Royal Caribbean has some Australian itineraries, starting this month. They have some good information on their website. Here's some of it:
Beginning in December 2006, Royal Caribbean will be sailing to the home of kangaroos, koalas and kiwis - Australia, New Zealand and the islands. We'll be offering a series of 12- and 14-night cruises to some of the most exciting and enchanting destinations in the South Pacific. Ports of call include: Sydney, Melbourne, Wellington, Christchurch, Tasmania, and more. If you've ever dreamed of an exotic cruise to the South Pacific, this is the year your dreams can come true.
Sydney, Australia Although Sydney is one of the largest cities in the world, you'll find most of the things you want to see and do are centered around one of the world's most beautiful harbors. And the first thing you'll want to do is check out the Sydney Opera House. With its dramatic white-sailed design, it's one of the most easily recognized buildings on earth. Then head for the almost equally familiar Sydney Harbour Bridge for some pictures. In the center of town you'll find a concentration of world-class restaurants, shopping, entertainment and museums. And if you're there during the summer season, no trip to Sydney is complete without a little sun and surf at one of the city's many spectacular beaches.
Hobart, Australia Nestled at the foot of Tasmania's towering Mount Wellington, Hobart is one of the world's most picturesque capital cities. Founded in 1802, Hobart retains the flavor and charm of a small town from a more leisurely era. Walk the streets of this charming city and you'll discover mansions that are fine examples of classic Georgian and Victorian architecture, small cottages, and unique shops and galleries (many of which, your guide might point out, were built by convicts imported from England) Stroll across the oldest road bridge in Australia - Richmond Bridge - and finish the tour with a little tucker and a pint at a local pub.
Wellington, New Zealand Once thought of as a stuffy, old-fashioned backwater town, in recent years Wellington has transformed itself into the most vibrant, sophisticated city in the country. In fact, it has become New Zealand's destination of choice for weekend entertainment, culture and fun. Part of the attraction is that there is so much to do in one concentrated area. Theaters, shops, galleries, restaurants and pubs are all within easy walking distance. And speaking of dining, it's been said that, per capita the number of Wellington restaurants actually rivals New York City. Add to all that, its spectacular harbor-front location, and it's easy to see why a visit to this lovely port town should be at the top of your must-visit list.
The climate varies considerably across Australia and New Zealand. It rarely snows, but it can be windy, chilly and damp in the winter (June to August) and hot, humid and very wet in the summer (December to February).
For onboard wear you'll want to pack the following:
For evening wear, count on three basic types of attire: Casual: Dresses or slacks and blouses for women, sport shirts and trousers for men.Smart Casual: Dresses or pantsuits for women, jackets for men.Formal: Cocktail dresses for women, suits and ties or tuxedos for men (you can arrange to rent a tuxedo onboard).
Onshore in Australia, for the most part, the dress code is "casual but smart." Shorts, polo shirts, light sweaters, khakis and jeans are perfectly acceptable. Of course, you'll want to pack some comfortable walking shoes as well as a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun. A rain slicker and compact umbrella may come in handy for the occasional downpour. You'll also want to bring a few swimsuits so you'll always have a dry one - especially in the warm-weather ports
Information in the above posts was found on the Royal Caribbean website.
Additional information there may be of interest to those planning a cruise to the region.