New Zealand & Australia by Cruise

Itinerary

• New Zealand

  New Zealand is notable for its geographic isolation, situated about 2000 km (1250 miles) southeast of Australia across the Tasman Sea, and its closest neighbours to the north are New Caledonia, Fiji and Tonga. Auckland is the hub of the islands, and top sights include; Christchurch, Milford Sound, Mount Ruapehu, Queenstown, Rotorua, and Wellington. It is a country of extremes, mountains and ocean, volcanoes and ice, adrenaline activities and B&Bs. A perennial favourite of travelers.

• Auckland

  Auckland is the largest city in the country, and has the largest Polynesian population of any city in the world. It is one of the few cities in the world to have harbours on two separate major bodies of water. Auckland is popularly known as the "City of Sails" because the harbour is often dotted with hundreds of yachts, in fact over 135,000 are registered in the city. Many national treasures are displayed at the Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland War Memorial Museum, the National Maritime Museum, or the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT). Exotic creatures can be observed at the Auckland Zoo and Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World.

• Australia

  Australia is the world's smallest continent, and includes Tasmania and other islands. Prior to European settlement in the late 1700s and early 1800s, the Australian mainland was inhabited by around 250 individual nations of indigenous Australians for around 40,000 years. After sporadic visits by fishermen from the north and then European discovery by Dutch explorers in 1606, the eastern half of Australia was later claimed by the British in 1770 and initially settled through penal transportation to the colony of New South Wales. As the population grew and new areas were explored, another five largely self-governing Crown Colonies were established during the 19th century. On 1 January 1901, the six colonies became a federation, and the Commonwealth of Australia was formed. \There are iconic sights "down under" that find their way on most itineraries; Sydney (Opera House, Harbour Bridge), Ayers Rock, the Great Barrier Reef, Melbourne. Other gems include the wild nature of Tasmania, vineyards of Hunter Valley, surfing on the Gold Coast, Adelaide, Darwin ... and more.

• Melbourne

  Melbourne is the second most populous city in Australia, and is located around Port Phillip Bay in the south-east. The city is often referred to as Australia's 'sporting and cultural capital' and it is home to many of the nation's most significant cultural and sporting events and institutions. Melbourne is notable for its mix of Victorian and contemporary architecture, its extensive tram network and Victorian parks and gardens, as well as its diverse, multicultural society.

• Australia & New Zealand

  Travel the southern waters of the Pacific Ocean aboard a luxury cruise vessel while making stops at popular ports of call to experience the culture and nature that awaits you there. See Australia's vibrant Great Barrier Reef, teeming with marine life, or the lively cosmopolitans of Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland. Set foot in the beautiful countryside of New Zealand and experience the Kiwi way of life. Select an excursion that suits your interests best.

• South Pacific Cruise

  The open waters of the South Pacific surrounding Australia and New Zealand offer cruise guests a perfectly luxurious and relaxing avenue to visit major ports of call including Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland. In these vibrant waters you can find the world's most sizeable and well-known coral reef, the Great Barrier Reef, often included within a ship's cruising vicinity. Feel the southern sun as you walk the deck of your cruise vessel en route to the many dazzling shore excursions which await you.

• Day 1: Mon, Dec 17 2012 -

  Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you would like us to arrange your international flight needs. We can book your flight tickets. Or, we can provide a complete air package with private transfers to/from your home by private vehicle (within the GTA), and flights accompanied by an escort guide.

  Upon confirmation of your trip, you will be sent a package with details of your trip.

  Accommodation: Overnight Flight

• Day 2: Tue, Dec 18 2012 -

  Accommodation: Overnight Flight
• • Auckland
  • Auckland
  • Stamford Plaza Auckland

  Day 3: Wed, Dec 19 2012 - Auckland

  Enjoy the company of an escort during the tour.

  On arrival to Auckland you will be met by your New Zealand Guide who will assist you to the Domestic counter then escort you to the Domestic Terminal (short 5 minute walk) for your on-going flight.

  A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the Auckland Airport and Hotel.

  Your Guide will make sure that everything is looked after for you so that you have the best possible trip!

  Meet your local expert guide for a private afternoon tour and drive to Pride of Auckland kiosk departure gate. Feast your eyes on all the highlights and action of the Auckland Harbour whilst enjoying tea, coffee or hot chocolate with a freshly baked brownie. Cruise Auckland’s magnificent Waitemata Harbour under sail. Refreshments served by your friendly crew, Sit back, relax and take in the sights or be as hands on as you would like. Listen to an informative commentary and enjoy an experience you will always treasure. Please dress comfortably, bring an extra warm layer of clothing, and don’t forget your cameras.

  Enjoy a welcome cocktail reception this evening in the company of your Trip Guide.

  Knights On Albert dining experience highlights the best of a-la-carte dining featuring steak selection, seafood, roast meals and game, all coupled with a fantastic selection from their desserts buffet.

  Accommodation: Stamford Plaza (5*)

  Centrally located in Auckland, this property is near Queen Street Shopping District, Sky Tower, and Auckland City Hall. Additional nearby points of interest include Auckland War Memorial Museum. Guestrooms have premium bedding, air conditioning, and slippers; rooms also include refrigerators, separate bathtubs and showers, and bathrobes. At Stamford Plaza Auckland recreational amenities include an indoor pool, a spa tub, and a sauna. The property also provides a business center, a concierge desk, and a porter/bellhop.

• • Muriwai Beach
  • Crystal Symphony Cruise ship

  Day 4: Thu, Dec 20 2012 - Auckland - South Pacific Cruise

  Travel by way of the wine growing areas of Kumeu and Huapai, to Muriwai Beach on the rugged West Coast with private vehicle. On the cliff tops overlooking the beach take a short walk through the native plants to the lookout point to see the gannet colony. Leaving Muriwai through rural farming districts, you will come to Haumoana Farm (or similar ) — a 200-acre cattle farm situated on the South Kaipara Peninsula. You will be warmly welcomed by your hosts, Greg and Barbara Ross. The farm runs 300 Romney sheep for prime lamb and wool production, 200 cattle, and a small fallow deer unit. See the mustering of sheep by trained sheep dogs, a skilled shearing demonstration, which illustrates just how quickly a sheep can be shorn of its wool, and other typical farm activities. You will be invited to the house for morning tea. Your return drive to Auckland will be through the farming areas of Waitoki and Dairy Flat and on to lunch in the Parnell district of Auckland. Return to pier afterward.

  Welcome on board Crystal Symphony! Embarkation time starts in the afternoon. New Zealand's largest city is along the shores of an extinct volcanic cone known as Rangitoto, often visible to the east. Auckland's population of over one million people represents almost a third of the country's total.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))

  With a sleek silhouette, the Crystal Symphony finds a natural home in the world's most glamorous harbours and idyllic ports of call. The luxurious 50,000-ton, 922-guest ship is one of the most spacious cruise ships at sea, joining Crystal Serenity in the top two spots among Condé Nast Traveler’s best ships in the world. Onboard amenities include grand lounges, full-service fitness facility, Crystal Casino, Feng Shui-inspired spa, 360° teak Promenade Deck, lap pool, Jacuzzi, acclaimed cuisine and spectacular entertainment.

• • Auckland
  • Devonport

  Day 5: Fri, Dec 21 2012 - Auckland - Auckland, New Zealand - South Pacific Cruise

  Auckland is the perfect city from which to experience most of what New Zealand has to offer. The city lies astride a narrow isthmus between the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean on two harbours, the Waitemata and Manukau. Auckland and New Zealand's geographic and cultural treasures beckon for your discovery

  Drive from central Auckland to the beautiful suburb of Devonport, with its unsurpassed views of the city across the harbour with a private vehicle. Enjoy a guided tour of the Devonport Peninsula’s colonial architecture and the peaceful tranquility of this historical village. There are plenty of opportunities for photo stops—Mt Victoria and North Head, where the magnificent panoramas of the Hauraki Gulf, Takapuna Region and Rangitoto Island can be admired. Devonport is most noted for its timber colonial "villa" architecture, glass art gallery and confectioners shops. Stop for lunch at a local beach: Cheltenham Beach in Devonport.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Geothermal Wonderland in Rotorua
  • Rotorua Cultural Experience-Traditional House

  Day 6: Sat, Dec 22 2012 - Tauranga - Tauranga, New Zealand - South Pacific Cruise

  Sprawling along the sweeping bay, Tauranga is a popular summer resort and one of the country's most important ports for the export of kiwi fruit, timber, and dairy products. It is also the gateway for Rotorua, the geothermal wonderland that is one of New Zealand's most famous attractions.

  Experience the unique Maori culture as you visit Te Puia Geo-Thermal Village. Everywhere you look you will see hissing fumaroles, mud pools, boiling waterways and houses balancing on rocky, inhospitable ground. Your guide, a direct descendent of the Tuhourangi-Ngati Wahio tribe, will tell you how people from the village have learned to adapt to this volatile environment, including how they use the thermal activity for cooking. Enjoy morning tea before continuing Whakarewarewa Village, this Maori settlement is set among a beautiful native forest with towering 200-year-old tawa trees. After a traditional greeting or powhiri, walk through the forest with crackling open fires in front of traditional whare (houses)—hear traditional Maori instruments and watch activities of days gone by. Step inside the wharenui or meeting house where a cultural group offers a powerful display of haka, song and dance. You will then be invited into the wharekai (dining room) for a traditional hangi feast where food has been cooked beneath the ground in ovens. After the poroporoaki (closing ceremony) depart for the final stop of the day—the Jade Factory. Here you can watch the ancient art of pounamu (greenstone) carving and learn why this beautiful stone holds such powerful significance to Maori who believe each piece absorbs the mana or spirit of the wearer. You’ll receive a small gift of this captivating stone and have some time to shop if you wish. Admission to Te Puia, geothermal reserve & Kiwi flightless bird nocturnal house, to Whakarewarewa Village including concert, plated Hangi lunch entry to the village, Maori Concert are included. Return to ship.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Promenade Deck

  Day 7: Sun, Dec 23 2012 - South Pacific Cruise

  Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish:  pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at our state-of-the-art fitness center or Walk-on-Water along our 360 grades Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skills or learn about art, history and worldly destinations with engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop our luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of our tranquil pools. From Tai Chi and yoga to PGA golf instruction and paddle tennis on full-size courts, today is all about you. As evening arrives, dine on the inspired cuisines of Nobu Matsuhisa, Piero Selvaggio and Crystal’s own acclaimed chefs, enjoy special wine-makers dinners, lavish Broadway-style productions, intimate lounges, a pulsing dance club or our action-packed Crystal Casino.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Napier
  • Puketapu Vineyard

  Day 8: Mon, Dec 24 2012 - Napier - Napier, New Zealand - South Pacific Cruise

  Northeast of the capital city of Wellington is Napier, a town with much to boast about. Napier is known for producing wool, growing fruit, cultivating grapes and making wine. The natural setting that helps in its agricultural pursuits also makes Napier popular among retirees and tourists; after all, who can resist picturesque countryside with an air of sophistication-and not a whiff of pretension. Add to its bucolic charms a rich Maori history and tales of explorer Captain Cook and you have a destination worthy of your own discovery.

  Puketapu with its lovely rolling hills and picturesque valleys is quintessential Hawke’s Bay countryside at its best. From the ship you will drive with private vehicle through the picturesque Hawke’s Bay countryside to a boutique winery where you will participate in a tasting, then head through the Puketapu/Dartmoor countryside where you will view the farming and wine growing regions. There will also be an opportunity to visit an historic local church and learn its history. You will meet local resident Hamish Prins and his wife Diane and visit their home and beautifully landscaped garden, called Horsford Downs. Enjoy light refreshments served in their garden and take time to wander around the garden and orchard. Leaving Horsford Downs, relax for a scenic drive back to Napier via Taradale, with spectacular views of the Heretaunga Plains and the Hawke’s Bay coastline. Return to ship.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Relaxing on board

  Day 9: Tue, Dec 25 2012 - South Pacific Cruise

  Relax on board while you enjoy the cruise ship amenities.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Christchurch Gardens
  • Akaroa

  Day 10: Wed, Dec 26 2012 - Christchurch - Lyttelton, New Zealand - South Pacific Cruise

  Just 30 minutes from the pier at Lyttelton lays Christchurch, New Zealand's spectacular "Garden City."  Founded as a model church settlement in 1851, Christchurch is now the South Island's premier metropolitan center. The planner's dream of creating an English town is reflected in its well-tended gardens, fine Victorian architecture and ivy-covered stone homes, set beside the meandering River Avon.
  Fine craft shopping, excellent restaurants and a wealth of nearby sightseeing attractions, including flight seeing to snow-capped Mount Cook and drives into the gently rolling Canterbury Plains, abound. You may also choose to view the country's Southern Alps by train, visit the International Antarctic Centre or venture farther afield for an overland experience in Queenstown.

  You`ll meet your private English speaking driver/guide and drive to Akaroa. Akaroa is a historic French and British settlement located on Banks Peninsular in the Canterbury region of the South Island. Explore the village with its colonial architecture, craft stores, and cafés. Relax in the sun at French Bay, or find a secluded beach of your own in one of the neighbouring bays. Head out onto the harbour, where scenic, fishing, and wildlife encounter cruises are available. The beautiful harbour dominates the landscape and is home to a variety of sea and bird life including the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin, the Hectors Dolphin. Time to enjoy a 3 course lunch in a local Bully Hayes restaurant. After the lunch continue to drive to the outlook point "Hilltop". You will enjoy a crazy outlook over the beautiful bay of Akaroa. On the return you will visit the traditional cheese manufacturer "Barry Bay Cheese" where you can taste local cheese sorts (cheese tasting included). Return trip to the ship in Lyttleton.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Dunedin
  • Railway Station

  Day 11: Thu, Dec 27 2012 - Dunedin - Chalmer, New Zealand - South Pacific Cruise

  The charming city of Dunedin lies in south-eastern New Zealand, less than ten miles from our pier in Port Chalmers. Its name means Edinburgh in Gaelic and to this day it has retained enduring reminders of its Scottish roots. Adorning the streets of Dunedin is a wealth of Victorian and Edwardian buildings, richly festooned with spires, gables and gargoyles. These architectural landmarks are imposing reminders of a more prosperous era. Surprisingly, the surrounding area is also home to prolific local wildlife, animals rarely found so close to a major city. The choice is yours: explore impressive city architecture, take a rail journey through unspoiled wilderness or venture out to view albatrosses and a country estate.

  Today take a fully guided award winning, informative and interactive tour through The Speight's Brewery and heritage centre. During the tour you will see, touch, smell and taste the ingredients going into making the legendary South island Speight’s beer. Learn the history of beer making, the brewing process and how to make the traditional wooden beer casks. Please wear covered shoes on this tour. Alcohol will not be served to under 18yr olds. Continue with the major architectural landmarks of Dunedin. You will see splendid stone buildings in Victorian and Edwardian style, built by wealthy merchants when Dunedin was New Zealand’s most prosperous city. You’ll see ornate stonework at Otago University, New Zealand’s first university and the Railway Station—a marvelous construction of iron latticework and bluestone, emblazoned with heraldic lions. You’ll also have a chance to admire the First Church of Otago, Municipal Chambers, Law Courts, the brick Victorian police station, several old bank buildings and the Otago Museum. Then it’s on to a stop at Olveston—a magnificent Edwardian-era mansion built in Jacobean style, offering you a glimpse at the life of a prosperous local merchant at the turn of the century. After your visit, stop for lunch at a local brewery restaurant. Return to the ship afterward.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Relax at the Swimming Pool

  Day 12: Fri, Dec 28 2012 - South Pacific Cruise

  Adjust the compass of your mood and design your day exactly as you wish:  pamper yourself at the Feng Shui-inspired Crystal Spa, work-out at the state-of-the-art fitness center or Walk-on-Water along the 360 degree Promenade Deck; teach yourself something new with complimentary language lessons by Berlitz or piano instruction with Yamaha; enhance your computer skills or learn about art, history and worldly destinations with engaging lecture series; sneak away to watch recently-released movies in the Hollywood Theater, shop the luxury boutiques, or simply relax by one of the tranquil pools. From Tai Chi and yoga to PGA golf instruction and paddle tennis on full-size courts, today is all about you. As evening arrives, dine on the inspired cuisines of Nobu Matsuhisa, Piero Selvaggio and Crystal’s own acclaimed chefs, enjoy special wine-makers dinners, lavish Broadway-style productions, intimate lounges, a pulsing dance club or our action-packed Crystal Casino.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Relax on board

  Day 13: Sat, Dec 29 2012 - South Pacific Cruise

  Relax on board while you cruise Milford Sound.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Cruising the Tasman Sea

  Day 14: Sun, Dec 30 2012 - South Pacific Cruise

  Cruise The Tasman Sea located in the south-western segment of the South Pacific Ocean today. Relax on board and enjoy the ship facilities.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Sydney
  • The Rocks

  Day 15: Mon, Dec 31 2012 - Sydney - Sydney, Australia - South Pacific Cruise

  Sydney is an energetic and exciting metropolis whose nightlife, shopping and fine restaurants compare favourably with the finest the world has to offer. Despite its modern advances, Sydney has lovingly cherished its heritage, for this was the birthplace of the Australian nation.

  Travel back in time to Sydney’s oldest village—the Rocks. This historic enclave sits in the shadow of the dazzling Harbour Bridge. Traveling through central Sydney, watch for the Sydney Tower, the magnificent Queen Victoria Building, the modern Darling Harbour Complex, magical Chinatown and Mrs Macquaries’ Chair. The most sought-after residential areas in Sydney are Darling Point and Watson’s Bay. You’ll also stop at Bondi—the world-famous surfing beach where delightful cafés and restaurants line the main street. Return to the city via Paddington, with its narrow streets whose houses are lined with picturesque verandahs framed by wrought iron railings. After the tour concludes you will be transferred back to the ship.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Sydney Harbour
  • Taronga Zoo

  Day 16: Tue, Jan 01 2013 - Sydney - Sydney, Australia - South Pacific Cruise

  Combine Sydney's boundless attractions with its superb harbour side location, and you have that certain magic that few other cities can rival. The ship will stay in the port for the whole day.

  Sydney's zoo - Taronga Zoo - is situated on Bradley's Head and enjoys one of the most spectacular views of Sydney Harbour and the city. Learn about wildlife from a real zookeeper who will take you on an exclusive tour and provide close encounters with some of Australia’s most remarkable creatures. You will receive an introduction to Australia's unusual wildlife including excellent photo opportunities with koalas, kangaroos and echidnas. Venture into the wilderness of the Australian bush, enter the underground burrow of the endangered Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat and explore the mysteries of the platypus. Your keeper will explain the special adaptations that enable these animals to live in harmony with the Australian environment. This experience include: a round-trip on the Sky Safari cable car - discover why Taronga is known as "The Zoo with a View", visit a working “animal kitchen“ and see how the food is prepared, venture behind-the-scenes in the Australian Nightlife house and enjoy encounters with nocturnal creatures, hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies, meet hand-raised native animals, morning or afternoon tea and an Aussie animal souvenir. Return to ship.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Manly Beach

  Day 17: Wed, Jan 02 2013 - Sydney - Sydney, Australia - South Pacific Cruise

  Your ship will depart later in the afternoon today.

  Depart your cruise ship in the morning with private vehicle and driver/guide, cross the spectacular Sydney Harbour Bridge, see Seaforth, Middle Harbour & The Spit, yachts, waterfront mansions, Sydney Harbour National Park & North Head, Long Reef, Freshwater & Manly Beaches. Experience Sydney's amazing Northern Beaches from Long Reef - Pacific Ocean and 50km beach views. See 'The Duke' at Freshwater Beach (Australia's first surfer), stop at Manly Beach with time to browse in the shops. Visit stunning North Head in Sydney Harbour National Park with clifftop views back to Sydney city - an unmissable sight. After lunch in the afternoon you will be dropped back at the cruise ship.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Enjoy on Board

  Day 18: Thu, Jan 03 2013 - South Pacific Cruise

  Today enjoy  a day on board while you cruise the Tasman Sea.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Melbourne
  • Fountain at Fitzroy Gardens

  Day 19: Fri, Jan 04 2013 - Melbourne - Melbourne, Australia - South Pacific Cruise

  This morning arrive to Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria. It maintains an air of old-world grace and refined dignity with spacious tree-lined boulevards and expansive parks. The prosperous lifestyle of its people is both cosmopolitan and sophisticated. Quaint trams rumble through the downtown area past verdant gardens and impressive high-rises, in a city that has never lost its endearing charm. The heritage of more than 100 different cultures has contributed to Melbourne's richly international character. This diverse ethnic mix is exemplified by its range of 15,000 dining venues which offer more than 50 different kinds of cuisine. Melbourne's sightseeing is as diverse as it is composition and beckons for your discovery.

  Take in the scenic highlights of Melbourne on a narrated panoramic drive with private vehicle through the city. This will include viewing of the beautiful Princess Theatre, the Arts & Cultural Center, Melbourne Cricket Grounds, and Melbourne Park. Stops will be made at Queen Victoria Market and the Royal Botanic Gardens. There will also be a stop for "morning tea" at the traditional Hopetoun Tea Rooms (escort to pay) in busy Collins Street. Visit Cook`s Cottage, located in the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens since 1934, originally built in England in 1755, by the parents of Captain James Cook. Come and wander through the cottage and gardens, trying to imagine what life might have been like for Captain Cook’s family, as well as the other tenants of the cottage during its 178 years in Yorkshire. Enjoy a 3-course lunch with a glass of wine. Return to ship afterward.

  Accommodation: Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))
• • Melbourne
  • View of Melbourne
  • The Hotel Windsor

  Day 20: Sat, Jan 05 2013 - Melbourne - Melbourne, Australia

  This morning disembark Crystal Symphony.

  Just over an hour's drive from Melbourne lays the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. It offers visitors a huge variety of natural and manmade attractions and a magnificent wine region with more than 170 wineries. Nowhere in Australia are the vineyards back dropped by such breathtaking seascapes. The climate and rich soil have combined to make the Peninsula one of Australia's great Pinot Noir and Chardonnay regions. Enjoy lunch at local restaurant. Continue to Dromana located in Victoria, south of the capital city, Melbourne, between Mornington and St Andrews Beach. Overlooking Dromana from the south, Arthurs Seat is the highest point on the Mornington Peninsula. Visit Heronswood House and Garden a breathtaking historic property situated on two hectares of formal gardens and home to the Digger's Club. The gardens comprise of stunning perennial and annual borders as well as kitchen and vegetable parterre gardens, providing inspiration to cooks and gardeners. At the end you will be transferred at your hotel in Melbourne.

  Celebrate the end of your journey with a cocktail reception this evening in the company of your Horizon Guide.

  Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening in the company of your guide. Beverages are not included in the tour cost.

  Accommodation: Windsor

  Within the heart of Melbourne and close to the fantastic shopping and dining available along Collins and Bourke Streets is The Hotel Windsor (5*). The hotel is directly opposite the historic Victoria Parliament House and the Old Treasury Building and is also near to many of the city’s other famous and historic sites as well. The 180 rooms and suites are also opulently decorated, but full of all the modern amenities required by travelers. The hotel was built in the 1880s and still retains its period charm and elegance, but has been refurbished to allow for many modern facilities and conveniences. These include a gourmet restaurant, lounge and bar.

• Day 21: Sun, Jan 06 2013 - Melbourne

  Take a private airport transfer in Melbourne with a private vehicle and driver.

  Gratuities for your wonderful Crystal Cruise crew members are covered for you by your escort guide as well as gratuities for all hotel porters, local guides and transfers are covered on your behalf.

  Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodation

• Collectibles

  Australia is famous for its marsupial species that include kangaroos, wombats, wallabies, Tasmanian devils and of course the cuddly koalas. These bear-like animals are found in South Eastern Australia and were given the name "koala" by Aboriginals, a word that means "no drink". The Koala obtains enough moisture from the eucalyptus leaves that it feeds on, a plant that would be indigestible to most other life forms.

• Culinary Delights

  There is much more to Australian barbeques than shrimp. Northern Territory barbeques feature indigenous fare like barramundi, kangaroo, emu, ostrich as well as chicken and lamb grilled on the barbecue with oil and seasoning. Of course an outback barbeque is never complete without billy tea at the end. This is simply tea boiled in a tin container known as a "billy".

• Historic Moment

  The Australian "Slouch" hat, or "Digger" hat, is nearly as old as the Australian fighting man. Originating in the army, it traditionally has a leather chin strap made from rabbit-fur felt or wool felt, and is turned up on the side (originally perhaps to keep out of the way of a lance or rifle). It also helps stay clear of that scorching outback sun!

• • Stamford Plaza Auckland

  Stamford Plaza (5*)

  Centrally located in Auckland, this property is near Queen Street Shopping District, Sky Tower, and Auckland City Hall. Additional nearby points of interest include Auckland War Memorial Museum. Guestrooms have premium bedding, air conditioning, and slippers; rooms also include refrigerators, separate bathtubs and showers, and bathrobes. At Stamford Plaza Auckland recreational amenities include an indoor pool, a spa tub, and a sauna. The property also provides a business center, a concierge desk, and a porter/bellhop.

  • More information

• Crystal Symphony (Deluxe (E))

  With a sleek silhouette, the Crystal Symphony finds a natural home in the world's most glamorous harbours and idyllic ports of call. The luxurious 50,000-ton, 922-guest ship is one of the most spacious cruise ships at sea, joining Crystal Serenity in the top two spots among Condé Nast Traveler’s best ships in the world. Onboard amenities include grand lounges, full-service fitness facility, Crystal Casino, Feng Shui-inspired spa, 360° teak Promenade Deck, lap pool, Jacuzzi, acclaimed cuisine and spectacular entertainment.

  • More information
• • The Hotel Windsor

  Windsor

  Within the heart of Melbourne and close to the fantastic shopping and dining available along Collins and Bourke Streets is The Hotel Windsor (5*). The hotel is directly opposite the historic Victoria Parliament House and the Old Treasury Building and is also near to many of the city’s other famous and historic sites as well. The 180 rooms and suites are also opulently decorated, but full of all the modern amenities required by travelers. The hotel was built in the 1880s and still retains its period charm and elegance, but has been refurbished to allow for many modern facilities and conveniences. These include a gourmet restaurant, lounge and bar.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon Holidays (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon Holidays
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-holidays.com
  Web: www.horizon-holidays.com

• What's Included:

  • * Accommodation as per itinerary * meals as indicated * all entrance fees and tours * all transfers and baggage handling - all local experts and specialists * the leadership of a logistics guide of group six of and over * all special events and on-trip surprises * all gratuities to porters, drivers, restaurants and other service staff * non-alcoholic beverages and cocktail receptions as per itinerary * all pre-departure materials, including documents wallets and destination details * all gratuities to the Horizon Guide (if relevant).

• What's not Included:

  • * Incidentals * alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted * Optional activities/extras * Visas (unless noted) * Vacation insurance * International airfare * Optional activities/extras.

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  Your deposit is due immediately on booking (CAD2000). The balance is due 120 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order. Prices are based on costs effective on the date noted in the brochure and are subject to change due to airfare increases, additional taxes and fees, changes in the exchange rate or other factors beyond our control. The scheduled departure is guaranteed with 10 or more .We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary; however, in case of circumstances out of our control, we may be forced to offer substitutes. The trip price does not include any insurance coverage, and we strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance to protect your trip investment in the event of medical emergencies, lost bags, a cancelled trip or any other unforeseen trip or pre-trip related event. Cancellations outside 120 days prior to departure will be subject to loss of $350 per person fee, plus any other non-refundable paid fees (eg. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits) .91-120 days will be subject to loss of 25% of trip price. 60-90 days will be subject to 50% of trip price. 0-60 days will be subject to 100% of trip price. Horizon Cancellations: Horizon reserves the right to cancel any trip at any time for any reason if the quality of the trip or the safety of the travelers is judged to be compromised. In such circumstances, refund of all payments received by Horizon shall constitute full settlement. Horizon is not responsible for any additional loss incurred on travel arrangements or air tickets due to a trip cancellation. Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions. Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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