Tauck World Discovery: Spotlight on AustraliaDay 1 Melbourne, AustraliaArrive Melbourne

Tour begins: 6:00 PM, The Langham Melbourne. A transfer is included from Melbourne Airport to The Langham Melbourne. Your journey begins with a welcome cocktail reception followed by dinner at the hotel.

You'll see a lot of Melbourne on a sightseeing tour of the city, including a guided walking tour to discover the real city (and its amazing coffee) along its distinctive laneways. The rest of the day and evening are yours to spend as you please in Melbourne; enjoy lunch and dinner as you please.

Take a morning private charter flight to the heart of Australia's desert Outback, arriving at Ayers Rock (Uluru) for lunch and an overnight stay at Sails in the Desert in the country's "Red Centre." Discover the timeless beauty and cultural significance of this sacred site, revered by the Anangu people. In the evening, the light of the setting sun bathes the mystical rock with a palette of ever-changing color... and you'll enjoy the natural "show" with canapés and champagne overlooking the monolith. As the desert sky transitions to night, marvel at the blanket of stars above, a breathtaking finale to an extraordinary day.

Aboriginal traditions define life in the Outback, especially at Uluru (Ayers Rock); learn about the "dreamtime" legends associated with this massive monolith on a guided tour this morning. Fly via private charter to Cairns in Queensland, gateway to the amazing Great Barrier Reef. Board the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, taking you over and through the rainforest canopy; disembark in the mountain village of Kuranda. Continue on to Queensland and your resort in Port Douglas, Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Port Douglas - your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, and luxurious lagoon-side relaxation.

Spend a full day exploring one of Earth's most incredible "living" sites, the Great Barrier Reef - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only living structure on Earth visible from the moon. Activity choices include a catamaran cruise to the Agincourt Reef; an adventure boat trip for scuba divers and snorkelers; or a relaxing spa day at the lodge. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and evening at your resort.

Early risers may choose to soar over the Atherton Tablelands on an optional hot air balloon ride* at dawn (an additional charge per person; see pricing details). Experience breathtaking views of the Atherton Tablelands as you glide over lush landscapes, rolling hills, and sprawling farmlands on a peaceful balloon ride - with every gentle drift, enjoy the stunning patchwork of tropical greenery, rivers, and valleys that define this unique Australian countryside. The rest of the day is free to spend as you wish at the resort.

It's all about crocodiles at Hartley's Crocodile Adventures; have a meet and greet with a crocodile and blue tongue lizard and snake... plus visit a private enclosure where you might come across Eastern Grey Kangaroos, Agile Wallabies, Pademelons, Koalas, Wombats and more. You'll also have an opportunity to... attend a feeding presentation... and take an exclusive boat cruise on the lagoon. After lunch, fly to Sydney via private charter for a three-night stay in the city's heart at InterContinental Sydney, in guest rooms overlooking Sydney Harbour.

Begin the day with a visit to one of Australia's iconic sights, the amazing Sydney Opera House, and a private tour.Next, a private cruise on Sydney Harbour, with lunch, is a fabulous way to introduce yourself to this extraordinary city, taking a good look at landmark sites from the water. Sightseeing continues as you view highlights on a city tour, then join us this evening at a farewell reception and dinner.