Adventurers who have travelled through this great big country of ours by four-wheel drive might mistakenly believe they have seen it all.
While ticking off the bucket list destinations of Longreach, Ayres Rock, Esperance, Broome, Rainbow Beach and the Kimberleys is admirable and indeed recommended, it is time to see our big, beautiful country of Australia from the sea.
Viking’s Grand Australia Circumnavigation roundtrip from Sydney offers a 32-day luxury cruise which incorporates 14 guided tours and the chance to explore Indonesian treasures in Komodo and Bali.
On this special cruise setting sail from Sydney on 30 December, guests will discover the rich combination of beauty and culture, encountering iconic natural wonders and lesser-known cultural gems.
When circumnavigating Australia, Viking ensures guests take in the beauty of the unspoilt, often wild shoreline and admire the Whitsunday Islands with time to experience a fascinating underwater museum during a snorkelling excursion to the Great Barrier Reef.
While in Cairns, marine lovers can take a catamaran to the Great Barrier Reef or explore the Daintree and Kuranda National Parks, vast rainforest systems.
Traverse the mineral-rich waters of the Coral Sea, then watch the scenery change as you pass Cooktown and trace the route of early civilisations as you sail the Arafura Sea.
Follow in the footsteps of Indonesia’s indigenous people and sail the Timor Sea before reaching the laid-back city of Darwin.
Guests have time to check out the crocodiles, wander the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, or get lost in the extensive Darwin Military Museum, visit the Darwin Aviation Museum or perhaps take a helicopter ride to the Litchfield National Park.
Many enjoy a cup of coffee or sip on a refreshing cocktail or lunch onboard while enjoying the views of Darwin Harbour.
Sail the Timor passing stunning isolated pristine locations and drop into the Komodo National Park (Slawi Bay), Indonesia, with time to get to know the legendary Komodo dragon, or the more graceful Timor deer, beautiful wild horses and stout little boars.
Here guests can swim, snorkel and relax at one of only seven pink beaches in the world, Komodo National Park’s romantic Pink Beach.
The calm, crystal blue waters abound with tropical fish, making Pink Beach a diversity hotspot that is ideal for snorkelling.
On day 14, it is time to discover the intriguing world of gods, temples and crafts in Bali. Enjoy a market visit and Balinese Hindu Temple, arts and crafts, discover Ubud and the Rice Terraces or just soak up the sunshine and relax at a private beach resort on the shores of the Indian Ocean.
Back on board jump in the sauna, refresh in the Snow Grotto or take a dip in the thermal pool to feel recharged and revitalised as the captain sails down the luxury ship down the coastline to beautiful Perth.
Here, there is time to enjoy this immaculate city or duck to Fremantle or take a Rottnest Island Segway Safari and a visit to the friendly quokkas.
Visit the leading wineries of Swan Valley and indulge in a chocolate tasting. These iconic wines are famed for their easy-drinking flavour profiles and encompass fresh, fruity reds alongside crisp, light whites, all well respected for their perfectly balanced flavours.
On to magical Busselton, renowned for its sheltered beaches, mild climate and the nearby Margaret River wine region. Its charming beachfront features the 19th-century Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatory, where visitors can view the vibrant coral reef.
Sail the Indian Ocean to Albany, Western Australia’s southernmost city, with so much to explore, including the historic Whaling Station, Torndirrp National Park and Whiskey Distillery or visit the Valley of the Giants.
Witness the sheer beauty of the Great Australian Bight, the massive open bay that stretches 720 miles along the continent’s southern shore. Enjoy the view and an al fresco dining experience in the Aquavit Terrace, which serves a range of international fare and casual dining favourites, as well as a range of superb cocktails inspired by each destination.
Next stop is Adelaide, Australia’s unsung centre of high culture, history and beauty. Often called a “city within a park,” almost half of Adelaide comprises green spaces, from the lush flora and gurgling fountains of the Adelaide Botanic Garden to the Japanese-style retreat at Adelaide Himeji Garden.
Enjoy scenic sailing in the Bass Strait past King Island, which hosts several settlements and is on the migration route of several bird species.
See another side of Melbourne and immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine with the Viking’s executive chef on an interactive culinary adventure.
Tee off in style during an unforgettable round of golf at one of Melbourne’s top-ranked courses or discover the colourful culture of Melbourne’s laneways.
Pop on a scarf and some woolly socks and enjoy Burnie, the gateway to Tasmania’s rugged natural beauty, including Cradle Mountain Lake, St Clair National Park. The park is a breathtaking landscape of trails, streams, ancient pines and wildlife.
Sail the Gippsland Coast, one of Australia’s most scenic regions, along the southeastern shore of the continent on the Bass Strait. Spend a relaxing day at sea to unwind and admire the vistas from the stateroom veranda.
Visit stunning Eden and its surrounding villages that lie along the scenic Sapphire Coast before arriving back in beautiful Sydney, where new friends disembark with promises of future vacation plans.
This really is a sensational way to see the vastness of the country. For more information, visit www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
