9 Night South Pacific Cruise on Ovation of the Seas from Sydney, Australia Noumea, New Caledonia Saint Josef Cathedral
The 9 Night South Pacific Cruise from Sydney, Australia visits Noumea, New Caledonia; Port Vila, Vanuatu; Mystery Island, Vanuatu; Sydney, Australia. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Priced from: $1018.0 per person 1 sailing dates available
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9 Night South Pacific Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Ovation of the Seas
Day 1 - Sydney, Australia
Day 2 - 3 - Cruising
Day 4 - 5 - Noumea, New Caledonia
Day 6 - Port Vila, Vanuatu
Day 7 - Mystery Island, Vanuatu
Day 8 - 9 - Cruising
Day 10 - Sydney, Australia
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Noumea, New Caledonia Saint Josef Cathedral
Saint Josef Cathedral and Moselle Bay in Noumea, New Caledonia
This is your

9 Night South Pacific Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Sydney, Australia
Onboard
Ovation of the Seas
Day Port
1
Sydney, Australia
Departs at 6:45 PM
2 - 3
Cruising
Day at sea
4 - 5
Noumea, New Caledonia
From Day 4, 8:00 AM - Day 5, 2:00 PM
6
Port Vila, Vanuatu
Tendered from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
7
Mystery Island, Vanuatu
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM
8 - 9
Cruising
Day at sea
10
Sydney, Australia
Arrives at 6:30 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Your ship Ovation of the Seas

Your ship
Ovation of the Seas
View Itinerary
Ovation of the Seas, Aerial View, Australia, Vietnam, and the Philippines
Aerial View of Ovation of the Seas Cruise Ship Visiting Australia, Vietnam, and the Philippines
Get to know
Ovation of the Seas
Welcome to one of the world's most innovative ships, filled with game changers, edge-of-your-seat entertainment, and dining that defies the imagination. Score 300-foot high views from the North Star®, order up a cocktail in binary at the Bionic Bar®, and enjoy a full-sensory aerial adventure in Live. Love. Legs.

SPACE AGE SURPRISES

Get ready to discover a world of new experiences as you sail between exotic shores. Like hanging ten on the FlowRider® surf simulator, scoring 300-foot-high views from the North Star®, feeling the thrill of free-fall on RipCord® by iFLY®, and sipping handcrafted cocktails paired with surreal views in Two70®.
Odyssey of the Seas North Star
Odyssey of the Seas North Star

North Star®

It’s time to raise the bar on adventure — with 360-degree views of the world from 300 feet above sea level in the North Star® observation capsule — winner of the Guinness World Record for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
Girl Going Down the Slide at Splashaway Bay
Girl Going Down the Slide at Splashaway Bay

Splashaway Bay℠

The fun comes in gallons. This bigger, better kids aqua park features slides, water cannons, waterfalls and more. And when the drench bucket gets full, everyone gets wet.
Ripcord by iFly by Night
Guest Enjoying the iFly at Night

RipCord® by iFLY®

There’s no rush in the world like skydiving — and on the RipCord® by iFLY® simulator you can feel the freedom of freefall without even leaving the deck.
Odyssey of the Seas Friends Enjoying the Bumper Cars
Odyssey of the Seas Friends Enjoying the Bumper Cars

Bumper Cars

Buckle up and take the wheel for nonstop fun on the only bumper cars at sea. Rush hour gets a thrilling spin at the largest indoor activity space ever to set sail — SeaPlex®.

A FULL-ON FLAVOR FEST

You're in for a palate-pleasing adventure, from robot-crafted cocktails at Bionic Bar® and Mediterranean flavors at Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver, to an exclusive five-course epicurean experience at Chef's Table and Tuscan fare with Cali flair at Coastal Kitchen.
Jamie's Italian Lobster Al Forno
Delicious Lobster Al Forno

Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver

At Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver, sit down to Tuscan-inspired cuisine crafted by one of Britain’s most famous chefs. Seasonal ingredients meet authentic recipes in family-style dishes that range from homemade pastas and classic Italian entrees, to contemporary creations infused with rustic influences.
Parfait Dessert, Coastal Kitchen
Parfait Dessert, Coastal Kitchen

Coastal Kitchen

Exclusively for suite guests and Pinnacle Club members, Coastal Kitchen fuses Mediterranean influences with farm-fresh flavors from California. Filled with Pacific Coast favorites and Med-inspired entrees, the menu here rotates to spotlight delicious, seasonal ingredients. And you can pair every bite with a glass or bottle of wine off a list that includes vintages from the sun-kissed valleys of Napa to the golden-green hills of Tuscany.

Wonderland

Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine is all about pushing the culinary envelope. Dishes are designed to tantalize your taste buds and present a visual feast. Find crispy crab cones topped with fluffy avocado mousse, gazpacho served with pepper spheres and bread foam, and dreamy desserts that will take your breath away. Pair your meal with cocktails described as “magical” elixirs crafted to deliver full-sensory experiences.
Independence of the Seas Fish and Chips Bar
Independence of the Seas Fish and Chips Bar

Fish & Ships℠

Savor delicious fare at Fish & Ships℠, a seaside seafood spot that’s just steps from the pool. No need to hop across the pond for a basket of freshly battered cod and hand cut fries. You can get the British classic comfort food right here, plus crispy calamari, savory battered sausage, and even a frosty pint of brew.

AN ADVENTURE ONSTAGE

Score a front-row seat to jaw-dropping acrobatics and mesmerizing visual effects in Live. Love. Legs. Or watch what happens when music, cinematography and tech combine in Pixels.
Bottles in front of the Bionic Bar
Bottles at the Bionic Bar

Bionic Bar®

At Bionic Bar®, meet two robotic bartenders who know how to shake, stir, and mix up your night out. With moves as fluid as the Pimm’s in your cup, these mecha mixologists can create an almost endless combination of cocktails, from classic cosmos to custom-crafted sips designed by you.
Two 70 Lounge
AN, Anthem of the Seas, Two 70 Lounge, Deck 5 Aft, bar, entertainment, ocean view, daytime, empty room

Two70 Bar

Grab a hand-crafted cocktail at Two70 Bar and start gazing because you never know what you'll see. In the evening, live entertainment pairs with amazing multimedia visuals across a floor-to-ceiling wall of windows. When evening turns to night, Two70® transforms into a nightclub that keeps the party going strong. Raise a glass to that.
Live Love Legs Cruise Show Acrobatic Couple on Stage
Acrobatic couple performing on stage during the Live Love Legs Cruise Show by Royal Caribbean

Live. Love. Legs.

From lavish costumes and vocal performances to jaw-dropping aerial acrobatics, engage all your senses in Live. Love. Legs.

Day 1: Sydney, Australia

Day 1
Sydney
Australia
View Itinerary
Sydney, Australia, Circular quay and opera house
View of the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay with the Skyline in the distance in Australia
Things to do in
Sydney
Departs at 6:45 PM
You won't have any trouble filling up an itinerary in Sydney — there's a wealth of sights, sounds and activities here to delight adventurers of all stripes. Visit one or all of the city's three iconic landmarks: the Sydney Opera House, the massive arched Harbour Bridge and white-sanded, crescent-shaped Bondi Beach. Get your culture on at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, with works from ancient tribal Australia to medieval Europe to modern times. Cruise to Sydney and check out the North Head Cliffs at Manly Beach, which offer panoramic views of the bay and the skyline, or go snorkeling along the underwater nature trail at secluded Gordon's Bay to spot starfish and sea urchins.
Sydney, Australia, Harbour Bridge
Sydney Harbour Bridge. Australia.

Go in Circles

Circular Quay is the perfect place to start exploring Sydney. You can find the Opera House here, and Harbour Bridge is within walking distance. Stride into one of the many walking and pub tours that leave from here. Just 20 minutes away, you can stretch your legs on the iconic Harbour Bridge walk, the first of its kind in the world.
Insider tip
Central Sydney is extremely walkable, so take the time to explore the little streets close to Circular Quay.
Sydney, Australia, Manly beach
People enjoying Manly beach in Sydney, Australia

Get Manly

Bondi Beach gets all the attention, but Manly Beach in the Northern Beaches is a bit more local. The Corso is lined with shops and restaurants, including local favorite, Hugo's. If surfing is your thing, this is the place to be. The walk from Spit Bridge to Manly is a fantastic way to soak in the city's coastline.
Insider tip
Taronga Zoo is filled with indigenous animals (and yes, you can pet a koala). This zoo's biggest secret is that it has one of the best views of the city.
Sydney, Australia, The Gap at Watsons Bay
The Gap at Watsons Bay in Sydney, Australia

Walk Watsons

Hop on the ferry or one of the regular buses that go to Watsons Bay to enjoy the scenic hike around South Head. During your journey, you'll enjoy views of Sydney Harbour, North Head, the historic Hornby Lighthouse and, of course, the sapphire-blue Pacific Ocean. The Gap offers breathtaking views of the sea from the rocky cliffside.
Sydney, Australia, Bondi beach
Bondi beach in Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia, Fresh Rock oysters
A plate of fresh Sydney rock oysters

Local Cuisine

With all the water surrounding you, it's no surprise seafood takes center stage on many plates in the city. Head to Sydney Fish Market for giant Sydney Rock oysters or classic fish and ships. Stop into a local pie shop for a traditional Australian meat pie, or explore Sydney's international side with udon or ramen noodles at a Japanese noodle bar, or seek out shrimp dumplings in Chinatown.
Sydney, Australia, Darling harbour
Boats docked on the pier at Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia, Opal ring
An opal ring displayed on a stone

Shopping

There are plenty of shopping malls in the heart of the city, including Westfield Mall, Pitt Street Mall and the wonderful Queen Victoria Building, which is now a shopping mall featuring top designers. Seek out cutting boards made from local camphor laurel — they're not only beautiful but also have natural antimicrobial properties. During your Sydney cruise vacation, look for jewelry made from opal, the national gemstone of Australia.

Day 2 - 3: Cruising

Day 2 - 3
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
Ripcord iFly Couple Flying Mid Air
Ripcord iFly Couple Flying Mid Air
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
North Star During Sunset
North Star During Dusk

North Star®

It’s time to raise the bar on adventure — with 360-degree views of the world from 300 feet above sea level in the North Star® observation capsule — winner of the Guinness World Record for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
Girl Enjoying Splashaway Bay
Girl Getting Splashed on Harmony of the Seas
Instructor Jumping on Flowrider
Man Jumping Mid Air on Flowrider

FlowRider®

Grab your board and get ready for 30,000 gallons of rushing awesome headed your way. The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator.
Mom and Son on Bumper Cars
Mon and Son Driving and Enjoying the Bumper Cars
Navigator of the Seas Adventure Ocean
Girl Playing with Dolls at Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean®

“Are we there yet?” is a thing of the past. We keep every kid entertained with games, events, age-appropriate activities and more in our award-winning youth program.
Odyssey of the Seas Girl Racing on the Rock Climbing Wall
Odyssey of the Seas Girl Racing on the Rock Climbing Wall

Rock Climbing Wall

Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.

Day 4 - 5: Noumea, New Caledonia

Day 4 - 5
Noumea
New Caledonia
View Itinerary
Noumea, New Caledonia Street Beach Views
Views of Noumea's streets and city along the beaches with tikis over the water
Things to do in
Noumea
From Day 4, 8:00 AM - Day 5, 2:00 PM
A melting pot of ethnicity and culture, sunny Noumea will quickly win you over with its upbeat city vibe. The capital city of New Caledonia offers some of the best weather in the South Pacific. Noumea's cultural pride shines through in its museums, theaters and art galleries — check out the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre to explore the traditional Kanak culture. Head to the top of the Noumea Cathedral for views of the island, dotted with palms, hibiscuses and coconut trees. Hop a ferry out to Amedee Island to see its lighthouse and swim with sea turtles. Cruise to Noumea and relax on the picturesque beach at lemon tree-lined Baie des Citrons, or go snorkeling in Anse Vata Bay.
Noumea, New Caledonia Kiteboarding
Kiteboarding over the beach in Noumea, New Caledonia

Wet and Wild

Noumea has every water sport imaginable. Head on over to the Bay of Anse Vata to speed across the water with a kitesurfing lesson. From Anse Vata Beach, catch a water taxi to Duck Island ("Ile aux Canards") and snorkel in the majestic underwater world.
Insider tip
Taxis will only come to the port if ordered by phone, so plan in advance.
Noumea, New Caledonia Grey Kagu Birds
The face of a grey kagu bird from New Caledonia

Walk With Nature

Stretch your land legs and take a tour around the Michel Corbasson Zoological and Forest Park. Full of lush greenery and unique species of fauna native to New Caledonia, the park lets you catch glimpses of giant geckos, flying foxes and exotic birds, including New Caledonia's national bird, the kagu.
Insider tip
The easiest way to get around the city is on foot — take a tour or hop on a bus if you're planning to go further afield.
Noumea, New Caledonia Statue Musem
Old Caledonian statue on the cultural center of Tjibaou in Noumea

Kanak Culture Lesson

Although New Caledonians speak French, their native culture is called Kanak. The Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre is a spectacular feat of architecture that celebrates Kanak culture and educates visitors on its core beliefs. Check out traditional Kanak totems and artifacts, as well as recreated traditional huts.
Insider tip
Most shops close between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for a leisurely lunch.
Noumea, New Caledonia Escargots
Escargots de Bourgogne, snails with herbs butter in Noumea, New Caledonia

Local Cuisine

Discover the abundance of French-influenced food found on Noumea. Head to Baie de Citrons to find the best restaurants, bistros and bars. Cruise to Noumea and sample French classics like slow-cooked lamb shanks and escargots, or experience island-inspired twists on European favorite, like choucroute (a filling platter-style meal typical in Alsace) with sweet potato, cabbage, papaya and pumpkin. And look out for the bakeries — they stock bread worthy of a Parisian cafe.
Noumea, New Caledonia Sunset Landscape Hills
Sunset landscape on the hills around Noumea, New Caledonia
Noumea, New Caledonia French Wines
Hard to find French wines found in Noumea, New Caledonia

Shopping

There are two main shopping attractions in Noumea: grocery stores and open-air markets. Head to the Casino (a grocery store) and indulge in the array of French goodies — pick up some hard-to-find French wine to take home. At the market, you'll find local spices, including regionally produced vanilla, alongside Kanak artifacts. For souvenirs, browse the market for Melanesian masks or tribal turtle sculptures.

Day 6: Port Vila, Vanuatu

Day 6
Port Vila
Vanuatu
View Itinerary
Port Vila, Vanuatu Mele Cascades Waterfalls
Mele cascades waterfalls at Port Vila, Vanuatu
Things to do in
Port Vila
Tendered from 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
In Port Vila, Vanuatu's energetic capital, you'll be greeted by friendly Bislama-speaking locals and street-side markets. Walk around the center of town — you'll see a touch of French influence still remains in the form of bistros and murals. Cruise to Port Vila to explore the hidden waterfalls of the Mele Cascades, tucked away in the Mele village rainforest with plenty of gently sloping hiking trails. Check out Mama's Market, the cultural hub of Vanuatu, where you can sample local bananas or shop for traditional island handicrafts. Or take the 10-minute boat ride out to Pele Island: Here, you'll find picturesque beaches shaded by palm trees overlooking turquoise waters that are prime for snorkeling.
Port Vila, Vanuatu Wooden Tam Tams
Two wooden tam tamsin from tree trunks in Port Vila, Vanuatu

One for the History Books

The history of Port Vila alone is impressive — add that to the story of the entire South Pacific, and you've got the Vanuatu Cultural Center. It houses one of the most extensive collections of South Pacific artifacts on the planet. Outrigger canoes, photos, videos and traditional sand drawing exhibitions await.
Insider tip
Public buses are cheaper than taxis and don't follow a set route. Just tell them where you want to go.
Port Vila, Vanuatu Meele Cascades Waterfalls
Slippery path with guide ropes at Meele Cascades Waterfalls in Port Vila, Vanuatu

Natural Heat Remedy

It gets pretty hot and sticky on a tropical island. Do like the locals do and cool down at the Mele Cascades Waterfall. At 150 feet high, the spray alone is refreshing. A bus ride and a brief walk up the valley gets you to this spectacular feat of nature.
Insider tip
The local language is Bislama. It is loosely based on English and can be deciphered with a little effort.
Port Vila, Vanuatu Hideaway Island
The beautiful tropical Hideaway Island by Port Vila, Vanuatu

Find the Perfect Hideaway

A quick drive and a water taxi trip will bring you to the tiny Hideaway Island. Jump right in and snorkel in crystal clear waters teeming with rainbows of fish. Jump onboard a Port Vila, Vanuatu cruise to swim to the world's only underwater post office, and post a waterproof postcard to your friends back home.
Insider tip
Water taxis are a great way to get a unique view of the town without breaking the bank.
Port Vila, Vanuatu Traditional Fried Pancakes
Traditional Fried Pancakes in Port Vila, Vanuatu

Local Cuisine

For cheap eats, go to Mama's Market, where you can sample taro root pancakes, Vanuatu French fries — delicious flakes of coconut deep fried and salted to perfection —or traditional lap lap, grated yam and banana cooked with coconut cream in an earthen oven. Or dine al fresco along the waterfront: Modern eateries serve up French-inspired takes on local fish and grass-fed beef, which is some of the world's best.
Port Vila, Vanuatu Harbor Scene
Scene of Port Vila harbor, Vanuatu
Port Vila, Vanuatu Wooden Tam Tams Totem Process
Woodem Tam-Tams spiritual totems being created in Port Vila, Vanuatu

Shopping

Along Wharf Road in the center of town, you'll see the charming Vanuatu Handicraft Market. Here, local vendors sell authentic Vanuatu wooden carvings, as well as prints and other crafts. If you're looking for something a bit more tailored during your cruise, pop in at the nearby Pandanus shop, which supports local creators.

Day 7: Mystery Island, Vanuatu

Day 7
Mystery Island
Vanuatu
View Itinerary
Mystery Island, Vanuatu Beach Palm tree
The beach with palm trees in Mystery Island, Vanuatu
Things to do in
Mystery Island
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM
Uninhabited and untouched by modern society, Mystery Island will make you believe it wouldn't be so bad to be a marooned sailor in an old storybook. You'll find no electricity, roads or telephones here. A comfortable 30-minute walk will take you on a self-guided tour of the entire island. Only accessible by cruise ship and the nearby inhabitants of Aneityum, you'll truly get to experience life on a deserted island. Cruise to Mystery Island and explore the white-sand shoreline and its warm waters — go for a snorkel and see an incredible underwater world untouched by human influence.
Mystery Island, Vanuatu Underwater Sea Life
View of underwater sea life in Mystery Island, Vanuatu

Go on a Coral Safari

Because Mystery Island is so secluded, the coral is exceptionally healthy and the fish plentiful. Whether you are swimming or snorkeling, you'll pass clown fish, parrot fish, barracudas and majestic sea turtles. You might even be lucky enough to glimpse a seahorse.
Insider tip
There are no rentals on this island, so bring your own snorkeling gear. It's worth it.
Mystery Island, Vanuatu Aerial View Paddle Boarding
Woman on a stand up paddle boat over turquoise waters

What's SUP?

Hop on a quick boat ride to the nearby inhabited island of Aneityum for a little adventure. From there, you'll be given a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) and a quick beginner's lesson on how to use it. Enjoy the remainder of your time by SUPing around the lush bay in cool island style.
Insider tip
AUS and VAV are accepted, but notes are not. Make sure you only bring coins.
Mystery Island, Vanuatu Beach Boat Sticks
A beach paradise with a wooden boat in Mystery Island

Embrace the Escape

Unlike most of your other stops, this island is unfrequented and small — give yourself permission to slow down. Take a break from the real world and take in the shimmering turquoise ocean with your Mystery Island cruise. Dig your toes into the white powdery sand, and breathe in the warm, tropical air.
Insider tip
If you are interested in local culture, you can take a quick trip to the nearby Aneityum Island.
Mystery Island, Vanuatu Grilled Lobster
Grilled lobster on the beach

Local Cuisine

The inhabitants of the nearby Aneityum come to the island to prepare food and entertainment for visitors. They serve traditional Vanuatuan food, which is simple and delicious. Cruise to Mystery Island and tuck in to freshly caught grilled lobster for lunch, and treat yourself to island banana pie for dessert.
Mystery Island, Vanuatu Face Carving
A face carved in a tree trunk on the beach of Mystery Island, Vanuatu
Mystery Island, Vanuatu Sarongs
Sarongs for sale on the beach

Shopping

Along the beach, you can find small market stalls set up by locals. They sell postcards, sarongs and traditional trinkets. For a more cultural experience, have your hair braided by one of the local women or enjoy a traditional Vanuatu massage on the beach.

Day 8 - 9: Cruising

Day 8 - 9
Cruising
At Sea
View Itinerary
AN, Anthem of the Seas, Wonderland restaurant, lime dish, culinary,
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
Greek Meze, Coastal Kitchen
Greek Meze, Coastal Kitchen

Coastal Kitchen

Exclusively for suite guests and Pinnacle Club members, Coastal Kitchen fuses Mediterranean influences with farm-fresh flavors from California. Filled with Pacific Coast favorites and Med-inspired entrees, the menu here rotates to spotlight delicious, seasonal ingredients. And you can pair every bite with a glass or bottle of wine off a list that includes vintages from the sun-kissed valleys of Napa to the golden-green hills of Tuscany.
Jamie's Italian Bruschetta
Jamie's Italian Bruschetta Close-Up
Chops Grille Dinner Table Dishes
A top-down view of a couple enjoying dinner dishes at Chops Grille on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship

Chops Grille℠

For more than a decade, the chefs at Chops Grille have specialized in serving up quality, hand-cut meat. Dinner at this hallmark Royal Caribbean specialty restaurant goes far beyond the typical steakhouse experience, though, with reimagined classics like succulent Maine lobster, gruyere cheese tater tots, white truffle-scented mushroom soup, and of course, expertly prepared prime beef.
Ovation of the Seas Fish and Ships Fish Sandwich with Beer
Ovation of the Seas Fish and Ships Fish Sandwich with Beer
La Patisserie
La Patisserie Entrance with Outside Dining

La Patisserie

Get ready for some French confectionary perfection. Take your sweet tooth on a decadent journey through an exciting assortment of flaky macarons, tantalizing petits-fours and rich artisan chocolates — all paired with tasty espressos, frothy cappuccinos and more at La Patisserie.
Cafe Two 70 Soup and Sandwich
Cafe Two 70 Soup and Sandwich Lunch

The Café @ Two70

The Café@Two70 is a gourmet marketplace where every meal comes with a side of captivating views. Choose from a variety of savory hot-pressed sandwiches, crisp custom-made salads, homemade soups and more — all packed up picnic-style, so you can enjoy them while looking out floor-to-ceiling windows in Two70® or anywhere else onboard.

Day 10: Sydney, Australia

Day 10
Sydney
Australia
View Itinerary
Sydney, Australia, Circular quay and opera house
View of the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay with the Skyline in the distance in Australia
Things to do in
Sydney
Arrives at 6:30 AM
You won't have any trouble filling up an itinerary in Sydney — there's a wealth of sights, sounds and activities here to delight adventurers of all stripes. Visit one or all of the city's three iconic landmarks: the Sydney Opera House, the massive arched Harbour Bridge and white-sanded, crescent-shaped Bondi Beach. Get your culture on at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, with works from ancient tribal Australia to medieval Europe to modern times. Cruise to Sydney and check out the North Head Cliffs at Manly Beach, which offer panoramic views of the bay and the skyline, or go snorkeling along the underwater nature trail at secluded Gordon's Bay to spot starfish and sea urchins.
Sydney, Australia, Harbour Bridge
Sydney Harbour Bridge. Australia.

Go in Circles

Circular Quay is the perfect place to start exploring Sydney. You can find the Opera House here, and Harbour Bridge is within walking distance. Stride into one of the many walking and pub tours that leave from here. Just 20 minutes away, you can stretch your legs on the iconic Harbour Bridge walk, the first of its kind in the world.
Insider tip
There are a surprising number of interesting museums in Sydney, including the Maritime Museum, which explores the seafaring history of the city.
Sydney, Australia, Manly beach
People enjoying Manly beach in Sydney, Australia

Get Manly

Bondi Beach gets all the attention, but Manly Beach in the Northern Beaches is a bit more local. The Corso is lined with shops and restaurants, including local favorite, Hugo's. If surfing is your thing, this is the place to be. The walk from Spit Bridge to Manly is a fantastic way to soak in the city's coastline.
Sydney, Australia, Bondi beach
Bondi beach in Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia, The Gap at Watsons Bay
The Gap at Watsons Bay in Sydney, Australia

Walk Watsons

Hop on the ferry or one of the regular buses that go to Watsons Bay to enjoy the scenic hike around South Head. During your journey, you'll enjoy views of Sydney Harbour, North Head, the historic Hornby Lighthouse and, of course, the sapphire-blue Pacific Ocean. The Gap offers breathtaking views of the sea from the rocky cliffside.
Sydney, Australia, Darling harbour
Boats docked on the pier at Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia, Fresh Rock oysters
A plate of fresh Sydney rock oysters

Local Cuisine

With all the water surrounding you, it's no surprise seafood takes center stage on many plates in the city. Head to Sydney Fish Market for giant Sydney Rock oysters or classic fish and ships. Stop into a local pie shop for a traditional Australian meat pie, or explore Sydney's international side with udon or ramen noodles at a Japanese noodle bar, or seek out shrimp dumplings in Chinatown.
Sydney, Australia, Aerial View
Aerial view of Double Bay in Sydney, Australia
Sydney, Australia, Opal ring
An opal ring displayed on a stone

Shopping

There are plenty of shopping malls in the heart of the city, including Westfield Mall, Pitt Street Mall and the wonderful Queen Victoria Building, which is now a shopping mall featuring top designers. Seek out cutting boards made from local camphor laurel — they're not only beautiful but also have natural antimicrobial properties. During your Sydney cruise vacation, look for jewelry made from opal, the national gemstone of Australia.

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