Trip Highlights

Enjoy a unique Australian holiday experience starting in either Perth or Sydney.

If you're travelling from Sydney you'll cruise up the east coast of Australia, stopping in at Brisbane and Cairns, as well as Alotau in Papua New Guinea. Then you'll head west to Darwin, Broome and the Kimberley Coast with scenic cruising. Next, you'll cruise south to Geraldton before finishing the cruise in Perth. If cruising from Perth you'll stay a night in Sydney before your return flight and vice versa.

Never been to WA? Consider spending two days exploring Perth then visit the beautiful Margaret River region. Staying in Busselton and Margaret River you'll get to experience some of the region’s famous scenery and attractions. This 6-day cruise extension package is from just $899 per person.

Trip highlights*:

• 17-day cruise from Sydney to Perth and reverse along the North Coast of Australia
• Ocean view cabin
• See remote parts of northern Australia
• Visit Darwin and Alotau Papua New Guinea
• Enjoy 1 night, Gold Standard accommodation in central Perth/Sydney

6-day WA cruise extension package (from $899pp):

• 6 days car hire
• 3 nights central Perth
• 1 night Busselton
• 2 nights Margaret River
• Swan River dinner cruise
• Tour of Swan Valley, Lancelin, and Nambung National Park
• Bunbury Dolphin cruise

* See full itinerary for details. Package price varies according to travel dates and departure city. Cruise extension package from $899. Gold package from $1,259.

Member Pricing

RETAIL VALUE $3,720pp GETAWAY CASH CREDITS APPLIED -$651 YOU PAY* $3,069

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* All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. Price, Getaway Cash travel credit usage, Free Flights Voucher usage and deposit amount varies according to travel date. All prices are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Full booking terms and conditions are available here.

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Inclusions

This package is an unmissable deal - a great Australian holiday through wonders like the northern tropics and white sand beaches, trendy cities and wonderful wineries. Indulge yourself in this jam-packed holiday that explores parts of Australia that very few see. With a full itinerary and comfortable accommodation, you don't have to worry, just leave all the organising to the experts. If you have any additions or changes just let us know and we will personalise this itinerary for you.

This is a first-class travel itinerary that's fully flexible. Want more or fewer days or you want to include a special destination or activity? No problem, we’ll customise a travel plan for you.

Rediscover Australia

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Package inclusions:

• Start in Perth or Sydney
• 17-day cruise across the top of Australia
• Ocean view cabin
• See remote parts of northern Australia
• Visit Darwin and Alotau Papua New Guinea
• Enjoy 1 night, Gold Standard accommodation in central Perth/Sydney
• Flight back to Perth/Sydney
• 1 night Gold standard post-cruise accommodation in central Perth/Sydney
• No fees to alter the itinerary (you just pay for the adjusted itinerary)
• Comprehensive, printed itinerary
• Free help to choose and plan your cruise excursions
• Personal travel consultant

6-day WA Bronze cruise extension package (from $899pp):

• 6 days standard car hire
• 3 nights central Perth
• 1 night Busselton
• 2 nights Margaret River
• Swan River dinner cruise
• Bunbury Dolphin cruise

6-day WA Gold cruise extension package (from $1,259pp):

• 6 days SUV car hire
• 3 nights central Perth
• 1 night Busselton
• 2 nights Margaret River
• Swan River dinner cruise
• Tour of Swan Valley, Lancelin, and Nambung National Park
• Bunbury Dolphin cruise

Bronze or Gold standard accommodation supplied according to the package.

Carefully selected accommodation:

Read about our accommodation rating standards and the methods used to assess quality.

Fully customisable:

This itinerary is fully customisable to suit your requirements. Your personal travel consultant is available to discuss changes and additions that will enhance your travel experience.

Special value:

Lonely Planet is renowned for its first-hand approach, up-to-date maps and commitment to providing the best information for travelers. Lonely Planet authors are experienced, insightful travel experts. They personally research the places they write about - both in the first and in subsequent editions - and provide essential travel details along with a wealth of insider information and first-hand tips.

You will receive these guides to help you gain the most out of your holiday. Recommendation: Take the time to read suggestions for things to see and do before you leave home. Take your Lonely Planet guides with you in your luggage.

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* All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. If flights are shown as included then a flight cost provision (allowance) applies and is based on travel from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Travel can be arranged from any other major centre and for any number of people. All prices shown are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Total price after member discount (using Getaway Cash credits and Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers if applicable) is generally payable as follows: Deposit on booking, balance 120 days prior to departure. Packages can be priced for families and groups on request. Standard (retail) price comparisons are with similar packages offered elsewhere or what would be payable by a non-member for the same package. Travel insurance if included is a provision only and may be declined on requestTravel insurance pricing if stated is based on comprehensive travel insurance for two travellers aged 69 years or less as at the date of departure from Australia. No recommendations or advice are given in regard to travel insurance suitability. Travel Directions Pty Ltd (t/as Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club) standard booking terms and conditions apply to all booking enquiries and bookings and are available here to view (or visit our website and go to either the "Booking Enquiry" or "About Us" menu item.)

Your Itinerary

Start in Perth or Sydney

(Sydney itinerary) Cruise from Sydney to Brisbane and Cairns, Alotau in Papua New Guinea, to Darwin, Broome and the Kimberley Coast, then to Geraldton, finishing in Perth. Extend your holiday in south-west WA for 6 days from $899 after GCash credits. Explore sophisticated and gorgeous Perth before you pick up a hire car to see the Margaret River region, where you can delight in the region’s famous attractions and scenery.

Tip: For each part of your cruise and tour you'll have a Lonely Planet guide book to help you plan and make the most of your time. We'll also help you choose and plan your excursions.

"Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world." - Gustav Flaubert

Sydney to Perth (or vice versa)

If you're travelling fromn Sydney consider adding a night staying at Sydney's Darling Harbour or The Rocks prior to the start of your cruise.

DAY 1: CRUISE START

Board your cruise and depart through beautiful Sydney Harbour. Bon Voyage!

While on board you can enjoy a range of activities and entertainment, as well as your stateroom.

DAY 2: AT SEA

DAY 3: BRISBANE

Welcome to Brisbane, the first of your tropical destinations. Explore the river city and discover the wide range of fun you can have.

Head into the city centre and across to Southbank (pictured) for an easy day. Choose from chic shopping destinations, some of the most famous animal sanctuaries in Australia, or for thrill seekers; head to the Gold Coast for the awesome theme parks. Excursions are available from the cruise operator.

DAY 4: AT SEA

DAY 5: AT SEA

DAY 6: CAIRNS

Cairns is one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. Surrounded by natural wonders; the Great Barrier Reef, the beautiful beaches of the Marlin Coast and the Daintree Rainforest, but also a beautiful city in its own right. There are many things to see and do, but if you’ve never seen the Great Barrier Reef then it's a highly recommended excursion.

DAY 7: AT SEA

DAY 8: ALOTAU, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Alotau is a unique destination, a tropical paradise with white sand beaches, crystal clear water, emerald green rainforests and friendly people.

Relax and enjoy the tropical bliss or explore the interesting history, immerse yourself in festival fun and culture of this region with a tour from the cruise operator.

DAY 9: AT SEA

DAY 10: AT SEA

DAY 11: DARWIN

Today you will be calling into Darwin, known for its tropical rainforests and wild-life, including the infamous saltwater crocodile. Darwin has a plethora of activities to enjoy. You can explore the harbour and discover the unique city of Darwin or head out to glorious Litchfield National Park.

There are many possible excursions hosted by the cruise company.

DAY 12: AT SEA

DAY 13: KIMBERLEY COAST SCENIC CRUISING

The practically untouched Kimberley Coast is a breathtaking panorama of contrasting natural sights, red rocks and white sand, blue water and colourful reefs. Look out upon prehistoric environments and be blown away by pure, untamed beauty.

DAY 14: BROOME

Today you will be stopping in at the beautiful but isolated city of Broome. Famous for its pearling past and beautiful white sand beaches Broome is as unique as the pearls found in its bay.

Explore famous Cable Beach or the historical areas in and around the city. The cruise offers excursions for all the sights to see.

DAY 15: AT SEA

DAY 16: AT SEA

DAY 17: GERALDTON

The city of Geraldton is where you will be stopping today. It's a historic yet trendy city. Geraldton has stunning inner-city beaches and a splendid climate, perfect for a beach day. There is also some very interesting history surrounding the area for those who wish to learn. Excursions are available from the cruise operator.

DAY 18: FREEMANTLE - PERTH

Today is your final day of the cruise. After disembarking, head to Perth to your accommodation (via cruise transfer), drop your bags and enjoy the morning out and about. Then head back home on Day 19, or get to know WA...

6-day cruise extension package:

DAY 19: PERTH

Extend your holiday by an additional 6 days and explore Perth and its gorgeous surrounds. After picking up your hire car, the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. The choices are endless and your Lonely Planet guide will help you plan, and make the most of each day of your extra three-night stay here.

DAY 20: PERTH

Today you have the day to explore Perth, we recommend Kings Park, a city park even bigger than Central Park.

Or head to Rottnest Island, a car-free island full of adorable quokkas. Tonight, you will be seeing the beauty of Perth from a dinner cruise on the Swan River. Enjoy!

DAY 21: PERTH

Today you will be seeing some of the unique wonders of Western Australia with a tour to the Swan Valley, Lancelin and Nambung National Park. (Gold standard package) This tour is filled with friendly animals, wine and chocolate, spectacular white dunes, and more special scenery.

DAY 22: BUSSELTON

Depart Perth for Busselton, a little under two hours' drive away, so you can head straight there or stop in at one of the many beautiful towns on the way.

At Bunbury, on the way as well, you will be heading out into Koombana Bay on a special cruise. This will allow you to see Bunbury’s most famous attractions, the adorable bottlenose dolphins.

DAY 23: MARGARET RIVER

Margaret River is in the heart of one of the world's most famous wine regions but even if you are not a wine lover there's plenty of natural beauty here.

Suggested option (not included): Enjoy a wine-tasting and lunch at one of the best wineries. We'll happily arrange this for you.

DAY 24: MARGARET RIVER

Today you have plenty of options to choose from such as the beautiful beaches and nearby towns, or the wonderful boutiques in the area. But there is one activity we definitely recommend, a tour of the limestone caves. These caves are as breathtaking as they are huge. Later, there is no shortage of wonderful restaurants from which to choose.

DAY 25: PERTH

This morning you'll drive back to Perth for an afternoon flight home, undoubtedly with a plan to return to WA again some time soon.