Updated October 2017
Welcome to the Land Down Under, where natural beauty, extreme landscapes, iconic cities, breath-taking wildlife, 40,000 years of Aboriginal heritage, the Great Barrier Reef, and a beach lifestyle to envy are seen as the norm.
Australasia is a glorious place to visit, this vast island region that comprises of Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea, and neighbouring islands in the Pacific Ocean. From the outbacks in Australia's heartland and the luscious Blue Mountains in Sydney, all the way to the sandy shores on the gold coast and the fascinating Maori culture in New Zealand. Few places in the world are as inspiring as Australasia; this great region evokes a charm that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. Considering all it has to offer, knowing where to start can be a challenge.
A trip Down Under will amaze you - this part of the world has long been synonymous with escape, exploration, and adventure, and very rightly so. There are few places in the world that offer as much diversity as Australasia. Between the captivating cosmopolitan cities along the coasts, you’ll discover an immense region teeming with natural wonders, majestic sights, and sheer beauty. You will never be short of things to see and adventures to embark on in Australasia.
Onboard an unforgettable Australasia cruise guests will be left in awe. With so much to explore, there are so many first time experiences to be had and unforgettable memories to create. In this feature, World Cruise Expert and Planet Cruise Weekly presenter Keith Maynard gives you his expert travel tips to three exciting destinations on a Australasia Cruise itinerary.
Sydney
Sydney is an iconic spectacle, from its world famous harbour - home to its towering bridge and artistically designed Opera House - all the way to the unique Bondi beach. Away from the golden shores and city lights Sydney thrives in other ways; experience the Featherdale Wildlife Park where koalas roam free, and the Blue Mountains that offer outstanding views way up in the clouds.
Darwin
Located in Australia's northern territory is the famously named tropical city of Darwin. Renowned for its colourful culture, adventurous activities, sensational food, and fascinating sunset markets at Mindil Beach, visitors to Darwin will have a lot to enjoy. Situated closer to Bali than Sydney, Darwin presents a unique feel in comparison to other Australian cities. Everyone should try to make it there to explore its many charms.
Auckland
Built on top of an active volcanic field is New Zealands capital city Auckland. The cultural milieu of the city is very diverse with its distinctive Maori, European, and Asian influence present throughout. Visitors to the city will discover black-sand beaches, fine restaurants and eateries, stylish monuments like the glass bottom Sky Tower, and natural wonders like Waiheke Island, accessible by ferry.
Check out our Australasia Cruise page for more information.