Essential Australia - Sydney to Sydney Cruise

Day 1 - Sydney

Arrive: Sun 22 December 2024 / Depart: Sun 22 December 2024 at 18:00

Visit the famous Opera House, stroll along the harbor or cruise around it. Climb the Harbor Bridge, take a walk through the Rocks where Sydney began, or enjoy celebrated Bondi Beach. Head into the beautiful Blue Mountains for a taste of the country; visit a wildlife park and enjoy Australia’s fabulously unique creatures.

Day 2 - At Sea

Day 3 - Brisbane

Arrive: Tue 24 December 2024 at 07:00 / Depart: Tue 24 December 2024 at 19:00

Venture into the lush mountains backing the city and enjoy breathtaking views, stunning forests and fields, farms, wineries, gallery and craft areas, and picturesque gardens. Watch for unusual birds as you stroll. Explore the city's museums, waterfront, riverwalk and beaches. The capital of Queensland, Brisbane is Australia's 3rd largest city and the most cosmopolitan of the ports in the state. Take an hour drive inland to visit the famous Australian Zoo, home of the Crocodile Hunter.

Day 4 - Cruising the Coral Sea

Day 5 - Whitsunday Islands,

Arrive: Thu 26 December 2024 / Depart: Thu 26 December 2024

Enjoy spectacular beaches, snorkel in crystalline waters, or dive and explore the exquisite underwater world of fish and coral. Visit the nearby Great Barrier Reef and enjoy its breathtaking wonders. While in Airlie Beach, take in the laid-back atmosphere at the picturesque lagoon and tropical garden.

Day 6 - Cairns

Arrive: Fri 27 December 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 27 December 2024

This is the place to see the magnificent rainforest from the Kuranda Railway and visit local wildlife like koalas and emus in a rainforest habitat. Or learn about Aboriginal tradition at the culture park. Explore the town, its charming homes and the lovely botanical garden.

Day 7 - Cooktown

Arrive: Sat 28 December 2024 at 06:00 / Depart: Sat 28 December 2024 at 18:00

Cooktown is a coastal town and locality in the Shire of Cook, Queensland, Australia. Cooktown is at the mouth of the Endeavour River, on Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland where James Cook beached his ship, the Endeavour, for repairs in 1770.

Day 8 - Cruising the Coral Sea

Day 9 - Arafura Sea

Day 10 - Darwin, Australia

Arrive: Tue 31 December 2024 at 06:00 / Depart: Tue 31 December 2024 at 18:00

Discover Aboriginal culture and art at the Fine Arts Museum, see the city and its wonderful gardens, or venture into the outback to fabulous Territory Wildlife Park and its many wonders. Or head for the incredible waterfalls at Litchfield National Park. Watch crocodiles at a research station, or take a cruise along the Adelaide River and watch the saltwater crocs leap from the water to catch their prey.

Day 11 - Timor Sea Cruising

Day 12 - Timor Sea Cruising

Day 13 - Bali

Arrive: Fri 03 January 2025 at 06:00

Experience this exquisite island and its gentle people as you explore the lush countryside of terraced rice fields and mountains dotted with temples. Visit a royal palace, watch an entrancing dance performance, or see carvers at work. Enjoy villages filled with beautiful arts and crafts and the daily festivals with villagers parading in their finery to local temples.

Day 14 - Bali

Depart: Sat 04 January 2025 at 18:00

Experience this exquisite island and its gentle people as you explore the lush countryside of terraced rice fields and mountains dotted with temples. Visit a royal palace, watch an entrancing dance performance, or see carvers at work. Enjoy villages filled with beautiful arts and crafts and the daily festivals with villagers parading in their finery to local temples.

Day 15 - Komodo Island

Arrive: Sun 05 January 2025 at 10:00 / Depart: Sun 05 January 2025 at 20:00

Komodo is one of the 17,508 islands of Indonesia and one of three major islands making up Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to being a popular destination for diving, it is the only natural habitat of the Komodo dragon. The island of Komodo includes approximately 60 square miles of craggy mountains, deep canyons, savannas and monsoon rainforests.

Day 16 - At Sea

Day 17 - At Sea

Day 18 - Indian Ocean Cruising

Day 19 - Geraldton, Western Australia

Arrive: Thu 09 January 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Thu 09 January 2025 at 18:00

The hub of Australia’s Coral Coast, Geraldton features stunning beaches, a burgeoning culinary scene and a rich history. Step back in time with the city’s array of historical monuments and museums, including Point Moore Lighthouse, Birdwood Military Museum and St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. Visit Ellendale Pool, a natural pool surrounded by giant gum trees and a stunning rocky cliff. Perhaps spend a leisurely afternoon on one of the many sun-drenched beaches and watch the abundant kitesurfers in action – Geraldton is one of the top three kitesurfing locations in the world. Immerse yourself in the local cuisine at an eclectic café or serene seaside restaurant as you sample lobster fresh from the sea and typical regional dishes.

Day 20 - Fremantle

Arrive: Fri 10 January 2025 at 06:00

A stunning setting along Swan River and the Indian Ocean welcomes you into the laid-back city of Perth. At Kings Park, one of the few urban parks that dwarf Central Park, take in breathtaking views of downtown Perth and plan your day. Explore the city’s range of eclectic neighborhoods, immerse yourself in indigenous art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia, or discover Australia’s native wildlife at the Perth Zoo. Travel to nearby Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region, to visit one of the many historic vineyards for a tasting of excellent local wines. Meanwhile, discover Fremantle’s distinct character through its 19th century port streetscape. Dive into its seafaring history at the Western Australia Maritime Museum and Shipwreck Galleries, visit Fremantle Prison or explore the Manjaree Heritage Trail for a glimpse of life before European settlement.

Day 21 - Fremantle

Depart: Sat 11 January 2025

A stunning setting along Swan River and the Indian Ocean welcomes you into the laid-back city of Perth. At Kings Park, one of the few urban parks that dwarf Central Park, take in breathtaking views of downtown Perth and plan your day. Explore the city’s range of eclectic neighborhoods, immerse yourself in indigenous art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia, or discover Australia’s native wildlife at the Perth Zoo. Travel to nearby Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region, to visit one of the many historic vineyards for a tasting of excellent local wines. Meanwhile, discover Fremantle’s distinct character through its 19th century port streetscape. Dive into its seafaring history at the Western Australia Maritime Museum and Shipwreck Galleries, visit Fremantle Prison or explore the Manjaree Heritage Trail for a glimpse of life before European settlement.

Day 22 - Busselton

Arrive: Sun 12 January 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Sun 12 January 2025 at 16:00

Known as Western Australia’s premier resort town, Busselton is the perfect getaway to experience the combination of a slow-paced seaside town and a bustling cosmopolitan city. This beautiful city is an interesting locale on its own, but it is also a gateway port to the well-known Margaret River wine region. Busselton is known for its impeccable coastline and the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the Underwater Observatory, a fantastic aquarium with more than 300 marine species waiting to be enjoyed. If you love natural beauty, enjoy the beautiful beaches and astonishing limestone caves. Culture and history lovers should visit the Busselton Museum or the Old Courthouse Art Complex, both providing an inside look into the ins and outs of the region both now and hundreds of years ago.

Day 23 - Albany, Australia

Arrive: Mon 13 January 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Mon 13 January 2025

Western Australia’s oldest colonial settlement, Albany holds not only great historical significance but also immense natural beauty. Founded in 1826 as a British military outpost, the town evolved into a provisioning port for ships, a departure point for Australian troops bound for World War I, and eventually a base for the whaling industry. History buffs will be intrigued by sites such as the Anglican church, town hall, restored gaol and a one-of-a-kind whaling station museum, while the dramatic scenery of the rugged coastline will astound anyone fortunate enough to sail into Princess Royal Harbour. Known as Ataturk Entrance, the channel accessing the harbor from King George Sound is quite narrow, with forested peaks rising on either side from the rocky shores and sweeping white beaches. The view from your ship’s deck provides the perfect introduction to the natural wonders embracing this historic town.

Day 24 - Great Australian Bight

Day 25 - Great Australian Bight

Day 26 - Adelaide

Arrive: Thu 16 January 2025 / Depart: Thu 16 January 2025 at 18:00

South Australia’s coastal capital, Adelaide combines the charm of a picturesque country town with lively cosmopolitan offerings. Discover the region’s history at the South Australian Art Museum or browse local delicacies such as Adelaide Hills cheeses at the impressive Central Market. Visit Adelaide Oval, celebrated as the world’s prettiest cricket ground, for a behind-the-scenes look at the iconic stadium’s history. For a taste of the local wine culture, venture into the countryside to explore Barossa Valley, Clare Valley or McLaren Vale, three excellent nearby wine regions.

Day 27 - Penneshaw, Kangaroo Island

Arrive: Fri 17 January 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Fri 17 January 2025 at 20:00

Perhaps one of Australia’s most beautiful hidden gems, Kangaroo Island is home to thriving native wildlife, dramatic coastal cliffs, lush eucalyptus forests, rolling green hills and gorgeous beaches. In Penneshaw, discover indigenous fairy penguins, the smallest species of penguin, or visit Island Beach for snorkeling, swimming and birdwatching. Travel to spectacular Flinders National Park to encounter koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, fur seals and massive rock formations, or visit Seal Bay Conservation Park for the unforgettable experience of walking among a colony of friendly sea lions. Or simply relax with a glass of sparkling shiraz and enjoy the views from Sunset Winery, perched on a hill overlooking the Eastern Cove.

Day 28 - Portland, Victoria, Australia

Arrive: Sat 18 January 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Sat 18 January 2025

As Victoria’s first European settlement, this vibrant harbor town features a lovely historic waterfront and well-preserved colonial architecture. For insight into Portland’s past, stroll Julia Street, lined with heritage buildings, and stop at the History House, a fascinating museum housed in the former town hall. Discover Portland’s whaling history at the Portland Maritime Discovery Center and later watch Southern Right Whales, Blue Whales and seals frolic in Portland Bay, Cape Nelson or Cape Bridgewater. Just beyond Bridgewater, explore blowholes, a geological formation made of basalt and scoria rock which creates stunning spouts of sea spray during high tide. Don’t miss the remarkable petrified forest, also nearby.

Day 29 - Phillip Island (Cowes), Australia

Arrive: Sun 19 January 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Sun 19 January 2025 at 18:00

Phillip Island boasts wide sandy beaches, spectacular coastal scenery, excellent surfing and a world-famous Grand Prix circuit. However, its biggest attraction measures about one foot tall and weighs just two or three pounds. The island is home to thousands of little penguins, endearing not only as the smallest penguins on the planet but also for their unique blue coloring. Each day as the sun sets, the tiny birds return from a long day of fishing at sea and waddle up the beaches to the safety of their burrows. Affectionately known as the Penguin Parade, this magical scene has enchanted visitors since 1920. An array of wildlife beyond the penguins also can be observed here, including whales, koalas and Australia’s largest fur seal colony. Those not fond of furry friends might visit the National Vietnam Veterans Museum, take a stroll on the seaside boardwalk, or check out a local brewery or winery.

Day 30 - Melbourne

Arrive: Mon 20 January 2025 at 06:00

Head into the scenic Dandenong Mountains and ride the Puffing Billy steam train through the forest. Meet the koalas, wallabies and more at a wildlife park or explore local wineries. Take a walk and discover the city's marvelous architecture, chic galleries and boutiques.

Day 31 - Melbourne

Depart: Tue 21 January 2025

Head into the scenic Dandenong Mountains and ride the Puffing Billy steam train through the forest. Meet the koalas, wallabies and more at a wildlife park or explore local wineries. Take a walk and discover the city's marvelous architecture, chic galleries and boutiques.

Day 32 - Burnie, Tasmania

Arrive: Wed 22 January 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Wed 22 January 2025 at 18:00

Nestled in the northwest corner of Tasmania, this energetic and creative seaside town offers a unique perspective on the world of industry. Once dependent on paper manufacturing, the inventive community has transformed its industry into a compelling art culture. Visit Makers’ Workshop, part museum and part arts center, for an introduction to the inspired spirit of Burnie, along with a tour of the process of papermaking and a glimpse of local artisans at work on their handicrafts. Discover Burnie’s natural gems on the many trails at Fern Glade Reserve or the picturesque Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden.

Day 33 - Tasman Sea Cruising

Day 34 - Eden, Australia

Arrive: Fri 24 January 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Fri 24 January 2025

Formerly a whaling hub in the 19th century, Eden is the southernmost town in New South Wales, nestled between two glorious bays and perched on rolling hills bounded by dramatic cliffs and expansive sandy beaches. Eden’s whaling legacy lives on in its exciting whale-watching opportunities and the fascinating Killer Whale Museum. At the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre, towering lighthouses and the scenic coastline keep the focus firmly on the ever-changing sea.

Day 35 - Sydney

Arrive: Sat 25 January 2025 / Depart: Sat 25 January 2025 at 16:00

Visit the famous Opera House, stroll along the harbor or cruise around it. Climb the Harbor Bridge, take a walk through the Rocks where Sydney began, or enjoy celebrated Bondi Beach. Head into the beautiful Blue Mountains for a taste of the country; visit a wildlife park and enjoy Australia’s fabulously unique creatures.