Day 1 (DEC 28, 2025): Sydney, Australia

Make the most of your time in one of the liveliest, must-see cities of the Pacific Rim. From bustling Circular Quay along the glamorous waterfront, take in the graceful sails of Sydney’s iconic Opera House. Catch a glimpse of the past along the narrow, twisting laneways of the historic Rocks district in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Head west to the spectacular, untamed beauty of the Blue Mountains for a ride on the world’s steepest perpendicular railway. Get up close with Australia’s charming wildlife at the Koala Park Sanctuary, then end your day with a refreshing stop at a traditional Aussie pub.

Day 2 (DEC 29, 2025): Cruising the Tasman Sea

Days 3-4 (DEC 30-31, 2025): Melbourne, Australia

Split into competing halves by the Yarra River, this most European of Australian cities is packed with charms both obvious and hidden. The ‘CBD’ is easily explored via trams and tree-lined sidewalks, most especially on historic Collins Street, where stately Gothic buildings and glittering skyscrapers cast shadows upon well-dressed Melburnians. Walk the gloriously landscaped Fitzroy Gardens, discover the city’s gold-rush-origins at Melbourne Museum, wander the eclectic offerings at Queen Victoria Market or explore heaps of world-class cafes and shops tucked into cozy, colorful laneways. Melbourne’s diversity abounds in its neighborhoods, from St. Kilda’s bayside promenade to Carlton’s Italian-bisto-laden Lygon Street to the Vietnamese eateries of Richmond.

Day 5 (JAN 1, 2026): Phillip Island, Australia

Phillip Island will captivate you with its iconic wildlife, pristine white beaches and hi-octane motor sports. From tiny penguins to sleepy koalas to Australia’s largest fur seal colony, you can find them here in their natural habitat as part of the UNESCO Western Port Biosphere Reserve. Take in some of the best surfing in the country at Cape Woolamai, set against the backdrop of ancient pink granite. The region was recently declared a National Surfing Reserve in recognition of its rich surfing heritage and pristine natural environment. For a thrilling racing experience visit the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit.

Day 6 (JAN 2, 2026): Burnie (Tasmania), Australia

Perched on Tasmania’s northwest coast, this self-described ‘city of makers and creators’ boasts a proud industrial history, proximity to dramatic nature reserves and locally made cheese and whiskey. Travel back to Burnie’s 19th-century pioneer beginnings on a wander of the Burnie Regional Museum’s Federation Street. Head inland to the picturesque Mount Dial Nature Recreation Area and a wildlife park for encounters with iconic Australian fauna like wombats, sugar gliders and, of course, ‘Tassie’ Devils. Keep an eye out for one of nature’s most unique creatures at the nearby Fern Glade Platypus Reserve, or travel to true wilderness at the World Heritage-listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.

Days 7-8 (JAN 3-4, 2026): Cruising the Tasman Sea

Day 9 (JAN 5, 2026): Cruising the Fjords of Milford Sound

Day 10 (JAN 6, 2026): Dunedin, New Zealand

This remarkably preserved Victorian city lies at the head of a fiord-like inlet and surrounded by lush, green hills. Due to the Otago gold rush of the 1860s, Dunedin was the largest and wealthiest city in the country and the first to have gaslight, water mains, hydro power and steam trams. Discover the geological wonders of the rugged Otago Peninsula while keeping an eye out for fur seals on the rocks and perhaps some yellow-eyed penguins. Visit Larnach Castle, a historic 19th-century property surrounded by gardens and splendid views. Explore historic Dunedin with its splendid Victorian and Edwardian stone buildings, delightful local crafts and restaurants serving Kiwi specialties.

Day 11 (JAN 7, 2026): Timaru, New Zealand

Scenically poised on the east coast of the South Island, Timaru is the gateway to New Zealand’s most majestic mountains, including its highest peak Mt Cook. Timaru has recaptured much of its Edwardian heritage with vibrant plantings of roses and trees, and a pedestrian-friendly landscape of paved areas, seating and vantage points from which to enjoy the city’s setting between ocean and alps. Tour the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden and stroll the striking piazza, with its stunning views across Caroline Bay, complemented by the numerous café-bars and restaurants.

Day 12 (JAN 8, 2026): Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand

Experience a vibrant city undergoing a true transformation. Christchurch, long known for its English heritage, suffered devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. An epic rebuild has created an urban center filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand, with colorful murals celebrating the city's indomitable spirit. Stroll expansive Hagley Park, home to the indigenous and exotic plants of a lush Botanic Garden. Visit the galleries, boutiques and cafes of the Arts Centre. Drive through the emerald plains of the Canterbury region to visit a working sheep farm for a demonstration of champion New Zealand sheepdogs herding a flock by whistled command.

Day 13 (JAN 9, 2026): Wellington, New Zealand

Nicknamed New Zealand’s ‘Creative Capital’ and situated at the southern end of the North Island, Wellington is a compact city brimming with Victorian architecture, museums, theaters and art galleries. Besides the Academy Award-winning Weta Workshop and the nation’s distinctive Parliament, you’ll find Kiwis with a passion for expertly made coffee and craft beer served in laneway cafes and vibrant pubs. Stand atop Mt. Victoria for panoramic views of the harbor and stunning mountains and ride a cable car to lush botanic gardens. Visit Te Papa Tongarewa, NZ’s national museum, and the groundbreaking Zealandia ecosanctuary for fascinating insights into New Zealand’s cultural and natural treasures.

Day 14 (JAN 10, 2026): Napier, New Zealand

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 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 colorful vineyards and orchards, with some of the most fertile farmland you will see. Within the region are more than twenty of New Zealand's finest vineyards.

Days 15-16 (JAN 11-12, 2026): Auckland, New Zealand

Shimmering Auckland lies on a narrow isthmus between the sparkling waters of the Waitemata and Manukau harbors. Marvel at the cosmopolitan city’s volcanic landscape in suburbs boasting iconic cones with Maori and English names like Maungawhau/Mount Eden (the city’s highest point), Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill and Maungarei/Mount Wellington. Browse the shops of Queen Street or the Parnell area with their galleries and boutiques in quaintly restored Victorian buildings, or visit the Skytower for loftier views. See first-hand why Auckland is called the ‘City of Sails’ on a harbor cruise aboard a ketch-rigged sailing yacht before exploring an enticing array of eclectic restaurants, bars and cafes.