Night view of the Sydney Opera House illuminated alongside the Sydney Harbour Bridge, with reflections shimmering on the harbor water.

Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef

Discover Australia's most iconic treasures, from Sydney's urban brilliance to the Great Barrier Reef's underwater wonders. Begin in the harbor city, where modern landmarks rise between Pacific beaches and ancient sandstone cliffs. Then fly north to tropical Cairns, your gateway to the world's largest living structure, where coral gardens and marine life create nature's most spectacular show.

Itinerary

Day 1:

Fly to Australia

Day 2:

Cross the International Date Line

Day 3:

Welcome to Australia!
  • Meet your Tour Director at the airport
  • Take an excursion to Watson's Bay and Bondi Beach, traveling along Sydney’s coastline for waterfront views, scenic walks, and free time on Australia’s most iconic shoreline
  • Explore Sydney on foot with your Tour Director, passing through Circular Quay, the Royal Botanic Garden, and the central harborfront where ferries, skyscrapers, and the Opera House share the stage

Day 4:

Explore Sydney
  • Walk the Sydney Harbour Bridge, taking in sweeping views of the harbor, skyline, and Opera House from one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks
  • Take a guided tour of the Rocks district, exploring cobbled lanes and historic buildings as you uncover the stories of Sydney’s earliest settlers
  • Visit the Sydney Opera House, stepping inside this architectural masterpiece to learn how it became a symbol of modern Australia and a global center for the performing arts

Day 5:

Sydney
  • Free time or Optional Full day excursion to the Blue Mountains
  • Opt to take a full-day excursion to the Blue Mountains, where forested cliffs, deep valleys, and the famous Three Sisters rock formation showcase one of Australia’s most iconic landscapes. Along the way visit a wildlife sanctuary to see koalas, kangaroos, and other native animals up close

Day 6:

Sydney
  • Take a boat ride across the harbor to Manly, catching views of the Sydney skyline as you head toward surf and sand
  • Explore Manly, a laid-back beach town where surf, shops, and seaside paths frame the perfect coastal escape
  • Free time or Optional Surfing lesson at Manly Beach
  • Opt to take a surfing lesson at Manly Beach, where local instructors help you catch your first wave along one of Sydney’s most iconic stretches of sand

Day 7:

Sydney - Cairns
  • Fly to Cairns
  • Explore Cairns on foot with your Tour Director, from the tropical breezes of the Esplanade to Wharf Street’s harborfront views and the buzzing stalls of the Night Markets

Day 8:

Explore the Great Barrier Reef
  • Take a full-day excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel or relax aboard your vessel as you explore the vibrant coral ecosystem. Lunch is provided on board in lieu of dinner
  • Enjoy lunch onboard in lieu of dinner

Day 9:

Cairns
  • Free time or Optional Full day excursion to Kuranda
  • Opt to take a full-day excursion to Kuranda. Travel by scenic rail or gondola through the rainforest to this hilltop village known for markets, art, and wildlife parks
  • Enjoy a special farewell dinner to celebrate your journey and share a final meal with your group

Day 10:

Depart for home
Map of Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef tour spending four nights in Sydney, Australia, three nights in Cairns, Australia

Inclusions

Hotels

7 overnight stays in hotels with private bathrooms

Entrances

Entrances to all activities denoted as 'visit' on itinerary

Guided sightseeing

Expert, local guides included per itinerary

Tour Director

Full-time logistical and experienced partners with your group 24/7

Farewell Dinner

Special farewell meal on your final night, ensuring a high note to cap off the trip

Emergency Support

24 hour Emergency service, we will be there for you

Meals

Breakfast and dinner daily (unless otherwise noted)

Travel Protection

Included on-tour travel protection with medical, illness and more (maximum age 69)

Airfare

Round-trip airfare on major carriers

Ground Transportation

Comfortable motorcoach and/or public transit provided for all scheduled activities

Price Tour

Departure Date
Gateway

Free Place Ratio
Group Size Estimate
Travel Protection
Optional Excursions
Make Group Private?
Include Tips?
Rewards


Tour Price
$4,898

Tour Fee $5,098*
Early Enrollment Discount $-200+
Total for Students $4,898
Twin Room $455
Total for Adults $5,353
Price Valid Until 10/22/2025
Important Info:
  • *Today’s Tour Fee is only guaranteed once a quote is saved to your Group Leader Tour Hub. Once saved, it will remain valid through 10/22/2025.
  • +A limited-time Early Enrollment Discount has been applied. Restrictions may apply—please speak with a Program Consultant for details.
  • Adult pricing includes a required Twin Room supplement for travelers age 23+
  • Travel Protection plan cost may vary by traveler. Tour Price reflects coverage for a student traveler with group options selected here. Adult travelers or those with additional individual upgrades may receive a higher plan rate.
WHY US? WHY US? WHY US? WHY US? WHY US?
Superior Value

Lowest prices in the industry, with more value from the start. More inclusions, better meals, nicer hotels, fewer fees - your investment goes further with us.

Experience That Reassures

After tens of thousands of student tours, our leadership team knows what matters most: thoughtful planning, smart decisions, lifelong memories and keeping students safe.

The Right Way

We built Blue Dot to be the company we always wished existed - one that listens, adapts, and does right by students, teachers, and our team.

Every journey begins with a conversation. Reach out today.