Day 55 - SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

 Date: 2/29/2024     Day 55                       Port: SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

Description: One of the liveliest, must-see cities of the Pacific Rim, Sydney humbly began life as a British penal colony in 1788. Among the colorful characters in its early history was William Bligh of Mutiny on the Bounty fame who was deposed as governor during the Rum Rebellion of 1808. In 1852, with the discovery of gold in the interior, Sydney became a thriving port of the Victorian Empire. Today, Sydney looks to the future, its skyline crowned by the graceful billowing sails of its famed Opera House. Visitors can get a glimpse of the past along the narrow, twisting streets of the Rocks, Sydney’s restored historical district and for the adventurous, the Sydney bridge climb will reward you with panoramic views of the city and harbor. Excursions can reveal the spectacular, untamed beauty of the Blue Mountains with a ride on the worlds steepest perpendicular railway; or get up close and personal with Australia’s charming wildlife at the Koala Park Sanctuary, then end your day with a refreshing stop at a traditional Aussie pub.

Planned Excursion: LEISURELY SYDNEY

2:45 PM 3.0 Hours           Light Activity      # SYD-010: Free

Take a step back in time during this memorable visit to The Rocks, Sydney's oldest village.

Depart the pier for the drive to The Rocks, situated in the shadow of the Harbour Bridge. Upon arrival, you will see the expert restoration of this area, and understand why its warehouses, taverns and authentic village green have become so popular with tourists. A visit will then be made to the city center, home of Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, Centerpoint Tower, the magnificent Queen Victoria Building, modern Darling Harbour Complex, and mystical Chinatown.

As you proceed east of the city, from Darling Point to Watson's Bay, you will take in spectacular vistas and photo opportunities of the shoreline fringed with vast mansions, expensive apartments, yachts and boats. You will also be able to view the sidewalk cafés and chic boutiques of Double Bay, and the magnificent city skyline from Watson's Bay.

Next, you will proceed to Bondi, Australia's world-famous surfing beach, along with the delightful cafés and restaurants lining the main street. Afterward, you will venture back into the city via the narrow streets of Paddington, which are lined with picturesque terrace homes framed with iron-laced balconies, sandstone houses, designer boutiques, art galleries, and cafes.

Following your tour, you will return to the pier and ship.

Today's Notes: After arriving just after 2 PM and going through immigration we boarded our tour bus. It was a lovely bus ride around town with a lot of commentary from our hostess.  We did hit most of the places described above with just a couple of photo stops.  

Click Here --> Sydney Pictures

Click Here --> Sydney Harbor Bridge Video

Took a lot of great video of our arrival passing under the Harbor Bridge in Sydney.