Sailing March 20, 2020 with Viking Ocean Cruises & Midwest Travel Solutions
KOMODO & THE AUSTRALIAN COAST
17 -day cruise visiting 2 countries & 11 ports and overnight in Darwin
Live small ship cruising aboard an intimate vessel while you discover the tropical and cultural splendors of the Indonesian archipelago and Australia’s legendary coast. Viking brings you face to face with the residents of these picturesque shores, from the astonishing Komodo dragon to good-natured Aussies. Experience the imagery and history of Bali, witness colorful traditions on Lombok Island and explore Komodo National Park with a trained naturalist. Experience the charms of Darwin with a local. Sail on the Great Barrier Reef and marvel at the cerulean beauty of the Whitsunday Islands. Uncover the cosmopolitan culture of the Gold Coast and Brisbane with a welcoming guide.
$500 deposit per person; final payment is not due until September 2019
Why Viking
- Every stateroom includes a Balcony
- One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call
- Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
- Multiple dining venues including alternative restaurant dining & daily afternoon tea (NO EXTRA CHARGES)
- Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances
- 24-hour room service
- Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
- 24-hour specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
- Access to top-rated spa & state-of-the-art fitness center
- Self-service launderettes
- Port taxes & fees
Set sail from Iconic Sydney Harbor
Sydney, capital of New South Wales and one of Australia’s largest cities, is best known for its harbourfront Sydney Opera House, with a distinctive sail-like design. Massive Darling Harbour and the smaller Circular Quay port are hubs of waterside life, with the arched Harbour Bridge and esteemed Royal Botanic Garden, miles of beaches, parks and world class dining. The city nestled at the foot of the Blue Mountains on the edge of the blue Pacific, Sydney is blessed with a natural setting few cities in the world can rival.
Our ship does not depart until 11:00 pm giving you a full day to explore this vibrant city and we will be able to see all the harbor lights as we set sail. Want more?
An exclusive offer from Midwest Travel Solutions – FREE Pre-Cruise Hotel – Must Deposit by December 31, 2018
Newcastle, Australia
Our first port is Newcastle situated at the mouth of the Hunter River. You will enjoy a scenic coastal drive, passing the old Fort Scratchley, the Newcastle and Merewether ocean baths, several picturesque parks and beaches, Queens Wharf and more. Alternately, experience the viniculture of Hunter Valley, stopping to sample some recent vintages.
Included Excursion: Picturesque Newcastle
Witness the golden sands, oceanside baths and spectacular vistas along Newcastle’s picturesque coast. This pristine corner of Australia boasts some of the most jaw-dropping vistas, as you will discover when you drive with your guide past Newcastle’s spectacular coastline, beaches and cultural venues. You will see the old hilltop Fort Scratchley, built in 1882 to guard against Russian attack; its guns remained unfired, however, until the shelling of Newcastle by a Japanese submarine on June 8, 1942. Enjoy free time to marvel at the innovative Newcastle and Merewether ocean baths—open air public pools fed by ocean water—and the Merewether Surfhouse, an all-glass restaurant perched over the water. Take a scenic drive along the coast en route back to your ship, stopping for photos at popular Nobby’s Beach—a spot that gained a place in local folklore when the bulk carrier Pasha Bulker ran aground during a storm in 2007.
Optional Excursion: Hunter Valley Wine Tasting
Savor the rich viticultural history of one of Australia’s major wine-producing regions. Hunter Valley has been home to some of Australia’s best vineyards since the early 1800s, making it Australia’s oldest wine region. Travel by motor coach on a scenic drive to your first destination, McGuigan Wines. Founded in 1992, the company is the second-largest vineyard in Australia and the only four-time winner of the prestigious International Winemaker of the Year award. Sample a selection of its wines before visiting the nearby Hunter Valley Cheese Company. Here, enjoy a tasting of five different specialty cheeses accompanied by crackers. Later, travel to neighboring Tulloch Wines. Founded in 1895, this family-run winery is now one of Hunter Valley’s premium labels. Learn about the vineyard’s interesting history—and how it came to be owned by the Tullochs as payment of an outstanding debt—and perhaps try a glass or two of their quality vintages.
Brisbane, Australia
Call on the capital of Queensland, Australia, today, situated on the Brisbane River and spread over hills rising from Moreton Bay. This picturesque city is known for its Queenslander architecture, a distinct style characterized by terraces and raised living spaces. A panoramic tour introduces you to its main sights, with ample opportunity to step out and take photos. See the historic Parliament House and Brisbane City Hall. Pass the botanical gardens and famed Wheel of Brisbane. And view the Cathedral of St. Stephen.
Brisbane & the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Meet Koalas and Other Australian Wildlife Up Close
Take in the panoramic sights of Brisbane before heading to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Your scenic drive takes you past Brisbane’s historic Parliament House, City Hall and other stately buildings before arriving at the sanctuary. Only 7.5 miles from the Brisbane city limits, the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary is set in a beautiful, natural environment and is home to more than 130 koalas and a menagerie of other exotic Australian wildlife. Meet dedicated keepers and learn about the wildlife research that takes place here. This is your chance to see some koalas and discover howyou can support koala food plantations. You will also hand-feed animals in the Kangaroo Reserve, which is home to around 150 free-ranging kangaroos and wallabies and also hosts emus and a wombat exhibit. Before leaving, you will watch a free-flying raptor demonstration. Enjoy your unforgettable close encounters of the natural kind.
Tastes of Tweed Valley
If you haven’t had enough gourmet dining on the ship, here is your chance to explore some local fare in the Tweed Valley during visits to a local farm and distillery. Located in the caldera of an ancient shield volcano, the valley’s fertile soil makes it the perfect place for growing produce. Stop in the village of Chillingham at Buck’s Farm, where you will be warmly welcomed by owner Gerard “Buck” Buchanan. Take a private tour of the farm with Buchanan and learn about its more than 40-year history of growing finger limes, Davidson’s plums, Buddha’s hands and more. Head to the base of Mt. Warning for a delicious lunch comprised of local products, then continue on to Husk Distillers. Located on the banks of the Tweed River, it is home to Ink Gin and Husk Rum—one of Australia’s only agricole rums. Join the owners on a tour of the sugar cane farm and distillery, then enjoy a tasting or two of their fine product.
The Spirits of the Red Sand Cultural Performance
Immerse yourself in Aboriginal history to gain perspective on how colonization affected Australia’s indigenous people. Based on historical events, Spirits of the Red Sand tells the moving story of three Aboriginal brothers—Jarrah (the narrator), Marlu and Muggera—who lived during Britain’s colonization of Australia in the 19th century. Set among meticulously reconstructed historical locations, including an authentic Aboriginal village, the performance brings its moving tale to life through dramatic storytelling; traditional songs, dances and chants help weave its story of life during this tumultuous time in Australian history. Adding to this compelling tale’s authenticity, all of the indigenous actors are direct descendants of Australian Aboriginal mobs, or families; their ancestors experienced many of the events depicted in the show. Following the performance, you will enjoy a delicious bush tucker–inspired Australian barbecue dinner and a dessert buffet before returning to your awaiting ship.
Whitsunday Islands (Hamilton Island), Australia
If you are not very familiar with Australia you may not have heard of the Whitsunday Islands, but it will sure to be one of the highlights of your trip. The 74 Whitsunday Islands lie between the northeast coast of Queensland, Australia, and the Great Barrier Reef, a massive stretch of coral teeming with marine life. Most of the islands are uninhabited. They’re characterized by dense rainforest, hiking trails and white sand beaches. Home to one of the finest and most exclusive resorts in Australia Qualia – This morning, anchor in Cid Harbor off Whitsunday Island. This dazzling canvas of turquoise waters, emerald hills and pure-white shores is home to countless inviting beaches. Disembark today to wade in the soothing waters and relax on soft sands amid this paradisiacal setting. Or join a sailing expedition among the dazzling Whitsundays on a catamaran.
Included Excursion: Whitsunday Island Beach Outing
Indulge in the white sand and turquoise waters of one of the finest beaches in Australia. Tender to Whitsunday Island and enjoy a day at leisure to explore this tropical island paradise. You may choose to ride the shuttle bus to one of the island’s lookout points for panoramic views, or take a self-guided walk in nature. At the beach, lay back and bask in the sunshine or find some shade under one of the many trees. Ample recreational equipment will be available for hire; paddle through the bay on a kayak, ride the waves on a jet ski or head out for a swim and snorkel. Or you can simply stroll along the beach, or spend the time reading a favorite book. Your time in paradise is yours to relish.
Townsville, Australia
Townsville, North Queensland. A city tour introduces you to the beloved old architecture of this seldom visited coastal city. You will also see the Strand, pride of the locals, a long stretch of tropical beach lined with gardens. And visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland, featuring relics from the HMS Pandora, the sunken British warship. If you prefer, you can venture into the bush to pay a visit to the Nywaigi Aboriginal people at a cattle station. The Reef HQ Aquarium has marine life and coral from the Great Barrier Reef, plus a sea turtle hospital. Southeast of the city, the Billabong Sanctuary wildlife park is home to koalas, wombats and crocodiles. Offshore, Magnetic Island has coral reefs and a national park full of wildlife.
Included Excursion: An Inviting Urban Seaside Haven
Get to know this culturally rich city on Australia’s northeastern coast—North Queensland’s unofficial capital. Meet your guide and drive through Townsville, admiring its mix of old and new architecture along the way. Arrive at Castle Hill viewpoint, a pink granite monolith that dominates the city’s skyline. Here, enjoy sweeping vistas of the city before heading back into Townsville. Continue your sightseeing drive, passing city landmarks such as the Strand, a popular 1 1/2-mile long shoreline development lined with walkways, restaurants and cafés. Enjoy free time at the Strand, whose long strip of tropical beach and lush gardens make it a favorite place for locals to walk and jog, before returning to your ship.
Optional Excursion: See the Great Barrier Reef from Above and Spend Time on a Secluded Island (I will have a hard time not choosing this one). Enjoy or be a bit exhilarated on your helicopter flight over the Great Barrier Reef and discover pristine marine wonderlands. Head to Orpheus Island where you will be greeted by the island’s staff and enjoy a chef-prepared gourmet picnic lunch. Beachcomb the pristine coastline, which stretches for more than six miles. Snorkel off the beach among stunning coral gardens and schools of fish, or indulge in a memorable diving experience by taking a charter boat to one of the reefs surrounding Orpheus and its neighboring islands. While snorkeling, keep an eye out for green turtles, manta rays and reef sharks in one of the region’s most diverse and unspoiled coral reefs. The underwater world is teeming with fish in an amazing array of colors. Enjoy another flight over the Palm Island archipelago as you make your way back to Townsville.
Mungalla Aboriginal Cattle Station
Discover the complicated history behind indigenous people and European settlers at a rural cattle station. The Mungalla Aboriginal cattle station was established by James Cassady, an Irishman who immigrated to Australia in the 1880s. At a time when confrontations between settlers and Aborigines were often brutal, Cassady’s ranch was a safe haven for the local Nywaigi population. Today, the ranch is run by the Nywaigi Aboriginal Land Corporation; its mission is to improve the economic and social position of its indigenous people. Take a guided tour of this working ranch, view artifacts and try your hand at throwing a boomerang. Learn about the history of the ranch and view a pictorial exhibit. Then, sit down to a traditional Aboriginal feast known as Kup Murri—a selection of meats, fish and vegetables cooked in an authentic underground pit oven. After, you will board your motor coach and return to your ship.
Magnetic Island Wildlife Explorer
Here is your chance to hold a Koala – but don’t fret, this is not your only chance, you are after all in Australia.
Explore terrain, history and wildlife during a panoramic tour of Magnetic Island. Townsville, embark by ferry into Cleveland Bay for a short cruise to this mountainous island, named for its reputed effect on explorer Captain James Cook’s ship’s compass when he sailed past it on June 7, 1770. Take a scenic guided motor coach tour along the island’s beautiful beaches and rugged bushland – you will find more than half of the island is a national park and bird sanctuary. Stop for sweeping views, beautiful vistas and marvel at Horseshoe Bay beachfront, then enjoy lunch. Later, encounter native wildlife on a guided tour of Bungalow Bay Koala Village; here, you may hold a koala or pat a baby wombat!
Cairns, Australia
Pronounced Cains, for the life of me I cannot figure out why the “R” is there. Cairns is a major sugarcane and fishing port, and most famous for being the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Take in the major sights of Cairns on a city tour, featuring a stop at its historic Royal Australian Navy base, Cairns Botanic Gardens and Palm Cove, a quaint, beach-loving community. Or perhaps board a catamaran for an exciting sail to the magnificent reef, the largest continuous system of its kind on Earth, or join an excursion to the lush Daintree Rainforest. With so much to do you will have a hard time deciding!
Optional Excursions:
A Magnificent Undersea World
Explore the largest marine preserve in the world during a Viking-chartered day excursion to the Great Barrier Reef. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, the reef stretches 1,400 miles and is home to an astonishing array of sea life, including some 1,500 varieties of fish, 360 species of colorful hard corals and one-third of the world’s soft corals. To get there, embark on an hour-long journey on our privately chartered catamaran. The protected reef sites you visit will depend upon the conditions of the day, but you will have ample opportunity to snorkel in turquoise waters with a guide or on your own, marveling at a rainbow of color and white coral sand below. If you wish, you may join a glass-bottom boat tour with a marine naturalist.
Jungle Train, Kuranda & Skyrail
Experience Kuranda National Park’s tropical rainforest and rich culture, exploring the forest and a local village. The park is home to extraordinary biodiversity and a rich profusion of wildlife. Meet your guide and head to Kuranda via the breathtaking 75-minute Kuranda Scenic Railway, passing plummeting waterfalls and lush forests and traversing tunnels carved into mountainsides. Upon arrival, spend time at a quaint Kuranda village to have lunch on your own, browse craft markets, follow hiking trails or visit some of the village’s other points of interest. Later, board the remarkable Skyrail, a cable car spanning about 4.5 miles over the pristine forest. Enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside and mountain ranges and glimpse life in the treetops, disembarking at stations along the way to explore the forest at ground level.
Connect to the Ways of an Ancient Culture with Daintree Dreaming
Immerse yourself in an authentic Aboriginal cultural experience amid the pristine beauty of Daintree National Park.Drive with your guide to the Kuku Yalanji Cultural Habitat in the park. At Cooya Beach, meet the Kubirri Warra brothers who keep Aboriginal traditions alive. As you follow them on a two-hour walk along the golden-sand coastline, they demonstrate how to throw a spear and hunt for fish, mud crabs and mussels. Learn about bush tucker and medicines while sampling homemade damper, soda bread cooked over hot coals. Later, explore the Janbal Gallery, where artist-in-residence Binna shares her work and insight into the Dreamtime and her culture’s animals and stories. You may create your own work of art using traditional techniques. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the rainforest, then join a guided walk in a pristine environment with the opportunity for a refreshing dip in Mossman River.
I did warn you that this port offered many activities to choose from!
Thursday Island, Australia
Explore Thursday Island today, just off the northernmost tip of Australia’s Cape York Peninsula in the Torres Strait. Thursday Island is a small island of just a few miles square and a small population of only just over 2500. This picturesque island is home to a thriving artistic community. You will have time to explore on your own today, and perhaps discover the history of the island’s defense during a visit to Green Hill Fort.
Included Excursion: Indigenous Culture of Torres Strait
Take a short walk from the pier to the Bayo Blue gallery, a center focused on traditional artwork and culture-sharing by the Aboriginal people of the Torres Strait and Cape York region. Here, you will be met by a custodian, or Elder, who will perform the “Welcome to Country” ceremony—a greeting meant to introduce people to Aboriginal culture and history. Then, enjoy an outdoor dance show; immerse yourself in the rhythm of the dancers, drummers, singers and rattles made from kulap seeds. Savor a delicious sampling of local delicacies, including freshly caught seafood and a mix of tropical fruit, bush kaikai and fresh coconut water. You will also have an opportunity to browse the gallery’s selection of artwork before bidding farewell to your hosts and walking back to your awaiting ship.
Darwin, Australia
Arrive today in Darwin, Australia, for an overnight stay. the cultural hub of what is known as the “Top End” of the continent for its northernmost location. A panoramic city tour reveals the highlights of the largest city in the thinly populated Northern Territory state. You will pass Christ Church Cathedral, the seven-gabled Government House and the Old Admiralty House. A stop at the East Point lookout reveals the coastal beauty of the Top End. If you would like, you can set out along the Adelaide River to view the area’s famed jumping crocodiles.
Included: Darwin City Tour
Enjoy a panoramic tour of one of Australia’s most successful and engaging multicultural cities. The largest city in the continent’s thinly populated Northern Territory, Darwin is a modern tropical capital with an intimate feel, set on a harbor twice the size of Sydney’s. Its colorful past will enrich your understanding on the Aussie spirit. You will meet your guide and drive into the city’s heart, passing by its diverse mix of colonial and modern buildings. You will see Christ Church Cathedral, a stunning octagonal church of pointed arches. View the Government House, the oldest European building in the Northern Territory and home to its administrator. And drive by the Old Admiralty House, once a government office and now a restaurant. You will also head to the lookout point at East Point Reserve to take in sweeping views of Australia’s Top End, the Timor Sea and Darwin Harbor.
Optional Excursions: Dine with Crocodiles
After the sunsets enjoy Privileged Access to Crocosaurus Cove
Enjoy an exclusive evening with Australia’s iconic predator during an after-hours visit to Crocosaurus Cove. The park will open its doors to Viking guests for an up-close encounter with saltwater crocodiles—the largest living reptiles on Earth.
These ancient animals can grow to be up to 20 feet in length and weigh more than 2,000 pounds. Upon arrival, enjoy a welcome drink and canapés while learning more about Australia’s wildlife as animal handlers circulate with baby crocodiles and other reptiles. After dinner, you will have an opportunity to explore the park in more detail or just observe the crocodiles, snakes and lizards before transferring back to your awaiting ship.
Ultimate Outback Experience
Journey by Seaplane, Boat and Airboat Through Pristine Wetlands to explore the natural beauty of Australia’s wilderness by plane and boat during a journey to scenic Sweets Lagoon. Your half-day excursion will give you an opportunity to encounter the endemic wildlife and pristine landscapes of Australia’s Northern Territory. Take off from Darwin on board your seaplane for a panoramic flight to the lagoon, where you will make a spectacular water landing. Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise on the lagoon—and an invigorating airboat tour through the wetlands and ancient monsoon rainforest. This forest is home to a variety of animals, including flying foxes, bats and bird species such as the yellow oriole and great bowerbird. You will also savor a delicious barbecue-style lunch and the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in a crocodile-safe pool.
Discover native wildlife and gain insight into the habitats of Northern Australia at Territory Wildlife Park. You will see wildlife up close in their natural habitats, meet them as you walk through treetop aviaries, and stroll around a natural lagoon and get up close during interactive presentations. Nestled on nearly 1,000 acres of natural bushland, the park offers over 4 miles of walking trails that pass through abundant woodlands, lush wetlands, and tropical forests. You will have the chance to see kangaroos, wallabies, tropical birds, dingoes and crocodiles, and visit the park’s many fascinating exhibits at your leisure. For your convenience, free shuttle trains run continuously between sheltered pick-up points located at the entrance to each exhibit.
Komodo, Indonesia
Anchor among the stunning vistas of Indonesia’s Komodo Island. You will go ashore to visit Komodo National Park and the Tamarind Woods, a magnificent menagerie of wildlife including the legendary Komodo dragon, the largest lizard in the world. These patient hunters can grow up to ten feet long and weigh as much as 275 pounds. You might also see the island’s Timor deer, wild horses and boars and giant fruit bats. Komodo National Park covers the entire region and is home to more than 4,000 dragons, and is made up of rusty-red volcanic hills, savannah and forests. Its surrounding waters of seagrass beds, mangrove shrublands and coral reefs are famous for diving. If you wish, don a snorkel and mask and explore the vibrant underwater world at Pink Beach.
Lombok
Call on the port of Lembar on the Indonesian island of Lombok. Journey to the foot of Mt. Rinjani, the nation’s second tallest volcano, to the town of Senggigi. Here, you can spend the day relaxing on the island’s best beach, stretching several miles along a green and lush coast. This resort town is quite young, making your leisurely visit an uncrowded affair. Alternately, you can tour the island’s capital of Mataram, renowned for its pearl shops and excellent artisans. Or explore two of the island’s craft villages, where wood-carvers and potters keep rich traditions alive.
Included Excursion: Soft Sands, Lilting Surf and Rich Culture
Relax into the Lombok lifestyle when you visit one of its most casual and leisurely beach communities. You will transfer with your escort to Senggigi Beach, passing through the island’s capital of Mataram, a diverse city of the indigenous Sasak people who have called Lombok home for centuries. Once you arrive in Senggigi, you will enjoy about three hours on your own to stroll some of the six miles of superb white-sand beaches, dip your toes in the warm waters or go for a swim in refreshing and crystalline waters. Explore the shops and businesses along High Street, perhaps stopping for a snack or a drink at one of its cafés or beach resorts and striking up a conversation with a local or fellow beach lover over an Indonesian brew.
Bali
Hinduism is the predominate religion and is bound into its ancient culture. Exotic temples and palaces set against stunning natural backdrops are common throughout the region. Businesses, homes, religious sites and agricultural are intermixed with not clear lines gives the country an eclectic feel. Inland, towering volcanoes and pristine jungles greet you with plenty to see and do.
Your flight will depart Denpasar, Bali. The city offers plenty of options to explore, do a bit of shopping, relax on a tranquil beach or head out to the nearby Pura Blanjong Temple contains a stone pillar with a 10th-century inscription. Visit the Bali Museum displays a large collection of Balinese cultural artifacts, including traditional costumes and religious items.
Or take a full-day tour that can get you into the countryside to see iconic Pura Tanah Lot, Bali’s most photographed temple, situated in the midst of the Indian Ocean, Ulun Danu and Taman Ayun or take a tour of Ubud and see the monkeys living that inhabit this area.
I hope you can join me on this remarkable once in a life time journey that offers so much to explore. Looking for a brochure or more information, please call or text Kerry at Midwest Travel Solutions 816-801-8558.