The Southern Spirit

Friday - Darwin.
On arrival in the tropical Top End capital of Darwin take the chance to explore some local sights, such as the Wharf Precinct, the War Museum or Mitchell Street, before heading off to this evening’s official welcome function. At Darwin’s newest and most popular tourist attraction, Crocosaurus Cove, you’ll be wined and dined as you get up close and personal with giant saltwater crocodiles. OVERNIGHT: Darwin.

Saturday – Darwin, Katherine.
After breakfast at your hotel you’ll board The Southern Spirit. Relax in style as you experience the lush tropical scenery and pass by the World Heritage Listed Litchfield National Park. Listen to yarns from one of the local identities, before arriving in Katherine. Visit the 25 million year old Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge). Be treated to a champagne cruise, antipasto platters, Dreamtime stories and a cultural presentation, before rejoining The Southern Spirit. OVERNIGHT: The Southern Spirit. (B, L, D)

Sunday – Alice Springs.
Draw your cabin blinds this morning to reveal the beauty of sunrise over the red earth of Central Australia. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as The Southern Spirit makes it way to the outback town of Alice Springs. Once in “The Alice”, you can choose from a host of exciting excursions such as a helicopter tour of the MacDonnell Ranges or taking a camel to dinner. The afternoon is yours to explore Australia’s most famous outback town. OVERNIGHT: Alice Springs. (B)

Monday – Uluru (Ayers Rock).
This morning journey past the rugged MacDonnell Ranges en route to Ayers Rock Resort. Travel to the spectacular Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Marvel at the natural wonder of the majestic domes and take a walk into awe-inspiring Walpa (Olga) Gorge. Late this afternoon, as the sun sets on the desert landscape, travel to Uluru to watch the spectacular colour transformation of Australia’s most famous natural landmark. Enjoy a glass of wine and admire one of the world’s most magnificent light displays before dinner under the stars. OVERNIGHT: Ayers Rock. (B, L, D)

Tuesday – Uluru (Ayers Rock), Alice Springs.
Rise early and experience the first rays of dawn setting Uluru alight. Take a guided walk to beautiful Mutitjulu Waterhole. Tour the base of Uluru and learn about the fascinating geology and flora of the region on the Mala Walk or, if you choose, you can climb Uluru for an unforgettable view. Visit the Cultural Centre to learn about Anangu culture. Return to Alice Springs, passing spectacular Atila (Mt Conner) on the way. OVERNIGHT: Alice Springs. (B, L)

Wednesday – Alice Springs, Coober Pedy.
After breakfast you’ll be transferred back to The Southern Spirit for your departure from Alice Springs. Cross the Finke River, view the rugged beauty of the outback and watch for native Australian wildlife as you enjoy lunch. Later be entertained by our guest speaker with tales of bush tucker and balladeers, before heading “ashore” to the extraordinary mining town of Coober Pedy and a New Year’s Eve function to remember, with a unique above and below ground experience, sumptuous dinner as well as a fabulous fireworks display. OVERNIGHT: The Southern Spirit. (B, L, D)

Thursday – Coober Pedy, Adelaide.
Arise to a whole new landscape as we cruise through the gorgeous South Australian countryside. View the stunning Southern Flinders Ranges and the pastoral lands of the Adelaide Plains. There’s ample time to wind-down and relax today, with both breakfast and lunch served on board. In the afternoon we arrive in Adelaide with a whole new set of adventures awaiting as you’re transferred to your accommodation. OVERNIGHT: Adelaide. (B, L)

Friday & Saturday – Adelaide.
Over these two days we have a huge range of exciting excursions to choose from – including food and wine experiences in the Barossa and Clare Valleys, Flinders Ranges and Kangaroo Island 4WD adventures, River Murray cruises and much more. Alternatively, you may choose to set your own pace and explore Adelaide’s cultural boulevard, North Terrace, visit the superb Botanic Gardens or simply watch the world go by from an alfresco café in the East End. OVERNIGHT: Adelaide. (B)

Sunday – Adelaide.
After breakfast join your choice of two fabulous included activities to South Australia’s spectacular wine regions – the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale. Offering boutique wineries, exceptional regional produce and gorgeous scenery, this is an experience not to be missed. In the late afternoon, you’ll return to The Southern Spirit for dinner and the chance to reflect on your recent adventures. Enjoy a peaceful sleep as the train cruises west to our next destination, the isolated town of Cook. OVERNIGHT: The Southern Spirit. (B, L, D)

Monday – Nullarbor Plain, Cook, Kalgoorlie.
Experience the native wildlife of the Nullarbor Plain and the isolated community of Cook, where you can meet the locals – all four of them! Back on board, enjoy lunch and the chance to hear poetry recitals and Australian bush tales. Later, dine while The Southern Spirit makes its way to the mining town of Kalgoorlie where you’ll experience a taste of the mining culture this town is famous for, including a trip to the Super Pit. OVERNIGHT: The Southern Spirit. (B, L, D)

Tuesday – Arrive Perth.
Enjoy a farewell breakfast on The Southern Spirit this morning, as we pass through the beautiful Avon Valley before arriving into glorious Perth and the end of a magical travel experience. (B)