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Vanuatu Diving & Exploring [ST-DiveVAN4]

13 Days/ 11 Nights - Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu, Port Vila, Vanuatu, Sydney

Begin your vacation of a lifetime on the island of Espiritu Santo (Santo). With many wrecks and reefs to be explored, it is a very popular tourist destination for divers. Champagne Beach draws tourists with its pink sand and clear waters. The "Western Side" of the island contains many caves which may be explored, and cruise ships often stop in at Luganville.

The capital of Port Vila is the hub of tourism in Vanuatu. Be sure to visit the Mummas Market located downtown. Outside of Port Vila a more rustic destination awaits, with most people living a traditional lifestyle: cooking island food, going to tend their gardens daily as subsistence agriculture is the dominant economy in Vanuatu and swimming at the beach.

Enjoy the sights of Sydney, a World Class City from your Downtown Accommodation. Experience the beauty of the Harbour, the Opera House and marvel at the expansive Sydney Harbour Bridge. Take advantage of the many tour options or just go at your own pace and enjoy the excellent restaurants and entertainment that only Sydney can offer.

Travel Package Features

• Accommodation - Santo, Vanuatu (7 Nights), Port Vila, Vanuatu (2 Nights), Sydney (2 Nights)
• International Flights -Los Angeles to Brisbane, Brisbane to Santo (via Port Vila), Port Vila to Sydney, Sydney to Los Angeles
• Vanuatu Domestic Flights - Santo to Port Vila
• US Domestic Flights not included (as per your own arrangements)
• Day Tours - Santo: 5 Day Dive Package including SS President Coolidge & Million Dollar Point
• Shuttle Transfers - Santo Airport to Accommodation (Return), Port Vila Airport to Accommodation (Return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return)
• All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
• Visa only required for some South Pacific countries; $15 visa fee per person where applicable.
• F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
• All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
• Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.

Travel Package Detailed Itinerary

(Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Brisbane

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Brisbane.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

(Day 2) - International Flight, Brisbane to Espiritu Santo

International flight to Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu

Your International flight will take you to Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu direct from Brisbane.

(Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer, Espiritu Santo Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your Vanuatu Accommodation.

(Days 2 to 9) - 7 Nights Accommodation in Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu

Your Vanuatu Accommodation offers a friendly and lively environment popular with dive groups and singles. Their outdoor dining area and partially-shaded pool have stunning views of Santo and its nearby islands.

Amenities include: private showers and toilets, fridge and fans in each room, secure dive gear washing and storage facilities, continental breakfast, rec room/lounge, island nights, bar/restaurant and tour bookings. 10 minute walk to/from town.

(Days 3 through 7) - 5 Day Dive Package Including SS President Coolidge & Million Dollar Point

Five days of diving on the SS Coolidge and Million Dollar Point.

SS PRESIDENT COOLIDGE DIVING:
Considered by many divers to be the best wreck dive in the world, the SS President Coolidge was a luxury passenger liner converted to a troop carrier during WWII. While entering the Santo harbor she was hit by friendly mines, providing divers with a remarkable underwater playground.

Almost completely intact, you can swim through the numerous holds and decks viewing the reminders of her glorious days as a cruise liner and the remnants of her days as a troop ship. There are guns, cannons, jeeps, helmets, trucks and personal supplies left by some of the soldiers, as well as the beautiful porcelain statue of "The Lady," chandeliers and a mosaic tile fountain. The wreck is covered in coral and is home to a plethora of sea life including turtles, barracuda, lion fish, and a host of reef fish.

If you want to see the whole wreck, you'll need at least 10 to 15 dives - she's 200 metres in length and rests in 20 to 72 metres of water! - But you can certainly get a feel for her magnitude and majesty on even a few dives.


MILLION DOLLAR POINT DIVING:
After World War 2, the American's forces based in Santo were ordered not to leave any military equipment and supplies on the island (to avoid them getting into the wrong hands). The solution was the establishment of an underwater dump site, now known as Million Dollar Point. It is an easy dive from the shore where you can see two ship wrecks, and numerous amounts of military hardware and supplies - including bulldozers, cranes, trucks etc. A great diversity of marine life has made this their home with some unusual coral growth amongst the wreckage.

(Day 9) - Shuttle Transfer, Espiritu Santo Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from the your Vanuatu Accommodation to the Airport.

(Day 9) - Vanuatu Domestic Flight, Espiritu Santo to Port Vila

Fly from Espiritu Santo Airport to Port Vila.

(Day 9) - Shuttle Transfer, Port Vila Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Port Vila Airport to your vacation Accommodation.

(Days 9 to 11) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Port Vila, Vanuatu

Travel to your accommodation in Port Vila, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Soak up the year-round tropical climate at our luxurious Vanuatu hotel accommodation with prime waterfront location on Port Vila Harbour. The rooms feature private balcony, ensuite and internet access. Enjoy a continental breakfast; take a leisurely swim in our swimming pool; exercise in the gymnasium; relax in the restaurant; or unwind at the casino.

(Day 10) - Free Day to Explore Port Vila

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Horseback Riding ½ Day Experience

Enjoy an unforgetable experience of horseback riding through the beach, bush and hills!

This half day expedition offers a versatile combination of scenery, beach, hills behind the ranch, wild bush and tropical forest and the beautiful garden with breathtaking views of the sea. Enjoy the star of the bay, Hide-away Island, not so hidden for many lucky tourists, would become the star of your own photos.

All riders are welcome, with gentle placid mounts for absolute beginners and more spirited horses for advanced riders.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Pentecost Land Diving

Come witness this annual land diving ritual.

Experience a full day trip to Pentecost Island to witness this death defying ritual where divers survive by the natural elastic vines just inches before they hit the ground. The ritual of the N'gol is an extraordinary event, filled with a dignity and mystique - and real risk to life and limb. This ritual celebrates the Yam Harvest annually. This is a unique cultural experience with limited departures.

Selected Days in April, May & June

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Port Vila Parasailing

Whilst visiting Port Vila you have a great opportunity to come parasailing with us.

You will enjoy a short jet boat ride over the beautiful harbour of Port Vila in our purpose built parasailing boat. You will be assisted into your life jacket and harness so that, when your turn comes, you can be hooked up and slowly winched off the flight deck into the air. The crew will give you a briefing on what to expect during your flight so there will be no surprises.

You will parasail around spectacular Mele Bay, and from a height of around 75 metres you will see villages and Islands, reefs and the sea. At the end of your flight you will be gradually winced back to the flight deck.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Efate Round Island Safari

This takes you around the island of Efate accompanied by your driver/guide who will give you some insight into the history and lifestyle of Vanuatu.

Passing pandanus fringed coastline you'll pass true Melanesian villages of the South Pacific. Enjoy a swim and view beautiful white sand beaches and appreciate the crystal-clear turquoise waters as you travel around the island.

Weather permitting, a further highlight of today's tour is witnessing the time-honoured art of fire-walking. The tradition and preparation the men undertake before performing will be explained.

You journey on passing more villages to catch glimpses of local life, before arriving at a local restaurant for a buffet-style lunch. Following lunch, stops will also be made to view remnants of the American forces involvement in Vanuatu during World War 2. During your afternoon refreshment stop, you have time to cool off with a swim in the safe tropical waters.

On the way back to Port Vila you will pass Klems Hill Lookout which provides a superb view over Mele Bay, Hideaway Island and the township in the distance.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Best of Efate Scenic Helicopter Ride

Get ready for take off and see the Best of Efate Island!

Fly over Hideaway Island resort marine sanctuary, over the famous Cascade Falls and then look below into dense jungle scenery, bush clad blow holes and tight ravines that lead into Havannah Harbour. Havannah Harbour has the true unspoilt natural beauty Vanuatu offers. Witness elegant/beautiful dudong and turtle sea life swimming below in deep blue mirror flat water as you cross the harbour to reach Moso Island.
Only 2 passengers per flight

Adventure Flight Upgrade Available
Romantic Flight Upgrade Available

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Kayaking, Snorkeling and Beautiful Waterfalls

Experience the famous Mele Cascades Waterfalls and the amazing underwater World of Vanuatu all in one amazing Kayaking tour.

From your hotel enjoy a 15 min drive by air-con bus to the famous Mele Cascades Waterfalls, cool off in the natural springs. Enjoy a light lunch at the river side cafe. A short time later you will be welcomed on the beach and paddle your glass bottom kayak to a small sand island, swim or snorkel at your leisure in the underwater paradise, experience some of the best snorkeling Vanuatu has to offer in the beautiful Mele bay, frequently sighted resident dolphins & turtles may join you.

This tour is fully guided by experienced local Ni-Vanuatu Guides to maximise your enjoyment in an eco friendly way.

Suitable to all age groups & fitness levels

(Day 11) - Shuttle Transfer, Port Vila Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Port Vila vacation Accommodation to the Airport

(Day 11) - International Flight, Port Vila to Sydney

Today fly from Port Vila, Vanuatu to Sydney, Australia.

(Day 11) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

Travel via shuttle to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

(Days 11 to 13) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights in your studio room apartment.

Just 30 minutes from Sydney Airport, your accommodation is conveniently located between Darling Harbour and the Sydney CBD.

The friendly staff at your accommodation can attend to your every need with 24 hour guest reception. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at their signature restaurant.

Relax in a stylish and comfortable haven whilst being in close proximity to shopping at Westfield's Pitt St Mall and Darling Harbour. Don't forget to take a stroll down Pitt St towards Circular Quay to take in more of Sydney's world famous sites- like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

(Day 12) - Free Day to Explore Sydney

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

Walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or take the 30 minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, Sydney's premier beach resort. Here you can enjoy the laid back beach culture as well as many festivals and events. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is approximately a 10 minute train ride and is one of Australia's most famous and iconic beaches. Save some time to take a beach walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach, it's known to be a true highlight. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Sydney Opera House Tour - 1 Hr

This inspiring tour provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to venture inside one of the world's most recognised global landmarks.

<a href="//youtu.be/C2UPo8f7EpE" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Sydney-Opera-House-Tour-Australia.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

This one hour tour outlines the intricate and controversial history of the Sydney Opera House along with details of the unique design of this architectural masterpiece.

You will visit a number of the six performance venues, including the magnificent wood paneled Concert Hall and the Opera Theatre as well as the new Utzon room.

You will also visit the glass enclosed northern foyer areas which boast spectacular views of Sydney Harbour - a perfect photo opportunity.

<b>Operates</b>

Daily.

<b>Need to Know</b>

1 - 11 guests maximum per group. No large bags or luggage accepted. This tour contains approximately 200 steps - low impact.

<b>Times</b>

Departs every hour between 9:00am - 5:00pm.

<b>Inclusions</b>

Guided tour of the Sydney Opera House.

Optional Day Tour (Not Included)- Hunter Valley Wine Tour - Full Day

Explore the fertile Hunter Valley and taste delicious food and awardwinning wines. Enjoy private vineyard inspections and learn of the winemaking process. Spend time strolling in the vineyards, purchase some wine or simply enjoy the beautiful Australian countryside.

Admire the magnificent views of the Hawkesbury River on your drive through the Central Coast. The Hunter Valley is home to Australia’s oldest wine-producing region and owes its fame to world-class viticulturists and fertile soils.

Enjoy a private wine tasting experience at Leogate Estate Wines, which produces trophy-winning wines such as Chardonnay, Semillon and Shiraz, and learn of local wine-making techniques. Visit Hunter Valley Resort, where you can walk among the vines and learn about the wine-making process and the key role the resort plays in this region.

Enjoy lunch made with local produce, while you sample some of the area’s best wines. You’ll also have the chance to purchase a beer tasting paddle from the on-site brewery. The McGuigan family are respected pioneers of the industry and at their cellar door you’ll be greeted warmly and welcomed to a tasting of their fine wines.

Finish the day at Roche Estate, where you’ll have free time to explore the shops offering Australian cheeses at the Smelly Cheese Shop and gourmet delights plus coffee, gelato, craft beer and cellar doors (own expense).

<b>Operates</b>

Daily

<b>Times</b>

Sydney CBD hotel Pick-up 7:45 - 8:00am & Return 6:30pm (approximate times)
 
<b>Inclusions</b>

- 3 Wine Tastings
- Lunch
- Experienced Driver Guide
- Comprehensive commentary
- Travel in an air-conditioned coach

<b>Upgrades</b>

Upgrade to a Small Group Luxury Tour

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Americas Cup Sailing in the Sydney Harbour

Take a unique opportunity to participate as crew on a real America's Cup yacht.

<a href="//youtu.be/lZ3oX-oPyOo" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Americas-Cup-Sailing-Sydney-Australia.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

Take the helm, trim the sails, work on the grinders or simply sit back and enjoy the ride as you soak up the atmosphere and sights of spectacular Sydney Harbour.

The America's Cup is the world's oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy and ultimate yachting regatta. Usually the domain of billionaires and elite professional yachtsmen, these amazing yachts offer a remarkable chance to participate in sailing on these grand prix racing machines.

Australia was the first country to break the American hold on this famous old trophy in 1983, a 132 year winning streak that dated back to 1851.

No sailing experience necessary; Sailings daily, 2.5 hour duration

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Blue Mountains and Australia Wildlife Tour

On your vacation, discover the spectacular Blue Mountains and see native wildlife Explore World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, located outside of Sydney, Australia.

Discover the spectacular World Heritage listed Blue Mountains and see native wildlife. Stretching for over one million hectares, the Blue Mountains is an inspiring mix of rainforest, canyons, tall forests and heathlands, truly one of Australia's natural one wonders.

Your first stop is at Echo Point where you can view the famous Three Sisters rock formation and hear the ancient Aboriginal legends of this impressive rock formation.

Visit the Waradah Aboriginal Centre and expreience Aboriginal song, dance, didgeridoo and culture.

Next, arrive at Scenic World where you will have free time to join the optional rides or grab some morning tea and enjoy the amazing views (own expense).

Discover Leura village, a delightful blend of groomed gardens and quaint shops. Enjoy free time to wander the streets of Leura and enjoy a delicious two course cafe style lunch at the Loaves and Dishes.

Next, experience an afternoon encounter at Featherdale Wildlife Park and have your photo taken with a cuddly koala, see kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and cute little penguins. Full Day Tour.

Depart approximately 8:00 AM, return at approximately 5:45 PM.

Upgrade to small group touring available - please inquire

Insider's Tip: Australian Opals

Altmann & Cherny is a family owned jewellery business in Sydney with an international reputation for excellence in opals and is one of the World’s foremost Australian Opal authorities.

Australia is known as the country of origin for this splendid stone with 95% of the world's precious gem opal found exclusively in Australia. The Australian opal displays all the colors of the rainbow; holding a spectrum of colors found in nature. It is these contrasts that make opals a truly fascinating and unique gemstone, with no two opals appearing exactly the same. In the Middle Ages the Romans considered opal a stone that could provide great luck, as it was believed to possess all the virtues of Emeralds, Sapphires and Rubies.

Established in 1948 in hopes of sharing this unique gemstone with the world, they have built a reputation of providing the highest level of quality, service and value for three generations. Their mantra has always been and will continue to be - "Excellence in service, quality and value." So come share in this unique experience to learn more about Australian Opals at Altmann & Cherny!



<u>Altman + Cherny</u>
18 Pitt St., Sydney, NSW 2000 / Ph: 61 (02) 9251 9477

Hours: Monday - Friday: 9:30am - 5:30pm / Saturday & Sunday 10:00am - 4:00pm

Insider's Tip: Hop on the Sydney Explorer bus to explore the city

Experience all the excitement of Sydney, Australia's famous harbour city, and the capital of NSW with the Big Bus Sydney and Bondi Explorer - Sydney's only Hop-On Hop-Off tourist bus service.

<a href="//youtu.be/EIXTcnvZL40" target="_blank"><img src="//abt-aus-images.s3.amazonaws.com/images/Sydney-Explorer-Hop-On-Hop-Off-Sightseeing-Bus.jpg" width="350" height="197" class="alignleft"></a>

The Sydney and Bondi Tours are included with this pass. The Sydney tour features 23 stops and the Bondi tour features 11 stops.

As well as Sydney's glorious harbour and stunning beaches the city offers a multi cultural lifestyle, exuberant festivals and events, a dynamic food scene and a striking cityscape of modern and colonial architecture.

Don't miss a thing aboard this open-top double-decker bus tours with 34 stops in Sydney and Bondi Beach. Plan your own itinerary and visit the landmarks and attractions at your own pace. Buses run frequently so rejoining the tour is easy! Plus, you'll receive a booklet with travel information, detailed maps, discount vouchers and much more!

Be sure to bring your camera to capture all the excitement!

<b>Operates</b>
Daily

<b>Times</b>
- <b>Sydney Tour:</b> 1hr 45min end to end with 23 featured stops
First tour departs Circular Quay at 8:30am. Frequency every 20-30 mins
- <b>Bondi Tour:</b> 1hr 30min end to end with 11 featured stops
First tour departs 9:30am. Frequency every 30 minutes

All services terminate at 7:30pm in peak season (Oct - April) and 6:30pm in off peak season (May - Sept).

<b>Need to Know</b>
- Frequency and tour times very according to season and traffic. Please check with the bud driver on your day to travel to confirm pick up and drop off times.

<b>Inclusions</b>
- 1-Day Hop-on-Hop Off Bus Pass for Sydney Route and Bondi Route with 34 stops including: Circular Quay, Sydney Opera House, Kings Cross, Hyde Park, Maritime Museum, SeaLife Sydney Aquarium, Barangaroo, The Rocks, Australia Museum, Bondi Beach, Rose Bay & More!

<b>Upgrades</b>
Upgrade to a 2-Day Pass and receive a complimentary walking tour of Sydney's laneways, bars, cafes and galleries.

(Day 13) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia, to the Airport.

(Day 13) - International Flight, Sydney to Los Angeles

Depart Sydney from the International Airport and fly to Los Angeles. Note: You will be traveling back across the International Date line so you will gain a day. You actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Australia.