Day 1 (MAY 4, 2025): Perth (Fremantle), Australia

Embark at 1:00pm.

A stunning setting along Swan River and the Indian Ocean welcomes you into the laid-back city of Perth. At Kings Park, one of the few urban parks that dwarf Central Park, take in breathtaking views of downtown Perth and plan your day. Explore the city’s range of eclectic neighborhoods, immerse yourself in indigenous art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia, or discover Australia’s native wildlife at the Perth Zoo. Travel to nearby Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region, to visit one of the many historic vineyards for a tasting of excellent local wines. Meanwhile, discover Fremantle’s distinct character through its 19th century port streetscape. Dive into its seafaring history at the Western Australia Maritime Museum and Shipwreck Galleries, visit Fremantle Prison or explore the Manjaree Heritage Trail for a glimpse of life before European settlement.

Day 2 (MAY 5, 2025): Busselton, Australia

Known as Western Australia’s premier resort town, Busselton is the perfect getaway to experience the combination of a slow-paced seaside town and a bustling cosmopolitan city. This beautiful city is an interesting locale on its own, but it is also a gateway port to the well-known Margaret River wine region. Busselton is known for its impeccable coastline and the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the Underwater Observatory, a fantastic aquarium with more than 300 marine species waiting to be enjoyed. If you love natural beauty, enjoy the beautiful beaches and astonishing limestone caves. Culture and history lovers should visit the Busselton Museum or the Old Courthouse Art Complex, both providing an inside look into the ins and outs of the region both now and hundreds of years ago.

Day 3 (MAY 6, 2025): Albany, Australia

Western Australia’s oldest colonial settlement, Albany holds not only great historical significance but also immense natural beauty. Founded in 1826 as a British military outpost, the town evolved into a provisioning port for ships, a departure point for Australian troops bound for World War I, and eventually a base for the whaling industry. History buffs will be intrigued by sites such as the Anglican church, town hall, restored gaol and a one-of-a-kind whaling station museum, while the dramatic scenery of the rugged coastline will astound anyone fortunate enough to sail into Princess Royal Harbour. Known as Ataturk Entrance, the channel accessing the harbor from King George Sound is quite narrow, with forested peaks rising on either side from the rocky shores and sweeping white beaches. The view from your ship’s deck provides the perfect introduction to the natural wonders embracing this historic town.

Day 4 (MAY 7, 2025): Esperance, Australia

Tucked away in secluded tranquility on the Bay of Isles, Esperance enchants with its easygoing attitude and pristine natural beauty. Explore Cape Le Grand National Park to witness friendly kangaroos and traverse the rugged coast by trail for gorgeous ocean views. Just off the coast of Esperance, nearly 100 untouched islands compose the stunning Recherche Archipelago, offering white sand beaches, eucalyptus forests, a unique pink-hued lake and extensive colonies of sea eagles, sea lions and fur seals. Spend the afternoon at Twilight Beach and marvel at the unusual rock formations, or visit the Esperance Museum for relics of local history, including pioneer memorabilia, shipwreck remains, aboriginal artifacts and more.

Day 5 (MAY 8, 2025): Day at Sea

Day 6 (MAY 9, 2025): Day at Sea

Day 7-8 (May 10-11, 2025): Adelaide, Australia

South Australia’s coastal capital, Adelaide combines the charm of a picturesque country town with lively cosmopolitan offerings. Discover the region’s history at the South Australian Art Museum or browse local delicacies such as Adelaide Hills cheeses at the impressive Central Market. Visit Adelaide Oval, celebrated as the world’s prettiest cricket ground, for a behind-the-scenes look at the iconic stadium’s history. For a taste of the local wine culture, venture into the countryside to explore Barossa Valley, Clare Valley or McLaren Vale, three excellent nearby wine regions.

Day 9 (MAY 12, 2025): Penneshaw (Kangaroo Island), Australia

Perhaps one of Australia’s most beautiful hidden gems, Kangaroo Island is home to thriving native wildlife, dramatic coastal cliffs, lush eucalyptus forests, rolling green hills and gorgeous beaches. In Penneshaw, discover indigenous fairy penguins, the smallest species of penguin, or visit Island Beach for snorkeling, swimming and birdwatching. Travel to spectacular Flinders National Park to encounter koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, fur seals and massive rock formations, or visit Seal Bay Conservation Park for the unforgettable experience of walking among a colony of friendly sea lions. Or simply relax with a glass of sparkling shiraz and enjoy the views from Sunset Winery, perched on a hill overlooking the Eastern Cove.

Day 10 (MAY 13, 2025): Portland, Australia

As Victoria’s first European settlement, this vibrant harbor town features a lovely historic waterfront and well-preserved colonial architecture. For insight into Portland’s past, stroll Julia Street, lined with heritage buildings, and stop at the History House, a fascinating museum housed in the former town hall. Discover Portland’s whaling history at the Portland Maritime Discovery Center and later watch Southern Right Whales, Blue Whales and seals frolic in Portland Bay, Cape Nelson or Cape Bridgewater. Just beyond Bridgewater, explore blowholes, a geological formation made of basalt and scoria rock which creates stunning spouts of sea spray during high tide. Don’t miss the remarkable petrified forest, also nearby.

Day 11 (MAY 14, 2025): Melbourne, Australia

Head into the scenic Dandenong Mountains and ride the Puffing Billy steam train through the forest. Meet the koalas, wallabies and more at a wildlife park or explore local wineries. Take a walk and discover the city's marvelous architecture, chic galleries and boutiques.

Day 12 (MAY 15, 2025): Geelong, Australia

Enjoy one of the most vibrant waterfronts in all of Australia, with immaculate walkways, shops, restaurants and public artworks. Visit a local winery or two, explore the national Wool Museum for shearing demonstrations, or go snorkeling, jet skiing or kite surfing.

Day 13 (MAY 16, 2025): Burnie (Tasmania), Australia

Nestled in the northwest corner of Tasmania, this energetic and creative seaside town offers a unique perspective on the world of industry. Once dependent on paper manufacturing, the inventive community has transformed its industry into a compelling art culture. Visit Makers’ Workshop, part museum and part arts center, for an introduction to the inspired spirit of Burnie, along with a tour of the process of papermaking and a glimpse of local artisans at work on their handicrafts. Discover Burnie’s natural gems on the many trails at Fern Glade Reserve or the picturesque Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden.

Day 14 (MAY 17, 2025): Day at Sea

Day 15 (MAY 18, 2025): Eden, Australia

Formerly a whaling hub in the 19th century, Eden is the southernmost town in New South Wales, nestled between two glorious bays and perched on rolling hills bounded by dramatic cliffs and expansive sandy beaches. Eden’s whaling legacy lives on in its exciting whale-watching opportunities and the fascinating Killer Whale Museum. At the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre, towering lighthouses and the scenic coastline keep the focus firmly on the ever-changing sea.

Day 16-17 (MAY 19-20, 2025): Sydney, Australia

Visit the famous Opera House, stroll along the harbor or cruise around it. Climb the Harbor Bridge, take a walk through the Rocks where Sydney began, or enjoy celebrated Bondi Beach. Head into the beautiful Blue Mountains for a taste of the country; visit a wildlife park and enjoy Australia’s fabulously unique creatures.

Day 18-20 (MAY 21-23, 2025): Day at Sea

Day 21 (MAY 24, 2025): Picton, New Zealand

Built around a sheltered harbor, Picton boasts a picturesque seafront lined with cafés, restaurants and galleries. Popular attractions include a floating maritime museum and an aquarium. Local operators offer cruising tours, fishing, dolphin watching and sea kayaking. A beautiful local attraction, the Queen Charlotte Track is navigable on foot or bike. From Picton guests can also explore the scenic Marlborough Sounds.

Day 22 (MAY 25, 2025): Wellington, New Zealand

Stroll past Victorian Gothic buildings, visit the exquisite botanic gardens, take the cable car up the mountain for a fantastic view, or head for the city beach. Journey around the spectacular harbor with its amazing views and visit a sheep or cattle station. See some of the sites where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed.

Day 23 (MAY 26, 2025): Napier, New Zealand

Spend time admiring the marvelous Art Deco architecture for which Napier is known. Enjoy the picturesque countryside, tour superb area vineyards and sample the vintages. Visit a huge nesting colony of gannets near the spot where Captain Cook landed.

Day 24 (MAY 27, 2025): Rotorua (Tauranga), New Zealand

Discover Tauranga's lovely parks and history or head to Rotorua with its fabulous geysers, hot springs and Maori culture. Explore the Rangitaiki River and its amazing scenery.

Day 25 (MAY 28, 2025): Auckland, New Zealand

Disembark at 8:00am. 

Enjoy this beautiful city, its enormous parks and spectacular views from Mount Eden. Learn about Maori culture; visit the famed Waitomo Glowworm Caves and their fantastic formations. Or head for the coast and the crashing surf, see a gannet colony and admire the sheep farms along the way. Visit an area vineyard or one of sixty volcanoes.