Southern Seas Explorer – Perth to San Diego

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.

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.

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.

Esperance is a town on the south coast of Western Australia. Its beaches include calm Blue Haven, and West Beach, with its surf breaks. Nearby, Cape Le Grand National Park has beaches like Lucky Bay, plus heathlands and wildflowers. Offshore, the Recherche Archipelago islands shelter fur seals and sea lions. On Middle Island, Lake Hillier is a striking shade of pink. In town, Pink Lake is sometimes pink.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Relish the opportunities in this natural playground as you observe flying dolphins, gannets and blue penguins. The diving is renowned as some of the best in the world. Visit the historic Waitangi Treaty House, where the founding document of New Zealand was signed.

Known as “The Paris of the Pacific,” the capital city of New Caledonia still maintains a village atmosphere. Visit the new Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Center, try wind-surfing, or share a bottle of vin rouge while relaxing at La Place des Cocotiers.

A tiny, uninhabited island off the coast of Vanuatu’s Aneityum Island, Mystery Island is a remote paradise of white sand beaches, swaying palms and aquamarine waters. Since the surrounding sea is a protected marine sanctuary, snorkelers will be enchanted by views of colorful marine life and pristine coral reefs. Aneityum residents will likely set up market stalls on Mystery Island when you visit, so you’ll be able to browse local goods like coconut oil, coffee and handmade jewelry. Whether you stroll the gorgeous shoreline, opt for under-the-sea adventures or explore nearby Aneityum, you’ll treasure your time in this secret oasis.

Wander through this capital city’s joyous streets; take free ferries to small offshore islands, visit the Vanuatu Cultural Center in town, or snorkel, horseback ride or hike up to the beautiful Cascade Waterfalls.

Espiritu Santo is the largest island in Vanuatu, an archipelago country in the South Pacific. It’s known for its beaches, such as Champagne Beach and Lonnoc Beach, with coral reefs and clear, sheltered waters. The town of Luganville has WWII relics like Quonset huts at Main Wharf. Nearby, popular dive sites include the sunken SS President Coolidge cruise liner and Million Dollar Point’s submerged U.S. war machinery.

Nicknamed “Sugar City,” it’s in the heart of the soft coral capital of the world. Snorkel, scuba, take a boat to a nearby deserted island; visit lush rainforests, local potters and orchid farms.

Enjoy the tropical rainforest climate of Fiji’s capital city, the largest in the South Pacific. Wander the Victoria Parade, the main thoroughfare with shops and restaurants.

Apia is located on the northern shore of Upolu, Samoa’s second largest island and home to spectacular rainforests, waterfalls, sand dunes, beaches and brilliant sunrises and sunsets. Writer Robert Louis Stevenson spent the last four years of his life here and is buried on Mount Vaea, overlooking the village of Vailima and the home he built there, which is now a museum in his honor.

Remote, verdant and stunningly beautiful, this island is pure and pristine. Visit one of the many tuna canneries or snorkel in the crystalline waters of one of the protected lagoons. Find a fale, a gazebo where locals perform for visitors.

The dramatic Mount Otemanu stands watch over the sparkling turquoise waters and sugary sands of Bora Bora, known as the most romantic island in the world. Snorkel, swim with the manta rays or enjoy an outrigger canoe ride through the lagoon and its lovely coral islands.

The dramatic Mount Otemanu stands watch over the sparkling turquoise waters and sugary sands of Bora Bora, known as the most romantic island in the world. Snorkel, swim with the manta rays or enjoy an outrigger canoe ride through the lagoon and its lovely coral islands.

You’ll notice the rich scent of vanilla the moment you step off the ship onto this stunning island, with its vanilla plantations scattered throughout. Visit one or two, visit a pearl farm, snorkel the clear waters of the surrounding reef, or take a kayak trip along the Faaroa River.

The island of Tahiti’s urban center has much to offer visitors. Take a stroll through the new Jardins Paofai, watch the surfers on their longboards, marvel at Faarumai Waterfalls, The Blowhole, Fern Grottos.

The island of Tahiti’s urban center has much to offer visitors. Take a stroll through the new Jardins Paofai, watch the surfers on their longboards, marvel at Faarumai Waterfalls, The Blowhole, Fern Grottos.

Breathtakingly beautiful, stunning landscapes await, from the verdant mountains to the azure seas and white sand beaches. Take a canoe ride through the lagoon; snorkel, scuba or helmet-dive the reefs, or hike up to the Afareaitu Waterfalls.

Pure, pristine and dreamlike, the ecosystem of this gorgeous island is home to extremely rare birds, plants and crustaceans. Quaint villages, old coral churches and welcoming people are intertwined with a spectacular lagoon creating a paradise like none other in the world.

Visit the entrancing Vaipo Waterfalls and Cascade Tevaipo, which is one of the world’s tallest falls at over 1,100 feet. Wander the black sand beaches, marvel at the giant tiki at Piki Vehini, or get adventurous on an all-terrain vehicle excursion around the craggy island.

Enjoy the sun-drenched beaches surrounding this active city, climb Diamond Head or visit the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on U.S. soil. Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial or take a surfing lesson on Waikiki Beach.

Enjoy the sun-drenched beaches surrounding this active city, climb Diamond Head or visit the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on U.S. soil. Pay your respects at the USS Arizona Memorial or take a surfing lesson on Waikiki Beach.

Located on the lush windward side of Hawaii’s Big Island, Hilo is the starting point to explore the eastern part of this lovely isle. Drive the 11-mile rim of Kilauea volcano and marvel at the dramatic lava formations of Volcanoes National Park. At the majestic Akaka Falls, water cascades more than 400 feet into a pool below, and the splendid Liliuokalani Gardens are authentic Japanese gardens created in the early 1900s.

San Diego is living proof that a big city can still feel like a small town. Its Spanish heritage is evident at popular sights like the Junípero Serra Museum, where the first mission was founded, and at Point Loma, which is dominated by a statue of explorer Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo. The breathtaking point is also a great spot to watch for migrating Pacific gray whales. Other noteworthy attractions include the thought-provoking San Diego Museum of Man, the peaceful Botanical Building and Lily Pond, and the signature San Diego Zoo, where rare species such as giant pandas and lowland gorillas are exhibited. Ship buffs will enjoy the maritime museum, where you can board and tour the vessels.