20-Day World Cruise: Australia
Explorer

Perth, Western Australia

Most of the two and a half million people who live in Western
Australia reside in the sophisticated and scenic state capital.
Perth grew on the banks of the Swan River, named after the Scottish
city of the same name, and was proclaimed by Queen Victoria as a
city in 1856. The discovery of gold in Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie,
to the east of the city, in the 1890s led to a dramatic rise in its
population and an economic boom. Another boom followed in the 1960s
courtesy of iron ore and nickel.

Today the city is characterised by numerous waterways, green
parks and a compact central business district. There is plenty to
occupy visitors in Perth, including touring the city by tram or
bus, enjoying water sports on the Swan River, or just sipping a
glass of the famous local wine in a riverside or beachside
restaurant. Perth is said to have more restaurants per capita than
any other Australian city. Not far from the city is Western
Australia's oldest wine-growing region, Swan Valley, which welcomes
tourists to visit the many award-winning family-owned wineries,
which offer alfresco and restaurant meals and cellar tastings.

Perth is also the site of the world's oldest operating mint, and
boasts several museums and art galleries, historic buildings, a
casino and a good variety of shopping opportunities. Last, but not
least, the city offers more than 50 miles (80km) of white sandy
beaches. Among the most popular are Cottesloe and Scarborough.

Geraldton, Western Australia

Overview of Geraldton, Australia

Geraldton is a vibrant coastal city located in the Mid West region of Western Australia. With a population of around 39,000, it is the largest city in this area and serves as a major hub for commerce, agriculture, and tourism. Offering stunning beaches, a rich cultural heritage, and a diverse range of attractions and activities, Geraldton is a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

One of Geraldton's most appealing features is its pristine coastline, which stretches for miles and encompasses numerous beautiful beaches. The city boasts warm, Mediterranean-like weather for most of the year, making it an ideal place for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Some of the standout beaches include the stunning Back Beach, where surfers can catch some waves and families can enjoy picnics and barbecues. Other notable beaches include Sunset and Town Beach, both of which offer breathtaking views and calm waters for swimming.

Beyond its natural beauty, Geraldton is also rich in history and culture. The city played a major role in Western Australia's development during the mid-19th century, serving as a key port for the region's mining and agricultural industries. Visitors can explore this fascinating history at must-see attractions like the Western Australian Museum – Geraldton, where interactive exhibits showcase the maritime history of the area and the tragic tale of the Batavia shipwreck.

For a deeper dive into local culture, the Yamaji Art Centre is a great place to visit. It houses a collection of contemporary Aboriginal art, offering a platform for local Indigenous artists to display and sell their works. The Midwest Art Prize, held annually in Geraldton, celebrates the thriving arts community in the region and attracts artists from all over Australia.

Nature lovers and adventure seekers will also find plenty to do in and around Geraldton. Just offshore lies the stunning Houtman Abrolhos Islands, a chain of 122 islands renowned for their pristine coral reefs, diverse marine life, and historical shipwrecks. Visitors can take a day trip or charter a boat for a more immersive experience, snorkeling or scuba diving in these crystal-clear waters.

Another natural marvel near Geraldton is the impressive Pink Lake, located around 40 kilometers south-east of the city. The lake gets its vivid pink color from algae that flourish in the salty waters, creating a surreal and captivating sight. For those interested in eco-tourism, there are several nature reserves and national parks nearby, such as Kalbarri National Park and the Lesueur National Park, where visitors can witness the unique flora and fauna of Western Australia up close.

When it comes to dining and shopping, Geraldton offers a variety of options to suit all tastes and budgets. The city center boasts a range of cafes, restaurants, and bars, serving up delicious cuisine that showcases regional produce, including fresh seafood. The West End is a vibrant district with a mix of boutique shops, galleries, and lively entertainment options, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon browsing or enjoying a night out.

In terms of accommodation, Geraldton offers a wide range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. From luxury beachfront resorts to comfortable serviced apartments and budget-friendly motels, there is something to suit every traveler. The friendly local hospitality ensures that visitors to Geraldton feel welcomed and have a comfortable stay.

In conclusion, Geraldton is a must-visit destination for those seeking stunning coastal scenery, a rich cultural heritage, and a range of outdoor activities. This vibrant city offers a perfect mix of relaxation, exploration, and adventure, making it an ideal place to experience the beauty and diversity of Western Australia. Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or simply enjoying some sun and sand, Geraldton has something to offer everyone.

Exmouth, Western Australia

Exmouth is a stunning coastal town located in the Northwest Cape region of Western Australia. Situated on the eastern side of the North West Cape Peninsula, Exmouth is renowned for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and remarkable marine life. This makes it one of the top destinations for both relaxation and adventure, offering a range of activities for all types of travelers.

One of the main highlights of Exmouth is the nearby Ningaloo Marine Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The marine park is famous for its incredible coral reefs, which are just a short swim from the shore. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts flock to Exmouth to explore this underwater paradise, where they can encounter majestic manta rays, turtles, dolphins, and an abundance of colorful tropical fish. The pinnacle experience is swimming with the gentle whale sharks, the world's largest fish, which migrate through the area between March and August.

For those seeking a more laid-back beach experience, Exmouth boasts several stunning beaches, such as Turquoise Bay and Coral Bay. These pristine stretches of sand offer the perfect place to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the calm turquoise waters. With such clear visibility, snorkeling straight off the beach is a must, as the coral formations are just meters from the shore.

Exmouth is also a gateway to Cape Range National Park, a spectacular wilderness region filled with rugged gorges, towering limestone ranges, and breathtaking coastline. With many hiking trails and scenic lookouts, visitors can explore the diverse landscapes of the park, spotting wildlife along the way. Yardie Creek Gorge, located within the national park, is particularly popular for its stunning views, boat cruises, and the chance to spot rare black-footed rock wallabies.

When it comes to accommodation, Exmouth offers a range of options to suit all budgets and tastes. From luxury resorts and self-contained apartments to holiday parks and camping grounds, there is something for everyone. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (June to September), to secure your preferred accommodation.

In terms of dining, the town of Exmouth boasts a number of cafes, restaurants, and pubs where visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisines. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with local favorites such as barramundi and prawns featuring prominently on menus. Visitors can also enjoy a meal with a view, as many establishments offer seafront dining.

For those interested in exploring the town itself, Exmouth offers a range of shops, boutiques, and galleries, where visitors can purchase unique gifts and souvenirs. The area is also home to an interesting historical museum, showcasing the region's rich heritage and connection with the defense industry.

In conclusion, Exmouth is a true gem on Australia's west coast, offering stunning natural beauty, world-class marine encounters, and a range of outdoor activities. Whether you are a nature lover, beach enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Exmouth provides a memorable and unforgettable experience. So, pack your snorkel and board shorts, and get ready to dive into this aquatic paradise.

Broome, Western Australia

Situated in Western Australia, Broome is a vibrant and charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and unique cultural heritage. With its laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty, it is no wonder that Broome has become a popular tourist destination.

One of the highlights of Broome is Cable Beach, a 22-kilometer stretch of pristine white sand that is renowned for its picturesque sunsets. Here, visitors can take leisurely strolls along the shore, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or even embark on a scenic camel ride at sunset. The beach is also a hotspot for various water activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing.

For those interested in history and culture, Broome has a fascinating past as a pearling town. The town's pearling industry dates back to the late 19th century when Japanese, Chinese, and Malay divers came here in search of the valuable mother-of-pearl. Visitors can explore the town's pearling heritage at the Pearl Luggers Museum and watch demonstrations of traditional pearl diving techniques. The stunning pearl showrooms are also great places to browse for unique souvenirs.

Another must-visit attraction in Broome is Gantheaume Point, which offers breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and the striking red cliffs. This area is also home to an ancient dinosaur trackway, where visitors can marvel at the preserved footprints of dinosaurs from millions of years ago. A visit to Gantheaume Point is best timed during low tide to fully appreciate the tracks.

For nature lovers, a trip to the nearby Horizontal Falls is a must. Located in the Kimberley region, Horizontal Falls is a natural phenomenon where the water rushes powerfully through narrow gorges, creating a horizontal waterfall effect. Visitors can take a thrilling boat tour through the falls to experience this incredible natural wonder up close.

In addition to its natural beauty, Broome is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The town hosts the famous Shinju Matsuri festival every year, celebrating its multicultural heritage with a variety of events including music, dance, food, and cultural performances. The festival also showcases the talents of local artists and provides an opportunity to purchase unique handmade crafts.

When it comes to dining, Broome offers a wide range of culinary delights. From fresh seafood straight from the Indian Ocean to mouthwatering Asian fusion dishes, the town's restaurants cater to every taste. Don't miss the chance to try the local specialty, the famous Broome mangoes, which are known for their juicy and sweet flavor.

In terms of accommodation, Broome offers a range of options to suit all budgets. From luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly backpacker hostels, there is something for everyone. Many of the accommodations also offer easy access to the town's main attractions and amenities.

Getting to Broome is relatively easy, with regular flights from major Australian cities like Perth and Darwin. Once in Broome, getting around can be done by public transport or hiring a car to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

In conclusion, Broome is a hidden gem in Western Australia that offers a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you are looking for relaxation on the beach, a cultural experience, or an adventure in the Kimberley region, Broome has something to offer every traveler.

Kimberley Coast, Western Australia

While modern-day Australia might have started life as a British prison colony, it has evolved into one of the world's premier tourist destinations. Visitors to Australia will delight in its exciting, cosmopolitan cities, fantastic weather and famously beautiful coastline, as well as the friendly nature of the locals who they encounter.

Australia - a country and continent in one - is the world's sixth-largest nation by land area, and has a wealth of natural attractions begging to be explored. The country is politically divided into six states and two territories, each one offering a different experience for the traveller. There is the drama of the remote 'Outback', the colourful spectacle of the Great Barrier Reef and its coral islands, the excitement of the big, efficient cities, the sun and surf at some of the best beaches in the world, and the tropical rainforests of Western Australia. The list is endless in this diverse land of adventure, which boasts about 2,000 national parks and 14 World Heritage-listed areas, along with more than 7,000 beaches.

For those who prefer to keep their holidays urban, Australia's cities will certainly not disappoint. Clean, cosmopolitan and youthful, Australia's urban centres (including Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne) are world class. Famous cultural attractions in Australia include the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the Australian Museum and the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Australia also boasts an impressive and fast-moving restaurant culture, guaranteed to satisfy even the fussiest gastronomes.

Australia is a land of character too, with its melting pot of cultures. For more than 50,000 years the Aboriginal people lived and thrived in the continent's unique environment. It is believed the Aboriginals are one of the world's oldest surviving civilisations, and recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in keeping the Aboriginal culture alive and flourishing in Australia.

Whether you schedule a lot of sightseeing in Australia, or plan to spend most of your time relaxing on the great beaches and sampling some of the local beer, you are bound to have a splendid time in the Land Down Under.

Darwin, Northern Territory

The city of Darwin, capital of the Northern Territory, presides
loftily over the top end of Australia. Set on a rocky peninsula
that stretches into one of the most beautiful natural harbours on
the north Australian coast, the city is surrounded by water on
three sides, which allows it to be fanned by cool breezes that
temper the tropical heat and humidity of its climate.

Darwin has survived destruction three times: the city was hit by
a cyclone in 1893; it was then bombed by the Japanese in 1942
during World War II; and more recently, in 1974, Cyclone Tracy
levelled the city on Christmas Eve. It is a tribute to the
pioneering spirit of its cosmopolitan population of 87,000 that it
has not only overcome these calamities, but gone on to thrive.

The city is compact, and the areas of most interest to tourists
are easy to explore on foot. The tropical climate encourages
outdoor living and simply strolling through the leafy streets,
browsing art galleries and enjoying refreshments at sidewalk cafes,
is a pleasure for visitors. Shady parks can be found behind busy
shopping streets and are a delight with exotic flowering trees like
frangipani, banyan and tamarind.

Darwin is a youthful, tropical city, small enough to feel
friendly and relaxed, and a great travel hub for exploring the
incredible natural wonders on the city's doorstep.

Alotau

Alotau is a picturesque port town located in Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea (PG). Surrounded by stunning landscapes and boasting a rich cultural heritage, this charming destination offers visitors a unique and authentic experience.

One of the main attractions of Alotau is its breathtaking natural beauty. The town is nestled between lush green hills and the crystal-clear waters of Milne Bay, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. The bay is teeming with marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and even encounter majestic sea turtles and dolphins.

For nature enthusiasts, a visit to the rainforest-covered mountains that surround Alotau is a must. These mountains are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including exotic bird species, colorful orchids, and beautiful waterfalls. Guided hikes and nature walks are available, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the pristine environment and admire the breathtaking views.

Alotau is also known for its vibrant and diverse cultural heritage. The people of Milne Bay Province are famous for their unique customs, dance, and traditional celebrations. The annual Canoe and Kundu Drum Festival is a highlight for visitors, showcasing the region's rich cultural traditions through performances, art displays, and traditional ceremonies. Visitors have the opportunity to witness traditional dances and listen to the distinctive sounds of the Kundu drums, gaining insight into the local customs and heritage.

For history enthusiasts, Alotau offers a glimpse into Papua New Guinea's World War II past. The area was a significant battleground during the war, and remnants of this era can still be seen today. The Turnbull War Memorial is a popular site, honoring the Australian soldiers who fought and lost their lives during the Battle of Milne Bay. The memorial provides a quiet space for reflection and serves as a reminder of the region's historical significance.

Alotau is also a gateway to exploring the diverse islands of Milne Bay. Visitors can take a boat tour to discover the many idyllic islands scattered throughout the bay. These islands offer pristine, untouched beaches, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing. Adventurous travelers can also witness traditional village life, with some communities offering homestays for a unique cultural experience.

When it comes to dining, Alotau offers a variety of options to satisfy every palate. Local seafood, including fresh fish and prawns, is a must-try delicacy. Visitors can enjoy these dishes at waterfront restaurants, overlooking the bay while enjoying the warm hospitality of the locals.

The best time to visit Alotau is during the dry season from May to October when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal. However, it's important to note that Papua New Guinea has a tropical climate, with temperatures usually ranging from 25 to 32 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

Alotau can be reached by air or by sea. Gurney Airport is the closest international airport, with regular flights from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea. Alternatively, visitors can embark on a scenic cruise from neighboring ports or take a domestic flight from other major cities in the country.

In conclusion, Alotau is a hidden gem in Papua New Guinea that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality, this town promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.

Conflict Island Group

The remote country of Papua New Guinea, popularly known as PNG, will provide the quintessential paradise island holiday. The country stretches across half of the mountainous island of New Guinea, which it shares with Indonesia, incorporating jungle lowlands and dozens of smaller islands. Papua New Guinea is a challenging travel destination due to its lack of transport infrastructure. However, the difficulty of exploring the territory has meant that the country has remained one of the most mysterious and culturally authentic in the world, making it irresistible to adventurous travellers.

Hundreds of different cultures are evident in this small amount of land. Due to the drastic isolation some mountain communities have only recently discovered neighbouring tribes, despite living in close proximity for thousands of years. Even Port Moresby, PNG's capital and largest city, has no major roads connecting it to other towns. Inaccessibility has allowed tribal culture to thrive undisturbed by the modern world. Papua New Guinea is home to more than 800 languages and a multitude of diverse customs and cultures. The best region to experience tribal culture in Papua New Guinea is in the Highlands, but these mountainous areas can only be explored on foot, remaining inaccessible to all but the most intrepid of visitors.

With almost no connecting paved roads, air travel is mandatory for getting around the country, even though there are also only a handful of paved runways. Planes flying over the jungle were once worshiped by 'cargo cults' in Papua New Guinea, especially during World War II, when locals would watch mesmerised at new airport runways as 'spirits' descended from the heavens. The safety record of airlines in PNG is patchy and travellers wanting to avoid prematurely turning into spirits themselves should review recent airline safety information.

It makes sense that the main attraction of the country for tourists is a hiking trail, the famous Kokoda Track, a 60-mile (96km) trek especially popular with Australian tourists. The region it covers saw intense fighting between Japanese and Australian forces during World War II, giving the trail historic relevance. It also traverses through beautiful, pristine jungle and allows travellers to experience some of the country's famous biodiversity.

For those up for the challenge, July through August is the best time to visit Papua New Guinea for hiking. Surfers wanting to experience the uncrowded breaks of Papua New Guinea should visit the northern beaches between November and April, and the southern beaches between June and September.

Cairns, Queensland

The cosmopolitan, colourful city of Cairns, in far north
Queensland, is a tourist hub and the gateway to two of the world's
most awesome World Heritage Sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the
110-million-year-old Daintree Rainforest.

Cairns started life as a small fishing encampment, which
received an injection of prosperity in the 19th century when gold
was discovered to the north and tin and timber began to be
exploited in the nearby Atherton Tablelands. The harbour and
fishing operations increased in importance, and tourism arrived in
the early 20th century when marlin fishing became popular, and the
world discovered the delights of exploring the Great Barrier
Reef.

Aided by its pleasant, warm climate, the relaxed tropical town
has now become a frenzied international tourism centre, flooded
with visitors most of the year, its streets lined with souvenir
stores, eateries and some first class hotels. The harbour is
clogged with streamlined pleasure boats, and the offshore islands
bristle with resorts. To cater for tourists the city fathers have
even created a man-made salt-water lagoon and sandy beach on the
Esplanade to replace the original muddy swamp that crowned Trinity
Bay.

To holiday in Cairns is to holiday in a city that has a mission
to make tourists as happy as possible. Facilities and fun
recreation opportunities are excellent, and the city is a
relatively inexpensive destination. Anyone who enjoys a sunny beach
holiday should travel to Cairns, where the magnificent man-made
lagoon offers safe swimming all year round, the sunshine guarantees
a suntan, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and nightclubs
to indulge in. A Cairns holiday is also popular among young
adventure tourists, with pursuits like scuba diving, skydiving, and
ballooning on offer. And, of course, the Great Barrier Reef is just
a hop and a skip away.

Townsville, Queensland

With a magnetic charm and dozens of fabulous attractions and
golden sandy beaches, this laid-back little town oozes with
character and takes pride in being the unofficial capital of
Queensland. Townsville is located on the shores of Cleveland Bay
and with views of the picturesque and idyllic Magnetic Island in
the distance it's not hard to see why people are so strongly drawn
here.

Townsville played an active role in World War II, when American
and Australian troops were stationed here during the Pacific
campaign. Japanese bombs were even dropped in the harbour in 1942,
but thankfully there was very little damage to the coastal city.
Today an army of local and international tourists visit, drawn to
the year-round good weather and varied attractions to suit any
inclination.

Take a trip to the magnificent Magnetic Island to explore the
National Park, or take the plunge and do some reef diving to
discover the famous Yongala Wreck or Great Barrier Reef to the
east. Back on land go on a 4x4 trip into the Outback to the west,
marvel at the magnificently verdant tropical rainforests dotted
with waterfalls to the north, or visit the mango and sugar cane
farms to the south.

With numerous restaurants and bars, wonderful shopping
opportunities and a quiet cosmopolitan feel, Townsville has
something for everyone, though it should be noted that saltwater
crocodiles are present in all swimming locations here, including
the beach, so caution should be exercised in the water.

Airlie Beach

While modern-day Australia might have started life as a British prison colony, it has evolved into one of the world's premier tourist destinations. Visitors to Australia will delight in its exciting, cosmopolitan cities, fantastic weather and famously beautiful coastline, as well as the friendly nature of the locals who they encounter.

Australia - a country and continent in one - is the world's sixth-largest nation by land area, and has a wealth of natural attractions begging to be explored. The country is politically divided into six states and two territories, each one offering a different experience for the traveller. There is the drama of the remote 'Outback', the colourful spectacle of the Great Barrier Reef and its coral islands, the excitement of the big, efficient cities, the sun and surf at some of the best beaches in the world, and the tropical rainforests of Western Australia. The list is endless in this diverse land of adventure, which boasts about 2,000 national parks and 14 World Heritage-listed areas, along with more than 7,000 beaches.

For those who prefer to keep their holidays urban, Australia's cities will certainly not disappoint. Clean, cosmopolitan and youthful, Australia's urban centres (including Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne) are world class. Famous cultural attractions in Australia include the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the Australian Museum and the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Australia also boasts an impressive and fast-moving restaurant culture, guaranteed to satisfy even the fussiest gastronomes.

Australia is a land of character too, with its melting pot of cultures. For more than 50,000 years the Aboriginal people lived and thrived in the continent's unique environment. It is believed the Aboriginals are one of the world's oldest surviving civilisations, and recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in keeping the Aboriginal culture alive and flourishing in Australia.

Whether you schedule a lot of sightseeing in Australia, or plan to spend most of your time relaxing on the great beaches and sampling some of the local beer, you are bound to have a splendid time in the Land Down Under.

Brisbane, Queensland

Australia's third largest city has a relaxed, easy-going
ambience that is well suited to its moniker: 'The City of Sundays'.
As the capital of the state of Queensland, however, it has a
serious side too, and despite it's laid-back aura it is filled with
the cosmopolitan hustle and bustle of a major urban hub. Brisbane
has several interesting districts, a good selection of street
cafes, a wonderful riverside park, a very full cultural calendar,
and a vibrant nightlife. Culture vultures should head for the South
Bank, home to the Queensland Museum with its interactive displays;
the Queensland Art Gallery with its magnificent collection; and the
Performing Arts Centre, where international theatre companies and
performing artists take to the stage.

There is plenty to keep shopaholics busy too, with the designer
boutiques and department stores of Queens Street Mall ready to
welcome visitors and numerous bustling markets dotted around the
city. Sport fanatics, as always the case in Australia, are well
catered for thanks to the Gabba sports ground and Suncorp Stadium,
where the Wallabies often take on the world at rugby. The city is
generally easy to explore on foot, and provides the perfect base
from which to make daytrips to popular surrounding areas.

Situated on Australia's fabled Gold Coast, a holiday in Brisbane
means fun in the sun, providing easy access to Australia's east
coast resorts and theme parks on the Pacific Motorway. A
sub-tropical climate ensures that a holiday in Brisbane will be a
sunny experience no matter what time of year is chosen. Most of the
rain falls in summer, but not enough to deter holidaymakers. Most
of those who travel to Brisbane come for leisure and pleasure. It
is an ideal destination for a family holiday, a surfing holiday, or
as a good base for anyone wanting to visit the nearby National
Parks.