12 Apostles, Port Campbell National Park
Australia in Depth
Circumnavigation of our
Island Continent
Your Itinerary
L’Austral | 40 nights
25 January - 6 March 2018
njoy a day at sea, getting acquainted with L’Austral and the luxury
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surrounds of your stateroom.
This voyage, exclusively designed
by Cruiseco, is a journey around
our Island Continent like no other.
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity
to experience a different and
exclusive type of holiday, a concept
of travel that is intimate, luxurious
and authentic.
Thu 25 Jan 2018 - Depart Sydney, New South Wales
Embark L’Austral and set sail from stunning Sydney Harbour this evening.
Fri 26 Jan 2018 - Australia Day At Sea
Sat 27 Jan 2018 - Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park, Tasmania
Today we’ll anchor in Wineglass Bay, where transfers ashore will be by
zodiac for a wet landing. An included guided walk to the Wineglass Bay
lookout will reward guests with views of crystal clear waters and the white
sandy beach.
Sun 28 Jan 2018 - Beauty Point, Tamar River, Tasmania
Dock at Beauty Point in the stunning Tamar Valley for a day of optional
tours. The Tamar Valley is one of Tasmania’s prettiest regions, home to
idyllic villages, rolling hills and magnificent little wineries.
Optional excursions include:
- Tamar Valley winery tour
- Cataract Gorge tour
- Barbougle Golf Course
Mon 29 Jan 2018 - Grassy, King Island, Tasmania
Arrive at the majestic King Island, where the ship will anchor and guests
are transferred ashore by zodiac.
ing Island is famous for its mouth-watering grass fed beef, gourmet
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cheese and fresh seafood plucked from the Island’s crystal clear waters.
Be sure to sample some of the local produce while you visit.
Optional excursions include:
- King Island Highlights tour
- Ocean Dunes or Cape Wickham Golf Course
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Tamar Valley Vineyard
Sea Lions, Port Lincoln
Flinders Chase National Park
Wineglass Bay
Thu 01 Feb 2018 - Kangaroo Island, South Australia
The hardest choice on
King Island is deciding
which outdoor activity
to indulge in, or how
much famous King Island
cheese to consume.
Tue 30 Jan 2018 - Port Campbell, Victoria
Anchoring in Port Campbell today. Guests will be transferred ashore by
zodiac.
ort Campbell is a lively and colourful seaside village, boasting restaurants
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and cafes overlooking the beach. Bakeries, galleries and shops offer visitors
the perfect backdrop to wander and explore.
Optional excursions include:
- Port Campbell National Park and the 12 Apostles
-Scenic helicopter flights over the 12 Apostles
- Experience the Great Ocean Road
n overland option is also available from Port Campbell. See page 12 for
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full details.
Wed 31 Jan 2018 - At Sea
Relax onboard L’Austral with a day at sea to recharge your batteries.
Perhaps attend a presentation by one of our expedition leaders.
rriving in Kangaroo Island, the ship will anchor and guests will be
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transferred ashore by tender.
angaroo Island, located just off the coast of South Australia, is brimming
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with pristine beaches, wildlife, adventure and exploring.
Optional excursions include:
- Kangaroo Island Flora and Fauna tour
- Flinders Chase National Park
- Local Food and Wine tour
- Kangaroo and Sea Lion tour
n overland option is also available from Kangaroo Island. See page 13 for
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full details.
Fri 02 Feb 2018 - Port Lincoln, South Australia
Today we will dock alongside the wharf in Port Lincoln, the self-proclaimed
“Seafood Capital of Australia.”
ort Lincoln’s beautiful township overlooks Boston Bay, home to a myriad
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of sealife, including Sea Lions. Enjoy a stroll around the town’s galleries
and quality art and craft outlets, showcasing the best of local product and
souvenirs, or pack some adventure into your day with an optional shore
excursion.
Optional excursions include:
- Port Lincoln and Coffin Bay Highlights
- Local Food and Wine tour
- Shark Cage Diving
- Swimming with Tuna and Sea Lions
Sat 03 Feb 2018 - At Sea
rab a book, enjoy an onboard presentation or meet up with new found
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friends. The day is yours to enjoy onboard as we cruise along the south
coast of Australia.
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Lucky Bay, Esperance
Tue 06 Feb 2018 - Albany, Western Australia
Today we will dock alongside the wharf.
Kangaroo Island is a
veritable natural zoo of
wildlife, home to dolphins,
birdlife, koalas, and of
course Kangaroos.
Sun 04 Feb 2018 - At Sea
’Austral is renowned for her French flair, and exceptional onboard food
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and wine – enjoy a day at sea, and bask in the sheer luxury Ponant is
famous for.
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he first European settlers set foot in Albany, Western Australia and much
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of their legacy remains. Around 50 colonial buildings still stand and are
home to museums, galleries and restaurants, adding to the cities historical
charm.
Guests can follow a self-guided walking trail, encompassing almost two
centuries of history, discover convict prisons, whaling stations, quaint
cottages and grand historic residences.
Optional excursions include:
- Whaling Station and the National ANZAC Centre
- Tree Top Walk at Walpole
- Torndirrup National Park tour
- Great Southern Wine region
- Albany History and Denmark Wines tour
An overland option is also available from Albany. See page 13 for full
details.
Mon 05 Feb 2018 - Esperance, Western Australia
Wed 07 Feb 2018 - Busselton, Western Australia
This morning we shall anchor in Esperance. Guests will be taken ashore by
tender.
Today the ship will anchor in Busselton, where guests will be transferred
ashore by either zodiac or tender.
sperance is blessed with untouched islands, crystal clear waters and the
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whitest of sandy beaches, Lucky Bay. A nature lover’s paradise, Esperance
offers wonderful day tours exploring the beauty of the region. The Glass
and Artisan gallery is a perfect stop off for souvenirs and local artwork.
wice voted top tourism town of Western Australia, guests can enjoy a
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stroll along the historic 1.8km timber jetty – jutting far into the turquoise
waters of the Indian Ocean, or browse the local designer homewares,
fashion and antiques along the main street.
Optional excursions include:
- Cultural Tour of Cape Le Grand National Park
- Esperance Highlight tour
- Scenic helicopter flight over the Bay of Isles
Busselton was established as one of Western Australia’s first settlements.
Step inside the Busselton Museum, Old Courthouse or the beautiful St
Mary’s Church and be transported back to the 1800’s. The modern ArtGeo
Gallery and Courthouse proudly displays artwork by local artisans.
Optional excursions include:
- Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse and Ngilgi Cave
- Margaret River winery tours
Broome
Busselton
Fremantle
HMAS Sydney Memorial, Geraldton
Thu 08 Feb 2018 - Fremantle, Western Australia
Sun 11 Feb 2018 - At Sea
L’Austral will dock alongside the wharf today.
Continue to cruise the waters of the Indian Ocean, along the west coast of
Australia. This is your time to sit back and reflect on the wonderful days
past, and look forward to new discoveries yet to be had. Enjoy a day at
sea. Fremantle is an eclectic and vibrant city, blending maritime, convict and
colonial history of the 19th Century, with lively bars, restaurants and
markets of today’s era.
day can easily be whisked away strolling the streets of “Freo” as it is
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affectionately known. Shopping is in abundance with local boutiques, high
street fashion, homewares stores and Aboriginal art all available.
Mon 12 Feb 2018 - Turquoise Bay, Western Australia
he Western Australian Maritime Museum, the World Heritage listed
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Fremantle Prison and Western Australia’s oldest public building, the
Roundhouse are all worth a visit for some local history and knowledge.
nown as one of Western Australia’s best beaches, guests can swim and
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snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Turquoise Bay straight off the beach.
Fringing Ningaloo Reef, the rich diversity of coral, fish and marine life make
this the perfect spot to enjoy.
Optional excursions include:
- Fremantle Highlights tour
- Rottnest Island tour
- Perth Highlights tour
Anchoring in the waters of Turquoise Bay. Guests will be transferred
ashore by zodiac or tender.
Snorkel equipment will be provided for your enjoyment.
Fri 09 Feb 2018 - Geraldton, Western Australia
Optional excursions include:
- Yardie Creek Boat tour
- Cape Range National Park tour
Today the ship will anchor and guests will be transferred ashore by tender.
Tue 13 Feb 2018 - Arrive Broome, Western Australia (overnight)
eraldton is a water enthusiast’s paradise, a keen spot for surfing, diving
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and snorkelling. Located on the stunning Batavia Coast, Geraldton also
offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in its rich heritage.
Learn about the Yamaji Tribe, discover the stories of local shipwrecks or
tour to the HMAS Sydney Memorial site.
Optional excursions include:
- Abrolhos Scenic Flight tour
- Geraldton History and Highlights tour
Sat 10 Feb 2018 - At Sea
A chance to relax after your busy days sightseeing. Enjoy a day at sea.
Dock alongside Broome Wharf for an overnight stay.
here is much to see and do in the pearling Capital of Australia. Gateway
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to the Kimberley wilderness and home to famous Cable Beach, this remote
Western Australian town is a melting pot of cultures and history.
he discovery of pearls in the 1800’s saw a mass migration as pearl
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divers from around the world arrived to seek their fortune. Spend your day
learning about the commercial harvesting of this valuable jewel of the sea.
Optional excursions include:
- Willie Creek Pearl tour
- Morning or Sunset Camel Ride – Cable Beach
- Broome Town tour
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Bungle Bungles
Fri 16 Feb2018 - At Sea
Down time after a busy few days of adventure is the order of the day.
Enjoy a day at sea.
Sat 17 Feb 2018 - Wyndham, Western Australia
Today the ship will be berthed alongside Wyndham Wharf.
The natural phenomenon
of the Horizontal Falls
is only witnessed by a
select few. Make sure you
are one of the lucky ones.
Wyndham town is known for the Big Crocodile and giant Boab trees. An 18
metre sandstone croc welcomes visitors to the town, and is also home to
the largest living crocodile in captivity.
yndham is the gateway to some of Australia’s most spectacular outback
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country. This remote frontier town is nestled on the banks of the
Cambridge Gulf, at the base of Mount Bastion. Five Rivers Lookout offers
panoramic views of the town, port, marshlands and meeting points of the
King, Pentecost, Durack, Forrest and Ord rivers.
Optional excursions include:
- Ord River Cruise
- Scenic flight over the Bungle Bungles
- Fly, drive, walk Bungle Bungle tours
Please note that all tours in Wyndham will be weather dependant.
Wed 14 Feb 2018 - Depart Broome, Western Australia
Sun 18 Feb 2018 - At Sea
This morning enjoy time onboard, or a last minute stroll around Broome.
L’Austral will set sail at lunchtime.
ducational seminars, a day to relax or visit the onboard spa? The day is
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yours as you enjoy a day at sea.
Thu 15 Feb 2018 - Talbot Bay, Western Australia
Mon 19 Feb 2018 - Fursui, Pl Selaru, Indonesia
Today we shall anchor offshore.
ll guests will have an included tour by zodiac to the amazing Horizontal
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Falls and Cyclone Bay. There are only two horizontal falls on Earth, both
located in Talbot Bay in the Buccaneer Archipelago in North West Australia.
ery few people are privileged enough to experience the natural wonder of
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this spectacle. Camera’s need to be at the ready today. It is guaranteed to
be awe inspiring.
Optional scenic flights may be possible.
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Today L’Austral will be anchored, and guests transferred ashore by zodiac
for a wet landing.
njoy the morning strolling around the Indonesian Island of Selaru. As a
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result of minimal commercial activity, this remote island has preserved its
peaceful isolation and beautiful beaches.
wimming in the idyllic waters and relaxing on the beach will be enjoyed
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today.
Darwin
Boab Trees, Wyndham
Tue 20 Feb 2018 - Darwin, Northern Territory
Today the ship will be berthed at Fort Hill Wharf.
Cape York
Optional excursions include:
- Green Hill Fort tour
njoy a day strolling around the city, discovering local markets, waterfront
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restaurants, art precincts and tropical parklands. Darwin is diverse and
colourful, multicultural and rich in Australian heritage. ’Austral anchors at Cape York Peninsula later today, guests will be
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transferred ashore by zodiac for a wet landing at Frangipani Beach.
Optional excursions include:
- Kakadu Scenic flights
- Darwin Floatplane Adventure
- Fogg Dam
Sun 25 Feb 2018 - At Sea
Enjoy a walk to the ‘Tip’ of Australia at Cape York.
day at sea will be enjoyed by all as we navigate the warm waters of Far
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North Queensland.
Please note that all tours in Darwin will be weather dependant.
Wed 21 Feb 2018 - At Sea
Enjoy a day at sea as the journey continues around our Island Continent.
Thu 22 Feb 2018 - Yirrkala, Northern Territory
Today guests will be transferred ashore by zodiac.
irrkala is a unique indigenous community in Arnhem Land. An included
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visit to this area features a Welcome to Country ceremony, traditional
demonstrations and a visit to the amazing Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Art
Gallery, where guests can meet the artists and purchase museum standard
indigenous art.
Meaning of BukuLarrnggay “the feeling on
your face as it is struck
by the first rays of the
sun (i.e. facing East).”
Fri 23 Feb 2018 - At Sea
Mon 26 Feb 2018 - Lizard Island, Queensland
Relax, recharge and rejuvenate onboard L’Austral with a day at sea.
Today guests will be transferred ashore by zodiac for a wet landing.
Sat 24 Feb 2018 - Thursday Island and Cape York, Queensland
“ Lizard” as it is colloquially known by the locals, is a unique destination,
located on the spectacular Great Barrier Reef, boasting 24 white powdery
beaches and its own coral reefs. Wild Turtles also call this island paradise
home.
Anchor at Thursday Island. Guests will be transferred ashore via tender.
stroll ashore on Thursday Island displays the difference in cultures
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between the indigenous Australians previously visited, and the Torres Strait
Islanders, whose culture and lifestyle have evolved from generations by the
sea.
Head ashore for snorkelling, swimming or guided walks.
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Whitehaven Beach, Whitsunday Island
Tue 27 Feb 2018 - Cooktown and Port Douglas, Queensland
Fri 02 Mar 2018 - At Sea
L’Austral will anchor today and guests will be transferred ashore by zodiac
or tender.
hether you are relaxing in your favourite nook onboard, or appreciating
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the company of fellow guests, L’Austral offers a wealth of delights as you
enjoy a day at sea.
troll ashore in historic Cooktown. Found by Captain James Cook when the
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HMS Endeavour hit a reef in 1770, it then became a thriving port during the
gold rush era.
Optional excursions include:
- Cooktown Highlights tour
An Optional Overland Excursion tour from Cooktown to Port Douglas via
Cape Tribulation and the Daintree, re-joining L’Austral in Port Douglas is
available today. See page 13 for full details.
his afternoon and early evening we will anchor in Port Douglas, guests to
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be transferred ashore by tender or zodiac.
njoy an afternoon in the sophisticated bar and restaurant scene of Port
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Douglas, a spot of shopping or relaxing on Four Mile Beach in the heart of
the town.
Wed 28 Feb 2018 - At Sea
Enjoy a day at sea and bask in the warm tropical weather of Queensland.
Thu 01 Mar 2018 - Hamilton Island, Queensland
Anchor today in the crystal waters off Hamilton Island. Guests will be
transferred ashore by tender.
amilton Island is one of Australia’s most sought after holiday destinations,
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white sandy beaches, displaying a myriad of marine life and world class
golf courses.
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Sat 03 Mar 2018 - Fraser Island, Queensland
Anchor today in the balmy waters of Fraser Island. Guests will be
transferred ashore by tender.
raser Island is the world’s largest sand island, home to native dingoes
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and listed as a World Heritage Site. This diverse and stunning island offers
visitors an endless array of activity and sightseeing opportunities.
Guests will have access to Kingfisher Bay Resort.
Optional excursions include:
- Fraser Island tour
- Bush Tucker Talk and Taste tour
- Mangrove guided walk
- Bush tucker walk
Sun 04 Mar 2018 - At Sea
he Ponant French flair of food and wine, incorporated with the very best
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of regional Australian produce ensure your days at sea are a gastronomical
delight.
Mon 05 Mar 2018 - At Sea
s your holiday comes to an end, enjoy this last day onboard to reflect on
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the wonders of Australia and the highlights of your journey.
Guests will have access to Hamilton Island Resort.
Tue 06 Mar 2018 - Arrive Sydney, New South Wales
Optional excursions include:
- Whitehaven Beach tour
- Great Barrier Reef tour
- Scenic flights over Hamilton Island
After 40 magnificent nights discovering the best of regional Australia, it is
time to farewell your new found friends and L’Austral.
Disembarkation in Sydney will be this morning.