Mesmerizing Melanesia

There are two dedicated cruise passenger terminals - the White Bay Cruise Terminal at Rozelle and the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay in the city centre. This is your opportunity to marvel at Australia’s famous icons, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge as you glide past The Heads - the dramatic sandstone cliffs at the entrance of the harbour.

Nestled in the heart of the dreamily named Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba is a former sleepy surf town that has become a popular beach destination. Mooloolaba’s glamorous beachfront esplanade is full of outdoor cafes, juice bars, alfresco restaurants, and fashion boutiques. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the wharf.

Top Things to Do in Mooloolaba:

• visit Australia Zoo
• explore Noosa and surrounds
• take in spectacular views of the Glasshouse Mountains at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve

The Whitsundays, an idyllic cluster of 74 islands off Queensland's coast, are the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Visit Whitehaven Beach, renowned for its pristine silica sands and crystal-clear waters. For panoramic views, take a short hike to Hill Inlet Lookout. Snorkeling and diving are top activities here, with spots like the vibrant coral gardens of Hardy Reef showcasing marine biodiversity.

For those interested in marine life, a trip to the Great Barrier Reef is a must. Explore the underwater world at popular dive sites like the Bait Reef or Heart Reef, where you can encounter colorful corals and diverse marine species. For a unique experience, consider a scenic flight over the reef to appreciate its vastness and beauty from above.

Ships docking at Airlie Beach typically anchor offshore, with passengers tendered to the Port of Airlie Marina. The marina is conveniently located just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the town center - a quick 5-minute walk. For those interested in local culture, the Airlie Beach Markets, held every Saturday, feature an array of crafts, fresh produce, and unique souvenirs or take a leisurely stroll along the Airlie Beach Lagoon, a saltwater swimming spot perfect for a dip!

Nestled on Australia's northeast coast, Cairns is your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef system. Dive or snorkel to witness its vibrant marine life, or opt for a scenic reef cruise. For a land-based adventure, explore the Daintree Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can walk among ancient trees and spot diverse wildlife. The Cairns Esplanade offers a relaxed stroll with stunning views, public art, and a swimming lagoon. Don't miss the chance to sample fresh local seafood and tropical fruits at Rusty's Markets.

A quaint frontier town, scenically located on Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland, Cooktown is the site of Australia’s first European settlement. It is a beautiful, unspoilt, small historic coastal town surrounded by stunning countryside. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the port. 

Top Things to Do in Cooktown:

• take a historic cruise down the Endeavour River
• visit Black Mountain
• have a beer at the quirky Lion's Den Hotel
• visit the museum brimming with artifacts from Cook’s ship 
  

Australia's only tropical capital city, Darwin is rich in culture and ethnically diverse. While the Northern Territory boasts some of the most incredible wildlife on the planet, the city's museums celebrate the city's past and the galleries showcase the region's rich indigenous art. Ships will dock at Fort Hill Wharf.

Top Things to Do in Darwin:

• cruise the Darwin Harbour
• explore Litchfield or Kakadu National Park
• visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
• take a Jumping Crocodile Cruise
• visit the Darwin Botanic Gardens

Indonesia’s isolated Komodo Island is a natural wonder of tropical savanna and scrubland, home to the famed pre-historic Komodo dragon. Komodo National Park is the only place on earth that they can be found in the wild.

The national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and visitors must be escorted by a park ranger, independent exploration of the park is not permitted.

If you're leery of these reptiles, the ecologically diverse waters around the island provide superb diving and snorkelling and are home to graceful manta rays, dolphins and even seahorses.

Bali is an island paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. Start your day with a visit to the sacred Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, offering breathtaking sunset views and traditional Kecak dance performances. For nature enthusiasts, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud provide a picturesque backdrop perfect for a leisurely walk or a photo opportunity.

Don't miss the bustling markets of Ubud, where you can find unique handicrafts and local delicacies. Bali is also home to world-class spa experiences, making it an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you're exploring the art scene in Ubud or simply lounging on the beach, Bali offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Celukan Bawang, located in the northern region of Bali, Indonesia, is primarily known as a bustling port town, serving both as a key import hub and a gateway for visitors exploring the island's less frequented northern shores. The area around Celukan Bawang is less touristy compared to Bali’s southern parts, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the local Balinese people and traditional industries such as fishing and agriculture.

There are opportunities to explore local markets teeming with fresh produce and handicrafts, providing an authentic cultural experience. Nearby attractions include the tranquil Lovina Beach, and the hot springs of Banjar, which are set in a lush tropical garden.

Bali is an island paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. Start your day with a visit to the sacred Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, offering breathtaking sunset views and traditional Kecak dance performances. For nature enthusiasts, the Tegallalang Rice Terraces in Ubud provide a picturesque backdrop perfect for a leisurely walk or a photo opportunity.

Don't miss the bustling markets of Ubud, where you can find unique handicrafts and local delicacies. Bali is also home to world-class spa experiences, making it an ideal place to relax and rejuvenate. Whether you're exploring the art scene in Ubud or simply lounging on the beach, Bali offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Benoa is located on the southern tip of Bali and is the key gateway for travellers exploring this Indonesian island. The port is approximately 12 kms (7.5 miles) from the bustling city of Denpasar - a journey of around 30 minutes. You'll dock directly at the terminal, allowing easy access to transport options.

Indonesia’s isolated Komodo Island is a natural wonder of tropical savanna and scrubland, home to the famed pre-historic Komodo dragon. Komodo National Park is the only place on earth that they can be found in the wild.

The national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and visitors must be escorted by a park ranger, independent exploration of the park is not permitted.

If you're leery of these reptiles, the ecologically diverse waters around the island provide superb diving and snorkelling and are home to graceful manta rays, dolphins and even seahorses.

As Indonesia is known as the land of laughs and smiles, the people of West Timor will delight you with their welcoming nature. In Kupang, the capital of West Timor, you’re likely to notice influences from the Dutch and Portuguese colonial eras when Kupang was an important trading post.

Visit the Museum of Nusa Tenggara Timur to discover artifacts from the province and insights on the city’s legacy and historical occasions in the region. Natural wonders are plentiful too. Crystal Cave is a stunning attraction named after its clear water, and jungle-shrouded Oenesu Waterfall is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Lovely beaches are nearby as well – try Lasiana for its white sand and calm waves or Pantai Tedis to watch the sun set and enjoy local Indonesian fare.

Australia's only tropical capital city, Darwin is rich in culture and ethnically diverse. While the Northern Territory boasts some of the most incredible wildlife on the planet, the city's museums celebrate the city's past and the galleries showcase the region's rich indigenous art. Ships will dock at Fort Hill Wharf.

Top Things to Do in Darwin:

• cruise the Darwin Harbour
• explore Litchfield or Kakadu National Park
• visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
• take a Jumping Crocodile Cruise
• visit the Darwin Botanic Gardens

Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, is a city rich in culture and history, set against a backdrop of stunning coastal scenery. The National Museum and Art Gallery offers a fascinating insight into the country's diverse cultures and artifacts. Ela Beach, with its golden sands and clear waters, is perfect for relaxation and swimming.

For a taste of local life, visit the bustling Boroko Market, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional artifacts. The city is also home to the Port Moresby Nature Park, where visitors can see native wildlife, including birds of paradise and tree kangaroos.

Capital of Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay Province, Alotau is steeped in history, rich in culture and blessed with natural beauty.The gateway to some of the most remote island communities remaining in the world today, this is a place that is enriched with age-old culture and traditions. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Alotau:

• explore skull cave
• visit the memorial commemorating WWII’s Battle of Milne Bay
• take a traditional clay pot cooking class
• experience life in a traditional village
• snorkel the shipwreck at Waga Waga

Honiara is the capital city of and the gateway to The Solomon Islands. Whether you take to the beautiful waters or explore the land around you, World War II history and stunning natural beauty mean that any option is the right one. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to shore.

Top Things to Do in Honiara:

• check out the busy Central Market
• explore the US War Memorial
• visit the Japanese Peace Park Memorial
• visit a Melanesian cultural village
• snorkel or Dive WWI shipwrecks
  

Formed by volcanoes, Luganville (known simply as 'Santo' by the locals) is the second largest city in Vanuatu and is home to beautiful beaches, towering mountains, natural blue holes and fascinating WWII history. Ships will dock at the Luganville port.

Top Things to Do in Luganville:

• visit the South Pacific WWII Museum
• snorkel or dive to see the WWII military equipment at Million Dollar Point
• swim at the stunning Blue Hole
• take a glass-bottom boat tour over the coral reef

In Port Vila, Vanuatu's energetic capital, you'll be greeted by friendly Bislama-speaking locals and street-side markets. The city is perfectly located around a beautiful harbour and still holds a touch of French influence in the form of bistros and murals. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Port Vila:

• Sail to Dream cove for a snorkel adventure
• visit the Cascade Waterfalls
• take a buggy on an off-road adventure
• join a thrilling jet boat ride in Port Vila's bay waters
• zip-line through the jungle

Known as Sugar City, Lautoka is framed by the blue Pacific Ocean on the western side and green gold sugar cane and pine trees on the other sides. In the city you'll find wide-open streets lined with swaying palm trees and colonial-style houses. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do in Lautoka:

• snorkel at Savala or Bounty Island
• bathe in a natural geothermal mud pond
• visit a traditional village
• explore the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park
• visit the nearby town of Nadi

Fiji's capital city is a modern multicultural centre dotted with colonial-era buildings, and numerous parks and gardens tucked among the hilly peninsula. Cultural activities, delicious cuisine and abundant shopping offer something for everyone. Ships will dock at King's Wharf.

Top Things to Do in Suva:

• explore the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park
• visit the eco-friendly Pure Fiji beauty care factory
• take a longboat along the Navua River
• learn about the Fijian way of life at a local village
• relax at a beachfront resort

The capital of New Caledonia, Noumea is a little piece of France in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It has all the flavour and ambience of a bustling, sophisticated provincial french town with the friendly charms, adventure and heavenly climate of the pacific islands. Ships will dock at the port.

Top Things to Do on Noumea:

• tour Noumea on the Tchou Tchou Train
• sail to and snorkel the New Caledonia Lagoon
• visit Amedee Island
• explore Parc Forestier

Ships arriving into Sydney typically dock at Circular Quay, or the White Bay Cruise Terminal, slightly farther west. From Circular Quay, you can easily access the iconic Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Garden. Public transport options include trains, buses, and ferries. White Bay passengers can take a shuttle or taxi to reach key attractions like Darling Harbour and The Rocks, known for their shops, restaurants, and historical sites.