Embark on an immersive journey through Australia's spiritual and natural wonders with this exclusive program. Begin your adventure in Uluru, where you will explore sacred sites and hear captivating Aboriginal stories for a deeper understanding of its cultural significance. From here, you will venture to Melbourne, immersing yourself in its vibrant culinary scene. Discover hidden laneway cafes offering artisanal delights and explore bustling markets, indulging in a fusion of flavours that celebrates both tradition and innovation.
This Post Cruise Program begins in Sydney, Australia and ends in Melbourne, Australia. Guests will need to fly out of Melbourne’s International Airport. The domestic flights between Sydney, Ayers Rock and Melbourne are included in the cost of this program.
Special Note: Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour. This program is not suitable for guests who utilize a wheelchair or rely on walking aids due to the level of mobility required to participate in each of the activities. Please see further below for luggage restrictions on the internal flights that are included in this program.
Day 1 – January 23, 2026
Disembark in Sydney, meet your tour leader and transfer to the Sydney airport for a flight to Ayers Rock. Upon arrival, you will be driven to your luxury accommodation at Sails in the Desert.
Here, you will have the afternoon free to relax and explore the various tours and activities available at the hotel.
Examples of activities you might consider include workshops where you can learn traditional Aboriginal painting techniques, or perhaps a scenic helicopter flight over the breathtaking landscapes of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Tonight, prepare for a memorable experience as you partake in the Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner. Wintjiri Wiru, which translates to 'beautiful view out to the horizon' in the Pitjantjatjara language, offers a mesmerizing cultural narrative. This immersive experience vividly portrays a chapter of the ancestral Mala story using choreographed drones, lasers, and projections that dance across the night sky, showcasing the spiritual significance of the land.
Indulge in our evening meal as the sun sets, complemented by cocktails infused with local flavors, all while enjoying breathtaking vistas of Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
After an evening filled with delicious food, cultural insights, and mesmerizing views, you will be transported back to your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy the remainder of the night at your leisure.
*Note: The activities are subject to change without notice. Please enquire at hotel reception to confirm operating times. Please be aware that their Indigenous performers are traditional people with strong cultural obligations. Wet weather may also impact scheduled activities.
Day 2 – January 24, 2026
Treat yourself to a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a journey to Kata Tjuta, also known as the Olgas, where ancient rock formations create a stunning landscape. Explore this natural wonder, marvelling at its towering domes and rich cultural significance. After a morning of exploration, enjoy a leisurely lunch at your own expense, to fuel up for the adventures ahead.
After lunch, venture to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park for an insightful journey through ancient landscapes and stories. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Anangu culture as you explore rock paintings, each offering a glimpse into traditional life spanning millennia. Listen to the captivating Tjukurpa of Kuniya and Liru, gaining insight into the spiritual beliefs that have shaped this land for generations.
This evening, you will witness the iconic Uluru sunset, accompanied by a selection of wine or beer and nibbles. After sunset continue to an exclusive venue for a BBQ dinner, with Uluru as your backdrop. Relax with sparkling wine, indulge in a variety of meats and salads, and conclude the evening with stargazing and Aboriginal sky stories.
Day 3 – January 25, 2026
Begin your day with the awe-inspiring sunrise at Uluru, where the captivating Field of Light awaits. Named Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakunytjaku, meaning 'looking at lots of beautiful lights' in the local Pitjantjatjara language, this exhibition represents Bruce Munro's grandest endeavour to date. Encompassing an area equivalent to more than seven football fields, it invites you to immerse yourself in its enchanting garden adorned with 50,000 glowing spindles, resembling a field of glowing flowers or stars against the desert landscape.
After experiencing the dawn spectacle, return to the comfort of your hotel for breakfast, where you can fuel up for the day's adventures. The morning continues with a visit to the Maruku Arts Centre, where you will have the opportunity to engage in a traditional Dot-painting experience, learning about the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Anangu people.
Following the creative exploration, stroll to the nearby restaurant for lunch at Mangata Bistro & Bar, savouring flavours inspired by the region. After lunch, prepare to delve deeper into the wonders of Uluru with a guided tour around its base and the enchanting Mala Walk, where ancient rock art and sacred sites await discovery.
As the day draws to a close, return to the hotel, giving you some leisure time to unwind and refresh. Tonight, treat yourself to a dinner at Ilkari Restaurant, where a buffet of tantalizing dishes awaits. Indulge in a culinary journey inspired by local flavours and global influences.
Day 4 – January 26, 2026
Your day begins with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, setting the stage for a day filled with delectable delights. After check-out, you will board your coach and head to Ayers Rock Airport for a flight to Melbourne.
Upon arrival in Melbourne, you will be greeted by the bustling energy of the city. Check into your deluxe hotel and prepare to tantalize your taste buds as you immerse yourself in Melbourne's vibrant scene. This afternoon, you will embark on a culinary adventure through Melbourne's diverse gastronomic landscape.
Enjoy a progressive dinner experience, where each stop promises a unique gastronomic delight. Along the way, you will be enchanted by stories of culture and cuisine, gaining a deeper understanding of Melbourne's rich culinary heritage. Indulge in a sensory feast as you sample an array of dishes from some of the city’s top dining spots. From the fiery spices of Asian cuisine to the subtle nuances of Native Australian dishes, each bite will be a revelation. Complemented by local wines and cocktails, these carefully crafted dishes will showcase the beauty of regional ingredients and their unique flavours.
After an evening of culinary exploration, return to the hotel and relax in comfort. With the rest of the evening at your leisure, you can continue to explore Melbourne's vibrant nightlife or simply unwind and recharge.
Note: Evening tour Includes a wine-tasting stop with an entree, a main meal at a local restaurant, and a dessert before returning to the hotel; three beverages included.
Day 5 – January 27, 2026
After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, you will be taken to the airport for your onward journey.
Check-out time at the hotel is at 11:00am, and transfers will be arranged according to your flight time.
Land Program Details Step by Step:
•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed.
•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.
Day 1
8:00am Disembark ship in Sydney and board coach
8:45am Transfer to the airport
9:30am Check in for flight
10:35am Flight from Sydney to Ayers Rock (Flight details TBA and subject to change)
1:20pm Transfer to hotel, check-in
1:35pm Lunch on own, afternoon at leisure
5:15pm Wintjiri Wiru sunset dinner
8:30pm Arrive back at the hotel
Overnight at Sails in the Desert or similar hotel
Day 2
7:00am Breakfast at hotel
9:00am Kata Tjuta Walpa Gorge Walk
12:00pm Lunch on own, afternoon at leisure
3:00pm Uluru Sacred Sites & Sunset + BBQ Dinner under the Stars
8:15pm Return to the hotel
Overnight at Sails in the Desert or similar hotel
Day 3
4:30am Uluru Sunrise and Field of Light
6:45am Return to the hotel
7:00am Breakfast at hotel
9:45am Meet at Reception and walk to Maruku Arts Centre
10:00am Dot-painting experience
11:30am Walk to the restaurant
12:00pm Lunch at Mangata Bistro & Bar or similar venue
2:00pm Uluru base tour & Mala Walk
5:30pm Return to hotel, time at leisure
7 – 8:30pm Dinner at Ilkari Restaurant (Buffet dinner)
Overnight at Sails in the Desert or similar hotel
Day 4
7:00am Breakfast at hotel
8:15am Meet at Reception and check out
8:30am Board coach
8:45am Transfer to Ayers Rock Airport
9:00am Check in for flight
10:10am Flight from AYQ to Melbourne (flight details TBA and subject to change) Takeaway lunch
2:20pm Collect Luggage and board coach
3:00pm Arrive at your hotel and check in
4:15pm Dusk, Dine & Discover tour (Including progressive dinner)
7:15pm Return to the hotel
Remainder of evening at leisure
Overnight at Sheraton Melbourne or similar hotel
Day 5
From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel
11:00am Check out time at the hotel
TBA Transfer to the Melbourne International Airport for your flight home
Guests with later flights can store luggage at the hotel until their transfer time.
Extra Nights:
•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the same hotel used on the LAST NIGHT of your program.
•When you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 11:00am (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 5 of your program.
Transfers:
•All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.
•Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.
•Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.
Expected Weather:
Ayers Rock: Uluru: In January, expect temperatures ranging from 21-38°C / 70-100°F. The heat can be intense during the day, so be prepared for high temperatures. Humidity tends to be low, and rainfall is infrequent.
Melbourne: In January, expect temperatures ranging from 14-25°C / 57-77°F. While humidity might not be as high as in tropical areas, it can still be noticeable. Rainfall is possible, though not as frequent as in other seasons.
What to Bring:
Bring comfortable casual clothes and good walking shoes. You may want to include a smart pair of shorts (or skirt) with a polo shirt for dinner occasions, swimwear, and a light sweater in case it gets cooler in the evening, hat, and biodegradable sunscreen.
Local Currency:
Australian Dollars. The U.S. dollar is not accepted. However, all major credit cards can be used. A credit card will be required at by the resort at check in for any incidentals.
Electricity:
Australia operates with 220 volts, and guests should bring an international travel adaptor for electronic devices.
Luggage information:
Guests are allowed to bring a maximum of 1 checked suitcase free of charge for domestic flights. Maximum weight is 20kg (50bs.) One small carry-on per person that can fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you is also permitted. Guests having excess or overweight luggage will be responsible for any fees upon check in at the airports.
Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)
1. Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry this equipment with them on their flights.
2. The certificate should have attached a picture of the equipment with its description/specifications especially with regards to the type of batteries used (lithium/dry or any other type)
3. These documents need to be sent to the Land Program Team via Reservations at RSSC at least one month prior to travel so that our local operator can begin the notification process with the airline(s).
4. Failure to comply with the above regulations may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator are responsible for.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
Guests will need a visa to visit Australia and should check with their travel agent or embassy for requirements for their nationality.
VERY IMPORTANT – The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.
Accommodations:
Sails in the Desert
163 Yulara Drive, Yulara, Northern Territory 0872
Phone: +61 2 8296 8010
Sheraton Melbourne Hotel
27 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Phone: +61 3 9290 1000
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•3 nights at Sails in the Desert (Superior Room or similar)
•1 night at The Sheraton Melbourne (King Room or similar)
•Breakfasts x 4, Lunch x 2, Dinner x 4
•All touring and entrances per the itinerary
•Economy class domestic flights from Sydney to Ayers Rock and Ayers Rock to Melbourne
•Porterage
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Gratuities for drivers and guide
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service
•Additional meals, drinks not included in the program
•Excess or overweight luggage on flights
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. The pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.
Price: $4,999 per guest based on double occupancy.
Land program promotions are per person for guests 1 and 2 for one pre- or post-cruise program only, subject to terms.
