Seabourn Oceania: 30 nights from Sydney with Seabourn Quest
Jan 19, 2026

Melbourne

Historical Tapestry

Rich in history, Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, was established in 1835 and quickly prospered during the Victorian gold rush of the 1850s, becoming one of the world's largest and wealthiest cities of its time. This period left an indelible mark on the city's architecture, with grand Victorian buildings still dominating the streetscapes. Melbourne's historical narrative is also deeply interwoven with the stories of the Aboriginal peoples, the traditional owners of the land, offering a complex and enriching cultural heritage to discover.

Varied Climate

Melbourne is famous for experiencing "four seasons in one day," thanks to its temperate oceanic climate. This weather pattern adds to the city's charm, offering warm to hot summers, mild springs and autumns, and cool winters. Such diversity encourages visitors to enjoy a wide range of activities throughout the year, from summer festivals to cozy winter markets.

Cultural and Natural Attractions

As a city celebrated for its culture, Melbourne is brimming with attractions. The arts and coffee culture here are unparalleled, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cafes at every turn. Sports enthusiasts will find a haven in the Melbourne Cricket Ground, while nature lovers can explore the Royal Botanic Gardens. For those interested in wildlife, the Melbourne Zoo offers close encounters with Australian and exotic animals. The city's bustling laneways and arcades also provide a unique shopping and dining experience.

Exquisite Culinary Scene

Melbourne's culinary landscape is a reflection of its multicultural population, offering an array of exquisite flavors from around the globe. The city takes pride in its quality coffee, vibrant food markets like the Queen Victoria Market, and a plethora of dining options ranging from street food to high-end restaurants. Melbourne is also at the forefront of the farm-to-table movement, showcasing local Victorian produce in many of its eateries.

Gateway to the Seas

Embarking on a cruise from Melbourne opens up a world of possibilities. The city's state-of-the-art cruise terminal is your gateway to exploring the scenic beauty of Tasmania, the untouched wilderness of New Zealand, or the tropical paradises of the Pacific Islands. Starting your journey in Melbourne means beginning with an experience rich in culture, history, and gastronomy, setting the stage for an unforgettable maritime adventure.

Hobart

Hobart, on the southeastern coast of Tasmania, is the capital city of Tasmania, an island state of Australia. It's the second oldest capital city in Australia, after Sydney, and is known for its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and vibrant culture. All these attractions make the city a unique and appealing destination for visitors. Its location provides a picturesque setting with a mix of mountainous and waterfront views.

There, tourists have the opportunity to admire beautiful views and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. For this reason the city is considered the ideal destination both for nature and sport lovers. For example, Mount Wellington offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and sightseeing. Hobart is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and cultural events.

The city hosts several major events and festivals, such as the Taste of Tasmania, Dark Mofo, and the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. Hobart is a gateway for tourists exploring the rest of Tasmania, including destinations like Port Arthur, Bruny Island, and the wilderness of the West Coast.

Milford Sound

Oban

Timaru

Kaikoura

Picton

Napier

Auckland

Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand, which is located on the North Island. It got its start in 1840 and was named after George Eden, he was the first Earl of Auckland. Before Europeans showed up, the area was home to the Māori, New Zealand’s indigenous people. Key historical spots like Mount Eden and Maungakiekie are still super important to the Māori. The Māori have a bunch of myths and legends about Auckland. One such myth tells of a giant lizard, Taniwha, who supposedly lives in the Hauraki Gulf waters.

These tales are passed down through the generations and are a vital part of the local culture. Back in the 19th century, Auckland was a major port and trading center, which helped it grow fast. In 1865, the capital of New Zealand was moved to Wellington, but Auckland kept booming thanks to its strategic location and industrial potential. It’s called the "City of Sails'' because there are so many yachts in the Hauraki Gulf. Auckland has a bunch of museums and art galleries, like the Auckland Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery.

The city’s surrounded by gorgeous beaches, volcanic hills and dense forests. There are also several nature reserves and national parks nearby. Auckland’s cuisine is super diverse, reflecting its multicultural vibe. You’ll find restaurants serving Asian, European, Polynesian and Māori dishes. One of New Zealand’s national dishes is hangi, it’s a traditional Māori meal cooked in an earth oven. Meat and veggies are cooked in underground pits with hot stones, giving them a unique smoky flavor. Auckland is a major cruise hub for cruise tourism in the Pacific. The Port of Auckland sees a bunch of cruise ships heading out to the Pacific Islands, New Zealand’s coast and Australia. Popular cruise destinations include Vanuatu, Fiji and New Caledonia.

Cruises from Auckland offer not only luxury and relaxation on board but also a chance to see awesome landscapes and get a taste of New Zealand’s culture. Auckland is a city with a rich history, cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty, attracting tourists from all over the world with its cuisine, attractions and cruise opportunities.

Waitangi (Bay Of Islands)

Dravuni Island

Nuku Alofa

Aitutaki

Bora Bora

Papeete

Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia, it is located on the island of Tahiti. This city got its start back in the early 19th century. Its name means "water vessel" in the Tahitian language. The first European explorers, like Captain James Cook, visited Tahiti in the 18th century. Not long after, Papeete became an important trade and administrative center in the region. France established a protectorate over the island in 1842, making Papeete the capital of French Polynesia.

Papeete's vibe mixes Polynesian chill with French style. The city's famous for its wild festivals and traditional dances, like 'ori (Tahitian dance), which you'll catch at loads of cultural festivals. Polynesian mythology plays a significant role in the cultural life of Papeete, with many local legends having been passed down through the ages. One of the well-known myths is the legend of the god Tane, the creator of light, the sun and life (think of him like a South Pacific version of Ra from Ancient Egypt). These myths are reflected in the art and music of the region and remain an important part of Tahiti's cultural heritage. The Central Market of Papeete, or Marché de Papeete, is where the action's at. You can find fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, flowers and check out traditional Tahitian crafts and souvenirs.

Papeete has interesting museums, like the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the region. Don't miss the Polynesian Art Gallery to see the local artists' work. Surrounded by gorgeous lagoons and coral reefs, Papeete's a sweet place for water sports, like diving and snorkeling. And don't forget about the waterfalls and tropical forests nearby, they're totally worth checking out if you're into nature. It’s very beautiful! Papeete's cuisine is about mixing Polynesian and Seafood plays a central role in the local cuisine. One of the national dishes is poisson cru. It's fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with coconut milk, vegetables and spices. Papeete is a major port for cruise ships in the South Pacific.

The port always welcomes numerous cruise liners, offering passengers the chance to explore the city and its surroundings. Cruises departing from or stopping in Papeete often include itineraries through places like Bora Bora, Moorea and Huahine, so you can really soak in the beauty and culture of French Polynesia.

You can dive into unique landscapes and soak up the culture and history of the region. Papeete has history, cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a must-see place for anyone who wants to explore the magic of Tahiti and French Polynesia.

Moorea

Moorea is a volcanic island located in the South Pacific Ocean and it is part of French Polinesia. For its beautiful green hills surrounded by clouds and the sound of waterfalls crashing on the cliffs in the background, the Island is renowned worldwide for its idyllic landscape that is so reminiscent of the tropical landscapes described within various poems.

Strolling along the streets of the city center, thanks to its colorful houses and the various parks rich in lush vegetation and different species of animals, you will be immerse in a unique atmosphere. Do not think that all this can be experienced only in dreams, visiting this island is not only possible, but once there you will also have the opportunity to experience moments that you will never forget. Because of its natural landscape, Moorea offers a wide range of activities, such as scuba diving, which allows you to get a closer look at the coral reef and the species that inhabit it such as sharks, turtles and starfishes. If you are a sea lover, water sports are the best choice for you! The calm, crystal-clear waters of the island also make possible other activities such as outrigger canoes, paddle boarding, and kite boarding.

For nature and adventure lover, the best choice for you is riding an all-terrain vehicle to reach one of the highest points on the island to admire a breathtaking view of the lagoon. If, on the other hand, you are looking for the total relaxation, go to one of the many beaches along the coast where you can enjoy all the comfort and you can also take pictures that will make all your friends jealous! Due to its geographical location, the best way to reach the island is aboard a cruise ship. Choose a cruise that departs from Moorea Island or that has the island as a stop so you can enjoy the uniqueness of its landscape and attractions. What are you waiting for? Visit our website and choose the cruise that best suits your needs and requirements!

Papeete

Papeete is the capital of French Polynesia, it is located on the island of Tahiti. This city got its start back in the early 19th century. Its name means "water vessel" in the Tahitian language. The first European explorers, like Captain James Cook, visited Tahiti in the 18th century. Not long after, Papeete became an important trade and administrative center in the region. France established a protectorate over the island in 1842, making Papeete the capital of French Polynesia.

Papeete's vibe mixes Polynesian chill with French style. The city's famous for its wild festivals and traditional dances, like 'ori (Tahitian dance), which you'll catch at loads of cultural festivals. Polynesian mythology plays a significant role in the cultural life of Papeete, with many local legends having been passed down through the ages. One of the well-known myths is the legend of the god Tane, the creator of light, the sun and life (think of him like a South Pacific version of Ra from Ancient Egypt). These myths are reflected in the art and music of the region and remain an important part of Tahiti's cultural heritage. The Central Market of Papeete, or Marché de Papeete, is where the action's at. You can find fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, flowers and check out traditional Tahitian crafts and souvenirs.

Papeete has interesting museums, like the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the region. Don't miss the Polynesian Art Gallery to see the local artists' work. Surrounded by gorgeous lagoons and coral reefs, Papeete's a sweet place for water sports, like diving and snorkeling. And don't forget about the waterfalls and tropical forests nearby, they're totally worth checking out if you're into nature. It’s very beautiful! Papeete's cuisine is about mixing Polynesian and Seafood plays a central role in the local cuisine. One of the national dishes is poisson cru. It's fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with coconut milk, vegetables and spices. Papeete is a major port for cruise ships in the South Pacific.

The port always welcomes numerous cruise liners, offering passengers the chance to explore the city and its surroundings. Cruises departing from or stopping in Papeete often include itineraries through places like Bora Bora, Moorea and Huahine, so you can really soak in the beauty and culture of French Polynesia.

You can dive into unique landscapes and soak up the culture and history of the region. Papeete has history, cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a must-see place for anyone who wants to explore the magic of Tahiti and French Polynesia.