Australia Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trip Packages

Australia Small Ship Cruise Tours & Trips

533 Australia trips. Tours from 140 tour companies. 299 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

11 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
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Small Ship Cruise
WWF Giants of Antarctica (Ocean Endeavour)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Be joined by a team of naturalists, marine biologists and WWF-Australia scientists and learn how they're conducting cutting-edge research into Antarctica’s great whales with onboard lectures and interactive experiences.
  • Witness an incredible abundance of humpback whales as these serene marine mammals migrate to Antarctica to feed on krill each year. If conditions allow, take Zodiac excursions to get closer to whales spotted by your expert expedition crew.
  • Get the chance to encounter a range of other wildlife like gentoo and chinstrap penguins, fur and elephant seals, albatross and more.
  • Expeditions on the Ocean Endeavour enjoy an enviable ratio of one expedition crew member for every eight passengers, allowing for a higher level of personal service.
  • Benefit from a variety of on-board activities including educational lectures on history, geology, and ecology by the expedition team and enjoy the amenities on board including expedition lounge, restaurant, bar, pool, jacuzzi, library, gym, sun deck, spa facilities and sauna.
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Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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WWF Journey to the Circle and Giants of Antarctica (Ocean Endeavour)
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Antarctic Peninsula, Ushuaia

Highlights

  • Be joined by a team of naturalists, marine biologists and WWF-Australia scientists and learn how they're conducting cutting-edge research into Antarctica’s great whales with onboard lectures and interactive experiences.
  • Take advantage of extra days at the Antarctic Peninsula on this extended expedition. That means more places, more landings and more time to see Antarctica’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.
  • Enjoy daily Zodiac excursions to iconic landing sites, abundant with birdlife and busy penguins, and witness icebergs in a thousand different shades of blue.
  • Experience almost endless daylight in high summer once you are inside the Antarctic Circle. Then, push further south than most Antarctic expeditions venture, exploring the remoteness of this less-visited part of the Antarctic Peninsula.
  • Customise your trip with a wide range of optional activities on top of regular Zodiac excursions. Explore the water by kayak, sign up for a photography masterclass, rejuvenate with onboard yoga and massages or take a refreshing polar plunge.
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Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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Great Barrier Reef Cruises
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Cairns, Cooktown, Great Barrier Reef

Highlights

  • 8-day Great Barrier Reef small ship cruise
  • Visit to historic Cooktown
  • Pelorus Island Beach BBQ

Themes

Birding, Family Friendly, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Sailing, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"We particularly wanted to do this trip because of the abundance of wildlife we expected to encounter and selected this ship because they offered the kayaking experience. Overall, the weather was very good. Most people seemed like minded and were there for the adventurous experience. Accommodations Review They upgraded our cabin and we were very pleased with the amount of space and the amenities in the room. We appreciated the twin windows and being able to see humpbacks diving from our cabin. It was kept very clean and it was a treat to have our bed turned down with chocolates on the pillow each night. Meals Review We liked the variety and the quality of the food. There was always something new to try. The dining room staff was very professional and personable. Crew & Guides Review Solon was our Principal Trip Leader. He was incredibly professional and it seemed like he was constantly working to maximize the encounters with wildlife and scenery, taking advantage of all the weather opportunities and going to places that they don't often go. He worked very closely with the captain who was very accommodating and caring about us having a memorable voyage. Aymie and Andrew were our kayak guides. We went out to kayak 10 different times and were able to get to know both of them well. They worked hard to keep us safe and well informed. They made sure that we didn't miss out on any land excursions. We've had quite a few kayak guides over the years that we've paddled and we loved these two. Marla was the marine biologist aboard the ship. She was very enthusiastic and had a passion for marine mammals that was infectious. We loved listening to her presentations and looked forward to hearing her voice on the PA saying that there was another whale sighting. Colin, the geologist aboard the ship, was very knowledgeable and able to make difficult subjects understandable to the passengers. Itinerary Review The trip far, far, far, far, far, far exceeded our expectations. I had one "far" in the sentence when we left South Georgia Island after seeing 250,000 King Penguins at St. Andrews Point and added the second when we saw blue whales on two different days. The third "far" was added when we saw hundreds of whales for 6 hours along the iceberg, A68a. I added another "far" when we kayaked for over an hour with humpbacks all around and another "far" when minke whales were all around the kayaks the next day. The last "far" was added the day we didn't paddle since a leopard seal was all around the kayaks and then an orca came close. We had so many incredible experiences that we could never experience all of them in the same trip again. The guides told us that the close encounters that we had didn't happen very often and that we were very lucky that they all happened on our trip. The only thing that we didn't like was portions of the Drake Passage when it was a tad rough, but that experience gives us something to talk about. Transportation Review We made our transportation arrangements through another travel agency. Traveler Advice Make sure that you take sea sickness meds. Take advantage of every opportunity to see wildlife."

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The Kimberley - Cruising to the Australian Outback
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

King George Falls, Mitchell Falls

Highlights

  • Cross Cambridge Gulf and sail into Western Australian waters.
  • Discover the mighty King George aboard Explorer, a specially designed excursion vessel
  • Visit Tranquil Bay for beach walking and exploration.
  • Join the expedition leader on a walk across salt flats to view the wreckage of a US Air Force DC3, which crash landed on the beach during WWII.
  • After anchoring in Winyalken Bay travel ashore aboard Explorer to the maze of natural sandstone caves known as Hathaway's Hideaway
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Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Small Ship Cruise, Festivals & Special Events

What travelers are saying

"We particularly wanted to do this trip because of the abundance of wildlife we expected to encounter and selected this ship because they offered the kayaking experience. Overall, the weather was very good. Most people seemed like minded and were there for the adventurous experience. Accommodations Review They upgraded our cabin and we were very pleased with the amount of space and the amenities in the room. We appreciated the twin windows and being able to see humpbacks diving from our cabin. It was kept very clean and it was a treat to have our bed turned down with chocolates on the pillow each night. Meals Review We liked the variety and the quality of the food. There was always something new to try. The dining room staff was very professional and personable. Crew & Guides Review Solon was our Principal Trip Leader. He was incredibly professional and it seemed like he was constantly working to maximize the encounters with wildlife and scenery, taking advantage of all the weather opportunities and going to places that they don't often go. He worked very closely with the captain who was very accommodating and caring about us having a memorable voyage. Aymie and Andrew were our kayak guides. We went out to kayak 10 different times and were able to get to know both of them well. They worked hard to keep us safe and well informed. They made sure that we didn't miss out on any land excursions. We've had quite a few kayak guides over the years that we've paddled and we loved these two. Marla was the marine biologist aboard the ship. She was very enthusiastic and had a passion for marine mammals that was infectious. We loved listening to her presentations and looked forward to hearing her voice on the PA saying that there was another whale sighting. Colin, the geologist aboard the ship, was very knowledgeable and able to make difficult subjects understandable to the passengers. Itinerary Review The trip far, far, far, far, far, far exceeded our expectations. I had one "far" in the sentence when we left South Georgia Island after seeing 250,000 King Penguins at St. Andrews Point and added the second when we saw blue whales on two different days. The third "far" was added when we saw hundreds of whales for 6 hours along the iceberg, A68a. I added another "far" when we kayaked for over an hour with humpbacks all around and another "far" when minke whales were all around the kayaks the next day. The last "far" was added the day we didn't paddle since a leopard seal was all around the kayaks and then an orca came close. We had so many incredible experiences that we could never experience all of them in the same trip again. The guides told us that the close encounters that we had didn't happen very often and that we were very lucky that they all happened on our trip. The only thing that we didn't like was portions of the Drake Passage when it was a tad rough, but that experience gives us something to talk about. Transportation Review We made our transportation arrangements through another travel agency. Traveler Advice Make sure that you take sea sickness meds. Take advantage of every opportunity to see wildlife."

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7 Day Cod Hole, Coral Sea & Ribbon Reefs Liveaboard
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4.7/5 Excellent
35 reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Cairns, Great Barrier Reef

Highlights

  • Join Spirit of Freedom 7 days and nights diving the two diverse eco systems of the Great Barrier Reef and the Coral Sea.
  • Your cruise will include the Ribbon Reefs, the 'Cod Hole' a chance to explore Lizard Island, Osprey and possibly Bougainville Reef, Coral Sea.
  • The first part of your tour will include the magical Ribbon Reefs, the 'Cod Hole', and a chance to explore Lizard Island.
  • On the second part of the cruise we will travel to Osprey Reef inn the Coral Sea to dive its sheer walls and experience the shark dive at 'North Horn'.

Themes

High Adventure, Small Ship Cruise, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"Incredible experience with these guys. Organisation was on point Made for experience divers and divers with low level certs like myself. instructors are offered for each dive if you feel more comfortable doing so. The dive sites are well picked and extremely well explained and briefed by boat manager. The rooms were comfy, the food was excellent and the staff was just awesome. Would recommend to anyone skilled diver or people who want to do their open water or other certs. Great experience"

Trip dates & details
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3 Day Cod Hole & Ribbon Reefs Liveaboard
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4.7/5 Excellent
35 reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Cairns, Great Barrier Reef

Highlights

  • Cruise to the Great Barrier Reef
  • Dive the Cod Hole
  • We may visit today include Challenger Bay and Pixie Wall
  • Opportunity to go ashore and explore Lizard Island

Themes

50 plus, High Adventure, Small Ship Cruise, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"Incredible experience with these guys. Organisation was on point Made for experience divers and divers with low level certs like myself. instructors are offered for each dive if you feel more comfortable doing so. The dive sites are well picked and extremely well explained and briefed by boat manager. The rooms were comfy, the food was excellent and the staff was just awesome. Would recommend to anyone skilled diver or people who want to do their open water or other certs. Great experience"

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Solomon Islands - Wreck Diving Expedition
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4.3/5 Great
6 reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Brisbane

Themes

Small Ship Cruise, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"Dive Adventures are so awsome they helped me organise an amazing island trip in the Solomon islands, was one of the best scuba trips iv ever done , the DA team where so helpful with flights and all bookings involved with the trip, now I only book scuba trips with them �"

Trip dates & details
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Australia Great Barrier Reef Singles Cruise
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4.2/5 Great
6 reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Brisbane, Cairns, Great Barrier Reef, Sydney

Highlights

  • Visit Sydney, Newcastle and Brisbane
  • Explore Green Island’s underwater world aboard a Semi-Submarine.
  • Visit Rainforestation Nature Park and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
  • Explore Fort Scratchley
  • Visit Sydney Opera House and Sea Life Sydney Aquarium
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Themes

50 plus, Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Singles Travel, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"The most unprofessional tour. The tour guide was nasty and made us walk miles because she didn't want to pay for transportation. It was not luxurious in the least bit, I would've been better off just going with friends. Save yourself from a horrible trip. Singles International is very professional and a better bet."

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Coastal Wilds Of Tasmania Cruise - Premium Adventure
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4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Tasmania

Highlights

  • Spend two full days exploring the wilderness areas in Port Davey and Bathurst Harbour
  • Hike to Wineglass Bay and The Hazards in Freycinet National Park
  • Learn about the history of Maria Island as a penal colony
  • Visit Port Arthur, a Unesco World Heritage site
  • Admire dramatic 985ft (300m) tall coastal cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula
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Themes

Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

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Generous cancellation

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The Complete South Pacific  - 2024
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4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
With a history that spans back to 1918, they have unparalleled expertise in the guided tour industry and can cater to all types of travelers.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Adelaide, Auckland, Cairns, Christchurch, Hobart, Melbourne, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Rotorua, Sydney, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Wellington

Highlights

  • At sunset, enjoy a champagne toast while gazing at Uluru.
  • Taste world-class wines during a private tour of Chateau Tanunda in the Barossa Valley.
  • Learn about the endangered Tasmanian Devil and the conservation efforts aimed at its survival.
  • See koalas in their natural setting during a stop at a koala conservation center.
  • Explore the Great Barrier Reef from a high-speed catamaran and choose from a collection of included activities.
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Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"It was a wonderful trip and experience! We are still sorting all the pictures and memories about it, and some of them I would like to share with you - read my diary about this trip! My Diary about our trip to South Dakota shorturl.at/efoX1"

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South Australia, Melbourne & the Great Ocean Road
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4.8/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve partnered with well-known names like National Geographic and the Jane Goodall Institute to offer unique experiences unavailable elsewhere.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy

Visits

Adelaide, Great Ocean Road, Melbourne

Highlights

  • Experience melbourne’s colourful laneways
  • Travel along the great ocean road and look out for the 12 apostles
  • Hike in grampians national park

Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"We spent two wonderful weeks touring several of the best destinations in Portugal & Spain with a group of 16 people. Our guide (Fredy) was from Spain and intimately familiar with the region, including its rich history, attractions, and food/beverages. The tour was well-paced using a combinations of private vehicles (small buses and cabs), trains, and an airplane ride as well as a fair amount of walking to get around these two beautiful countries. We extended our stay in Lisbon to see more attractions and took a side trip to Fatima, Obidos, and Nazare that was also excellent. Would have liked to have a bit more time in a couple of the cities, but we'll just have to plan another trip!"

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Australia in 10 days - Cities & Sights of Eastern Oz - Superior
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By Exoticca
preferred
4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
Although they’re cheaper than other brands, they still make sure all parts of the trip, like hotels, meet a high minimum standard.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Very Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Bar, Blue Mountains, Cairns, Great Ocean Road, Melbourne, Sydney

Highlights

  • Cairns
  • Melbourne
  • Sydney

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"The trip was well laid out. Tour guides were friendly and knowledgeable. The only complaint is some of our travel documents that were sent out were not in English. If your sending documents out correspondence should be in both the native language and the language of the people the correspondence to. Other than that a great first time experience."

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Outback Safari
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By Trafalgar
preferred
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Group Tour
Why we love them
Their travelers enjoy 24/7 travel expertise and dedicated service throughout the trips - everything is taken care of.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"Egypt is the most amazing destination. it was a trip of a lifetime. Trafalgar made sure our tour saw all the most important places, and with the most knowledgeable Egyptologist who kept us safe, engaged, all while having alot of fun! I was concerned before I left home, but quickly my fears were laid to rest. We were met by Mo at the airport, who seamlessly got us to our destination. The hotel, cruise, food, stateroom, staff and entertainment were fantastic. And what a value! I already miss Hany Attia, Lionel Richie in the M/S miriam souvenir shop, and Mo, as well as our new Habibi from the tour. What a blast. I dont think i could ever top this vacation Thank you again. It was a trip of a lifetime."

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11 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected. We are displaying some similar trips.
My selections:
Small Ship Cruise

Australia Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
299  Reviews
See all Australia tour reviews
Excellent
224
Great
42
Average
5
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
C

Christopher

Aug 2018

Written on

I highly recommend Intrepid tours.

The two Intrepid treks I’ve been on (Peru and Papua New Guinea) are run by local people, and they took me to local places. I learnt something about locals’ lives; an...

S

Stefan

Jul 2018

Written on

Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!!

This trip was probably the hardest thing I have ever done, but the feeling of accomplishment once arriving at Owers' Corner can't be beaten. The porters are amazing ...

E

Emma

Oct 2015

Written on

Doing the Kokoda track was an amazing

Doing the Kokoda track was an amazing experience that I would recommend to anyone and there were many good things about the intrepid group however there were a few t...

K

Kylie

Sep 2015

Written on

The Kokoda Track trip was fantastic. It

The Kokoda Track trip was fantastic. It was very different to any other trip previously taken. The history and local knowledge was fabulous and the small trekking gr...

T

Trusted Customer

Aug 2023

Written on

The Northwest Passage - M/V Sylvia Earle

Beechy island, seeingpolar bears . Greenland .

Write a Review

Australia Tour Selection Trips

  • Prepare for your Australia adventure with these essential travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.

  • Australia's sun can be intense, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from UV rays.

  • Carry a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of fluids, especially if you're exploring the Outback or participating in outdoor activities.

  • Admire Australia's unique wildlife from a safe distance and never feed or approach wild animals.

  • Australia's weather can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and pack layers for varying conditions.

  • Be aware of dangerous creatures like snakes and spiders, particularly in rural and bush areas.

  • Heed warning signs at beaches and national parks and swim only in designated areas.

  • If driving, familiarize yourself with local road rules and be cautious, especially in remote areas.

  • Stay updated on local news and travel advisories, and register with your embassy or consulate.

  • Learn about and respect Australia's Indigenous heritage, traditions, and sacred sites.

  • Keep your phone charged and have emergency contact numbers, including local emergency services, at your tips.

Additional details

Different Ways to Tour Australia 

Explore Australia through various means of travel, each offering a unique perspective on this vast and diverse land. 

  • Cruises: Embark on a scenic cruise along Australia's coastline, exploring destinations like the Great Barrier Reef and Sydney Harbour. Companies like Princess Cruises offer itineraries that visit iconic ports such as Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns.
  • Driving Tours: Hit the open road on a self-drive adventure, traversing iconic routes like the Great Ocean Road or the Red Centre Way. Rent a car from reputable companies and explore at your own pace, stopping to admire natural wonders like Uluru or stunning coastal vistas.
  • Train Journeys: Experience the beauty of Australia's landscapes from the comfort of a train carriage. The Indian Pacific train journey traverses the continent from Sydney to Perth, offering luxurious accommodations and breathtaking views of the Outback. Alternatively, explore the lush rainforests of Queensland aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway, winding through the UNESCO-listed Barron Gorge National Park.
Souvenirs from Australia

Buying souvenirs from a destination allows us to take a piece of our vacation home. While Australia may appear similar to the U.S. or England, this vast country has its own unique features you may want to take home with you. 

  1. Opals: Australia is known for having some of the best opals in the world. They are of high quality and make for a great gift. 
  2. Tim Tams: A true Australian treat, Tim Tams are chocolate-covered biscuits often paired with Australia's favorite beverage, coffee. 
  3. Vegemite: One of Australia's more interesting food choices, Vegemite is a thick black spread used for toast. It is an acquired taste, and those who have never tasted it may find it tart and tangy.
  4. Boomerangs: We all have seen the movies of Aussies throwing boomerangs, but they are one of the country's most famous icons and a pretty neat object to take home with you.
  5. UGG Boots: The most famous souvenir is sheepskin UGG boots worn around the country. They are primarily used indoors in Australia as slippers and not for outdoors, but wear switched when they gained popularity in other parts of the world.

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