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UNFORGETTABLE

CAPE YORK &

OUTBACK WILDERNESS ADVENTURES QLD, SA, NT & WA 2016

& TOUR OPERATOR

2014

BEST RIVER CRUISE & TOUR OPERATOR

2015

Welcome to the Outback After more than 50 years that I have been fortunate enough to own and operate APT, you may be surprised to know that I still long for exploring this amazing world we live in and meeting the local characters along the way. The one destination that has always been, and always will be, in my top three picks is this amazing country of ours, which I am fortunate to call home. For 2016, we are once again excited and proud to offer you a range of fantastic itineraries, including some Rob, Geoff and Lou McGeary

great new ones too. Whether you have never visited the Aussie Outback, or you have been visiting longer than me, you are guaranteed to fall in love with these special parts of Australia.

In 1964, I took my first group into the Outback. It was group of students from St Leonard’s College on a camping trip to Central Australia. In those days, there were only dirt roads with hardly any accommodation along the way. As I was driving, it made me wonder how the first settlers and early explorers survived this unforgiving land. Since then, access has become a lot easier, however the Outback remains practically untouched, filled with that same spirit and sense of adventure. From that one school excursion, it has been humbling to reflect upon how our Australian Outback program has evolved over the past 50 years. Whether it’s standing on the tip of mainland Australia at Cape York, walking along the salt flats of Lake Eyre, cruising the wetlands of the Top End or venturing through the remote Kimberley, we have been fortunate to have shared these special places with so many of our guests, and are honoured to continue to showcase the very best of Outback Australia.

CONTENTS 4 7 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22

Find Your Unforgettable in the Outback The APT Difference APT’s Iconic Outback – Unforgettable Inclusions Chose Your Dream Adventure The Australian Experts Celebrating 50 Years of Outback Touring Signature Invitations – Queensland & South Australia Signature Invitations – Northern Territory & Western Australia Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve Ambient Dining

Main image: journey to the heart of the Red Centre and discover the iconic Uluru Front cover image: explore the pristine wilderness of Cape York

24 26 28 30 32 33

Stations Hotels & Resorts – Queensland & South Australia Stations Hotels & Resorts – Northern Territory & Western Australia APT Wilderness Lodges Great Barrier Reef Cruising APT Club SuperDeals 2016

QUEENSLAND 34 Cooktown & Cape York 38 Cape York with Reef Cruise 40 Essence of the Outback 42 Essence of the Outback with Reef Cruise

11 15 13 16

Days Days Days Days

Watch the sun go down as you cruise to a remote island on the Great Barrier Reef. Immerse yourself in Australia’s Indigenous heritage in Kakadu and the Tiwi Islands. Walk under Kangaroo Island’s Remarkable Rocks to greet a fur-seal. Stand where three states meet at Cameron Corner. Or venture back to the Red Centre and climb to the top of Kings Canyon, from where you can peer down into the Garden of Eden. These are the unforgettable moments that create a holiday of a lifetime. As you may already know, we have been committed to protecting the environment for many years now, demonstrated by our Advanced Eco Accreditation. Continuing in this vein, I am pleased to announce our new partnership with Australia Zoo, allowing exclusive access to the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve on our Cape York tours. We look forward to welcoming you to this protected part of Australia, where you can learn first-hand about their incredible research and conservation programs. As I tell my friends, your travels are not complete until you properly experience Australia’s Outback for yourself. By land or reef, let your next Australian story start here. Warm regards,

Geoff McGeary OAM APT Company Owner

44 Savannah Explorer 46 Savannah Explorer with Reef Cruise

12 Days 15 Days

SOUTH AUSTRALIA 48 Kangaroo Island, Coober Pedy & Lake Eyre 50 The Best of the Corner Country

10 Days 12 Days

NORTHERN TERRITORY 52 Kakadu & Tiwi Explorer 54 Central Australian Discovery

10 Days 16 Days

WESTERN AUSTRALIA 58 Pilbara & Ningaloo Reef 9 Days 60 West Coast Explorer 13 Days 62 Kimberley, Kakadu & Arnhem Land Explorer 16 Days 64 Kimberley Complete 15 Days GENERAL INFORMATION 66 Deck Plans 67 Frequently Asked Questions 68 Pre & Post Accommodation 69 Touring Extensions 70 General Information & Conditions

3

Find Your Unforgettable in

the Outback

Pages 34-39

Pages 40-47

Cape York & The Torres Strait

Outback Queensland

Outback South Australia

Journey to the tip of Cape York through

Vast and unspoilt, Outback Queensland

Incredible history, geological wonders and

the Daintree Rainforest, the only place

embodies the cultural heritage and

hidden treasures await in South Australia.

in the world where two World Heritage-

pioneering spirit of Australia. Lose yourself

Explore the remarkable Kangaroo Island

listed areas meet. Gaze out at the azure

in a true oasis at Lawn Hill National Park.

and experience the underground town of

waters of the Torres Strait, where hundreds

Imagine what life was like for the early

Coober Pedy. See the landscapes that

of islands are scattered between the tip of

settlers in Longreach at the Stockman’s

inspired artists in Flinders Ranges National

Cape York and Papua New Guinea. Soak

Hall of Fame. And at Carnarvon Gorge,

Park. Walk on the salt flats of Lake Eyre,

up the unique culture of Thursday Island

be welcomed by towering sandstone

drive the Birdsville Track and be delighted

and discover WWII history on Horn Island.

formations and Aboriginal rock art.

by famous wines of the Barossa Valley.

Main image: travel to the edge of Lake Eyre and walk along the dazzling salt flats

44

Pages 48-51

www.kimberleywilderness.com.au

Dramatic beauty Real adventure Outback touring

Pages 52-57

Pages 58-61

Pages 62-65

The Northern Territory

The West Coast

The Kimberley

Known for its natural wonders and rich

There’s so much to discover along Western

Discover stories of adventure in the

Aboriginal history, explore the Red Centre

Australia’s World Heritage-listed Coral

untouched wilderness of Australia’s last

Way, including Alice Springs, Kings Canyon

Coast. The seascapes of Ningaloo Reef

frontier, where fiery red landscapes and

and the iconic Uluru. In the Top End, explore

are unmissable – snorkel just off the beach

emerald flora are set off against cobalt

Australia’s largest national park, Kakadu.

to see ancient coral gardens and sea turtles.

skies. Explore secluded gorges that hide

Ancient rock art sites speak of the region’s

Witness the famous Monkey Mia dolphins of

ancient Aboriginal art, welcoming

heritage and the wildlife encounters on offer

Shark Bay, visit the Pinnacles of Kalbarri

waterholes and palm-filled oases, and get

are superb. Cruise the iconic Katherine

National Park and admire the wildflowers

up close to the majestic beehive domes of

Gorge and explore the Tiwi Islands.

that carpet the land in a riot of colour.

the Bungle Bungle Range.

5

& VE I EW S N LU C EX

& VE I EW S N LU C EX

Karijini National Park

Purnululu National Park

Tiwi Islands

Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve

Witness spectacular natural beauty as you explore secluded gorges.

Explore the wonders of this World Heritage-listed National Park.

This prehistoric oasis is home to unique wildlife and a rich Indigenous culture.

Explore the wonders of this private wetland conservation property, only with APT.

Tiwi Islands Melville Island Wildman Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Wilderness Lodge Lodge East Alligator River Darwin Cannon Hill Kakadu National Park

King

Mitchell Falls Edward King Cooinda Roper Wilderness River George Litchfield River Nitmiluk River National Park Lodge National Park GULF El Questro Katherine Limmen Ngukurr River Limmen River C A R P E N Wyndham National Lorella Springs Ord River Drysdale Park Katherine Kununurra River Station Caranbirini Conserva Home a ri Prince Regent River Victo y Daly Cape Crawford w Valley H Lake Argyle Bell Gorge Waters Leichhardt Bungle Durack Wilderness Lodge River Falls Bungle Derby Windjana Wilderness Lawn Hill Gorge NT Lodge National Park Broome Purnululu Geikie Riversleigh Gorge National Park Tunnel World Heritage Barkly Fossil Site Creek Halls Creek Homestead Eighty Mile Beach Fitzroy River Fitzroy Tennant Creek Camooweal Crossing Port Hedland Devils Marbles

The Pilbara See the mining town of Newman, surrounded by the Opthalmia Range.

Sealed Road 4WD Track Scenic Flight Cruise APT Wilderness Lodges

Karratha Dampier

Marble Bar

West MacDonnell National Park Mereenie Loop Road

Fortescue River

Exmouth Turquoise Bay

Watarrka National Park

Karijini Tom National Newman Price Park

Cape Range National Park

Uluru

WA

Tr o p i c o f C a p r i c o r Alice Springs

Kings Canyon Erldunda Birdsville

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Carnarvon Gascoyne River

Monkey Mia

NIN

GALOO

REE

F

Millstream-Chichester National Park

Coral Bay Ningaloo World Heritage-listed Marine Park

Steve Irwin Wi

Birdsville Track

Lake Eyre National Park

SA

Shark Bay

Wooleen Station

William Creek

od Tr nad a c att a k

O

Coober Pedy

Kalbarri National Park

EW

N

Lake Torrens

Kalbarri

Marree

Wilpena Glendambo Woomera Pound

Geraldton The Pinnacles

Lake Gairdner

Nambung National Park

Port Augusta Barossa Valley

Perth

Port Wakefield Adelaide Kangaroo Island

Uluru See the ever-changing colours of this treasured national cultural icon.

Remarkable Rocks

EW N

EW

N

West Coast

Kings Canyon

Snorkel close to the shore at Ningaloo Reef and meet the dolphins of Monkey Mia.

Discover the awe-inspiring sandstone formations during a rim walk.

6

Kangaroo Island

Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre

Discover the picturesque landscapes, plethora of wildlife and fine local produce.

Enjoy a spectacular included scenic flight and walk over the vast salt flats.

Ga N

Flind Nat

The APT Difference Cape York Peninsula

Book With Confidence

Cape Tribulation

Travel to the northernmost tip of the Australian mainland.

See where the lush Daintree National Park meets the Great Barrier Reef.

As Australia’s leading travel company, APT is still owned

Thursday Island Horn Island Punsand Bay Fruit Bat Falls

ildlife Reserve Weipa

and run by the McGeary family. APT is the true expert in

Jardine River

the Outback and Australia’s most trusted operator.

Bramwell Station Moreton Telegraph Station

Celebrating 50 Years in the Outback

Jardine River National Park

Archer River

Wenlock River

Mungkan Kandju National Park

Coen Lakefield

APT is proud to celebrate 50 unforgettable years of touring in outback Australia. See pages 14-15 for more details.

National Park

Cooktown Lotus Bird Lodge Cape F OF Laura Tribulation N TA R I A Daintree River

Number One in Australia

Daintree National Park

Voted Best Domestic Tour Operator in the 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 National Travel G

Industry Awards, more people choose APT for

RE AT

Australia than any other premium tour operator.

G

ation Reserve Cairns Port Douglas Karumba Atherton Tablelands Normanton Gulflander Train Undara Hinchinbrook Island Savannah Georgetown Critters Way Camp Cobbold Flinders Gorge River Cloncurry McKinlay Mt Isa

Fully Inclusive & Guaranteed Pricing

R

BA

E

T

IE

The best accommodation, meals and all transfers

R

D

Sightseeing, port charges, park and cruise fees

I V

Winton

I I N

Longreach

Small Group Journeys

G

Carnarvon Gorge

Roma

With no more than 20 passengers on every land adventure,

E N G R A

Carnarvon National Park

Cooper Creek

APT Signature Invitations

EF

D

Emerald

RE

Lark Quarry

Our prices cover everything as detailed within, including:

RR

A

n

you will enjoy a more personalised experience.

Expert Driver-Guides Benefit from the largest, most knowledgeable and

QLD

Strzelecki Track

Innamincka

Toowoomba

Brisbane

experienced team in the Outback.

Cameron Corner

Custom-Designed 4WD Vehicles

ammon Ranges National Park

Tibooburra Arkaroola Milparinka

Built specifically to explore the rugged terrain in comfort.

Lake Frome

ders Ranges tional Park

88 Years Australian Family-Owned

Peace Of Mind

Broken Hill Scotia

NSW

For $75 per person*, you can purchase the added comfort of

Mungo National Park

knowing your deposit, less any third party fees, can be held

Mildura Renmark

and used toward a new APT booking if you need to cancel

Murray River

before final payment is due. *See pages 70-71 for details.

Longreach

VIC

APT is a proud member of the AFTA Travel

Delve into Australia’s fascinating pioneering history at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame.

Accreditation Scheme (ATAS).

N EW

When you travel with APT, we welcome

you to join the APT Club, (see page 32).

Activity Level Tours contain a variety of walks:

TAS

Easy Paced – contains easy walks

Birdsville

Carnarvon Gorge

Visit this fascinating town located on the edge of the Simpson Desert.

Visit this amazing gorge filled with towering sandstone formations and unique wildlife.

Moderate – contains mainly easy with some moderate walks

THE APT DIFFERENCE

Active – contains some longer, more challenging walks 7

APT’s Iconic Outback – Enjoy the ultimate great Australian Outback experience with APT. Small Group Journeys GUARANTEED

MAXIMUM OF 20 GUESTS

PS

SM

20

ED

G

With groups of no more than 20 people on all 4WD land adventures, you are assured of an intimate and GUESTS personalised experience. With local Aboriginal guides AL U L GRO joining you on some excursions, you will get to see the Outback through the eyes of its custodians and learn about the fascinating history, fauna and flora of the region. AN AR TE U MAX.

INCLUDED EXPERT DRIVER-GUIDES Benefit from the largest, most knowledgeable, experienced and passionate team in the Outback. Additionally, on all Cape York journeys, you’ll enjoy the services of a dedicated Tour Director.

INCLUDED CUSTOMDESIGNED 4WD VEHICLES Our specially engineered vehicles have an impeccable reliability record for traversing the world’s roughest terrain while providing the utmost comfort.

ignature Invitations INCLUDED

NEW & EXCLUSIVE STEVE IRWIN WILDERNESS RESERVE Guided by an Australia Zoo ranger, enjoy private access to this conservation park, which is off-limits to the general public.

NEW FOR 2016 INCLUDED KANGAROO ISLAND

BIRDSVILLE TRACK

Native bushland, unique wildlife, pristine beaches and outstanding local produce from the farm gate to the cellar door, a Kangaroo Island experience in South Australia is like no other.

Travel along this famous 4WD track through some of the country’s most arid land. Stop at Lake Eyre and walk on the salt flats, before reaching the iconic Birdsville Hotel.

EXCLUSIVE

Meet owners David and Frances of this amazing property made famous by ABC’s Australian Story, who have famously de-stocked the property.


INCLUDED

With APT, you’ll travel to the northernmost tip of Australia in comfort and style. The experience of standing on the tip of the Cape York Peninsula will be one you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

APT EXCLUSIVE WOOLEEN STATION

8

CAPE YORK PENINSULA

INCLUDED

INCLUDED

NEW & EXCLUSIVE TIWI ISLANDS GOOSE CREEK CRUISE Embark on a relaxing cruise along Goose Creek and discover a plethora of unique wildlife in the Tiwi Islands.

Unforgettable Inclusions Travel with the experts and see the very best of our epic country. New & Exclusive Charters! Great Barrier Reef Cruising EXCLUSIVE CORAL EXPEDITIONS II Purpose-built for the Great Barrier Reef, APT is proud to exclusively charter this recently refurbished boutique ship, offering a spectacular cruise along this natural marine wonderland.

YOUR CRUISING EXPERIENCE

EXCLUSIVE

APT has designed this itinerary exclusively for you. Enjoy snorkelling and diving on the reef, as well as sunset drinks and canapés on secluded sand bars.

Resorts & Outback Stations INCLUDED

SHANGRI-LA HOTEL THE MARINA, CAIRNS Experience the lush comfort of this five-star resort set in the heart of tropical Cairns. Luxurious rooms and marina views await.

INCLUDED

NEW & EXCLUSIVE ECO BEACH RESORT At this luxurious resort only one hour south of Broome, surrender to the stunning white sands and pristine waters of Eco Beach.

INCLUDED

NEW FOR 2016 SAILS IN THE DESERT The luxury of Sails in the Desert complements the sheer natural beauty of Uluru, featuring a gumtree-lined swimming pool.

APT EXCLUSIVE SHERATON MIRAGE PORT DOUGLAS RESORT Relax in a Deluxe Lagoon View Room at this famous resort, set upon Four Mile Beach.

INCLUDED

NEW & EXCLUSIVE KINGS CANYON WILDERNESS LODGE Set in a private area of Kings Creek Station, among the Desert Oak trees, the lodge gives you a unique Outback experience.

INCLUDED

NEW FOR 2016 CARNARVON GORGE WILDERNESS LODGE With an array of active wildlife to see up close, enjoy a bush holiday in style, staying in a spectacular safari-style cabin.

INCLUDED

APT EXCLUSIVE CLARE VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB

NEW FOR 2016 AURORA OZONE HOTEL KANGAROO ISLAND

Stay in the heart of the Clare Valley wine region. At the hotel’s Corners Restaurant & Bar, sample superb wines and fine local produce.

Stay on the foreshore with sublime views overlooking stunning Nepean Bay in an Executive Sea View Room.

APT’S ICONIC OUTBACK – UNFORGETTABLE INCLUSIONS

INCLUDED

EXCLUSIVE

9

Choose Your

11 Day Cooktown & Cape York 15 Day Cape York with Reef Cruise Thursday Island 1 Horn Island Punsand Bay 2 (GOCY11) (GOCYCE15)

QUEENSLAND

Fruit Bat Falls

Thursday Island 1

Old Telegraph Track

Horn Island

Wenlock River

2

Punsand Bay Fruit Bat Falls Jardine Old River STEVE IRWIN Telegraph Jardine River WILDLIFE RESERVE Track National Park Wenlock Bramwell River 1 Station Weipa 1

Weipa 1 Sealed Road 4WD Track Cruise/Ferry QANTAS Flight No. of nights stay


Litchfield National Park

ah Way

NT 1 Cooktown

Atherton Cape Crawford Karumba Tablelands Cairns Normanton 1 1 Gulflander Leichhardt Falls Train Undara Lawn Hill National Park

Bloomfield Track

Riversleigh

Cape Tribulation

Daintree River

World Heritage Barkly Fossil Site 1 Daintree National Park 1 Homestead

2

Flinders River

Sava nn Way ah

QLD

Cairns 1 Fitzroy Island

Thetford Reef Sudbury Cay Gilbey Reef

Parachilna

Flinders Ranges National Park

Port Augusta 1

Undara Volcanic

1 Clare Valley Barossa Valley

Port Wakefield

QLD

Adelaide 1 Kangaroo Island

Wheeler Island Hinchinbrook Island

Woomera

Croydon 1 National Park Cobbold Gorge

Camooweal

3

16 Day Central Australian Discovery (GODA16)

VIC

2

pages 46-47

Coral Pelorus Island Expeditions II

Flinders Chase National Park

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Ngukurr

Caranbirini Conservation Reserve

Kings Canyon 2 Uluru 2 Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

NT

2 Alice Springs

Port Hedland

1

QLD

Karratha Dampier 1

Mereenie Loop Road


William Creek

Coober Pedy 1

SA

O

od n Tr ad a c att k a

Lake Torrens

Fortescue River


1 Marree

2

Wilpena Pound 2

Gammon Ranges National Park Flinders Ranges National Park

Clare Valley Adelaide 11

VIC

10

Eighty Mile Beach

1 Barkly Homestead

Tennant Creek Devils Marbles West MacDonnell National Park

Broome 1

Nitmiluk National Park

Cape Crawford 1

WA

pages 48-49

9 Day Pilbara & Ningaloo Reef (GOPE9)

Darwin 1 Katherine 1

NSW

Gammon Ranges National Park

Lake Gairdner

1

QLD

2 Marree

Lake Torrens

Glendambo

2 Lorella Springs

Cox River

Lakefield National Park

Lotus 1 Bird Lodge Laura

Limmen o f C a r p e n t a r i a National Park

Savann

Coen

Peninsula Development Road

Gulf

Limmen River

Katherine 1 Katherine Mataranka River

EF

Station

Archer River

RE

d Tr na d a c a tt a k

1 Bramwell

eipa 1


William Creek o

1

R

Coober Pedy 2

Darwin

IE

Jardine River

pages 38-39

10 Day Kangaroo Island, Coober Pedy & Lake Eyre (GOKLE10) SA


Cairns 2

O

Old Telegraph Track

QLD

3

NT

Horn Island nsand Bay 2

Wenlock River

Bloomfield Track

Cape Tribulation 1 Daintree Mossman Gorge National Park Port Douglas 1


ay Island 1

Fruit Bat Falls

RR

EF

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

pages 34-37

1 Cooktown

Daintree River

Wheeler Island

RE


Lakefield National

Park Lotus 1 Bird Lodge Laura


Hinchinbrook Island

Cairns 1

Coen


BA

R

Mossman Gorge Port Douglas 1

Bloomfield Track

Cape Tribulation 1 Daintree National Park


AT

IE Bloomfield Track

Cape Tribulation

1 Daintree National Park


1 Cooktown

RE

RR

15 Day Savannah Explorer with Reef Cruise (GOCKCE15R)

QLD

BA

Jardine River

AT

2 Punsand Bay

1 Cooktown

Daintree River

Moreton Telegraph Station

Archer River


Daintree River

QLD

1 Bramwell Station

Weipa 1

G

RE

to Cairns

Seisia



Wenlock River

Coen


Coen


Thursday Island 1 Horn Island

Punsand Bay 2 Fruit Bat Falls Jardine Old River STEVE IRWIN Telegraph Jardine River WILDLIFE RESERVE Track National Park

Station


G



1 Bramwell

Archer River

Archer River


Jardine River



NSW

Exmouth 2 Turquoise Bay

Cape Range National Park

MillstreamChichester National Park

2 Karijini National Park

Marble Bar

WA

1 Newman

Ningaloo Reef

pages 54-57

pages 58-59

Dream Adventure

13 Day Essence of the Outback Thursday Island 1 Horn Island (GOCQ13) Punsand Bay 2 Fruit Bat Falls

Gulf of Carpentaria

Old Telegraph Track

Cairns Karumba 1 1 Normanton Burke & Willis Georgetown Roadhouse

Station

Burke & Willis Roadhouse

Mt Isa 2

Roma

Wheeler Island

Toowoomba 1

Brisbane

Hinchinbrook Island

Riversleigh

World Heritage Barkly Fossil Site Homestead 1

2

Flinders River

Camooweal

Way ah

Undara Volcanic


QLD

Brisbane


pages 40-41

Cairns Cape Crawford Karumba Normanton 1 1 Gulflander Leichhardt Falls Train Undara Atherton Lawn Hill Tablelands Sava 1 National Park nn

NT

Toowoomba 1

3

2 Lorella Springs

ah Way

Carnarvon Gorge 2

Gulf of Carpentaria

Limmen National Park

Savann



E N G R A

E N G R A

Roma

Cairns 1 Fitzroy Island SA

G

G

SA

QLD

Emerald

I N

I N

Daintree River

I D

I D

Bloomfield Track

Cape Tribulation Longreach 2 1 Daintree National Park

Cox River

V

V


Carnarvon Gorge 2

Bladensburg National Park

I

Winton 1

1 CooktownLark Quarry

Limmen River


D

I

Emerald

1 Darwin Litchfield National Park

T

D

Longreach 2


QLD

A

T

Winton 1 Bladensburg National Park Lark Quarry

Lakefield National ParkNT

Cloncurry McKinlay

E

A


1 Cobbold Gorge R

E

QLD

1

Savannah Way

Flinders River

Coen

R

Cloncurry McKinlay

Cairns Karumba 1 1 Normanton Georgetown

G


12 Day Savannah Explorer (GOCK12)

Gulf of Carpentaria

Archer River

1 Cobbold Gorge G

NT

Jardine River


1 Bramwell

Weipa 1

1

Savannah Way

Flinders River

Mt Isa 2

Wenlock River

16 Day Essence of the Outback with Reef Cruise (GOCQCE16R)

pages 42-43

pages 44-45 SA

12 Day The Best of Corner Country (GOBM12)

10 Day Kakadu & Tiwi Explorer (GOKT10)

NORTHERN TERRITORY

NT

Birdsville 2 Melville Island 2

Cooper Creek

Birdsville Track

Burke and Wills Dig Tree 1 Innamincka QLD

Mungerannie


Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge

Sturt National Park

Strzelecki Regional Reserve Gammon Ranges National Park

Marree 1

SA

Lake Gairdner


Darwin 2

1 Tibooburra

2

Wildman Wilderness Lodge

Cameron Corner

Milparinka

East Alligator River

1

Nourlangie Rock

NSW

1 Cooinda

1 Broken Hill

Lake Frome

1 Wilpena

Kakadu National Park

Pound

Scotia

Adelaide 2

Edith Falls


Mungo National Park

Renmark

2 Mildura


1 Katherine

Katherine River

VIC

pages 50-51

Murray River

13 Day West Coast Explorer (GOWF13)

WA

NT

16 Day Kimberley, Kakadu & Arnhem Land Explorer (GKB16R)

Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge

1 Wooleen Station

Kalbarri 1

Cone Bay


Derby Broome

Gib

1

The Pinnacles


Perth 1

er R Riv

2

2

Windjana Gorge Tunnel Creek

Vic

Derby

r to

Lake Argyle

NT

Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge

Broome

2


Fitzroy River

WA

Fitzroy River

River R

d

ib

Pentecost River Durack River

Kununurra

Cone Bay

b

Ord River

2 Kununurra Lake Argyle

Pentecost River

2 Windjana Gorge Tunnel Creek

Durack River

Geikie Gorge

1

NT

Wyndham

1

El Questro

Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge G

1

Katherine River

Kalumburu Emma Road Gorge

1

Hw y

Ord River

2

Home Drysdale River Station 1 Valley


Cicada Lodge 1

2

El Questro

Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge

ia

WA

Mitchell Falls Kalumburu Emma 2 Road Gorge Wilderness Lodge Drysdale River Station 1

d

Shark Bay

Cannon Hill

2

King Edward River

Fortescue River

Gascoyne River




Karijini National Park Carnarvon 1

Monkey Mia 2

Darwin 1

b

F A LO O RE E

World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Marine Park

NING

2

Cape Range National Park Coral Bay

King Edward River

Eighty Mile Beach

2



Halls Creek

Fitzroy Crossing

WA

pages 60-61

pages 62-63

pages 64-65

CHOOSE YOUR DREAM ADVENTURE

Exmouth 2

1

Tom Price

pages 52-53

15 Day Kimberley Complete (GKC15)

Broome Eco Beach 1 Port Hedland

Arnhem Land Cannon Hill

11

The Australian Experts Voted ‘Best Domestic Tour Operator’ four years in a row, 2012 – 2015. Enjoy peace of mind knowing more people choose to travel

AN AR TE U MAX. GUESTS

AL

PS

SM

20

ED

G

with APT in Australia than any other premium tour operator.

L GRO

U

No More Than 20 Travellers

The Outback Experience

As the experts in small group

Outback so much fun is the opportunity

A big part of what makes travelling to the

touring, we guarantee there will never be

to experience a different way of life. Bring

more than 20 guests on your land journey.

your sense of adventure and tolerance of

We’ll take you to spots that only our Driver-

Outback conditions, to ensure you get

Guides know, so you see a side to the

the most out of your journey.

2

ONALIS RS

ED

PE

Outback that larger groups miss.

PERSON CREW

SE

RVICE

Travel with the Experts

Tour Director & Driver-Guide in Cape York

Our expert Driver-Guides have years of experience travelling these tracks, ensuring your comfort and safety in vehicles that are custom-designed for the Outback. APT also

APT guests travelling to Cape York in

enjoys an impeccable reliability record.

2016 will enjoy the expertise of a dedicated Tour Director, in addition to your knowledgeable Driver-Guide.

Meet ‘Jimbo’ With many years

Multiple Award Winners

experience, ‘Jimbo’

In 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015, we were

is an authority on the

awarded ‘Best Domestic Tour Operator’

Australian Outback.

at the National Travel Industry Awards. We were also inducted into the WA Tourism Hall of Fame – an accolade that only a few can boast. As the only major tour operator

He knows the trails like the back of his hand, and he’ll show you the spots only locals know about. “What really inspires me about

to have Advanced Eco-Certification in the

the region is the fact that it is one of

Kimberley, we’re proud to be number one

the last remaining pristine savannah

with discerning travellers.

wilderness areas existing in the world.”

2015 BEST CRUISE OPERATOR BEST TOUR OPERATOR - INTERNATIONAL BEST TOUR OPERATOR - DOMESTIC

BEST RIVER CRUISE OPERATOR BEST TOUR OPERATOR - INTERNATIONAL BEST TOUR OPERATOR - DOMESTIC

Not sure where to go? Let APT show you the way

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P E OU E TH GR C L IEN AL ER SM EXP Explore the wonders of the Outback in a small group

THE AUSTRALIAN EXPERTS

Explore the Outback in your custom-design 4WD

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Celebrating 50 Years of Outback Touring We’re extremely honoured to share with you a love for the Australian Outback. From a school camping trip in 1964 to our extensive touring program today, we always maintain a spirit of adventure and are committed to sharing with you a passion for exploration.

An Australian Story

that spirit of adventure, passion for travel,

A school bus driver in Bayside Victoria,

and love of the Australian Outback.

it was in 1964 that Geoff McGeary took

Today, we offer expertly-crafted

a group of students from St Leonard’s

adventures; from small group escorted

College on a camping trip to Central

4WD tours, to sensational cruises,

Australia. In those days, the roads were

independent air tours, and Wilderness

dirt, they travelled in a school bus, and

Lodge stays for the self-drive traveller.

accommodation options barely existed. However, it must have been an amazing trip, as today APT offers more than 100 different holidays to every continent on earth.

This pioneering spirit shows. APT is recognised as the touring specialists in Australia and in particular, the Kimberley and Outback. More passengers choose APT for Australia than any other premium

Geoff has always considered Australian Outback touring as the core of APT’s business, and during the 70s and 80s,

Outback Wilderness Adventures today

tour operator. Similarly, APT has hosted more people in the Kimberley than any other operator.

continued to expand and improve upon the Outback Australia pogram.

Geoff’s daughter Lou and her husband Rob currently manage APT’s Kimberley and

In 1998, APT purchased Australian

Outback Wilderness Adventures program.

Kakadu Tours and in 2003 the Wunan Foundation invited APT to purchase 60% of the fledgling Kimberley Wilderness Adventures, with its network of camps in Western Australia’s Kimberley region. After that first trip in 1964, a new era in the Australian travel industry was born. Five decades on, the level of quality may

Vijay - please add photo of Geoff driving bus from ‘Australian Story’ page 3 APT1256 Caption: Geoff McGeary at the wheel on one of APT’s first Outback adventures.

be much higher, but APT still holds true to Geoff driving one of the first Outback adventures

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The very first Outback tour to Central Australia in 1964

The McGeary family: Lou, Geoff and Rob

Outback Wilderness Adventures in the 1970s

Nothing fuels my sense of adventure more than leaving the bitumen for the dirt and exploring our – Geoff McGeary OAM, APT Company Owner

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF OUTBACK TOURING

own last frontier.

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ignature Invitations Queensland & South Australia. Included experiences crafted just for you, we invite you to venture into an unforgettable world of exclusive moments, incredible cultures and charming surprises. Once-in-a-Lifetime Moments

Mossman Gorge Walk

Crafted especially for APT guests, our

Enjoy a Dreamtime Gorge Walk with a

Signature Invitations represent once-in-a-

local guide. Start with a smoking ceremony

lifetime moments that words and pictures

and learn about bush tucker, ochre

can’t describe. Presenting unique

painting and how to make bush soap.

opportunities or granting you exclusive access to enchanting attractions, these included experiences allow you to discover each destination in greater depth than you could ever imagine. The following is but a glimpse at the Signature Invitations that await when you travel with APT.

Queensland APT EXCLUSIVE! Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve Be guided through this pristine eco-reserve dedicated to the memory of the worldfamous Crocodile-Hunter Steve Irwin. APT EXCLUSIVE! Hinchinbrook Island Discover one of Australia’s most beautiful tropical wilderness areas from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat. APT EXCLUSIVE! Fossil Preparation Join the Australian Age of Dinosaurs team in Winton for the rare chance to work with recently unearthed dinosaur fossils. The Tip of Cape York It is a special moment when you stand on the northernmost point of mainland Australia. Walk to the tip of Cape York and admire spectacular vistas of the Torres Strait.

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Woodleigh Station Learn about this remote working cattle station’s rich family history dating back five generations and see how they work the cattle today.

South Australia NEW FOR 2016! Seal Bay Conservation Park The only place in the world where you can get up close to the Australia sea lion, Seal Bay Conservation Park is dedicated to protecting this rare species. Drive the Birdsville Track Traverse some of the most arid land in the country along one of Australia’s most iconic 4WD tracks, opened in the 1860s as a route for herding cattle from Queensland. NEW FOR 2016! Mungo National Park Discover the dramatic landscapes of this World Heritage-listed area, home to the Willandra people for more than 45,000 years.

Look For This Logo Throughout itineraries, APT’s included Signature Invitations are presented in bold text and highlighted by this logo.

Get up close to Kangaroo Island’s sea lions

Stand at the northernmost tip of Australia

Explore the salt flats of Lake Eyre

The exhilarating day flight over Lake Eyre showed us nature’s feeding the lake with an amazing array of colours and birdlife. – Peter, Coober Pedy, Lake Eyre & Birdsville

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS

natural waterways

Learn about the local Aboriginal culture at Mossman Gorge on an enthralling Dreamtime Gorge Walk

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Explore the sheer escarpments of the ancient land of Kings Canyon

This extraordinary journey into a magical land exceeded all my expectations! I consider myself immensely privileged to have had our guide John Kemp “Kempy” share his passion & knowledge for this ancient land. – Jacqui, Kimberley Adventurer Fly over the spectacular ‘Lost City’

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ignature Invitations Northern Territory & Western Australia. APT’s Signature Invitations have been carefully designed to offer that something extra. With these once-in-a-lifetime moments, you’ll experience the best the Outback has to offer.

Northern Territory

Western Australia

NEW FOR 2016! Kings Canyon

Monkey Mia Dolphins

Come with us on a dramatic rim walk

Bottlenose dolphins have been coming to

along the edge of 300-metre-high cliffs

feed at the shores of Monkey Mia Dolphin

towering above the spectacular King’s

Resort for more than 40 years. Enjoy a

Creek and the ‘Garden of Eden’.

unique encounter with these creatures.

NEW FOR 2016!

Pinnacles of Nambung National Park

Goose Creek Cruise, Tiwi Islands

Rising like eerie spires from the shifting

The Tiwi Islands are renowned for their

desert sands, the Pinnacles offer an

traditional way of life, awe-inspiring art

impressive, lunar-like landscape.

and stunning waterways. Embark on a relaxing cruise along Goose Creek and gain a greater cultural insight into this fascinating region. Along the way, you will encounter a plethora of native wildlife. Heli-Flight Over the Lost City Tucked away in a remote eastern pocket of the Northern Territory lies the remarkable Lost City, a vast plateau protecting a collection of towering sandstone columns. Board a heli-flight for an unparalleled view of this rarely-seen natural wonder. Guluyambi Cruise Journey along the East Alligator River on landscapes glide by, an Aboriginal guide will explain the culture, history and wildlife of the region. Learn about the beautiful

Enjoy an entire day to spend exploring the natural beauty of Karijini National Park. Lush gorges, tumbling waterfalls and impressive rock formations await your discovery in this stunning national park. Snorkel Ningaloo Reef Take a glass-bottom boat ride through Ningaloo Reef Marine Park and enjoy snorkelling amongst brilliant coral and stunning marine life. Then, relish a picnic lunch on the shores of Turquoise Bay. Wooleen Station Made famous by ABC’s Australian Story, meet owners David and Frances, who de-stocked this beautiful property, allowing the regeneration of the landscape to occur.

birds, prehistoric reptiles and fascinating

Look For This Logo

mammals that call this spectacular and

Throughout itineraries, APT’s included

timeless land home.

Signature Invitations are presented in


the Guluyambi Cruise. As the evocative

Explore Karijini National Park

bold text and highlighted by this logo. Admire the Pinnacles in Nambung National Park

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Explore the spectacular wilderness of Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve on Cape York Peninsula

The Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve was set aside in honour of my dad and his legacy, to mark all the incredible work he achieved during his life for wildlife conservation. It is the most pristine land on planet Earth... – Bindi Irwin

The Irwin family are proud to share this special part of Australia with you

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& E IV EW S N LU C EX

Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve

Enjoy exclusive access to this private wetland, otherwise off-limits to the general public. Led by a ranger from Australia Zoo, enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime Signature Invitation to discover Queensland’s most environmentally significant area during your Cooktown and Cape York journey.

An Experience Like No Other

Save Steve’s Place Campaign

Thanks to our partnership with Australia

Following a long-standing public

Zoo, we’re giving APT guests who travel

campaign led by Terri Irwin, the

on our Cape York adventures exclusive

Queensland Government recently

access to this private park, which is

declared the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve

off-limits to the general public. Enjoy

and the Wenlock River as Queensland’s

a fascinating tour of the area, guided by

first ever ‘strategic environmental area’,

a ranger from Australia Zoo.

saving it from a future of strip mining.

Welcome to the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve A tribute to Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin,

Today, the reserve demonstrates the need to achieve balance between environmental protection and economic growth.

the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve in

Your Day at the Reserve

Queensland’s Cape York Peninsula forms

Commencing at Stone’s Crossing, you will

an integral part of the National Reserve

be welcomed by a ranger from Australia

System Programme. Set over 330,000

Zoo, who will provide an introduction to

acres, the pristine private wilderness area

the wildlife, sonar detector tracking of

protects a set of important spring-fed

wildlife, as well as the important research

wetlands which provide a vital water

programs that take place at the property.

source to threatened habitat, a permanent

At Camp Coolibah, discover the

flow of water to the Wenlock River and

movement of the crocodiles in the area

ensures the survival of many endangered

and the endangered Speartooth Shark.

native species.

Here, you will also see a demonstration on how crocodile cages are deployed and operated. Afterwards, visit Bluebottle

The reserve is a special place for the Irwin

Creek and uncover the geology of the

Family as it is where Steve Irwin conducted

region, the significance of bauxite and

his famous crocodile ‘capture and study’

how the plateau filters water to ensure

research project, focusing on Estuarine

survival of endangered species. You will

Crocodiles in the Wenlock River. The team

also learn about bush tucker and the

today still use some of Steve’s weight bag

native flora, including the Sarsaparilla

rings that remain fixed in some of the trees.

Bush and Hanguana Malayana.

STEVE IRWIN WILDLIFE RESERVE

Continuing Steve’s Legacy

Try and spot the rare Palm Cockatoo

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Ambient Dining Enjoy a delicious taste of the Australian Outback, where fresh produce and local ingredients shine. Sumptuous meals in picturesque settings await on your Outback Wilderness Adventure. Enjoy delicious buffet breakfasts, idyllic picnics and dinners beneath remote starry skies. Special Dining Experiences From sunset drinks to picnics and special

Great Barrier Reef Seafood Feast

Welcome and Farewell dinners, with APT

Aboard your Great Barrier Reef cruise,

superb dining is all part of the experience.

succumb to the most succulent and fresh

APT Kimberley Wilderness Lodges APT Wilderness Lodges offer magical dining in some of the most remote settings. You’ll be amazed by the variety and quality of food on offer, as our chefs prepare amazing dishes using the freshest ingredients. For breakfast, choose from a selection of delicious offerings, and enjoy tea or coffee as you watch the bush awaken. Sit down for dinner each night and linger over an indulgent three-course meal, showcasing local food and wine.

APT EXCLUSIVE! Picnic Lunch at Turquoise Bay Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at idyllic Turquoise Bay, then snorkel in the clear waters of Ningaloo Reef.

APT EXCLUSIVE! Dining with the Stars At Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge, you will be treated to an exclusive dining experience under the stars. Sit around the camp fire to sample gourmet delicacies such as camel, kangaroo and barramundi, then later, enjoy a stargazing walk.

seafood, where you have the liberty to indulge to your heart’s content.

Cicada Lodge Gourmet Dining At this luxury lodge you’ll enjoy native Australian foods incorporated into a contemporary menu. Savour canapés and drinks on arrival, then be treated to an exquisite three-course meal, overlooking the serene pool.

Monkey Mia Seafood Dinner Fresh seafood and a stunning beach location make for a memorable dining experience at Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort.

North Food and Wine at Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina With a spectacular view of the Marina and Trinity Inlet, North Food and Wine commands the most stunning restaurant location in Cairns, with equally delectable food and wine to match.

Sounds of Silence Dinner, Ayers Rock Resort Begin with canapés and chilled sparkling wine overlooking Uluru, before helping yourself to a ‘bush tucker’ inspired buffet that incorporates native ingredients such as crocodile, kangaroo and barramundi. Enjoy flavours of the region at Cicada Lodge

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Indulge in a memorable ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner with the spectacular backdrop of Uluru

The accommodation, meals and staff were fantastic and the packed lunches were better than I could think of. – Raelene and Robert, Kimberley Complete

AMBIENT DINING

Dine in the new Ungolan Pavilion at Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge

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Stations, Hotels & Resorts Queensland & South Australia. QUEENSLAND

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Cape York, Punsand Bay accommodation overlooking the golden

NEW FOR 2016! Aurora Ozone Hotel Kangaroo Island

beaches and turquoise waters of the

Situated on the foreshore with sublime

Arafura Sea and Torres Strait Islands.

views overlooking stunning Nepean Bay,

Awake each morning to sweeping views

the Aurora Ozone Hotel is the perfect base

northwards to the tip of Australia.

for exploring the wonderful wildlife and

NEW FOR 2016! Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge

sampling the fantastic local produce of

Relax in comfortable beachfront

Kangaroo Island.

With an array of active wildlife to see up

Desert Cave Hotel, Coober Pedy

close, enjoy a bush holiday in style at

Stay at the unique Desert Cave Hotel in

Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge,

Coober Pedy. The quirky underground

staying in safari-style cabins.

rooms with high ceilings are cool, dark

APT EXCLUSIVE! Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort

and airy, plus visitors often proclaim it’s ‘the best night’s sleep they’ve ever had’.

Stay in a superb Superior Lagoon View

APT EXCLUSIVE! Clare Valley Country Club

guest room, that has recently been

Stay in the heart of the picturesque

refurbished, surrounded by seemingly

Clare Valley wine region in spacious

endless sparkling lagoons. Located on

accommodation. At the hotel’s Corners

Four Mile Beach, this world-famous resort

Restaurant & Bar, sample superb wines

is a slice of tropical paradise.

and fine local produce.

Shangri-La Hotel The Marina, Cairns Experience the lush comfort of this

APT EXCLUSIVE! The Playford Hotel, Adelaide

five-star resort set in the heart of tropical

Located in the heart of North Terrace

Cairns, where luxurious rooms and ocean

within the arts, cultural and entertainment

views await. Stand on your balcony and

precinct, The Playford Hotel Adelaide is a

watch the sunlight shimmer off yachts

five-star property with Art Nouveau styling.

docked at the marina.

Birdsville Hotel

Ikara Safari Camp, Flinders Ranges

Since 1884, the Birdsville Hotel has stood

Set amongst river red gums and native

proudly at the very edge of the Simpson

pines, Ikara Safari Camp is the perfect base

Desert. Today, it is a true outback icon.

for exploring Wilpena Pound National Park. Head underground for a stay in Coober Pedy

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Swim in the lagoons at the spectacular Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort

This is my third trip in three years and all of them, so far, have been magnificent. I will certainly be Stay at Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge

travelling with you the next time I go in Australia. – Bev, Cooktown & Cape York

STATIONS, HOTELS & RESORTS

away somewhere

Relax in comfort at The Playford Hotel in Adelaide

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Take in sublime vistas at Eco Beach Resort in Broome

We particularly enjoyed all of the stunning campsites and the environment in which they were placed... this was the best holiday we have ever had, in the best and most scenic country in the world. – D. Perry, Kimberley Complete Relax in luxurious accommodation with Indigenous influences at Sails in the Desert

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Stations, Hotels & Resorts Northern Territory & Western Australia. NORTHERN TERRITORY NEW FOR 2016! Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge Set in a private part of Kings Creek Station among the Desert Oak trees, Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge gives guests a memorable Australian Outback experience. Relax in an exclusive tented cabin with your own private ensuite.

NEW FOR 2016! Sails in the Desert, Ayers Rock Resort In the heart of the Red Centre, the luxury of Sails in the Desert complements the sheer natural beauty of Uluru, featuring a gumtree-lined swimming pool. The culture of the local Anangu people is incorporated into the resort’s beautiful accommodation, dining and lounge areas.

NEW FOR 2016! Mantra on the Esplanade, Darwin Mantra on the Esplanade Darwin offers modern ccommodation, set on a prime waterfront location.

Cicada Lodge, Katherine

NEW & EXCLUSIVE! Wildman Wilderness Lodge, Mary River National Park Located within the Mary River Wetlands in the Top End, Wildman Wilderness Lodge offers a luxurious experience with spacious safari tents and private ensuites.

NEW & EXCLUSIVE! Melville Island Lodge, Tiwi Islands Make the most of your time in paradise with a range of room types on offer at this . A highlight will be taking in a breathtaking sunset that is second-to-none.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA NEW & EXCLUSIVE! Eco Beach Resort, Broome Enjoy the stunning white sand and pristine waters of Eco Beach, in a stunning Garden View Eco Villa, at this luxury resort located an hour south of Broome.

APT EXCLUSIVE! Hyatt Regency Perth Located by the beautiful Swan River, Hyatt Regency Perth is an award-winning hotel that offers superior comfort and convenience. Located just a short stroll from the historic St Georges Terrace, it provides

the Nitmiluk National Park and is 100%

the ideal base to explore Perth.

Indigenous-owned. Simple and elegant, natural landscape. Rooms feature local

APT EXCLUSIVE! Wooleen Station

Aboriginal artworks, air-conditioning and

Situated in remote Murchison region,

private balconies. Enjoy canapés and

Wooleen Station provides an aithentic

drinks on arrival before indulging in an

Outback experience within an old

exquisite three-course meal.

homestead with shared facilities.

the lodge blends seamlessly into the

STATIONS, HOTELS & RESORTS

Cicada Lodge sits on an escarpment in

Capture sunset at Melville Island Lodge

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APT Wilderness Lodges Boasting the best locations in the Kimberley, experience a touch of luxury at APT’s exclusive network of wilderness lodges. A Touch of Luxury in the Heart of the Wilderness

NEW & EXCLUSIVE! Ungolan Pavilion

APT’s private lodges have been built

Experience the brand new Ungolan

with our ‘touch of luxury in the wilderness’

Pavilion at Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge,

philosophy in mind, providing the comforts

offering brand new features including

of home in remote wilderness locations.

a lounge, bar, library and dining area.

Be welcomed by friendly lodge staff and

A commercial kitchen has been installed

relax in the tranquil surrounds.

to provide an even higher standard of

Placed to Perfection

gourmet cuisine. The Ungolan Pavilion is built with the support of the local Kandiwal

No other company can offer the

community and will feature an Indigenous

convenience that our network of lodges

art gallery.

affords. Each is strategically located to ensure your days are full of highlights, and

Intimate, Relaxed Atmosphere

your nights are spent in dream-like locations.

APT’s lodges are designed to offer intimate

Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge Situated in the heart of Purnululu National Park with easy access to the beehive domes. Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge

and stylish accommodation in unique wilderness locations, including on Indigenous land. Friendly on-site lodge hosts are on hand while the dining area and campfire provide convivial focal points.

The first permanent accommodation established on the Mitchell Plateau. Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge Located just off the Gibb River Road with easy access to Bell and Windjana gorges.

Limiting Our Impact

Serving Sumptuous Cuisine Our lodges offer magical dining experiences in some of the outback’s most evocative settings. Experience locally sourced Australian ingredients incorporated into a contemporary menu. Guests are continually

APT is committed to providing a

amazed at our chefs’ ability to provide

more sustainable future, recently

mouth-watering dishes in remote locations.

receiving the Qantas Award for

As our lodges have liquor licences, you can

Excellence in Sustainable Tourism at the

enjoy a drink with your three-course dinner.

Western Australian Tourism Awards. We are also the only major tour operator in the Kimberley with an Advanced Ecotourism certification. Our initiatives include adopting solar/diesel hybrid systems and utilising ABCO systems for recycling water. 28


APT WILDERNESS LODGES  C omfortable tented cabins with private ensuites and front decks  Open-air dining in magnificent settings  Three-course dinner and breakfast included  Liquor licence – so you can enjoy a drink  Atmospheric campfire evenings

SAMPLE MENU ENTREE: smoked salmon with sour cream and capers served on a potato blini main: cone bay barramundi served on a bed of smashed chats, topped with a tomato and herb salsa, steamed broccoli and cauliflower, basil oil and grilled lemon dessert: lime cheesecake with macerated berries and vanilla bean chantilly cream

A PT LU C EX VE SI The new Ungolan Pavilion at Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge blends seamlessly with the stunning wilderness surrounds

APT WILDERNESS LODGES

A superior tent at the Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge

Enjoy relaxed dining at Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge

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A PT C EX H C A L RT U ER SIV S E Enjoy many opportunities to spot marine life and coral during your Great Barrier Reef cruise aboard the Coral Expeditions II

Well done Nathan, Emma, Dennis and the whole crew of Coral Expeditions II for enhancing our Great Barrier Reef experience. We will definitely be back. – Lorna, Queensland

Explore the reef aboard a shaded excursion vessel

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Join a guided tour on a glass bottom boat

Great Barrier Reef Cruising Explore Australia’s iconic underwater world and secluded tropical islands. For the perfect holiday, combine your Cape York, Outback Queensland or Gulf Trail journey with a Great Barrier Reef cruise aboard the Coral Expeditions II.

APT EXCLUSIVE SAILINGS Australian flagged, registered and staffed, the Coral Expeditions II is the ideal ship to expertly navigate islands and reefs. APT will exclusively charter this vessel, accommodating a maximum of only 46 guests. A hand-crafted itinerary has been developed just for

Discover Secluded Shores On this exclusive charter, you’ll venture away from the tourist trail and enjoy exclusive moorings such as Hinchinbrook Island. Snorkel over coral gardens and get up close to turtles on Fitzroy Island. On shore, stroll sands of Sudbury Cay, and wander spectacular rainforest trails.

you, providing exclusive access to

Excursion Vessels

surrounding islands that are otherwise

The Coral Expeditions II travels with two

inaccessible. On board, beverages with lunch and dinner, as well as an APT Cruise Director are also included.

inflatable vessels (used for scuba diving excursions) along with a glass-bottom boat (used for coral viewing). The ship’s unique hydraulic platform allows you to safely

The Complete Great Barrier Reef Experience

board your excursion vessels with ease.

The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s

deck before gently lowering into the water,

largest reef system. Comprising more than

with no need to get your feet wet.

2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands, the region covers approximately 344,400 square kilometres. Awake each morning to sublime coral gardens, rainforests and

Stylish Accommodation The 22 suites are styled with a traditional maritime motif, featuring air-conditioning, ample storage and a spacious private ensuite with Gilchrist & Soames toiletries. All suites are serviced daily and offer large picture windows to capture ocean views.

Exquisite Dining Using only the freshest local produce, onboard chefs create an exquisite array of modern-Australian cuisine. What’s more, beverages are included with lunch and dinner during your cruise.

Expert All-Australian Crew Only the most experienced crew accompany you, including a resident expert marine biologist, ensuring you receive the highest level of service.

GREAT BARRIER REEF CRUISING

tropical islands, right outside your window.

Simply step aboard from the ship’s main

Relax and enjoy the superb onboard facilities

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Discover the world with APT, and become the centre of ours. As part of the APT family, you’ll enjoy exclusive privileges each time you travel with us. From the very moment you book your first APT journey of seven days or more, we welcome you to the APT Club. As a member, you can be certain that you’ll always be treated as a prestigious guest of APT.

silver membership

1 APT TRIP

Once you have booked your first APT trip, you qualify for complimentary Silver membership. Benefits include: • Welcome Home Voucher* (valued at $100 per person) at the completion of your trip • ‘By Invitation’ tours available exclusively to APT Club Members • Invitations to special events

Mem ber

• Access to our dedicated APT Club Hotline • Exclusive member communications featuring the latest offers and destinations • Solo Traveller Club membership upon request • Access to the APT SnapnSend postcard app • Complimentary adventure pack complete with a handy backpack; luggage labels; a solar powered torch; a chamois travel towel; a personalised itinerary; and touring information

gold membership

2 APT TRIPS

Once you have booked your second APT trip, Gold membership entitles you to all the APT Club benefits of Silver membership, plus: Freedom of Choice™ Savings* – Choose one of the following: • Complimentary return private Home-To-Airport Transfers • $100 credit per person towards your booking

Mem ber

Freedom of Choice™ Merchandise* – Choose to replace your travel bag to one of the following items: Toiletry Bag, Worldwide Travel Adaptor, Packing Cells or a Folding Tote Bag

platinum membership

3 APT TRIPS

Once you have booked your third APT trip, Platinum membership entitles you to all the APT Club benefits of Silver membership, plus: Freedom of Choice™ Savings* – Choose two of the following: • Complimentary return private Home-To-Airport Transfers • $100 credit per person towards your booking • Complimentary overnight accommodation before or after your tour

Freedom of Choice™ Merchandise* – Choose to replace your travel bag to one of the following items: Toiletry Bag, Worldwide Travel Adaptor, Packing Cells or a Folding Tote Bag

*For further information and conditions, visit www.kimberleywilderness.com.au/aptclub

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Mem ber Mem ber

SuperDeals 2016 Hurry, limited offer! Book by 15 December 2015 or until sold out!

Air Credit

SAVING up to $1,400

#

per couple

When you book a Cape York, Savannah Explorer, Northern Territory or Western Australia Tour Hurry − limited availability across select departures!

SAVE up to $1,200

#

per couple

When you book an Essence of the Outback or South Australia Tour Hurry − limited availability across select departures!

The above offers are combinable with the following offers

Early Payment Discount

#

Pay in full 10 months prior to departure and save an ADDITIONAL $400 per couple

Group Saving

#

When four or more people book a holiday together, you save an ADDITIONAL $100 per person INCLUDED ADVENTURE PACK When you embark on an APT Outback Wilderness Adventure featured in this brochure, you’ll receive a complimentary Adventure Pack to help you get the most out of your journey. It contains: ü A solar powered torch ü A chamois travel towel ü A travel wallet

Sunscreen and hand sanitiser are provided on all vehicles on all tours. #

Conditions apply. ALL OFFERS – a limited number of SuperDeal offers are available on select itineraries and departures. All pricing and saving amounts are in Australian dollars. All offers are available until 15 December 2015 unless sold out prior. All offers are strictly limited and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Only one offer applies per person and cannot be combined with any other offer unless specified. Available for new bookings only. Savings figures shown are the maximum possible savings available for the itinerary on which they appear and may not apply to all departures. AIR CREDIT OFFER – cannot be redeemed for cash and is non-transferable. Airfare credits are only available on Qantas and booking class of APT’s choosing and must be booked by APT. Saving of up to $1,400 per couple is based on GOCYCE15. Flight schedules may require an overnight stay, which will be an additional cost. Airline schedules are subject to change without notice and APT is not liable for any additional costs incurred due to airline schedule changes. A non-refundable deposit of $2,000 per person is due within seven days of booking. Deposit requirements may vary when booking Business Class. Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure. All air is ticketed upon receipt of deposit. Any changes made after ticketing will incur an amendment or cancellation fee. Savings are based on two people travelling on the same flight and travelling together on the same tour. SAVE UP TO $1,200 PER COUPLE – saving of up to $1,200 per couple is based on GOCQCE16R. EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT – available on tours of 5 days or more, and tour must be paid in full 10 months prior to departure date. This offer is combinable with air credit offer and Group Saving discount. GROUP SAVING – available on tours of 5 days or more when four or more people book at the same time and travel together on the same tour departure date. Not combinable with any other group discount. This offer is combinable with air credit offer and Early Payment Discount.

APT CLUB / SUPERDEALS 2016

ü A duffle bag or a handy backpack ü A one-litre stainless steel drink bottle ü Luggage labels

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Cooktown & Cape York 11 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Port Douglas | Cooktown | Cape York | Torres Strait Islands | Cairns

OUR MOST POPULAR TOUR

Experience a real paradise on earth where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef

A highlight of your Cape York journey is standing at the Australian mainland’s most northerly point. New for 2016, and exclusive to APT, learn about wilderness conservation at the remarkable Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve. Travel remote 4WD tracks, venture into the Daintree with local experts and encounter native wildlife.

Signature Invitation

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Day 1. Arrive Cairns, Port Douglas. Arrive in Cairns today, located in the heart of tropical North Queensland. Be met at the airport by your Driver-Guide and then take your early afternoon transfer to Port Douglas, where your beautiful resort awaits. Check into your beautiful Deluxe Lagoon View Room, overlooking the sparkling saltwater lagoon pools. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure. Perhaps take some time out to relax at your stylish hotel, unwind on glittering white sand beaches or explore the oldest, continuously surviving rainforest on the planet and hunt for a glimpse of the elusive flightless Southern Cassowary. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers, Driver-Guide and Tour Director during a Welcome Dinner at your hotel. Stay: Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort. D Day 2. Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge, Daintree National Park. A special cultural experience awaits today as you travel to stunning Mossman Gorge in Daintree National Park.

Here, set off on the enthralling Ngadiku Dreamtime Gorge Walk, led by local Indigenous guides. Starting with a smoking ceremony, APT guests will enjoy a journey along private, gentle tracks, visiting culturally significant sites and traditional bark shelters, meandering past cool rainforest streams. Later, embark on a Daintree River Cruise. The tidal convergence of freshwater and saltwater here has enabled a plethora of wildlife to inhabit this beautiful mangrove estuary. Spot estuarine crocodiles, birds, butterflies and a variety of reptile species. Stay: Daintree, Heritage Lodge & Spa. BLD Day 3. Daintree National Park, Cape Tribulation, Bloomfield Track, Cooktown. Following breakfast today, explore Cape Tribulation, where ancient rainforest meets the spectacular coastline. This is the only place in Australia where you can experience the splendour of tropical rainforest in close proximity to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. This astoundingly beautiful region

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Journey along the Bloomfield Track in safety and comfort

was named Cape Tribulation by James Cook when his ship grounded on the offshore reef. Later, set off along the remote and rugged 4WD Bloomfield Track, one of Australia’s most iconic Outback trails. This spectacular coastal route winds its way along the breathtaking coastline. Journey through dense sections of the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest, tackling steep climbs and several challenging creek crossings. Later, arrive in Cooktown, an unspoilt coastal town full of natural beauty and fascinating history. Here, discover the Cooktown Botanic Gardens, the James Cook Museum and the cemetery with its Chinese shrine. Just before sunset this evening, enjoy a tour of Grassy Point Lookout, which boasts simply stunning views across the Endeavour River. Later this evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a delicious dinner at your centrally located Cooktown hotel. Stay: Cooktown, The Sovereign Resort Hotel.BLD Day 4. Cooktown, Laura, Battle Camp Road, Isabella Falls, Lakefield National Park. Enjoy the beauty of Quinkan Country in Laura, ranked by UNESCO as one of the top ten

rock art areas in the world and considered to be one of Queensland’s best-kept secrets. After enjoying a Split Rock guided walk here, journey along the rugged Battle Camp Road, where you will reach Isabella Falls. Perhaps stop to take a refreshing dip in this freshwater creek crossing, cascading down into several pools before becoming a stunning small waterfall. Afterwards, continue to Battle Camp Station, named by a group of gold diggers who were heading west to the Palmer River. Visit the Old Laura Homestead, whose historic significance dates back to 1879 with the establishment of the cattle industry on the Cape York Peninsula. Later, turn off into Lakefield National Park, where numerous wallabies can be seen frolicking amongst the open woodland, and freshwater crocodiles are also often found lazing along the banks of the many rivers here. Afterwards, arrive at Lotus Bird Lodge. Retreat to your log-style cabin with a private ensuite, set amongst shady eucalypts. Relax on your own private verandah overlooking the billabong. Stay: Lotus Bird Lodge. BLD

Day 5. Lakefield National Park, Coen, Gulf Country, Weipa. Explore the fascinating old gold mining town of Coen this morning. Coen first attracted gold miners and prospectors in 1876, after gold deposits were found in the Coen River. It wasn’t until 1883, however, that Coen became the centre for several regional goldmines. Afterwards, drive through Mungkan Kandju National Park, a wilderness area with riverine rainforest and waterlily-covered lagoons. The park is home to a wide variety of birdlife, and the common spotted cuscus (a type of possum) can also be seen amongst the rainforest. Continue to the town of Weipa, home to the largest community on the Cape York Peninsula. Discover the history behind Weipa as you embark on a mining tour, which includes a visit to Rocky Point and the Regeneration Unit. Get up close to the 190-tonne Belly Dumper Haul Trucks while touring the working mine site and follow the conveyor belt system as the bauxite makes its way to the loading dock. Later, settle into your hotel before dinner this evening. Stay: Weipa, Albatross Hotel Resort. BLD

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND

Stand right on the northernmost tip of Australia

Keep an eye out for rare Palm Cockatoos

35

Learn about crocodile research programs at the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve

Day 6. Weipa, Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, Bramwell Station. Today, enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime visit to the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, which is normally off-limits to the general public. Commencing at Stone’s Crossing, you will be welcomed by a ranger from Australia Zoo, who will provide an introduction to the wildlife, sonar detector tracking, as well as the important research programs that take place at the property. After lunch at Camp Coolibah, discover the movement of the crocodiles in the area and the endangered Speartooth Shark. Here, you will also see a demonstration on how crocodile cages are deployed and operated. Afterwards, visit Bluebottle Creek and uncover the geology of the region, the significance of bauxite and how the plateau filters water to ensure survival of endangered species. You will also learn about bush tucker and the native flora, including the Sarsaparilla Bush and Hanguana Malayana. Later, continue to Bramwell Station, where you will enjoy dinner. Stay: Bramwell Station. BLD 36


Day 7. Bramwell Station, Cape York Peninsula, Punsand Bay. Begin your adventure to the tip of the Cape York Peninsula today. Skirting Jardine River National Park, continue through the traditional lands of the Injinoo Aboriginal people. The journey becomes adventurous when you travel on some of the original sections of the Old Telegraph Track, carved out in the 1880s and where some of the first telegraph poles can still be seen. Stop at Fruit Bat Falls for lunch and enjoy a refreshing swim. Later, cross the Jardine River by ferry, then onto Punsand Bay, Australia’s northernmost town. Two Night Stay: Punsand Bay. BLD Day 8. Punsand Bay, Tip of Cape York. Thanks to its unique location, just 5 kilometres from the tip, Punsand Bay is the perfect starting point for your Cape York exploration. Awake this morning to sweeping views of the tip and after breakfast, travel along a 4WD track to Frangipani Beach. From here, take a mildly challenging but thoroughly awe-inspiring

walk to the tip of the peninsula to experience being at the Australian mainland’s most northerly point. Soak up this truly once-in-alifetime moment and take in the sweeping views over the Torres Strait. You may also wish to take an optional helicopter flight over the tip (own expense). Later, travel to historic Somerset, once the official government residence of the cape. See the ruins of the homestead, the site of a station BLD established by John Jardine in 1863. Day 9. Punsand Bay, Thursday Island. Cruise across Endeavour Strait to Thursday Island. One of 18 inhabited islands in the Torres Strait group that lie between Cape York and Papua New Guinea, Thursday Island is home to around 3,000 people, primarily of Melanesian descent. Whilst today it is a multicultural outpost, Thursday Island was once a base for pearling luggers. Today, join a local guide to discover the island’s intriguing history. Step back in time with a visit to Green Hill Fort, located atop the island’s highest hill. Once used as munitions storage

Take in sweeping views of the Torres Strait from the most northern tip of mainland Australia

space, the fort’s maze of underground tunnels and rooms now house the interesting Torres Strait Museum. Admire views of the mangrove-covered coastlines, azure waters and golden sand beaches before visiting the local cemetery to see the poignant memorial to the Japanese Pearl Divers. You’ll also enjoy time at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre, which houses a range of historical artefacts and contemporary Indigenous art. This evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers. BLD Stay: Thursday Island, Jardine Motel. Day 10. Thursday Island, Horn Island, Cairns. This morning, transfer to nearby Horn Island aboard the local ferry. Located around 150 kilometres off Queensland’s coast, Horn Island offers a fascinating blend of tropical scenery and important Australian military history. During WWII, the island was damaged by nine

Japanese air raids, making it one of the most heavily bombed areas of Australia. During your guided tour today, you’ll visit the WWII Base and Torres Strait Heritage Museum, and learn how the island became an advanced operational airbase following the bombing of Darwin. This afternoon, board an included QANTAS flight from Horn Island over the Great Barrier Reef. Marvel at this amazing spectacle from the air before arriving in Cairns. Transfer to your comfortable hotel and tonight, share stories of your adventure with new-found friends over a delicious Farewell Dinner. Stay: Cairns, Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina. BLD Day 11. Depart Cairns. Your adventure ends after breakfast this morning with an included transfer to the airport for your onward flight. B

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99Services of a dedicated Driver-Guide & knowledgeable Tour Director 99QANTAS flight from Horn Island to Cairns

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Discover Mossman Gorge and set off on a Dreamtime Gorge Walk 99Stroll along Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef 99Travel the rugged Bloomfield Track, one of Australia’s most iconic Outback trails

Tour Director & Driver-Guide When you travel with APT to Cape York, you will be accompanied by a dedicated Tour Director in addition to a Driver-Guide. With twice the expertise on offer, as an APT guest you will enjoy an in-depth Cape York experience like no other. What’s more, you will also enjoy the added benefit of more personalised attention.

99APT EXCLUSIVE! Explore the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, normally off-limits to the general public 99Traverse the Old Telegraph Track, carved out in the 1880s 99Journey to the most northerly point of the Australian mainland, with sweeping views of the Torres Strait

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Enjoy a stunning Daintree River Cruise 99Discover the beauty of Cooktown

2016 DATES & PRICES Solo Trav.

11 Day GOCY11 May 9, 11, 18, 20, 22, 23, 30. June 3, 6, 8,17, 19, 20. July 2, 4, 6, 15, 17, 18, 27, 29, 31. Aug. 3, 12, 14, 15, 25, 28, 30. Sept. 7, 9, 11, 19, 21, 23.

$8,895 $8,895 $8,895 $8,895 $8,895

$7,695 $7,695 $7,695 $7,695 $7,695

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Weather events may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms & conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details. Activity Level: Moderate – includes mainly easy walks and some more moderate.

99Visit the multi-cultural Thursday Island 99Take a WWII tour on Horn Island

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Stay at the Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Bramwell Station 99Two nights at Punsand Bay with views of the tip 99Stay at the Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina in Cairns

FINEST DINING – INCLUDES ALL MEALS

$1,200 AIR CREDIT PER COUPLE# BOOK BY 15 DECEMBER 2015

99Enjoy 10 Breakfasts (B), 9 Lunches (L) and 10 Dinners (D)

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND

GOCY11 – 11 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016 Twin Share

99Explore stunning Lakefield National Park (A$)

37

Cape York with Reef Cruise 15 Day Small Group 4WD & Cruise Adventure Port Douglas | Cooktown | Cape York | Torres Strait Islands | Cairns | Great Barrier Reef

APT EXCLUSIVE CHARTERS

Explore the islands and atolls of the Great Barrier Reef aboard the Coral Expeditions II

For the ultimate Cape York holiday, finish off with a three-night Great Barrier Reef cruise. Board the Coral Expeditions II in Cairns and explore this tropical paradise aboard APT’s exclusive charter. Discover the wonders of the reef with a range of aquatic activities, uncover exclusive islands and immerse yourself in pristine ancient rainforests. Signature Invitation

38


Day 1. Arrive Cairns, Port Douglas. Be met at the airport by your Driver-Guide for your early afternoon transfer to Port Douglas. Enjoy a special Welcome Dinner tonight. Stay: Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort.

D

Day 4. Cooktown, Laura, Battle Camp Road, Isabella Falls, Lakefield National Park. Discover Laura, then continue to Battle Camp Road and Isabella Falls. Stay: Lotus Bird Lodge. BLD

Day 2. Port Douglas, Mossman Gorge, Daintree National Park. This morning, travel to stunning Mossman Gorge in the Daintree National Park. Here, set off on the enthralling Ngadiku Dreamtime Gorge Walk, before enjoying a Daintree River Cruise. Stay: Daintree, Heritage Lodge & Spa. BLD

Day 5. Lakefield National Park, Coen, Gulf Country, Weipa. Explore the old gold mining town of Coen. Drive through Mungkan Kandju National Park, home to a wide variety of birdlife. Arrive this afternoon in Weipa and enjoy a tour of a bauxite mine. Stay: Weipa, Albatross Hotel Resort. BLD

Day 3. Daintree National Park, Cape Tribulation, Bloomfield Track, Cooktown. Today, head to Cape Tribulation. Set off along the remote and rugged 4WD Bloomfield Track, one of Australia’s most iconic Outback trails. In Cooktown, discover Nature’s Powerhouse – the Cooktown Botanic Gardens. Visit the James Cook Museum before a town tour. At sunset, tour the Grassy Point Lookout. Stay: Cooktown, The Sovereign Resort Hotel. BLD

Day 6. Weipa, Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, Bramwell Station. Be guided by a ranger from Australia Zoo to enjoy a oncein-a-lifetime visit to the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, which is normally off-limits to the general public. Learn about the remarkable wilderness conservation practices taking place. Later, continue to Bramwell Station, where you’ll learn about APT’s connection with the property. Stay: Bramwell Station. BLD

Old Telegraph Track

Wenlock

River


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2

ED

River Thursday Island 1 Horn Island 1 Bramwell Day 7. Bramwell Station, Cape York Station ONALIS Weipa 1 RS Peninsula, Punsand Bay. Begin your adventure 2 Punsand Bay Archer River to the tip of the Cape York Peninsula. Skirting PERSON Sealed Road Fruit Bat Falls Jardine CREW Jardine River4WD National Park, travel some of the Old River Track SE STEVE IRWIN Mungkan Kandju RVICE Telegraph Jardine River Cruise/Ferry original sections of the Old Telegraph Track, National Park WILDLIFE RESERVE Track Coen National Park QANTAS Flight Wenlock stopping at Fruit Bat Falls for lunch and a swim. River No. of nights stay Peninsula 1 Bramwell Cross the Jardine River by ferry to Punsand Bay. Station Development Lakefield Weipa 1 Road National Moreton Sealed Road Two Night Stay: Punsand Bay. BLD Park Lotus 1 Telegraph Archer River 4WD Track Bird Lodge Station Cruise/Ferry 1 Cooktown Day 8. Punsand Bay, Tip of Cape York. QANTAS Flight Bloomfield Track Laura Mungkan Kandju Today, you’ll walk to the tip of the peninsula No. of nights stay Cape Tribulation National Park Coen to experience being at the Australian Daintree River 1 Daintree National Park Peninsula mainland’s most northerly point. After, travel QLD Development Lakefield Road to Somerset, once the official government National Park 1 Lotus residence of the cape. BLD Thetford Reef Cairns 2 Bird Lodge Sudbury Cay 1 Cooktown Fitzroy Island Bloomfield Track Laura Day 9. Punsand Bay, Thursday Island. Gilbey Reef Cape Tribulation Cruise across Endeavour Strait to Thursday Island Wheeler Island Daintree River 1 Daintree and join a local guide to discover the island’s Mossman Gorge National Park Hinchinbrook QLD 3 Port Douglas 1 history. Step back in time with a visit to Green Island Coral Hill Fort, then visit the local cemetery to see the Cairns 2 Pelorus Island Expeditions II poignant memorial to the Japanese Pearl Divers. Later, visit the Gab Titui Cultural Centre, which houses a range of contemporary Indigenous art. Stay: Thursday Island, Jardine Motel. BLD

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Day 10. Thursday Island, Horn Island, Cairns. Transfer to Horn Island aboard the local ferry, then take a tour which includes the WWII Base and Torres Strait Heritage Museum. Board an included QANTAS flight over the Great Barrier Reef. Arrive in Cairns and transfer to your hotel. Two Night Stay: Cairns, Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina. BLD Day 11. Cairns. Enjoy a day at leisure exploring the lovely tropical city of Cairns or simply relax by the hotel pool. B Day 12. Cairns, Embark Ship, Fitzroy Island. This morning, board the Coral Expeditions II for your Great Barrier Reef cruise through Trinity Bay. Arrive at Fitzroy Island and enjoy a bush walk, or snorkel over the island’s fringing reefs. Visit the Fitzroy Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre which helps rescue and relocate stranded sea turtles. Three Night Stay: Coral Expeditions II. BLD Day 13. Gilbey Reef, Wheeler Island. Discover beautiful Gilbey Reef at your own pace, viewing many of the 400 different species of coral living in this World Heritage-listed wonderland. Venture in to the warm tropical waters on a guided snorkelling tour or join the Marine

Biologist for a glass-bottom boat ride. For the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience, accompany your Dive Instructor on an unforgettable SCUBA dive (own expense). Travel to uninhabited Wheeler Island and enjoy drinks on the beach as the spectacular sun sets. BLD Day 14. Hinchinbrook Channel, Pelorus Island. Awake to the 22-kilometre stretch of waters that create the Hinchinbrook Channel. Cruise around Hinchinbrook Island keeping watch for dolphins, dugongs, crocodiles and more. Admire the island’s picturesque landscapes of rugged mountains, sheer cliffs and mangrove forests. Later, enjoy exclusive access to private Pelorus Island. Travel ashore for a traditional ‘Aussie’ BBQ lunch. Join a naturalist guide for a nature walk, then enjoy a Farewell Dinner back on board. BLD Day 15. Sudbury Cay, Thetford Reef, Disembark Ship, Depart Cairns. Experience an exclusive mooring at Sudbury Cay and Thetford Reef. Join the Marine Biologist aboard the glass-bottom boat for your final encounter with the reef before gathering on the snorkel deck to participate in a fish feed. After lunch, disembark your ship and transfer to the airport. BL

2016 DATES & PRICES GOCYCE15 – 15 DAY 4WD & CRUISE 2016 Twin Share

Solo Trav.

$9,695

$11,045

$250 $450 $600

$310 $550 $735

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Tides and weather events may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms & conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details. Activity Level: Moderate – includes mainly easy walks and some more moderate.

YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Three-night Great Barrier Reef cruise aboard the Coral Expeditions II 99Daily excursions by tender vessels whilst on board your cruise 99Sightseeing, park and cruise fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD 99Services of a Driver-Guide & Tour Director on your 4WD land journey 99QANTAS flight from Horn Island to Cairns

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Discover Mossman Gorge and set off on a Dreamtime Gorge Walk 99Walk along Cape Tribulation, where the rainforest meets the reef 99Travel the rugged Bloomfield Track, one of Australia’s most iconic Outback trails 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Explore the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve, normally off-limits to the general public 99Journey to the most northerly point of Australia’s mainland 99Enjoy sunset drinks on the uninhabited Wheeler Island 99Take a Hinchinbrook Island cruise, keeping watch for marine life

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Stay at the Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas Resort 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Bramwell Station 99Stay at the Shangri-La in Cairns 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Three-night APT exclusive charter of Coral Expeditions II

FINEST DINING – INCLUDES 40 MEALS



OUTBACK QUEENSLAND

May 23; June 20; July 18; Aug. 15. Standard Cabin Cruise Upgrades – per person Stateroom Upper Deck Stateroom Deluxe Stateroom

(A$)

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS

39

Essence of the Outback 13 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Cobbold Gorge | Karumba | Mt Isa | Longreach | Carnarvon Gorge | Toowoomba

NEW FOR 2016

Take a full day to explore Carnarvon Gorge

Journey off the beaten track on an adventure through Outback Queensland. Enjoy a sunset cruise over the Gulf of Carpentaria, discover largescale mining operations in Mount Isa, delve into prehistoric dinosaur history in Longreach, immerse yourself in the oasis of Carnarvon and Cobbold gorges and hear fascinating tales of pioneers along the way. Signature Invitation

40


Day 1. Arrive Cairns. Upon arrival in Cairns, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner. Stay: Cairns, Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina. D

Day 5. Karumba, Mt Isa. Leave the lush landscapes of Karumba behind today as you pass through four ways and three rivers to Mt Isa. Two Night Stay: Ibis Styles Mt Isa Verona. BLD

Day 2. Cairns, Cobbold Gorge. Today, we travel to Woodleigh Station near Ravenshoe for lunch in the homestead’s garden, then we make our way into the Gulf Savannah region to the tropical oasis of Cobbold Gorge. Stay: Cobbold Gorge Hotel. BLD

Day 6. Mt Isa, Hard Times Mine. Enjoy a full day to explore Mt Isa. Explore the Underground Hospital and Museum, built in 1942 following the bombing of the Darwin Hospital. Afterwards, visit the Hard Times Mine. Descend in the Alimak Cage into the mine, as you learn about the hardship of working deep underneath the earth. Perhaps try your hand at the air-leg drill, and feel the earth shake. BLD

Day 3. Cobbold Gorge, Georgetown. Embark on a guided tour and a relaxing cruise of Cobbold Gorge, set amid 30-metre high cliffs that narrow to just two metres wide. Afterwards, continue to Georgetown. Stay: Georgetown, Latara Resort Motel. BLD Day 4, Georgetown, Karumba. Journey along the Savannah Way to Karumba. Later, board a sunset cruise for a memorable end to your day over the Gulf of Carpentaria. Stay: Karumba, End of the Road Motel. BLD

Day 7. Mt Isa, Cloncurry, Winton, Royal Theatre. In Cloncurry, tour the iconic John Flynn Place Museum and Art Gallery, as well as the Queensland Boulder Opal Shop. Dine at your hotel this evening, before a visit to the iconic Royal Theatre, one of Australia’s few remaining outdoor cinemas. Stay: Winton, Boulder Opal Motel. BLD

Gulf of Carpentaria

QLD

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Step back in time at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame

Day 8. Lark Quarry, Winton, Longreach. Head to Lark Quarry to visit the Dinosaur Trackways exhibit. Continue to the Australian Age of Dinosaurs exhibition for a guided tour of this 1,800-hectare site, home to the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the country. As part of your exclusive experience with APT, you’ll enjoy working with recently unearthed dinosaur fossils in a specialised laboratory. See 100-million-year-old bones and learn how professional tools are used. Continue to the town of Longreach. Two Night Stay: Longreach, BLD Albert Park Motor Inn. Day 9. Longreach. Visit the QANTAS Founders Outback Museum, where you will enjoy a delicious lunch. Afterwards, delve into Australia’s bush history at Stockman’s Hall of Fame. Later, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Thomson River, followed by a three-course drover’s dinner and a theatre show. BLD Day 10. Longreach, Carnarvon Gorge. Travel to the spectacular oasis of Carnarvon Gorge via Emerald, where you will enjoy a guided tour. After a picnic lunch en route, arrive at

Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge, hosting an array of wildlife. Retreat to your safari-style cabin for some relaxation time before dinner. Two Night Stay: Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge. BLD Day 11. Carnarvon Gorge. Enjoy a full day to explore Carnarvon Gorge. Here, towering white sandstone cliffs form a spectacular steep-sided gorge. As Carnarvon Creek winds through the gorge, Carnarvon fan palms, ancient cycads, ferns, flowering shrubs and gum trees line the main gorge. Some of the finest Aboriginal rock imagery in Australia can be found here, including fascinating ochre stencils, rock engravings and freehand paintings. Later, enjoy sensational BLD sunset drinks at Bandana Station. Day 12. Carnarvon Gorge, Toowoomba. Make your way to Toowoomba, passing through Roma, Miles and Chinchilla. This evening, enjoy a Farewell Dinner with your fellow travellers. Stay: Toowoomba, Comfort Inn Grammar View Hotel. BLD Day 13. Toowoomba, Brisbane. Transfer to Brisbane airport for your onward flight. B

2016 DATES & PRICES Twin Share

Solo Trav.

13 Day GOCQ13 May 8, 22ˆ. June 5, 19ˆ. July 3, 17ˆ, 31. Aug. 14ˆ.

$6,795 $6,795 $6,795 $6,795

$7,995 $7,995 $7,995 $7,995

Îtinerary operates in reverse (GOCQ13R).

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Weather events may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms & conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details.

YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99Services of a dedicated Driver-Guide

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Enjoy a spectacular cruise as the sun goes down on the Gulf of Carpentaria 99Work with real dinosaur fossils at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Exhibition in a specialised laboratory, handling 100-million-year-old bones

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Explore the beautiful tropical oasis of Cobbold Gorge in the Gulf Savannah 99Enjoy a tour of the Hard Times Mine 99Visit the John Flynn Place Museum and Art Gallery 99See dinosaur footprints at Lark Quarry 99Tour the fascinating QANTAS Founders Outback Museum 99Learn about Australia’s bush history at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame 99Enjoy a full day to explore the natural wonders of Carnarvon Gorge

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99Enjoy a night at the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel The Marina 99Stay in the heart of Cobbold Gorge 99Two nights in Longreach

Activity Level: Moderate – includes mainly easy walks and some more moderate.

SAVE UP TO $1,000 PER COUPLE#

99Stay in a safari-style cabin at Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge

FINEST DINING – INCLUDES ALL MEALS 99Enjoy 12 Breakfasts (B), 11 Lunches (L) and 12 Dinners (D)

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND

GOCQ13 – 13 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016

(A$)


BOOK BY 15 DECEMBER 2015 41

Essence of the Outback with Reef Cruise 16 Day Small Group 4WD, Cruise & Rail Adventure Carnarvon Gorge | Longreach | Mt Isa | Karumba | Cobbold Gorge | Great Barrier Reef

NEW FOR 2016

Explore the iconic underwater paradise of the Great Barrier Reef

Journey off the beaten track on an adventure through beautiful Queensland. Explore places that most people miss as you immerse yourself in the oasis of Carnarvon Gorge, delve into prehistoric dinosaur history in Outback Queensland and explore a bauxite mine. Conclude with an exclusive charter cruise to the islands of the Great Barrier Reef. Signature Invitation

42


Day 1. Arrive Brisbane, Toowoomba. Arrive in Brisbane and be met by your Driver-Guide this afternoon. Board your 4WD as you head to Toowoomba. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner. Stay: Toowoomba, Comfort Inn Grammar View Hotel. D Day 2. Towoomba, Carnarvon Gorge. Today, make your way to Carnarvon Gorge, passing through Chinchilla, Miles and Roma. Later arrive at your lodge for dinner. Two Night Stay: Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge. BLD Day 3. Carnarvon Gorge. Enjoy a full day to explore Carnarvon Gorge, where sandstone cliffs form a steep-sided gorge. As Carnarvon Creek winds through the gorge, Carnarvon fan palms, ancient cycads, ferns, flowering shrubs and gum trees line the main gorge. Some of the finest Aboriginal rock imagery in Australia can be found here, including fascinating ochre stencils, rock engravings and freehand paintings. Later, enjoy sensational sunset drinks at Bandana Station.BLD

Day 4. Carnarvon Gorge, Longreach. Continue along the Tropic of Capricorn and through the Great Dividing Range to Longreach. Two Night Stay: Longreach, Albert Park Motor Inn. BLD Day 5. Longreach. Visit the QANTAS Founders Outback Museum, then visit the Stockman’s Hall of Fame. Later, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Thomson River, followed by a three-course drover’s dinner and a theatre show. BLD Day 6. Longreach, Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Winton. Visit the Queensland Boulder Opal shop, then head to the Australian Age of Dinosaurs exhibition for a guided tour. As part of your exclusive experience here with APT, you’ll enjoy the chance to work with recently unearthed dinosaur fossils. Travel to Lark Quarry to visit the Dinosaur Trackways exhibition. Continue to Winton this evening, where you will enjoy a delicious dinner and a visit to the Royal Theatre. Stay: Winton, Boulder Opal Motel. BLD

Punsand Bay 2 Jardine River

Gulf of Carpentaria


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Cloncurry McKinlay

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Cairns Karumba 1 1 Normanton Burke & Wills Georgetown Roadhouse

G

Day 7. Winton, Cloncurry, Mt Wenlock Isa. River In Cloncurry, visit the the John Flynn Place 1 Bramwell Station Weipa 1 Museum and Art Gallery. Walk to Combo Archer River Waterhole, the siteSealed of the incident that inspired Road Track Waltzing Matilda. 4WD Later, arrive in Mt Isa and Mungkan Kandju Cruise/Ferry Park Coen absorb breathtaking vistasFlight from Mt National Isa Lookout. QANTAS No. of nights stay Peninsula Two Night Stay: Ibis Styles Mt Isa Verona. BLD Development

PS

Old Telegraph Track

G

Fruit Bat Falls

A

Lotus 1 Day 8. Mt Isa, Hard Times Mine. Enjoy a full Bird Lodge 1 Cooktown NT day to explore Mt Isa. Explore the Underground Bloomfield Track Laura Winton 1 Bladensburg Cape Tribulation Hospital and Museum, then visit Hard Times Mine, National Park Lark Quarry Daintree River 1 Daintree National Park descend in the Alimak Cage into the mine, as Emerald Longreach 2 you learn about the hardship or working deep underneath the earth. BLD QLD Thetford Reef Cairns 1 Carnarvon T

D

I V

Day 13. Cairns, Embark Ship, Fitzroy Island. Board the Coral Expeditions II for the start of your Great Barrier Reef cruise through Trinity Bay. Arrive at Fitzroy Island and enjoy a bush walk, or snorkel over the island’s fringing reefs. Visit the Fitzroy Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre which helps rescue and relocate stranded sea turtles. BLD Three Night Stay: Coral Expeditions II. Day 14. Gilbey Reef, Wheeler Island. Discover beautiful Gilbey Reef at your own pace, viewing many of the 400 different species of coral living in this World Heritage-listed wonderland. Venture in to the warm tropical waters on a

SA

Hinchinbrook Island

3

Roma


guided snorkelling tour or join the Marine Biologist for a glass-bottom boat ride. For the ultimate Great Barrier Reef experience, accompany your Dive Instructor on an unforgettable SCUBA dive (own expense). Travel to uninhabited Wheeler Island and enjoy drinks on the beach as the spectacular sun sets. BLD Day 15. Hinchinbrook Channel, Pelorus Island. Awake to the 22-kilometre stretch of waters that create the Hinchinbrook Channel. Cruise around Hinchinbrook Island keeping watch for dolphins, dugongs, crocodiles and more. Admire the island’s picturesque landscapes of rugged mountains, sheer cliffs and mangrove forests. Later, enjoy exclusive access to private Pelorus Island. Travel ashore for a traditional ‘Aussie’ BBQ lunch. Join a naturalist guide for a nature walk, then enjoy a BLD Farewell Dinner back on board. Day 16. Sudbury Cay, Thetford Reef, Disembark Ship, Depart Cairns. Experience an exclusive mooring at Sudbury Cay and Thetford Reef. Join the Marine Biologist aboard the glass-bottom boat for your final encounter with the reef before gathering on the snorkel deck to participate in a fish feed. After lunch, disembark BL your ship and transfer to the airport.

2016 DATES & PRICES GOCQCE16R – 16 DAY 4WD & CRUISE ADVENTURE May 22; June 19; July 17; Aug. 14. Twin Share

Solo Trav.

$8,645

$9,845

$250 $450 $600

$310 $550 $735

Toowoomba 1

Brisbane

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99Services of a dedicated Driver-Guide 99Spirit of the Outback rail journey from Longreach to Brisbane

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Work with real dinosaur fossils at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Exhibition in a specialised laboratory, handling 100-million-year-old bones 99Enjoy a spectacular cruise as the sun goes down in Karumba 99Enjoy sunset drinks on the uninhabited Wheeler Island 99Take a Hinchinbrook Island cruise, keeping watch for dolphins, dugongs, crocodiles and more

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Tour the fascinating QANTAS Founders Outback Museum 99See dinosaur footprints at Lark Quarry 99Enjoy an interactive tour of Mt Isa’s Hard Times Mine

(A$)

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Tides and weather events may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms & conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details.

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99Stay in a safari-style cabin at Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge 99Two nights in Longreach 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Stay in the heart of Gulf Savannah at Cobbold Gorge

Activity Level:

99APT EXCLUSIVE! Three-night APT exclusive charter of Coral Expeditions II

Moderate – includes mainly easy walks and some more moderate.


SAVE UP TO $1,200 PER COUPLE#

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND

Standard Cabin Cruise Upgrades – per person Stateroom Upper Deck Stateroom Deluxe Stateroom

National Park

Carnarvon Gorge 2

E N G R A

Day 12. Cobbold Gorge, Cairns. Today, we travel to Woodleigh Station near Ravenshoe for lunch in the homestead’s garden, then we make our way to Cairns and enjoy a Farewell Dinner. Stay: Cairns, Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina. BLD

G

Day 11. Georgetown, Cobbold Gorge. Travel to Cobbold Gorge and embark on a tour and cruise of the ancient geological landforms of Cobbold Gorge, set amid 30-metre high cliffs that narrow to just two metres wide. BLD Stay: Cobbold Gorge Hotel.

Wheeler Island

I N

Day 10. Karumba, Georgetown. Make your way to Georgetown. Stay: Georgetown, Latara Resort Motel. BLD

Sudbury Cay Gilbey Reef

Fitzroy Island

I D

Day 9. Mt Isa, Karumba. Travel along the Savannah Way to Karumba and later, board a cruise for a memorable end to your day, as you watch the sun go down over the Gulf of Carpentaria. Stay: Karumba, End of the Road Motel. BLD

BOOK BY 15 DECEMBER 2015 43

Savannah Explorer 12 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Cairns | Undara | Cobbold Gorge | Karumba | Lawn Hill | Lorella Springs | Katherine

Embrace the dazzling beauty of Katherine Gorge

From Cairns, travel along the Savannah Way to the remote Top End as you discover pioneering towns, iconic pubs and working cattle stations. Journey from ‘nowhere to nowhere’ aboard the Gulflander Train, explore the western coast of the Gulf of Carpentaria and uncover the hidden wonders of Lawn Hill and Litchfield national parks. Signature Invitation

44


Day 1. Arrive Cairns. Be met on arrival and transfer to your hotel. Tonight, get to know your fellow passengers during a Welcome Dinner. Stay: Cairns, Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina. D Day 2. Cairns, Atherton Tablelands, Undara Lava Tubes. Travel from Cairns to Ravenshoe, located 920 metres above sea level at the top of the Atherton Tablelands. Enjoy lunch at Woodleigh Station then continue to the 190,000-year-old Undara Lava Tubes, a series of underground tunnels formed during a volcanic eruption in the region. Enjoy lunch, then join a Savannah guide for an informative tour. Stay: Undara Lava Lodge. BLD Day 3. Undara, Cobbold Gorge. Travel to Cobbold Gorge, hidden away within a spectacularly rugged sandstone formation. The gorge is extremely narrow, closing to a mere two metres wide in places, with remarkable 30-metre cliffs on either side. This afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise and tour through the waterways. Stay: Cobbold Gorge Hotel. BLD

Day 4. Cobbold Gorge, Croydon, Gulflander Train, Karumba. This morning, journey to Croydon for a self-guided walking tour. After, ride the historic Gulflander Train from ‘nowhere to nowhere’. Continue to Karumba and end your day with a sunset cruise. Relax with a cold drink and enjoy a selection of local produce as you watch a breathtaking sun set over the Gulf of Carpentaria. Stay: Karumba Lodge Motel or End of the Road Motel. BLD Day 5. Karumba, Lawn Hill National Park. Travel along the iconic Savannah Way towards Lawn Hill National Park. Journey to Normanton, then see the famous Purple Pub and Victorian era railway station. Stop at Leichhardt Falls and Camp 119, the most northerly camp of the Burke and Wills expedition before heading off-road into Lawn Hill National Park. Arrive at the property known as Adels Grove. Two Night Stay: Lawn Hill National Park, Adels Grove, in tented cabins. BLD

SM

Darwin

20 GUESTS

AL

1

PS

G

AN AR TE U MAX.

ED

Sealed Road 4WD Track Train Scenic Flight (Included) No. of nights stay

L GRO

U

Gulf of Carpentaria


Limmen River


Explore Lawn Hill National Park

Cox River ah Way Savann

NT


2 Lorella Springs Cairns Cape Crawford Karumba Normanton Gulflander 1 1 Leichhardt Falls Train Undara Atherton Lawn Hill Tablelands Sava 1 National Park n Riversleigh World Heritage Fossil Site

Barkly Homestead 1

Camooweal

2

Flinders River

n Way ah

Undara Volcanic


QLD

Admire the Atherton Tablelands

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS Day 6. Lawn Hill National Park. Enjoy a full day to immerse yourself in the wonders of Lawn Hill National Park. Discover the breathtaking emerald waters and lush vegetation of the area. Marvel at the magnitude of Adels Grove Escarpment. Here, enjoy lunch before having the rest of the day at your leisure. BLD Day 7. Lawn Hill National Park, Camooweal, Barkly. Travel the Gregory Downs Camooweal Road to reach Camooweal township. Cross the Queensland/Northern Territory border and admire the landscape of the Barkly Tablelands. Stay: Barkly Homestead. BLD Day 8. Barkly, Lorella Springs. Discover Caranbirini Conservation Reserve, which protects a number of habitats. Travel to Lorella Springs Wilderness Park, a magnificent one million-acre working cattle station that stretches all the way to the Gulf of Carpentaria. Two Night Stay: Lorella Springs. BLD Day 9. Lorella Springs. Guides from Lorella Springs will lead you along bush tracks to the coast, as well as swim in the waterholes and relax in the thermal springs. Later, take an included helicopter flight over the Lost City.BLD

Day 10. Mataranka, Nitmiluk National Park, Katherine. Head to Mataranka Homestead to SA take a morning dip in the palm-fringed thermal pools. These warm cerulean waters are said to have a soothing effect on aches and pains. Continue to Nitmiluk National Park and step aboard the Nit Nit Dreaming Cultural Cruise where your local guide will reveal the region’s highlights while you’re gliding over the waters of Katherine Gorge. Tonight, enjoy canapés and drinks on arrival at Cicada Lodge, before an exquisite three-course meal. Stay: Katherine, Cicada Lodge. BLD Day 11. Adelaide River, Litchfield National Park, Darwin. Visit the poignant and beautifully maintained war cemetery at Adelaide River, then continue to Litchfield National Park and visit both Wangi Falls and Florence Falls set amongst monsoon forest with a panoramic view. Enjoy a swim after lunch before returning to Darwin, where you will say goodbye to newfound friends at a delicious Farewell Dinner this evening. Stay: Darwin, Mantra on the Esplanade.BLD Day 12. Depart Darwin. After breakfast, your journey comes to an end with a transfer to the B airport for your onward flight.

2016 DATES & PRICES Twin Share

Solo Trav.

12 Day GOCK12 May 10, 23ˆ. June 7, 20ˆ. July 5, 18ˆ. Aug. 2, 15ˆ, 28.

$6,695 $6,695 $6,695 $6,695

$8,045 $8,045 $8,045 $8,045

Îtinerary operates in reverse (GOCK12R).

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary. See pages 70-71 for terms & conditions. #Please see page 33 for SuperDeals details.

99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99Services of a dedicated Driver-Guide

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Enjoy a spectacular cruise in Karumba, as the sun goes down over the exquisite Gulf of Carpentaria 99Travel along the iconic Savannah Way towards Lawn Hill National Park 99Take a magnificent scenic helicopter flight over the Lost City

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Travel aboard the Gulflander Train from ‘nowhere to nowhere’ 99Enjoy a boat ride through the waterways of Cobbold Gorge 99Visit Caranbirini Conservation Reserve that protects natural habitats 99Discover the dramatic coast at Lorella Springs Wilderness Park 99Explore the wonders of Litchfield National Park

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99Stay overnight at the ideally located Shangri-La Hotel in Cairns 99Two nights at Adels Grove in the heart of beautiful Lawn Hill National Park

Activity Level:

99Enjoy a two-night stay immersed in natural beauty at Lorella Springs

Moderate – includes mainly easy walks and some more moderate.

99Stay at the luxurious Indigenous-owned Cicada Lodge




OUTBACK KIMBERLEY QUEENSLAND CRUISING

GOCK12 – 12 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016

(A$)

YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES

45

Savannah Explorer with Reef Cruise 15 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure & Cruise Darwin | Katherine | Lorella Springs | Lawn Hill | Karumba | Cairns | Great Barrier Reef

NEW FOR 2016

Conclude your adventure with a Great Barrier Reef exploration adventure

Uncover the hidden wonders of Litchfield and Lawn Hill national parks, then proceed to pioneering towns, iconic pubs and working cattle stations. Explore the Gulf of Carpentaria, journey from ‘nowhere to nowhere’ aboard the Gulflander Train and traverse the Savannah Way to Cairns, where you will board your Great Barrier Reef cruise. Signature Invitation

46


Day 1. Arrive Darwin. Be met on arrival and transfer to your hotel. Tonight, get to know your fellow passengers and Driver-Guide during a Welcome Dinner. Stay: Darwin, Mantra on the Esplanade. D Day 2. Darwin, Litchfield National Park, Adelaide River. Discover Litchfield National Park and visit both Wangi Falls and Florence Falls, before visiting the Adelaide River. Tonight, enjoy canapés and drinks on arrival at Cicada Lodge, before an exquisite three-course meal. Stay: Katherine, Cicada Lodge. BLD Day 3. Katherine, Nitmiluk National Park, Mataranka, Lorella Springs. Head to Nitmiluk National Park and step aboard the Nit Nt Dreaming Cultural Cruise, where your local guide will reveal the region’s highlights while you’re gliding over the waters of Katherine Gorge. Continue to Mataranka Homestead to take a morning dip in the palm-fringed thermal pools. These warm cerulean waters are said to have a soothing effect on aches and pains.

Later, arrive at Lorella Springs Wilderness Park. Two Night Stay: Lorella Springs. BLD Day 4. Lorella Springs. Today, you have a full day to explore the pristine wilderness. Guides from Lorella Springs will lead you along bush tracks to the coast, as well as swim in the waterholes and relax in the thermal springs. Later, take an included scenic helicopter flight over the Lost City. BLD Day 5. Lorella Springs, Barkly. Discover Caranbirini Conservation Reserve, which protects a number of habitats. Admire the landscape of the Barkly Tablelands as you make your way to Barkly Homestead. This evening, enjoy a delicious dinner. Stay: Barkly Homestead. BLD Day 6. Barkly, Camooweal, Lawn Hill National Park. Cross the Northern Territory/ Queensland border along the Gregory Downs Camooweal Road to reach Camooweal. Afterwards, arrive at the spectacular property

Daintree River

Day 10. Cobbold Gorge, Undara. Journey to the 190,000 year-old Undara Lava Tubes, a series of underground tunnels formed during a volcanic eruption in the region. Enjoy lunch, then join a Savannah Guide for an informative tour of the tubes. Stay: Undara Lava Lodge. BLD Day 11. Atherton Tablelands, Cairns. Travel to Cairns via a stop at Ravenshoe, located 920 metres above sea level at the top of the Atherton Tablelands. Stay: Cairns, Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina. BLD

GUESTS

3

PS

G

20

ED

Day 9. Karumba, Gulflander Train, Croydon, Cobbold Gorge. Ride the historic Gulflander Train from ‘nowhere to nowhere’. Arrive in Croydon for a self-guided walking tour. After, travel to Cobbold Gorge, hidden away within a spectacularly rugged sandstone formation. The gorge is extremely narrow, closing to a mere two metres wide in places. This afternoon, enjoy a tour and boat cruise through the magnificent waterways. Stay: Cobbold Gorge Hotel. BLD

Darwin

AN AR TE U MAX.

AL

Hinchinbrook Island

L GRO

U


1 Gulf of Carpentaria


Limmen River


Cox River ah Way Savann

Day 8. Lawn Hill National Park, Karumba. Travel along the iconic Savannah Way towards Karumba. Stop at Leichhardt Falls and Camp 119, the most northerly camp of the Burke and Wills expedition. See the famous Purple Pub, Victorian era railway station and Normanton. Continue to Karumba and end your day with a sunset cruise. Relax with a cold drink and enjoy a selection of local produce as you watch a breathtaking sun setting over the Gulf of Carpentaria. Stay: Karumba Lodge Motel or End of the Road Motel. BLD


Wheeler Island

BLD

Day 7. Lawn Hill National Park. Enjoy a full day to immerse yourself in the wonders of Lawn Hill National Park. Discover the breathtaking emerald waters and lush vegetation of the area. Marvel at the magnitude of Adels Grove Escaprpment, a sandstone area that is normally off-limits to the general public. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore the region at your leisure. This evening, enjoy a tantalising dinner before retreating to your accommodation. BLD

NT


Sealed Road 4WD Track Train Cruise Scenic Flight (Included) No. of nights stay

2 Lorella Springs Atherton Cape Crawford Karumba Tablelands Cairns Normanton 1 1 Gulflander Leichhardt Falls Train Undara Lawn Hill National Park Riversleigh World Heritage Fossil Site

Barkly Homestead 1

2

Camooweal

Flinders River

Sava nn Way ah

1

Undara Volcanic National Park

Croydon 1 Cobbold Gorge

QLD

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS Day 12. Cairns, Embark Ship, Fitzroy Island. Board the Coral Expeditions II for the start of your Great Barrier Reef cruise through Trinity Bay. Explore Fitzroy Island and visit the Fitzroy Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre. BLD Three Night Stay: Coral Expeditions II. Day 13. Gilbey Reef, Wheeler Island. Discover beautiful Gilbey Reef at your own pace, viewing many of the 400 different species of coral. Later, travel ashore to uninhabited Wheeler Island and enjoy drinks on the BLD beach as the sun sets. Day 14. Hinchinbrook Channel, Pelorus Island. Cruise through the channel and around Hinchinbrook Island keeping watch for dolphins, dugongs, crocodiles and more. Later, enjoy exclusive access to private Pelorus Island. Travel ashore and delight in a traditional ‘Aussie’ BBQ lunch. Join a naturalist guide for a nature walk, then enjoy a Farewell BLD Dinner back on board. Day 15. Sudbury Cay, Thetford Reef, Disembark Ship, Depart Cairns. Experience Sudbury Cay and Thetford Reef, then return to B Cairns to transfer to the airport.

2016 DATES & PRICES GOCKCE15R – 15 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE & CRUISE May 23; June 20; July 18; Aug. 15. Twin Share

Solo Trav.

$8,545

$9,895

$250 $450 $600

$310 $550 $735

(A$)

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms & conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details. Activity Level: Moderate – includes mainly easy walks and some more moderate.


YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99Services of a dedicated Driver-Guide

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Take a magnificent scenic helicopter flight over the Lost City 99Enjoy a spectacular cruise in Karumba, as the sun goes down over the exquisite Gulf of Carpentaria 99Enjoy sunset drinks on the uninhabited Wheeler Island 99Take a Hinchinbrook Island cruise, keeping watch for dolphins, dugongs, crocodiles and more

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Explore the wonders of Litchfield National Park 99Discover the dramatic coast at Lorella Springs Wilderness Park 99Visit Caranbirini Conservation Reserve that protects natural habitats 99Enjoy a boat ride through the waterways of Cobbold Gorge 99Travel aboard the Gulflander Train from ‘nowhere to nowhere’

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99Stay at Cicada Lodge 99Two nights at Adels Grove in the heart of beautiful Lawn Hill National Park 99Stay overnight at the ideally located Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina in Cairns


OUTBACK QUEENSLAND

Standard Cabin Cruise Upgrades – per person Stateroom Upper Deck Stateroom Deluxe Stateroom


QLD

SM

known as Adels Grove, located adjacent to Lawn Hill National Park. Two Night Stay: Lawn Hill National Park, Adels Grove, in tented cabins.

1 Daintree National Park

47

Kangaroo Island, Coober Pedy & Lake Eyre 10 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Adelaide | Kangaroo Island | Coober Pedy | Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre | Marree | Clare Valley

NEW FOR 2016

Explore Kangaroo Island’s Remarkable Rocks in Flinders Chase National Park

During this unique look at a very special part of Outback South Australia, immerse yourself in incredible Kangaroo Island, as well as explore Coober Pedy and Kati ThandaLake Eyre. Traverse legendary pathways accessible only by 4WD, such as the iconic Oodnadatta track, then conclude in the wine region of the Clare Valley. Signature Invitation

48


Day 1. Arrive Adelaide. Be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, get to know your fellow passengers and Driver-Guide during a Welcome Dinner. Stay: Adelaide, The Playford Hotel. D Day 2. Adelaide, Kangaroo Island. This morning, travel to Cape Jervis, were you will board the ferry to Kangaroo Island. Renowned for its fantastic local produce and unique wildlife, enjoy an incredible two-night stay here. Savour a delicious lunch at Dudley Wines Cellar Door with dramatic coastal views, before sampling some locally-made honey at Cliffords Honey Farm. Later, arrive at your hotel, where you will enjoy a tantalising dinner. Two Night Stay: Kangaroo Island, Aurora Ozone Hotel. BLD Day 3. Kangaroo Island. Today is all about exploring the wildlife and landscapes of Kangaroo Island. Visit Flinders Chase National Park. Here, see the Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch and a colony of New Zealand fur-seals.

Afterwards, enjoy a 2-course lunch showcasing the fine local produce at Kangaroo Island Wilderness Lodge, then continue your exploration of Kangaroo Island at Seal Bay Conservation Park, the only place in the world to get up close to the Australia sea lion. Nearly hunted to extinction in the 19th century, the park is dedicated to protecting this rare species. Later, return to your hotel for a seafood dinner. BLD Day 4. Kangaroo Island, Port Wakefield, Wadlata Outback Centre, Port Augusta. Depart Kangaroo Island as you board the ferry from Penneshaw, returning to Cape Jervis. Journey north to Port Wakefield in the Adelaide Plains. Admire the lush mangroves and wildlife, then see the Heritage Courthouse Museum. Continue to Port Augusta and visit the awardwinning Wadlata Outback Centre. A walk through its ‘Tunnel of Time’ provides the perfect introduction to this region. Continue to your hotel, where you will enjoy dinner this evening. Stay: Port Augusta, Standpipe Golf Motor Inn. BLD

2 Marree

Lake Torrens

Woomera

Port Augusta 1

GUESTS

L GRO

U

NSW

Gammon Ranges National Park

Parachilna


Lake Gairdner

20

AL

PS

G

AN AR TE U MAX.

SM

o

d Tr na d a c a tt a k

Glendambo Walk along the vast salt flats of Lake Eyre

QLD

O

Coober Pedy 2


William Creek

ED

SA

1 Clare Valley

Sealed Road 4WD Track Cruise/Ferry Scenic Flight (Included) No. of nights stay

Barossa Valley Port Wakefield Adelaide 1 Kangaroo Island

VIC

2

Flinders Chase National Park

Discover the underground world of Coober Pedy

Day 5. Port Augusta, Woomera, Glendambo, Coober Pedy. Drive to the town of Woomera, home to an Australian Defence Force base for the RAAF’s Test Range. Visit the Woomera National Aerospace and Missile Park before heading to Glendambo. Arrive later in Coober Pedy. Two Night Stay: Coober Pedy, BLD Desert Cave Hotel (underground rooms). Day 6. Coober Pedy. Gain an insight into the history of opal mining during a guided tour of Umoona Mine and Museum. Later, head to Breakaways Reserve to admire its colourful low hills separated from the Stuart Range. This afternoon, you’ll be treated to billy tea and scones. Later, enjoy a tantalising dinner. BLD Day 7. Coober Pedy, William Creek, Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, Marree. Depart Coober Pedy after breakfast this morning and set off along the Oodnadatta Track towards Marree. Board an included scenic flight over this amazing sight. Afterwards, take a 4WD tour to the edge of Lake Eyre, where you’ll be able to walk on the dazzling salt flats. Later, arrive at Marree, where you will enjoy a stay at your historic hotel that dates back to 1883. BLD Two Night Stay: Marree Hotel.

Day 8. Marree. Today, you will gain great insight into the Aboriginal culture of the region, as you embark on a tour to learn about the Arabana people. Travel to Alberrie Creek and see a sculpture park, then travel to the historic long-abandoned Curdimurka Railway Siding. Absorb breathtaking views from the Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre lookout, before continuing vto Finniss Springs, one of the first pastoral properties along the Oodnadatta Track and not normally open to the general public. Here, stop for some billy tea and damper and inspect the fossilised mussel mounds, which were the bottom of the ocean some 150 million years ago. Later, return to your hotel for dinner. BLD Day 9. Marree, Clare Valley. Journey south through the picturesque world-renowned wine growing district of the Clare Valley. This evening, sample some Clare Valley wine while you enjoy a tasting plate of local produce, followed by a Farewell Dinner. BLD Stay: Clare Country Club. Day 10. Clare Valley, Barossa Valley, Depart Adelaide. This morning, stop by the Barossa Valley on your way to Adelaide Airport, where your tour ends. B


10 Day GOKLE10 Apr. 29. May 10, 21. June 26. Aug. 18, 29. Sept. 9.

$6,695 $6,695 $6,695 $6,695 $6,695

$5,695 $5,695 $5,695 $5,695 $5,695

YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99Services of a dedicated Driver-Guide 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Visit Kangaroo Island’s Seal Bay Conservation Park 99Journey along the rugged and remote Oodnadatta Track 99Take a breathtaking scenic flight over Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre 99Walk along the salt flats of the largest inland lake in Australia 99Discover Finniss Springs, not normally open to the general public 99Sample local wine and a tasting plate of local produce in the Clare Valley

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Explore Flinders Chase National Park 99Visit Port Augusta’s award-winning Wadlata Outback Centre

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS per person

PLEASE NOTE: Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms & conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details. Activity Level: Moderate – includes mainly easy walks and some more moderate.

SAVE UP TO $800 PER COUPLE BOOK BY 15 DECEMBER 2015

99APT EXCLUSIVE! Overnight at The Playford Hotel, Adelaide 99Stay two nights in the remarkably beautiful Kangaroo Island 99Two nights underground at the Desert Cave Hotel in Coober Pedy 99Two nights at the iconic Marree Hotel, dating back to 1883 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Overnight at the Clare Country Club


#


OUTBACK KIMBERLEY SOUTH CRUISING AUSTRALIA

GOKLE10 – 10 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016 Twin Share

(A$)


49

The Best of Corner Country 12 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Adelaide | Flinders Ranges | Birdsville | Cameron Corner | Broken Hill | Mungo National Park

Journey all the way to the iconic Birdsville Hotel

This comprehensive discovery of Corner Country can’t be missed. Explore the Flinders Ranges and Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre and traverse legendary pathways accessible only by 4WD, such as the iconic Birdsville, Oodnadatta and Strzelecki tracks. Visit Cameron Corner, discover the heritage town of Broken Hill and uncover Mungo National Park. Signature Invitation

50


Day 1. Arrive Adelaide. Arrive in Adelaide and be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner this evening. Stay: Adelaide, The Playford Hotel.

D

Day 2. Adelaide, Wilpena Pound. Drive through the Barossa Valley and venture into Flinders Ranges National Park and follow in the footsteps of Douglas Mawson as you discover the geological site of Wilpena Pound. Enjoy dinner at your safari camp later this evening. Stay: Wilpena Pound, Ikara Safari Camp. BLD Day 3. Wilpena Pound, Kati ThandaLake Eyre, Marree. Depart Wilpena Pound after breakfast this morning towards Marree. Take a 4WD tour to the edge of Lake Eyre, where you’ll walk on the dazzling salt flats of Australia’s largest inland lake. Afterwards, arrive at Marree and board an included scenic flight over Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre. Later, arrive enjoy a stay at your historic hotel, whose origins date back to 1883. Stay: Marree Hotel. BLD

Day 4. Marree, Birdsville Track. Travel along the iconic Birdsville Track, an isolated dirt road that traverses some of the most arid land in the country. Stop at Mungerannie Roadhouse, then cross the border into Queensland and arrive at the legendary Birdsville Hotel. Two Night Stay: Birdsville Hotel. BLD Day 5. Birdsville, Big Red. Enjoy the morning at leisure to explore the town of Birdsville at your own pace. Later, travel to the Big Red, the first and biggest of the region’s red sand dunes that run for hundreds of kilometres. Later, enjoy a visit to the famous racetrack and the billabong. BLD Day 6. Birdsville, Betoota Serpent, Burke and Wills Dig Tree, Innamincka. Travel to Betoota in the west corner of Queensland to see the enormous sculpture of an Indigenous Dreamtime serpent. After, visit the Burke and Wills Dig Tree, the location where their campsite once stood. Continue to the Innamincka Hotel, a welcoming watering hole for travellers. Stay: Innamincka Hotel. BLD

NT

Mungerannie


SM

Burke and Wills Dig Tree 1 Innamincka QLD

20 GUESTS

AL

PS

Birdsville Track

AN AR TE U MAX.

ED

Cooper Creek

G

Birdsville 2

L GRO

U

Cameron Corner

Sturt National Park

SA

Explore Mungo National Park

Lake Gairdner

Marree 1

Strzelecki Regional Reserve Gammon Ranges National Park


Milparinka

NSW

1 Broken Hill

Lake Frome

1 Wilpena

Sealed Road 4WD Track Scenic Flight (Included) No. of nights stay

1 Tibooburra

Pound

Adelaide 2

Scotia

Mungo National Park

Renmark

2 Mildura

VIC Murray River

Visit Sturt National Park

Day 7. Innamincka, Strzelecki Track, Cameron Corner, Sturt National Park, Tibooburra. Today, visit the Moomba Gas Fields then travel the Strzelecki Track, an important road linking Innamincka and Lyndhurst. Stand at Cameron Corner, the meeting place of the boundary state lines of South Australia, Queensland and New South Wales. Venture into Sturt National Park and see the fascinating 450-million-year-old granite tors. Afterwards, arrive at your hotel in Tibooburra. BLD Stay: Tibooburra, The Family Hotel. Day 8. Tibooburra, Broken Hill. This morning, make your way to Depot Glen, an important site in Corner Country and a significant entry in Charles Sturt’s Journal. Continue to the Milparinka Heritage Precinct, comprising a collection of colonial buildings lovingly restored. The courthouse stores local history and a substantial collection of family history research material, whilst the adjoining cells provide an insight into the region’s remarkable mining heritage. After a picnic lunch here, make your way to the Albert Kersten Mining and Minerals Museum, showcasing the town’s gift of minerals. This evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel. BLD Stay: Broken Hill, Royal Exchange Hotel.

Day 9. Broken Hill, Mildura. Make your way to Mildura, where you will learn about the stories, landmarks and characters of this iconic town. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure. Two Night Stay: Quality Hotel BLD Mildura Grand. Day 10. Mildura, Mungo National Park. Today, you will have a full day to explore World Heritage-listed Mungo National Park. Home of the famous archaelogical finds of Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, explore a place rich in Aboriginal history. Wander the sands of time, and learn about the land’s great significance to the Ngyiampaa, Mutthi Mutthi and Southern BLD Paakantyi people. Day 11. Mildura, Adelaide. On your way back to Adelaide, visit Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre, where you will enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch as well as a wine tasting and presentation. Arrive back in Adelaide and enjoy a Farewell Dinner at your hotel later this evening. BLD Stay: Adelaide, The Playford Hotel. Day 12. Depart Adelaide. Transfer to Adelaide Airport this morning after breakfast for B your onward flight.

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99Services of a dedicated Driver-Guide 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Walk along the salt flats of the largest inland lake in Australia 99Take a breathtaking scenic flight over Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre 99Travel along the iconic Birdsville Track and traverse Australia’s most arid and isolated landscapes

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Admire Flinders Ranges National Park and Wilpena Pound 99See the sand dunes of Big Red 99Travel on the iconic Strzelecki Track 99Stand at Cameron Corner 99Discover Sturt National Park 99See Depot Glen in Corner Country 99Visit the heritage precinct of Milparinka


12 Day GOBM12 May 31ˆ. June 14. July 11ˆ, 23. Aug. 5.

$7,145 $7,145 $7,145 $7,145

$6,195 $6,195 $6,195 $6,195

Îtinerary operates in reverse (GOBM12R).

99Explore Mungo National Park per person

PLEASE NOTE: Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. Please see pages 70-71 for terms & conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details. Activity Level: Moderate – includes mainly easy walks and some more moderate.

SAVE UP TO $1,000 PER COUPLE# BOOK BY 15 DECEMBER 2015

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Enjoy two nights at The Playford Hotel Adelaide 99Stay at Ikara Safari Camp in Wilpena Pound 99Enjoy two nights at the legendary Birdsville Hotel 99Enjoy a stay at Broken Hill’s boutique Royal Exchange Hotel


OUTBACK KIMBERLEY SOUTH CRUISING AUSTRALIA

GOBM12 – 12 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016 Twin Share

(A$)

51

Kakadu & Tiwi Explorer 10 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Darwin | Kakadu National Park | Arnhem Land | Katherine | Tiwi Islands

NEW FOR 2016

Spot the abundant wildlife during your Yellow Water Billabong cruise

On the ultimate discovery of the Top End, journey through the Mary River Wetlands and cruise along the East Alligator River. Immerse yourself in spiritual Arnhem Land and glide along the Yellow Water Billabong, before exploring Nitmiluk National Park. Conclude with a unique cultural and remarkable wildlife discovery of the untouched Tiwi Islands. Signature Invitation 52


Day 1. Arrive Darwin. Arrive in Darwin and be transferred to your hotel. This evening, get to know you Driver-Guide and fellow travellers at a Welcome Dinner. Stay: Darwin, Mantra on the Esplanade. D Day 2. Darwin, Mary River Wetlands, Leichhardt Point. Journey to the magnificent Mary River Wetlands. Approximately 170km from Darwin, you’ll discover a natural wonderland home to the world’s highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles and a myriad of active birdlife and colourful flora. Choose between a variety of walking trails taking in termite mounds, wallabies, birdlife and the occasional buffalo wallowing in the wetland mud. In the late afternoon, journey through forests and savannah to watch the sunset over the wetlands from Leichhardt Point. Tonight, enjoy a delicious dinner during your stay at Wildman Wilderness Lodge, offering luxurious accommodation in this remote region. Stay: Wildman Wilderness Lodge.BLD

Day 3. Ubirr, Aboriginal Rock Art, Guluyambi Cruise. Travel into Kakadu National Park and visit Ubirr with its galleries of rock art and magnificent views across the Nadab Plains. Journey along the East Alligator River on the Guluyambi Cruise. An Aboriginal guide will explain the culture, history and wildlife of the region. Later, arrive at Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge, located in a restricted area of Kakadu. Two Night Stay: Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge.BLD Day 4. Arnhem Land, Hawk Dreaming, Cannon Hill. Accompanied by a local guide, cross the East Alligator River into the magical and spiritual Arnhem Land. Experience the ancient art and natural beauty of a region that is normally inaccessible to most travellers. This afternoon, return to Kakadu and enjoy the art and billabongs of Cannon Hill and Hawk Dreaming. (Please note, order of touring may vary. Arnhem Land may be inaccessible for BLD cultural reasons or tidal conditions).

GUESTS

Melville Island 2

PS

G

SM

Day 8. Melville Island. The Tiwi Islands comprise Melville Island, Bathurst Island and nine smaller uninhabited islands. For the next two days, you will discover the unique culture and wildlife of Melville Island. You will also have exclusive use of your private lodge throughout your discovery. (Please note the following order

20

AL

L GRO

U

Darwin 2

Wildman Wilderness Lodge

1

Sealed Road 4WD Track Flight (Included) No. of nights stay

Edith Falls Nitmiluk National Park 1 Katherine

Litchfield National Park Katherine River

WA

NT

of touring may vary). Board a fascinating private charter wildlife cruise along Goose Creek. Keep an eye out for crocodiles, buffalo, brolgas, jabirus and sea eagles. At the end of the day, savour a sensational sunset from your lodge before enjoying dinner later in the evening. BLD Day 9. Melville Island, Darwin. Gain a greater insight into the Indigenous way of life in the Tiwi Islands with a visit to the Jilimara Art Centre and Tiwi Museum. Here, you will be able to talk to the artists about their wood carvings of birds or their unique designs on woven cotton and delicate silks. After your second day of exploring the Tiwi Islands, board your return flight back to Darwin, where you will then transfer to your Darwin hotel. This evening, farewell newfound friends during a tantalising Farewell Dinner. BLD Stay: Darwin, Mantra on the Esplanade.

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99The services of an expert Driver-Guide 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD 99Return flight between Darwin and Melville Island

99Board a fascinating wildlife cruise along Goose Creek. Keep an eye out for the plethora of wildlife, including crocodiles, buffalo, brolgas, jabirus and sea eagles 99Gain a greater insight into the Indigenous way of life in the Tiwi Islands with a visit to the Jilimara Art Centre and Tiwi Museum

Solo Trav.

10 Day GOKT10 June 10, 20. July 1, 11, 17, 27.

$9,145 $9,145

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Tides and weather events may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms & conditions. #Please see page 33 for SuperDeals details.

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Journey to the magnificent Mary River Wetlands, keeping an eye out for crocodiles and birdlife 99Admire amazing wildlife during your Yellow Water Billabong cruise 99Explore the wonders of Nitmiluk National Park

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99Retreat to your private safari tent at Wildman Wilderness Lodge

Activity Level:

99Stay at the exquisite Cicada Lodge

Moderate – includes mainly easy walks with some more moderate.

99Capture a stunning Tiwi Islands sunset at Melville Island Lodge

UP TO $1,000 AIR CREDIT PER COUPLE# BOOK BY 15 DECEMBER 2015


KIMBERLEY OUTBACK WILDERNESS NORTHERN ADVENTURES TERRITORY

GOKT10 – 10 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016 Twin Share

(A$)

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Enjoy a Guluyambi Cruise and learn about the culture, history and wildlife of the region

Day 10. Depart Darwin. After breakfast, your Kakadu and Tiwi Explorer comes to an end. You will be transferred to Darwin airport for your onward flight. B

2016 DATES & PRICES

This tour is also available without the Tiwi Islands (GOK8). Please enquire for further details.


Nourlangie Rock


$7,495 $7,495

Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge 2 Arnhem Land Cannon Hill

1 Cooinda

Day 6. Nitmiluk National Park. Today, visit Gunlom, a beautiful combination of a natural waterfall and plunge pool. Continue to Nitmiluk National Park and check into your exclusive accommodation at Cicada Lodge, a luxury eco property. Enjoy canapés on arrival, before indulging in a superb dinner showcasing the region’s finest produce. Stay: Katherine, Cicada Lodge. BLD Day 7. Adelaide River, Edith Falls, Darwin, Melville Island. Visit the poignant and beautifully maintained war cemetery at Adelaide River. Continue to Leliyn (Edith Falls). Made up of a number of falls and rock pools with scenic views around the Edith River, you can the take a swim in the inviting rock pools or perhaps take a bushwalk along one of the various walking tracks, which traverse up the falls. Return to Darwin, where you will board your scenic flight to the Tiwi Islands. Two Night Stay: Melville Island Lodge. (Please note that this accommodation has varying room types, and while basic, is clean and comfortable with private ensuites. The lodge is set in an exquisite location, providing access this remote and pristine part of Australia). BLD

AN AR TE U MAX.

ED

Day 5. Nourlangie Rock, Yellow Water Billabong Cruise. This morning, spend time at Warradjan Cultural Centre. The traditional owners of Kakadu National Park wanted to tell their story and you can read of it amongst the displays here. Afterwards, view Nourlangie rock art sites depicting the social and environmental changes through indigenous occupation within the region. The light paints a magical picture over Nanguluwur as you ascend to the viewpoint. Later, cruise along Yellow Water Billabong and spot the abundance of wildlife thriving off the largest river system in Kakadu National Park. This will be a sunset to remember. Stay: Cooinda Lodge. BLD

53

Central Australian Discovery 16 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Darwin | Katherine | Alice Springs | Kings Canyon | Uluru | Coober Pedy | Flinders Ranges

NEW FOR 2016

Appreciate the sheer escarpments of Kings Canyon

Get set for one of the most comprehensive discoveries of Central Australia. Venture into Katherine Gorge and fly over the ‘Lost City’. Enter the incredible Red Centre, home to the national icon Uluru and the remarkable landscapes of Kings Canyon. Continue to South Australia to explore Coober Pedy, walk on the salt flats of Lake Eyre and discover the Flinders Ranges. Signature Invitation 54


Day 1. Arrive Darwin. Arrive into Darwin airport, where you will be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers and Driver-Guide as you enjoy a Welcome Dinner at your hotel. Stay: Darwin, Mantra on the Esplanade. D Day 2. Darwin, Katherine. Depart Darwin for Litchfield National Park, renowned for its stunning tropical waterfalls and swimming holes. This stunning national park’s sandstone plateau supports rich woodland flora communities, including the Darwin Wollybutt Eucalyptus miniata, as well as banksias, grevilleas, terminalias and a wide variety of other woodland species. This afternoon, board an unforgettable cruise through the spectacular Katherine Gorge. Discover the music, stories and ways of the local Jawoyn people as you learn about their spiritual culture. Afterwards, enjoy canapés and drinks at the beautiful Cicada Lodge, before indulging in a gourmet three-course meal. Stay: Katherine, Cicada Lodge. BLD

Day 3. Katherine, Cape Crawford. Today, take in the outback scenery as you make your way to Cape Crawford, the gateway to the ‘Lost City’, where you will arrive at your outback hotel in time for dinner. Stay: Cape Crawford, Heartbreak Hotel (shared facilities). BLD Day 4. Cape Crawford, Tennant Creek. Enjoy a scenic flight over the unique rock formations of the ‘Lost City’. A series of large sandstone outcrops, the ‘Lost City’ evokes the remains of an ancient civilisation. A spectacular sight, this landmark is located in a remote and hard to access area, and a breathtaking flight is the perfect opportunity to capture their stunning natural beauty. Later, visit Caranbirini Conservation Reserve, which plays an important role in preserving the local flora and fauna. This unique area also includes a sandstone escarpment and waterhole. Arrive at Barkly Homestead and enjoy dinner. Stay: Barkly Homestead. BLD

GUESTS

AL

Katherine 1


Ngukurr

PS

SM

20

ED

G

Darwin 1

AN AR TE U MAX.

L GRO

U

1 Barkly Homestead

Tennant Creek Devils Marbles West MacDonnell National Park

WA

Caranbirini Conservation Reserve

Cape Crawford 1

Kings Canyon 2 Uluru 2 Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

NT

2 Alice Springs

QLD

Mereenie Loop Road


William Creek

Coober Pedy 1

SA

O

od n Tr ad a c att k a

Lake Torrens


Sealed Road 4WD Track Scenic Flight(Included) No. of nights stay

1 Marree

2

Wilpena Pound 2

Gammon Ranges National Park Flinders Ranges National Park

NSW Adelaide 11

VIC

See the giant granite Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

Day 5. Tennant Creek, Alice Springs. Today, make your way to Alice Springs via Tennant Creek. Along the way, stop at Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). A living cultural landscape, be in awe as the golden sunlight shines upon these giant granite boulders. Geologically, the marbles were formed from an upsurge of molten rock that cooled and became solid beneath a layer of sandstone. Over time water infiltrated the cracks of these solid structures, breaking down the sandstone, and then the granite. As a result, rounded granite boulders perched on top of each other have been revealed. Karlu Karlu is also recognised as of great cultural importance, with nearly the entire Reserve a registered sacred site, with many stories and traditions associated to this area. Arrive in Alice Springs, where you will enjoy a tour of this iconic township. Two Night Stay: Chifley Alice Springs Resort. BLD Day 6. Alice Springs, West MacDonnell Ranges. Head to Simpsons Gap, just one of the scenic areas that pierce the West MacDonnell Ranges. This sacred area is an important spiritual

Later, discover Glen Helen Gorge, where the permanent Finke River plays an important refuge for local wildlife in the hot summer months. BLD Day 7. Alice Springs, Kings Canyon. Travel to Hermannsberg and visit the Namatijira School of Art, where you can view magnificent authentic art pieces. Enjoy lunch at Gosses Bluff crater before venturing along the famous Mereenie Loop Road to Kings Canyon. Set in a private part of Kings Creek Station among the Desert Oak trees, Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge will be a stay to cherish. This exclusive property is a fully operational cattle and camel station of 1,800 square kilometres, owned and operated by Ian and Lynn Conway. This evening, gourmet Australian cuisine is served around the fire under the stars of the southern sky. Sample delicacies such as camel, kangaroo and barramundi, while you enjoy the serenity as you relax around the campfire. After dinner, perhaps enjoy a tour of the night sky, before retreating to your private tented cabin. Two Night Stay: EXCLUSIVE! Kings Canyon BLD Wilderness Lodge.

Explore Flinders Ranges National Park

OUTBACK NORTHERN TERRITORY

Take in breathtaking vistas of the West MacDonnell Ranges

site to the Arrarnta Aboriginal people, where several dreamtime stories have said to take place. The area also contains one of the most prominent waterholes in the region. Here, be sure to keep an eye out for Black-footed Rock-wallabies. Continue to the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park, a vast and spectacular section of the ranges. This is an outstanding example of ancient landscapes shaped over time by climatic elements. Here, cool scenic gorges are important refuges for a collection of plants and animals from the harsh elements, many of which are found only here. The landscapes you see played a significant role in the stories of Western Arrernte Aboriginal culture, which have been passed on to generations for thousands of years. At Angkerle (Standley Chasm), follow a creek where spring-fed pools attract a variety of unique birdlife. The chasm’s European name is a tribute to Ida Standley, who became the first school teacher in Alice Springs in 1914. Afterwards, visit the beautiful Ormiston Gorge, filled with stunning geology and is also home to a variety of unique species, including the Long-tailed Dunnart.

55

Recount your adventures around the camp fire at Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge

Day 8. Kings Canyon. Journey into the heart of Watarrka National Park, where unspoiled bush and red rock canyons create an unforgettable experience. The Luritja Aboriginal people have called Watarrka National Park home for more than 20,000 years. This morning, embark on the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. Venture around the rim of the canyon’s incredible sandstone walls, which formed when small cracks over time eroded to create the spectacular canyons that appear today. After reaching the summit, you will marvel at breathtaking views of Watarrka National Park and the canyon itself. About half way along is the Garden of Eden, a beautiful area of cool waterholes and riverine vegetation. Descend into this green oasis, before heading back to your start point. After lunch back at the lodge, perhaps take a walk to Kathleen Springs. Signs along the track convey stories of Aboriginal culture and the local cattle industry. Follow the trail to a waterhole at the head of Kathleen Gorge. This is the perfect place to sit and enjoy the area’s tranquillity. BLD 56


Day 9. Kings Canyon, Uluru. Today, explore the incredible Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Visit Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), consisting of 36 majestic domes, which form deep valleys and steep-sided gorges. An important Indigenous cultural site, Kata Tjuta translates to ‘many heads’. The tallest known as Mt Olga, towers a staggering 546 metres high. Continue to explore the immense red walls of Walpa Gorge, before making your way to Uluru. In the heart of the Red Centre, the luxury of Sails in the Desert complements the surrounding natural beauty. This evening, enjoy dinner at your resort. Two Night Stay: Uluru, Sails in the Desert Hotel, Ayers Rock Resort. BLD Day 10. Uluru. At sunrise, enjoy a base tour of Uluru, learning about ancient traditions and stories from the Dreamtime while you marvel at this Australian icon. While you circumnavigate this amazing natural landmark, the experience will leave you mesmerised. Rising 348 metres above the plain, this national treasure is higher

than both the Eiffel Tower in Paris and the Chrysler Building in New York. Tonight at your resort, indulge in the renowned ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner under the stars. Begin with canapés and chilled sparkling wine served on a viewing platform overlooking Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, where a stunning sunset awaits. When night falls, listen to the sound of a didgeridoo as you help yourself to a ‘bush tucker’ inspired buffet that incorporates native ingredients such as crocodile, kangaroo, barramundi and quandong. After your feast, retreat to your BLD luxurious accommodation. Day 11. Uluru, Coober Pedy. Journeying into South Australia, make your way to the Umoona Opal Mine, where you will watch an informative award-winning documentary presented in an underground theatre. You will learn about the different types and quality of opals, as well as visiting a mine that was worked in the 1920s. Stay: Coober Pedy, Desert Cave Hotel (underground rooms). BLD

Enjoy a base tour of Australia’s icon, Uluru

Day 12. Coober Pedy, Marree. This morning after breakfast, journey along the iconic Oodnadatta Track, where we will make a stop at William Creek for lunch. Be sure to keep an eye out for the 5,600-kilometre Dog Fence. You will also have the option to board an included scenic flight over the awe-inspiring Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre, where you will gain a bird’s-eye view and true appreciation of this magnificent sight (own expense). Afterwards, take a tour to the edge of Lake Eyre, where you’ll be able to walk on the dazzling salt flats. Later, arrive at Marree and stay at your historic hotel that dates back to 1883. Stay: Marree Hotel. BLD

Day 14. Flinders Ranges. Today you will have a full day to explore the incredible Flinders Ranges National Park. Commence the day with a scenic drive of Bunyeroo Valley, one of the main gorges which runs through the Heysen Range towards Lake Torrens. The drive offers sensational views of the range, as well as the chance to spot some kangaroos and euros. Afterwards, spend the morning in the geological site of Brachina Gorge. Keep an eye out for the endangered Yellow-footed Rock-wallaby as you traverse the gorge’s layers, dating back some 130 million years. After lunch, the afternoon is at your leisure to further explore, or perhaps enoy some time to relax. This evening, enjoy dinner back at your resort. BLD

Day 13. Marree, Flinders Ranges. Depart Marree for the Flinders Ranges. Enter Flinders Ranges National Park, a cultural, historical and geological wonder renowned for its spectacular 800-million-year-old landscapes. Within the park, the famous Wilpena Pound (Ikara), is cradled within an amphitheatre of mountains. Set amongst river red gums and native pines, Ikara Safari Camp is the perfect base for exploring Wilpena Pound National Park. This is the ultimate wilderness experience, with a few of life’s modern luxuries included, allowing you to stay surrounded by sprawling bushland. Two Night Stay: Wilpena Pound, Ikara Safari Camp. BLD

Day 15. Flinders Ranges, Clare Valley, Adelaide. After a tantalising breakfast, farewell the Flinders Rangers as you make your way through the wine growing district of the Clare Valley as you return to Adelaide. This evening, say goodbye to newfound friends and your Driver-Guide during a delicious Farewell Dinner at your hotel. Stay: Adelaide, The Playford Hotel. BLD Day 16. Depart Adelaide. Your amazing adventure draws to a close. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Adelaide airport for your onward flight.


16 Day GODA16 Apr. 5, 22ˆ. Sept. 10, 22, 27ˆ. Oct. 10ˆ.

$11,045 $11,045 $11,045

$8,995 $8,995 $8,995

YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99The services of an expert Driver-Guide 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Enjoy a Guluyambi Cruise along the East Alligator River 99Board a breathtaking scenic flight over the ‘Lost City’ 99Embark on the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, offering rewarding views at the summit 99Journey along the rugged and remote Oodnadatta Track 99Walk along the salt flats of the largest inland lake in Australia

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Explore Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) 99Visit Simpsons Gap, the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park, Standley Chasm and Ormiston Gorge 99Discover Kata Tjuta (the Olgas)

B

99Enjoy a base tour around the national icon of Uluru and a ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner overlooking Uluru 99Explore the wonders of Wilpena Pound and Flinders Ranges National Park

(A$)

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms and conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details.

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99Relax at the exquisite Cicada Lodge 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Stay two nights at Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge 99Stay at the luxurious Sails in the Desert at Ayers Rock Resort 99Retreat to an underground room at Coober Pedy’s Desert Cave Hotel

Îndicates itinerary operates in reverse (GODA16R). Activity Level: Moderate – includes mainly easy walks with some more moderate.


99Enjoy a little luxury in the wilderness at Ikara Safari Camp


OUTBACK NORTHERN TERRITORY

GODA16 – 16 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016 Twin Share


57

Pilbara & Ningaloo Reef 9 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Broome | Port Hedland | Newman | Karijini | Karratha | Ningaloo Reef

$5,69

Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Reef Marine Park

From the dazzling coral coast of Western Australia to the red plains of the Pilbara, view the captivating contrasts of this stunning land in all their glory. Begin with Broome’s beaches before plunging into the world of working cattle stations and vast mines. Discover the oases of Karijini and MillstreamChichester National Parks then cruise Ningaloo Reef. Signature Invitation 58


Day 1. Broome. On arrival into Broome, be transferred to the iconic Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa for a day at leisure. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers as you enjoy a delicious Welcome Dinner at the resort’s wonderful Sunset Bar and Grill. Stay: Broome, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa. D Day 2. Broome, Eighty Mile Beach, Port Hedland. After a delicious breakfast this morning, travel south, stopping at the famous Eighty Mile Beach, a spectacular coastline that marks the end of the Great Sandy Desert. Keep an eye out for the migratory birds that call the wetland area home. Later, arrive at Port Hedland. Stay: Port Hedland, The Esplanade Hotel. BLD Day 3. Marble Bar, Newman. Travel to Marble Bar, infamously known as the hottest town in Australia. The name Marble Bar was derived from a nearby jasper bar mistaken for Marble, which runs across the bed of the Coongan River. Later, continue to Newman. Stay: Seasons Newman Hotel. BLD

Day 4. Mt Whaleback Mine Tour, Karijini National Park. Explore the Pilbara mining region as you take a tour of BHP Billiton’s Mt Whaleback Mine, the world’s largest open cut iron ore mine. Get up close with the massive 200 ton Wabco Ore Truck and hear the latest up-to-date information about the current mining projects. Afterwards, continue to the beautiful Karijini National Park, where your eco retreat is located. Two Night Stay: Karijini Eco Retreat. BLD Day 5. Karijini National Park. Enjoy a full day to discover the impressive contrasting landscapes of Karijini National Park. Here, the ever-changing light showcases the intriguing geological structures. Spectacular gorges, crystal-clear waterfalls and leafy verdure provide a luscious setting that contrasts brilliantly with the arid red landscapes of the Pilbara. The tropical climate has allowed a vast range of flora and fauna to thrive here. See the rugged red beauty of Dales Gorge. Perhaps walk to stunning Joffre Falls,

GUESTS

AL

Broome 1

PS

G

20

ED

SM

95

AN AR TE U MAX.

L GRO

U

Eighty Mile Beach


Port Hedland

1

Explore Hamersley Gorge in Karijini National Park

Karratha Dampier 1 Fortescue River

Exmouth 2 Turquoise Bay

MillstreamChichester National Park

Hamersley Gorge

2

Karijini National Park

Cape Range National Park Ningaloo World Heritage-listed Marine Park

Marble Bar

WA

1 Newman

Discover the mining town of Newman

INCLUSIVE INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS located near the eco retreat, or admire the rich red colours from Oxer and Junction Pool lookouts. Later, visit the stunning Fortescue Falls, a rare year-round waterfall that tumbles 20 metres over red rock benches that resemble steps. BLD Day 6. Hamersley Gorge, MillstreamChichester National Park, Karratha. Discover Hamersley Gorge where the refreshing waterfall and picturesque rock pools provide an idyllic haven within the dry and arid landscapes of the surrounding Pilbara. Visit the oasis of Millstream-Chichester National Park, where palm-fringed pools are set against a background of rocky escarpments and rolling spinifex covered hills. Later, head for Karratha. BLD Stay: Karratha International Motel. Day 7. Karratha, Dampier, Exmouth. Depart Karratha this morning. Upon arrival in Dampier, hear the stories of the north-west’s favourite canine on a visit to the famous statue of Red Dog before heading to the salt works. Journey south to Exmouth, gateway to the glorious Ningaloo Reef. Two Night Stay: Exmouth, BLD Novotel Ningaloo Resort.

Day 8. Ningaloo Reef Marine Park. Begin your day with a ride aboard a glass bottom boat. Lay back and relax on board or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Reef Marine Park. Dive into a world where colourful coral, 500 different species of vibrant tropical fish and breathtaking giants live. The reef itself extends a formidable10 nautical miles seaward and encompasses over 5,000 square kilometres of ocean. Stop for a picnic lunch in the idyllic setting of Turquoise Bay. Consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world, you have the opportunity to snorkel its warm waters. Pass the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse on your way back to the resort. Enjoy a delicious BLD Farewell Dinner. Day 9. Depart Exmouth. Your journey concludes with a transfer to the airport.

Kimberley Cruise Extension Ask about extending your adventure with a spectacular cruise of the Kimberley’s stunning coastline from Broome to Darwin.


9 Day GOPE9 Apr. 28. May 8ˆ, 19, 25, 29ˆ. June 4ˆ.

$6,645 $6,645 $6,645

$5,195 $5,195 $5,195

Îndicates itinerary operates in reverse (GOPE9R).

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Events may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms and conditions. # See page 33 for SuperDeals details.

99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99The services of an expert Driver-Guide 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Take a tour of BHP Billiton’s Mt Whaleback Mine 99Absorb the sights of beautiful Karijini National Park 99Relax aboard a glass-bottom boat and snorkel the pristine clear waters of Ningaloo Reef 99Enjoy a picnic lunch in the magnificent setting of Turquoise Bay

B

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Take a leisurely stroll down the picturesque Eighty Mile Beach 99See the stunning red plains of the Pilbara region 99Explore Millstream-Chichester National Park 99Discover the sheer beauty of Cape Range National Park

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99Stay at the iconic Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa in Broome 99Spend two nights at the beautiful Karijini Eco Retreat

Activity Level:

99Two-night stay at the spectacular Novotel Ningaloo Resort

Moderate – includes mainly easy walks with some more moderate.


$800 AIR CREDIT PER COUPLE# BOOK BY 15 DECEMBER 2015

99Enjoy 8 Breakfasts (B), 7 Lunches (L) and 8 Dinners (D) 99In Exmouth, enjoy a sumptuous Farewell Dinner

KIMBERLEY OUTBACK WILDERNESS WESTERN AUSTRALIA ADVENTURES

GOPE9 – 9 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016 Twin Share

(A$)


59

West Coast Explorer 13 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Perth | Kalbarri | Wooleen | Monkey Mia | Exmouth | Karijini | Port Hedland | Eco Beach

See wildflowers in bloom at Wooleen Station

This odyssey is the perfect journey for those looking to explore the coast between Perth and Broome. See the famous wildflowers, discover Shark Bay and meet the dolphins of Monkey Mia. Admire the Pinnacles of Nambung National Park, snorkel the pristine waters of Ningaloo Reef, see the rich red plains of the Pilbara and stay at stunning Eco Beach. Signature Invitation 60


Day 1. Arrive Perth. Be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner this evening. Stay: Hyatt Regency Perth.D Day 2. Perth, Pinnacles, Kalbarri National Park. Travel to Nambung National Park, a striking coastal desert region, home to the eerie limestone Pinnacles. Afterwards, discover Kalbarri National Park, with its vast river gorges. Stay: Kalbarri Edge Resort.BLD

Day 5. Monkey Mia. See the famous wild dolphins that swim close to shore at Monkey Mia. Watch as local rangers undertake a dolphin feeding demonstration for guests (subject to appearance). Afterwards, explore the beautifully pristine Francois Peron National Park. Once a pastoral remote sheep station, the national park is renowned for its contrasting red cliffs, white sandy beaches and sparkling azure waters. Later this evening, enjoy a delicious dinner back at your resort. BLD

Day 3. Kalbarri National Park, Wooleen Station. Travel along the ‘Wildflower Way’ to Wooleen Station. Home to a large variety of wildflowers, witness a blanket of pink, white and yellow Everlasting Daisies from July to October. Stay: Wooleen Station, shared facilities. BLD

Day 6. Monkey Mia, Hamelin Pool, Carnarvon. Visit Hamelin Pool to see the stromatolites, then continue to Carnarvon. Stay: Carnarvon, Best Western Hospitality Inn. BLD

Day 4. Wooleen Station, Shark Bay, Shell Beach, Monkey Mia. Journey along the coast to World Heritage-listed Shark Bay, followed by Shell Beach. Later, continue to Monkey Mia. Two Night Stay: Shark Bay, Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort. BLD

Day 7. Carnarvon, Ningaloo Reef Marine Park, Exmouth. Travel to Ningaloo Reef Marine Park and join a cruise aboard a glass bottom boat at Coral Bay. Afterwards, stop for a picnic lunch in Turquoise Bay. Two Night Stay: Exmouth, Novotel Ningaloo Resort. BLD

A LO O RE E

F

Exmouth 2

Tom Price

2

PS

GUESTS

L GRO

U

Fortescue River

WA

Gascoyne River

Shark Bay

20

AL


Karijini National Park 1 Carnarvon

Monkey Mia 2

G

Eighty Mile Beach

1

Cape Range National Park Coral Bay

World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Marine Park

NING

Port Hedland

AN AR TE U MAX.

SM

View the stromatolites of Hamelin Pool

Broome Eco Beach 1

ED


1 Wooleen Station

Kalbarri 1


The Pinnacles


Perth 1 Explore Nambung National Park

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS Day 8. Exmouth, Cape Range National Park. Explore Cape Range National Park, a spectacular place of rugged limestone ranges, breathtaking canyons and pristine beaches. Cruise along Yardie Creek through Yardie Gorge, admiring the plethora of wildlife, the deep waters and the BLD dramatic red limestone cliff faces. Day 9. Exmouth, Karijini National Park. Depart Exmouth after breakfast this morning and travel to Karijini National Park, Western Australia’s second largest national park. Two Night Stay: Karijini Eco Retreat, BLD in tented safari cabins. Day 10. Tom Price, Karijini National Park. Discover a mine in Tom Price on a guided tour this morning. Then, explore Karijini National Park, where gorges, crystal-clear waterfalls and leafy verdure offer a luscious setting that contrasts with the arid landscapes of the Pilbara. Admire the rugged red beauty of Dales Gorge, home to the picturesque Fortescue Falls – a rare year-round waterfall that tumbles 20 metres BLD over red rock benches.

Day 11. Karijini National Park, Hamersley Gorge, Millstream-Chichester National Park, Port Hedland. Take in the ever-changing light and spectacular reflections at Hamersley Gorge. Later, visit the lush oasis of Millstream-Chichester National Park. Follow the Great Northern Highway to Port Hedland in the Pilbara region. Stay: Port Hedland, The Esplanade Hotel. BLD Day 12. Port Hedland, Eighty Mile Beach, Eco Beach. Stroll along Eighty Mile Beach, where the Great Sandy Desert meets the Indian Ocean. Continue to your luxurious eco resort. BLD Stay: Eco Beach Resort.

YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99The services of an expert Driver-Guide 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD

99Learn about the amazing story of Wooleen Station, made famous by the ABC’s Australian Story 99See the wild dolphins that swim close to the shore at Monkey Mia

Day 13. Eco Beach, Depart Broome. Depart Eco Beach with a late morning transfer to B Broome airport for your onward flight.



99Enjoy a picnic lunch in the idyllic setting of Turquoise Bay

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Visit the famous Pinnacles 99Admire the stunning wildflowers 99Snorkel the pristine Ningaloo Reef 99Discover the amazing landscapes of Cape Range National Park 99Explore Karijini National Park

2016 DATES & PRICES

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Solo Trav.

13 Day GOWF13 June 14ˆ, 28. July 4ˆ, 18. Aug. 1ˆ, 10ˆ, 15, 23. Sept. 9ˆ, 23.

$9,245 $9,245 $9,245 $9,245

There are shared facilities only at Wooleen Station. Events may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. Please see pages 70-71 for terms and conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details.

Îndicates itinerary operates in reverse (GOWF13R)

■

Highlighted dates indicate wildflower season.

Activity Level: Moderate – includes mainly easy walks with some more moderate.


99Tour a mine in Tom Price 99Explore Millstream-Chichester National Park

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Stay overnight at the half million-acre Wooleen Station 99Stay two nights at the spectacular Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort 99Two-night stay at the tranquil Karijini Eco Retreat in the heart of the Pilbara 99Stay one night at the award-winning and luxurious Eco Beach Resort


OUTBACK WESTERN AUSTRALIA

GOWF13 – 13 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016 Twin Share $7,395 $7,395 $7,395 $7,395

(A$)

61

Kimberley, Kakadu & Arnhem Land Explorer 16 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Darwin | Arnhem Land | Kakadu | Purnululu | Kununurra | El Questro | Broome

Take an unforgettable cruise through Katherine Gorge in the remote Top End

Affectionately referred to by our Driver-Guides as the ‘hamburger with the lot’, this comprehensive tour showcases the Top End and the Kimberley. Journey through Kakadu National Park as you cruise Yellow Water Billabong and Katherine Gorge. Explore the spiritual land of Australia’s ancient custodians, before discovering the epic landscapes of the Kimberley. Signature Invitation 62


Day 1. Arrive Darwin. Arrive in Darwin and be transferred to your hotel before time at leisure. Stay: Darwin, Mantra on the Esplanade. Day 2. Darwin, Ubirr Rock Art, Guluyambi Cruise, Hawk Dreaming. Travel across the sweeping wetlands of the Marrakai Plains to Kakadu National Park. Head to Ubirr to explore galleries of ancient Aboriginal art before taking an unforgettable journey along the East Alligator River on the Guluyambi Cruise. An Aboriginal guide will explain the culture, history and wildlife of the region. Two Night Stay: Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge.BLD Day 3. Hawk Dreaming, Arnhem Land, Cannon Hill. Cross the East Alligator River into the spiritual Arnhem Land. Return to Hawk Dreaming as the sun sets. BLD Day 4. Hawk Dreaming, Kakadu National Park, Yellow Water Cruise, Nourlangie Rock, Katherine. Travel into Kakadu and cruise

the famous Yellow Water Billabong. Here, wildlife abounds and a local guide will give you great insights into how the Bininj people use the flora and fauna to support their way of life. At Nourlangie Rock, view Aboriginal rock art, then enjoy canapés and drinks at Cicada Lodge, before indulging in a gourmet three-course meal. Stay: Katherine, Cicada Lodge. BLD Day 5. Katherine, Kununurra. Head to the beautiful Nitmiluk National Park. Step aboard an unforgettable morning cruise through spectacular Katherine Gorge. Discover the music, stories and ways of the local Jawoyn people. Travel into Western Australia and onto Kununurra. Stay: Kununurra Country Club Resort. BD Day 6. Kununurra, Purnululu National Park, Echidna Chasm. Travel to Purnululu National Park, home to the magnificent Bungle Bungle Range. Hike to Echidna Chasm, a spectacular natural cleft in the rock. Two Night Stay: EXCLUSIVE! Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge.BLD

Day 9. El Questro Wilderness Park. With a local ranger, embark on a cruise along the stunning Chamberlain Gorge. After lunch, head to the beautiful Zebedee Springs, a permanent natural thermal spring tucked away in a secluded pocket of rainforest. BD Day 10. El Questro, Gibb River Road, Mitchell Plateau. Journey along the Gibb River Road and ford rivers to arrive at your exclusive accommodation on the Mitchell Plateau. Two Night Stay: EXCLUSIVE! Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge.BLD Day 11. Mitchell Falls, Helicopter Flight. Discover Mitchell Falls, a true highlight of your Kimberley adventure. Begin with a hike to Little Mertens Falls to view rare Aboriginal art. Continue on to Big Mertens Falls before arriving at Mitchell Falls. Enjoy a dip in the river then take a helicopter flight over the spectacular tiered falls back to the vehicle. Alternatively, hike back with your guide. BLD Day 12. Mitchell Plateau, King Edward River, Ancient Rock Art. View unique Wandjina and Bradshaw Art (Gwion Gwion) on the banks of the King Edward River. Stay: Drysdale River Station. BLD Day 13. Manning Gorge, Galvans Gorge, Bell Gorge. Journey to Manning Gorge and perhaps take a swim. Enjoy lunch before heading to Galvans Gorge to see some rock art. Two Night Stay: EXCLUSIVE! Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge.BLD

20 GUESTS

AL

Sealed Road 4WD Track No. of nights stay APT’s Exclusive Wilderness Lodge

PS

G

SM

L GRO

U

Darwin 1



2

King Edward River

1

2

Derby Broome

er R Riv

d

Cone Bay

Gib

1

2

Pentecost River Durack River



Kununurra

Katherine River

Hw y

Cicada Lodge 1 Ord River

El Questro


Cannon Hill

r to

ia

Mitchell Falls Kalumburu Emma 2 Road Gorge Wilderness Lodge Drysdale River Station 1

b

Day 8. Purnululu National Park, El Questro. Farewell the Bungle Bungle Range and travel to El Questro Wilderness Park, a million-acre cattle station in the heart of the Kimberley. Stay two nights immersed in nature, the perfect setting to explore this ancient land. Two Night Stay: Emma Gorge Resort in the picturesque El Questro Wilderness Park. BLD

AN AR TE U MAX.

ED

Day 7. Purnululu National Park, Cathedral Gorge, Piccaninny Creek. Hike through Piccaninny Creek to Cathedral Gorge. Perhaps take an optional helicopter flight (own expense). Enjoy drinks as the sun sets over the Bungle Bungle Range.BLD

Vic

Lake Argyle

2

NT



Fitzroy River

WA

Day 14. Bell Gorge, Hiking and Swimming. Journey along the Gibb River Road into King Leopold Range National Park to Bell Gorge. Here, stunning cliffs surround a series of tiered waterholes. Enjoy a picnic lunch then take a dip below the waterfall or go bird-watching. BLD Day 15. Bell Gorge, Windjana Gorge, Tunnel Creek, Broome. Admire the ancient marine fossils embedded in the walls of Windjana Gorge. Continue to Tunnel Creek and wade through the cool waters to the oasis beyond. Later, travel to Broome for your Farewell Dinner. Stay: Broome, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa. BLD Day 16. Depart Broome. Be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE INCLUDES 99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99The services of an expert Driver-Guide 99Additional guides on selected walks 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Enjoy a Guluyambi Cruise along the East Alligator River 99Enjoy drinks as the sun sets over the striking Bungle Bungle Range

B

99Soak in Zebedee Springs at El Questro Wilderness Park 99Take an unforgettable helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls


99Admire impressive Indigenous Wandjina and Bradshaw rock art

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Explore Kakadu National Park

2016 DATES & PRICES GKB16R – 16 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016 Twin Share

Solo Trav.

May 6ˆ, 9, 13ˆ, 24ˆ, 25, 30. June 15ˆ, 29ˆ, 30. July 13ˆ, 18, 20. Aug. 6ˆ, 6, 14ˆ, 22ˆ, 23. Sept. 3, 5ˆ, 9.

$10,295 $10,295 $10,295 $10,295 $9,995

$13,295 $13,295 $13,295 $13,295 $12,895

Îndicates itinerary operates in reverse – Broome to Darwin with some slight itinerary amendments (GKB16).

(A$)

99Torch in hand, explore Tunnel Creek

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Events may cause disruptions to itinerary. APT highly recommends travel insurance. See pages 70-71 for terms and conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details.

Activity Level: Active – this tour contains some longer, more challenging walks.

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99Enjoy one night at Mantra on the Esplanade in Darwin 99Relax at the exquisite Cicada Lodge 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Stay a total of six nights at APT’s fantastic network of Wilderness Lodges, including the new Ungolan Pavilion at Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge 99Stay one night at Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa in Broome


$1,300 AIR CREDIT PER COUPLE BOOK BY 15 DECEMBER 2015

#


KIMBERLEY OUTBACK WILDERNESS WESTERN AUSTRALIA ADVENTURES

16 Day GKB16R

99Discover Windjana, Bell, Galvans and Manning gorges

63

Kimberley Complete 15 Day Small Group 4WD Adventure Broome | Mitchell Plateau | Home Valley | El Questro | Kununurra | Purnululu

Explore the iconic beehive domes of the Bungle Bungle Range

With fewer than one person for every 1,000 square kilometres, Australia’s last frontier is showcased at its best on this epic 4WD adventure. Explore spectacular gorges, plunge into pools and explore the natural wonders, from the stunning Mitchell Falls to the striking Bungle Bungle Range. Along the way, stay at the region’s best stations and resorts. Signature Invitation 64


Day 1. Arrive Broome. Arrive in Broome and be transferred to your hotel. Later, perhaps enjoy an amazing sunset at the Sunset Bar & Grill. Stay: Broome, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa. Day 2. Gibb River Road, Tunnel Creek, Windjana Gorge. Visit the Boab Prison Tree and continue along the Gibb River Road to Tunnel Creek. Later, explore beautiful Windjana Gorge and its surrounds. Two Night Stay: EXCLUSIVE! Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge. BLD Day 3. Bell Gorge. Journey into King Leopold Range National Park, home to Bell Gorge. Take a relaxing dip below the waterfall, then afterwards, join a birdwatching walk. BLD Day 4. Galvans Gorge, Manning Gorge, Drysdale River Station. At Galvans Gorge today, a short walk leads to a picturesque waterhole. Continue to Manning Gorge and enjoy lunch amongst beautiful paperbark trees. Stay: Drysdale River Station. BLD

Day 5. Mitchell Plateau, King Edward River, Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw Art). Cross the Drysdale River and ascend the Mitchell Plateau. Explore the Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw Art) galleries. Two Night Stay: EXCLUSIVE! Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge. BLD Day 6. Mitchell Falls, Helicopter Flight. After breakfast, take a guided hike to Little Mertens Falls to view rarely seen Aboriginal art. Continue to Big Mertens and the mighty Mitchell Falls. Enjoy an included helicopter flight over the tiered waterfalls and the surrounding wilderness back to the vehicle (or alternatively, hike back with your guide). BLD Day 7. Mitchell Plateau, Gibb River Road, Home Valley Station. Rejoin the Gibb River Road and ford the Durack River to Home Valley Station. Experience a true Outback adventure and see where Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Australia’ was made. Stay: Home Valley Station. BLD

2

Kalumburu Emma Road Gorge

Home Drysdale River Station 1 Valley

2

River R

ib

G

Derby

b

Broome

2

1


Fitzroy River

WA

Durack River

Geikie Gorge

U

2 Kununurra Lake Argyle

Pentecost River

d

Cone Bay

L GRO

NT

Wyndham

El Questro


GUESTS

Ord River

1

Traverse the Outback in custom-designed 4WDs

20

AL

PS

G

SM

Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge

King Edward River

AN AR TE U MAX.

ED

Sealed Road 4WD Track No. of nights stay APT’s Exclusive Wilderness Lodge

2



Halls Creek

1 Fitzroy Crossing

Enjoy spectacular views over the Mitchell Plateau

INCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS Day 8. Home Valley Station, El Questro Wilderness Park. Learn about the Indigenous training program and the history of the Kimberley’s cattle stations at Home Valley Station. Later, cross the Pentecost River into El Questro Wilderness Park. Soak in the thermal springs of Zebedee Springs and visit the station township. BLD Stay: El Questro, Emma Gorge Resort. Day 9. El Questro, Wyndham, Parry’s Lagoon, Kununurra. Hike to Emma Gorge and take a revitalising swim. Afterwards, head to Wyndham and enjoy lunch at an iconic Outback pub before visiting Parry’s Lagoon. Two Night Stay: Kununurra Country Club Resort. BLD Day 10. Ord River, Lake Kununurra. After a morning at leisure in Kununurra, journey to Lake Argyle and join a wildlife cruise on the mighty Ord River. From a modern shaded vessel, discover a fascinating ecological system and enjoy sunset on Lake Kununurra. This evening, spend your time at leisure. B

Day 11. Kununurra, Echidna Chasm, Purnululu National Park. Drive to Purnululu National Park and hike to Echidna Chasm, a spectacular natural cleft in the rock. Two Night Stay: EXCLUSIVE! Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge. BLD Day 12. Piccaninny Creek, Cathedral Gorge. Walk along Piccaninny Creek to Cathedral Gorge and perhaps take a helicopter flight (own expense). Enjoy drinks as the sun sets over the Bungle Bungle Range. BLD

99Sightseeing, park and excursion fees 99Transfers to and from the airport 99Small group – maximum 20 travellers 99The services of an expert Driver-Guide 99Additional guides on selected walks 99Travel in a custom-designed 4WD

99Take a breathtaking helicopter flight over spectacular Mitchell Falls 99Learn about the Indigenous program at Home Valley Station

Day 14. Fitzroy Crossing, Geikie Gorge, Broome. Cruise Geikie Gorge before returning to Broome. Enjoy a delicious Farewell Dinner. Stay: Broome, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa.BLD Day 15. Depart Broome. Enjoy some time at leisure today before transferring to the airport. B (A$)

per person

PLEASE NOTE: Twin Share

Solo Trav.

15 Day GKC15 Apr. 29, 30; May 2, 2ˆ, 4, 8, 11, 15, 17. May 19, 21, 23, 23ˆ, 25, 26, 29, 31. June 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 12, 13, 19, 21. June 23, 25, 26, 28, 30; July 2, 4, 6. July. 12, 15, 16ˆ, 19, 21, 25, 25ˆ, 28. July 30, 31ˆ; Aug. 3, 5, 5ˆ, 8, 11, 16. Aug. 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31. Sept. 2, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 19, 21.

$9,295 $9,295 $9,295 $9,295 $9,295 $9,295 $9,295 $8,995

$11,695 $11,695 $11,695 $11,695 $11,695 $11,695 $11,695 $11,345

Weather may cause disruptions to itinerary, especially in remote locations and at the start of the season. APT highly recommends travel insurance .See pages 70-71 for terms and conditions. #See page 33 for SuperDeals details.

Activity Level: Active – this tour contains some longer, more challenging walks.

99Soak in Zebedee Springs at El Questro Wilderness Park 99Enjoy drinks as the sun sets over the striking Bungle Bungle Range

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS 99Journey along the Gibb River Road and Kalumburu Road 99Wade through Tunnel Creek 99Discover the beauty of Windjana, Bell, Galvans and Manning gorges 99Visit Wyndham and Parry’s Lagoon 99Explore ancient Geikie Gorge

ACCOMMODATION HIGHLIGHTS 99Two nights at Cable Beach Club Resort 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Experience six nights at APT’s network of Wilderness Lodges, including the new Ungolan Pavilion at Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge 99APT EXCLUSIVE! Home Valley Station




OUTBACK WESTERN AUSTRALIA

GKC15 – 15 DAY 4WD ADVENTURE 2016

SIGNATURE INVITATIONS 99Admire impressive Indigenous Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art

Day 13. Purnululu National Park, Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing. At Halls Creek, admire the China Wall. Continue to Fitzroy Crossing. Stay: Fitzroy Crossing, Fitzroy River Lodge. BLD

2016 DATES & PRICES

Îndicates itinerary operates in reverse (GKC15R).


65

Deck Plans Coral Expeditions II Deluxe Staterooms

Upper Deck Staterooms

Staterooms

Cabins

TECHNICAL DATA Coral Expeditions II • Length: 35 m • Beam: 12 m • Max. Passengers: 44 • Draught: 2.5 m • Speed: 12 knots

Deck A

Deck B A unique platform allows easy access for snorkelling

Deck C

Absorb the scenery from the expansive Sun Deck

Cruise aboard the Coral Expeditions II

66


Frequently Asked Questions As the Outback experts, we have the answers to your questions. When should I travel?

What’s a standard meal?

The best time to travel is between May and

There’s nothing standard about our meals,

September, which is usually in winter time

they are praised for being plentiful, well

Are APT’s Kimberley Wilderness Lodges licensed to sell alcohol?

within Australia, which is the dry season for

balanced and healthy. Breakfasts – our

Our Wilderness Lodges are licensed to

the tropical regions of Cape York,

sumptuous buffet breakfasts feature many

sell alcohol therefore BYO alcohol is not

Northern Territory and the Kimberley. In

delicious offerings. Choose from cereals,

permitted on tour. The lodges stock a

South Australia and Outback Queensland,

yoghurt, bacon and eggs, pastries, fruit

range of alcoholic beverages for purchase,

the temperatures are more moderate in

juice, tea and coffee. Lunches – a variety of

allowing you to enjoy a pre or post-dinner

the winter time and you won’t feel the

cold meats and fresh salads, homemade

drink (to guests over 18 years-of-age).

scorching heat of the summer.

slices and breads are served with a

For our Western Australia coastal tours,

refreshing drink. Dinners – start with a

the best time to travel coincides with the

delicious entrée followed by a main course

Are there any luggage restrictions?

famous wildflower season. Wildflowers are

comprising succulent meat and fresh fish,

Due to the vehicle size and strict

best viewed between the Pilbara and Perth

served with a variety of vegetables. Then,

regulations for vehicle weight, there is a

after good rainfall from the beginning of

delight over a decadent dessert served with

limited luggage capacity. Please pack your

July through to October. Travelling to

tea and coffee.

required items into one small bag (no hard

Broome during the dry season between June and September is favourable to experience less humid days.

What level of health & fitness is required?

How much time will I spend in the vehicle per day?

suitcases) weighing no more than 16kgs. Alternatively, suitcases are acceptable if they fit within the following dimensions of

Our tours are designed so that if you have

70cm length x 40cm width x 35cm height.

a day in the vehicle, it is after a full day of

If you have excess luggage please arrange

activity so you can rest. It may take us up

for it to be stored at your hotel if returning

As tours visit remote areas and feature

to 8 hours on some days to get to our

to it post tour, or organise for it to be

activities with varying degrees of difficulty,

destination from the time of leaving our

forwarded to the tour’s final destination.

it is vital to select a tour with an activity

origin. Everyday will include stops for

level suited to your health and fitness.

morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea,

A good level of fitness is essential for you

along with a number of toilet breaks.

What about mobile phone coverage and the internet?

to undertake walks in hot conditions and

We may also have the opportunity to stop

In the Outback and Kimberley regions,

over terrain with uneven and slippery

for a swim at any of the gorges or rivers

mobile phone service is extremely limited

surfaces. It is your responsibility to carry

(excluding South Australia & Outback

and only available in major centres.

any medication you require for the tour’s

Queensland), or to see some of the local

Days of phone coverage are few and far

duration and consult your local medical

rock art or places with Outback character.

between, even with Telstra 4G services.

practitioner for any health advice.

Very few hotels have public phones or

What about the 4WD vehicles?

Can clothes be washed along the way?

Our specially engineered custom built

In larger centres, hotels feature coin-

Do I need travel insurance?

Mercedes Benz and Isuzu 4WD vehicles

operated washing machines and dryers.

We strongly recommend you purchase

set a benchmark for comfort and style.

Hand washing facilities are also available.

comprehensive travel insurance covering

Each have air-conditioning, comfortable

On our Western Australia tours, hand

any unforeseen circumstances that may

coach-style reclining seating, state-of-the-art

washing facilities are available at each

arise on tour or before leaving home.

PA system and large tinted windows.

of our Wilderness Lodges (however, hand

(This includes cover for any cancellation

In addition, they are all equipped with a

washing is not encouraged at Bungle

penalties, medical and curtailment

satellite phone, first aid kit, drinking water

Bungle Wilderness Lodge due to water

expenses, remote evacuation and loss

and a fridge to carry medication.

conservation principles).

of luggage, etc.).

internet access.

DECK PLANS / FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 67

Pre & Post Accommodation Make the most of your time in the Outback and extend your stay before or after your holiday.

Cairns, Shangri-La The Marina

Port Douglas, Sheraton Mirage Located on Four Mile Beach and surrounded by 147 hectares of lush tropical gardens, this world-famous resort is a slice of tropical paradise. Stay in a superb Superior Lagoon View guest room, surrounded by seemingly endless sparkling lagoons.

Per person, including breakfast. Twin Share Fromˆ

Solo Trav. Fromˆ

$180

$330

Brisbane, Pullman King George Square Experience comfort and convenience at Pullman Brisbane King George Square, located within walking distance of the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct. Perhaps enjoy a workout at the gym or take advantage of the hotel’s rooftop swimming pool.

Experience the lush comfort of this five-star resort set in the heart of tropical Cairns, where luxurious rooms and ocean views await. From your balcony, watch the sunlight shimmer off yachts docked at the marina, where you will also find an outstanding choice of restaurants.

Twin Share Fromˆ

Solo Trav. Fromˆ

$155

$310

Adelaide, The Playford Hotel


Solo Trav. Fromˆ

$145

$260

Set right in the heart of Adelaide’s thriving arts, culture and entertainment precinct on North Terrace, The Playford Hotel Adelaide is a five-star property. Experience Art Nouveau styling and beautifully appointed guest rooms with luxurious ‘rain showers’.

Broome, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa

Darwin, Mantra On The Esplanade

Located on beautiful Cable Beach in Broome, this iconic resort boasts a range of luxurious rooms set amidst idyllic tropical gardens. Relax at Chahoya Spa and Salon, enjoy the resort’s numerous leisure facilities and choose from a range of exquisite dining options.

Recently refurbished, enjoy the ultimate in comfort and convenience in the heart of Darwin. Mantra on the Esplanade is located just a few minutes walk from the city centre in a prime waterfront location on the Esplanade, overlooking the harbour.


Solo Trav. Fromˆ

$240

$450


Solo Trav. Fromˆ

$160

$265


Solo Trav. Fromˆ

$205

$375

Eco Beach Resort

Perth, Hyatt Regency Situated by the beautiful Swan River, Hyatt Regency Perth is an award-winning hotel that offers superior comfort and convenience. Offering a luxurious experience, this hotel is located just a short stroll from the historic St Georges Terrace, it provides the ideal base to explore Perth.

Per person, including breakfast.


Solo Trav. Fromˆ

$170

$315

Enjoy the stunning white sand and pristine waters amongst the untouched wilderness at Eco Beach. Stay in a stunning Garden View Eco Villa at this luxury resort located just one hour south of Broome. Enjoy dining at Jack’s Bar & Restaurant or perhaps succumb to a treatment at the Day Spa.


Solo Trav. Fromˆ

$175

$320

ˆ Prices are per person in A$ and include breakfast and return airport transfers. All pre/post accommodation rates are based on off-season rates and are subject to change. 68


Touring Extensions Further immerse yourself in the wonders of this iconic part of Australia.

Great Barrier Reef Cruise For the perfect Australian holiday experience, extend your adventure with a Great Barrier Reef cruise aboard the Coral Expeditions II. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, explore Australia’s iconic underwater world filled with brilliant coral and marine life, as well as access private secluded shores on an APT exclusive charter. Four-day exclusive APT charter cruise Tour Code: GOCE4 Prices from A$1,850 per person twin share.

Broome Discovery Enjoy an in-depth discovery of the pearl town of Broome, getting up close to unique wildlife at the Malcolm Douglas Wilderness Wildlife Park, learn about pearl cultivation, perhaps sample a variety of beers during lunch at Matso’s Broome Brewery and take an iconic camel ride along the spectacular Cable Beach. Four-day independent tour Tour Code: GKB4 Prices from A$1,395 per person twin share.

Horizontal Falls Board a scenic flight from Broome to Horizontal Falls for a thrilling cruise as you experience the intense 12-metre tidal currents rushing through two narrow coastal gorges. Described by Sir David Attenborough as “one of the greatest natural wonders of the world”, explore the falls on a high-powered, exhilarating jet boat ride.

Half-day independent tour Prices from A$700 per person.

The Ghan

Three or Four-day independent rail journey Please enquire for pricing at time of booking.

PRE & POST ACCOMMODATION / TOURING EXTENSIONS

Aboard this incredible rail journey of the Red Centre, take in the Adelaide Plains and Flinders Ranges of South Australia on this relaxing journey. Explore Central Australia with a stop in Alice Springs, then uncover the exquisite beauty of Katherine Gorge in the Top End. Conclude your rail adventure in Darwin.

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General Information & Conditions The following terms and conditions (‘booking conditions’) form the basis of your contract with Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd (‘APT’, ‘OWA, ‘we’ or ‘our’). Please read them carefully as they set out your and our respective rights and obligations. By asking us to confirm your booking, we are entitled to assume that you have had the opportunity to read and have read these booking conditions, that you agree to them and that you agree to them applying to your holiday arrangements that you book with us and which we agree to make, provide or perform (as applicable) as part of our contract with you. References in these booking conditions to your ‘holiday package’ are references to the tour or cruise package you have booked with APT. References to “excursions” are references to short trips or tours included or available as part of your holiday package.

Governing Law

These booking conditions are governed by the law in force in Victoria, Australia.

BEFORE YOU BOOK Prices – Deposits – Discounts – Payments

Your booking price will be set out in this brochure unless it is varied by advertising or a special offer, or is changed after the publication date for any reason, including without limitation, to cover changes in government taxes and charges, exchange rate variations, fuel surcharges, airline charges, a force majeure event or other material increases by suppliers. Once you pay your deposit your holiday package price is guaranteed (except for any changes resulting from a force majeure event – see below). For all packages, a security deposit of 10% of the tour price per person is required within 7 days of receipt of booking confirmation. Deposit requirements may vary when booking a special offer. Final payment of the balance of your holiday package price is due 100 days prior to departure, unless otherwise stated in the terms of a special offer. If booking within these time frames, full payment will be required at the time of booking. APT reserves the right to cancel any ticket or booking or to refuse to carry any passenger where payment has not been received by APT within the specified time. All fares and charges are in the local currency. If APT is unable to confirm your reservation, all monies will be refunded.

Cruising – Cabin/Suite/Stateroom Selection

APT will make every effort to assign specific cabins, cabin numbers or locations on the ship if requested but requests cannot be guaranteed. If this is not possible, APT reserves the right to make changes to cabin assignment, within the category booked, without prior notice.

Passengers Needing Special Assistance

Any disability or medical condition requiring special attention must be reported to APT at the time of booking. APT will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of disabled passengers where possible, but is not responsible for any denial of services by carriers, hotels, trains, restaurants or other independent suppliers, or for any additional associated expenses. Vehicles are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. Not all Cruise Ships and decks have elevators. Cabin doors and restrooms on cruise ships are not wide enough to allow access by standard wheelchairs. Wheelchairs and walkers cannot be carried on coaches, due to space limitations. For safety reasons, passengers in wheelchairs cannot be carried on ramps in ports where the cruise ship is at anchor. APT is unable to provide individual assistance to any passenger for walking, dining, boarding or alighting coaches or other transportation vehicles or other personal needs. Passengers requiring assistance (mental or physical) must be accompanied by a companion capable of providing all necessary assistance.

Health & Fitness

Receive a 20% discount off the adult fare when sharing with one full paying adult.

A good level of fitness and health is required to participate on APT’s holiday packages. In some destinations and particularly in the Kimberley, there are extensive sightseeing excursions by foot and which includes climbing of stairs and walking over uneven surfaces and in some cases climbing over rocks and or walking through shallow streams and rivers. Mobility is needed boarding or alighting coaches and cruise ships. We recommend a visit to the doctor and dentist before travelling to remote destinations. It is your responsibility to advise APT of any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect the normal conduct of a holiday package and the enjoyment of other passengers. A Health, Fitness & Mobility Checklist can be requested at the time of booking and is also available on our website. APT is not liable for any injury, illness, or loss of enjoyment which could have been reasonably prevented had we been made aware of a preexisting condition and been provided an opportunity to review. We will not be responsible for any costs associated with cancellation penalties or the return of passengers from a tour, and a refund for lost touring cannot be claimed.

Included in Our Cruise and/or Tour Price

Shore Excursions

Travelling with Minors

Children under 12 years are not recommended to participate in tours/cruises. Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult and share their accommodation with an adult.

Children Under 15

All coach/cruise travel, accommodation, airfares (as indicated in individual itineraries), airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour as indicated by the itinerary, sightseeing, meals, admissions, National Park fees, port charges and the services of a Driver-Guide or Cruise Director or Tour Director as stated in the itineraries.

The timing of the shore excursions on all cruise ship holiday packages may differ slightly for each package. Any published times are a guide only and are subject to change without notice. For cruising, passengers must be able to climb ramps to embark or disembark cruise ships.

Airport Transfers

Many of the hotels and holiday packages included in our late bookings promotions or special offers are also featured in APT’s other main brochures and on its website. Late booking promotions and special offers do not apply to existing bookings unless otherwise stated.

On all tours and cruises, airport transfers are included on the first and last day of the tour as indicated by the itinerary. When booking pre and post accommodation, transfers are only available if pre and post accommodation is booked with APT. No refund will be given for unused transfers. Transfers cannot be re-routed to other pick-up points or destinations. Passengers who miss the pre-booked transfers must make their own way to/from the ship/hotel at own expense. For transfers to be booked, flight details must be advised to APT at least 60 days prior to travel, otherwise transfers cannot be guaranteed. See itinerary pages for any variations to the above.

Not Included in Our Cruise and/or Tour Price

Airfares, airport taxes, laundry, food not on the regular table d’hôte menu, drinks may or may not be included as indicated in your itinerary, excess baggage, fuel surcharges and optional excursions not specified in the itinerary. Extra overnight accommodation is not included at the start or end of the tour if not specified in the itinerary.

Choosing your Holiday

The holidays contained within this brochure are for departures between 1 April 2016 and 31 October 2016. To maximise your enjoyment of your APT holiday and to ensure that it lives up to your expectations it is important that you choose the right holiday package for you. Our brochures contain limited information, however, there is more information online at www.kimberleywilderness.com.au and our qualified staff are available to discuss your options.

Hotels

In more remote locations, hotel standards may not be quite as high as in major centres. APT endeavours to utilise the most suitable accommodation available in each destination to ensure that passengers enjoy high levels of cleanliness, comfort and service. The hotels listed in this brochure will be

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used on almost all holiday packages, however, if a change is necessary for any reason, APT will endeavour to ensure that alternative accommodation is of an equivalent standard to those shown. Hotel rooms are generally not available for check-in before 3 pm and require check-out by 10 am.


Late Bookings & Special Offers

BOOKING & PAYING FOR YOUR HOLIDAY Airfares

Air travel is arranged with independent airlines. APT will arrange air travel as advertised in connection with your holiday package or otherwise arranged with APT. All airfares are subject to flight and booking class availability. Airfares will be booked and ticketed upon receipt of your deposit to avoid price or tax increases. Airport taxes vary for each departure point and routing of airline. Airline schedules are subject to change without notice. Once air tickets are issued, airline amendment and/or cancellation fees apply and, in some cases, are nonrefundable. Name changes and voluntary date and schedule changes will incur fees. APT is not liable for delays or disruptions of air travel. Once tickets are issued APT will have no other liability and will not be responsible for refunding the cost of any services booked in conjunction with the flights.

Out of Date Range Flights

If airlines have not published their schedule at the time this brochure was printed or at the time of booking, APT will estimate the cost of airfares connected with your holiday package. When the airline releases flight inventory and airfares, APT will confirm seats and pricing to you by sending you an updated invoice. Once flights have been confirmed by you and payment has been received APT will issue your ticket/s.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is not included in your holiday package. Obtaining Comprehensive Travel Insurance which includes (without limitation) coverage for medical expenses, loss or

damage to luggage, cruise and land content and airfare charges that may occur due to cancellation, disruption, loss of deposit and strikes is mandatory and forms part of your booking contract when booking a tour. You will be asked to provide the details of your policy before your tour can be confirmed. We highly recommend that you take out a policy out at the time of booking for all tours and ensure it covers for remote evacuations, which may be at a high cost.

Travel Information & Documents

After booking, you will receive an invoice with all important information relevant to your holiday package. We strongly recommend you check the details carefully and read the included information. Please ensure that you check your flight timings carefully on your tickets, particularly early morning departures. Approximately 21 days before departure you will receive your e-ticket for flights booked through APT, together with your final itinerary. However in the case of late bookings, charges or late payment, tickets may be emailed to you.

Special Requests

Where a special request (eg. particular dietary requirements, room location, twin or double bedded room, a particular facility at a hotel, and/or flight seat requests) is an important factor in your choice of holiday, you must advise us when your booking is made. APT will pass your request onto the hotel, airline or other supplier but cannot guarantee that it will be accommodated. APT will also pass on any dietary requests to the airline but we strongly recommend that you check directly with the airline once your tickets have been issued. The provision of any special request does not constitute a term of your contract with us. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. Unless and until specifically confirmed, all special requests are subject to availability.

Credit Card Surcharges

If you pay APT by credit card, surcharges of between 1% and 3% will be added to your holiday package price.

APT Deposit Cancellation Peace of Mind

Applicable when an upfront fee of $75 per person is paid with your deposit. The holiday package can be cancelled prior to the final payment date and your deposit will be retained as an APT holding credit to be used for future bookings. If Deposit Cancellation Peace of Mind is claimed, monies held must be used on a future cruise or tour and cannot be redeemed against the original cruise or tour departure date. Deposit held in credit will exclude fees imposed by third parties, including but not limited to air travel, rail travel and hotels. When booking airfares through APT (including when taking advantage of a special offer that includes air travel), standard airline cancellation fees will apply. In some cases, airfares will be non-refundable. In the event of cancellation, these fees will be deducted from the deposit paid, and therefore the credit being held. APT Deposit Cancellation Peace of Mind applies to new bookings only and is only valid up until 100 days prior to travel. After five years, unused credit funds will incur the original cancellation conditions as per brochure. This does not replace travel insurance, which we strongly recommend at the time of booking.

IF YOU CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY Changes or Additions to your Holiday

If you want to change any part of your holiday arrangements after the invoice has been issued, we will do our best to make the change, but it may not be possible. Any request for changes must be made in writing by the person who made the original booking, or his or her travel agent. If it is possible to make the change, it will be subject to an administration charge and payment of any further costs incurred as a result of the change.

Cancellation Policy

For all holiday packages in this brochure, the following APT cancellation fees apply: Days of Notice:

Fee Per Person

100 days or more

Loss of deposit

99-61 days

20% of package price

60-15 days


14 days or less


All cancellations must be received in writing by APT and are not effective until this notification has been received. If your holiday has commenced, 100% of the full holiday package price is charged. There is no refund for unused services or if portions of the holiday package are missed. Additional cancellation fees may also be charged in respect of accommodation reserved outside the holiday package dates. These cancellation fees are in addition to any fees that may be levied by APT and your travel agent (if any). You acknowledge that the amounts estimated under the Cancellation Policy are reasonable and represent a genuine pre-estimate of APT’s loss. If you request changes after APT has issued your documents, APT may charge you a fee of $70 per person in addition to any applicable cancellation fees.

Cancellation of Ticketed Airfares

An APT cancellation fee of $50 per person applies for ticketed airfares, in addition to any applicable airline cancellation fees.

Changes to Ticketed Airfares

If you wish to amend the date or routing on your ticketed air booking, an APT amendment fee of $30 per person for the first change and $85 for any subsequent changes will be charged in addition to airline change fees and additional taxes that are applicable. If, for any reason, a name change to a ticketed Airfare is required, a $125 per person name change fee will apply for every change in addition to any applicable airline fees.

ON HOLIDAY Great Barrier Reef Cruise – Included Beverages

Complimentary beverages served during lunch and dinner aboard your cruise does not include French Champagne, premium spirits or selected wines – these are an additional cost.

Noise & Vibration

APT takes reasonable steps to minimise noise and vibrations on its cruise ships. You acknowledge and accept that some noise and vibration may be experienced on vessels and that APT is not liable to you for any such noise or vibration.

Seat Allocation IF WE CHANGE OR CANCEL YOUR HOLIDAY Brochure Accuracy

APT has endeavoured to ensure that the information given in this brochure about accommodation, itineraries etc., is correct to the best of its knowledge at the time of going to print. However, advertised descriptions, facilities and prices may change after publication. We recommend that you confirm the details of your chosen holiday package at the time of booking. Additionally, flight times, carriers and routes in the brochure are given for guidance only as there may be changes. Final details will be shown on your tickets. Holiday package or excursion itineraries may change or be different from those described in the brochure as a result of local conditions, weather conditions, annual events. APT will endeavour to notify you of any significant changes prior to your departure.

Flight Changes

The flight timings shown in our brochure, on our website and detailed on your confirmation invoice are for guidance only and are subject to alteration and confirmation. Flight timings are set by airlines and affected by events outside our control. Scheduled and charter flight timings, and days of operation are also subject to change. APT will advise you of any significant changes as soon as it is informed by the airline. Minor timing changes will be shown on your flight tickets. Any change in the identity of the airline, flight timings or aircraft type (if advised) will not entitle you to cancel or change to other arrangements without paying any applicable cancellation fees except where specified in these booking conditions.

If We Change or Cancel Your Holiday Before Your Departure

APT endeavours to provide you with all the services confirmed to you at the time of your booking. However, we plan arrangements a long time in advance of your departure date using independent suppliers such as airline, hotels etc., over whom we have no direct control. On occasions, changes do have to be made, and APT reserves the right to cancel or amend holiday packages/excursions accordingly.

Force Majeure

Force Majeure means the occurrence of an event that is beyond APT’s reasonable control and which could not have been reasonably prevented by APT, which includes, but is not limited to: (a) war, armed conflict, criminal damage, riot, civil strife, industrial dispute, terrorist activity or the threat of any such acts; (b) natural disaster (including but not limited to flooding, fire, earthquake, landslide), adverse weather conditions, road closures, high or low water levels; (c) nuclear or other industrial accident causing environmental pollution or contamination; or (d) change in law, meaning, enactment, amendment (including repeal) in the law or administration of any law in Australia or any jurisdiction or territory relevant to the booking contract, which includes changes in statute, regulation, determination, by-law, declaration, licence and the common law as applicable from time to time.

Termination of Booking Contract or Change of Travel Arrangements Due to Force Majeure

If APT, in its reasonable opinion, considers that any Force Majeure event prevents APT (whether directly or through its employees, contractors, subcontractors and agents) from lawfully or safely providing any products or services subject of the booking contract with you, APT may immediately by written notice: (a) terminate the booking contract (in whole or in part); or (b) change your travel arrangements as reasonably practicable to ensure your safety and invoice you for any additional costs.

Limitation of Liability in the Event of Force Majeure

Personal Belongings & Lost Items

For security reasons valuables should be kept to a minimum and packed in your hand luggage along with your medicines, camera, film, electrical or battery-operated appliances, as well as basic essentials such as a change of clothing and toiletries. It is your responsibility to look after your property at all times and you must ensure you are adequately covered by comprehensive travel insurance in the event of any loss.

Disruption to Cruising & Itinerary Arrangements

Itineraries are intended as a guide only and are subject to alteration without notice. Alterations may be necessary for various reasons including, without limitation, road, river or weather conditions, strikes or other reasons beyond APT’s reasonable control. If conditions render any routes unsafe for navigation, APT reserves the right to provide alternative services including, but not limited to, accommodation on the docked ship or substitute land arrangements. Under normal conditions, itineraries will operate as far as possible as detailed in this brochure. However, sometimes for reasons beyond our control, it may be necessary to make alterations to your itinerary. APT will not be liable for any direct or indirect costs that you incur as a result of any event or other factor beyond our control which necessitates a change in your itinerary. Additionally, you are not entitled to any refund for any alterations to your itinerary that are caused or contributed to by any events which are beyond our control. Where disembarkation is necessary, some services may not be available. APT cannot guarantee exact arrival and departure times for carriers and operators used by APT and APT will not be liable for failure to make connections with any other services or attractions beyond its control.

GENERAL INFORMATION Data Protection Policy

Any personal information (including sensitive information and health information) that APT obtains and retains from you or about you is necessary for our business purposes. Our Privacy Policy details why we collect this information, who we may disclose it to (including overseas recipients), and the main consequences if we do not collect it. Our Privacy Policy also contains information about how you may seek access to, or correction of, the personal information held about you, and our complaint resolution procedures. Our Privacy Policy is available at www.kimberleywilderness.com.au/privacy or by request to us.

Limitation of Liability

1. Our holiday packages include the services of independent providers, such as hoteliers, airlines, cruise companies and other operators, who are not agents, servants or employees of APT. Although we take care in selecting the independent service providers and the optional excursions conducted by some independent service providers, APT is not responsible for the conduct of the independent service providers, their servants and agents or for any ramifications of that conduct. Optional excursions may, depending on your holiday package, include activities such as climbing, exploring, bike riding, swimming and snorkelling. You accept and assume the risk involved with these activities. 2. If, in the opinion of any representative of APT, your mental or physical condition is such as to affect your own health and safety, render you incapable to care for yourself, cause you to became a hazard to yourself or other passengers or result in you becoming objectionable to other passengers or staff, you will not be permitted to embark or continue on the whole or any part of the holiday package. APT is not liable to you for any costs associated with such decision and you will not be refunded for any part of the holiday package. 3. APT accepts no responsibility for any death, injury, illness, loss (including loss of enjoyment), damage, detention or delay (including mechanical breakdown) beyond its control. 4. Any term, condition or warranty express or implied by statute or otherwise in respect of the holiday packages contained in this brochure are excluded to the full extent permitted by law. Nothing in these booking conditions excludes, restricts or modifies the application of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth) as amended, consolidated, supplemented or replaced.

(a) is limited to the re-supply of the products or services or the payment of the cost of re-supply of the products or services to you; and (b) excludes liability for any indirect or consequential losses suffered by you or any third party, howsoever caused, including but not limited to pure economic loss or any special, extraordinary or punitive damage to you or any other party. 6. Your travel agent will forward deposits and other payments to us on your behalf, but your travel agent is not our agent for the purpose of receipt of monies. Receipt of deposits and subsequent payments by the travel agent does not constitute receipt of those monies by us and the travel agent has no authority expressed or implied to receive monies on our behalf. There is no liability on the part of APT in respect to any monies paid to your travel agent unless and until APT notifies you (by way of a booking confirmation advice or payment receipt advice) that monies have been received by APT. APT reserves the right to cancel any ticket or booking or refuse to carry any passenger where payment has not been received by APT within the specified time.

Responsible Service of Alcohol

Our staff are trained in the Responsible Service of Alcohol and are obligated by law to refuse service to any guest who, in their reasonable opinion, appears to be or is intoxicated, or behaves in an aggressive or offensive manner.

Medical Assistance

APT does not employ medical staff on tours. If you require medical attention, local medical services can be contacted immediately. You are responsible for all charges that result from a visiting a medical facility, or for a medical practitioner visiting you. APT is not responsible for the type or quality of the medical services you may receive.

APT Club

Details including the range of benefits are available on our website at www.kimberleywilderness.com.au/aptclub

Smoking

For other passengers’ comfort there is no smoking on coaches or cruise ships, except in designated areas.

Travel Pack and Day Kit

Each passenger on a tour of five days or longer will receive a travel pack and day kit adventure pack.

Service Enquiries

If a problem occurs during your holiday you should, in your own interests, advise your tour/cruise director so that steps can be taken to resolve the matter. If you remain dissatisfied, any complaint must be made in writing to APT within 30 days.

Luggage Limits

Touring is conducted in small 4WD vehicles with limited luggage capacity. Each passenger must limit their luggage to one small/ medium soft bag or suitcase weighing no more than 16kg (35 lb approx) and with dimensions of no more than 70cm length x 40cm width x 35cm height. Cameras, make-up bags etc should be carried separately. ny arrangements required for the transportation of luggage with dimensions or weights in excess of these limits will be at the passenger’s expense and by the passenger’s own arrangement.

Maps Within This Publication

Note that maps may not be to scale.

Images Within This Publication

Some images in this publication are copyright of, and have been reproduced with the permission of Shaana McNaught (Cicada Lodge and Katherine Gorge images), Vaughan Dunn (Novotel Ningaloo Resort Exmouth), Shutterstock, Dreamstime, Alamy, Tourism Western Australia; Tourism Northern Territory; Thala Beach, Ikara Safari Camp, Oceanwide images, Home Valley Station; Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa; Coral Expedition Cruises and Delaware North Australia Parks and Resorts. Publication No. H4724. Prices and itineraries valid from 1 April 2016 – 31 October 2016. Publication is valid from 25 August 2015 and supersedes all previous publications.

Activity Level Tours contain a variety of walks: Easy Paced – contains easy walks Moderate – contains mainly easy with some moderate walks Active – contains some longer, more challenging walks

GENERAL INFORMATION & CONDITIONS

In the event that APT cancels or changes your travel arrangements in any way due to a Force Majeure event, APT will not be liable to you in contract, tort, statute or restitution for any loss (including, but not limited to, loss of deposit or purchase price and loss of enjoyment), damage, costs, charges, expenses or injury resulting from or in connection with (whether directly or indirectly): (a) the cancellation or change to your travel arrangements; or (b) the Force Majeure event. APT is not liable to refund any part of the deposit or purchase price paid by you if APT subsequently changes or cancels your travel arrangements in connection with a Force Majeure event. Force Majeure events are unpredictable and beyond APT’s control. It is your responsibility to purchase travel insurance to adequately protect yourself against these risks.

To ensure all passengers enjoy forward and window facing seats, we have a daily seat rotation system when travelling on vehicles. The seat rotation system is not negotiable for any reason.

5. To the full extent permitted by law, APT’s liability arising under or in connection with these booking conditions:

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APT Travel Centres APT Head Office

International Offices

Level 4, 1230 Nepean Highway, Cheltenham, VIC 3192.

APT International Tours Limited NZ Phone: 0800 278 687 Suite 5 Level 1, 20 Augustus Terrace, Parnell, Auckland 1151.

Enquiries and Reservations Phone: 1800 240 504 Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd (ABN 44 004 684 619. ATAS accreditation #A10825)

Follow APTouring on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn TM & Instagram

United Kingdom & Europe Phone: 0208 812 3400 North America Phone: 1800 290 8687

For Enquiries and Reservations Australia Wide

YOUR TRAVEL AGENT

Call 1800 240 504 Reservations Facsimile: 1800 655 220 Melbourne Metropolitan: (03) 8526 1631 Groups Department: 1800 655 440 Email: [email protected] Visit our website www.kimberleywilderness.com.au

Follow the Sun to the Outback If you would like to watch a brief video to see what you might discover on an APT Kimberley & Outback Wilderness Adventure – please go to our website and view online at: www.kimberleywilderness.com.au/followthesun www.kimberleywilderness.com.au

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