Holland America Line: 28 nights from Sydney with Noordam (4 Jan 2026)

Brisbane

Historical Roots

Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, has a deep-rooted history that traces back to the indigenous Jagera and Turrbal peoples. The city's modern establishment in the early 19th century as a penal colony for the British Empire marks the beginning of its colonial history. Today, Brisbane honors its indigenous and colonial heritage through various historical sites and museums, offering a window into its complex past and the rich tapestry of cultures that have shaped it.

Sunlit Days and Starry Nights

Boasting a subtropical climate, Brisbane is a city where sunny days predominate, and mild winters are the norm. This enviable weather supports an outdoor lifestyle, encouraging locals and visitors alike to explore the city's extensive parklands, river walks, and outdoor dining options. Brisbane's climate is one of its greatest assets, inviting everyone to enjoy the city's natural and urban landscapes in almost any season.

Discover Brisbane's Charms

From the natural wonders of the Brisbane River to the man-made marvels like the Story Bridge, Brisbane is a city of diverse attractions. The South Bank Parklands offer a cultural and recreational haven with its lush parks, world-class museums, and the Streets Beach. The nearby Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary provides an unforgettable experience with Australia's native wildlife. For the adventurous, the nearby Moreton Island offers pristine beaches and the opportunity for dolphin feeding and wreck diving.

A Culinary Journey

Brisbane's culinary scene is a testament to its growing diversity, offering an array of local and international flavors. The city's food markets, such as the Eat Street Northshore, provide a feast for the senses with an assortment of gourmet foods, artisan products, and live music. Queensland's fresh produce, seafood, and world-class wines are prominently featured in local restaurants, making dining in Brisbane a delightful experience that mirrors the region's bounty.

Set Sail from Brisbane

Embarking on a cruise from Brisbane offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the Pacific's enchanting destinations. The city's modern cruise terminal serves as a gateway to exotic locales, combining the convenience of urban amenities with the allure of adventure at sea. Whether you're seeking a tropical escape to nearby islands or an extended voyage across oceans, Brisbane provides the perfect starting point for your journey, promising an experience that begins with the wonders of the city itself.

Townsville

Cairns

Explore Cairns: Tropical Paradise in Australia

Cairns, located in Queensland, Australia, is a captivating city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure. Established in 1876, Cairns has grown from a small port town to a bustling tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant marine life.

Tropical Climate of Cairns

Cairns enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The city experiences two main seasons: the wet season from November to April, characterized by heavy rainfall and lush greenery, and the dry season from May to October, offering sunny days ideal for outdoor activities like exploring the Great Barrier Reef or hiking in the nearby rainforests.

Top Attractions and Places to Visit in Cairns

Discover Cairns' top attractions, including the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef, where you can snorkel or dive among colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Explore the lush Kuranda Rainforest by scenic railway or Skyrail cableway, visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park to learn about indigenous culture, or relax on the sandy shores of Palm Cove or Trinity Beach.

Local Cuisine: Flavors of Tropical North Queensland

Indulge in Cairns' culinary scene with fresh seafood like barramundi and prawns, tropical fruits such as mangoes and papayas, and unique Australian bush foods like kangaroo and crocodile meat. Sample local dishes at the Rusty's Markets or enjoy waterfront dining along the Esplanade while savoring regional specialties like mud crab and Moreton Bay bugs.

Embark on an Unforgettable Cruise from Cairns

Enhance your Cairns experience by booking a cruise departing from this coastal city. Choose from a variety of cruises exploring the Great Barrier Reef's pristine waters, remote islands like Fitzroy Island or Green Island, or scenic coastal voyages offering stunning views of Queensland's coastline. A cruise from Cairns promises unforgettable adventures and encounters with Australia's natural wonders.

Alotau

Conflict Group

Kiriwina

Honiara

Luganville

Port Vila

Mystery Island

Lautoka

With a population of around 52,500 people, Lautoka is the second largest city in Fiji and it is located on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, the largest island in the Fijian archipelago.

Lautoka is a dynamic city where industrial activity, cultural richness, and natural beauty are perfectly mixed together. The city is named after a battle cry that means ‘spear-hit’. According to legend, when an argument erupted between two local chiefs, one shouted the words Lau -Toka meaning “spear –hit” or “hit to win” as he killed the other by spearing him through the chest. The city is also known as the "Sugar City" due to its famous sugar industry.

The Lautoka Sugar Mill was founded in 1903, its importance has grown over the years becoming one of the largest in the country and a major employer in the region. Besides sugar, economy includes tourism, manufacturing, and services. The city serves as an important port for both commercial and cruise ships, contributing to its economic vitality. The importance of the port is linked to both trade and tourism. The port sees a bunch of cruise liners, giving passengers a chance to explore the city’s historic sites, hit the beaches and shop around.

Cruises from or stopping in Lautoka often include itineraries through Oceania and Polynesia. These cruises are a great way to see the beauty and culture of the this area, with Lautoka being a highlight for many travelers. Lautoka is a vibrant city with a mix of different cultures and ethnicities, reflecting Fiji's diverse demographic makeup. Lautoka has a vibrant cultural scene with various festivals, markets, and events that celebrate the rich heritage and traditions of its people. If you want to taste local cuisine the Lautoka Market is for you. It is a bustling hub where locals sell fresh produce, handicrafts, and other goods. Rugby and soccer plays an important role in Lautoka sporting culture. If you are a sport lover, Churchill Park is for you. It is a notable sports venue in Lautoka that hosts various local and international sporting events.

Suva

Dravuni Island

Neiafu

Nuku Alofa

Waitangi (Bay Of Islands)

Tauranga

Auckland

Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand, which is located on the North Island. It got its start in 1840 and was named after George Eden, he was the first Earl of Auckland. Before Europeans showed up, the area was home to the Māori, New Zealand’s indigenous people. Key historical spots like Mount Eden and Maungakiekie are still super important to the Māori. The Māori have a bunch of myths and legends about Auckland. One such myth tells of a giant lizard, Taniwha, who supposedly lives in the Hauraki Gulf waters.

These tales are passed down through the generations and are a vital part of the local culture. Back in the 19th century, Auckland was a major port and trading center, which helped it grow fast. In 1865, the capital of New Zealand was moved to Wellington, but Auckland kept booming thanks to its strategic location and industrial potential. It’s called the "City of Sails'' because there are so many yachts in the Hauraki Gulf. Auckland has a bunch of museums and art galleries, like the Auckland Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery.

The city’s surrounded by gorgeous beaches, volcanic hills and dense forests. There are also several nature reserves and national parks nearby. Auckland’s cuisine is super diverse, reflecting its multicultural vibe. You’ll find restaurants serving Asian, European, Polynesian and Māori dishes. One of New Zealand’s national dishes is hangi, it’s a traditional Māori meal cooked in an earth oven. Meat and veggies are cooked in underground pits with hot stones, giving them a unique smoky flavor. Auckland is a major cruise hub for cruise tourism in the Pacific. The Port of Auckland sees a bunch of cruise ships heading out to the Pacific Islands, New Zealand’s coast and Australia. Popular cruise destinations include Vanuatu, Fiji and New Caledonia.

Cruises from Auckland offer not only luxury and relaxation on board but also a chance to see awesome landscapes and get a taste of New Zealand’s culture. Auckland is a city with a rich history, cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty, attracting tourists from all over the world with its cuisine, attractions and cruise opportunities.