BEST OF AUSTRALIA SYDNEY TO CAIRNS - 15 DAY BOUTIQUE TOUR
TRIP DESCRIPTION
15 days. Countless memories. This ultra-indulgent Sydney to Cairns trip is designed to give you a leisurely, expansive view of one of the world’s great coastlines, all with a small group. You’ll explore all the iconic hot spots, of course – Sydney’s glittering harbor, snorkeling with fish at the Great Barrier Reef, the bright sand at Whitehaven beach, and the chance to meet koalas, platypus, crocs and more – but you’ll also get the hidden gems that only locals know. And of course, out-of-this-world wine and seafood. Ready to discover the east coast?
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Start Location: Sydney
End Location: Cairns
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Great Barrier Reef day cruise including snorkeling & glass bottom boat
- Whitsunday Islands & Whitehaven beach day trip & snorkeling
- K'gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Experience - the largest sand island in the world
- Conservation Wildlife Park visit- Get close to koalas, Emus and more
- Gumbaynggirr First nations experience
- Koala Hospital Visit with Volunteers in Port Macquarie
- Visit Cape Tribulation
- Visit the oldest rainforest in the world (The Daintree)
- Hunter Valley wine, cheese, chocolate tour
- Nature cruise - Spot crocodiles, birds, fish in the wild
- Mossman Gorge entry and soft walk
- Byron Bay sights
ITINERARY
Day 1: Sydney
We start in Australia's Harbour City, the glittering jewel in the east coast's crown. Check into your room, freshen up, and meet your tour leader and new travel mates for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. Then, we are off for a great welcome dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travellers.
Overnight: Sydney
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Hunter Valley and Newcastle
We leave behind Sydney's skyscrapers and sidewalks for a wildlife park boasting an all-star cast of koalas, kangaroos, and more. We're in the heart of the Hunter Valley, so
there's nothing better than to take a wine, cheese & chocolate tasting. We'll also visit
the sunny port city of Newcastle, rounding oc an eclectic day.
Overnight: Hunter Valley
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Port Macquarie & The Koala Hospital
After breakfast, we’re off to Port Macquarie, where we’ll have a chance to meet the
volunteers at a Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. If you're unable to tear yourself away from the cuddly critters, don’t worry – you’re not the first. Expect to come away with loads more knowledge about these often-misunderstood creatures, & how, by joining our tour, you are supporting this fantastic centre's conservation efforts. Relax for the evening with a stroll along the foreshore & a free night for dinner. Enjoy the sounds of the local bird population, and keep your eyes peeled for the local wild dolphins who frequent the area!
Overnight: Port Macquarie
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Byron Bay
Take part in an immersive First Nations experience of the Gumbaynggirr nation that will get you in touch with the traditional custodians of this land. Then we're headed to Byron Bay, a laid-back surf paradise with boundless coastline, sand and friendly locals. We'll visit Cape Byron for a unique photo opportunity and the chance for the eagle-eyed to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life.
Overnight: Byron Bay
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Byron Bay
Today, we're talking relaxation, relaxation, and relaxation. Spend the morning on the
warm sand, shopping for bargains, or indulge in one of our optional activities: surfing or kayaking, plus many activities like balloon rides, whale watching, brewery tours etc. The day is all yours – put your feet up, head to a cozy bar, or watch the world go by from one of the local cafes.
Overnight: Byron Bay
Day 6: Noosa
We're crossing into Queensland – the Sunshine State. Your first stop is laid-back Noosa and Noosa National Park, where you can spot koalas and other Aussie critters. We continue further up the Sunshine Coast to our base for the next 2 nights; it's time to relax and soak up the atmosphere of the vibrant Rainbow Beach.
Overnight: Noosa
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: K’Gari (Fraser Island)
Ready, steady, go for a once-in-a-lifetime 4WD K’Gari adventure today. Once known as
Fraser Island, the destination, has been returned to its original name, K’gari. K’gari is the local Butchulla nation’s name for the island, meaning ‘paradise’ – you’ll find out why soon enough.
You'll never want to leave as we explore the largest sand island in the world, kick back
at some of Queensland's most renowned lookouts, take a walk on the wild side in a lush rainforest, dive into Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie), a crystal-clear lake, see the famous S.S Maheno shipwreck, and, of course, go dingo-spotting along the golden 75 Mile Beach. The fun needn't stop there; after the tour, feel free to enjoy Carlo Sand Blow and Rainbow Beach or put your feet up in your accommodation.
Overnight: Noosa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8: Brisbane
It’s Bris-vegas baby! We’re off to Queensland’s capital, Brisbane, soon to be home of the summer Olympics. Laidback, sunny, optimistic, buzzing – it’s the quintessential Aussie city in many ways. See how wonderful Brisbane is with a walk (or ferry ride) along the aptly named Brisbane River and its surrounds.
Overnight: Brisbane
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Brisbane to Airlie Beach
Airport time! It’s up, up, and away as we take the plane to Airlie Beach, the jewel in the
magnificent Whitsundays crown. It’s another choose-your-own-adventure day: take a
stroll through the town, find a cool little bar, or explore the local swimming hole; the
choice is yours.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10: Airlie Beach & Whitsunday Islands
After breakfast, we're taking a day cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the
Whitsundays, including a stop at the famed Whitehaven beach. Words can't do justice
to the dazzling white sands, azure waters, and densely verdant vegetation of this incredible corner of the world (so we won’t try!). Get a closer look by snorkelling with
colourful coral, playful fish, and maybe even some turtles. Afterwards, you can relax or seek the town's best food and drink options.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11: Mission Beach
A change of scenery today as we head through undulating cane fields to picturesque Mission Beach. This afternoon, kick back and enjoy. This is your chance to catch up on some reading, or just sit by the pool with a cold drink and enjoy this tropical paradise. We may be even lucky enough to spot some cassowary in the wild!
Overnight: Mission Beach
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12: Cairns via the Atherton Tablelands
Enjoy breakfast before we travel into the wet tropics of Far North Queensland. We'll
discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest en route to the Atherton Tablelands. Take a dip in the cool water before we head to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with crystal-clear water, and visit the massive ‘Curtain Fig Tree.’ We'll finish the day in Cairns, Australia's most vibrant, tropical and energetic city.
Overnight: Mission Beach
Meals: Breakfast
Day 13: Snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef
One of the highlights of any trip to Australia is the Great Barrier Reef. Today, we will cruise to the famed reef, where we’ll go snorkelling to see incredible marine life. Learn about this unique reef with conservation commentary onboard a fantastic catamaran. This is the big one, so get the camera ready! After a great day at one of the world's seven natural wonders (and the only one seen from space), join us for a farewell dinner to share stories of our adventures!
Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 14: Daintree Rainforest -Mossman Gorge, Cape tribulation & nature/crocodile cruise
It’s another big day – we’re going deeper into the tropical World Heritage-listed Daintree
Rainforest, and Cape Tribulation (don’t worry, it’s just a name!) on a short ferry ride.
We’ll explore the ancient rainforest on a light walk, and keep our eyes peeled for ancient
cassowary birds, crocs, and other tropical wildlife! After a great day exploring, unwind
over a local farewell meal together.
Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15: Cairns
Start your final day with a delicious breakfast. It’s time to say farewell, return home, or
continue your travels. Thanks for an excellent adventure together!
Meals: Breakfast
DATES & PRICES
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AVAILABILITY
START DATE
END DATE
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
DEPOSIT
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Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHY CHOOSE ANDERSON VACATIONS?
Anderson Vacations
Other Companies
Small Group Tours
Travel with a limited number of participants for a personalized journey with a tour leader.Experienced Tour Leaders
Who have gone through intensive vetting and training.(But most contract their tour leaders from Anderson Vacations.)
Canadian Travel Experts
With at least 30 years of experience.Min. 95% Satisfaction Rate
From past guests.Travel to unique places, visit more attractions each day.
Without the distractions of tipping.Activities and excursions included as part of the tour.
(Not as add-ons.)Sustainability
Planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
- Friendly & experienced local guide
- Small Group Tour (Max 16 Guests)
- All accommodation (As listed in the itinerary)
- All transport (Private buses, domestic flight & boat trips)
- No hidden cost on our tours - Look closely at our amazing inclusions & value for money
- Various attractions (As listed in the itinerary)
EXCLUSIONS
- Flights/Airfare
- Travel insurance (Strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
- Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
- Meals not listed
- Gratuities to guide & drivers
Why Take An Anderson Tour?
Seasoned Tour Guides
Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe
We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive
No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't
Our guide training manual is accredited by ACTA/CITC Canadian Educational Standard Inc. Now used as the standard in educational college programs.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Tour Questions
What is the maximum number of travellers in a group?
Anderson Vacations specializes in Small Group Fully Escorted tours. If the tour is classified as a ‘Classic Tour’ up to 24 persons may join the tour although tours commonly travel with anywhere between 18 to 24 travellers. If the tour is classified as a 'Tour of Distinction’ only up to 18 persons may join the tour and many 'Tours of Distinction' travel with 12 to 18 travellers.
What are Guaranteed Departures?
After dreaming about travel to an exciting destination, arranging for time off work, booking your flights the last thing you need is for your trip to be cancelled. Anderson vacation's pre-Guaranteed tours take the uncertainty away from planning your travel and give you peace of mind to book our tours. Pre-Guaranteed Tours are group tours that we have already confirmed as certain to travel on the specified date. All 'Guaranteed Tours' will travel except in the event of a natural disaster or a catastrophic event that is beyond our control. They may already have the minimum number of people booked or else are tours that are known to be popular. Only select departures of tours are 'pre-Guaranteed'.
What happens if I book on a tour that is not Guaranteed?
We pride ourselves on providing “a small shared group experience.” In the event that we have fewer than ten participants on a tour we will offer a “small-group surcharge” to ensure that the tour runs as scheduled. This fee, which is up to 15% of the “land” portion of the tour, will be offered to you as an option to continue with the trip. This fee will cover the costs associated with handling a smaller group.
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
Some tours are mainly coach based and may not be physically demanding while others may require walking inclines or on rough surfaces to access interesting locations. Please check with us and your booking agent carefully and discuss your mobility restrictions before completing any tour booking to ensure this style of travel is right for you.
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes, we do accommodate dietary restrictions (within reason) such as, food allergies, vegan, vegetarian, etc. There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes, we can assist you with airport transfers for you in most locations at a reasonable extra cost. Several tours have airport transfers already included. Please contact us for more details.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes, we can certainly assist with booking additional nights of hotel accommodation for you before and after your fully escorted tour. This is available upon request and subject to availability. Please inquire for further information and prices.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for baggage is 20 kilograms or about 40 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages but there may be places where you will be required to wheel in your bags for quicker access. Be sure to advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of a coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations guidelines.
I am a solo traveller. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo travellers can choose to pay a Single Supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share with a co-traveller of the same gender, we have a Twin Share option that is offered for most tours where you share a hotel room with another same gender traveller. In this case, you will not be charged for Single Supplement.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire or contact us regarding this option, as prices and availability vary from tour to tour.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Yes, you can! Anderson Vacations works with many private groups and helps to customize a tour to traveller’s needs. Please contact us for more details.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals that are specified in the itinerary are included in the tour price. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 10-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Coach Driver (where appropriate) and Tour Director are entirely at your discretion. We recommend about CDN $5.00 per person, per day, for your Driver and CDN$7.00 per person, per day for your Tour Leader.
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Ready? Have More Questions?
Over 25 years offering custom trips and small group tours.
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS TRIP
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Seasoned Tour Guides
Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe
We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive
No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't
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Tour Code
15SC
Best of Australia Sydney to Cairns - 15 Day Boutique Tour
15 days
Created On: 22 Dec 2024
Highlights
- Great Barrier Reef day cruise including snorkeling & glass bottom boat
- Whitsunday Islands & Whitehaven beach day trip & snorkeling
- K'gari (Fraser Island) 4WD Experience - the largest sand island in the world
- Conservation Wildlife Park visit- Get close to koalas, Emus and more
- Gumbaynggirr First nations experience
- Koala Hospital Visit with Volunteers in Port Macquarie
- Visit Cape Tribulation
- Visit the oldest rainforest in the world (The Daintree)
- Hunter Valley wine, cheese, chocolate tour
- Nature cruise - Spot crocodiles, birds, fish in the wild
- Mossman Gorge entry and soft walk
- Byron Bay sights
Inclusions
- 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
- Friendly & experienced local guide
- Small Group Tour (Max 16 Guests)
- All accommodation (As listed in the itinerary)
- All transport (Private buses, domestic flight & boat trips)
- No hidden cost on our tours - Look closely at our amazing inclusions & value for money
- Various attractions (As listed in the itinerary)
Exclusions
- Flights/Airfare
- Travel insurance (Strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
- Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
- Meals not listed
- Gratuities to guide & drivers
Dates & Prices
AVAILABILITY
START DATE
END DATE
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
DEPOSIT
AVAILABLE
Sun, 15 Feb 2026
Sun, 01 Mar 2026
$$7,685 USD$7,535 USD
$515 USD
$500 USD
AVAILABLE
Sun, 01 Mar 2026
Sun, 15 Mar 2026
$$7,685 USD$7,535 USD
$515 USD
$500 USD
Itinerary
Day 1: Sydney
We start in Australia's Harbour City, the glittering jewel in the east coast's crown. Check into your room, freshen up, and meet your tour leader and new travel mates for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. Then, we are off for a great welcome dinner and the chance to get to know your fellow travellers.
Overnight: Sydney
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Hunter Valley and Newcastle
We leave behind Sydney's skyscrapers and sidewalks for a wildlife park boasting an all-star cast of koalas, kangaroos, and more. We're in the heart of the Hunter Valley, so
there's nothing better than to take a wine, cheese & chocolate tasting. We'll also visit
the sunny port city of Newcastle, rounding oc an eclectic day.
Overnight: Hunter Valley
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Port Macquarie & The Koala Hospital
After breakfast, we’re off to Port Macquarie, where we’ll have a chance to meet the
volunteers at a Port Macquarie Koala Hospital. If you're unable to tear yourself away from the cuddly critters, don’t worry – you’re not the first. Expect to come away with loads more knowledge about these often-misunderstood creatures, & how, by joining our tour, you are supporting this fantastic centre's conservation efforts. Relax for the evening with a stroll along the foreshore & a free night for dinner. Enjoy the sounds of the local bird population, and keep your eyes peeled for the local wild dolphins who frequent the area!
Overnight: Port Macquarie
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Byron Bay
Take part in an immersive First Nations experience of the Gumbaynggirr nation that will get you in touch with the traditional custodians of this land. Then we're headed to Byron Bay, a laid-back surf paradise with boundless coastline, sand and friendly locals. We'll visit Cape Byron for a unique photo opportunity and the chance for the eagle-eyed to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life.
Overnight: Byron Bay
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5: Byron Bay
Today, we're talking relaxation, relaxation, and relaxation. Spend the morning on the
warm sand, shopping for bargains, or indulge in one of our optional activities: surfing or kayaking, plus many activities like balloon rides, whale watching, brewery tours etc. The day is all yours – put your feet up, head to a cozy bar, or watch the world go by from one of the local cafes.
Overnight: Byron Bay
Day 6: Noosa
We're crossing into Queensland – the Sunshine State. Your first stop is laid-back Noosa and Noosa National Park, where you can spot koalas and other Aussie critters. We continue further up the Sunshine Coast to our base for the next 2 nights; it's time to relax and soak up the atmosphere of the vibrant Rainbow Beach.
Overnight: Noosa
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: K’Gari (Fraser Island)
Ready, steady, go for a once-in-a-lifetime 4WD K’Gari adventure today. Once known as
Fraser Island, the destination, has been returned to its original name, K’gari. K’gari is the local Butchulla nation’s name for the island, meaning ‘paradise’ – you’ll find out why soon enough.
You'll never want to leave as we explore the largest sand island in the world, kick back
at some of Queensland's most renowned lookouts, take a walk on the wild side in a lush rainforest, dive into Boorangoora (Lake McKenzie), a crystal-clear lake, see the famous S.S Maheno shipwreck, and, of course, go dingo-spotting along the golden 75 Mile Beach. The fun needn't stop there; after the tour, feel free to enjoy Carlo Sand Blow and Rainbow Beach or put your feet up in your accommodation.
Overnight: Noosa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8: Brisbane
It’s Bris-vegas baby! We’re off to Queensland’s capital, Brisbane, soon to be home of the summer Olympics. Laidback, sunny, optimistic, buzzing – it’s the quintessential Aussie city in many ways. See how wonderful Brisbane is with a walk (or ferry ride) along the aptly named Brisbane River and its surrounds.
Overnight: Brisbane
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9: Brisbane to Airlie Beach
Airport time! It’s up, up, and away as we take the plane to Airlie Beach, the jewel in the
magnificent Whitsundays crown. It’s another choose-your-own-adventure day: take a
stroll through the town, find a cool little bar, or explore the local swimming hole; the
choice is yours.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10: Airlie Beach & Whitsunday Islands
After breakfast, we're taking a day cruise through the postcard-perfect islands of the
Whitsundays, including a stop at the famed Whitehaven beach. Words can't do justice
to the dazzling white sands, azure waters, and densely verdant vegetation of this incredible corner of the world (so we won’t try!). Get a closer look by snorkelling with
colourful coral, playful fish, and maybe even some turtles. Afterwards, you can relax or seek the town's best food and drink options.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 11: Mission Beach
A change of scenery today as we head through undulating cane fields to picturesque Mission Beach. This afternoon, kick back and enjoy. This is your chance to catch up on some reading, or just sit by the pool with a cold drink and enjoy this tropical paradise. We may be even lucky enough to spot some cassowary in the wild!
Overnight: Mission Beach
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12: Cairns via the Atherton Tablelands
Enjoy breakfast before we travel into the wet tropics of Far North Queensland. We'll
discover a magnificent plunge waterfall nestled in dense tropical rainforest en route to the Atherton Tablelands. Take a dip in the cool water before we head to Lake Eacham, a crater lake with crystal-clear water, and visit the massive ‘Curtain Fig Tree.’ We'll finish the day in Cairns, Australia's most vibrant, tropical and energetic city.
Overnight: Mission Beach
Meals: Breakfast
Day 13: Snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef
One of the highlights of any trip to Australia is the Great Barrier Reef. Today, we will cruise to the famed reef, where we’ll go snorkelling to see incredible marine life. Learn about this unique reef with conservation commentary onboard a fantastic catamaran. This is the big one, so get the camera ready! After a great day at one of the world's seven natural wonders (and the only one seen from space), join us for a farewell dinner to share stories of our adventures!
Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 14: Daintree Rainforest -Mossman Gorge, Cape tribulation & nature/crocodile cruise
It’s another big day – we’re going deeper into the tropical World Heritage-listed Daintree
Rainforest, and Cape Tribulation (don’t worry, it’s just a name!) on a short ferry ride.
We’ll explore the ancient rainforest on a light walk, and keep our eyes peeled for ancient
cassowary birds, crocs, and other tropical wildlife! After a great day exploring, unwind
over a local farewell meal together.
Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15: Cairns
Start your final day with a delicious breakfast. It’s time to say farewell, return home, or
continue your travels. Thanks for an excellent adventure together!
Meals: Breakfast
