Australia and New Zealand: Cruising the Barrier Reef

January 25 – February 7, 2009

From the peaks of the Southern Alps and Sydney’s shimmering skyline, to the treasures of the Great Barrier Reef and primeval tones of the didgeridoo, the riches of Down Under are like none other. Join us as we visit this world of magnificent landscapes, dynamic cultures, and strong contrasts. We’ll cruise along the Great Barrier Reef aboard the intimate Coral Princess as our onboard marine biologist shares his expertise about the region, and we’ll explore the underwater world by snorkeling or from the comfort of a glass bottom boat. There’ll be plenty of time to experience the remote reaches of New Zealand, with a nature cruise through the mountainous fjords of Milford Sound, and aboard a coal-powered steamer crossing Lake Wakatipu. We’ll stay in bustling and sophisticated Sydney, a city known for its architecture, magnificent harbor, and white sandy beaches. We’ll go behind the scenes at Sydney’s famous Opera House and see the city’s skyline at sunset from the harbor. Our immersion in local cultures will include an introduction to the region’s Aborigines’ heritage and a special dinner at the home of a Christchurch family.

Price: $3,995 plus airfare

A two-night pre-trip program in Auckland, New Zealand is available.

See the brochure for more information, or contact Gail Briggs at gbriggs@wesleyan.edu or call (860) 685-3979.