Papeete, the modern and bustling capital of Tahiti and Her Islands, contains
government offices, Gendarmerie, hospitals and clinics, banks and many other
services dedicated to serving the population of the islands as well as tourists
who come for a life-enriching experience to these magical islands.
With an industry-leading space to guest ratio across an array of social areas, crystal serenity offers the utmost comfort, quality, personalisation and choice.
Feb 08, 2027 - Papeete
Papeete, the modern and bustling capital of Tahiti and Her Islands, contains
government offices, Gendarmerie, hospitals and clinics, banks and many other
services dedicated to serving the population of the islands as well as tourists
who come for a life-enriching experience to these magical islands.
Feb 09, 2027 - Moorea
This magical island is what inspired James Michener to write about mythical "Bali Hai." The rugged mountains rise dramatically from the ocean and stand guard over this lush island that features everything from white sandy beaches to pineapple plantations to cascading waterfalls to secluded coves. A trip through the lushly-forested inland to Le Belvedere lookout opens a breathtaking view of deep blue waters of Cook's and Opunohu bays, which are the perfect anchorages for luxury yachts and sailboats alike. Horseback riding on the beach, bicycling and hiking into the mountains, deep-sea fishing, sailing, scuba diving, para-sailing, and much more awaits.
Feb 10, 2027 - Raiatea
Tahitians believe Raiatea to be the sacred birthplace of their gods and their religious and cultural beginnings. The most important and well-preserved religious site in all of Polynesia is here. It is from these shores that ancient Polynesian explorers are said to have ventured to the far off lands of Hawaii and New Zealand. Second only in size to the Island of Tahiti, Raiatea is today the trading center of the leeward islands. Raiatea is unique in that it has the only navigable river in Polynesia - the Faaroa. The rare, white gardenia called Tiare Apetahi only grows on the slopes of Mount Temehani and nowhere else on Earth! Mount Temehani is also the supposed birthplace of Oro, one principal god of Polynesia. There is a large, protected lagoon around Raiatea and its sister island Tahaa, which produces wonderful beaches and the perfect location for sailing, big game fishing, and diving.
Feb 11, 2027 - Bora Bora
Bora Bora is considered one of the most romantic places anywhere. Dominant from the moment of arrival are majestic Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, two towering volcanic peaks of black rock jutting out of the center of the emerald-green island. Often shrouded in clouds, these landmarks take on mysterious and mythical qualities. Off-road excursions, bicycling, and hiking into this wild beauty reveal incredible panoramas and valleys. Hundreds of brilliantly-colored fish, intricate gardens, and clear water also create some of the very best undersea worlds. For an exhilarating expedition, swim with and watch local divers feed small, non-dangerous lagoon sharks. Bora Bora has several ancient temples and authentic Polynesian villages. There are also some reminders of World War II with a number of cannon emplacements left behind by the U.S. Navy.
Feb 12, 2027 - Bora Bora
Bora Bora is considered one of the most romantic places anywhere. Dominant from the moment of arrival are majestic Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, two towering volcanic peaks of black rock jutting out of the center of the emerald-green island. Often shrouded in clouds, these landmarks take on mysterious and mythical qualities. Off-road excursions, bicycling, and hiking into this wild beauty reveal incredible panoramas and valleys. Hundreds of brilliantly-colored fish, intricate gardens, and clear water also create some of the very best undersea worlds. For an exhilarating expedition, swim with and watch local divers feed small, non-dangerous lagoon sharks. Bora Bora has several ancient temples and authentic Polynesian villages. There are also some reminders of World War II with a number of cannon emplacements left behind by the U.S. Navy.
Feb 13, 2027 - At Sea
Feb 14, 2027 - At Sea
Feb 15, 2027 - Pago Pago
Pago Pago, the town and capital of American Samoa, is on the Southern shore of Tutuila island. Pago Pago has an excellent, landlocked harbor.
Feb 16, 2027 - At Sea
Feb 17, 2027 - Cross International Dateline
Travel across the International Dateline and step forward or backward in time one day.
Feb 17, 2027 - Apia
Cradled along Upolu's northern shore lies the peaceful township of Apia. Picturesque thatched-roof "fales" blend into the emerald-hued countryside. Jagged mountains rise above deserted beaches where trade winds sigh on coconut palms. Banana groves and bread-fruit trees gently ripen in the moist, tropical climate. Western Samoa's friendly, carefree islanders will welcome you and proudly show you the former home of their adopted son, Robert Louis Stevenson. This is a contented island where traditional ways hold despite the passage of time.
Feb 18, 2027 - At Sea
Feb 19, 2027 - Suva
Suva is the pulsing heart of the South Pacific and Fiji's main port. This waterfront district provides the hub for much of Suva’s activiy with high-rise office buildings, colonial buildings with second-story verandas, parks and government buildings. Many main points of interest are located on Victoria Parade and its extension, tree-shaded Queen Elizabeth Drive. Visit Thurston Gardens, Suva’s botanical park lush. The Fiji Museum reflects 3,000 years of Fijian history. Government House is on a hillside surrounded by landscaped grounds. The monthly Changing of the Guard is executed with almost as much pomp and ceremony as at London’s Buckingham Palace. Tholo-I-Suva Forest Park offers miles of trails through beautiful mahogany forest. There are waterfalls, natural swimming pools and thatched pavilions with tables. At picturesque Suva Cemetery you will find Fijian graves wrapped in colorful sulus and tapa cloth. The Pacific Harbor Resort on Coral Coast boasts an 18-hole championship course. Watersports include fishing, diving, and snorkeling.
Feb 20, 2027 - Lautoka
Lautoka is sited in the western side of Viti Levu, the largest island in Fiji, and approximately 250 km from Suva, the capital. The city is surrounded with the blue Pacific Ocean on the western side and green gold sugar cane together with pine trees on the other sides. This side of the island is more diverse. One of the prime shopping areas nearby is the town of Nadi.
Feb 21, 2027 - At Sea
Feb 22, 2027 - Champagne Beach, Vanuatu
Champagne Beach is located on the island of Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu. This beach was named "Champagne Beach" because of small gas bubbles continuously rise from the volcanic sea floor creating a unique underwater display, which with a combination of crystal clear water and extensive marine life is perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Feb 23, 2027 - Port Vila, Vanuatu
Port Vila is located around a magnificent natural harbour offering stunning views of Iririki and Ifira islands. It is Vanuatu's international gateway and remains the only town on the island. Vila is a pretty town. Clean and uncluttered, the waterfront area is so unpolluted, visitors are stunned to look down from the seawall and see live corals and tropical fish. It's also fast becoming known as the gourmet capital of the South Pacific. Though there is little night life in Vila except at the Resort Hotels, there is a nightclub (Flamingo), a friendly casino (at Le Meridien Resort), a movie theatre (French only) and some restaurants which often feature local or imported musicians. Best of all, Vila is a safe and hassle free environment. Stroll along the waterfront or darkened back streets late at night, and passing locals are likely to wish you a soft "Good night", or perhaps strike up a friendly conversation.
Feb 24, 2027 - Mystery Island (Aneityum)
Located on the southern part of the Vanuatu archipelago this beautiful island is a relaxing uninhabited location for those wanting to get away from it all. The clear blue waters are calm and perfect for swimming. Visitors also have the opportunity to snorkel or dive around the coral reef that is teeming with colorful marine life.
Feb 25, 2027 - Ile Lifou
The walking paths and tracks, to the churches, beaches & lookouts are great, and well worth the 35 minute uphill hike to the White Church on top of the high peak. The scenery and views are fantastic, and the long deserted beaches of pristine white sand, enchanting crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, perfect for beachgoers. Other attractions include colonial pines atop sheer cliffs, rocks rising like medieval fortresses, fish and coral fauna found nowhere else in the world, and multicolored sea-life.
Feb 26, 2027 - Noumea
Noumea, New Caledonia's capital, is a city of French culture often referred to as St-Tropez of the Pacific. Noumea is a pretty city with sidewalk cafes and little bistros resembling a French provincial town. Arriving in Noumea creates a feeling of being in a France while native Kanak people dress in colorful ankle-length dresses and fish the reef with spears for the evening’s meal. Not far off the coast, the longest barrier reef in the world shelters 350 species of coral and 1,500 species of fish. It looks its best from November through January when the Poincianas, or flame trees, turn red. Sights to see include Place des Cocotiers, St. Joseph's Cathedral, Aquarium, and Botanical Garden and Zoo.
Feb 27, 2027 - At Sea
Feb 28, 2027 - At Sea
Mar 01, 2027 - Bay of Islands
Rich in legend and history, the Bay of Islands is New Zealand's cradle of European civilization, with many points of interest relating to early European and Maori settlement. There are many "firsts" associated with the Bay of Islands, such as the first European community, the oldest home and church in the country and the first capital of New Zealand, among others. Reserves have been established to protect what is left of the once vast native kauri forests with magnificent trees rivaling California's redwoods. Major sites in the Islands include historical Waitangi, Paihia, a subtropical marine resort popular as a starting point for bay cruises and fishing excursions, and Russell, one of the oldest towns in New Zealand known as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific”. Anglers still regard the Bay of Islands as a top fishing area, while residents cherish its unhurried pace, balmy climate and serenity. Other sights include Motukako Island, Kawhiti Caves, Maori Meeting House, and the Bay of Islands Maritime and Historic Park.
Mar 02, 2027 - Auckland
Auckland is regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world, with the cosmopolitan city centre complemented by great escapes within half an hour of downtown. Indulge in Auckland's shopping, nightlife and unrivalled cuisine and experience some of the many attractions and adventure activities on offer. There is never a shortage of things to do in the City of Sails. Sights to see include Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland Zoo, and Museum of Transport and Technology.
Mar 03, 2027 - Auckland
Auckland is regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world, with the cosmopolitan city centre complemented by great escapes within half an hour of downtown. Indulge in Auckland's shopping, nightlife and unrivalled cuisine and experience some of the many attractions and adventure activities on offer. There is never a shortage of things to do in the City of Sails. Sights to see include Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland Zoo, and Museum of Transport and Technology.
Mar 04, 2027 - Tauranga
Tauranga is the principal city of the Bay of Plenty. Well-planned parks and gardens were left by 19th century missionaries for today’s residents and visitors to enjoy. Sprawling along the sweeping bay, Tauranga is a popular summer resort. Visit the mission house and walk around the 1860s campsite of the military, situated on a cliff overlooking the harbor. Other attractions include the Waitomo Caves, a vast underground network of water-sculpted, cathedral-like limestone grottoes, big-game fishing and scuba diving, and spectacular flightseeing excursions over White Island, New Zealand's most active volcano. The area of the Bay of Plenty is blessed with a good climate and fine beaches. Other sights include Monmouth Redoubt, The Strand, and Mount Maunganui.
Mar 05, 2027 - Napier
The twin cities of Napier and Hastings, located within the region of Hawke's Bay on the East Coast of new Zealand's North Island, are quite unique. The area is blessed with a Californian-Mediterranean climate, boasting one of the highest sunshine averages in the country. The area is also dotted with colourful vineyards and orchards, with some of the most fertile farmland you will see.
In 1931 a two and a half minute earthquake destroyed the city of Napier. Rebuilding began almost immediately in the architectural style of the time - Art Deco. Napier is now classed as the newest city in the world, offering a marvellous, world-renown, collection of Art Deco buildings. Among the attractions in the area are the Gannet Colony at Cape Kidnappers, the Hawke's Bay Aquarium, the Spanish Mission and Art Deco architecture, gardens and bush walks.
Mar 06, 2027 - Wellington
Located at southwestern North Island, New Zealand’s capital city derives its character and charm from the wooded hills that curve like a green amphitheater around Wellington’s harbor. Commercial and government buildings rim the waterfront; nostalgic Victorian buildings mingle pleasantly with more modern structures and above the business district, dwellings precariously cling to steep slopes.
Wellington was the first settlement organized by the London-based New Zealand Company. Other sights include Kelburn Cable Car, Museum of Wellington, City and Sea, and National Museum and Art Gallery (Te Papa).
Mar 07, 2027 - Lyttleton (Christchurch)
Located on New Zealand’s South Island, the port of Lyttleton is the gateway to Christchurch. A short drive through a tunnel brings one to the picturesque town of Christchurch.
Mar 08, 2027 - Dunedin (Port Chalmers)
Port Chalmers is an attractive historic town and modern container port located on a tiny peninsula seven miles from Dunedin. It features magnificent harbour views, fine 19th century buildings and a thriving artistic community. It was originally founded in 1844 as the port for Dunedin. From here you can also visit Olveston stately home, Otago Peninsula (Larnach Castle and Albatross colony), and the Taieri Gorge Railway.
Mar 09, 2027 - Dusky Sound
One of the most complex of the many fjords on this coast, it is also one of the largest, 40 kilometres in length and eight kilometres wide at its widest point. To the north of its mouth is the large Resolution Island, whose Five Fingers Peninsula shelters the mouth of the sound from the northwest. along the east coast of the island, Acheron passage connects Dusky Sound with Breaksea Sound, to the north.
Several large islands lie is the sound, notably Anchor Island, Long Island, and Cooper Island. The upper reaches of the sound are steep-sided, and the high precipitation of the region leads to hundreds of waterfalls cascading into the sound during the rainy season. Seals and dolphins are often sighted in the sound's waters. The Seaforth River is the largest of many small rivers and creeks which flow into the sound.
Mar 09, 2027 - Milford Sound
Part of the majestic Fjordland National Park, Milford Sound is a spectacular sight not to be missed. Flowing into the Tasman Sea, the Sound is surrounded by towering fjords, lush greenery, icy peaks and thunderous waterfalls. The dazzling blue water is also teeming with wildlife and if you are lucky, you just might catch a glimpse of a frolicking dolphin, seals or the rare Fjordland Crested penguin.
Mar 09, 2027 - Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound is a remote, unspoilt wilderness of many moods: one minute clear, blue and sun-drenched, the next, mist-shrouded and mysterious. When you discover Doubtful Sound you will be struck by its silence -- a silence broken only by bird song, maybe the sound of a fish leaping or the rushing of a distant waterfall.
Mar 10, 2027 - At Sea
Mar 11, 2027 - At Sea
Mar 12, 2027 - Melbourne
Melbourne
Melbourne is a maze of hidden laneways, opulent bars, exclusive restaurants and off-the-beaten-track boutiques. Here you can soak up culture, hit the sporting grounds, taste the dynamic food and wine scene, dance til dawn or wander the parks and leafy boulevards. Visit Federation Square, the city's landmark cultural space, and enjoy a sunset beer on the St Kilda promenade. Shop till you drop on funky Brunswick Street or upmarket Chapel Street. Wander Southbank's cafes, bistros and bars and get a world tour of cuisines in Carlton, Richmond and Fitzroy. Take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens and cheer with a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Five Must-Have Melbourne Experiences:
1. Shop till you drop
Bag a bargain at the Rose Street Artist's Market and browse the funky boutiques on Brunswick Street. Buy designer labels such as Akira Isogawa and Zimmerman on Chapel Street in Prahran or in the historic Melbourne General Post Office, which covers an entire city block. For everything from fashion to furnishings at fantastic value, visit Bridge Road in Richmond. Melbourne is a shopper's haven, offering eclectic boutiques, high-end fashion, funky homeware stores and European style piazzas in the city's arcades and hidden laneways.
2. Bar hop and dance till dawn
Sip a cocktail in a converted sea container in Chinatown, enjoy a sunset beer in a St Kilda pub or listen to cabaret in lush retro surroundings in jazz bars in the city. Linger over exquisite tapas and exotic wine in a Little Collins Street bar and mingle in a pink parlour with fake grass in Bourke Street. You can party from dusk in the bars of Brunswick Street. Or dance till dawn in bars in the city's lantern-lit laneways, secret apart from the spill of coloured light under heavy brass doors.
3. Get into the gourmet goodness
Let the aroma of good coffee waft over you in Melbourne's gothic European laneways. The city is famous for its coffee and old-world café culture but there's so much more to explore. Once you've downed a 'short black' or taken an afternoon aperitif, try tea in a nineteenth-century hotel or salivate over your silver spoon in acclaimed restaurants like Nobu, Botanical and Becco. Pick up fresh fruits, vegetables and seafood at the Queen Victoria Market on a Saturday, known for its bustling crowds and buskers. Try out the restaurants, cafes, bistros and bars in Southbank or Federation Square. Make your way around Melbourne's multicultural cosmos of cuisines: Carlton for Italian classics, Richmond for budget-friendly Vietnamese and Fitzroy for Spanish tapas.
4. Fill up on culture
See a performance by the Australian Ballet, which is based here in Australia's cultural capital. Or enjoy a dazzling musical at the Princess Theatre. Browse the Southern Hemisphere's best collection of international art at the National Gallery of Victoria. Or visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image in Federation Square, a landmark cultural 'space' for Melbournians. Challenge yourself with the creative collections in the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art in Southbank. To learn more about Melbourne's Aboriginal cultural heritage, see contemporary and dreamtime art or take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens.
5. Go sports mad
Cheer for an Australian Rules Football game with a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground over winter. Go cricket mad in summer, when the city hosts the Ashes and one day internationals. Or join the huge crowds watching the Australian Tennis Open at Melbourne Park. Rev heads head to Melbourne in March for the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix in Albert Park. And whether you are a racing fan or just a casual punter, you won't want to miss the Melbourne Cup - the world's richest horse race on the first Tuesday in November.
Mar 13, 2027 - Melbourne
Melbourne
Melbourne is a maze of hidden laneways, opulent bars, exclusive restaurants and off-the-beaten-track boutiques. Here you can soak up culture, hit the sporting grounds, taste the dynamic food and wine scene, dance til dawn or wander the parks and leafy boulevards. Visit Federation Square, the city's landmark cultural space, and enjoy a sunset beer on the St Kilda promenade. Shop till you drop on funky Brunswick Street or upmarket Chapel Street. Wander Southbank's cafes, bistros and bars and get a world tour of cuisines in Carlton, Richmond and Fitzroy. Take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens and cheer with a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
Five Must-Have Melbourne Experiences:
1. Shop till you drop
Bag a bargain at the Rose Street Artist's Market and browse the funky boutiques on Brunswick Street. Buy designer labels such as Akira Isogawa and Zimmerman on Chapel Street in Prahran or in the historic Melbourne General Post Office, which covers an entire city block. For everything from fashion to furnishings at fantastic value, visit Bridge Road in Richmond. Melbourne is a shopper's haven, offering eclectic boutiques, high-end fashion, funky homeware stores and European style piazzas in the city's arcades and hidden laneways.
2. Bar hop and dance till dawn
Sip a cocktail in a converted sea container in Chinatown, enjoy a sunset beer in a St Kilda pub or listen to cabaret in lush retro surroundings in jazz bars in the city. Linger over exquisite tapas and exotic wine in a Little Collins Street bar and mingle in a pink parlour with fake grass in Bourke Street. You can party from dusk in the bars of Brunswick Street. Or dance till dawn in bars in the city's lantern-lit laneways, secret apart from the spill of coloured light under heavy brass doors.
3. Get into the gourmet goodness
Let the aroma of good coffee waft over you in Melbourne's gothic European laneways. The city is famous for its coffee and old-world café culture but there's so much more to explore. Once you've downed a 'short black' or taken an afternoon aperitif, try tea in a nineteenth-century hotel or salivate over your silver spoon in acclaimed restaurants like Nobu, Botanical and Becco. Pick up fresh fruits, vegetables and seafood at the Queen Victoria Market on a Saturday, known for its bustling crowds and buskers. Try out the restaurants, cafes, bistros and bars in Southbank or Federation Square. Make your way around Melbourne's multicultural cosmos of cuisines: Carlton for Italian classics, Richmond for budget-friendly Vietnamese and Fitzroy for Spanish tapas.
4. Fill up on culture
See a performance by the Australian Ballet, which is based here in Australia's cultural capital. Or enjoy a dazzling musical at the Princess Theatre. Browse the Southern Hemisphere's best collection of international art at the National Gallery of Victoria. Or visit the Australian Centre for the Moving Image in Federation Square, a landmark cultural 'space' for Melbournians. Challenge yourself with the creative collections in the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art in Southbank. To learn more about Melbourne's Aboriginal cultural heritage, see contemporary and dreamtime art or take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens.
5. Go sports mad
Cheer for an Australian Rules Football game with a capacity crowd at the Melbourne Cricket Ground over winter. Go cricket mad in summer, when the city hosts the Ashes and one day internationals. Or join the huge crowds watching the Australian Tennis Open at Melbourne Park. Rev heads head to Melbourne in March for the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix in Albert Park. And whether you are a racing fan or just a casual punter, you won't want to miss the Melbourne Cup - the world's richest horse race on the first Tuesday in November.
Mar 14, 2027 - At Sea
Mar 15, 2027 - Sydney
Sydney
Soak up Sydney’s gorgeous harbour, seductive outdoor lifestyle and great natural beauty. Kayak under the Sydney Harbour Bridge or wave at the Opera House as you ride a ferry across the harbour to Manly. Learn to surf at Bondi Beach or swim in the calm waters of Coogee. Lose yourself in the cobblestone cul-de-sacs of The Rocks or in the markets, boutiques, cafes and pubs of Paddington. As well as a world-famous harbour and more than 70 sparkling beaches, Sydney offers fabulous food, festivals and 24-7 fun.
Five Sydney Experiences Not to Miss:
1. Explore the historic Rocks
Discover Sydney’s colorful convict history in the harbourside quarter where it all began. Just five minutes from Circular Quay, you can hear stories of hangings and hauntings on a ghost tour, wander the weekend markets or climb the span of the Harbour Bridge. In amongst the maze of sandstone lanes and courtyards, you’ll find historic workman’s cottages and elegant terraces, art galleries, hotels with harbour views and Sydney’s oldest pubs. See people spill out of them onto a party on the cobblestone streets when The Rocks celebrates Australia Day on January 26th, Anzac Day on April 25th and New Years Eve.
2. Hit the world-famous harbour
Sail past the Opera House on a chartered yacht or paddle from Rose Bay in a kayak. Take a scenic cruise from Circular Quay or Darling Harbour, past waterfront mansions, national parks and Shark, Clark, Rodd and Goat islands. Tour historic Fort Denison or learn about the life of Sydney’s first inhabitants, the Gadigal people, on an Aboriginal cultural cruise. Watch the harbour glitter from the green parklands of the Royal Botanic Gardens, which curves around its edge. Or take in the view from a waterfront restaurant in Mosman, on the northern side of the bridge, or Watsons Bay at South Head. Walk from Rose Bay to Vaucluse or Cremorne Point to Mosman Bay, on just some of the 16 spectacular routes hugging the harbour foreshore.
3. Visit Manly on the ferry
Travel across Sydney Harbour on a ferry to Manly, which sits between beaches of ocean surf and tranquil inner harbour. Wander through native bushland on the scenic Manly to Spit Bridge walk, learn to scuba-dive at Cabbage Tree Bay or ride a bike to Fairy Bower. Picnic at Shelly Beach on the ocean and sail or kayak from Manly Wharf round the harbour. Hire a scooter and do a round trip of northern beaches such as Narrabeen and Palm Beach. Explore the shops, bars and cafes along the bustling pine tree-lined Corso and dine at world-class restaurants with water views.
4. Enjoy café culture and top shopping in Paddington
Meander through the Saturday markets, browse fashion boutiques on bustling Oxford Street or discover the antique shops and art galleries in upmarket Woollahra. Visit the 1840s Victoria Barracks Army base, open to the public once a week, and see restored Victorian terraces on wide, leafy streets. Ride or roller-blade in huge Centennial Park, then stop for coffee and lunch on Oxford St or in the mini-village of Five Ways. Catch a movie at an art-house cinema or leaf through a novel at midnight in one of the huge bookstores. Crawl between the lively, historic pubs. They hum even more after a game at the nearby stadium or a race day, when girls and guys arrive in their crumpled trackside finery.
5. Walk from Bondi to Coogee
Take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as you walk the winding, sea-sculpted sandstone cliffs between Bondi and Coogee. Swim in the famous Bondi Icebergs rock pool or just watch the swimmers with a sunset cocktail from the restaurant above. See wild waves in Tamarama, nicknamed Glamarama for the beautiful people who lie on its golden sand. From mid-October to November, the stretch from here to Bondi is transformed into an outdoor gallery for the Sculptures by the Sea exhibition. You can surf, picnic on the grass or stop for a coffee at family-friendly Bronte. Or swim, snorkel or scuba dive in Clovelly and tranquil Gordon’s Bay. See the graves of poets Henry Lawson, Dorothea Mackellar and aviator Lawrence Hargrave in Waverley Cemetery, on the edge of the cliffs. Finish your tour in the scenic, backpacker haven of Coogee.
Mar 16, 2027 - Newcastle, NSW
Newcastle is located on the eastern seaboard of Australia at the mouth of the Hunter River. Founded as a penal colony coal deposits, Newcastle today is a modern thriving center and Australia’s sixth most populated city. It is a city with beautiful scenery, parklands and historical buildings with its bustling and important role as a gateway for commercial shipping.
Mar 17, 2027 - At Sea
Mar 18, 2027 - Brisbane
Brisbane
Laze in the lush riverside gardens of South Bank, then browse the markets and swim in its lagoon. Bike ride in the City Botanic Gardens and abseil the cliffs of Kangaroo Point. Glide down the river on a majestic paddle steamer or take a high-speed ferry to vibrant inner-city villages like Bulimba and New Farm. When culture cravings hit, wander the art galleries and museums, watch a performance by the Queensland Ballet, Opera or Orchestra perform or see cutting-edge theatre in the Powerhouse. In the boating hub of nearby Moreton Bay and Islands, you can swim, sea kayak, snorkel coral reefs, toboggan down the world's tallest sand dune, hire a sail boat or tussle with a marlin.
Five things you should do in Brisbane:
1. Glide down the river and relax in the gardens
Bike ride beneath macadamia trees and mangroves in the City Botanic Gardens or roller blade over a floating walkway. Then cruise down the river in a wooden paddle steamer, spotting pelicans and eastern water dragons. Laze or picnic under the palms on South Bank's 17 hectares of riverside gardens. Here you can swim from the lagoon and pools of Paul Breka Beach, browse the markets, visit a summer open-air cinema and dine alfresco in the sun. Follow an Aboriginal art trail through the bushland in Mount Coot-Tha Reserve, also the place to spot native wildlife and take in panoramic city views. At the foot of the mountain you can wander the tropical zone, rainforests and Japanese gardens of the Brisbane Botanic Gardens. Cuddle up to koalas and meet possums, kangaroos, wombats, emus and lyrebirds in the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, just a short bus drive from the city centre.
2. Soak up culture and architecture
See the skeleton of a Queensland dinosaur in the Queensland Museum and the work of famous Australian artists in the Queensland Art Gallery. Both sit in the sprawling Queensland Cultural Centre on South Bank. At night, visit the dress circle of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre or catch a show by the Queensland Ballet, Opera or Orchestra. Watch plays, browse art galleries and dine out in the transformed industrial space of the Powerhouse, which towers over the wide, brown river like a post-apocalyptic vision. Brisbane also houses many cultural institutions in fine old civic buildings, such as Customs House, the Treasury Building, Brisbane City Hall, the Commissariat Store and the Old Mill. In Brisbane, sandstone cathedrals and classic Queenslander houses on stilts blend seamlessly with steel and glass skyscrapers.
3. Hit the water and islands of Moreton Bay
Sea kayak from North Stradboke Island or Moreton Island or go deep-sea fishing from Scarborough, Bribie Island, Manly or Raby Bay. Jet ski and windsurf on the Redcliffe Peninsula or kite-surf on Wellington Point. Slide down the world's tallest sand dunes on a toboggan or sand buggy on Moreton Island. Scuba dive with colourful fish, crustaceans, corals and turtles at Cowan's Artificial Reef, Flinders Reef and in the Tangalooma shipwrecks. Watch out for humpback whales between July and October and dolphins and dugongs all year round. Meet colonies of koalas in Victoria Point and hundreds of wading birds in the Egret Colony and Boondall Wetlands. Aqua-bike from Coochiemudlo Island then mountain bike the BMX tracks at Cleveland and Deception Bay. Four wheel drive Moreton, North Stradbroke and Bribie Islands. See Queensland's oldest banyan tree in Cleveland Point, Aboriginal scar trees and middens in the Redlands and Myora Springs and a notorious old convict settlement on St Helena Island.
4. Eat, drink and enjoy in the urban villages
Listen to live music, shop along the lively outdoor mall and feast on Chinatown dumplings in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane's cultural core. Next door in New Farm, you can people watch from trendy cafes, buy gourmet delights from the famous deli and picnic in the riverside parklands. Dine in warehouse converted restaurants and explore the transformed industrial space of the Powerhouse, now a buzzing centre for the live arts. Take the citycat to Bulimba on the river. Then visit pretty Paddington and hop between the popular bars, cafes and restaurants of Latrobe and Given Terraces. Then take in the traditional Queenslander homes which dot the hills and wide-lined streets. Cross the river for the funky restaurants and art house theatres of the West End, the shops of Stones Corner and the brewery of Queensland's most famous beer.
5. Embrace adventure
Abseil or rock climb the Kangaroo Point Cliffs at sunrise or at night when the city is dancing with lights. Climb the Story Bridge for spectacular 360 degree views. Free fall on a tandem sky dive or float over the city in a hot air balloon. You can even glide like a bird over the Sunshine Coast on a motor glider. Travel down the Brisbane River on a golden gondola, historic paddle steamer or wildlife cruise. Or take a luxury whale watching cruise from the Redcliffe Peninsula, just 30 minutes north of Brisbane. Do an eco cruise past Bribie Island and the Glasshouse Mountains to Pumicestone Passage Marine Park. Bushwalk, swim, four wheel drive, spot wildlife and explore glow worm caves on an eco-tour to Springbrook and Lamington National Parks. See the city sights on the back of a Harley Davidson or go horseriding in the sprawling bush on the edge of the city.