Itinerary

Sunset to Skyscrapers Vacation

Day 1: Arrive Bali (17 December 2015)

Arrive at Sydney International Airport Terminal 1 for check in for your flight to Bali. Enjoy the courtesy of fast track through security and customs. Then feel free to enjoy the shopping of the terminal before settling into the Koru Lounge. 

After meeting with your English-speaking guide, you will be transferred to your hotel in Nusa Dua area in an air- conditioned vehicle. Retire to your luxury room for an evening at leisure. (D)

Sofitel Nusa Dua Bali Beach Resort

2:00pm – Depart home for Sydney Airport

3:00pm – Check-in for flight

3:30pm to 6:00pm – Koru Lounge  

6:40pm to 10:15pm – Virgin Australia Flight VA69 Sydney to Bali

10:30pm – Private Transfer to Hotel

Day 2: Day at Leisure in Bali (18 December 2015)

Day at leisure to relax and enjoy the resort and the surroundings.

Sofitel Nusa Dua Bali Beach Resort

Day 3: Day in Bali (19 December 2015)

Commence the tour after lunch. Tour the southernmost part of Bali to the famous Pura Luhur “Uluwatu Temple”, undoubtedly the region’s most illustrious temple. Perched 250 feet above the water on a sheer cliff, it’s a perfect vantage point to the beach below, - one of the best for surfing on the island. Watch the huge wave’s rolls in from the Indian Ocean and crash against the cliffs – and keep an eye out for monkeys, as they love Uluwatu as much as we do!

One of the highlights of this trip is the Kecak dance, which is regularly performed in this unique setting. The Kecak dance features up to a hundred men swaying and chanting to the hypnotic music. This famous Balinese dance depicts and ancient story from the Ramayana when King Rahwana captures Sita, Rama’s wife. The dance shows the battle between Rahwana and Hanoman, leader of the apes.

After the show take a dining experience at Jimbaran Bay with seafood cuisine before proceeding back to the resort for your next night. (D)

Sofitel Nusa Dua Bali Beach Resort

3:00pm – Depart on tour

4:00pm – Uluwatu Temple

6:00pm – Kecak Performance

8:00pm – Jimbaran Bay Dinner (Seafood)

Day 4: Transfer to Ubud (20 December 2015)

The day will start with a fascinating performance of Barong Dance. In Balinese mythology Barong is a lion-like creature and King of the Spirits and this colourful dance depicts the eternal struggle between good and evil as he battles (and eventually defeats) his arch enemy, the demon queen Rangda.

Visit Gunung Kawi, a fascinating Hindu temple complex northeast of Ubud, which comprises of ten rock-cut shrines (candi) carved into the cliff face. The surrounding countryside is extremely lush and the footpath leading down to the temple passes through some beautifully terraced rice fields.

Then proceed to the village of Kintamani, the best spot, and weather permitting, for views of Mount Batur, an active volcano, which sits alongside Lake Batur. Scanning the horizon from left to right, you will observe that Kintamani sits on the caldera rim of a huge volcano, and Mount Batur, directly in front of you, is merely a ‘small’ mountain that has been created by thousands of years of volcanic activity. Enjoy a buffet lunch served in a local restaurant overlooking the volcano while you ponder on the mighty forces of Mother Nature that created this vista.

Next continue for Coffee Tasting. Visitors get a chance to savour different types of coffee; cocoa and tea at the tasting hut are free except for kopi luwak. The experts from the plantation are there to answer questions from curious visitors. They also make small batches of different drinks on the spot.

On the return journey, stop at Goa Gajah in Bedulu near Ubud. Often referred to as the Elephant Cave, it was established in the 9th century as a sanctuary for Buddhist monks. The facade of the cave is noted for its interesting carvings and ornate relief.

The last stop today is Ubud Monkey Forest, a lush nature reserve and temple complex on the outskirts of Ubud. The forest is home to more than one hundred species of trees, a number of interesting temples and hundreds of crab-eating macaque monkeys (*). Spend a while observing their characteristics and mannerisms before heading to your next accommodation in Ubud.

(*) The macaque monkeys here can be a considerable annoyance. Please heed the advice from your guide on the precautions you should take when visiting temples or forests inhabited by monkeys. (L)

The Kayon, Truly Ubud Resort

8:30am – Depart on tour

9:30am to 10:30am - Barong Dance

11:30am – Hindu Temple of Gunung Kawi

1:00pm – Kintamani/Lake Batur for volcano and buffet lunch

2:30pm – Coffee Tasting

4:00pm – Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave)

5:00pm – Monkey Forest Nature Reserve

6:00pm – Check-in to The Kayon, Truly Ubud Resort

Day 5: Day in Ubud (21 December 2015)

Your excursion begins with a drive into Central Bali and small town of Mengwi. Long associated with the Balinese Royal Family, Mengwi is home to the superb temple complex at Taman Ayun. Translating as ‘beautiful garden’ Taman Ayun is considered by many to be one of island’s most attractive temples and is still used today by people from all over Bali for special ceremonies and events.

Next head we continue stopping to view the rice terraces at Rice Terraces at Jatiluwih. Recognised by UNESCO, these seemingly endless rice paddies offer superb vistas in all directions and are a marvel to behold. There will be an option to walk along some of the terraces

Then visit Batukaru Temple is a unique sacred mountain sanctuary and royal temple of Tabanan dynasty, built to venerate deities of mountains and lake. It is a beautiful Hindu temple set in tranquility of Wangaya Gede Village, north part of Tabanan Regency surrounded by the cool temperature. It is set reside of the rainforest right on the foot of Batukaru Mount surrounded by pure nature with tropical trees and the dense of bush. It is a holy place appointed a secret temple that many visited by the Hinduism in particular on temple festival.

Before returning to your vehicle and heading back to your hotel, the last stop visits Tanah Lot. With its spectacular location, Tanah Lot is an integral part of Balinese mythology and one of seven sea temples that are said to form a ‘chain’ around the island. The temple is only accessible at low tide but despite its offshore location in the Indian Ocean, it features a fresh water spring at its base, which is said to contain holy water. As a result the temple is extremely sacred and Balinese visit from all over the island to drink the water and splash it over their bodies in order to cleanse themselves of any bad spirits. The temple’s inner sanctum is located on top of the rocky outcrop and only accessible to Balinese Hindus. You will arrive in time for sunset when photographic opportunities abound (B, L)

The Kayon, Truly Ubud Resort

8:30am – Depart on tour

10:00am – Batukaru Temple

11:30am – Rice Terraces at Jatiluwih

3:00pm – Mengwi: Royal Family Garden and Temple

5:00pm- Tanah Lot Sunset

Day 6:  Morning and Transfer to Port of Benoa (22 December 2015)

After breakfast at hotel, Sightseeing transfer. On the first visit tour with a stroll through central Ubud. Pass through the local market, which is always bustling with activity. This colourful marketplace has a wide range of items on display including clothing, textiles, leather goods and locally designed jewelry. Have fun wandering around and making the odd purchase but keep in mind prices are negotiable so remember to bargain for a fair one, and enter Ubud Palace.

Next, visit the village of Mas, which is renowned for its intricate wood carvings before continuing to Celuk, a centre for Balinese silver and gold-smiths where both traditional and modern methods of crafting ornaments and jewelry can be observed
Tohpati, where the batik fabrics for which Bali is famous are painstakingly created by hand using traditional techniques.

Then transfer to Benoa Harbor for embark the cruise ship for your onward to your next destination. (B, D)

Azamara Quest

8:30am – Depart on tour

9:00am – Market Tour

10:00am – Ubud Palace

11:30am – Balinese Arts and Crafts (Including woodcarvings, silver, goldsmiths, and fabrics)

2:00pm – Check-in for the Azamara Quest

Day 7: Port of Benoa Bali (23 December 2015)

Day at leisure to relax; enjoy the ship and surroundings. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 8: Lembar Harbour [Lombok] (24 December 2015)

Begin your tour with a visit to the village of Banyumulek. The Sasak people of Lombok have been skillfully crafting pottery for generations and here you can learn about traditional methods along with their unique style of decoration using rattan. Another feature of the village is the local method of transport known as cidomo: horse-drawn carts which you may see carrying either materials or completed products to and from the village.

Your next stop is Sukarare village, known for its textile weaving. Here you will have the opportunity to observe the techniques used to create the intricately patterned songket cloth.

Continue to the southern shores of Lombok where some of the island’s best beaches can be found including Selung Belanak, Kuta and Tanjung Aan. Lunch will be at a local restaurant.

Before returning to your ship, make a stop at another Sasak village, Sade. Believed to be the oldest village on Lombok, most residents still live in traditional houses constructed from grass thatch, mud and cow dung and visiting a home will provide the opportunity to meet members of the family. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

8:00am – Depart on tour

8:30am – Banyumulek Village (Pottery)

10:00am – Sukarare Village (Textile Weaving)

11:30am – Lunch

1:00pm – Sasak Village (Traditional Village)

Day 9: Komodo Island (25 December 2015)

Tendering from the ship, you will arrive at the komodo jetty, which is the headquarters of the komodo national park. The world-renowned wildlife island of komodo is the desolate domain of a fierce and very rare species of reptile that bears the looks of a prehistoric dinosaur and is appropriately called a Komodo Dragon.

Once ashore, you will be met by a local tour guide to begin the walking expedition of the island. Travelling in small groups with the guide and a park ranger, you will make their way along paths that lead through pockets of thorny vegetation and dry tropical grasslands to the viewing point, senses heightened with anticipation that the dragons will make an appearance. First stop will be Banunggulung Hill. Here you can see the former dragon feeding point. Proceed with the track into the Sulfuria Hill. From this high, the whole area of komodo national park and surrounding area. Afterward, the guide will take you to the spot where we can see the dragon. This first-hand look at komodo will also serve to acquaint guests with other notable species that inhabit the island, as well as the rich surrounding marine environment. Informative commentary will be happily provided by expert guides. the tracking will be finish at the several small art and craft shop where you can buy a souvenir to bring home.

From the finish point, you then walk to the new concrete pier where your wooden motorized boat await and ready to sail to the Pink beach. For most of the sand is white, mixed with stunning coral formations and clear water making this an ideal place to snorkel, relax, sunbathing, swim and enjoy the peaceful surroundings before you return to the ship. (B, D)

Azamara Quest

10:30am – Arrive at Pier

10:30am to 10:45am – Briefing by Ranger & Refreshment

10:45am to 11:45am – Hiking at Komodo National Park

11:45am to 12:00pm – Finish point to Pier

12:00pm to 12:30pm – Boat from Pier to Pink beach

12:30pm to 2:30pm – Relaxing and Snorkelling

2:30pm to 3:00pm – Boat from Pink Beach to concrete Pier

3:00pm to 3:30pm – Concrete pier to Jetty through Art market

3:30pm – Depart pier for the ship

Day 10: Day at Sea (26 December 2015)

Day at leisure to relax; enjoy the ship and the day’s activities. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 11: Day at Sea (27 December 2015)

Day at leisure to relax; enjoy the ship and the day’s activities. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 12: Darwin (28 December 2015)

Your stepping point into Australia “Top End” is Darwin, Australia's northernmost city. Leave the port walking along the esplanade to Advanced Car Rental Darwin. Your first stop is the Cullen Bay Marina, for Darwin’s marina. The next stop is the Botanical Gardens; explore the wide variety of species that flourish in the hot tropical climate. Followed by the Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory for a brief stop for natural history specimens and art. Then explore Darwin’s original penal institution Fannie Bay Gaol. 

Arrive at Duddley Point Lookout for a great view of Darwin. Then head to the Darwin Military Museum to begin your World War II immersion. Next door, you will discover the Defence of Darwin Experience, gaining insights into Darwin’s role in the war, especially after the Japanese bombing of February 19, 1942, often called the “Pearl Harbor of Australia.” Your Afternoon’s highlight is The Darwin Aviation Museum View the Aviation including the WWII spitfire and the huge B-52 bomber; one of only two found outside the U.S. Next Stop is the Charles Darwin National Park, for WWII bunkers and the scenic Lookout platform for views of the harbour and its wetland. Visit the Darwin SKYCITY Casino for an afternoon of fun. Then return the hire car. Experience a flashback in time at historic Lyon’s Cottage from the old Telegraph line it’s an example of the colonial architecture. Walk through the leafy streets of the cities Supreme Court, Government house, and Parliament house back to the ship for Dinner.

Meet the world’s largest captive reptile collection, including nearly 200 saltwater crocodiles with An Evening at Crocosaurus Cove on an unforgettable AzAmazing Evenings tour. The can’t-miss moment of the night is the Cage of Death. As a handful of the ship’s brave officers drop into a protected tank, giant crocodiles some of the largest in captivity approach for a little nose-to-nose time. View the fearsome muscularity of these razor-toothed beasts from above and below as they swim with terrifying confidence through a massive aquarium. The excitement continues with a ceremonial demonstration by representatives of the Larrakia people. The traditional owners of the town of Darwin, the Larrakia share their aboriginal connection with the nearby sea and rivers. As the ceremony winds down, take the chance to hold some of the smaller reptiles that make their home at this incredible adventure center. (B, D)

Azamara Quest

7:00am – Disembark Ship

8:00am – Advance Car Rentals

8:30am – Cullen Bay Marina

9:00am – George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens

10:00am – Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

11:00am – Fannie Bay Gaol

11:30am – Dudly Point Lookout

12:00pm – The Darwin Military Museum and Defence of Darwin Experience

1:00pm – Darwin Aviation Museum

2:00pm – Charles Darwin Lookout

2:30pm – Darwin SKYCITY Casino

3:30pm – Advance Car Rentals

4:00pm – Lyons Cottage

5:30pm – Dinner On-board

7:00pm – AzAmazing Evening at Crocosaurus Cove

Day 13: Day at Sea (29 December 2015)

Day at leisure to relax; enjoy the ship and the day’s activities. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 14: Day at Sea (30 December 2015)

Day at leisure to relax; enjoy the ship and the day’s activities. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 15: Thursday Island (31 December 2015)

Tender from the ship to the jetty of Thursday Island, also known as TI. Begin your exploration of the island visiting the Thursday Island's city centre. Visit Local Landmarks such as the Infantry Monument, Sacred Heart Church, Quetta Memorial Precinct, Gab Titui and the Customs House. Then walk to the historic Green Hill Fort for a view of the whole island. The Fort is one of the most intact nineteenth century forts remaining in Australia and was built in response to a Russian War scare. Adjacent to the fort visit the Military Museum from the 19^th century up to WWII.

The Green Hill Fort is also home to the Sea and Pearl Museum, dedicated to the pearl fishing industry and importance of the sea in the Torres Strait. Then onto the nearby cemetery (Summers st), which is home to a special Japanese cemetery home to hundreds of gravesites of Japanese pearl divers. Shopping opportunities on Thursday Island (Douglas st) include original islander art, music, jewellery, carvings, pearls, and seashell art. Boutique shopping experiences include Rosie Ware Textile for handmade souvenirs, Gab Titui, the Peddels Souvenir Shop, Jetty Shop, and Douglas Shop. (B, D)

Azamara Quest

9:00am – Tender from Ship

9:30am – Local Landmarks

11:30am – Green Hill Fort

1:00pm – Cemetery

2:00pm – Shopping

3:00pm – Tender back to Ship

Day 16: Day at Sea (1 January 2016)

Day at leisure to relax; enjoy the ship and the day’s activities. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 17: Cooktown (2 January 2016)

Depart the ship via tender for Cooktown, once home to the second-largest port in Queensland. See where Captain Cook had his famed HMS Endeavour disaster. From here, continue on to Grassy Hill for expansive views of its picturesque coastline, Great Barrier Reef and Lighthouse, built in 1886. Then continue on to the Botanical Gardens. Here, view extraordinary displays of local flora and fauna and visit Nature's Powerhouse, an Environment Interpretative Centre and accredited Visitor Information Centre. Afterward, walk to the James Cook Museum, the best regional museum outside of any capital city in Australia. Well worth a visit in the afternoon is the Cooktown History Centre and Elizabeth Guzsely Art Gallery. Enjoy some shopping for a range of souvenirs, which can be found at the Croc Shop and Gunjarde Artifact Shop and the, all located on the main street. (B, D)

Azamara Quest

8:30am – Tender from Ship

9:00am – Grassy Hill

11:00am – Botanical Gardens and Natures Powerhouse

1:00pm – James Cook Museum

2:00pm – Cooktown History Centre

2:30pm – Elizabeth Guzsely Art Gallery

3:00pm – Shopping

3:30pm – Tender back to Ship

Day 18: Port Douglas (3 January 2016)

Tender ashore to explore Tropical North Queensland. Spend the day with a local tour guide, touring the local area and visiting a number of significant sights and local attractions between Port Douglas and the World Heritage Daintree Rainforest, Cape Tribulation, Mossman Gorge and Alexandra Lookout. Learn about these amazing natural wonders as you traverse the region.

Enjoy a relaxing a la carte lunch at the beautiful Daintree Tea House licensed restaurant. Walk through the world’s oldest living rainforest; see natural wonders, waterfalls, the majestic Daintree River, where the rainforest meets the reef and coastal habitats learning about the environment and wildlife. In the afternoon enjoy a leisurely hour cruising along The Daintree River in the company of a local wildlife expert.

Azamara Quest

8:00am – Tender Ashore

8:30am to 4:30pm – Full Day Daintree Safari

Day 19: Cairns (4 January 2016)

Welcome to Cairns is graced with inspiring natural attractions in all directions. From the pier make your way by foot to Cairns Railway Station and settle into your train car. At over 120 years old, the train is a feat of engineering, trekking through 15 hand-carved tunnels, 40 bridges and past the spectacular Barron Falls, a steep, tiered cascade that tumbles from imposing tablelands at a high 1,076 feet. During your 75-minute ascent, an informative commentary will add to the delight of today’s adventure.

Arriving at the Kuranda Railway Station, walk straight to the Skyrail terminal and glide through the trees on the five-mile cable car ride, to relish 360-degree views for total immersion in the rainforest environment of Queensland. Once you arrive at the Smithfield Station meet your Djabugay Aboriginal Guide for your 1-hour tour back up to Barron Falls. At the completion of your tour enjoy a walk through the forest village with recreational and educational activities. Shop the Heritage Market for toys, jewelry, local crafts and more or visit the koala sanctuary to see one of Australia’s emblematic creatures.

Then check-in to your Gold Class carriage and take pleasure in the luxury and heritage of hand crafted Victorian inspired decor and club class lounge seating. Enjoy a drink and dine on locally produced delicacies brought to you by your dedicated attendant. Enjoy the perspective of your descent from Kuranda into Cairns Railway Station. Once back in Cairns enjoy dinner onboard the ship before your night in town. Head out to the Cairns Night Markets for some great souvenirs followed by the Reef Hotel Casino for evening fun.

Azamara Quest

7:30am – Depart Ship

8:30am – Depart Cairns Railway Station

10:25am – Arrive Kuranda Railway Station

10:45am – Skyrail to Barren Falls

11:15am to 12:00pm – Djabugay Aboriginal Guide

1:30pm – Skyrail to Kuranda

3:00pm – Check-in to Gold Class

3:30pm – Depart Kuranda Railway Station

5:25pm – Arrive Cairns Railway Station

6:00pm – Return to the Ship

7:30pm – Cairns Night Markets

8:30pm – Reef Hotel Casino

10:00pm – Return to the Ship

Day 20: Cairns (5 January 2016)

Depart the pier and visit Josephine Falls, one of a secluded freshwater swimming holes located at the foot of Queensland’s tallest mountain, Mt. Bartle Frere (1622m). Guests will have the chance to plunge into the exciting natural pool. Next experience one of Australia’s grandest man-made structures in a natural environment at the Mamu Canopy Rainforest Walkway. With its combination of a canopy walk high in the treetops, an observation tower and viewing decks. Take in the exhilarating vistas of the Johnstone River gorge and amazing surrounding World Heritage landscapes.

Following your Rainforest visit guests will have a great opportunity to Taste the awarding winning Hand Made Gallo Gourmet cheese & chocolate range at the Gallo Family Dairy Farm. Enjoy Lunch in the privately owned paradise of Tarzali Lakes Smokehouse Café. Giant lily filled billabongs is the home of many active platypuses. Get close up views of these Aussie icons playing in the water. Sitting on the bankside verandahs, enjoy the delicious lunch.

Before making your way down the mountain range visit the unique and stunning massively formed Strangler Fig. Over hundreds of years, it has effectively “strangled” 4 trees to create a high rise building sized eco system that is home to many animals and other plants. During the return drive stop at the Mountain View Historic Hotel. This is a traditional Australian Pub located at the base of the Great Dividing Range overlooking the little Mulgrave River is a perfect setting to enjoy a complementary Aussie Beer.

Azamara Quest

8:30am – Depart Ship

4:30pm – Return to the Ship

Day 21: Willis Island – Cruising (6 January 2016)

Day at leisure to relax; enjoy the ship and the day’s activities. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 22: Townsville (7 January 2016)

Arrive into the sunny North Queensland town of Townsville. Begin your trek in the town along the boardwalk-flanked waterfront Strand, for Australia's Cleanest Beach and picnic facilities. The first stop is the Queens Garden, which is Townsville's colonial-era botanic garden that occupies 10 verdant acres at the base of Castle Hill. Then get a taxi to the stunning view of Castle Hill Lookout, which provides great views of the city and Magnetic Island. Following this stop of by Sacred Heart Catholic Cathedral the Townsville Diocese. In the afternoon enjoy a stroll along Flinders Street from the Stanley Street to the Strand to takes you past some of Townsville's most impressive turn-of-the-20th-century colonial structures. (B, D)

9:30am – Depart Ship

10:00am – The Strand

11:00am – Queens Gardens

11:30am – Castle Hill Lookout

12:30pm – Sacred Heart Catholic Cathedral

1:30pm – Flinders Street

3:00pm – Return to the Ship

Accommodation: Azamara Quest

Day 23 AM: Hardy Reef – Great Barrier Reef (8 January 2016)

Morning of Scenic Cruising at the world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef. (B, L)

7:00am to 9:30am – Hardy Reef

                PM: Hamilton Island – Whitsundays

Enjoy your tender ashore where the natural beauty of Hamilton Island is sure to dazzle. Its beautiful weather, crystal waters, and fine wines are the perfect accompaniment to your Australian getaway. Begin your day by hiring a Golf Cart to make your stay here all the more enjoyable. Drive around the island, to sights including Catseye Beach, Qualia, and the All Saints Chapel. In the afternoon head on your Offroad Adventure Tour. Your tour guide will lead you up through the scenic fire trails, and to the Resort Lookout, where you can experience incredible 360-degree views of the Whitsundays. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure before returning the Cart and having your tender back to the ship. (D)

Azamara Quest

1:00pm – Depart Ship

1:30pm – Hire Golf Cart

1:45pm – Sights

2:30pm – Offroad Adventure Tour

3:30pm – Leisure

5:30pm – Return Golf Cart

Day 24: Day at Sea (9 January 2016)

Day at leisure to relax; enjoy the ship and the day’s activities. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 25: Moolooloba – Sunshine Coast (10 January 2016)

Step ashore in Moolooloba, with its perfect climate, beautiful golden beaches and crystal clear waters. The atmosphere is relaxing, the people are laidback and friendly and you’ll find some of the best dining, shopping and scenic tours around. Start your day with the 600 bus to the Caloundra Street Fair. Here you’ll get to visit the Bulcock Street Markets for handcrafted, locally made products, art, live entertainment, fresh produce and tasty food. After the bus back, overlooking the azure blue waters of Australia’s Sunshine Coast and the pristine Mooloolaba beach, the Esplanade is the perfect place to soak up some sun. Be sure to also come with an appetite, some of the best dining on the Sunshine Coast can be found here. Enjoy an afternoon in Mooloolaba with the option to head to Noosa Heads, before a tender back to the ship. (B, D)

Azamara Quest

8:00am – Depart Ship

8:30am – Bus to Caloundra (Route 600)

9:30am – Caloundra Street Fair

11:00am – Bus to Moolooloba (Route 600)

12:00pm –Esplanade free time

3:00pm – Return to the Ship

Day 25: Brisbane (11 January 2016)

Welcome to the city of Brisbane, Capital of Queensland and Australia’s third busiest city. Meet your Brisbane Greeter before boarding the public Ferry at Bretts Wharf for great city vistas. Disembark at the famous South Bank site of the 1988 World Fair in Brisbane. Then board your Mirimar Day Cruise to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world's first and largest Koala sanctuary, with over 130 Koalas. Get close to a Koala and over 130 free roaming Kangaroos and Wallabies, all in beautiful, natural settings. You may even wish to have a photo cuddling a Koala. During your stay you may wish to watch a sheep dog trial and maybe catch some of the other unusual animals such as the Platypus, Tasmanian Devil, Emu, Wombat, Dingo or Echidna. At the completion of your day at the sanctuary re-board your vessel for the Cruise back to Brisbane. Enjoy an Afternoon at Leisure in Brisbane before catching the 300 Bus back to the ship. (B, D) Azamara Quest

8:00am – Depart Ship

8:33am – Ferry from Bretts Wharf (8:03, 8:48, later then this take the bus)

8:52am to 9:45am – Free time in Southbank

10:00am to 11:15am – Cruise

11:30am to 12:00pm – Wildlife Encounter (Main Koala Exhibit)

12:00pm to 12:30pm – Koala Presentation (Main Koala Exhibit)

1:00pm to 1:30pm – Sheep Dog Show

1:45pm to 3:00pm – Cruise

3:00pm to 4:00pm – Afternoon at Leisure

4:00pm – Bus to Ship (Route 300)

6:00pm – Ship Sails

Day 26: Day at Sea (12 January 2016)

Day at leisure to relax; enjoy the ship and the day’s activities. (B, L, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 27: Newcastle (13 January 2016)

Resting on a peninsula, with its city center bordered by a working harbor and six major surfing and swimming beaches, Newcastle is one of Australia’s oldest cities, and possesses an intriguing history. After your shuttle bus into town follow the Ultimate Newcastle City Heritage Tourism Trail to make the most of your time in the charming seaside city. Begin your walk visiting King Edward Park for spectacular views, an Obelisk that was a navigational marker from 1850. Continue on to the local favorite swimming spot of Bogey Hole.

Next is the Newcastle Ocean Baths The Art Deco - stripped classical bathing pavilion from 1922 sets an appropriate stage for the pursuit of bathing and swimming. Stop at the Newcastle Museum to learn more about the penal colony history of the Hunter Region. Followed by the Newcastle Maritime Centre, which tells the stories of wrecks and rescues, of this port city. Then enjoy your afternoon at leisure and dinner on-board before your AzAmazing evening.

Have fun the Australian way during a private night of spectacle and entertainment at historic Fort Scratchley. Overlooking Nobbys Head, home to a beach and lighthouse, the fortress boasts panoramic ocean, coastline, harbor and Newcastle city views. Settled by convicts in the early 19th century, the Fort still has its historic cannons — cover those ears! — and an open parade grounds.

Walking up the Fort, two hot air balloons fire out a welcome with plumes of flame. Once on the grounds, local Newcastle musicians play the haunting melodies of the didgeridoo, a native Australian windpipe known for its hypnotic drone in indigenous ceremonies. James Morrison, one of the nation’s most iconic jazz instrumentalists, plays a variety of other wind instruments; too, while sultry singer Olivia Chindamo accompanies him on vocals. Sip wine and indulge in appetizers while the music floats over the Fort before a splendid fireworks display caps this enchanting evening. (B, D)

Azamara Quest

9:00am – Depart Ship

10:00am – King Edward Park

10:30am – Bogey Hole

11:00am – Newcastle Ocean Baths

11:30am – Newcastle Museum

12:00pm – BHP Steel Pouring Show

12:30pm – Newcastle Maritime Centre

6:00pm – AzAmazing Evening at Fort Scratchley

10:00pm – Ship Sails from Newcastle

Day 28: Sydney (14 January 2016)

Wake up early to enjoy sailing into the most beautiful harbour in the world! The state capital of New South Wales and the most populous city in the country, Sydney sits on the Tasman Sea, along the southeast coast of Australia. Feel free to enjoy a day and evening at leisure in Sydney. (B, D)

Azamara Quest

Day 29: Sydney (15 January 2016)

Farewell the Azamara Quest that has been your home for over 25 Days. Disembark through customs collecting your baggage for your onward journey home. (B)

Azamara Quest