Top End Northern Explorer

Tuesday 22 April

Depart Auckland on Air New Zealand to arrive in Sydney mid-morning. Transfer to an inner city hotel with the remainder of the day free. 

Welcome Dinner at the hotel.

Wednesday 23 April

After breakfast and a late check out, transfer to Central Railway Station for your early-afternoon departure on the legendary Indian Pacific train to Perth.Settle in and relax as the train passes through the Blue Mountains - a stunning backdrop of rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls.

Thursday 24 April

Arrive in the ‘Silver City’ of Broken Hill this morning. Discover the mining history and artistic culture of this unique town and heritage-listed city. After lunch on board, we reach Adelaide for more Off Train Experiences, including a visit to the world-renowned wine-producing region of the Barossa Valley or soak up the quaint village of Hahndorf with quintessential German food.

Friday 25 April

Today we travel the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world before arriving in Rawlinna this evening for drinks and canapés by the fire. 

Saturday 26 April

Admire the lovely undulations of the Avon Valley and arrive in Perth after lunch. Transfer to an inner-city hotel. 

Sunday 27 April

A morning city tour after breakfast, takes in Perth, the Kings Park Botanical Gardens and Fremantle. A Swan River Cruise completes the day. 

Monday 28 April

Today explore the beautiful capital of Western Australia at your leisure. Why not take the express ferry to Rottnest Island which has stunning beaches, woodlands, salt lakes and its marsupial population of Quokkas.

Tuesday 29 April

Tour to Margaret River, beginning with a drive to Cape Leeuwin, the most south-westerly point of Australia where the Indian and Pacific Oceans meet. Visit the famous lighthouse and later Mammoth Caves, a large limestone cavern where a guided tour is included. 

Wednesday 30 April

Enjoy a day at your leisure. Take a stroll along Swan River and take in in the beautiful views of the city skyline.

Thursday 01 May

A fascinating day out visiting Australia’s only Benedictine Abbey, New Norcia, and the mystical Pinnacle Desert. 

Friday 02 May

Final day to explore the “City of Light”.  See the artistic side of the city, the State Theatre Centre or the Art Gallery of Western Australia or have a water-view lunch at Elizabeth Quay.

Saturday 03 May

After breakfast, transfer to Fremantle to board our home for the next 17 nights. Time to familiarise yourself with the on-board amenities. Set sail mid-afternoon.

Sunday 04 May

Boasting beautiful beaches, this city makes it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. The city also has a rich maritime history, with attractions like the HMAS Sydney II Memorial and the Geraldton Museum showcasing its naval heritage.

Monday 05 May

Time to relax and enjoy the ship as you cruise along the West Australian coastline. Or join the countless number of events on board - cooking demonstrations, trivia contests and enrichment programs.

Wednesday 07 May

Broome was known as the ‘Pearling Capital’ of the world when Japanese, Chinese and Aboriginal divers toiled in arduous conditions to harvest the pearls. Although still a remote outpost, Broome has become a popular tourist destination. 

Thursday 08 May

The crystal-clear waters and natural beauty continue with more opportunities to spot a wide range of marine life. 

Friday 09 May

Although the mainland has been inhabited for many years, the ruggedly beautiful Kimberley Coastline remains unspoilt. With dramatic red cliffs, reefs, islands and aquamarine waters, cruising the Indian Ocean is a great way to see it all.

Saturday 10 May

A day in the Northern capital. Why not take a sightseeing tour – a perfect introduction to Darwin’s history and quirky charm with time to explore on your own.

Sunday 11 May

Two days of simply cruising and enjoying ‘Crown Princess.’ Maybe treat yourself to one of the specialty restaurants in the evening and a Broadway-style show in the theatre.

Thursday 15 May

Cairns is one of Australia’s most-popular destinations, boasting three of Australia’s natural wonders. Just off shore are the immense bastions of living coral which form the Great Barrier Reef. 20km of superb beaches stretch to the north while inland lie the large Daintree National Park.

Friday 16 May

A significant meteorological and wildlife outpost.

Saturday 17 May

The cool and casual capital of Queensland offers all the glitz and glam of a big city without big city airs. Located on the banks of the Brisbane River and surrounded by rolling hills, this urban oasis is certainly a great day out.

Sunday 18 May

Monday 19 May

Arrive into Sydney Harbour and disembark the Crown Princess. Transfer to the airport for a departure on Air New Zealand to Auckland. Arrive late afternoon.

Please ask us about extending your stay in Sydney!