Grand Continental Sojourn - Barcelona to Sydney Cruise

Day 1 - Barcelona

Arrive: Fri 31 October 2025 / Depart: Fri 31 October 2025 at 18:00

One of Europe’s most visually stunning cities, Barcelona balances the medieval intimacy of its Gothic Quarter with the grace and distinction of the wide boulevards in the Moderniste Eixample. It was the home of architect Antoni Gaudí, whose Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Park Güell and Casa Milà are the most profound statements of Modernisme. View the splendid works at the Picasso Museum and the Miro Foundation, or discover Barcelona’s passionate ambiance at a flamenco show.

Day 2 - Cruising the Mediterranean Sea

Day 3 - Cadiz

Arrive: Sun 02 November 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Sun 02 November 2025 at 18:00

Cádiz, Andalusia's world-renowned capital, has undergone major restoration in recent years. Palm trees, gracious squares, flower-filled parks, ubiquitous red-tile roofed buildings, and bustling street markets make this a most delightful port. The old town, on the tip of the peninsula, is buzzing with beautiful, lively plazas. To get there, you pass through the new town, an elegant metropolis with excellent beaches. Cádiz is also a good starting point for a day trip to nearby Seville, where you can visit the Alcazar, a beautiful medieval Islamic palace showcasing a unique fusion of Christian and Moorish architecture surrounded by lovely gardens; majestic Seville Cathedral (Catedral de Sevilla); and Giralda Tower, offering excellent photo opportunities.

Day 4 - Casablanca

Arrive: Mon 03 November 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 03 November 2025 at 18:00

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and industrial center. Its renaissance came with the French protectorate under its first resident general, Lyautey. It was largely his ideas on public works and the layout of the new city which gave Casablanca its wide boulevards, public parks and fountains, and imposing Mauresque civic buildings. ToView the Hassan II Mosque, among the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world.

Day 5 - Agadir

Arrive: Tue 04 November 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 04 November 2025 at 15:00

Located along North Africa's Atlantic coastline in the shadow of the Atlas Mountains, Agadir was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1961 demolished most of the historic Portuguese, Arab and French colonial structures. Modern Agadir is a posh, upscale resort offering delicious sun-drenched days and activities from tennis, horseback riding and golf to stretching out on a golden sand beach. Visitors looking for a memento can bargain in the colorful souks. Dining options range from traditional Moroccan dishes to French and International cuisine. Excursions can take you to ageless Berber villages, or you can indulge the senses in the scenic Souss Valley and the High Atlas.

Day 6 - Lanzarote

Arrive: Wed 05 November 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 05 November 2025 at 15:00

Discover exotic Arrecife with its modern, yet relaxed attitude rising pristine and white against a barren volcanic landscape along a turquoise bay. Visit Timanfaya National Park and marvel at the twisted lava formations and caves. Explore El Charco de San Gines, a salt-water lagoon filled with colorful fishing boats, surrounded by the white and blue homes of the fishermen. Visit the International Museum of Modern Art housed in the Castle of San Jose, and the Archaeological Museum in the Castle San Gabriel. Meander along Calle Leon y Castilla for exceptional souvenirs and shopping. Look for hand embroidered linens, African carvings, the local Guanches pottery, duty-free perfume and liquor. Enjoy tapas and a fine glass of wine at one of the seaside cafés in a land of sunshine and siestas.

Day 7 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 8 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 9 - Porto Grande (Mindelo), Cape Verde

Arrive: Sat 08 November 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 08 November 2025 at 20:00

Explore the Colonial past of Mindelo, the cultural center of Cape Verde with its distinctive blend of Portuguese and African influences. Make your way on foot to the Governor’s palace. Painted pink, it stands out among the other, smaller colonial era houses. Be sure to visit the Cape Verde Handicraft Museum before a stop at the fish market and the lively main municipal market in its own grand old colonial building. Shop for traditional handicrafts, pottery, baskets and woven items. Monte Verde, the highest peak calls to the intrepid hiker. Breathtaking views make the effort highly rewarding. Stroll along the waterfront and relax over a meal of local stew called cachupa, or a fresh fish delicacy in this lively exotic destination.

Day 10 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 11 - Dakar

Arrive: Mon 10 November 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 10 November 2025

Experience the rhythm and vibrancy of Dakar with its bustling open-air markets, historical colonial architecture and French influences. Visit the African Renaissance Monument standing taller than the Statue of Liberty. Look for embroidered cloth, lace, and silk to turn into traditional robes called boubou. Try bissap, the local tea made with hibiscus, sugar and water. Browse through the gallery and gardens of L’Institut Francais. Savor a café au lait and pastry as you revel in the syncopated rhythm of this dynamic city.

Day 12 - Banjul

Arrive: Tue 11 November 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 11 November 2025 at 17:00

Banjul is the capital city of the Gambia, a small West African country bordered by Senegal. The city sits on an island where the Gambia River meets the Atlantic Ocean. Its colonial buildings include the National Museum, dedicated to Gambian culture and history. Vendors at the lively Albert Market sell colorful textiles and local produce. The city's main entrance is marked by the immense, columned Arch 22 gateway.

Day 13 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 14 - Cruising the Gulf of Guinea

Day 15 - Abidjan

Arrive: Fri 14 November 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 14 November 2025 at 18:00

The Ivory Coast's largest city and former capital, skyscraper-studded Abidjan curves around placid Ebrié Lagoon. Being one of the world's largest French-speaking cities, it's often referred to as the "Paris of Africa." Abidjan's more affluent Le Plateau and Cocody neighborhoods exude a palpable European ambiance. Take in the city’s modern architecture whether visiting the Cathedrale St. Paul or La Pyramide. For those that prefer a comprehensive overview of Abidjan’s history, tour the National Museum, which houses an interesting collection of traditional art, including masks, pottery and wooden statues.

Day 16 - Takoradi

Arrive: Sat 15 November 2025 / Depart: Sat 15 November 2025

Day 17 - Lome

Arrive: Sun 16 November 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 16 November 2025 at 18:00

Lome is the capital and major port of Togo. Togoland, of which modern Togo was formerly a part, was colonized by the Germans in 1894. Visitors to the city can view the Lomé Grand Market, the Togo National Museum in the Palais de Congrés, and the Lomé Cathedral. Regent’s excursions open a window to the folklore and history of this mysterious and exotic country. Experience an authentic Voodoo Ceremony in Sanguera; tour the base of Mount Agou, the highest mountain in Togo, and visit a Ewe tribal village, where you will have the privilege of witnessing the popular Akpesse folkdance.

Day 18 - Cruising the Gulf of Guinea

Day 19 - Sao Tome

Arrive: Tue 18 November 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Tue 18 November 2025 at 18:00

São Tomé is the capital and largest city of the Central African island country of São Tomé and Príncipe. Its name is Portuguese for "Saint Thomas". Founded in the 15th century, is one of Africa's oldest colonial cities

Day 20 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 21 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 22 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 23 - Walvis Bay

Arrive: Sat 22 November 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Sat 22 November 2025 at 18:00

Unspoiled Walvis Bay, a natural lagoon and the only deep-sea harbor on the Namibian coast, offers something for everyone, with spectacular bird-watching being a keynote, as thousands of migrating species make their way here annually to join the local flamingoes and pelicans. “Dune 7,” at the outskirts of town, towers over the scenic bay, and offers excellent photo ops. The city is also a good starting point for a number of exciting day trips into the timeless beauty of the desert region, including off-road explorations, or fly-over dolphin and whale sighting.

Day 24 - Cruising the Atlantic Ocean

Day 25 - Cape Town

Arrive: Mon 24 November 2025 at 08:00

Called ‘the fairest cape in the whole circumference of the earth’ and regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Cape Town offers museums, lush parks and shops. Impressive mountains, magnificent beaches and outstanding wineries add to the attraction. Ride a cable-car to the top of famous flat-topped Table Mountain and gaze at the mosaic of towering mountains, verdant valleys and the confluence of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The historical highlight is Robben Island, once the prison holding such outstanding anti-apartheid leaders as Nelson Mandela.

Day 26 - Cape Town

Depart: Tue 25 November 2025 at 18:00

Called ‘the fairest cape in the whole circumference of the earth’ and regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, Cape Town offers museums, lush parks and shops. Impressive mountains, magnificent beaches and outstanding wineries add to the attraction. Ride a cable-car to the top of famous flat-topped Table Mountain and gaze at the mosaic of towering mountains, verdant valleys and the confluence of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The historical highlight is Robben Island, once the prison holding such outstanding anti-apartheid leaders as Nelson Mandela.

Day 27 - Mossel Bay

Arrive: Wed 26 November 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Wed 26 November 2025

Situated halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay offers more than 37 miles of beaches and at least 300 days of sunshine a year. Known as the location where the first Europeans made landfall on South African soil in 1488, today’s Mossel Bay is one of the country’s most popular beach destinations, as well as a haven for outdoor adventurers.

Day 28 - Cruising the Indian Ocean

Day 29 - Richard's Bay, South Africa

Arrive: Fri 28 November 2025 / Depart: Fri 28 November 2025 at 16:00

Richards Bay is one of South Africa’s largest harbors, and is the tourist’s gateway to Zululand, once the mightiest of the sub-Saharan African Kingdoms. Richards Bay began its life as a makeshift harbor, set up by Sir Fredererick Richards, after whom it is named, during the Anglo-Boer War of 1880-81. Richards Bay has some of the most spectacular wetland scenery and pristine beaches on the north coast of KwaZulu Natal. Join us as we explore the land of King Shaka, or embark on an unforgettable safari to Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve.

Day 30 - Maputo

Arrive: Sat 29 November 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 29 November 2025 at 18:00

Discover the relaxed charm of Maputo with its wide, European style boulevards, lush with jacaranda, bougainvillea and other tropical foliage, where old colonial palaces are mixed in with modern high-rise buildings. Visit The Cathedral built in 1944 in the shape of a cross, then the lively Mercado Central. Enjoy a snack of freshly roasted cashews and a cold bottled drink. Stop by the National Museum of Art then stroll along the Avenida Julius Nyerere, browsing the boutiques, vendors, and restaurants. Look for African waxprint and woven fabrics, beautiful wooden boxes and picture frames. Seek out the surreal Pancho Guedes buildings, reminiscent of Gaudi. Visit the Praça de Trabalhadores designed by Gustave Eiffel in the late 19th century. Sip coffee in one of the many outdoor cafés as you watch the world go by in this vibrant seaside capital.

Day 31 - Cruising the Mozambique Channel

Day 32 - Cruising the Mozambique Channel

Day 33 - Mayotte

Arrive: Tue 02 December 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 02 December 2025 at 18:00

Mayotte is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and the coast of Mozambique. It’s a department and region of France, though traditional Mayotte culture is most closely related to that of the neighboring Comoros islands. The Mayotte archipelago is surrounded by a coral barrier reef, which shelters a lagoon and marine reserve that are popular diving destinations

Day 34 - Nosy Be, Madagascar

Arrive: Wed 03 December 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Wed 03 December 2025 at 18:00

Discover exotic Nosy Be with its rich air fragrant from native spices and flowers and, neighboring Nosy Komba with its lemur population found only in this part of the world. Beginwith a stroll around the city center of Hellville in Nosy Be, visiting the open marketplace. Then hire a driver to take you on an island tour to see the bright blue volcanic lakes, or hire a boat to take you to Nosy Komba to visit the lemurs. Back in Nosy Be, shop for locally made perfume, distilled rum, finelinens and hand carved wooden art. Enjoy some of the fresh local seafood prepared with the local spices in this colorful and aromatic destination.

Day 35 - Cruising the Indian Ocean

Day 36 - Mahe

Arrive: Fri 05 December 2025 at 06:00

Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, in the Indian Ocean off East Africa. Its terrain is defined by white-sand beaches such as those in the popular resort area of Beau Vallon, and granite peaks including the rainforested Morne Seychellois. The island is also home to Victoria, Seychelles' capital, known for Creole architecture and a colorful covered market with wares like fish, fruit and clothing

Day 37 - Mahe

Depart: Sat 06 December 2025 at 18:00

Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, in the Indian Ocean off East Africa. Its terrain is defined by white-sand beaches such as those in the popular resort area of Beau Vallon, and granite peaks including the rainforested Morne Seychellois. The island is also home to Victoria, Seychelles' capital, known for Creole architecture and a colorful covered market with wares like fish, fruit and clothing

Day 38 - Cruising the Indian Ocean

Day 39 - Cruising the Indian Ocean

Day 40 - Arabian Sea Cruising

Day 41 - Arabian Sea Cruising

Day 42 - Port Sultan Qaboos, Muscat, Oman

Arrive: Thu 11 December 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 11 December 2025 at 15:00

Muscat is the capital of Oman, a sovereign country. Muscat has been important since the 6th century BC, when Persians controlled the port. It was under Portuguese domination from 1508 to 1650, and subsequently the Iranians gained control of the city. Muscat became the capital of independent Muscat and Oman in 1741- the country’s name was changed to just Oman in 1970. Muscat offers a number of exciting excursions including dolphin watching and off-road desert adventures.

Day 43 - Fujairah, UAE

Arrive: Fri 12 December 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 12 December 2025 at 18:00

Fujairah is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, on the Gulf of Oman. Fujairah is the only Emirate of the U.A.E. that is almost totally mountainous, surrounded by the ruggedly majestic Hajar Mountains. Dana Plaza offers shopping in the souks, while excursions include dune drives, camel safaris and a voyage to the region’s only fjord, Musandam Fjords.

Day 44 - Dubai

Arrive: Sat 13 December 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 13 December 2025 at 17:00

Located in the northeast United Arab Emirates, bustling Dubai attracts visitors with its international facilities and exotic, yet cosmopolitan lifestyle. Known as the Hong Kong of Arabia, Dubai’s modern duty-free shopping malls and traditional souks offer some of the best bargains in the world on such luxury items as gold jewelry and designer creations. For a more historic outing, visitors can explore the museum at Al Fahidi Fort or venture out into the Old Quarter of Bastakia.

Day 45 - Doha

Arrive: Sun 14 December 2025 at 08:00

Doha (‘place of beautiful flowers’) lies on the small peninsula of Qatar, that juts into the Persian Gulf. This sleepy town, once a British protectorate, was a center of pearl fishing until the discovery of oil turned it into a bustling port. Nearby attractions showcase Doha’s emergence as an important cultural and commercial center. Stroll along the crescent-shaped Corniche and admire the crystal-blue waters of the bay, the Emir’s Palace, the Museum of Islamic Arts and the traditional dhows, bobbing on the waters. Further afield, venture out on a desert safari, take in picturesque forts, or choose the perfect memento in Doha City Center, the largest shopping complex in the Mideast.

Day 46 - Doha

Depart: Mon 15 December 2025 at 18:00

Doha (‘place of beautiful flowers’) lies on the small peninsula of Qatar, that juts into the Persian Gulf. This sleepy town, once a British protectorate, was a center of pearl fishing until the discovery of oil turned it into a bustling port. Nearby attractions showcase Doha’s emergence as an important cultural and commercial center. Stroll along the crescent-shaped Corniche and admire the crystal-blue waters of the bay, the Emir’s Palace, the Museum of Islamic Arts and the traditional dhows, bobbing on the waters. Further afield, venture out on a desert safari, take in picturesque forts, or choose the perfect memento in Doha City Center, the largest shopping complex in the Mideast.

Day 47 - Abu Dhabi

Arrive: Tue 16 December 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Tue 16 December 2025

The discovery of oil in 1958 transformed this rural backwater into a modern metropolis with the highest per-capita income in the world. Today, Abu Dhabi boasts extraordinary sky scrapers, shopping malls, top quality hotels, tree-lined boulevards and picturesque gardens, while still maintaining a subtle Arabian mystique. Sail the lovely Gulf waters and numerous islands surrounding the city in a traditional dhow; tour heritage Village, a living museum where artisans ply their traditional crafts; or shop the central souk area for gold and Bedouin silver jewelry.

Day 48 - Khasab

Arrive: Wed 17 December 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 17 December 2025 at 18:00

Khasab is an eclectic and off-the-beaten-path port with pristine seas and jagged peaks. It’s location at the northern tip of the peninsula makes this city the apex of the triangle between Dubai and Muscat. Choose to take a dhow cruise along the Strait of Hormuz or go on a humpback dolphin watching excursion on the bay, either way your experience will be far from ordinary.

Day 49 - Cruising the Gulf of Oman

Day 50 - Arabian Sea Cruising

Day 51 - Mumbai

Arrive: Sat 20 December 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 20 December 2025 at 18:00

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is the capital of the Indian state of Maharashtra and the most populous city in the world. This bustling city offers a seemingly endless array of sights and cultural activities, and is the commercial and entertainment capital of India. Mumbai is home to India’s Hindi film and television industry, known as “Bollywood.” Mumbai is also one of the few cities that accommodates a national park, the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, within its city limits.

Day 52 - Marmagao (Goa)

Arrive: Sun 21 December 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 21 December 2025 at 18:00

Scenic, tropical, and often called the Pearl of the Orient, Mormugao, India’s largest, natural harbor offers unexpected cultural contrasts in this former Portuguese ruled seaport area. Hire a taxi to transport you to Vasco City, named after founder, Vasco da Gama who fortified the area in 1543. You’ll discover the largest Roman Catholic Cathedral in all of Asia, along with an area more reminiscent of Portugal than India. Delightful colonial architecture, complete with overhanging balconies, narrow winding cobblestone streets, small shops and eateries beckon. Shop for colorful azulejos, painted tin-glazed ceramic tiles typically used in Portuguese architecture. Take a stroll on one of the area’s magnificent beaches, and dine on some of the finest seafood in all of India.

Day 53 - Mangalore

Arrive: Mon 22 December 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Mon 22 December 2025 at 18:00

A major port on the Arabian Sea located in Southern India, Mangalore derives its name from a goddess. The city has a rich historical past, part of it even dating back to major epics that are the bedrock of the Hindu mythological pantheon. Mangalore has 11th century temples, scintillating beaches dotted with coconut palm trees, museums and lighthouses. Red-roofed houses against the lush greenery provide a much-needed escape from the ordinary.

Day 54 - Kochi (cochin), India

Arrive: Tue 23 December 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 23 December 2025 at 18:00

Day 55 - Colombo, Sri Lanka

Arrive: Wed 24 December 2025 at 06:00 / Depart: Wed 24 December 2025 at 18:00

Capital of the ancient Kingdom of Kandy, Colombo has been visited for over 2,000 years by Roman, Chinese, Arab and European traders. Explore this exotic city and view colorful colonial buildings including the Presidential Secretariat, the Grand Oriental Hotel, and the Lighthouse Clock Tower. A “must” to visit is Pettah, Colombo's leading bazaar district. The narrow cobbled streets are lined with shops and street stalls offering the most unimaginable range of goods. Other noteworthy sights include Viharamahadevi Park, the city's largest and oldest green expanse; and the palatial mansions of Cinnamon Gardens.

Day 56 - Galle

Arrive: Thu 25 December 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 25 December 2025 at 18:00

Galle is a city on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. It’s known for Galle Fort, the fortified old city founded by Portuguese colonists in the 16th century. Stone sea walls, expanded by the Dutch, encircle car-free streets with architecture reflecting Portuguese, Dutch and British rule. Notable buildings include the 18th-century Dutch Reformed Church. Galle Lighthouse stands on the fort’s southeast tip.

Day 57 - Hambantota

Arrive: Fri 26 December 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 26 December 2025 at 17:00

Day 58 - At Sea

Day 59 - At Sea

Day 60 - Phuket

Arrive: Mon 29 December 2025 at 08:00

With a land area of 215 square miles, Phuket Island is about the same size as Singapore, making it Thailand's largest island. Known as the "Pearl of Thailand," this beautiful retreat offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages, and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that tower over the turquoise waters of Phang-Nga Bay. Apart from tourism, much of the province's wealth derives from tin production, which started back in the 16th century.

Day 61 - Phuket

Depart: Tue 30 December 2025

With a land area of 215 square miles, Phuket Island is about the same size as Singapore, making it Thailand's largest island. Known as the "Pearl of Thailand," this beautiful retreat offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages, and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that tower over the turquoise waters of Phang-Nga Bay. Apart from tourism, much of the province's wealth derives from tin production, which started back in the 16th century.

Day 62 - Langkawi

Arrive: Wed 31 December 2025 / Depart: Wed 31 December 2025 at 20:00

Explore the relaxed charm of Langkawi with its farms, fishing villages and peaceful rice paddies. Langkawi boasts colorful myths and legends, dramatic mountains, and vast, pristine beaches. Begin with a visit to Eagle Square. Then soar to the height of eagles on the Langkawi cable car and admire the amazing views at Kereta Kabel. Look for beautifully handcrafted plates made from cinnamon trees. Discover the impact of rice agriculture in Malaysia with a visit to the Laman Padi Langkawi. Try seafood sizzlers made with coconut and chile paste or tea and chocolate treats in this romantic paradise.

Day 63 - Penang

Arrive: Thu 01 January 2026 / Depart: Thu 01 January 2026

Pulau Pinang, as it is known locally, is the northern gateway to Malaysia and also the country's oldest British settlement. The word "Pinang" in Malay refers to the areca nut palm, which provides the betel nut, an essential ingredient in a delicacy chewed by millions in the Far East. Today Georgetown is noted for the largest collection of pre-war houses in all of Southeast Asia and the Penang Heritage Trust has been established to maintain its unique heritage.

Day 64 - Kuala Lumpur

Arrive: Fri 02 January 2026 at 08:00

Spend the day discovering this cosmopolitan city and its many cultural levels, from the soaring Petronas Towers to a Royal Palace, Gothic churches, stolid Colonial remnants and a restored Malay timber house, once the residence of a local headman in a lovely Heritage Center. Browse in the markets and shops. Shop for crafts, excellent pewter, jewelry, batik. The fusion of cultures here offers a variety of menus from Malay and Chinese to continental cuisines. Try a curry or spicy broiled duck, a satay or broiled fish.

Day 65 - Kuala Lumpur

Depart: Sat 03 January 2026 at 18:00

Spend the day discovering this cosmopolitan city and its many cultural levels, from the soaring Petronas Towers to a Royal Palace, Gothic churches, stolid Colonial remnants and a restored Malay timber house, once the residence of a local headman in a lovely Heritage Center. Browse in the markets and shops. Shop for crafts, excellent pewter, jewelry, batik. The fusion of cultures here offers a variety of menus from Malay and Chinese to continental cuisines. Try a curry or spicy broiled duck, a satay or broiled fish.

Day 66 - Malacca, Kuala Lumpur

Arrive: Sun 04 January 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 04 January 2026 at 18:00

Day 67 - Singapore

Arrive: Mon 05 January 2026 at 06:00 / Depart: Mon 05 January 2026 at 18:00

Straegically located at the end of the Malaysian peninsula, the island nation of Singapore is a modern, thriving metropolis and a true melting pot of cultures. Singapore offers diverse colorful ethnic quarters; a fantastic array of superb cuisines; and a shopping mecca second to none. In many ways Singapore (the name means Lion City) was built by Sir Stamford Raffles. Coming ashore to a tiny fishing village in 1819, through trade treaties and business acumen, he laid the foundation for one of the most amazing urban success stories in history. Today, travelers can embrace exotic sights and sounds as they stroll or ride a trishaw through Chinatown, the Arab Quarter or Little India. Head down to the scenic Boat Quay for unrivaled views of the harbor and stop at one of the many international eateries for a refreshing repast. Shop along famous Orchard Road with its merchandise from every corner of the Pacific Rim; embark on a night safari at the Singapore Zoo or relax in the verdant shade of the Bukit Timah Nature Preserve. Be sure to leave time to try a refreshing Singapore Sling at the bar at Raffles Hotel.

Day 68 - Java sea cruising

Day 69 - Semarang

Arrive: Wed 07 January 2026 at 09:00 / Depart: Wed 07 January 2026 at 18:00

Semarang is a city on the north coast of the island of Java, Indonesia. A major port during the Dutch colonial era, the city is known in Indonesia for its large ethnically Chinese population. Today, Semarang is a commercial port and administrative capital of Central Java. More a business center than a city for tourists, it is, however, an excellent gateway to the mountainous interior of Central Java and only some 60 miles away from world-famous Borobudur.

Day 70 - Surabaya, Java

Arrive: Thu 08 January 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 08 January 2026 at 17:00

Surabaya is the gateway to a world of wonders, from Buddhist temples to Arab quarters. You will notice the vast differences in architecture as you move around the various neighborhoods. In particular, tour the Sampoerna Museum, a well-preserved historical site built in the 19th-century Dutch colonial-style. Also, visit the Grand Mosque of Surabaya and witness the tall minaret, with exquisite bright blue and green mosaic titles on the top of the pyramid-looking roof and dome. It’s a 21st-century masterpiece showcasing stylish religious structural design and layout. There’s plenty to do in the city center of Surabaya, whether you’re a history buff, a relentless shopper or an intrepid foodie.

Day 71 - Benoa, Bali

Arrive: Fri 09 January 2026 at 08:00

Bali is an Indonesian island known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches and coral reefs. The island is home to religious sites such as cliffside Uluwatu Temple. To the south, the beachside city of Kuta has lively bars, while Seminyak, Sanur and Nusa Dua are popular resort towns. The island is also known for its yoga and meditation retreats.

Day 72 - Benoa, Bali

Depart: Sat 10 January 2026 at 18:00

Bali is an Indonesian island known for its forested volcanic mountains, iconic rice paddies, beaches and coral reefs. The island is home to religious sites such as cliffside Uluwatu Temple. To the south, the beachside city of Kuta has lively bars, while Seminyak, Sanur and Nusa Dua are popular resort towns. The island is also known for its yoga and meditation retreats.

Day 73 - Waingapu, Sumba Island

Arrive: Sun 11 January 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 11 January 2026 at 20:00

Day 74 - Cruising the Timor Sea

Day 75 - Darwin, Australia

Arrive: Tue 13 January 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 13 January 2026 at 15:00

Along the coast of the Northern Territory lies Darwin, a city isolated by the vast Australian desert. The area was sought by the French, Dutch and British, and was established as the town of Darwin in 1869. In 1942, the city was under the threat of a Japanese attack, so a major Australian military base was established. Today Darwin is the largest city of the Northern Territory, offering sights from its colonial past and excellent shopping and dining opportunities.

Day 76 - Cruising the Arafura Sea

Day 77 - Cruising the Coral Sea

Day 78 - Cooktown

Arrive: Fri 16 January 2026 at 12:00 / Depart: Fri 16 January 2026 at 19:00

This quaint frontier town, scenically located on Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland, Cooktown is the site of Australia’s first European settlement. The town is named after the famous South Seas explorer Captain Cook, and Cook’s Pillar marks the spot where his ship, the Endeavour landed ashore in 1770. Grassy Hill offers a 360° panorama of the countryside and pristine beaches. The area remains a near-wilderness offering dramatic mountains, eucalypts, mangroves and rainforests, heathlands, grasslands, and rivers for the adventurous traveler.

Day 79 - Cairns

Arrive: Sat 17 January 2026 at 06:00 / Depart: Sat 17 January 2026 at 18:00

Cairns is the capital of Far North Queensland, and its east coastal cities rest along the Great Barrier Reef. The state of Queensland occupies a vast 667,000 square miles and much of the land remains uninhabited, covered with miles of rainforest where Australian teak, hopp, pine and fig trees abound. Before 1879, when the city of Cairns was established, the only inhabitants of this region were the Aborigines, the culture for which Australia is perhaps best known.

Day 80 - Townsville

Arrive: Sun 18 January 2026 at 06:00 / Depart: Sun 18 January 2026 at 18:00

Head out to the Great Barrier Reef to dive or snorkel, or discover the local beaches and enjoy the tropical scenery, the seafront promenade, galleries and shops. Venture out to stunning Magnetic Island with its national park, miles of walking trails, wildlife and magnificent coral reefs. Take home local artwork, crafts, jewelry and souvenirs. Savor fresh seafood along with a wide variety of international cuisines, perhaps a cold beer or a glass of fine wine.

Day 81 - Airlie Beach

Arrive: Mon 19 January 2026 at 07:00 / Depart: Mon 19 January 2026 at 18:00

Day 82 - Cruising the Coral Sea

Day 83 - Brisbane

Arrive: Wed 21 January 2026 at 06:00 / Depart: Wed 21 January 2026 at 18:00

Brisbane, the third largest city in Australia, is the state capital of Queensland and the most populous city of Queensland. The settlement grew from an original penal colony, established in 1825. Free settlers were permitted in 1842 and Queensland was proclaimed a separate colony in 1859. Due to its growing live music scene, Brisbane was nominated as one of the Top 5 International Music Hotspots by Billboard magazine in 2007.

Day 84 - Cruising the Tasman Sea

Day 85 - Sydney

Arrive: Fri 23 January 2026 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 23 January 2026

Sydney, capital of New South Wales and one of Australia's largest cities, is best known for its harbourfront Sydney Opera House, with a distinctive sail-like design. Massive Darling Harbour and the smaller Circular Quay port are hubs of waterside life, with the arched Harbour Bridge and esteemed Royal Botanic Garden nearby. Sydney Tower’s outdoor platform, the Skywalk, offers 360-degree views of the city and suburbs.