We have selected an outstanding vessel to take you on the adventure of a lifetime. The newly-launched 'Oceanic Princess' is a 63 metre luxury small ship, accommodating up to 76 guests in comfort. Enjoy a spacious stateroom with private bathroom, individual air-conditioning, delicious cuisine, and excellent service from the experienced and friendly crew. 

Day 1. Sat. Sydney, Broken Bay.
Board the 'Oceanic Princess' at 3.00 p.m. for a departure at 4.00 p.m. We cruise north to Broken Bay and you can take in the scenery from the sundeck as we farewell Sydney Harbour. You are invited to the Captain's Welcome Cocktails followed by a sumptuous seafood buffet. (D)

Day 2. Sun. Hawkesbury River Expedition.
Merry Christmas everyone! Today is our first excursion aboard our specially designed 'Xplorer'. We explore the lower reaches of the Hawkesbury River. Return to the 'Oceanic Princess' where a Christmas feast awaits. (BLD)

Day 3. Mon. Sydney Heads.
Regatta Day - Set sail for North Head where we join the spectacular start of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race. The 'Oceanic Princess' joins the armada of spectator craft as we cruise among the fleet of yachts making their way to Hobart. (BLD)

Day 4. Tue. Eden, Gabo Island.
We head ashore to explore the town of Eden. Then explore historic Boyd Town. Following a cruise south, we anchor at Gabo Island. Boarding the 'Xplorer', we head ashore for a walk to view the red granite lighthouse. (BLD)

Day 5. Wed. Flinders Island, Outer Sister Island.
In the morning we visit the historic areas of Emita and Wybalena. Our guest lecturers share the history of the Tasmanian Aboriginals and early whalers and sealers of this area. In the afternoon, we visit to one of the beautiful beaches Flinders Island is famous for. (BLD

Day 6. Thur. Tenth Island, Beauty Point.
View seals in their natural habitat at Tenth Island before heading to Beauty Point after breakfast. We visit Platypus House and Seahorse World, followed by an early lunch. Then visit a winery and lavender farm here, rejoining the 'Oceanic Princess' at Bridport in the late afternoon. (BLD)

Day 7. Fri. Musselroe Bay, Eddystone Point, Ansons Bay.
At Musselroe Bay, join an excursion to discover birdlife. Then travel to Eddystone Point and go ashore to explore Eddystone Lighthouse. This afternoon, we take an expedition to explore Ansons Bay. (BLD)

Day 8. Sat. Wineglass Bay, Schouten Island, Coles Bay.
We spend the morning at picturesque Wineglass Bay where you can walk the beach or visit the lighthouse. Head south to Schouten Island, watch the magnificent sunset from Coles Bay and head ashore to explore the pristine beach. (BLD)

Day 9. Sun. Maria Island, Port Arthur.
At Maria Island, view a wide range of wildlife. During the walk, we discover the ruins around Dartlington and visit spectacular Fossil Cliffs. This afternoon, visit Port Arthur, a magnificently preserved penal colony on the Tasman Peninsula and also home to stunning gardens. (BLD)

Day 10. Mon. Port Davey.
Arriving at Port Davey, we are deep within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. This area is fed by unrestrained rivers with no road access and little human impact. Join our expedition leader on the 'Xplorer' excursions which offers stunning views. (BLD)

Day 11. Tue. Bruny Island, Huon River.
We begin with a walk of discovery on Bruny Island. Witness breathtaking scenery through the rainforest. This afternoon, our final expedition is up the Huon River. This evening, celebrate with your new-found friends at the Captain's Farewell Cocktails. (BLD)

Day 12. Wed. Hobart.
Sail up the d'Entrecasteaux Channel between Bruny Island and the Tasmanian mainland and arrive in Hobart at 11.00 a.m. (B)

Cruise Content

• Accommodation charges on board
• Services of expedition staff, including lectures, briefings, slide/film presentations
• All meals on board
• Landing fees

Cruise Highlights

• Welcome Cocktails with the Captain
• Explore the fiord-like lower reaches of the Hawkesbury River
• Join the spectacular start of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race
• Discover the fishing town of Eden
• View the lighthouse on Gabo Island
• Learn the history of the Tasmanian Aboriginals on Flinders Island and visit beautiful beaches
• View seals on Tenth Island
• Visit a winery in the Tamar Valley
• Experience the beauty of Wineglass Bay
• Discover the amazing wildlife on Maria Island
• Wander among the restored ruins of the Port Arthur Historic Site and learn of Australia's harsh colonial history
• Explore Port Davey in the beautifully untouched and inaccessible Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area
• Witness breathtaking scenery at Bruny Island
• Cruise up the spectacular Huon River
• Enjoy Farewell Cocktails with the Captain

Departure Date:  24 Dec 2005

For air fares and related information please contact us.