112-Day World Cruise Segment - Melbourne to Sydney

A vibrant cultural center in the land “Down Under,” Melbourne, Australia will entice you with its aromatic cafés, lush nature parks, immersive museums, and dedication to the arts.

Situated on the southern coast of the Australian continent, the warm sands and turquoise waters of Brighton Beach, which hugs Port Phillip Bay, invites you to relax and sunbathe. An array of colorful and vintage bathing boxes lines the shore and makes for a vivid photo op. North of Brighton Beach, St. Kilda Beach has amusements galore, including the iconic wooden coaster of Luna Park and an amazing view of the sunsets on St. Kilda Pier. Head to the pier’s breakwater to catch a glimpse of some St. Kilda penguins, who frequent its sturdy rocks at night.

The many diversions of the city center are guaranteed to entertain and delight! From the bustling Queen Victoria market, filled with delectable baked goods, fresh fruits and veggies, and unique souvenirs, to the stunning National Gallery of Victoria, whose thousands of distinct art pieces are illuminated by the glow of a stained-glass ceiling, Melbourne is a cultural and recreational haven. Stroll through quaint boutiques within the Block Arcade, learn about the city’s love of cricket at the National Sports Museum in the Melbourne Cricket Ground arena, or immerse yourself in the educational exhibits at the ever-popular Scienceworks Museum.

Melbourne’s natural beauty will astound and enchant you. Make a quick trip east of Melbourne to explore Yarra Valley, which offers dozens of wineries and rich Australian wines to sample. Steps from the city center, the Royal Botanic Garden encompasses an almost hundred-acre park filled with native flora and is a great spot to unwind after a long day of exploration. Follow the coastline west to find resplendent waterfalls and national parks, including the Great Otway National Park and Port Campbell National Park, where hiking, canoeing, and a whole host of outdoor activities await.

Melbourne is the perfect metropolitan hub for many Australian adventures!

Situated on the coast of South Australia, Adelaide shines as one of Australia’s cultural centers and boasts extraordinary natural beauty throughout.

The city center brims with tons of attractions guaranteed to entice any traveler, from the sprawling Adelaide Central Market, to Adelaide Zoo, to Adelaide Oval Stadium. Be sure to marvel at the city’s unique collection of flora in the Adelaide Botanic Garden, then stop for a tasting of the region’s best wines at the National Wine Centre, mere steps from the botanical gardens.

Just outside the city limits, the Cleland Conservation Park offers both spectacular wildlife, including native koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies, and cascading waterfalls, the most famous being Waterfall Gully. Better yet, make the trek to Kangaroo Island, just across the St. Vincent Gulf from Adelaide, to see even more indigenous animals on the island’s many hiking trails.

Travel west of Adelaide to the Glenelg neighborhood and unwind on the warm sands of Glenelg Beach, or stop by the collection of museums, which includes the popular Art Gallery of South Australia, near the University of Adelaide.

With so much to see and do, charming Adelaide is likely to become your next favorite Australian destination!

Mauritius, a jewel in the Indian Ocean, is known for its turquoise lagoons and coral reefs. The island is a haven for relaxation and adventure. Its iconic beaches are perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming in crystal-clear waters. The waters around Mauritius offer world-class diving opportunities, with vibrant marine life and shipwrecks waiting to be explored.

Beyond its beaches, Mauritius boasts a rich cultural heritage shaped by its history of colonization and immigration. The island is a melting pot of cultures, blending African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences. Visitors can explore markets like the Central Market in Port Louis, where spices, handcrafted goods, and local delicacies can be sampled.

Mauritius is also home to breathtaking natural wonders. The Black River Gorges National Park, a sprawling expanse of lush rainforest, offers trails that wind past waterfalls and rare plants and animals. The Chamarel Seven Colored Earths, a unique geological phenomenon featuring dunes of different hues, is another must-see attraction.

Mauritian cuisine is another highlight, with its blend of Indian, Creole, and Chinese flavors. Fresh seafood, curries, and tropical fruits like lychees and pineapples add to the culinary experience. Don’t forget to try the locally produced rum, which has a long tradition on the island.

Known as South Africa’s “Mother City,” Cape Town is a premier tourist destination and a cosmopolitan jewel of the African continent. Nestled between awe-inspiring mountains and a sparkling coastline, Cape Town bursts with history, art, culture, and natural beauty.

Natural and geological marvels abound in Cape Town. Table Mountain, the city’s iconic sandstone formation and most popular landmark, hovers over the Cape of Good Hope and offers spectacular views of the sprawling city below. The mountain can be traversed on foot, for those who enjoy hiking, or by a quick cable car ride. South of Table Mountain, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens display a stunning variety of South Africa’s lush and colorful native plant life. Nearby beaches, including Clifton Beach and Boulders Beach, are excellent sites for swimming and surfing (though colder ocean temperatures may make your swim a bit chilly!). Boulders Beach, in particular, has become a favorite sightseeing spot; locals and tourists alike enjoy watching African penguins traipse along the sand.

Cape Town’s history of racial discrimination through the apartheid system, ended in 1994, and the people’s anti-apartheid revolution led by Nelson Mandela are essential to understanding the city’s current political and social makeup. Robben Island, the prison in which Mandela served 27 years for his anti-apartheid demonstrations, is a must-see historical landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book a tour to explore the prison’s halls and see Mandela’s cell for yourself. The city’s many museums, including the District Six Museum and Slave Lodge Museum, provide an immersive look into Cape Town’s colonial and segregationist past.

Eat, drink, and be merry while partaking in Cape Town’s rich cultural life! Vineyards and wineries lie just beyond the metropolitan center and offer a diverse assortment of aromatic wines, including South Africa’s unique pinotage blend. Popular promenades near the city center, including the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and Long Street, will delight you with an impressive array of dining, shopping, and entertainment venues. Be sure to sample biltong, a dry-cured beef peppered with delectable spices that has become a staple of Cape Town cuisine. If you’re in the mood for heartier dishes, step in a local restaurant for piping-hot bunny chow (with loads of flavorful curry) or fresh fish and chips.

Fascinating Cape Town awaits. Kom ons gaan!

Known as South Africa’s “Mother City,” Cape Town is a premier tourist destination and a cosmopolitan jewel of the African continent. Nestled between awe-inspiring mountains and a sparkling coastline, Cape Town bursts with history, art, culture, and natural beauty.

Natural and geological marvels abound in Cape Town. Table Mountain, the city’s iconic sandstone formation and most popular landmark, hovers over the Cape of Good Hope and offers spectacular views of the sprawling city below. The mountain can be traversed on foot, for those who enjoy hiking, or by a quick cable car ride. South of Table Mountain, the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens display a stunning variety of South Africa’s lush and colorful native plant life. Nearby beaches, including Clifton Beach and Boulders Beach, are excellent sites for swimming and surfing (though colder ocean temperatures may make your swim a bit chilly!). Boulders Beach, in particular, has become a favorite sightseeing spot; locals and tourists alike enjoy watching African penguins traipse along the sand.

Cape Town’s history of racial discrimination through the apartheid system, ended in 1994, and the people’s anti-apartheid revolution led by Nelson Mandela are essential to understanding the city’s current political and social makeup. Robben Island, the prison in which Mandela served 27 years for his anti-apartheid demonstrations, is a must-see historical landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Book a tour to explore the prison’s halls and see Mandela’s cell for yourself. The city’s many museums, including the District Six Museum and Slave Lodge Museum, provide an immersive look into Cape Town’s colonial and segregationist past.

Eat, drink, and be merry while partaking in Cape Town’s rich cultural life! Vineyards and wineries lie just beyond the metropolitan center and offer a diverse assortment of aromatic wines, including South Africa’s unique pinotage blend. Popular promenades near the city center, including the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront and Long Street, will delight you with an impressive array of dining, shopping, and entertainment venues. Be sure to sample biltong, a dry-cured beef peppered with delectable spices that has become a staple of Cape Town cuisine. If you’re in the mood for heartier dishes, step in a local restaurant for piping-hot bunny chow (with loads of flavorful curry) or fresh fish and chips.

Fascinating Cape Town awaits. Kom ons gaan!

Islamic and French influences blend together in charming Casablanca, Morocco’s iconic coastal city. Frequently used as a port for Spanish and Mediterranean cruises, Casablanca lies halfway between Marrakesh and Fes and is the perfect entryway for exploring the rest of Morocco. Casablanca’s most notable sites include the Hassan II Mosque, which towers over the glittering coastline and is one of Africa’s largest mosques, as well as the Ancienne Medina neighborhood, an old French-style quarter with plenty of delightful local markets and cafés. Stroll along the Corniche promenade, which follows Casablanca’s long stretch of beach, for spectacular views of the ocean at sunset, or visit the Mohammed V Square, lined with enormous palm trees, for easy access to the city center and a number of restaurants. Start your next African adventure in eclectic Casablanca!

Gdańsk, a vibrant port city on Poland's Baltic coast, is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends rich history with modern charm. As the largest city in northern Poland, Gdańsk has a unique identity shaped by centuries of trade, political turmoil, and cultural exchange. The city's Old Town is a feast for the eyes, with its beautifully reconstructed buildings that harken back to its Hanseatic glory days. Stroll along Long Market (Długi Targ), where colorful facades of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture house quaint cafes, amber shops, and galleries. Here, you'll find Neptune's Fountain, an iconic 17th-century landmark symbolizing the city's deep connection to the sea.

A visit to Gdańsk offers an opportunity to dive into the city's profound historical significance. The Westerplatte, a peninsula near Gdańsk, is where the first shots of World War II were fired, marking a pivotal moment in world history. The European Solidarity Centre, located in the city’s historic shipyard, celebrates the birthplace of the Solidarity movement, which played a key role in ending communist rule in Poland and across Eastern Europe. This interactive museum takes you on a journey through the tumultuous 20th century and serves as a poignant reminder of Gdańsk's role in shaping the course of history.

For those who enjoy a blend of nature and culture, Gdańsk offers picturesque waterfront views and relaxing green spaces. The Motława River promenade provides a perfect backdrop for a leisurely walk, with charming riverside eateries and the towering Gdańsk Crane, a medieval port crane that once symbolized the city’s maritime power. Hop on a boat to Westerplatte or take a short trip to the Sopot Pier, the longest wooden pier in Europe, where you can enjoy fresh sea breezes and vibrant beach life.

Fun fact: Did you know that Gdańsk is often referred to as the world capital of amber? Known as "Baltic gold," amber has been collected and traded here for centuries. Visit the Amber Museum housed in the historic Foregate of Długa Street to explore exquisite amber jewelry and learn about its fascinating history. Don't leave without picking up a piece of this unique gemstone as a timeless souvenir.

A medieval gem on the north coast of Estonia, Tallinn is a cultural and historical treasure well worth attention on any adventure to the Baltics. This picturesque city will enchant you at every turn!

From grand castles to resplendent cathedrals, Tallinn’s Old Town neighborhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the perfect place to begin exploring. Enter through Viru Väravad, or Viru Gate, the former fortress whose remaining two towers beckon you into the heart of the city. Highlights of Old Town include Tallinna raekoda, the Gothic-style town hall, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the instantly recognizable Russian Orthodox cathedral with towering domes, and Toompea Castle, an immense palace atop Toompea Hill and once the seat of Estonian royalty.

Don’t forget to peruse Tallinn’s many museums to discover Estonia’s finest art and immersive historical exhibits. The Kumu Art Museum boasts the country’s best contemporary art pieces, while the Estonian Open Air Museum allows you to follow the footsteps of Tallinn’s villagers in preserved taverns and school houses dating back to the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Visit the KGB Museum to learn more about the city’s past occupation by the Soviet Union.

Let Tallinn, Estonia enthrall you!

Charming Copenhagen is the jewel of Denmark and a delightful stop for any traveler. Well-known as an eco-friendly haven for sustainable and green living, Copenhagen has embraced its status as the best “bike city” on earth and promoted the use of bicycles by locals and tourists. Hop on a bike, electric bus, or train to easily traverse and explore this colorful and historic city.

Copenhagen has its share of iconic landmarks and visually stunning architecture. The oft-photographed Little Mermaid sculpture, whose pensive frame overlooks the harbor, is inspired by the work of Danish author Hans Christian Andersen and has come to symbolize the city. The Nyhavn canal is perhaps the most famous attraction in Copenhagen, where vibrant 18th-century townhomes in hues of red, yellow, pink, and blue line its waterfront. The splendid Tivoli Gardens are an absolute must-see; millions of visitors delight in thrilling amusement park rides and captivatingly lush gardens. Take a seat at the Tivoli Concert Hall or Glass Hall Theatre to watch operas, classical music and rock concerts, or stand-up comedy.

Sightseeing, shopping, and dining opportunities abound in any of Copenhagen’s fourteen distinct neighborhoods! Vestebro, the city’s former red-light district, is now a trendy hub for designer boutiques, authentic and Michelin-star eats, and Copenhagen’s nightlife scene. Go for a swim in the harbor baths of Islands Brygge or venture a little further from the city center to the Amager neighborhood, where you’ll find Denmark’s National Aquarium and Amager Beach, a summertime favorite. There are plenty of historic and cultural sites to pique your interest, too. Breathtaking royal dwellings like Rosenborg Castle, a Renaissance gem that houses the country’s crown jewels, and Amalienborg Palace, the queen’s rococo-style abode and a vast royal museum, beckon you to revel in the enchanting world of vintage Copenhagen. The city’s Round Tower, a 17th-century observatory tower, provides spectacular views of the city and informative exhibitions on Danish art and science.

There is so much to discover and savor in Copenhagen, Denmark!

The Shetland Islands, located at the northernmost tip of Scotland, offer an enchanting escape for travelers seeking dramatic landscapes and a unique blend of Scottish and Norse culture. This remote archipelago of over 100 islands, of which only 16 are inhabited, is known for its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and abundant wildlife.

Stunning cliffs like those at Sumburgh Head are a haven for birdwatchers, with puffins, guillemots, and kittiwakes nesting along the rocks. The islands are also home to seals, otters, and the famous Shetland ponies, which can often be spotted grazing in the fields. Coastal walks reveal hidden beaches, sea caves, and a chance to witness the Northern Lights during the darker months.

Food is another highlight of the Shetland experience, with the islands boasting some of the freshest seafood in Scotland. Dishes featuring mussels, scallops, and Shetland lamb are staples of the local cuisine. Visitors can also sample Shetland’s traditional oatcakes, bannocks, and crowdie cheese, which reflect the region’s farming heritage.

Visit picturesque Quebec City, situated on the mighty St. Lawrence River, and become instantly mesmerized by this historic jewel in Canada’s French province. Replete with striking landmarks and stunning architecture, Quebec City is perfect for sight-seeing and deserves ample time for exploration.

The Vieux-Québec quarter, located in the heart of the Quebec City, boasts the city’s most iconic attractions and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find la Citadelle de Québec, la Place Royale, Musée de la civilisation, and most notably, the famous Château Frontenac, whose impressive structure towers over the St. Lawrence. Stroll Terrasse Dufferin for a spectacular waterfront view of this massive castle, or head just north of Frontenac to Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica and marvel at the cathedral’s gold-laden Baroque style.

The lush beauty of Quebec City’s nature parks, from the verdant Plains of Abraham park (once witness to the Battle of Québec) to the cascading waterfall of Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, complements the city’s man-made wonders. Adventurous travelers will love nearby Jacques-Cartier National Park, where hiking, skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are among the most popular day-time excursions. Venture across the St. Lawrence River to the Île d’Orléans, where local vendors offer the city’s best wines, cheeses, and culinary bites to savor.

With so much to see and do, Quebec City is guaranteed to astound you!

Visit picturesque Quebec City, situated on the mighty St. Lawrence River, and become instantly mesmerized by this historic jewel in Canada’s French province. Replete with striking landmarks and stunning architecture, Quebec City is perfect for sight-seeing and deserves ample time for exploration.

The Vieux-Québec quarter, located in the heart of the Quebec City, boasts the city’s most iconic attractions and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll find la Citadelle de Québec, la Place Royale, Musée de la civilisation, and most notably, the famous Château Frontenac, whose impressive structure towers over the St. Lawrence. Stroll Terrasse Dufferin for a spectacular waterfront view of this massive castle, or head just north of Frontenac to Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica and marvel at the cathedral’s gold-laden Baroque style.

The lush beauty of Quebec City’s nature parks, from the verdant Plains of Abraham park (once witness to the Battle of Québec) to the cascading waterfall of Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, complements the city’s man-made wonders. Adventurous travelers will love nearby Jacques-Cartier National Park, where hiking, skiing, canoeing, and kayaking are among the most popular day-time excursions. Venture across the St. Lawrence River to the Île d’Orléans, where local vendors offer the city’s best wines, cheeses, and culinary bites to savor.

With so much to see and do, Quebec City is guaranteed to astound you!

Nestled between Biscayne Bay to the east and Everglades National Park to the west, Miami, Florida is one of the Sunshine State's most vibrant, culturally diverse, and dynamic cities. Neon pink lights and tropical nights beckon you to this popular tourist destination, a favorite port for travelers on Caribbean and Trans-Atlantic cruises.

Miami’s expansive stretch of sand and sun is a beach-lover’s paradise. Lined with palm trees, Miami Beach and South Beach are excellent sites to soak up some Vitamin C, take a plunge in warm cerulean waters, and traverse the bay by boat. South Beach boasts amazing nightlife, including stunning rooftop bars with ocean views and vivid nightclubs. The LGBTQ community has contributed immensely to the city’s nightlife – several gay bars and drag clubs are some of Miami’s most sought-after spots for dancing. You’ll find the famous Art Deco district, with a delightful collection of vintage architectural masterpieces, mere steps from the sandy coastline.

A veritable melting-pot, Miami has been heavily influenced by Latin American culture. Visit the city’s Little Haiti and Little Havana neighborhoods to discover authentic Cuban and Haitian cuisine, colorful art museums, jazz bars, and robust brewed coffee. Revel in a savory bite of the classic Cubano sandwich, a staple in Miami.

Whether golfing, fishing, partying, or sun-bathing, sunny Miami, Florida has something for everyone!

An essential passageway between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, the Panama Canal is an extraordinary technological landmark and a testament to human innovation. Built in the early twentieth century by American engineers, the canal weaves through the Panamanian isthmus and allows easy access for commercial freighters and cruise ships alike. This stretch of Central America, with lush rain forests and glittering water, makes for an enjoyable cruise.

A veritable paradise on Earth, Auckland combines the best of both worlds – a thrilling urban metropolis surrounded by striking natural areas, sparkling blue water, and colorful wildlife. New Zealand’s cultural and recreational hub, beautiful Auckland has something for everyone.

Museums, art galleries, and other culture-rich sites abound near Auckland’s city center. History buffs will appreciate the Auckland War Memorial Museum or the New Zealand Maritime Museum on Viaduct Harbour, while art enthusiasts will relish in the vast art collections housed at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tamaki. Be sure to peruse the famous Maori Portraits exhibit, a display featuring powerful portraits of the Maori peoples indigenous to New Zealand and Polynesia.

You won’t have to venture far from the city to experience some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders! Rugged Rangitoto Island is perfect for hikes, surrounded with stunning volcanic rock and lava fields, and provides a spectacular vantage point to observe Auckland across the harbor. Maungawhau, or Mount Eden, is another of the city’s volcanic wonders; its verdant crater is a sight to behold and remains one of Auckland’s most visited attractions. Head to Waiheke Island to visit Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary, a protected wildlife sanctuary where some of New Zealand’s most eye-catching fauna roam, or hit the beaches of Waitakere Ranges Regional Park to take in the glittering ocean views and soak up some sun. Travel two hours south to marvel at New Zealand’s rolling green hills when you explore the immersive set for The Shire, the fictional village from the ever-popular Lord of the Rings novels and film franchise.

Auckland, New Zealand awaits you!

Sydney, Australia's iconic harbor city, is a dazzling blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. At the heart of its allure is the world-renowned Sydney Opera House, an architectural marvel that hosts an array of performances from opera to contemporary music. Its distinctive sail-like design makes it one of the most photographed buildings in the world. A tour of the Opera House offers insights into its fascinating history and architectural innovations.

Nearby, the Sydney Harbour Bridge provides a thrilling experience for adventure seekers. Visitors can climb to the top of this steel giant for panoramic views of the city and harbor, a breathtaking way to appreciate Sydney’s spectacular waterfront. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, a walk across the bridge offers equally stunning vistas.

Sydney's beaches are legendary, with Bondi Beach standing out as a must-visit destination. Known for its golden sands and surf culture, Bondi is perfect for a day of sunbathing or taking a dip in the Pacific. The Bondi to Coogee coastal walk offers scenic views of the rugged coastline and is a great way to explore other beautiful beaches along the way.

Fun fact: Sydney's Taronga Zoo is unique for its conservation efforts and its stunning location overlooking Sydney Harbour. It's one of the few zoos in the world where you can see animals while enjoying views of the iconic skyline.