.6 kilometres) per day, at times over uneven, rocky, sandy, grassy, slippery, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat, board/de-board the airplane and helicopter, and many steps at the sites visited. The Longitude/Uluru programme may include very hot days, and some guests may find the temperature extremely uncomfortable. The touring programme also includes day trips to natural desert areas. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with a fear of heights, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, insect repellent, fly nets, raingear, a camera, and an approximately one-quart (about one-litre) water bottle from the ship; some pants and long sleeves are recommended, as the weather in Tasmania can change quickly, even in summer. Guests must carry their passports and ship's ID at all times. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, animal sightings are not guaranteed. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. The tour sequence and itinerary may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Programme Includes:

· One-night stay in an ROH Room at the Riley by Crystalbrook - Cairns

· Three-night stay in a Luxury Tent at Longitude 131° - Ayers Rock

· One-night stay in an ROH Room at the Hilton Hotel Darwin - Darwin

· Scheduled, Economy-Class flights: Cairns/Ayers Rock/Alice Springs/Darwin. Business-Class is available upon request at an additional charge and subject to availability, as most aircraft do not offer business seating.

Airlines restrict baggage to 44 pounds (about 20 kilograms) per person; hand-luggage cannot exceed 16 pounds (about seven kilograms) in weight, and smaller aircraft may be utilised (at the discretion of the airline).

· Five, breakfasts, six lunches and five dinners with drinks included

· Picturesque ride around Magnetic Island aboard a luxury sailing yacht

· Exclusive, private dinner whilst surrounded by fish and sharks - Cairns Aquarium

· Uluru sunset-viewing with a chilled glass of sparkling wine and canapés

· 'Field of Light' desert illumination

· Exclusive outdoor dining experience amidst the dunes at Table 131°

· 36 majestic domes - Kata Tjuta

· Walpa Gorge trek

· Cultural Centre visit with interactive displays

· Sunset-viewing at the Kantju Gorge with sparkling wine and canapés

· Sunrise visit to Uluru, Mutitjulu Waterhole and Anangu cave paintings

· Optional indigenous cultural tour

· Optional camel-ride through the central Australian desert

· Lunch at a local restaurant - Darwin

· Scenic and exciting 'Jumping Crocodile Cruise' along the Adelaide River

· Helicopter flight-seeing tour over Litchfield National Park

· All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary

Not Included:

Any meals and drinks not specified above, charges incurred by the airlines for excess or overweight luggage, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance, and other personal items.