BLUE MOUNTAINS & NEW ZEALAND JEWELS

In the morning discover the iconic Sydney Opera House on a guided behind the scenes walking tour then see Hyde Park, St Mary’s Cathedral, Parliament House, Art Gallery, Woolloomooloo, Kings Cross, and Paddington. Stop at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair for magnificent views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Visit the world famous Bondi Beach, one of the most visited beaches in Australia. Stop here for a mid morning break and soak up the sun or take a walk along the beach. For your Sydney Harbour Cruise, board the prestigious MV Sydney 2000 and enjoy a fantastic buffet lunch and commentary.

This afternoon travel across the Sydney Harbour Bridge to Milsons Point and stop for spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and city skyline. Head East to La Perouse, a historical headland suburb where Captain Cook first landed in 1788. From this vantage point see Botany Bay and the protected beaches where the English and French naval ships arrived on the shores of this land. See the historical buildings and learn how the Aboriginal people were impacted. Return to The Rocks area and discover the birthplace of modern Australia on a guided walking tour. Wander the cobbled laneways and learn the rich history of the area from a British colony of convicts and sailors to a thriving entertainment precinct. Once the tour concludes, choose to stay and enjoy the area or return to your hotel. (BL)

Head west to the iconic Blue Mountains. From a vantage point you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of the Three Sisters. At Scenic World enjoy 360° views of the Jamison Valley. From here it is also possible to purchase the Unlimited Discovery Pass to ride the Scenic Railway, the world’s steepest incline railway, the Cableway and Skyway. Next stop is picturesque Leura - this beautiful village will take you back in time and is famous for its antique stores and its Candy Store.

This afternoon, visit Featherdale Wildlife Park. Get up close to koalas and see kangaroos, crocodiles, goannas and possums. You can also take an optional cruise down the Parramatta River to Sydney Harbour. (BL)

Transfer from your hotel in Sydney to the cruise port where you will embark Norwegian Jewel for your twelve night cruise of New Zealand. (BLD)

Experience all that Norwegian Jewel has to offer on your cruise. The dramatic South Island coastal town of Dunedin offers a mix of unique natural beauty and fascinating history. Rare, yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and the Royal Albatross all call Dunedin home. Equally impressive is the Victorian and Edwardian architecture that dates from its days as a gold rush town. Tiny penguins rule the roost in the historic settlement of Akaroa. Nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano the spectacular surroundings offer a wealth of outdoor activities, both in the sheltered harbour and on dry land. New Zealand’s only castle sits high above the city and offers sweeping views from its famous gardens. Napier calls itself the Art Deco capital of the world, but it’s also a leading wine-travel destination. Levelled by an earthquake in 1931, the city was rebuilt and along with Miami Beach, is one of the best examples of remaining Art Deco style. Explore Tauranga, set on the beautiful Bay of Plenty; head to the beach or discover Tauranga’s lovely parks and rich history. Surrounded by tranquil golden beaches, lush forests and dramatic coastal trails, Auckland is a nature lover’s paradise. The 48 volcanic cones that dot the surrounding area provide stunning panoramic views of the city and harbour. (BLD)

Disembark the ship in Sydney and transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. (B)