Day 1: Perth
Arrive in the laid-back city of Perth, beautifully situated along Swan River and the Indian Ocean. Begin your exploration at Kings Park, a vast urban park offering stunning views of downtown Perth. Discover the city's eclectic neighbourhoods, immerse yourself in indigenous art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia, or visit the Perth Zoo to encounter Australia’s native wildlife. Take a trip to Swan Valley, the oldest wine region in Western Australia, and sample local wines at one of its historic vineyards. Explore Fremantle's 19th-century port streetscape, delve into its maritime history at the Western Australia Maritime Museum and Shipwreck Galleries, or walk the Manjaree Heritage Trail to learn about life before European settlement.
Day 2: Busselton, Australia
Known as Western Australia's premier resort town, Busselton offers a blend of relaxed seaside charm and vibrant city life. Explore the beautiful coastline and the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the Underwater Observatory to see over 300 marine species, or enjoy Busselton’s pristine beaches and limestone caves. Culture enthusiasts can explore the Busselton Museum or the Old Courthouse Art Complex for insights into the region’s history.
Day 3: Albany, Australia
As Western Australia's oldest colonial settlement, Albany is rich in history and natural beauty. Founded in 1826 as a British military outpost, it evolved into a key port for Australian troops in World War I and a base for the whaling industry. History buffs can visit the Anglican church, town hall, restored gaol, and a unique whaling station museum. The rugged coastline and Princess Royal Harbour provide breathtaking views, with Ataturk Entrance offering a dramatic and scenic approach to the harbour.
Day 4: Esperance, Australia
Nestled on the Bay of Isles, Esperance enchants with its tranquil charm and stunning natural beauty. Explore Cape Le Grand National Park to see friendly kangaroos and enjoy coastal trails with spectacular ocean views. Off the coast, the Recherche Archipelago features white sand beaches, eucalyptus forests, a unique pink lake, and colonies of sea eagles, sea lions, and fur seals. Spend time at Twilight Beach marveling at unusual rock formations or visit the Esperance Museum to view local history, including pioneer artifacts and shipwreck relics.
Days 5 & 6: At Sea.
Days 7 & 8: Adelaide, Australia
South Australia’s coastal capital, Adelaide, combines the charm of a picturesque town with lively city attractions. Discover local history at the South Australian Art Museum or explore Adelaide Central Market for regional delicacies. Tour Adelaide Oval, known as the world’s most beautiful cricket ground, and venture into the nearby Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, or McLaren Vale wine regions to experience exceptional local wines.
Day 9: Penneshaw (Kangaroo Island), Australia
Kangaroo Island, one of Australia's most beautiful hidden gems, features thriving wildlife, dramatic coastal cliffs, lush eucalyptus forests, rolling hills, and stunning beaches. In Penneshaw, see indigenous fairy penguins or visit Island Beach for snorkelling and birdwatching. Explore Flinders National Park to encounter koalas, kangaroos, and fur seals, or visit Seal Bay Conservation Park to walk among friendly sea lions. Alternatively, relax with a glass of sparkling shiraz at Sunset Winery, offering panoramic views of Eastern Cove.
Day 10: Portland, Australia
Victoria’s first European settlement, Portland is a vibrant harbour town with historic waterfront and colonial architecture. Stroll down Julia Street to admire heritage buildings and visit the History House museum. Explore Portland’s whaling history at the Maritime Discovery Center or watch whales and seals in Portland Bay, Cape Nelson, or Cape Bridgewater. Nearby, discover blowholes and the remarkable petrified forest.
Day 11: Melbourne, Australia
Experience Melbourne’s diverse attractions, from the scenic Dandenong Mountains and a ride on the Puffing Billy steam train to encounters with koalas and wallabies at a wildlife park. Explore the city's impressive architecture, chic galleries, and boutique shops.
Day 12: Geelong, Australia
Enjoy Geelong’s vibrant waterfront, featuring well-maintained walkways, shops, restaurants, and public art. Visit local wineries, explore the Wool Museum, or engage in snorkelling, jet skiing, or kite surfing.
Day 13: Burnie (Tasmania), Australia
Located in northwest Tasmania, Burnie offers a unique blend of industry and art. Visit the Makers’ Workshop for insights into the papermaking process and local arts. Explore Burnie’s natural beauty at Fern Glade Reserve or the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden.
Day 14: At Sea.
Day 15: Eden, Australia
Eden, New South Wales’ southernmost town, is set between picturesque bays and dramatic cliffs. Explore its whaling history at the Killer Whale Museum, go whale-watching, and visit the Sapphire Coast Marine Discovery Centre. Discover blowholes and the nearby petrified forest.
Days 16 & 17: Sydney, Australia
Explore Sydney’s iconic landmarks, including the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach. Take a scenic walk through the Rocks, visit the Blue Mountains, or enjoy the unique wildlife at a local park.
Days 18, 19 & 20: At Sea.
Day 21: Picton, NZ
Built around a sheltered harbour, Picton offers a charming seafront with cafés, restaurants, and galleries. Enjoy a floating maritime museum, aquarium, or scenic cruises, and explore the Queen Charlotte Track and Marlborough Sounds.
Day 22: Wellington, NZ
Stroll past Victorian Gothic architecture, visit the botanic gardens, and ride the cable car for panoramic views. Explore the harbour, visit a sheep or cattle station, and see sites from the Lord of the Rings films.
Day 23: Napier, NZ
Admire Napier’s Art Deco architecture and explore the surrounding countryside. Tour local vineyards and sample fine wines, and visit a large gannet nesting colony near Captain Cook’s landing site.
Day 24: Rotorua (Tauranga), NZ
Discover Tauranga’s parks and history or head to Rotorua to experience geysers, hot springs, and Maori culture. Explore the scenic Rangitaiki River.
Day 25: Auckland, NZ
Enjoy Auckland’s parks, spectacular views from Mount Eden, and learn about Maori culture. Visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, explore coastal areas, see a gannet colony, or visit a vineyard or one of the city’s sixty volcanoes.
