Norfolk Island Escape

Day 1 – Sunday 8th September 2024

SYDNEY

For those participants travelling from elsewhere to Sydney,  the tour includes one night’s accommodation (room only) at a Sydney Airport hotel. This will ensure all interstate clients are able to smoothly transfer to the Norfolk Island daily flight on the morning of Day 2. On Day 2, residents of Sydney will join the group at Sydney Airport. 

Your own room at a Sydney Airport Hotel

Day 2 – Monday 9th September 2024

SYDNEY – NORFOLK ISLAND (D)

This morning the group will join the Sydneysiders at the international airport, ready to board our flight across to Norfolk Island. Our Qantas flight QF179 departs Sydney at 10.45am arriving to Norfolk at 2.15pm.

Please check-in at the Sydney International Airport a minimum of 120 – 150 minutes prior to your flight departure time. (Flight times may be subject to change). You will receive a light refreshment on the Qantas flights, which is also inclusive of entertainment, and one checked in piece of luggage up to 23kgs. Upon arrival on Norfolk Island one of the experienced and hospitable staff from Pinetree Tours will meet you at Norfolk Island Airport and transfer you to Castaway – your accommodation for the next 7 nights.

Tonight enjoy a two-course dinner at The Paradise Resort Hotel.

Your own room at ‘Castaway’, where you will remain for the duration of your stay

Day 3 – Tuesday 10th September 2024

DISCOVER NORFOLK ISLAND (B,D)

Today begins with Pinetree’s Half Day Tour, a must for all visitors to Norfolk. Visit historic Kingston, Cascade, Longridge and much more. See and hear about the famous Convict Buildings, beautiful beaches & golf course, the renowned Melanesian Chapel, the Government laws and lifestyle. Enjoy views from scenic spots on this full commentary conducted tour. Rest for a delicious morning tea in the garden of an old island home. Afternoon at leisure.

Tonight’s dinner is a feast of Island dishes, homemade bread, and fresh fried fish, followed by Island desserts and tea/coffee. Watch the sunset from a private property (Orn Daa Cliff) on Norfolk’s beautiful western coastline.  

Wine and Beer are available for purchase, or you are welcome to BYO drinks.

Day 4 – Wednesday 11th September 2024

FAMOUS LOCALS & PROGRESSIVE DINNER (B,D)

Start today with the choice of an easy stroll through Palm Glen Reserve or for the more energetic, a leisurely 3.5km walk through scenic Mt Bates to Captain Cook Monument. At the end of both walks we meet on the cliff top for a delicious BBQ Breakfast. Those not wishing to do the walk can  join the group at the cliff top. This afternoon we wander over to Rawson’s Hall which is only minutes from our accommodation, and stroll through the local markets to see what local produce is on offer. 

This afternoon we take a tour of Colleen McCullough’s home. Colleen, a world renowned author of 24 books called Norfolk Island home for almost 36 years. Sadly, Colleen passed away in 2015 after a long battle with illness. Her beloved property ‘Out Yenna’ is now open for a tour exclusively to Baunti Escapes. You are escorted through her magnificent home and able to view Ric and Colleen’s priceless collection of artefacts gathered on their travels all over the world. You will see where her books were researched, and Norfolk Island pies made from local eggs and fruit in season. 

This a glimpse into the life of a modern-day literary icon. If you have read her amazing books, you will love the experience of sharing the world of Colleen McCullough, author of ‘Tim’, ‘The Thornbirds’ and ‘Morgan’s Run’.

Tonight we’ll enjoy a three-course meal progressing to different Norfolk Island family homes. A fun night, and a great way to meet the local people, and sample some of the island dishes.

Day 5 – Thursday 12th September 2024

AGRICULTURAL AND INDUSTRY TOUR (B,D)

This morning at leisure. This afternoon we’ll take BOC’s Farm and Industry Tour and learn about the many enterprises which sustain the Norfolk community. These may include raising meat, producing sheep, manufacturing soft drinks and liquers, market gardening and exporting Kentia seedlings.  Includes light refreshments. 

Tonight we’ll enjoy a special dining experience at Bounty Bar and Grill with a two-course dinner.

Day 6 – Friday 13th September 2024

NORFOLK HISTORY (B,D)

This morning we head off on the Greenfingers Tour, an essential tour for every green fingered visitor! This half day tour features some of the most stunning gardens on Norfolk Island. Throughout the morning, we visit a nursery owned and operated by a Norfolk Islander and view the hydroponics. We also visit a gorgeous private garden with a spectacular view and Norfolk Islands only maze! You will also see some of the rare and endangered plants and hear about how the different settlements of the past have influenced the gardens of today. Morning tea is also included at a scenic location.  

In the afternoon we join the Convict Settlement Tour, an ‘in depth’ tour of the historic Georgian settlement of Kingston. Walk through the cemetery and hear the history of interesting convict and colonial headstones, hear stories of the houses along Quality Row. Walk through the ruins of the New Gaol, see the Pier Store, Boat Shed and the Crank Mill.

This evening enjoy, a relaxed atmosphere at Castaway, having the best homemade Pizza’s by Tony on the Island –  they are renowned for this!  Also, they make great Mocktails/Cocktails should you fancy one!

Day 7 –  Saturday 14th September 2024

SEA LIFE EXPLORING VIA GLASS BOTTOM BOAT (B,L,D)

This morning is at leisure. This afternoon we head off on a trip on Christian’s Glass Bottom Boats. A local Norfolk Islander, Donald, will share his knowledge of Norfolk’s unique marine life. Once you’ve ‘walked the plank’ with these ‘mutineer descendants’ it takes 60 seconds (yes one minute!) to be at the reef. View beautiful coral gardens and tropical fish inside the calm crystal waters of Norfolk’s lagoon. Donald provides full and interesting commentary on the environmental tour. With Donald you should be prepared for a touch of Norfolk humour. Light lunch included. 

This afternoon we head to the Cyclorama and experience the totally unique 360° panoramic painting that will take you on an amazing journey. Feel like you’re there! Witnessing the Bounty adventures and discover how the world’s most famous mutiny created the Pitcairn and Norfolk communities. Conceived by Norfolk Islander Marie Bailey, this gigantic panoramic painting vividly illustrates the story of her ancestor Fletcher Christian, the famous Mutiny on the Bounty and the descendants who settled on Pitcairn and Norfolk Island. A spectacular 3D effect is achieved with realistic perspective and detailed artwork stretching all the way to visitor’s feet. Storyboards, lists and maps explain the history in an easy-to understand way. The Cyclorama provides a total experience. Tonight we enjoy a two course dinner at Governor’s Lodge Resort, Norfolk Island.

Day 8 – Sunday 15th September 2024

STEP BACK IN TIME (B,D)

This morning at leisure. You may want to wander down to the local markets and do some last-minute souvenir shopping. This afternoon we enjoy a personalised tour with Max Hobbins – the Yesterday, Today Tour.  What was it like to live here?  Max will explain this with an audio visual which is viewed on the airconditioned bus.  Visit the airport, where hundreds of aircraft refuelled during World War 11.  The Cascade Whaling Industry and Landing Pier.  Emily Bay where a ship “The Resolution” was built and launched in 1925, and much more. Tonight we enjoy a farewell two course dinner at Hili’s Restaurant.

Day 9 – Monday 16th September 2024

NORFOLK ISLAND TO SYDNEY (B)

Having had a wonderful holiday, we now prepare for our return home. Our Qantas flight from Norfolk QF 180 departs at 2.00pm and arrives into Sydney at 4.15 pm. A light refreshment and 23 kgs of luggage is included on this flight. 

After clearing customs and immigration in Sydney, it’s time to say our farewells, with fond memories of being a Norfolk Island local for a short while. 

Those heading interstate from Sydney will need to collect their luggage and transfer to the domestic terminal and re-check in for your onward flight home.

8 NIGHT/9 DAY TOUR – 8TH – 16TH SEPTEMBER 2024 – A$5,799 (includes pre-night at a Sydney Airport hotel) 

7 NIGHT/8 DAY TOUR – 9TH – 16TH SEPTEMBER 2024 – A$5,395

About Castaway Norfolk Island accommodation

Castaway Norfolk Island is owned and run by Sarah and Tony Watts who have undertaken an extensive refurbishment program to present the island’s newest addition to its accommodation offerings. Built in the 1970s by Sarah’s grandfather, Ken Prentice, The Castaway, as it then was, had a long and illustrious life as one of Norfolk’s cherished accommodation houses. Sarah and Tony have taken on the rejuvenation of this Norfolk icon as a personal challenge and Castaway Norfolk Island has flourished under their energetic approach. The Castaway is a 20 room boutique property located in the heart of Burnt Pine.  All rooms are a stylish, modern design with garden views. The property features an onsite restaurant/bar, and covered deck overlooking the valley.

There are 10 hotel style rooms with walk-in showers, and private balconies with sea and island views, fully serviced Monday to Saturday.

Norfolk Island Brewing – The latest addition to Castaway, Norfolk Island brewing is located on site at Castaway, producing handcrafted beers and cider for locals and visitors to enjoy.

Facilities  

• Rooms fully serviced Monday to Saturday
• Restaurant open daily for breakfast
• Bar open daily from 12.00.
• Restaurant open for Lunch Saturday to Tuesday
• Friday Night wood fire pizza.
• WIFI Hotspot
• Fitness Centre
• Brewery
• Complimentary guest laundry with clothes line
• Views of Phillip Island
• One of the largest banyan trees on the island

Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island is an external territory of Australia located in the Pacific Ocean between New Zealand and New Caledonia, 1,412 kilometres (877 mi)​ directly east of Australia’s Evans Head and about 900 kilometres (560 mi) from Lord Howe Island. Together with the neighbouring Phillip Island and Nepean Island, the three islands collectively form the Territory of Norfolk Island.[9] At the 2016 census, it had 1748 inhabitants living on a total area of about 35 km2 (14 sq mi)​. Its capital is Kingston.
Norfolk Island is the main island in a group comprising the Australian external territory of Norfolk Island, situated in the Pacific Ocean between Australia and New Zealand approximately 692 km (430 mi)​ south of New Caledonia.

The first known settlers in Norfolk Island were East Polynesians but they had already departed when Great Britain settled it as part of its 1788 settlement of Australia. The island served as a convict penal settlement from 6 March 1788 until 5 May 1855, except for an 11-year hiatus between 15 February 1814 and 6 June 1825, when it lay abandoned. On 8 June 1856, permanent civilian residence on the island began when descendents of the Bounty mutineers were relocated from Pitcairn Island. In 1914 the UK handed Norfolk Island over to Australia to administer as an external territory.

Native to the island, the evergreen Norfolk Island pine is a symbol of the island and is pictured on its flag. The pine is a key export for Norfolk Island, being a popular ornamental tree in Australia (where two related species grow), and also worldwide.

Tour Inclusions:

• Two’s a Crowd Tour Host
• 8 nights’ accommodation (7 for Sydneysiders)
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, D=dinner)
• Cooked breakfast each morning and one Clifftop Breakfast on Norfolk Island, 7 dinners on Norfolk, morning, or afternoon teas on some touring days. Lunches are at own cost (except Day 7), along with items of a personal nature.
• Sydney to Norfolk Island Economy class return flights on Day 2 and Day 9 
• All sightseeing, guided tours, and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary
• Solo room – always!

Tour Exclusions:

• Travel Insurance (we can assist)
• Domestic flights to the start/end of the tour
• Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs, and phone calls
• Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
• Pre and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
• Visa costs (if applicable)
• Gratuities (optional)
• Porterage

Note: Some events such as Fish Fry and Convicts Dinner are not exclusive to Two’s a Crowd i.e. other tour groups will also be in attendance.  We will, however, have our own table at these venues.

Day 1 – Sunday 8th September 2024

SYDNEY

For those participants travelling from elsewhere to Sydney,  the tour includes one night’s accommodation (room only) at a Sydney Airport hotel. This will ensure all interstate clients are able to smoothly transfer to the Norfolk Island daily flight on the morning of Day 2. On Day 2, residents of Sydney will join the group at Sydney Airport. 

Your own room at a Sydney Airport Hotel

Day 2 – Monday 9th September 2024

SYDNEY – NORFOLK ISLAND (D)

This morning the group will join the Sydneysiders at the international airport, ready to board our flight across to Norfolk Island. Our Qantas flight QF179 departs Sydney at 10.45am arriving to Norfolk at 2.15pm.

Please check-in at the Sydney International Airport a minimum of 120 – 150 minutes prior to your flight departure time. (Flight times may be subject to change). You will receive a light refreshment on the Qantas flights, which is also inclusive of entertainment, and one checked in piece of luggage up to 23kgs. Upon arrival on Norfolk Island one of the experienced and hospitable staff from Pinetree Tours will meet you at Norfolk Island Airport and transfer you to Castaway – your accommodation for the next 7 nights.

Tonight enjoy a two-course dinner at The Paradise Resort Hotel.

Your own room at ‘Castaway’, where you will remain for the duration of your stay

Day 3 – Tuesday 10th September 2024

DISCOVER NORFOLK ISLAND (B,D)

Today begins with Pinetree’s Half Day Tour, a must for all visitors to Norfolk. Visit historic Kingston, Cascade, Longridge and much more. See and hear about the famous Convict Buildings, beautiful beaches & golf course, the renowned Melanesian Chapel, the Government laws and lifestyle. Enjoy views from scenic spots on this full commentary conducted tour. Rest for a delicious morning tea in the garden of an old island home. Afternoon at leisure.

Tonight’s dinner is a feast of Island dishes, homemade bread, and fresh fried fish, followed by Island desserts and tea/coffee. Watch the sunset from a private property (Orn Daa Cliff) on Norfolk’s beautiful western coastline.  

Wine and Beer are available for purchase, or you are welcome to BYO drinks.

Day 4 – Wednesday 11th September 2024

FAMOUS LOCALS & PROGRESSIVE DINNER (B,D)

Start today with the choice of an easy stroll through Palm Glen Reserve or for the more energetic, a leisurely 3.5km walk through scenic Mt Bates to Captain Cook Monument. At the end of both walks we meet on the cliff top for a delicious BBQ Breakfast. Those not wishing to do the walk can  join the group at the cliff top. This afternoon we wander over to Rawson’s Hall which is only minutes from our accommodation, and stroll through the local markets to see what local produce is on offer. 

This afternoon we take a tour of Colleen McCullough’s home. Colleen, a world renowned author of 24 books called Norfolk Island home for almost 36 years. Sadly, Colleen passed away in 2015 after a long battle with illness. Her beloved property ‘Out Yenna’ is now open for a tour exclusively to Baunti Escapes. You are escorted through her magnificent home and able to view Ric and Colleen’s priceless collection of artefacts gathered on their travels all over the world. You will see where her books were researched, and Norfolk Island pies made from local eggs and fruit in season. 

This a glimpse into the life of a modern-day literary icon. If you have read her amazing books, you will love the experience of sharing the world of Colleen McCullough, author of ‘Tim’, ‘The Thornbirds’ and ‘Morgan’s Run’.

Tonight we’ll enjoy a three-course meal progressing to different Norfolk Island family homes. A fun night, and a great way to meet the local people, and sample some of the island dishes.

Day 5 – Thursday 12th September 2024

AGRICULTURAL AND INDUSTRY TOUR (B,D)

This morning at leisure. This afternoon we’ll take BOC’s Farm and Industry Tour and learn about the many enterprises which sustain the Norfolk community. These may include raising meat, producing sheep, manufacturing soft drinks and liquers, market gardening and exporting Kentia seedlings.  Includes light refreshments. 

Tonight we’ll enjoy a special dining experience at Bounty Bar and Grill with a two-course dinner.

Day 6 – Friday 13th September 2024

NORFOLK HISTORY (B,D)

This morning we head off on the Greenfingers Tour, an essential tour for every green fingered visitor! This half day tour features some of the most stunning gardens on Norfolk Island. Throughout the morning, we visit a nursery owned and operated by a Norfolk Islander and view the hydroponics. We also visit a gorgeous private garden with a spectacular view and Norfolk Islands only maze! You will also see some of the rare and endangered plants and hear about how the different settlements of the past have influenced the gardens of today. Morning tea is also included at a scenic location.  

In the afternoon we join the Convict Settlement Tour, an ‘in depth’ tour of the historic Georgian settlement of Kingston. Walk through the cemetery and hear the history of interesting convict and colonial headstones, hear stories of the houses along Quality Row. Walk through the ruins of the New Gaol, see the Pier Store, Boat Shed and the Crank Mill.

This evening enjoy, a relaxed atmosphere at Castaway, having the best homemade Pizza’s by Tony on the Island –  they are renowned for this!  Also, they make great Mocktails/Cocktails should you fancy one!

Day 7 –  Saturday 14th September 2024

SEA LIFE EXPLORING VIA GLASS BOTTOM BOAT (B,L,D)

This morning is at leisure. This afternoon we head off on a trip on Christian’s Glass Bottom Boats. A local Norfolk Islander, Donald, will share his knowledge of Norfolk’s unique marine life. Once you’ve ‘walked the plank’ with these ‘mutineer descendants’ it takes 60 seconds (yes one minute!) to be at the reef. View beautiful coral gardens and tropical fish inside the calm crystal waters of Norfolk’s lagoon. Donald provides full and interesting commentary on the environmental tour. With Donald you should be prepared for a touch of Norfolk humour. Light lunch included. 

This afternoon we head to the Cyclorama and experience the totally unique 360° panoramic painting that will take you on an amazing journey. Feel like you’re there! Witnessing the Bounty adventures and discover how the world’s most famous mutiny created the Pitcairn and Norfolk communities. Conceived by Norfolk Islander Marie Bailey, this gigantic panoramic painting vividly illustrates the story of her ancestor Fletcher Christian, the famous Mutiny on the Bounty and the descendants who settled on Pitcairn and Norfolk Island. A spectacular 3D effect is achieved with realistic perspective and detailed artwork stretching all the way to visitor’s feet. Storyboards, lists and maps explain the history in an easy-to understand way. The Cyclorama provides a total experience. Tonight we enjoy a two course dinner at Governor’s Lodge Resort, Norfolk Island.

Day 8 – Sunday 15th September 2024

STEP BACK IN TIME (B,D)

This morning at leisure. You may want to wander down to the local markets and do some last-minute souvenir shopping. This afternoon we enjoy a personalised tour with Max Hobbins – the Yesterday, Today Tour.  What was it like to live here?  Max will explain this with an audio visual which is viewed on the airconditioned bus.  Visit the airport, where hundreds of aircraft refuelled during World War 11.  The Cascade Whaling Industry and Landing Pier.  Emily Bay where a ship “The Resolution” was built and launched in 1925, and much more. Tonight we enjoy a farewell two course dinner at Hili’s Restaurant.

Day 9 – Monday 16th September 2024

NORFOLK ISLAND TO SYDNEY (B)

Having had a wonderful holiday, we now prepare for our return home. Our Qantas flight from Norfolk QF 180 departs at 2.00pm and arrives into Sydney at 4.15 pm. A light refreshment and 23 kgs of luggage is included on this flight. 

After clearing customs and immigration in Sydney, it’s time to say our farewells, with fond memories of being a Norfolk Island local for a short while. 

Those heading interstate from Sydney will need to collect their luggage and transfer to the domestic terminal and re-check in for your onward flight home.

8 NIGHT/9 DAY TOUR – 8TH – 16TH SEPTEMBER 2024 – A$5,799 (includes pre-night at a Sydney Airport hotel) 

7 NIGHT/8 DAY TOUR – 9TH – 16TH SEPTEMBER 2024 – A$5,395

About Castaway Norfolk Island accommodation

Castaway Norfolk Island is owned and run by Sarah and Tony Watts who have undertaken an extensive refurbishment program to present the island’s newest addition to its accommodation offerings. Built in the 1970s by Sarah’s grandfather, Ken Prentice, The Castaway, as it then was, had a long and illustrious life as one of Norfolk’s cherished accommodation houses. Sarah and Tony have taken on the rejuvenation of this Norfolk icon as a personal challenge and Castaway Norfolk Island has flourished under their energetic approach. The Castaway is a 20 room boutique property located in the heart of Burnt Pine.  All rooms are a stylish, modern design with garden views. The property features an onsite restaurant/bar, and covered deck overlooking the valley.

There are 10 hotel style rooms with walk-in showers, and private balconies with sea and island views, fully serviced Monday to Saturday.

Norfolk Island Brewing – The latest addition to Castaway, Norfolk Island brewing is located on site at Castaway, producing handcrafted beers and cider for locals and visitors to enjoy.

Facilities  

• Rooms fully serviced Monday to Saturday
• Restaurant open daily for breakfast
• Bar open daily from 12.00.
• Restaurant open for Lunch Saturday to Tuesday
• Friday Night wood fire pizza.
• WIFI Hotspot
• Fitness Centre
• Brewery
• Complimentary guest laundry with clothes line
• Views of Phillip Island
• One of the largest banyan trees on the island

Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island is an external territory of Australia located in the Pacific Ocean between New Zealand and New Caledonia, 1,412 kilometres (877 mi)​ directly east of Australia’s Evans Head and about 900 kilometres (560 mi) from Lord Howe Island. Together with the neighbouring Phillip Island and Nepean Island, the three islands collectively form the Territory of Norfolk Island.[9] At the 2016 census, it had 1748 inhabitants living on a total area of about 35 km2 (14 sq mi)​. Its capital is Kingston.
Norfolk Island is the main island in a group comprising the Australian external territory of Norfolk Island, situated in the Pacific Ocean between Australia and New Zealand approximately 692 km (430 mi)​ south of New Caledonia.

The first known settlers in Norfolk Island were East Polynesians but they had already departed when Great Britain settled it as part of its 1788 settlement of Australia. The island served as a convict penal settlement from 6 March 1788 until 5 May 1855, except for an 11-year hiatus between 15 February 1814 and 6 June 1825, when it lay abandoned. On 8 June 1856, permanent civilian residence on the island began when descendents of the Bounty mutineers were relocated from Pitcairn Island. In 1914 the UK handed Norfolk Island over to Australia to administer as an external territory.

Native to the island, the evergreen Norfolk Island pine is a symbol of the island and is pictured on its flag. The pine is a key export for Norfolk Island, being a popular ornamental tree in Australia (where two related species grow), and also worldwide.

Tour Inclusions:

• Two’s a Crowd Tour Host
• 8 nights’ accommodation (7 for Sydneysiders)
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, D=dinner)
• Cooked breakfast each morning and one Clifftop Breakfast on Norfolk Island, 7 dinners on Norfolk, morning, or afternoon teas on some touring days. Lunches are at own cost (except Day 7), along with items of a personal nature.
• Sydney to Norfolk Island Economy class return flights on Day 2 and Day 9 
• All sightseeing, guided tours, and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary
• Solo room – always!

Tour Exclusions:

• Travel Insurance (we can assist)
• Domestic flights to the start/end of the tour
• Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs, and phone calls
• Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
• Pre and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
• Visa costs (if applicable)
• Gratuities (optional)
• Porterage

Note: Some events such as Fish Fry and Convicts Dinner are not exclusive to Two’s a Crowd i.e. other tour groups will also be in attendance.  We will, however, have our own table at these venues.