We are delighted to be able to offer you some wonderful school holiday ideas for June/July 2013. From tall ship cruises in Sydney to steam train rides through the spectacular Blue Dandenong Ranges in Victoria, we have a selection of great activities you can do with your family this winter thanks to the team at travel.com.au.

Australia Wide

Whale Watching

What better way to top off the kids’ school holidays than with a trip out to see the whales?! Departing from Darling Harbour, you will make your way under the Harbour Bridge, past historical attractions, beautiful bays and beaches as you set out to spot the whales on their annual migration north. On board is a highly skilled and experienced skipper who will manoeuvre the boat for a safe and close look at the whales. Make sure the kids keep their eyes peeled. As well as humpbacks, you may see southern right whales, minke whales, dolphins, Australian fur seals and fairy penguins. Take an active role helping to spot wildlife or sit back and enjoy the experience – a fun, safe and exciting way to enjoy nature at its best. Prices start from $85 per adult and $50 per child for a half day tour. To book, click here.

NSW

Southern Highlands Treetop Walk

Suspended 25 metres above the forest floor, this awe inspiring view of Sydney’s South Coast will take the kids’ breath away. The Treetop Walk is a unique attraction which will take the family on a 1,500 metre walk through NSW’s beautiful rainforest with 500 metres of the walk nestled in the treetop canopy some 20-30 metres above ground level. The experience culminates in the Knights Tower – a spiral tower that stands an incredible 45 metres above the forest floor! Prices start from $24 per adult, $10 per child or $59 per family for a 45-minute walk. To book, click here.

Sydney Horse Riding, Centennial Park

See Sydney’s renowned tree lined Centennial Park from the comfort of a saddle on a one-hour guided horse ride. All levels of experience welcome. Your trainer and guide will match riders with a horse to suit all abilities while providing tips along the way to make for an enjoyable ride. A great day out for horse lovers of all ages! Prices start from $80 per person for a one hour ride. To book, click here.

Jet Boat Ride, Sydney

Massive sideways slides, fishtails, wave riding and 270 degree spins – enjoy a thrilling adventure these school holidays onboard Sydney’s fastest jet boat ride. Enjoy seeing the Harbour in a different light as the boat twists and turns through the water past the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Harbour Islands, Rose Bay, Watson’s Bay, Sydney Heads, Taronga Zoo and Luna Park. Remember to hold on tight and do go prepared to get wet!! Prices start from $65 per adult and $45 per child for a 30 minute ride. To book, click here.

Pirate Tall Ship Cruise, Sydney

The whole family will be entertained throughout this two-hour Pirate Tall Ship Cruise around Sydney Harbour. Haul on a rope, help set the sails, sing along to pirate songs and take part in the many games and activities. Enjoy a treasure hunt on-board the ship or simply sit back in comfort and enjoy the views of Sydney’s magnificent Harbour. To top off the experience, a delicious buffet lunch will satisfy any little pirate’s appetite. Pirate and mermaid fancy dress costumes are encouraged and rewarded! Prices start from $99 per adult and $45 per child. To book, click here.

SKYWALK at the Sydney Tower Eye – Sydney

SKYWALK at the Sydney Tower Eye is a breathtaking outdoor experience 268 metres above the streets of Sydney. At double the height of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the same height as the Eiffel Tower, experience a rush these school holidays unmatched by any other Sydney attraction. For the brave and daring only, step out onto the clouds as you venture across the glass-floor viewing platform for a unique 360 degree views over Sydney. Prices start from $65 per adult and $45 per child for a 40 minute walk. To book, click here.

Coffs Harbour Shallow Water Dolphin  

This is one of the few places in Australia where you can enter the water with dolphins for a magical and memorable experience. These school holidays, give your children the chance to touch, feed, pat and play with a dolphin – even receive a hug and kiss! Tickle a dolphin’s tongue, view and listen to the animals underwater with goggles and learn about these amazing animals from your host trainer. Prices start from $220 per adult and $150 per child for 20 minute swim. Minimum age: 6 years. To book, click here.

QLD

Sunshine Coast Seal Swim Adventure

Getting up close and personal with a seal and playing with these lovable creatures is a once in a lifetime opportunity. These school holidays are your chance to tick this one off the list with a visit to UnderWater World. Imagine your child’s excitement when they receive a fishy seal kiss, shake flippers and receive a seal cuddle! Prices start from $123 per adult and $113 per child. Minimum age: 13 years. To book, click here.

Australian Outback Spectacular – Gold Coast

These school holidays, take the children to enjoy the wonder of the Australian Outback Spectacular and celebrate the courageous spirit of the Australian legend that is Phar Lap. The all new show features an amazing cast of larger than life characters as well as magnificent animals. The stunning special effects will have the whole family on the edge of their seats! Prices start from $99.99 per adult and $69.99 per child. To book, click here.

VIC

Take a ride on Puffing Billy

Take the kids these school holidays on a full day adventure on Puffing Billy – Australia’s oldest operating steam train through the spectacular Blue Dandenong Ranges. The family will love this ride through the Sherbrooke Forest, past quaint villages and last but not least, a stop at the delicious Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery! Prices start from $189 per adult and $94.50 per child. Children under three years are free if not occupying a seat. To book, click here.

Meet the Penguins at Melbourne Aquarium

These school holidays, get up close to Melbourne Aquarium’s cutest residents, the cheeky and playful Gentoo and King Penguins. Suited up in your Antarctic snow gear, this 45 minute tour will take you out onto the ice where you will have the exclusive opportunity to sit among Melbourne Aquarium’s colony of sub-Antarctic penguins. As part of your tour you will also have the opportunity to take a sneak peak at the Penguin food preparation and veterinary areas. You will learn about the Aquarium’s successful breeding program and how the state-of-the-art exhibit maintains sub-zero temperatures. Please note that this experience is limited to two persons per day. Prices start from $290 per person.To book, click here.

SA

Half day Cleland Conservation and Wildlife Park

Take your children on a wander through the Cleland Conservation and Wildlife Park for an up close and personal Australian wildlife experience. Jump on board a scenic 30-minute coach ride from the Adelaide CBD through the picturesque Adelaide Hills. Once at the park, you’ll enjoy seeing kangaroos, emus, dingos, wombats, Tasmanian devils, cuddle a koala and have your photo taken with these Australian mammals. The perfect school holiday memory! Entry costs $65 for adults and $32 for children. To book, click here.