25 DAY FULLY INCLUSIVE TOUR
TUESDAY 10TH AUGUST TO FRIDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER
From the former frontier outpost of Darwin, now a bustling cosmopolitan city in Australia's far north, to the city of Fremantle, known for its maritime history, architectural heritage and the arts in the south. Explore the 12,000 kilometres that is the West Coast of Australia from Darwin to Perth.
Start this amazing experience with one of the world's most iconic rail journeys, the transcontinental adventure that is The Ghan and this tour has it all.
Tick this amazing experience off your bucket list.
TOUR MAP
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Darwin City Inc. Australian Aviation Heritage Museum, Adelaide River War Cemetery, Litchfield National Park
(Florence Falls, Wangi Falls), Kakadu National Park - Nourlangie Rock, Katherine Gorge, Victoria River - Timber Creek, Kununurra, Mirima National Park (Hidden Valley), Optional Bungle Bungles Flight, Zebra Mine, Argyle Diamond Mine Tour, Yiyili Aboriginal Community, Pearl Luggers Museum, Cable Beach, Willie Creek Pearl Farm, Eighty Mile Beach, Cape Range National Park, Carnarvon, Monkey Mia - Dolphins, Kalbarri National Park, Nambung National Park - Pinnacles and New Norcia Museum.
CRUISES
Spirit of Darwin Harbour Dinner Cruise, Jumping Croc Cruise on Adelaide River, Yellow Water Sunset Cruise - Kakadu, Katherine Gorge Cruise, Ord River Cruise & Wetlands Cruise, Geikie Gorge Cruise - Fitzroy Crossing, Willie Creek Pearl Farm Cruise, Yardie Creek Cruise - Exmouth and Glass Bottom Boat Cruise (Ningaloo Reef) - Coral Bay.
MULTIPLE NIGHT STAYS
3 nights in Darwin, Kununurra and Broome
2 nights in Katherine, Kalbarri and Exmouth
RAIL (GHAN THERE OPTION)
The Legendary Ghan
PRICE
FLY THERE OPTION
TUESDAY 10TH AUGUST TO FRIDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER, 2021
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Twin Share Room First Tour: Twin Share Room Repeat Traveller 2 - 10 Tours: Twin Share Room Repeat Traveller 11 - 20 Tours: Twin Share Room Repeat Traveller 21+ Tours: Single Room Supplement: Deposit: |
$12,275 per person $12,175 per person $12,125 per person $12,075 per person $2,325 per person $200 per person upon booking |
GHAN THERE OPTION
SATURDAY 7TH AUGUST TO FRIDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER, 2021
SATURDAY 7TH AUGUST TO FRIDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER, 2021
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Twin Share Room First Tour:
Twin Share Room Repeat Traveller 2 - 10 Tours: Twin Share Room Repeat Traveller 11 - 20 Tours: Twin Share Room Repeat Traveller 21+ Tours: Single Room Supplement: Deposit: |
$TBA per person
$TBA per person $TBA per person $TBA per person $TBA per person $200 per person upon booking |
The option to start the tour flying from Melbourne to Adelaide, then aboard the Ghan from Adelaide to Darwin, can be included with home pick up and return also.
Availability is very limited, so please enquire early to avoid disappointment.
Availability is very limited, so please enquire early to avoid disappointment.
O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours will match single travellers who wish to twin share, with another single traveller of the same gender.
However, if this is not possible, you shall be provided with single accommodation at the twin share fare (no additional cost).
However, if this is not possible, you shall be provided with single accommodation at the twin share fare (no additional cost).
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ITINERARY
day 1a: saturday 7th AUGUST, 2021
MELBOURNE TO ADELAIDE
No need for a taxi – we’re chauffeur driven from home to Melbourne Airport for our flight to Adelaide. On arrival, we enjoy some local sightseeing before arriving at our city hotel.
OVERNIGHT: Intercontinental, ADELAIDE
No need for a taxi – we’re chauffeur driven from home to Melbourne Airport for our flight to Adelaide. On arrival, we enjoy some local sightseeing before arriving at our city hotel.
OVERNIGHT: Intercontinental, ADELAIDE
day 2a: sunday 8tH AUGUST, 2021
ADELAIDE TO ALICE SPRINGS
We’ll meet our coach late morning for the transfer to the Parklands Railway Station where we board The Legendary Ghan.
OVERNIGHT: The Legendary Ghan
We’ll meet our coach late morning for the transfer to the Parklands Railway Station where we board The Legendary Ghan.
OVERNIGHT: The Legendary Ghan
DAY 3A: monday 9TH AUGUST, 2021
ALICE SPRINGS TO KATHERINE
We arrive in Alice Springs in the afternoon with the opportunity to choose one of many whistle stop tours available. These tours are organised by Great Southern Rail (The Ghan) and are included in your fare; some other optional tours are at your own expense. Up to date information and prices will be available on board The Ghan.
OVERNIGHT: The Legendary Ghan
We arrive in Alice Springs in the afternoon with the opportunity to choose one of many whistle stop tours available. These tours are organised by Great Southern Rail (The Ghan) and are included in your fare; some other optional tours are at your own expense. Up to date information and prices will be available on board The Ghan.
OVERNIGHT: The Legendary Ghan
DAY 4A: tuesday 10th AUGUST, 2021
KATHERINE TO DARWIN
Today we arrive in Katherine. There are a series of unique tours available including the Katherine Gorge, with most of these tours included in your fare. There are some other optional tours at your own expense. Up to date information and prices will be available on board The Ghan. Please note: Your tour with O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours includes the Katherine Gorge Cruise on Sunday 15th August, 2021. We suggest you choose one of the other sightseeing options for today. We arrive in Darwin late afternoon and transfer to our accommodation.
OVERNIGHT: DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN
Today we arrive in Katherine. There are a series of unique tours available including the Katherine Gorge, with most of these tours included in your fare. There are some other optional tours at your own expense. Up to date information and prices will be available on board The Ghan. Please note: Your tour with O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours includes the Katherine Gorge Cruise on Sunday 15th August, 2021. We suggest you choose one of the other sightseeing options for today. We arrive in Darwin late afternoon and transfer to our accommodation.
OVERNIGHT: DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN
DAY 1: tuesday 10th AUGUST, 2021
MELBOURNE TO DARWIN
Welcome to our fabulous tour! We’re collected from home this morning by our chauffeur service and transferred to Melbourne Airport to join the QANTAS flight to Perth then our connecting flight to Darwin. At Darwin Airport we are met by our O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours crew. Our first stop is a visit to the Aviation Museum - here we can see an impressive presentation of aircraft and displays including the massive Boeing B52 Bomber, one of only two on display in the world outside the USA. It’s now time to check into our next three nights accommodation, settle in and freshen up. This evening, we’ll join with the group arriving on The Ghan for dinner.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement / Refreshments on flight
OVERNIGHT: DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN
Welcome to our fabulous tour! We’re collected from home this morning by our chauffeur service and transferred to Melbourne Airport to join the QANTAS flight to Perth then our connecting flight to Darwin. At Darwin Airport we are met by our O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours crew. Our first stop is a visit to the Aviation Museum - here we can see an impressive presentation of aircraft and displays including the massive Boeing B52 Bomber, one of only two on display in the world outside the USA. It’s now time to check into our next three nights accommodation, settle in and freshen up. This evening, we’ll join with the group arriving on The Ghan for dinner.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement / Refreshments on flight
OVERNIGHT: DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN
DAY 2: wednesday 11TH AUGUST, 2021
DARWIN SIGHTSEEING
Many people aren’t aware of the importance of Darwin during World War II so we’ll look at the city as it is today and also learn from a local expert about the involvement and history of the bombings of Darwin. We conclude the tour at Stokes Wharf with a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility. This unique facility highlights the magnificent service provided to Outback Australia by the RFDS and also showcases the Bombing of Darwin through Virtual Reality headsets – an amazing experience! We have a few hours to relax and enjoy the resort facilities before we transfer to Stokes Hill Wharf for our fantastic dinner cruise on Darwin Harbour. What a wonderful way to start our tour, as we see the Darwin skyline at sunset.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN
Many people aren’t aware of the importance of Darwin during World War II so we’ll look at the city as it is today and also learn from a local expert about the involvement and history of the bombings of Darwin. We conclude the tour at Stokes Wharf with a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility. This unique facility highlights the magnificent service provided to Outback Australia by the RFDS and also showcases the Bombing of Darwin through Virtual Reality headsets – an amazing experience! We have a few hours to relax and enjoy the resort facilities before we transfer to Stokes Hill Wharf for our fantastic dinner cruise on Darwin Harbour. What a wonderful way to start our tour, as we see the Darwin skyline at sunset.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN
DAY 3: thursday 12TH AUGUST, 2021
LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK
This morning, we travel south to the small township of Adelaide River - about 110kms from Darwin. We make a brief stop at Adelaide River War Cemetery, where 432 servicemen and 63 civilians, all of whom died as a result of Japanese bombing raids, are buried. From here we enter Litchfield National Park. The 65,000ha National Park with its untouched rainforests, hot springs, magnificent waterfalls and stunning scenery has gained the reputation as the jewel of the Northern Territory’s crown. We stop to see the Magnetic Anthills and the magnificent Florence Falls from the lookout platform. We enjoy lunch at the Litchfield Cafe and visit nearby Wangi Falls where there is time for a refreshing dip! - so bring your togs! Returning to Darwin, we have some free time to pack up our bags before watching another sunset as we enjoy dinner at Cullen Bay. It won’t be a late night as we begin our road journey tomorrow.
OVERNIGHT: DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN
This morning, we travel south to the small township of Adelaide River - about 110kms from Darwin. We make a brief stop at Adelaide River War Cemetery, where 432 servicemen and 63 civilians, all of whom died as a result of Japanese bombing raids, are buried. From here we enter Litchfield National Park. The 65,000ha National Park with its untouched rainforests, hot springs, magnificent waterfalls and stunning scenery has gained the reputation as the jewel of the Northern Territory’s crown. We stop to see the Magnetic Anthills and the magnificent Florence Falls from the lookout platform. We enjoy lunch at the Litchfield Cafe and visit nearby Wangi Falls where there is time for a refreshing dip! - so bring your togs! Returning to Darwin, we have some free time to pack up our bags before watching another sunset as we enjoy dinner at Cullen Bay. It won’t be a late night as we begin our road journey tomorrow.
OVERNIGHT: DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade, DARWIN
DAY 4: friday 13th AUGUST, 2021
DARWIN TO KAKADU
With an early start, we say farewell to Darwin and travel the Arnhem Land Highway to World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park. Our first visit on our way to Kakadu is the Jumping Croc Cruise - don’t forget to bring your camera! Further along, we enter the wonderland of Kakadu National Park. This afternoon we visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre before joining our magical 2 hour Yellow Water Sunset Cruise. Nowhere else will you see such a concentration of so many species of diverse wildlife than here, including Brolgas, Egrets, Jabiru and hopefully some crocs!
OVERNIGHT: Kakadu Lodge Cooinda, KAKADU
With an early start, we say farewell to Darwin and travel the Arnhem Land Highway to World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park. Our first visit on our way to Kakadu is the Jumping Croc Cruise - don’t forget to bring your camera! Further along, we enter the wonderland of Kakadu National Park. This afternoon we visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre before joining our magical 2 hour Yellow Water Sunset Cruise. Nowhere else will you see such a concentration of so many species of diverse wildlife than here, including Brolgas, Egrets, Jabiru and hopefully some crocs!
OVERNIGHT: Kakadu Lodge Cooinda, KAKADU
DAY 5: saturday 14tH AUGUST, 2021
KAKADU TO KATHERINE
We begin our day’s touring with a visit to Nourlangie Rock and its ancient Aboriginal rock art. On leaving the National Park, we stop for lunch at Pine Creek before our journey south to Katherine. We have plenty of time to settle into our accommodation - perhaps a swim in the pool is called for!
OVERNIGHT: Knotts Crossing Resort, KATHERINE
We begin our day’s touring with a visit to Nourlangie Rock and its ancient Aboriginal rock art. On leaving the National Park, we stop for lunch at Pine Creek before our journey south to Katherine. We have plenty of time to settle into our accommodation - perhaps a swim in the pool is called for!
OVERNIGHT: Knotts Crossing Resort, KATHERINE
DAY 6: sunday 15TH AUGUST, 2021
KATHERINE GORGE
A visit to Katherine would not be complete without a cruise through Katherine Gorge. This morning, we take the two-hour cruise through the southern edge of Nitmiluk National Park. Sheer walls of sandstone dotted with ancient Aboriginal rock art surround the crystal waters of the Katherine River where freshwater crocodiles can be seen along the banks. Back in Katherine, there’s time to purchase lunch and take a look at the township. This afternoon we have a choice - relax at the resort or come with us to unwind in the therapeutic crystal clear waters of the Katherine Hot Springs (32 C). The main pool has wheel chair access, stainless steel rails and the walls have been formed out of rock.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: Knotts Crossing Resort, KATHERINE
A visit to Katherine would not be complete without a cruise through Katherine Gorge. This morning, we take the two-hour cruise through the southern edge of Nitmiluk National Park. Sheer walls of sandstone dotted with ancient Aboriginal rock art surround the crystal waters of the Katherine River where freshwater crocodiles can be seen along the banks. Back in Katherine, there’s time to purchase lunch and take a look at the township. This afternoon we have a choice - relax at the resort or come with us to unwind in the therapeutic crystal clear waters of the Katherine Hot Springs (32 C). The main pool has wheel chair access, stainless steel rails and the walls have been formed out of rock.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: Knotts Crossing Resort, KATHERINE
DAY 7: monday 16TH AUGUST, 2021
KATHERINE TO KUNUNURRA
Today we travel west calling at Victoria River and Timber Creek, crossing into Western Australia to arrive at Kununurra. The town was established as the residential and administrative centre of the Ord River Scheme - a huge irrigation scheme that was developed in the 1970’s. We take a look at the town centre, the Diversion Dam and Ivanhoe Crossing. We also visit Mirima National Park, often called Hidden Valley. The sandstone formations here resemble the domes of the famous Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park), which is why they are sometimes called Mini Bungle Bungles - it’s a perfect opportunity to get an “on ground” experience! We then check into our next three night’s accommodation.
OVERNIGHT: The Kimberley Grande, KUNUNURRA
Today we travel west calling at Victoria River and Timber Creek, crossing into Western Australia to arrive at Kununurra. The town was established as the residential and administrative centre of the Ord River Scheme - a huge irrigation scheme that was developed in the 1970’s. We take a look at the town centre, the Diversion Dam and Ivanhoe Crossing. We also visit Mirima National Park, often called Hidden Valley. The sandstone formations here resemble the domes of the famous Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park), which is why they are sometimes called Mini Bungle Bungles - it’s a perfect opportunity to get an “on ground” experience! We then check into our next three night’s accommodation.
OVERNIGHT: The Kimberley Grande, KUNUNURRA
DAY 8: tuesday 17th AUGUST, 2021
KUNUNURRA AND ORD RIVER
This morning we have the opportunity to take a scenic 2 hour flight over the Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park). This flight is optional and is an additional cost. Highly recommended!! Not flying? Then you can enjoy a sleep in! Mid-morning, when the flyers return, we drive towards Lake Argyle, stopping enroute to visit the Argyle Homestead Museum. The famous pioneering Durack family home became known far and wide as one of the social gathering places of the East Kimberley. The homestead was originally built in 1895 by the Durack family on Argyle Downs Station (now mostly submerged by the lake). During the early 1970’s the homestead was removed before Lake Argyle began to fill in. Dismantled like a giant jigsaw, the homestead was carefully rebuilt in its current location and now lives on as a museum dedicated to the pioneering spirit of the Durack Family. We travel on to Lake Argyle where we enjoy lunch at the Tourist Village. One of the many highlights of our tour to East Kimberley will be our cruise this afternoon with Lake Argyle Cruises. Take in the untamed landscape of the magnificent Carr Boyd Ranges we cruise through some of the lakes 90 islands and inlets. Hopefully we’ll see Rock Wallabies, Crocodiles, Wallaroos (Euros) and Birdlife, plus a Catfish feeding frenzy and the amazing spitting Archer Fish. We stay out on the water in an ideal setting to catch the last golden rays of the Kimberley sun – the first of many! We return to Kununurra for a slightly later dinner.
OVERNIGHT: The Kimberley Grande, KUNUNURRA
This morning we have the opportunity to take a scenic 2 hour flight over the Bungle Bungles (Purnululu National Park). This flight is optional and is an additional cost. Highly recommended!! Not flying? Then you can enjoy a sleep in! Mid-morning, when the flyers return, we drive towards Lake Argyle, stopping enroute to visit the Argyle Homestead Museum. The famous pioneering Durack family home became known far and wide as one of the social gathering places of the East Kimberley. The homestead was originally built in 1895 by the Durack family on Argyle Downs Station (now mostly submerged by the lake). During the early 1970’s the homestead was removed before Lake Argyle began to fill in. Dismantled like a giant jigsaw, the homestead was carefully rebuilt in its current location and now lives on as a museum dedicated to the pioneering spirit of the Durack Family. We travel on to Lake Argyle where we enjoy lunch at the Tourist Village. One of the many highlights of our tour to East Kimberley will be our cruise this afternoon with Lake Argyle Cruises. Take in the untamed landscape of the magnificent Carr Boyd Ranges we cruise through some of the lakes 90 islands and inlets. Hopefully we’ll see Rock Wallabies, Crocodiles, Wallaroos (Euros) and Birdlife, plus a Catfish feeding frenzy and the amazing spitting Archer Fish. We stay out on the water in an ideal setting to catch the last golden rays of the Kimberley sun – the first of many! We return to Kununurra for a slightly later dinner.
OVERNIGHT: The Kimberley Grande, KUNUNURRA
DAY 9: wednesday 18th AUGUST, 2021
ZEBRA ROCK MINE
The Kimberley is one highlight after another and today is no exception as we head to the Zebra Mine. Lunch will be freshly caught Silver Cobbler and they say the lunch hits a 10 on the “fish ‘n chip-odometer”!! We’ll take a tour of the mine then enjoy our afternoon tea. It’s now time to board our Wetlands Cruise; the wetlands are situated on the eastern side of Lake Argyle where the many creeks feed into the dam. We’re sure to see a huge variety of birds, Ospreys, brolgas, cormorants, ibis, egrets, darters, corellas, herons, whistling ducks, magpie geese, sea eagles – just to name a few! We might see a few Johnston freshwater crocodiles too. How does some champagne and nibbles sound as we watch the sun set over Lake Argyle? After dinner we head back to Kununurra – it will be quite late, but what a fantastic day!
OVERNIGHT: The Kimberley Grande, KUNUNURRA
The Kimberley is one highlight after another and today is no exception as we head to the Zebra Mine. Lunch will be freshly caught Silver Cobbler and they say the lunch hits a 10 on the “fish ‘n chip-odometer”!! We’ll take a tour of the mine then enjoy our afternoon tea. It’s now time to board our Wetlands Cruise; the wetlands are situated on the eastern side of Lake Argyle where the many creeks feed into the dam. We’re sure to see a huge variety of birds, Ospreys, brolgas, cormorants, ibis, egrets, darters, corellas, herons, whistling ducks, magpie geese, sea eagles – just to name a few! We might see a few Johnston freshwater crocodiles too. How does some champagne and nibbles sound as we watch the sun set over Lake Argyle? After dinner we head back to Kununurra – it will be quite late, but what a fantastic day!
OVERNIGHT: The Kimberley Grande, KUNUNURRA
DAY 11: friday 20th AUGUST, 2021
HALLS CREEK TO FITZROY CROSSING
As we continue west through the magnificent red mountain scenery of the Kimberley’s, we have a brief stop at the Yiyili Aboriginal Community to view their gallery. After our break, we continue to Fitzroy Crossing where we enjoy lunch at the Lodge. This afternoon travel out to nearby Geikie Gorge where we take a cruise through this spectacular landscape. The Fitzroy River has carved its path through the fossil "Barrier Reef" formed 300 million years ago, resulting in mountainous cliffs and breath-taking scenery.
OVERNIGHT: Fitzroy River Lodge, FITZROY CROSSING
As we continue west through the magnificent red mountain scenery of the Kimberley’s, we have a brief stop at the Yiyili Aboriginal Community to view their gallery. After our break, we continue to Fitzroy Crossing where we enjoy lunch at the Lodge. This afternoon travel out to nearby Geikie Gorge where we take a cruise through this spectacular landscape. The Fitzroy River has carved its path through the fossil "Barrier Reef" formed 300 million years ago, resulting in mountainous cliffs and breath-taking scenery.
OVERNIGHT: Fitzroy River Lodge, FITZROY CROSSING
DAY 12: saturday 21st AUGUST, 2021
FITZROY CROSSING TO BROOME
Our destination today is Broome, but on the way, we see the famous Boab Prison Tree, 7 miles south of Derby, which was used in the early days as an overnight lock up for prisoners. Have your photo taken in front of the longest Cattle Trough in the Southern Hemisphere. Back on the highway again, we can purchase our lunch at the Willare Bridge Roadhouse before the last leg of our journey into Broome. Broome is situated on the coast at the southern tip of the Kimberley region. It is bounded by wide sandy beaches and turquoise water and enjoys a warm climate with plenty of sunshine. The discovery of rich pearling grounds off the coast in the 1880s led to the foundation of Broome township in 1883. By 1910 Broome was the world’s leading pearling centre. We check into our next three nights accommodation.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: Oaks Resort, BROOME
Our destination today is Broome, but on the way, we see the famous Boab Prison Tree, 7 miles south of Derby, which was used in the early days as an overnight lock up for prisoners. Have your photo taken in front of the longest Cattle Trough in the Southern Hemisphere. Back on the highway again, we can purchase our lunch at the Willare Bridge Roadhouse before the last leg of our journey into Broome. Broome is situated on the coast at the southern tip of the Kimberley region. It is bounded by wide sandy beaches and turquoise water and enjoys a warm climate with plenty of sunshine. The discovery of rich pearling grounds off the coast in the 1880s led to the foundation of Broome township in 1883. By 1910 Broome was the world’s leading pearling centre. We check into our next three nights accommodation.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: Oaks Resort, BROOME
DAY 13: sunday 22nd AUGUST, 2021
BROOME SIGHTSEEING
This morning we tour this fascinating town. We’ll see the historic Gantheume Point, the Broome Wharf, the Japanese Cemetery and of course China Town. We’ll also visit the Pearl Luggers Museum where we learn the history of pearl diving dating back 140 years. This afternoon, we have some time to relax or swim etc. before making our way to Cable Beach for the sunset and dinner.
OVERNIGHT: Oaks Resort, BROOME
This morning we tour this fascinating town. We’ll see the historic Gantheume Point, the Broome Wharf, the Japanese Cemetery and of course China Town. We’ll also visit the Pearl Luggers Museum where we learn the history of pearl diving dating back 140 years. This afternoon, we have some time to relax or swim etc. before making our way to Cable Beach for the sunset and dinner.
OVERNIGHT: Oaks Resort, BROOME
DAY 14: monday 23rd AUGUST, 2021
WILLIE CREEK PEARL FARM
We’re off to visit the Willie Creek Pearl Farm, to learn about pearling techniques and view the pearl panels suspended in the creek. We can gain a comprehensive insight into how the world’s finest pearls are produced, with the process of cultured pearling, including the seeding of a live oyster shell. Lunch is included and we also enjoy a cruise aboard the Willie Wanderer. There’ll be more time to relax back at the hotel before dinner this evening.
OVERNIGHT: Oaks Resort, BROOME
We’re off to visit the Willie Creek Pearl Farm, to learn about pearling techniques and view the pearl panels suspended in the creek. We can gain a comprehensive insight into how the world’s finest pearls are produced, with the process of cultured pearling, including the seeding of a live oyster shell. Lunch is included and we also enjoy a cruise aboard the Willie Wanderer. There’ll be more time to relax back at the hotel before dinner this evening.
OVERNIGHT: Oaks Resort, BROOME
DAY 15: tuesday 24th AUGUST, 2021
ROEBUCK BAY TO PORT HEDLAND
Departing the Roebuck Bay district today, we travel the West Coast along the Great Sandy Desert to Port Hedland, the seaboard outlet for the giant Newman Mine. We drive via Sandfire and deviate to the coast for a view and a walk on Eighty Mile Beach, maybe even a swim.
OVERNIGHT: Hospitality Inn, PORT HEDLAND
Departing the Roebuck Bay district today, we travel the West Coast along the Great Sandy Desert to Port Hedland, the seaboard outlet for the giant Newman Mine. We drive via Sandfire and deviate to the coast for a view and a walk on Eighty Mile Beach, maybe even a swim.
OVERNIGHT: Hospitality Inn, PORT HEDLAND
DAY 16:wednesday 25TH AUGUST, 2021
PORT HEDLAND TO KARRATHA
This morning, we have a look at Port Hedland with the help of a local guide. Tracing the cultural heritage and history of this most unusual town, our tour will follow the footsteps of the first European settlers by visiting the town’s heritage sites. We then have time to buy lunch before our afternoon journey to Karratha.
OVERNIGHT: Karratha International Hotel, KARRATHA
This morning, we have a look at Port Hedland with the help of a local guide. Tracing the cultural heritage and history of this most unusual town, our tour will follow the footsteps of the first European settlers by visiting the town’s heritage sites. We then have time to buy lunch before our afternoon journey to Karratha.
OVERNIGHT: Karratha International Hotel, KARRATHA
DAY 17: thursday 26TH AUGUST, 2021
KARRATHA TO EXMOUTH
In nearby Dampier we visit the North West Shelf Visitor Centre. The centre will give us a good explanation of the gas extraction, liquefaction and exporting process on the Burrup Peninsula production. Passing through the Pilbara we make our way south west towards the North West Cape. As we travel along the North West Coastal Highway we have Ningaloo Reef running along the coast to our right. We pass Giralia Station – a large (265,000 hectare) and very isolated farm which runs approximately 25,000 sheep, before arriving into Exmouth, famous for its annual fishing competition and location of a jointly operated Australian/USA Naval Communication Station.
OVERNIGHT: Potshot Hotel Resort, EXMOUTH
In nearby Dampier we visit the North West Shelf Visitor Centre. The centre will give us a good explanation of the gas extraction, liquefaction and exporting process on the Burrup Peninsula production. Passing through the Pilbara we make our way south west towards the North West Cape. As we travel along the North West Coastal Highway we have Ningaloo Reef running along the coast to our right. We pass Giralia Station – a large (265,000 hectare) and very isolated farm which runs approximately 25,000 sheep, before arriving into Exmouth, famous for its annual fishing competition and location of a jointly operated Australian/USA Naval Communication Station.
OVERNIGHT: Potshot Hotel Resort, EXMOUTH
DAY 18: friday 27th AUGUST, 2021
EXMOUTH
We have an easy day planned today. We tour Exmouth and its surrounds and view the Harold Holt Base, the Vlaming Lighthouse (where we usually spot some whales), Exmouth Beach and the Communications Towers (one taller than the Empire State Building). Also today we visit Yardie Creek Station which is now a part of the Cape Range National Park. We enjoy a unique and informative cruise on Yardie Creek with a park ranger. We return to the Potshot Resort for some free time to swim, relax etc. from mid-afternoon.
OVERNIGHT: Potshot Hotel Resort, EXMOUTH
We have an easy day planned today. We tour Exmouth and its surrounds and view the Harold Holt Base, the Vlaming Lighthouse (where we usually spot some whales), Exmouth Beach and the Communications Towers (one taller than the Empire State Building). Also today we visit Yardie Creek Station which is now a part of the Cape Range National Park. We enjoy a unique and informative cruise on Yardie Creek with a park ranger. We return to the Potshot Resort for some free time to swim, relax etc. from mid-afternoon.
OVERNIGHT: Potshot Hotel Resort, EXMOUTH
DAY 19: saturday 28th AUGUST, 2021
EXMOUTH TO CARNARVON
We travel down to Coral Bay for a one-hour cruise on the beautiful Ningaloo Coral Reef aboard the Sub Sea Explorer, a semi-submersible vessel with windows on the side of the hull providing a stunning 360 degree view underwater! This afternoon we continue south over the Gascoyne River, or the ‘Upside Down River’ and across rich agricultural country to Carnarvon. We will also pause at the Tropic of Capricorn to walk among the wildflowers.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: Carnarvon Motel, CARNARVON
We travel down to Coral Bay for a one-hour cruise on the beautiful Ningaloo Coral Reef aboard the Sub Sea Explorer, a semi-submersible vessel with windows on the side of the hull providing a stunning 360 degree view underwater! This afternoon we continue south over the Gascoyne River, or the ‘Upside Down River’ and across rich agricultural country to Carnarvon. We will also pause at the Tropic of Capricorn to walk among the wildflowers.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: Carnarvon Motel, CARNARVON
DAY 20: SUNDAY 29TH AUGUST, 2021
CARNARVON TO MONKEY MIA
Today’s travels take us onto the Peron Peninsula and Hamelin Pool. Here, we see a colony of Stromatolites (fossil micro-organisms) that date back to the beginning of life on earth as well as visit the Telegraph Station. We have lunch here then continue to our overnight accommodation in Monkey Mia.
OVERNIGHT: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, MONKEY MIA
Today’s travels take us onto the Peron Peninsula and Hamelin Pool. Here, we see a colony of Stromatolites (fossil micro-organisms) that date back to the beginning of life on earth as well as visit the Telegraph Station. We have lunch here then continue to our overnight accommodation in Monkey Mia.
OVERNIGHT: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, MONKEY MIA
DAY 21: MONDAY 30TH AUGUST, 2021
MONKEY MIA TO KALBARRI
Hopefully this morning we can experience some close encounters with the dolphins as we stand in the clear waters and entertain them. This is one of the few places in the world where wild dolphins come to shore regularly to be hand fed. Later this morning, we drive to Denham before re-joining the North West Coastal Highway to travel south over the Murchison River. We divert from the Highway through Kalbarri National Park to picturesque Kalbarri, our home for two nights.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: The Edge Resort, KALBARRI
Hopefully this morning we can experience some close encounters with the dolphins as we stand in the clear waters and entertain them. This is one of the few places in the world where wild dolphins come to shore regularly to be hand fed. Later this morning, we drive to Denham before re-joining the North West Coastal Highway to travel south over the Murchison River. We divert from the Highway through Kalbarri National Park to picturesque Kalbarri, our home for two nights.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: The Edge Resort, KALBARRI
DAY 22: tuesday 31st august, 2021
KALBARRI NATIONAL PARK
A highlight today is our visit to Kalbarri National Park. We take a walk to “Nature’s Window” and after morning tea, another timeless and spectacular view from the “Z Bend”. We drive to “The Bluff” for views of the treacherous coastline and over the Kalbarri Township. This afternoon, we visit Rainbow Jungle where we can wander through landscaped tropical gardens, past waterfalls, fountains, gargoyles and lily ponds. We will enjoy close encounters with black, red and yellow local white tailed Cockatoos and don’t be surprised if you hear them say “hello”! We then have the rest of the afternoon to relax at the resort.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: The Edge Resort, KALBARRI
A highlight today is our visit to Kalbarri National Park. We take a walk to “Nature’s Window” and after morning tea, another timeless and spectacular view from the “Z Bend”. We drive to “The Bluff” for views of the treacherous coastline and over the Kalbarri Township. This afternoon, we visit Rainbow Jungle where we can wander through landscaped tropical gardens, past waterfalls, fountains, gargoyles and lily ponds. We will enjoy close encounters with black, red and yellow local white tailed Cockatoos and don’t be surprised if you hear them say “hello”! We then have the rest of the afternoon to relax at the resort.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement
OVERNIGHT: The Edge Resort, KALBARRI
DAY 23: wednesday 1st september, 2021
KALBARRI TO CERVANTES
An early start this morning, taking the coastal road south we stop for magnificent views along the cliffs before re-joining the highway. On our arrival in Geraldton, we take a look at the local sights including the port area and the St. Francis Xavier Cathedral and the HMAS Sydney Memorial. We continue south through Dongara stopping briefly for a photo opportunity of the Greenough Trees - this area is characterised by river red gums which have given up defying the prevailing winds and bent themselves almost parallel to the earth in an attempt to escape the salt and the wind blowing off the Indian Ocean. From here, we travel along the coast to the town of Cervantes. Cervantes is the access point to the truly remarkable Nambung National Park. This afternoon, we visit the Park - home to Western Australia’s Pinnacles. Like a moon scene, strange looking limestone pillars, some 2 metres tall. We then return to Cervantes for dinner and our overnight accommodation.
OVERNIGHT: Cervantes Pinnacles Motel, CERVANTES
An early start this morning, taking the coastal road south we stop for magnificent views along the cliffs before re-joining the highway. On our arrival in Geraldton, we take a look at the local sights including the port area and the St. Francis Xavier Cathedral and the HMAS Sydney Memorial. We continue south through Dongara stopping briefly for a photo opportunity of the Greenough Trees - this area is characterised by river red gums which have given up defying the prevailing winds and bent themselves almost parallel to the earth in an attempt to escape the salt and the wind blowing off the Indian Ocean. From here, we travel along the coast to the town of Cervantes. Cervantes is the access point to the truly remarkable Nambung National Park. This afternoon, we visit the Park - home to Western Australia’s Pinnacles. Like a moon scene, strange looking limestone pillars, some 2 metres tall. We then return to Cervantes for dinner and our overnight accommodation.
OVERNIGHT: Cervantes Pinnacles Motel, CERVANTES
DAY 24: THURSDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER, 2021
CERVANTES TO FREMANTLE
Today’s highlight is our detour to New Norcia – a settlement established and still owned by the Benedictine Monks. The incongruity of majestic Spanish architecture set in the midst of the Australian bush has to be seen to be appreciated. We visit the Museum and the New Norcia Hotel. This afternoon we make our way to Fremantle to our accommodation for the night.
OVERNIGHT: Esplanade Hotel, FREMANTLE
Today’s highlight is our detour to New Norcia – a settlement established and still owned by the Benedictine Monks. The incongruity of majestic Spanish architecture set in the midst of the Australian bush has to be seen to be appreciated. We visit the Museum and the New Norcia Hotel. This afternoon we make our way to Fremantle to our accommodation for the night.
OVERNIGHT: Esplanade Hotel, FREMANTLE
DAY 25: friday 3rd SEPTEMBER, 2021
PERTH TO MELBOURNE
After breakfast we board the coach for our transfer to Perth Domestic Airport for our flight to Melbourne. As always our chauffeurs will be awaiting our arrival for transfer to our homes. We trust you arrive home safely with memories of a fascinating and rewarding tour.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement / Refreshments on flight
After breakfast we board the coach for our transfer to Perth Domestic Airport for our flight to Melbourne. As always our chauffeurs will be awaiting our arrival for transfer to our homes. We trust you arrive home safely with memories of a fascinating and rewarding tour.
Lunch at own expense and arrangement / Refreshments on flight
TOUR INCLUSIONS
Complimentary chauffeur driven transfers
Pick up from and return to your home from Greater Melbourne, Bendigo, Torquay, Ballarat, Geelong, the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas, selected areas of Gippsland and Phillip Island.
Luxury Touring Coaches
Our full size 3 axle luxury coaches have only 32-36 passenger seats allowing you even more personal space and huge leg room. Our coaches are fitted with comfortable reclining seats with aisle arm rests, foot rests, seat belts, panoramic windows with blinds, refrigerator for passenger use, Climate control air conditioning & Road Cam monitors which display the road ahead in real time. Each coach also has a second door for easier entry and exit and touchless hand sanitizer dispensers at each entry to help keep everyone safe. The coaches have full air suspension delivering a smooth and quiet ride which also allows us to lower the coach closer to the ground, making boarding and disembarking even easier.
Fly There Option
Economy flights Melbourne to Darwin via Perth and Perth to Melbourne.
¡ Ghan There Option. Economy flight from Melbourne to Adelaide. Gold Service Accommodation abord the Ghan, all-inclusive dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant, off train excursions and outback experiences, access to the Outback Explorer Lounge for beverages and socialising, all-inclusive Australian wines, beers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages aboard The Ghan, Adelaide to Darwin.
Tour Director
Dedicated O’Shannessy’s Quality Tours coach crew (tour directors) on board to ensure your travel experience is memorable.
Best Available Quality Accommodation
Ensuite motel accommodation each night.
Attractions
All tours and interest venues as per itinerary.
Meals
Full cooked breakfasts, morning tea and two course restaurant dinners daily, and most lunches - 8 lunches at your own expense as per itinerary.
No Hidden Extras
O'Shannessy's Quality Tours are fully inclusive.
“... As one of the largest and most diverse states in the world, Western Australia is never short of unique and extraordinary holiday experiences....”
westernaustralia.com.au
PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION POLICY
Balance due on invoice approximately 45 days prior to departure.
Deposit is fully refundable until 46 days prior to departure date.
Prices include GST and all taxes.
Cancellation 45 to 8 days before tour departure date, 20% Refund of Tour Cost
Cancellation within 7 days of tour departure date, No Refund
On or after tour date departure, No Refund
Travel Insurance is not compulsory, however we highly recommended you take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurer at the time you pay for your tour.