Discover the Blue Mountains & Scenic Railway

Depart the pier and journey out to the World Heritage Site of The Blue Mountains. En route, there are views of the natural bushland and the many suburbs of greater Sydney extending out to the west. Once in the mountains, you pass through numerous small towns that are weekend retreats. Follow the trail of Australia's early explorers as your coach climbs the Blue Mountains and heads toward the township of Leura. Enjoy some free time to explore Leura Mall. Here you will find many fine coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants and galleries. Continue on to Echo Point Lookout for views of the world-famous rock formation "The Three Sisters." Weather permitting; you may also enjoy distant panoramas of the Jamieson Valley, Mount Solitary, the Ruined Castle, Katoomba falls and the Burraborang Valley. A leisurely lunch is then served at The Carrington Hotel (or similar venue).

In the afternoon, admire the stunning views from the elevated boardwalk at Scenic World, before taking a ride on the world's steepest perpendicular railway, plunging 700 feet into the valley. Enjoy a brief walk along the rainforest floor, before taking the Scenic cable car for the return ride to the top. Re-board your coach, after a countryside experience and return to the pier.

4WD Blue Mountains Tour

Depart Sydney in your off-road vehicle and travel directly to the Featherdale Wildlife Park for an up-close look at one of the best collections of Australian animals. Explore the park independently before boarding the four-wheel-drive vehicles to traverse the canyon.

Pass through fertile farmland known as the fruit bowl area, see the historic early settlement town of Richmond, and then cross the Hawkesbury River to explore the Bells Line of Road. This is the land of the mountain apple and north-western passage over the mountains. Breathe in the invigorating scent of the Australian eucalyptus as you travel into the Burralow Creek National Park, a young river canyon. A short walk along this trail reveals towering eucalyptus, red gums, grass trees, and other varieties of Australian flora.

Arriving at Mount Tomah Botanical Gardens, lunch is served at Mount Tomah Hermons Restaurant (or similar). Sip a glass of wine or beer while you dine in this beautiful setting before travelling on to Katoomba and Echo Point Lookout. Once there, admire the stunning vistas of the Blue Mountains, breathtaking Jamieson Valley, and famous Three Sisters rock formations.

Afterwards, re-board your off-road vehicle for the two-hour return drive to Sydney. En route, pass through Olympic Park prior to returning to your ship.

Manly by Bike & Ferry

Meet your friendly guide at the pier and walk to the Sydney Ferry terminal. Enjoy your 30 minute ferry journey to Manly, where you will collect your bike, a helmet and a local Manly map, showing the bike trails.

Run by expert local guides, this 2 hour tour reveals all the hidden corners of Sydney's most beautiful coastal town. Hear the stories and relive the history that makes Manly what it is today. Included in the tour is bike and helmet hire, light refreshments, tour guide, and exclusive access to landmark attractions. The tour follows the Sydney Harbour National Park Explorer and Bike the Beach routes.

After your cycling tour spend an extra hour free time in Manly for a lunch or coffee stop (at guests own expense) before returning to meet your guide. Return to the city by ferry.

Rocks on Foot

A knowledgeable guide meets you at the pier to inform you on the local sights and history. Contrast the modern glass skyscrapers of the city as you wander past old pubs, terraced houses and sandstone cottages. Tales of the notorious personalities from the convict era come alive as you hear about their various crimes, escapes and punishments.

En route, your guide talks about famous Cadman's Cottage, the Argyle Cut, Campbell's Cove, the "Bounty," and other significant highlights. Hear about the escape route of 19th-century convicts, known as the "Suez Canal," and learn about life during the colony's founding days. Information will also be provided about the Opera House and the Botanical Gardens, both of which lie across the water. At the conclusion of this walk, stop at one of the historic pubs and enjoy a refreshing drink. You can choose to return to the ship with your guide or remain in The Rocks

Sydney Sights, Opera House & Bondi Beach

Discover three icons of this one great city - its imposing skyline and city heart, its famous Bondi Beach, and the Sydney Opera House. Take in the history and stunning views and learn about the fashionable suburbs in the east of the city during this half-day orientation tour. Ready to reserve this excursion?

Depart the pier for an orientation drive through the city and begin your tour at Sydney's oldest village, The Rocks. This historic enclave is nestled in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and depicts the heritage of two centuries along its narrow twisting streets. See a splendid mix of Victorian-era buildings alongside modern-day structures. During the drive through the city centre, your guide points out the magnificent Sydney Tower, Queen Victoria Building, Darling Harbour Complex, Chinatown, and Mrs. Macquarie's Chair.

Visit the Sydney Opera House, officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on October 20, 1973, and one of Sydney's most famous landmarks. Enjoy a short guided tour of this imposing building, view its distinctive sail-like roof, and learn about its history, design and current uses.

The coach continues east of the city to the most sought-after residential areas in Sydney. From Darling Point to Watson's Bay, the shoreline is fringed by vast mansions and expensive apartments overlooking a flotilla of yachts and cruising boats moored along the harbour's edge. Stop briefly to take in the spectacular views at The Gap at Watson's Bay (weather permitting), the southern head of the entrance to Sydney Harbour. Carry on to Bondi Beach, a world-renowned surfing haven featuring delightful cafes and restaurants along its main streets. Disembark the coach to takes some photos before returning to the city. Admire the views as you head down the narrow streets of Paddington, which are lined with picturesque terraces framed with iron-laced balconies, sandstone houses, designer boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.

Sydney Panoramic

Depart the pier and journey through the city centre and catch the spectacular view from Mrs. Macquarie's Chair before heading east to Watson's Bay. The shoreline is lined with elegant mansions and expensive apartment buildings that overlook a flotilla of yachts and motorboats moored along the harbor's edge. A photo stop will be made at Bondi Beach, Australia's famous surfing beach where Sydney-siders enjoy a half-mile crescent of sand and surf, faced by delightful cafes and restaurants across the street.

Returning through the Sydney CBD, view Sydney Tower, the magnificent Queen Victoria Building, the Darling Harbour Complex and Chinatown. Travel back in time as you head toward The Rocks. The heart of the metropolis clings to this area where the first settlers arrived. This historic enclave sits in the shadow of the Harbour Bridge and exhibits the heritage of two centuries in its narrow, twisting streets. Return to the pier.

Manly Beach, Northern Suburbs & Airport Transfer

This half-day outing is for guests who are disembarking and may have a late flight and wish a tour, with a transfer to the Sydney International Airport. See Manly Beach and the Northern Suburbs. Take a final Sydney photograph before being transferred to the Sydney International Airport.

Board your coach from the pier and begin a journey to Sydney's northern beaches and suburbs. Cross the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge or the "Coathanger" as it is affectionately known. Travel north through Neutral Bay and Cremore to explore the stunning Manly Beach.

Enjoy free time to wander independently on Manly beach or perhaps enjoy a drink and a snack in one of the many cafes that line the harbour foreshore. Re-board the coach and continue your sightseeing drive through the exclusive suburbs of Mosman.

Re-board your coach and journey to Sydney Airport.

Perth (Fremantle), Australia

Depart the pier on your transfer to the jetty where you will board the 30 minute ferry to Rottnest Island. Rotto, as its known, is a car-free zone, which adds to its relaxed feel. Upon arrival you will be met by your guide who will take you on a 45 minute guided walk to learn of the island's rich history before embarking on your island coach tour. Explore the beauty and tranquillity of Rottnest Island as you relax in the comfort of an air-conditioned coach; pass the historical, cultural and natural points of interest.

Enjoy a casual lunch at Hotel Rottnest, before enjoying up to 2 hours of free time on the island. With 63 sheltered beaches and 20 bays to choose from, you can always find a place to hide. Surrounded by coral reefs and shipwrecks, the underwater life in and around the island makes snorkelling breathtaking and beautiful (snorkelling equipment available for hire on the island at own expense). A great way to get around the island by bike (hire available on the island at own expense) or you can visit the Museum, Wadjemup Lighthouse.

Return by ferry, where your coach will be waiting to transfer you to your ship.

Fremantle & Perth Orientation

Board your air-conditioned motorcoach and drive through Fremantle. The city's streets are lined with quaint terraced houses, historic buildings, and sidewalk cafes. Pass the Round House at Arthur's Head, an old twelve sided jail, and the Maritime Museum. Hear of the history of Fremantle before making a brief stop at Burswood Park. It is a beautiful public park surrounded by many varieties of water birds, including the Black Swan. If time permits, take a short walk along the lovely sculpture heritage trail.

Continue to the metropolis of Perth, a city with dazzling views from every angle. Soaring skyscrapers form an impressive wall along the Swan River's northern shore. Nearby yachts with multi coloured sails weave wind-blown rainbows across the water. In the distance, the Darling Ranges rise from the coastal plains offering a superb natural backdrop. The prosperity of Perth is evident as you meander past the fabulous mansions on Millionaires' Row.

Before returning to the ship visit Kings Park, overlooking the Swan River and the city of Perth. The park is primarily bush land - except for the lovely gardens atop Mt. Eliza that offer panoramic city views.

Fremantle History & Heritage

Depart the pier and pass the Fremantle Arts Centre. The building was built using convict labour between 1861 and 1868 and was used as a psychiatric hospital, initially called the Fremantle Lunatic Asylum, and later known as the Asylum for the Criminally Insane. It now houses a varied program of exhibitions and events, including outdoor concerts. Enjoy a brief photo stop.

Arrive at Fremantle Prison, located in the heart of bustling Fremantle, this sandstone prison is a lasting monument to the city that was. Step inside and be transported back in time to experience both the good and bad of the town's history. Join a guided tour and see the tiny cells in which people lived day after day, the stunning art painted straight on the walls and the inspiring convict-made architecture. Discover how time was passed in the yards, while marvelling at original prisoner works of art. With a whipping post, gallows and solitary cells, this is a monument to a system of punishment that is uncomfortably recent. Pass the Round House, which is the oldest building still standing in Western Australia. It is located at Arthur Head in Fremantle, originally intended as a prison, it had eight cells and a jailer's residence, all of which opened onto a central courtyard.

Finally arrive at the Shipwreck Galleries, housed in 1850s-era Commissariat building that has since been restored to its historic glory. Steeped in history, the galleries house hundreds of relics from ships wrecked along Western Australia's treacherous coastline, including the original timbers from the Batavia (wrecked in 1629), the de Vlamingh plate, and also countless artefacts from the Dutch shipwrecks Zuytdorp, Zeewijk and Vergulde Draeck. Enjoy some free time here before returning to your ship.

Swan Valley Food & Wine Trail

Enjoy a full day in the Swan Valley, departing the pier head into Guildford, where you'll discover an impressive array of beautifully restored heritage buildings and historic attractions, offering an engaging insight into the early settlement and colonial history of Western Australia and the Swan Valley. This region was built on a unique history and heritage blending Indigenous, pioneering colonial and southern European roots. Enjoy some free time in Guildford before continuing into the heart of the Swan Valley region.

The Swan Valley is Western Australia's oldest wine region, built on a unique history and heritage blending Indigenous, pioneering colonial and southern European roots. You will be seduced with a rich fusion of wines, beers, food, scenery and nature. Notable wine varieties range from specialty whites such as Verdelho, full-bodied reds and some of the world's finest fortified. Today is just as much about award-winning beers as it is about premium wines.

Three of this region's best-known wineries and breweries will be featured with tastings. These venues may include such names as Sittella, Lancaster, Houghton, Sandalford, Elmar's Brewery or Ironbark Brewery. Enjoy a casual luncheon at a Swan Valley restaurant. On the trail, a stop will also be made at Cape Lavender Gift Shop and Margaret River Chocolate Factory.

The Twin Cities with Airport Drop Off

Departing the pier we begin our touring through the port city of Fremantle. The city's streets are lined with quaint terraced houses, historic buildings, and sidewalk cafes. Pass the Round House at Arthur's Head, an old twelve sided jail, the Maritime Museum and Fremantle Arts Centre, previously the asylum.

Continue onto the city of Perth, with dazzling views from every angle. You will enjoy a brief stop at Kings Park overlooking the Swan River and the City of Perth. Soaring skyscrapers form an impressive wall along the Swan River's northern shore, while nearby yachts with multi coloured sails weave wind-blown rainbows across the water. In the distance, the Darling Ranges rise from the coastal plains offering a superb natural backdrop. The prosperity of Perth is evident as you pass the fabulous mansions on Millionaires' Row.

You will have some free time to explore Perth, and perhaps enjoy a coffee or light lunch (own expense) in one of the many cafes before we re-boarding your coach. Continue sightseeing en route to airport drop off.

Twin Cities and River Cruise

An excellent way to see the highlights of Fremantle and Perth and take a leisurely cruise down the Swan River for what some would say is the most glorious view of this metropolis. Depart the pier and head towards the stunning skyline of Perth, nestled right on the Swan River, a mix of ultra modern and old world architecture. Stop at Kings Park with its amazing views of the city and river before embarking on your riverboat (not exclusive) in Perth or Fremantle depending on schedules, for a leisurely cruise. Relax over a tea or coffee as you cruise the Swan River's pristine waters. There are stunning views and a lively commentary to be enjoyed while gliding along this meandering waterway. This is one of the most highly-rated experiences for the visitor to Fremantle.

On completion of your cruise you will be taken on a tour of the historical city of Fremantle. Your guide will point out historic and architectural highlights including the Round House, the Maritime Museum, High Street Mall, Fremantle Prison and the Fremantle Arts Centre (initially known as The Asylum) before returning to your ship. A comprehensive way to orient yourself to this Capital city and major port.

Walking Tour of Fremantle

This fabulous town had been spared much of the developer's wrath and so retains a charm and style in its restored buildings that is unique. Have your camera ready to take in the beautiful lines of the terraced shop fronts, restaurants, cafes and stunning sandstone architecture from Australia's early days. Depart the pier and head towards the Roundhouse, and old twelve sided jail. Your Guide will outline the history of this great building. Countinue on South Terrace to High Street Mall.

The tour will end downtown where guests may stay to enjoy free time or a coffee at one of the many cafe's or return to the ship (at their own expense).

The Twin Cities with Hotel Drop Off

Departing the pier we begin our touring through the port city of Fremantle. The city's streets are lined with quaint terraced houses, historic buildings, and sidewalk cafes. Pass the Round House at Arthur's Head, an old twelve sided jail, and the Maritime Museum.

Continue to Perth, via the coast road passing stunning white sand beaches. Perth is a city with dazzling views from every angle. You will enjoy a brief stop at Kings Park overlooking the Swan River and the City of Perth. Soaring skyscrapers form an impressive wall along the Swan River's northern shore, while nearby yachts with multi coloured sails weave wind-blown rainbows across the water. In the distance, the Darling Ranges rise from the coastal plains offering a superb natural backdrop. The prosperity of Perth is evident as you pass the fabulous mansions on Millionaires' Row.

You will have some free time to explore Perth, and perhaps enjoy a coffee or light lunch (own expense) in one of the many cafes before we re-board our coach. Continue sightseeing en route to your Perth hotel drop off.

Please note for the city drop off, the coach will make only one drop which will be at the selected post hotel-Sheraton Perth.