Sydney, Australia - Australia & New Zealand Cruises

Witness the majesty of Ayers Rock bathed in golden light; enjoy the sounds of the desert and soak up the unique ‘red centre’ atmosphere.

DAY 1 – SUNSET AT THE OLGA’S
You’ll fly from Sydney directly to the red centre of Australia, touching down in Ayers Rock. Upon arrival, board your coach for a tour of the Olga’s and the mighty Monolith. Kata Tjutu (The Olga’s) is a sacred Aboriginal ceremonial site and part of the Uluru – Kata Tjutu National Park. View the flora and fauna that thrive in this harsh environment and the imposing sight of the monoliths before transferring to the Sails in the Desert Hotel where you will have dinner.

DAY 2 – SUNRISE AT THE OLGA’S
Rise early to witness the beauty of sunrise over the famous landmark of Uluru (Ayers Rock). Its vast shape rises from the sand dunes in the early dawn light highlighting its magnificent presence. Your guide will take you to a special location to watch the sun rise over this amazing stone mass. You will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) and hear about the Mala people. Return to the resort for a well deserved late breakfast. For your convenience luncheon is served at your hotel before time at leisure in the afternoon.

In the evening you will have an experience like no other as you indulge in the "Sounds of Silence" - the quietest restaurant on earth. Transfer to a desert dune to sip sparkling wine and listen to the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo as a magnificent sun sets over Kata Tjuta. When the sun has finally set, lanterns are lit and a delicious Northern Territory gourmet barbecue is served. After dinner the lights go down revealing a star filled sky, clearer and brighter than most city dwellers will ever see. The resident Astronomer will then introduce the magnificent constellations, stars and planets that make up the skies of the Southern Hemisphere.

DAY 3 – RETURN TO MELBOURNE
After breakfast, bid farewell to the rugged outback of Australia as you transfer to the airport.
Board your flight to Melbourne, with a brief layover in Alice Springs. From Melbourne Airport you will transfer directly to Queen Mary 2 at the pier.

Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 14th December 2012. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = SYD802A, Single = SYD803A). Prices shown on your record of shore excursions are per person, not per room. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee. This tour departs Sydney on 19 March and returns in Melbourne on 21 March. Please check your embarkation/disembarkation dates carefully before booking this overland. This excursion is physically demanding. Be prepared for early morning starts and lengthy days. No refunds will be given for any unused portion.

The fare includes: transport by coach and plane, sightseeing and hotel accommodation as stated. Meals include water, tea and coffee. One glass of wine is included with evening meals, additional beverages will be charged to guests own account.

The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, liquor, doctor’s fees and any medication or prescriptions. Guests who require a visa for Australia must be in possession of a valid eVisitor or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) prior to embarking the ship.

What to pack: Please remember your passport and any medication you may require. Luggage limit is one bag per person with a maximum weight of 20kg. Guests should take closed walking shoes and a lightweight jacket/ jumper for the cool temperatures in the evening. Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen are also advised. Valuables should be left on board the ship. Please remember to carry a credit card or Australian dollars for any additional purchases.

Experience the incredible red centre of Australia and Ayres Rock followed by time at the Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane.

DAY 1 – SUNSET AT THE OLGA’S
You’ll fly from Sydney directly to the red centre of Australia, touching down in Ayers Rock. Upon arrival, board your coach for a tour of the Olga’s and the mighty Monolith. Kata Tjutu (The Olga’s) is a sacred Aboriginal ceremonial site and part of the Uluru – Kata Tjutu National Park. View the flora and fauna that thrive in this harsh environment and the imposing sight of the monoliths before transferring to the Sails in the Desert Hotel where you will have dinner.

DAY 2 – SUNRISE AT THE OLGA’S
Rise early to witness the beauty of sunrise over the famous landmark of Uluru (Ayers Rock). Its vast shape rises from the sand dunes in the early dawn light highlighting its magnificent presence. Your guide will take you to a special location to watch the sun rise over this amazing stone mass. You will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) and hear about the Mala people. Return to the resort for luncheon and time at leisure in the afternoon.

In the evening, you will have an experience like no other as you indulge in the "Sounds of Silence" - the quietest restaurant on earth. Transfer to a desert dune to sip sparkling wine and listen to the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo as a magnificent sun sets over Kata Tjuta. When the sun has finally set, lanterns are lit and a delicious Northern Territory gourmet barbecue is served. After dinner the lights go down revealing a star filled sky, clearer and brighter than most city dwellers will ever see. The resident Astronomer will then introduce the magnificent constellations, stars and planets that make up the skies of the Southern Hemisphere.

DAY 3 – TRAVEL TO BRISBANE
After breakfast, bid farewell to the rugged outback of Australia as you transfer to the airport.
Board you afternoon flight to Brisbane, with a brief layover in Sydney. A light snack luncheon will be offered during your flight. From Brisbane Airport you will transfer directly to The Mariott Hotel where dinner will be served.

DAY 4 – BRISBANE
Breakfast will be served at the hotel before you become acquainted with the tropical city of Brisbane, enjoying the highlights of Queensland’s capital city en route to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Here is an opportunity to get up close and personal with Australia’s iconic native animals in their natural environment. Lone Pine Sanctuary is the largest of its kind and is home to more than 130 Koalas. You can cuddle one of these endearing creatures, hand feed kangaroos and encounter a vast array of Aussie wildlife. Re-board your coach for the transfer to the pier where you will rejoin the ship in time for luncheon.

Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 14th December 2012. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = SYD800A, Single = SYD801A). Prices shown on your record of shore excursions are per person, not per room. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee. This tour departs Sydney on 23 February and returns in Brisbane on 26 February. Please check your embarkation/disembarkation dates carefully before booking this overland. This excursion is physically demanding. Be prepared for early morning starts and lengthy days. No refunds will be given for any unused portion.

The fare includes: transport by coach, plane and train, sightseeing and hotel accommodation as stated. Meals include water, tea and coffee. Evening meals include one glass of wine, additional beverages will be charged to guests own account.

The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, liquor, doctor’s fees and any medication or prescriptions. Guests who require a visa for Australia must be in possession of a valid eVisitor or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) prior to embarking the ship.

What to pack: Please remember your passport and any medication you may require. Luggage limit is one bag per person with a maximum weight of 20kg. Guests should take closed walking shoes and a lightweight jacket/ jumper for the cool temperatures in the evening. Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen are also advised.Valuables should be left on board the ship. Please remember to carry a credit card or Australian dollars for any additional purchases.

Enjoy an evening opera performance at the world famous Sydney Opera House.

You’ll be transferred by coach to the Sydney Opera House with its distinctive roofline that has made it one of the most noteworthy buildings in the world. Make your way to your ‘A’ reserved seats for an unforgettable experience as part of an audience at this famous performing arts centre.

Note: The name of the opera performance will be confirmed by the Opera House on 30th November 2012 - please check online or contact reservations after this time for more details. Dress code is semi-formal. Photography is prohibited during the performance. The Opera House has over 200 steps and passengers must walk 110 yards to reach the Opera House. Pre-booking is highly recommended as bookings will close on 4th January 2013. Any bookings received after this time will be waitlisted until further capacity can be obtained. Opera tickets are non-refundable after 4th January 2013.

Visit a unique Sheep Station for a traditional outback experience including Aussie tucker and a variety of entertaining shows.

Tobruk Sheep Station is one of the most beautiful, authentic, rural and outback experiences in Australia. Set on 150 acres on a high plateau above the Hawkesbury River and surrounded by State Forests, it has amazing views across to the Blue Mountains. After a 70 minute drive through Sydney’s north west rural region you will be greeted by a Stockman on horseback, who will guide you to the Drover’s Camp where your adventure begins.

Start the morning with traditional camp fire billy tea and damper (Australian soda bread) before sitting back to watch the show.

The Outback Show is an exciting and engaging experience, which includes skilful demonstrations and performances, all delivered with a sense of fun and entertainment. Enjoy the interesting activities such as sheep mustering, working dog displays, whip cracking, boomerang throwing and a wool room presentation.

Luncheon will be an authentic Aussie rump steak barbeque accompanied by bread, potatoes, salad and sauces followed by a traditional Aussie dessert, all washed downed with a choice of drinks including spring water, wine, beer, tea, coffee or fruit juice.

The sheep shearing demonstration includes both blade and mechanical shearing and a brief outline of the history of the shearing industry and the Aussie Shearer. At the end of the demonstration, you can try your hand at shearing.

A truly memorable day.

Note: There is a total of 45 minutes of walking over uneven, unpaved terrain. Comfortable, enclosed shoes are recommended.

An excellent opportunity to experience the Aussie bush with its native Australian wildlife and diverse, beautiful landscapes.

Begin your day with a visit to Featherdale Wildlife Park. This amazing park contains a variety of Australian wildlife including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, Australian reptiles, Tasmanian devils, wombats and various species of Australian birds. There is also an opportunity to get up close to the friendly kangaroos and have your photograph taken with a cuddly koala.

Next you will drive over the imposing Blue Mountains, where you will be able to see the giant rock formations known as the Australian ‘Grand Canyon’ as well as deep, tree-studded valleys and cascading waterfalls. View the world famous rock formation ‘The Three Sisters’ and enjoy the splendid panoramic views of the Jamieson Valley, Mount Solitary and the Ruined Castle.

A highlight of the day will be a ride on the world’s steepest perpendicular railway plunging 700 feet down into the lush valley. A short walk will bring you to the Scenicender cable car, for the return journey on the steepest aerial cable car in the Southern Hemisphere.

A delicious two course luncheon will be served at the Mountain Heritage Hotel. This quaint building has an old world charm where you can relax and reflect on your day sightseeing whilst absorbing the spectacular unrivalled views of the surrounding mountain panorama.

Note: Comfortable, flat, enclosed shoes are recommended. There is a seven minute walk from the railway to the cable car over some uneven ground. All other walking is at guests’ own discretion. This tour is not suitable for guests who have a fear of heights.

Enjoy this exhilarating ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity to participate in the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb.

Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is a unique way to view the world famous harbour area. Your qualified guide will lead your small group up the eastern arch, through steel catwalks, to the summit. On reaching the top of the bridge, you will be able to stop to celebrate your moment of glory. Take in the unrivalled panorama of Sydney Harbour and its famous surroundings 400 feet below, before descending down the western arch. Back on the ground and invigorated by your ascent, you will receive a souvenir photograph of your climb.

Continue on foot to The Rocks, Sydney’s oldest village, for a brief walking tour. The Rocks is the heart of the metropolis and the area where the city’s first settlers hammered together a primitive village. As you tread through this centuries-old district, discover notable buildings, classic terrace houses and sandstone cottages. Stop for refreshments at a traditional Australian pub to celebrate your epic achievement.

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the ‘Guide to Symbols’ in this brochure. The tour is recommended only for those in good physical condition. Children must be over 12 years old to participate. No loose items of clothing are allowed on the Bridge – lockers are provided. Guests are required to undergo an alcohol breath test. Your visit will start with a safety briefing before being fitted with protective suits and harnessed to safety rails by sliding cables. Personal cameras, mobile phones and video equipment are not permitted on the climb. The bridge climb takes approximately 3½ hours to complete. Flat, enclosed walking shoes are recommended.

A tour by pedal power is a great way to discover Sydney’s numerous attractions.

A bicycle is a great way to get ‘out and about’ and see the wonderful sights that the exciting city of Sydney has to offer.

This leisurely, scenic ride will take you through beautiful parks and charming neighbourhoods using special bike paths. Your guide will give you an insight into local life as you pass scenery, points of interest and glimpse stunning beach views. There will be plenty of stops on the way to capture the sights on camera. A well deserved rest will be given half way through at a typical Aussie pub.

During your ride you will see over 30 of Sydney’s attractions including the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney Tower and Hyde Park. This is a great tour to work off any extra pounds you may have gained whilst onboard!

Note: Before you book this excursion, you must refer to the ‘Activity Excursion’ paragraph under the ‘Guide to Symbols’ in this brochure. Equipment is provided, including helmets, which must be worn. A brief orientation and safety briefing will take place before the tour begins. The ride is suitable for all skill levels but participants must be over eight years old. Refreshments at the pub are at guests own expense.

Enjoy this leisurely introduction to Sydney’s most celebrated sights.

Travel back in time as you drive through The Rocks, a ‘must-see’ attraction as it is Sydney’s birthplace. Your drive takes in King’s Cross, the reputed red light district and Paddington, a trendy artists haven of steep hills and Victorian homes. You also pass Sydney Tower, the Opera House and the Sydney Entertainment Centre.

Stop at one of the best vantage points in Sydney, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. This historic chair was carved out of a rock ledge for Governor Lachlan Macquarie's wife, Elizabeth. The carved bench provides lovely panoramic views across the harbour, to the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the Mountains in the far distance.

Enjoy a photograph stop at the modern and trendy coastal area of Bondi Beach, Australia’s most famous beach. Bondi has a number of cafés and restaurants which overlook the beach, making it a great place to watch the world go by.

Note: Spaces are limited, therefore early booking is recommended. There will be approximately 15 minutes of free time at Bondi Beach. Most surfaces are paved, however there maybe some uneven ground at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair.

Witness the majesty of Ayers Rock bathed in golden light; enjoy the sounds of the desert and soak up the unique ‘red centre’ atmosphere.

DAY 1 – SUNSET AT THE OLGA’S
You’ll fly from Sydney directly to the red centre of Australia, touching down in Ayers Rock. Upon arrival, board your coach for a tour of the Olga’s and the mighty Monolith. Kata Tjutu (The Olga’s) is a sacred Aboriginal ceremonial site and part of the Uluru – Kata Tjutu National Park. View the flora and fauna that thrive in this harsh environment and the imposing sight of the monoliths before transferring to the Sails in the Desert Hotel where you will have dinner.

DAY 2 – SUNRISE AT THE OLGA’S
Rise early to witness the beauty of sunrise over the famous landmark of Uluru (Ayers Rock). Its vast shape rises from the sand dunes in the early dawn light highlighting its magnificent presence. Your guide will take you to a special location to watch the sun rise over this amazing stone mass. You will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) and hear about the Mala people. Return to the resort for a well deserved late breakfast. For your convenience luncheon is served at your hotel before time at leisure in the afternoon.

In the evening you will have an experience like no other as you indulge in the "Sounds of Silence" - the quietest restaurant on earth. Transfer to a desert dune to sip sparkling wine and listen to the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo as a magnificent sun sets over Kata Tjuta. When the sun has finally set, lanterns are lit and a delicious Northern Territory gourmet barbecue is served. After dinner the lights go down revealing a star filled sky, clearer and brighter than most city dwellers will ever see. The resident Astronomer will then introduce the magnificent constellations, stars and planets that make up the skies of the Southern Hemisphere.

DAY 3 – RETURN TO MELBOURNE
After breakfast, bid farewell to the rugged outback of Australia as you transfer to the airport.
Board your flight to Melbourne, with a brief layover in Alice Springs. From Melbourne Airport you will transfer directly to Queen Mary 2 at the pier.

Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 14th December 2012. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = SYD802A, Single = SYD803A). Prices shown on your record of shore excursions are per person, not per room. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee. This tour departs Sydney on 19 March and returns in Melbourne on 21 March. Please check your embarkation/disembarkation dates carefully before booking this overland. This excursion is physically demanding. Be prepared for early morning starts and lengthy days. No refunds will be given for any unused portion.

The fare includes: transport by coach and plane, sightseeing and hotel accommodation as stated. Meals include water, tea and coffee. One glass of wine is included with evening meals, additional beverages will be charged to guests own account.

The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, liquor, doctor’s fees and any medication or prescriptions. Guests who require a visa for Australia must be in possession of a valid eVisitor or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) prior to embarking the ship.

What to pack: Please remember your passport and any medication you may require. Luggage limit is one bag per person with a maximum weight of 20kg. Guests should take closed walking shoes and a lightweight jacket/ jumper for the cool temperatures in the evening. Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen are also advised. Valuables should be left on board the ship. Please remember to carry a credit card or Australian dollars for any additional purchases.

Experience the incredible red centre of Australia and Ayres Rock followed by time at the Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane.

DAY 1 – SUNSET AT THE OLGA’S
You’ll fly from Sydney directly to the red centre of Australia, touching down in Ayers Rock. Upon arrival, board your coach for a tour of the Olga’s and the mighty Monolith. Kata Tjutu (The Olga’s) is a sacred Aboriginal ceremonial site and part of the Uluru – Kata Tjutu National Park. View the flora and fauna that thrive in this harsh environment and the imposing sight of the monoliths before transferring to the Sails in the Desert Hotel where you will have dinner.

DAY 2 – SUNRISE AT THE OLGA’S
Rise early to witness the beauty of sunrise over the famous landmark of Uluru (Ayers Rock). Its vast shape rises from the sand dunes in the early dawn light highlighting its magnificent presence. Your guide will take you to a special location to watch the sun rise over this amazing stone mass. You will learn the creation stories of Liru (poisonous snake) and Kuniya (python) and hear about the Mala people. Return to the resort for luncheon and time at leisure in the afternoon.

In the evening, you will have an experience like no other as you indulge in the "Sounds of Silence" - the quietest restaurant on earth. Transfer to a desert dune to sip sparkling wine and listen to the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo as a magnificent sun sets over Kata Tjuta. When the sun has finally set, lanterns are lit and a delicious Northern Territory gourmet barbecue is served. After dinner the lights go down revealing a star filled sky, clearer and brighter than most city dwellers will ever see. The resident Astronomer will then introduce the magnificent constellations, stars and planets that make up the skies of the Southern Hemisphere.

DAY 3 – TRAVEL TO BRISBANE
After breakfast, bid farewell to the rugged outback of Australia as you transfer to the airport.
Board you afternoon flight to Brisbane, with a brief layover in Sydney. A light snack luncheon will be offered during your flight. From Brisbane Airport you will transfer directly to The Mariott Hotel where dinner will be served.

DAY 4 – BRISBANE
Breakfast will be served at the hotel before you become acquainted with the tropical city of Brisbane, enjoying the highlights of Queensland’s capital city en route to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Here is an opportunity to get up close and personal with Australia’s iconic native animals in their natural environment. Lone Pine Sanctuary is the largest of its kind and is home to more than 130 Koalas. You can cuddle one of these endearing creatures, hand feed kangaroos and encounter a vast array of Aussie wildlife. Re-board your coach for the transfer to the pier where you will rejoin the ship in time for luncheon.

Note: Bookings for this tour will close on 14th December 2012. There is a strict minimum and maximum participation. Please ensure you book the correct tour code for the accommodation you require (Double = SYD800A, Single = SYD801A). Prices shown on your record of shore excursions are per person, not per room. Once your booking is confirmed, any cancellation made after bookings close will incur a 100% cancellation fee. This tour departs Sydney on 23 February and returns in Brisbane on 26 February. Please check your embarkation/disembarkation dates carefully before booking this overland. This excursion is physically demanding. Be prepared for early morning starts and lengthy days. No refunds will be given for any unused portion.

The fare includes: transport by coach, plane and train, sightseeing and hotel accommodation as stated. Meals include water, tea and coffee. Evening meals include one glass of wine, additional beverages will be charged to guests own account.

The fare does not include: items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, gratuities, room service, liquor, doctor’s fees and any medication or prescriptions. Guests who require a visa for Australia must be in possession of a valid eVisitor or ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) prior to embarking the ship.

What to pack: Please remember your passport and any medication you may require. Luggage limit is one bag per person with a maximum weight of 20kg. Guests should take closed walking shoes and a lightweight jacket/ jumper for the cool temperatures in the evening. Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen are also advised.Valuables should be left on board the ship. Please remember to carry a credit card or Australian dollars for any additional purchases.

Take a guided tour of Sydney’s renowned Opera House, see the city sights and visit Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach.

Take a guided tour of the famous Sydney Opera House, the world-renowned building which is the cultural centre of Sydney’s performing arts. Marvel at this miracle of architecture and engineering; a work of art that came into existence against impossible odds - to become one of the busiest performing arts centres in the world.

Experience the vibrancy of Sydney, one of the world's most spectacular cities, where ornate architecture from Victorian times contrasts with sleek, modern buildings. See The Rocks (Sydney's birthplace), Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, Sydney Tower, Kings Cross and the artists’ haven of Paddington. Pass through part of Sydney's Botanical Gardens to reach Mrs. Macquarie's Chair for panoramic views of the Opera House, the city skyline, Harbour Bridge and Sydney Heads.

Travel through downtown Sydney for a stop at the coastal resort of Bondi Beach. Bondi is Australia’s most famous surf beach, a crescent of golden sand framed by rocky headlands. Soak up the atmosphere from one of the many cafés overlooking the beach or take a stroll along the pretty promenade.

Note: There is a walk of approximately 500 yards from the coach to the Opera House and approximately 200 steps inside the Opera House. All surfaces are paved, however there may be some uneven ground at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair. There will be approximately 20 minutes free time at Bondi Beach. Due to a strict cancellation policy enforced by Sydney Opera House no refunds will be given to any cancellations made within a week of the call.

Discover the beauty of Sydney Harbour on this leisurely cruise, which enables you to see the city sights from a different vista.

As you cruise along the harbour of this stunning and unique destination, you will have superb views of the million dollar waterfront homes, the iconic Sydney Opera House, Fort Denison, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the beautiful Botanical Gardens.

Enjoy a delicious morning tea consisting of muffins, scones, tea and coffee whilst you listen to a comprehensive commentary detailing the history and features of this magnificent harbour. Remember your camera as there are plenty of opportunities for photography. With a shoreline extending 1,500 miles, dotted with secluded bays and coves, Sydney’s harbour ranks as one of the world’s largest and most dazzling.

Note: Guests are advised that the walk to the vessel is approximately 500 yards. There are approximately ten steps to access the on-board toilets. The duration of the cruise is approximately two hours.