Melbourne

Discover the heart of Australia on this five-day journey to the Red Centre and the Yarra Valley. Experience the majestic Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Enjoy cultural insights, a memorable sunset dinner and witness the breath-taking colors of the sunrise over Uluru. Conclude your adventure with a visit in Victoria’s beautiful Yarra Valley wine region before rejoining your cruise.

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 limited to 16 guests.

The average high temperatures in the Red Centre can be 85° F to 100° F (29-38° C) Activities include walking for extended periods over natural earth paths and some rocky surfaces. A moderate level of fitness is required to participate in this program and as such is not suitable for guests that require use of a wheelchair or have walking difficulties. Guests must also be able to manage their own luggage at airports.

DAY 1 – Sunday, January 25, 2026?

Disembark the ship in Melbourne and meet your Tour Director on the pier. Board your coach and transfer to Melbourne Airport for a flight to Ayres Rock. Upon arrival, retrieve your luggage and transfer to your hotel where your first stop will be Mangata Bistro & Bar, for a delightful lunch.

After lunch, take some time to check-in, relax, and enjoy the various free activities* offered at Sails in the Desert this afternoon. These activities could include ‘Bush Food Experience’, ‘Guided Garden Walks’, ‘Bush Yarns’ and more!

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 flavours, 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 free 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.

DAY 2 – Monday, January 26, 2026

Enjoy 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, return to the hotel where you will have time to enjoy a leisurely lunch on own. Take this opportunity to fuel up for the adventures ahead.

Later, delve deeper into the wonders of Uluru with a base tour and the Mala Walk. Learn about the cultural significance of this sacred site as you stroll along its base, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Cap off your tour with sunset drinks and canapés, soaking in the serenity of the desert landscape as day transitions into night.

As evening falls, a sumptuous dinner in included at Ilkari Restaurant, where a buffet of tantalizing dishes awaits. Indulge in a culinary journey inspired by local flavours and global influences.

DAY 3 – Tuesday, January 27, 2026

Begin your day with an awe-inspiring Uluru Sunrise tour, where you will witness the majestic rock formation come to life in the soft morning light. As the sun paints the sky with vibrant hues, immerse yourself in the beauty of this sacred site. Afterward, return to your hotel where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast.

After breakfast at the hotel, you will have time to return to your room so you can freshen up and pack before you check out. Meet your tour leader transfer to the airport for a return flight to Melbourne. Upon arrival in Melbourne, collect your luggage and transfer to the Chateau Yering. As you check in, take a moment to appreciate the grand architecture of the hotel.

Dinner will be served at Sweetwater Café, located within the hotel and offering a cozy atmosphere and a delicious selection of local dishes. It's the perfect spot to relax after your journey and enjoy fine dining overlooking the beautiful, heritage-listed gardens. After diner, you can take a brief stroll through the manicured gardens before heading to your room.

DAY 4 – Wednesday, January 28, 2026

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Sweetwater Café, where you can choose from a range of locally sourced produce, such as freshly baked pastries, eggs, and gourmet coffee.

After breakfast, get ready for a scenic and indulgent wine tour. You’ll explore some of the valley’s top wineries, all within a short drive from Chateau Yering. This will give you a glimpse of the natural beauty and world-class wines that make the Yarra Valley so famous.

Your first stop is Yering Station. This historic winery is just minutes away from Chateau Yering and offers a stunning cellar door. Enjoy a wine tasting of their signature reds and whites, paired with local cheeses. Take in the sweeping views over the vineyards and the surrounding hills. Next, it’s onto Domaine Chandon, renowned for its sparkling wines. You'll learn about the French influence in the region and enjoy a tasting experience overlooking the beautiful estate. If the weather’s nice, you can also enjoy a walk through their gardens.

Afterwards, you’ll head to Oakridge Wines for a lunch with a view. This winery is known for its contemporary Australian cuisine and exceptional wine pairings. The restaurant is set against the backdrop of rolling vineyards and is a perfect spot to enjoy lunch.

After lunch, it’s off to Healesville Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, platypuses, and a wide range of native bird species. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region while learning about Australia’s unique animals.

The final stop before returning to the Chateau is the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery for a sweet treat. It’s only a short drive from the sanctuary and you can indulge in handmade chocolates and artisan ice cream.

With satisfied bellies, you’ll return to Chateau Yering to unwind. You can relax in the hotel’s lounge, take a walk through the gardens, or enjoy a quiet moment in your room. Consider enjoying a glass of wine from one of the region’s wineries to reflect on your day

Before dinner, we’ll stop at the Yarra Valley Lookout (a short drive from the Chateau) to watch the sunset. The panoramic views of the valley at dusk are breathtaking. You’ll then head to dinner at Restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate. This restaurant offers a fantastic fine dining experience with views over the vineyards and a menu that highlights the region’s best local produce. The menu pairs beautifully with Balgownie’s award-winning wines, especially their acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon and sparkling wines.

After dinner you’ll head back to Chateau Yering for your final night before returning to the ship.

DAY 5 – Thursday, January 29, 2026

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking and proceeding to the port where you will re-join the ship.

Land Program 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. 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.

Day 1

8:15am Disembark in Melbourne and meet your Tour Director on the pier

8:45am Depart for the Melbourne International Airport

9:45am Arrive at the airport – check in for flight

11:50am Flight from Melbourne to Ayers Rock – flight details TBA and subject to change

1:30pm Arrive at Ayers Rock Airport – collect luggage

2:00pm Depart for your hotel

2:30pm Arrive at the hotel for lunch at Mangata Bistro & Bar

3:30pm Check-in at the hotel – afternoon available to participate in the free cultural activities provided by the resort

5:15pm Wintjiri Wiru sunset dinner

8:30pm Return to the hotel

Overnight at Sails in the Desert or similar hotel

DAY 2

7:00am Breakfast at hotel

9:00am Kata Tjuta tour

12:00pm Lunch on your own and time at leisure

3:15pm Uluru base tour, Mala walk and sunset tour with canapes

7:30pm Return to the hotel - dinner at Ilkari Restaurant at the hotel

Overnight at Sails in the Desert

DAY 3

5:00am Uluru Sunrise Tour

7:35am Breakfast at the hotel

11:00am Check out of the hotel

11:30am Depart for the Ayers Rock Airport

11:45am Arrive at the airport - Check in for your flight

2:15pm Flight from Ayers Rock to Melbourne (flight details TBA and subject to change)

6:40pm Arrive at Melbourne Airport - collect luggage and board your coach

7:00pm Depart for the Yarra Valley

8:00pm Arrive at Chateau Yerring. Check in and brief chance to refresh in rooms

8:30pm Dinner at Sweetwater Cafe

Overnight at Chateau Yerring

DAY 4

8:30am Breakfast at Sweetwater Cafe

9:30am Depart hotel for Yarra Valley Wine experience

10:00am Yerring Station for wine and cheese tasting

11:15am Domaine Chandon for sparkling wine tasting

12:30pm Lunch at Oakridge Wines

1:45pm Depart for Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary

2:10pm Arrive at Healesville Sanctuary

3:45pm Depart Sanctuary

4:00pm Arrive Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery

4:30pm Return to Chateau Yerring

5:00pm Arrive at the hotel

6:30pm Depart for Yarra Valley Lookout for Sunset views before heading to dinner

8:00pm Dinner at Restaurant 1309 at Balgownie Estate

9:30pm Return to the hotel

Overnight at Chateau Yerring

DAY 5

From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel

9:00am Check out for the hotel and depart for the pier

10:15am Arrive at the pier at reboard the ship

Program Includes for guests:

•2 nights at Sails in the Desert (Superior Room or similar)

•2 nights at Chateau Yerring (Stable Suite or Melba Suite)

•Breakfasts x 4, *Lunch x 3 (includes 1 boxed lunch), **Dinner x 4

*Lunch: 1 drink included / **Dinner: 2 drinks included

•All touring mentioned above

•Economy class domestic flights between Melbourne to Ayres Rock

•Porterage

Program Excludes for guests:

•Gratuities for drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, laundry and room service

•Additional meals or drinks not included in the program

•Excess or overweight luggage on flights

Expected Weather:

Ayres Rock: In January the weather is typically hot, with temperatures ranging from 25-38 °C /77 to 100°F.

Melbourne: The weather is generally warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 19-25°C (66-77°F).

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 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.Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) - Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry a POC. Further paperwork may be required by the airline.

2.CPAP Machine NOT being used in flight – please advise RSSC at least 95 days before your cruise if you will bring a CPAP on the internal flight(s) used in this land program. Please supply the make, model and battery type.

3.CPAP Machine to be used during flight – same as above + a doctor’s note is required mentioning the need to use the machine during flight.

*Guests are required to bring with them any details from the manufacturer regarding the CPAP specifications. While most modern CPAP machines are FAA-approved for in-flight use, having a copy of your manufacturer’s FAA-approval status will help to quickly clear any confusion that may arise.

* Failure to provide the above details in a timely manner may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator will be responsible for.

*Some hotels do not provide distilled water. While we can certainly request this for you, we cannot guarantee that it will be available. If received in a timely manner, at least 95 days before sailing, requests will be sent on the final manifest that our ground operators and hotels receive. We highly recommend packing your own supply especially on programs that travel to more remote locations in order to avoid not having it. Please keep in mind the rule for liquids in carry-on bags. Many hotels will charge for distilled water. If there is a fee, this will be added to your hotel incidental account to be paid at check-out. Fees will vary from hotel to hotel.

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. A passport that is valid for at least 6 months after travel is required.

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

Chateau Yerring

42 Melba Highway, Yering, Victoria 3770

Phone: +61 (0)3 9237 3333

*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.

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. 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.