Sydney, Australia - The whole world's in love with Sydney. It's stylish, it's sophisticated, it's home to some of the friendliest people on the planet. And yes, a few koalas, if you know where to look. What's not to love? This gateway to the Outback has it all: endless outdoor adventure around the harbor or in spots like the Blue Mountains. Golden sandy beaches named Bondi, Bilgola and Coogee (which are not only beautiful, but also fun to say). A bustling art and entertainment scene. Countless museums, galleries and world-class restaurants where the dishes go way beyond the local Vegemite.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Brisbane, Australia - The cool and casual capital of Queensland offers all the glitz and glam of a big city without the big city airs. Located on the banks of the Brisbane River and surrounded by rolling hills, this urban oasis sure is easy on the eyes. Whether you're headed uptown, downtown or out of town, you'll be sure to encounter your fair share of first-ever experiences. Scale the legendary Story Bridge, take a sandboarding tour on North Stradbroke Island. Or if you'd like to connect with your inner Aussie, try your hand at sheep shearing at the Australian Woolshed.

Willis Island, Australia - Willis Island, located east of Australia just beyond the Great Barrier Reef, is the only permanently inhabited island in Australia's Coral Sea Islands Territory. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has a weather monitoring station on the island, staffed by three people, who make up the island's human population. Thousands of masked, brown and red footed boobies - a seabird that looks like a dressed up seagull - keep them company.

Port Douglas, Australia - Fishing village charm meets aquatic amusement and jungle intrigue in Port Douglas. And if you think this sounds like the perfect setting for your Australian adventure, wait 'til you experience it firsthand. Take a dip in the warm tropical waters. Sip a fruity drink at one of the many seaside cafes. Or relish the heart-pumping thrill of reef, river and rain-forest exploration.

Cairns, Australia - When you're in the city of Cairns, the islands, rainforest and reef of tropical North Queensland are never too far away. Take the opportunity and snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef, a remarkable diving site filled with vibrant coral islands and marine life. Enjoy the oceanfront energy of the Cairns Esplanade and browse the restaurants, shops and bars. Feel the adrenaline pumping as you white-water raft down the nearby rivers and take in the natural beauty as you travel to the butterfly-fringed village of Kuranda. Don't miss a day trip to the magical Daintree Rainforest, considered the planet's oldest surviving tropical rainforest.

Airlie Beach, Australia - The town of Airlie Beach, often referred to as the "Gateway To The Whitsundays", radiates a certain bohemian charm, with a blend of cosmopolitan and contemporary Australian style. Facing north on the eastern coast of Australia, Airlie Beach is blessed with late afternoon sun in the winter and cool, refreshing breezes in the summer. The coastal village of Airlie Beach serves as the ideal launching pad to explore the majestic Whitsunday islands, vast areas of untouched natural forests and the idyllic Great Barrier Reef.

Newcastle, Australia -

Named for England's famous coal port, Newcastle was developed in the 19th century by dangerous convicts sent to work the coal mines and timber forests. Today, a Newcastle cruise offers stunning surf, a relaxed urban atmosphere, and a gateway to Australia’s wine country.

Near the port, stroll 200 years of local history, visiting Customs House, now a restaurant and bar; Watt Street, with buildings from the convict era; and Christ Church Cathedral, which still dominates the skyline.

Learn about local culture at Newcastle Museum, in the central business district. Collections include Fire and Earth, about the hot and heavy industrial era; Link Gallery, which houses large exhibits like an 1870 locomotive and an 1890 pipe organ; and Newcastle Story, where you can explore Aboriginal life and the pioneering Novocastrians (Newcastle folks).

For military history-and breathtaking Pacific views-venture out to 19th-century Fort Scratchley. There you can also relax on the sunny beaches for which Newcastle is famous in surfing circles-Nobbys Beach, Bar Beach, and Merewether Beach.

To meet rare local animals-koalas, wombats, diamond pythons, blue-tongued lizards, and such-head west to Blackbutt Reserve, occupying 450 acres of natural bushland, nature trails, and wildlife exhibits. Discover inland Hunter Valley, one of Australia's pioneering wine regions. Hunter Valley sémillon is the iconic wine of the region, which also produces wines from Syrah, chardonnay, and cabernet sauvignon grapes.

When it's time for a break, have a drink and savor a delicious meal in one of the many hip bars, cafés, and restaurants of Newcastle City Centre.

Shopping? If your cruise to Newcastle arrives on the first or third Saturday of November or December, don't miss the contemporary handmade art and design and artisan produce at Olive Tree Market, in Civic Park.