Tuesday, February 27, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Brisbane, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
In Brisbane on the northeast coast of Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA
BEAUTIFUL PARKLANDS, BUSTLING LOCAL MARKETS, AND WATERSIDE DISTRICTS
The envied climate makes Brisbane a city of outdoor adventure activity and relaxation where days drift by surfing
rollers or relaxing in the shade of swaying palms.
While Brisbane may play second fiddle to Sydney and Melbourne at times it radiates a creative and contemporary
energy offering visitors a refreshing combination of laidback waterfront luxury and urban sophistication. Sandy
islands nearby provide scenic diving and oceanside relaxation opportunities while the city’s animal sanctuaries offer
opportunities to meet unbearably cute koalas and kangaroos.
Brisbane’s impressive skyline of metallic cylinders rises high above the broad Brisbane River below which curves lazily
through downtown. The rolling waves of the Pacific are close by but there’s something special about relaxing on soft
sand in the very heart of the city on the beautifully executed South Bank Parklands man-made beach. With golden
sand and shallow lagoon waters to cool off in it’s a dreamy spot to lie back with a book amid the landscaped gardens. Nestled in a river meander of its own Brisbane Botanic Park glows with colorful tropical plants and wading ibis birds and is easily walkable from the Parklands.
The South Bank is the cultural hub of the city and houses the celebrated Queensland Gallery of Modern Art – a surreal
and vibrant jaunt through contemporary Australian art. The city’s award-winning restaurants also serve up elite food
matched with generous splashes of wine directly from the nearby Granite Belt’s wine regions.
LONE PINE KOALA SANCTUARY
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is an 18-hectare (44-acre) koala sanctuary in the Brisbane suburb of Fig Tree Pocket in Queensland, Australia. Discover over 70 species of Australian native animals in a beautiful, natural bush setting at the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. Embrace the opportunity to cuddle a koala – each day at certain timings you’ll be given the chance to hold one of Australia’s iconic animals.
SIGHTS
- Brisbane City Botanic Gardens
- Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout
- Roma Street Parkland
- South Bank Parklands
- The Wheel of Brisbane
- Kangaroo Point Cliffs Park
- Story Bridge
- Queen Street Mall
Today’s Excursion – Brisbane Sights & Lone Pine Sanctuary
We toured the river city of Brisbane and met some of Australia’s native animals at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
Brisbane City Tour, Mount Coot-Tha
We had a panoramic drive exploring the city passing Parliament House, the Treasury Building, City Hall, and Old Customs House. We saw the South Bank Parklands and Cultural Centre, which combines the State’s Art Gallery, Performing Arts Complex, Museum, and library in a splendid riverside setting. We stopped at Mt Coot-tha, a favorite lookout point, for panoramic views of the city.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
We visited Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary, with over 130 Koalas. We got close to a koala and free-roaming kangaroos and wallabies, all in beautiful, natural settings. We enjoyed having a close encounter with a koala and a koala handler. We also saw other unusual animals such as the platypus, Tasmanian devil, emu, wombat, dingo, and echidna.
TONIGHT’S SHOW WITH PETER COUSENS
SONGS FROM THE MUSICALS AND MORE
Peter Cousens is an award-winning actor and singer, producer, director, and teacher/trainer of actors, singers, and singer-songwriters.
He has worked for most of the major theatre and opera companies in Australia, starring in many plays and musicals including Les Misérables, Aspects of Love, West Side Story, Miss Saigon, Show Boat, Fiddler on the Roof, Chicago, Sweeney Todd, The Convicts Opera (UK Tour), The Hatpin, Company, The Mikado, Macbeth, Hamlet, Measure for Measure, Nicholas Nickleby and as the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera in London’s West End.
Peter has recorded 5 solo albums and sings the role of Chris on the International Symphonic Recording of Miss Saigon.
As Artistic Director of the Nation Musical Theatre Company, Kookaburra Peter produced the musicals Company, Little Women, Tell Me On a Sunday, Pippin, and Songs for a New World and a range of cabaret and concerts. In the USA, he
directed the major international feature film Freedom starring Cuba Gooding Jnr. and William Sadler.
Peter is currently Artistic Director, of the Talent Development Project, which facilitates the development of emerging artists’ creative imagination and guides them toward professional careers in music and performance. Peter also teaches at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
He holds a Master of Arts (Creative Writing) CQU, and a Bachelor of Drama (Acting) NIDA is currently studying for a Juris Doctor at Canberra University. Peter is a Patron of Freedom Hub, an Artistic Ambassador for Central Queensland University, and an Australia Day Ambassador.
In 2019 Peter was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his services to theatre and the community.
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Monday, February 26, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Day at Sea En Route to Brisbane, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from Newcastle to Brisbane, Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Michael DiSpezio: Brisbane and Fraser Island
- Discover Brisbane’s metropolitan offerings in contrast to the natural setting of Fraser Island. Find out about dingoes and other critters we’re apt to observe
- Enrichment Lecturer with John Stanton: Steve Irwin – He Changed Our World
- The back story of how Steve Irwin was discovered by John Stainton and became “The Crocodile Hunter” – a worldwide household name
- Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Geoffrey Gray The Show Lounge (6)
- How has Brisbane grown from a sleepy tropical city to an Olympic city in a Generation – Brisbane together with the Gold and Sunshine Coasts is the fastest growing region in Australia and taking population from the South. This is Australia’s Sunbelt but facing growth pressures
- Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Reception The Show Lounge (6)
- Captain Michele Macarone Palmieri invites Guests to the Welcome Cocktail Reception and introduces our Senior Officers
- Dinner Special Feature: Secrets of the Sea
- Showtime! UK Artist “MOTOWN”
Enrichment Lecturer with John Stanton:
Steve Irwin – He Changed Our World
The back story of how Steve Irwin was discovered by John Stainton and became “The Crocodile Hunter” – a worldwide household name.
Enrichment Lecture with World Affairs Lecturer Geoffrey Gray
Brisbane has grown from a sleepy tropical city to an Olympic city in a Generation.
Brisbane together with the Gold and Sunshine Coasts is the fastest growing region in Australia and taking population from the South. This is Australia’s Sunbelt but it is facing growth pressures.
Dinner tonight was in The Restaurant
TONIGHT’S SHOW – MOTOWN
Silversea Vocalists Mya Boyd, Francesca Rimoldi, Luke Upton, and Lelo Twala in an upbeat, fast-paced performance featuring this iconic music style, alongside our Silversea Dancers with some stylish moves, and The Silversea Trio.
Sunday, February 25, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Newcastle, Australia
The didgeridoo is a wind instrument, played with vibrating lips to produce a continuous drone while using a special breathing technique called circular breathing. The didgeridoo has been played for at least 1,500 years, and is mostly associated with the Aboriginal tribes of Arnhem Land in Northern Australia.
Where in the World Are We?
In Newcastle on the East Coast of Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA
AUSTRALIA’S SECOND OLDEST CITY AND LOCALLY NICKNAMED NEWY
Before its ‘discovery’, Newcastle and the surrounding area were inhabited by the Awabakal and Worimi aboriginal
tribes who called the site ‘Malubimba’. But when Lieutenant John Shortland explored the area in September 1797, he
immediately noticed its immense mineral wealth, which was quickly exploited.
First Kingstown, then Coal River, then Kingstown again, and finally Newcastle, the place, before becoming a town, was
above all a camp – nicknamed Hell Hole – where the country’s most dangerous criminals lived and worked in the coal
mines and forestry operations. In 1822, the penal settlement was opened up to farmers, and the very rigid military
rules were lifted in 1823 when 900 of the 1,000 prisoners were transferred to Port Macquarie. It was from this date
that Newcastle began to develop as a ‘normal’ Australian town.
The economy grew around coal and Newcastle became a major industrial centre, eventually becoming the largest coal-exporting port in the world. Steel and shipbuilding also made the city famous, and it became known as Steel City.
Despite this industrial reality, today Newcastle is one of Australia’s hippest cities. Gentrification began when the steel
mills closed in 1999. Nowadays the old wharves and warehouses form part of the lively Honeysuckle precinct, which
buzzes with hotels, cafés, and restaurants. The town’s vibrant markets, galleries, artisans, and restaurants are brimming
with creativity in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that has become the town’s hallmark.
Flanked by the Pacific Ocean, six beaches on its eastern side, and a harbor on its west side, Newcastle has much to
offer the visitor in clean streets where parrots and pelicans replace pigeons. Beach lovers will be well catered for, mural
hunters will be in paradise, gourmets won’t want to leave and shopaholics will come back loaded.
NEWCASTLE OCEAN BATHS
Newcastle Ocean Baths is one of the city’s outstanding historic landmarks with its distinctive and architecturally significant Art Deco pavilion. The Ocean Baths were constructed and in use before World War One, though not formally opened until the 1920s. The baths’ popularity has never waned throughout the decades, and thousands of Novocastrians remember it
fondly as the place where they first learned to swim. Construction began in 1910 with the construction of the pavilion beginning in 1922.
SIGHTS
- Newcastle Memorial Walk
- Bogey Hole
- Newcastle Museum
- Blackbutt Nature Reserve
- Fort Scratchley
- Nobbys Beach
- Christ Church Cathedral
- Merewether Beach
TONIGHT’S SHOW – IAN COOPER
Ian Cooper began learning the violin from his mother at the age of four. His first live television appearance was at age 5 where he performed “The Two Grenadiers” by Schumann on Channel 7 Australia. He made his Sydney Opera House debut at age 6 and wowed audiences as a child star in the U.S.A., Canada, Britain, Europe, and Japan for NHK TV. At age 12 he performed with the Vienna Boys Choir in their hometown.
Ian was awarded a scholarship to the New South Wales Conservatorium of Music at age eight and continued his training there for the next ten years. He was commissioned to compose and perform the “Tin Symphony” for the opening ceremony of the 2000 Summer Olympic Games in Sydney, and has appeared with artists as diverse as James Morrison,
George Benson, John Farnham, Barry White, Andrea Bocelli, Neil Sedaka, and Olivia Newton-John.
Among his many live performance accolades, Ian was honored with a platinum ARIA Award – the Australian equivalent of the Grammys. He is also a qualified pilot, composes soundtracks for Discovery Channel, and is a keen yachtsman in his spare time.
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Saturday, February 24, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Sydney, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
In Sydney, Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
THE SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE: AN ICON OF THE CITY
Since its inauguration in 1973, the Sydney Opera House has caught the eye of the world thanks to its bold design.
Dreamt up by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this monumental building has quickly become an iconic symbol of Australia
and modern architecture. Its genesis dates back to the 1950s when the New South Wales government launched an
international competition to design a new opera house for Sydney. Of the 255 proposals received, that of Danish
architect Jørn Utzon was chosen. Construction began in 1959, but it was not without its problems. Technical challenges,
cost overruns, and political disputes marred the construction process, even leading to Utzon’s resignation in 1966 and
the resumption of the project by local architects. In the end, the building cost 102 million Australian dollars: a far cry
from the 7 million predicted in 1957, but paid for in full before 1975 by a public lottery.
An architectural masterpiece, the Sydney Opera House is made up of several white hulls in the shape of a sail or shell
that seem to float on the water, creating an instantly recognizable silhouette that has become emblematic of the city of
Sydney. These concrete shells are covered with more than a million self-cleaning white or beige ceramic tiles made in
Sweden. But the Sydney Opera House is first and foremost… an opera house and the building is home to several world-renowned theatres and is the headquarters of the Australian Opera House, the Sydney Theatre Company, and the Sydney
Symphony Orchestra.
When it was inaugurated in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II on 20 October 1973, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony was played, but this work was far from the first to be heard within its walls: during construction, from 1960 onwards, musical lunch breaks were scheduled for the workers.
Over the decades, the Sydney Opera House has become much more than just a place of entertainment. Today, it is a
symbol of Australian identity, a cultural landmark, and an economic driver for the region attracting millions of visitors
every year from all over the world to admire the work.
QUEEN VICTORIA BUILDING
The Queen Victoria Building (QVB) a heritage-listed late-nineteenth-century building contains a five-level shopping mall located in the heart of Sydney.
Opened in 1898, glorious stained glass windows and splendid architecture endure throughout the building and an original 19th-century staircase sits alongside a mighty center dome, consisting of an inner glass dome and an exterior copper-sheathed dome.
SIGHTS
- Darling Harbour
- Royal Botanic Garden
- Art Gallery of New South Wales
- Taronga Zoo Sydney
- Chinese Garden of Friendship
- Sydney Tower Eye
- Bondi Beach
Today’s Excursion – Sydney Sights, Opera House & Bondi Beach
We visited three icons of this one great city – its imposing skyline and city heart, its famous Bondi Beach, the Sydney Opera
House. We took in the history and stunning views and learned about the fashionable suburbs in the east of the city.
Sightseeing Drive
We departed the pier in White’s Bay for an orientation drive through the city to a visit to the Sydney Opera House, officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II on October 20, 1973, and one of Sydney’s most famous landmarks. We walked to the Sydney Opera House Forecourt – one of the world’s most spectacular views set below the famous white sails and the granite Monumental Steps.
The Rocks
We travelled through Sydney’s oldest village, The Rocks. This historic enclave is nestled in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and depicts the heritage of two centuries along its narrow twisting streets. We saw a splendid mix of Victorian-era buildings alongside modern-day structures.
Sydney Harbor
We continued east of the city to the most sought-after residential areas in Sydney. From Darling Point to Watson’s Bay,
the shoreline is fringed by vast mansions and expensive apartments overlooking a flotilla of yachts and cruising boats moored
along the harbor’s edge. We took in the spectacular views at The Gap at Watson’s Bay, the southern head of the entrance to Sydney Harbour.
Bondi Beach
We traveled on to Bondi Beach, a world-renowned surfing haven featuring delightful cafés and restaurants along its main streets.
We strolled along the famous promenade and enjoyed a coffee at one of the many cafés. We admired the views as we headed down the narrow streets of Paddington, which are lined with picturesque terraces framed with iron-laced balconies, sandstone houses, designer boutiques, art galleries, and cafés.
Destination Lecture with Lecturer Michael DiSpezio: Newcastle and an Introduction to Upcoming Cruising
We learn about Australia and what awaits us in Newcastle and beyond.
Plus, we were introduced to eye-in-the-sky imagery of our destinations using Google Earth Pro.
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Friday, February 23, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Sydney, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
In Sydney, Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
A VIBRANT CITY FULL OF CULTURAL SIGHTS AND EXCITING ATTRACTIONS TO EXPLORE
With its glorious harbor, lavish golden beaches, and iconic landmarks Sydney is Australia’s showpiece city. The creative
and the curious discover the world-class cuisine, indigenous culture, and irresistible beach life that make Sydney one of the
world’s most dynamic and exciting destinations.
Sydney’s sparkling harbor is the heart of a richly cultural city. Overlooked by the metallic curves of the masterpiece of
an Opera House and that grand arched harbor bridge. Take it all in from the water and admire the iconic landmarks
that are set before the city’s gleaming skyline backdrop. If you’re feeling adventurous take the legendary climb
up the smooth curve of the bridge – nicknamed the Coathanger – to soak in the shining city’s spread from a unique
perspective.
Spread out to tan on one of the world’s most famous stretches of sand – Bondi Beach. Restaurants and bars burble
away in the background while the sun beams down and surfers curl and leap over pure rollers. Swim in spectacular
salty ocean pools or wander the beautiful Bondi to Coogee coastal walk for more of this sun-gorged stretch of prime
coastline.
Leaving the thrills of Australia’s largest city behind is surprisingly simple – take to the skies to be flown above
skyscrapers and rippling ribbons of waves out to majestic peaks sheer cliffs and iconic rock formations – like the Three
Sisters of the Blue Mountains. Or drop in on wildlife sanctuaries caring for the country’s animals – from hopping
kangaroos to adorably cute cuddly koalas.
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
One of the most iconic and recognizable buildings in the world, and listed as a World Heritage site in 2007, the Sydney Opera House is a multivenue performing arts center and a unique architectural sight that wows more than 8 million visitors annually.
SIGHTS
- Mrs Macquarie’s Chair
- Sydney Harbour Bridge
- The Rocks
- Darling Harbour
- Queen Victoria Building
- Sydney Tower Eye
Today’s Excursion – Aussie Wildlife Express
We experienced the scenic natural beauty and wildlife of Australia during this half-day tour to Featherdale Wildlife Park, one of
Australia’s largest private collections of Australian native animals and bird life.
Featherdale Wildlife Park
Operating since 1972, Featherdale Wildlife Park houses a great variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, Australian reptiles, Tasmanian devils, wombats, and various species of Australian birds.
Billy Tea Break
On arrival at the park, we were offered a Billy Tea Break, an Aussie tea consisting of lamingtons, Anzac biscuits, and a vegemite
sampler. The Tea Break features a ‘Swaggie Talk’ which will give you a brief insight into some of our Australian traditions.
Australian Wildlife
After the tea break, we got up close and personal with the animals and hand-feed a kangaroo, a wallaby, and an emu. We saw could include dingoes, possums, owls, foxes, and Tasmanian Devils.
Circular Quay and Manly
After our exciting visit to the park, went to King’s Wharf and took the ferry to Circular Quay. Later, we took the ferry to Manly to meet a 20-year-old business friend at the Wharf Bar for a beer to catch up on the last 20 years.
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Thursday, February 22, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea En Route to Sydney, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing from New Zealand to Sydney, Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
Today’s Agenda Includes:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- “Odyssey – Art at Sea” Exhibition
- Enrichment Lecture with Lecturer Dina Gregson: The History of Champagne
- Enrichment Lecture with Lecturer Andrew Gregson: Whisky Business
- Pre-Dinner Showtime! – Silversea proudly presents “Kaleidoscope”
The ultimate indulgence – or a veritable necessity? Guest lecturer (and historian) Dina Gregson follows the rules of Madame Bollinger – she only drinks Champagne when she is happy or sad, when alone or with company, when hungry or not, and otherwise never touches it – unless she’s thirsty!
Our guest lecturer, Andrew Gregson, is a distiller from the rapidly emerging Australian whisky region of Tasmania. Join him to gain an understanding of the history of whisky, an insight into how it’s created, and the extraordinary global growth of this spirit
TONIGHT’S SHOW – A KALEIDOSCOPE OF KLASSICS
A kaleidoscopic catalog of classic artists, from Elvis to Elton, Whitney to Tina, and everything in between. Silversea Vocalists, Mya Boyd, and Luke Upton, with the Silversea Dancers, presented a show where were rocking and rolling in our seats, with something to satisfy everyone’s favorite musical shade.
Tonight’s Dinner was at the restaurant La Dame
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Wednesday, February 21, 2024 – Photo of the Day – At Sea En Route to Sydney, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
Sailing northwest from New Zealand to Sydney, Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
Today’s activities include:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Lecturer Linda Walker: Sydney, Australia
- Enrichment Lecturer with Lecturer Dina Gregson – The History of Coffee
- Enrichment Lecture with Lecturer Andrew Gregson: Cricket for Beginners
- Showtime! Silversea presents “Ami Williamson”
Dina Gregson presented “The History of Coffee”
Greg Williamson presented “Cricket for Beginners”
TONIGHT’S ENTERTAINMENT – AMI WILLIAMSON
MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST & VOCALIST
With the ‘sass’ of Peggy Lee and sweetness of Doris Day; Ami Williamson brings hits from the 1950s Jazz era to life.
Ami is the daughter of Australian music icon, True Blue John Williamson.
“Why Don’t You Do Right” – We enjoyed Ami with the magnificent Silversea Shadow band.
It was an evening not to be missed!
Tonight’s dinner was in The Restaurant
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Tuesday, February 20, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Day at Sea En Route to Sydney, Australia
Where in the World Are We?
We are sailing from New Zealand to Sydney, Australia in the South Pacific Ocean
Today’s activities included:
- Bridge Lessons
- Dance Lessons
- Enrichment Lecture with Lecturer Andrew Gregson: Rainbow Warrior – The bombing of the Greenpeace flagship
- Silversea Expedition – Galapagos
- Enrichment Lecturer with Lecturer Dina Gregson – The History of Gin
- Showtime! Silversea presents “Casino”
Tonight’s Lunch and Dinner was in The Restaurant
TONIGHT’S ENTERTAINMENT – CASINO
THE MOST ICONIC CASINO ENTERTAINMENT OF ALL TIME
Featuring the music of Elvis Presley, The Rat Pack, and James Bond.
Tonight’s performance celebrated the most iconic Casino Entertainment of all time. Our Silversea Vocalists and Dancers brought this Casino experience to life.
We enjoyed familiar hits such as Viva Las Vegas, Come Fly with Me, and Goldfinger.
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Monday, February 19, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Plymouth, New Zealand
Where in the World Are We?
We are in New Plymouth on the South Island of New Zealand in the South Pacific Ocean
NEW PLYMOUTH, NEW ZEALAND
EXPLORE THE STUNNING “GOBLIN FOREST” OF THE EGMONT NATIONAL PARK
When asked to describe his homeland, (Lord of the Rings Trilogy and The Hobbit director) Peter Jackson said “New Zealand is not a small country but a large village” and never a truer word was spoken about New Plymouth.
Named after Plymouth in England when the first British settlers arrived in 1841, the city is a hybrid of traditions. Treasure, stories, and culture fuse perfectly together with coastal walkways, botanic gardens, and award-winning golf courses in this bubbly, artsy city.
Located in the Taranaki Region on New Zealand’s North Island, New Plymouth has won multiple awards for its positive attitude towards pedestrians and cyclists and community sustainability. Ruled by the great outdoors and more notably Mount Taranaki, this majestic 8261 feet snow-capped active volcano looms over the city with the ever-present threat of eruption (although the last eruption dates back to 1814), thus making the city and its surroundings a veritable haven for those who love outdoor pursuits.
Rising above the clouds, the volcano beckons walkers and those who do make it to the top are compensated with spectacular sea vistas from their privileged position, perched high above the city.
TE REWA REWA BRIDGE
At the mouth of the Waiwhakaiho River, you can find an iconic landmark and truly unique artwork: the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge. Thanks to its spectacular setting, shape, and sightlines, the sparkling white structure attracts visitors to walk, run, or cycle along the Coastal Walkway.
Since opening in 2010, the bridge has won numerous awards for both its innovative architecture and impressive engineering. While its curving steel arches were designed to look like the skeleton of a whale or a breaking wave, the bridge’s flow and form highlight the harmonious relationship between the land, sea, and wind. An impressive sight is the snow-topped Mount Taranaki majestically framed by the structure of the bridge.
SIGHTS
- Pukekura Park
- Egmont National Park
- Puke Ariki Museum
- Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
- Brooklands Zoo
- Tūpare Garden
- Dawson Falls
Today’s Excursion – New Plymouth Panoramas
We enjoyed this panoramic tour of New Plymouth covering all the must-see sights in the area.
Panoramic Views, Moturoa Lookout, Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, Pukekura Park
We departed the pier and traveled to Moturoa Lookout, a scenic lookout point with 360-degree views of the region. From here, we followed the coastline to the Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, a popular landmark of the region. Its shape represents the bones of a whale. Next, we visited the spectacular Pukekura Park, often described as the Jewel in New Plymouth’s crown. This park features two lakes, stunning waterways, greenery & birdlife, all just a stone’s throw from the central city. Lastly, we spent time exploring the downtown area and its museums.
TONIGNT’S ENTERTAINMENT – AMI WILLIAMSON
MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST & VOCALIST
1960s Folk Music Show – A trip down memory lane.
Hits from Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Pete Seeger, and
many more.
“Ami has passion and personality plus; she quite simply creates a buzz!” – (Newport Folk Festival).
”Ami Williamson is my favorite Australian act” – (Folk Icon, Judy Collins). Ami Williamson is a lot better than any singer has a right to be” – (The Washington Post).
Ami is the daughter of Australian music icon, True Blue John Williamson.
Tonight’s dinner was at The Restaurant and was a birthday celebration for Brian Clink
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Sunday, February 18, 2024 – Photo of the Day – Nelson, New Zealand
Where in the World Are We?
In Nelson on the South New Zealand Island in the South Pacific Ocean
NELSON, NEW ZEALAND
NELSON TASMAN IS RENOWNED FOR ITS STUNNING NATURAL LANDSCAPES
Tucked right into the very top of New Zealand’s South Island, Nelson is easy to miss. Yet, it would be foolish to do so; overlooking Nelson would be overlooking a fabulous town with friendly people, gorgeous scenery, and no shortage of superlative food and wine.
The city has long held a magnetic pull for creatives of all types: it’s known for artisanal craft shops and diverse art galleries. In fact, with one of the largest numbers of working artists and galleries in the country, you’ll find an array of talented craftspeople living in the region; from traditional, to contemporary to Māori.
Not only is Nelson one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand, but it is the oldest on the South Island (and second oldest in the country). The land was bought in 1840 by the British for £800, to provide a place to live to settlers. By 1843 almost 2,000 adults had relocated to the province, yet lack of funds thwarted their dreams of becoming landowners. Thus Nelson has been largely left alone by industry.
Population has swelled in recent years due to the town’s stunning natural landscapes, but this is a place for young families and lovers of the Great Outdoors. Set on the Able Tasman Coast Track, and the border of the Nelson Lakes National Park, there is much to keep your eyes – and legs! – occupied.
Kayak alongside dolphins, penguins, and seals in the Tonga Island Marine Reserve, bathe in the crystal waters of the Kahurangi National Park or a low tide beach walk – or ride – in Wharariki.
TE WAIKOROPUPŪ SPRINGS
This is the largest freshwater spring in the southern hemisphere with approx. 14,000L of water per second bubbling up from underground vents. It’s also among the clearest in the world. The colorful little lake is reached via a 45-minute forest walk from the car park, where you can find Māori carvings and illuminating information panels.
Māori consider this a wāhi tapu (sacred place), and the waters are off-limits to all but the local tribe who use them for healing and other ceremonies. Tradition has it that a taniwha (a kind of dinosaur-like spiritual guardian) regularly visits here.
SIGHTS
- Abel Tasman National Park
- The Suter Art Gallery
- Queen’s Gardens
- The Nelson Provincial Museum
- Broadgreen Historic House
- Tahunanui Beach
- Nelson Lakes National Park
Today’s Excursion – Nelson Discovery
Nelson is a city on the South Island of New Zealand and it’s known for local arts and crafts stores, and art galleries.
Panoramic Drive & Clasic Car Museum
We departed the pier for an orientation drive through Nelson on our way to the Nelson Classic Cars Museum.
We enjoyed a self-guided tour of this unique museum, a memorable experience like no other, and unique to Nelson. Firmly
established as an iconic Nelson visitor attraction, the Nelson Classic Cars Museum houses over 160 Classic cars. We marveled over one of Australasia’s largest private collections of classic cars. The car collection represents years of passionate sourcing from New Zealand and around the world.
Artisan Workshops
Afterward, we visited some of the artisan workshops, such as Jen Hansen Ring Maker, their “One Ring” in “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit” movie are undoubtedly the world’s most famous ring. Its shape is simple, yet recognizable. We visited Flamedaisy Glass Design, is an original handmade glass studio by Anthony Genet and Berinthia Binnie. Based in the heart of central Nelson, we browse the gallery or watch the magic of glassblowing in the hot shop.
Queen’s Garden and Museum of Modern Art
We visited The Queen’s Garden which opened on Queen Victoria’s Jubilee celebration in 1892. The Queens Gardens is a beautiful example of a classical Victorian ornamental park. We toured the Suter Art Gallery which is one of the oldest galleries in New Zealand, with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Our return drive back to the ship and Port Nelson took us past Tahunanui Beach and Nelson’s waterfront with a view of Haulashore Island and the naturally formed Boulder Bank.
TONIGHT’S SHOW – BERNARD WALZ: “PIANO! PIANO!”
Australia’s 7-time “Instrumentalist Of The Year” for “Piano! Piano!”
Bernard presented a dynamic and thrilling performance of music from
the Classical Masters to Classic Rock… with music from the movies and a touch of Broadway in between!
With appearances from the Concert Hall of the famed Sydney Opera
House, to conducting a symphony orchestra on the sands of Sydney’s
equally famous Bondi Beach at sunrise! Bernard wows his audience
with technical prowess at the keyboard, a flair for musical thrills and an
engaging on-stage presence.
We enjoyed a superb night of music-making and entertainment with cross-over concert-pianist, Bernard Walz.
Tonight’s dinner was at The Grill on the Pool Deck under the stars
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