Top Australia Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Reaching the outer Great Barrier Reef requires a boat, gear, and staff who can match the day to your experience in the water. Cruise out from Cairns by catamaran to three dive sites, swimming among the coral and marine life at each. All levels are welcome, with guides on hand whether you snorkel, try an introductory scuba dive, or dive as a certified diver. Buffet lunch and morning and afternoon tea are included.

Sunlover Reef Cruises takes you from Cairns to its own pontoon at Moore Reef, on the Outer Great Barrier Reef, every day. Depart at 10:15am, arrive about 12 noon, spend about 4 hours at the reef and be back about 5:30pm. Unlike a boat-only reef trip, you step onto a two-storey pontoon as steady as solid ground, with room to spread out and set your own pace. A good fit for families and couples alike. Moore Reef is in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, 47 km from Cairns, and Sunlover has exclusive access to its section of the reef. The 9,000 m2 lagoon runs from 1 m shallows to a 15 m drop-off. Snorkel gear and a lycra suit are included, with lifeguards on watch. Non-swimmers see the reef from the glass bottom boat, semi-submersible (weather permitting) and underwater observatory. Kids have a snorkel training area and a 30-metre waterslide. Marine biologists give reef talks, and buffet lunch is included. Operating since 1991, Sunlover is an Ecotourism Australia Hall of Fame member.

Wetlands made Kakadu National Park a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Yellow Water Billabong is one of the most beautiful. Join Indigenous-owned Yellow Water Cruises on a guided journey of discovery among crocodiles, eagles, and reflecting waters. The wildlife, like the light, changes throughout the day.

Watch the dreamy sunset over the Whitsunday islands on this evening cruise, sailing on-board a traditional gaff-rigged schooner. Sip a complimentary glass of sparkling wine and tuck into light snacks as you glide around Pioneer Bay, and experience the beauty of Airlie Beach at twilight as you drift back to shore.

Reaching Moreton Island's clear waters and shipwrecks means a boat trip from Brisbane, easier to book as one package than pieced together. Take an all-inclusive day tour that handles the journey, then snorkel the Tangalooma Wrecks with a guide. Relax on the beach and break for a buffet lunch, watching for turtles, dolphins, and dugongs, which are often spotted in these waters.

Make the most of limited time in Cairns with an easy, half-day sightseeing tour that's perfect for cruise passengers and short-stay visitors. Instead of juggling taxis and timetables, travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle as you visit highlights such as the Cairns Botanic Gardens, Palm Cove Beach, and Barron Gorge National Park.

Experience the Gold Coast’s beautiful Surfers Paradise on a tour aboard an amphibious Aquaduck that transforms seamlessly from bus to boat. Bring the kids and hop aboard this unusual dual-purpose vessel for a jaunt along the area’s picturesque beaches, past local landmarks like Marina Mirage, and along the glitz of Millionaire’s Row.

Experience the thrill of an up-close encounter with migrating whales on this half-day cruise from Brisbane, available only between June and November. Set sail around Moreton Bay on a luxurious high-speed catamaran and tuck into a delicious buffet lunch on-board as you soak up the scenery. Finally, keep your camera to hand as you spot humpback whales swimming and breaching beside the ship – a rare opportunity to spot the gentle giants in their natural environment.

Uncover Melbourne's spookier side on this ghost tour of the city center. Hear ghostly tales that span the history of the city, passing by Queen Victoria Market, the Old Melbourne Gaol, Chinatown, and more. While walking between locations, pause for a drink (own expense) at three bars—each with their own creepy tale. A must-do for any fan of the macabre when visiting Melbourne.

Experience the magic of sailing Sydney Harbour—without fighting the crowds on dry land—during a twilight cruise aboard a restored historic tall ship (traditional sailing vessel with rigging). See the city from a new perspective as it lights up for the evening, and sail past must-see landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. While onboard, enjoy an included dinner—saving you from finding a restaurant after the cruise ends.

Reaching the summit of kunanyi/Mount Wellington without a car is tricky, and Hobart’s sights are spread across the city. An explorer bus takes you up the mountain for time at the summit, with views over Tasmania and walking tracks nearby. Back in town, an open-top, double-decker bus runs a narrated loop with 20 stops where you can hop on and off.

Enjoy an iconic experience when visiting Australia’s Red Centre—a full trek around the base of Uluru. As you start your sunrise walk around the 7.5-mile (12-kilometer) base trail, learn about the monolith’s culture, geology, and environment. Stop along the trail for a picnic breakfast with a close-up view. Your guide tells Indigenous creation stories associated with Uluru. Watch the sunrise, visit waterholes, see rock art sites, and more.

Cruise along the River Torrens in Adelaide with this express option, getting an overview of the area in under an hour. Cover more ground than you would on foot, while also being able to relax on board. Listen to live commentary from the skipper and learn about the historical importance of the river and its surroundings. Check off sights including the Festival Center, St. Peter's Cathedral, Adelaide University, and more.

Swim among the fantastic marine life of the outer Great Barrier Reef on this full-day snorkel and scuba catamaran cruise from Port Douglas. Visit three different dive sites on Agincourt Reef, where you can choose to scuba, snorkel or both. Introductory and certified scuba dives are available, and expert guides are on hand to provide instruction and point out highlights of the underwater world. Enjoy a total of 5 hours on the reef, breaking to recharge with a buffet lunch plus morning and afternoon tea. Hotel pickup and drop-off from Port Douglas is included.

Soak up the sights of the Gold Coast on this lunch cruise that departs from Surfers Paradise and travels up the Nerang River to the Broadwater. Commentary about landmarks that you pass, such as the Southport Yacht Club, Marina Mirage, Palazzo Versace hotel, Wave Break Island, and South Stradbroke Island, offers more info than you'd get alone. Enjoy a buffet lunch with seafood and chicken main dishes, and have the option to purchase drinks at the bar.

Discover Australia’s wildlife and wines on a full-day tour to Healesville Sanctuary and the Yarra Valley. Depart Melbourne and head to Healesville Sanctuary where you get close views of native animals such as kangaroos, koalas, and emus. Continue your scenic drive to the Yarra Valley and arrive at a vineyard for lunch accompanied by a glass of wine. Afterward, tour the winery before moving on to De Bortoli Winery for a wine and cheese tasting.

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders and eventful history of Tasmania on a 6-hour boat tour from Strahan. The first-class catamaran ensures comfort from beginning to end. Cruise through Hell’s Gates, then enjoy a guided visit on Sarah Island, which once housed the island’s most notorious penal settlement. Enjoy a delicious lunch on board the ship, then continue your adventure with a boardwalk tour through the UNESCO listed Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.

Skip the hassle of planning logistics and experience Uluru with a small group, led by a local guide. Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole, follow the Mala Walk, and visit ancient rock art sites while learning the powerful stories and traditions of the Anangu people. End the day at the Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing area, and enjoy an uninterrupted sunset over Uluru with a glass of sparkling wine.

Journey to the majestic chasm of Kings Canyon on this full-day adventure from Ayers Rock. Travel across the rugged landscape of Central Australia, stopping at the Kings Creek cattle and camel station for a taste of Outback ranch life for breakfast. Choose from a strenuous walk to the canyon rim for unbeatable views, or an easier route along the canyon creek bed. Stop for lunch (own expense) at the Kings Canyon Resort.

Explore Melbourne’s charming laneways and opulent arcades on a small-group walking tour. Uncover tucked-away gems like specialty boutiques and local fashion designers, and savor Melbourne’s café culture with a stop for coffee or tea, and a chocolate tasting. Tour numbers are limited to eight people to ensure a personalized experience and for the chance to ask questions.

Hop aboard this evening cruise and navigate the canals of the Gold Coast Broadwater while savoring a buffet dinner prepared by local chefs. Take in views of the Surfers Paradise skyline as you sip a locally crafted beer or a cocktail. This tour is perfect for celebrating a special occasion with friends and family.

Taste your way around the Hunter Valley on this day tour from Sydney. Soak up the scenery as you sample some of Australia's best wine, cheese, chocolate, and spirits during guided tastings at three wineries and a distillery. In addition to visiting local producers, you'll also enjoy a relaxed lunch with wine, craft beer, or cider in a scenic spot in the Valley.

Zip around Brisbane on a fun, self-balancing Segway. Cruise past Brisbane’s riverside sights, glide around the Southbank Parklands, and enjoy dramatic views of Kangaroo Point Cliffs. Choose from multiple tour durations and departure times to suit your schedule and budget. Best of all: full instruction and practice time are provided and there’s no experience necessary, so anyone can give it a go.

Visit the spectacular Blue Mountains and see dramatic cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and waterfalls on this small-group, late-start tour. Enjoy an immersive walk into Wentworth Falls, see the Three Sisters glow in the late afternoon sun, and enjoy stunning views from several lookouts. You also make a stop at a Major Sydney Zoo to see kangaroos, wallabies, and joeys plus koalas.