MMDown Under

Independent touring. Always take the piece of paper, with the local agents name and contact details on it, with you. When we came back to the ship in Lisbon it had shifted along the wharf and all the gates we tried were locked. Fortunately other passengers were trying to board also. One had Agent’s details which was a Godsend!

Is Oriental Parade a street address or an attraction

Walking softly on the reef is magical. Gliding along a long rope viewing the colourful fish, living with birds which call the island home, watching turtles lay their eggs and later watching the eggs hatch. Enjoy sunrise and sunsets. I have stayed at Port Douglas and done lots of tours from there such as Daintree and Cape Trubulation. On my port visit I just walked around PD and on the beach. Paddling was limited because of stingers.

They are all cruise ships according to my last Captain. Agree it is different but so is a mega ship with 4000-5000 passengers. The size of these limits what they can do in Australia and the islands. All have entertainment and activities. In Antarctica, on board we had lectures. A science lab, plus kayaking around small islands, sleeping out in the snow overnight, visits to international bases, and old ruins, even a shop and Post Office, plus visits to lots and lots of penguins!!

When I talk about cruise ships I refer to ships with 100 - 800 passengers. On small ships the cruise is the tour. Excursions are by tender to see things like aboriginal rock drawings or crocodiles and birds. close up.

You are so right! Lucky boy to live close enough to ride. My first memories of the NQ islands I was 2. My great uncle used to throw a fish at me to catch, so I could proudly say I caught the fish. Red Emperor remains a favourite fish today. I feel sorry for people who don’t have grand parents or great aunts and uncles close. My husband had four grandparents and one great grandparent when I met him. (I had only one who acted as a parent,)

Yum. I still love milk shakes but have real coffee now instead of chocolate.

Yes currently not suitable for cruise ships. Thanks. We went by ferry to Heron Island. It used to be the most beautiful island right on the Reef. When I looked to go again it had been ruined by current management. So We flew from Hervey Bay to Lady Elliot Island over Fraser Island via Bundaberg return. This Island is pure joy, loved and well run and spotlessly clean. I want to go again. It gets heavily booked with repeat visitors.

Why from a Queenslander?

I saw a mother and baby whale close to the shore at Eden. Was the highlight of our travels south!! When do they come last? August at Hervey Bay but you have to do boat tour.

I find the people are nice in small towns. If you give them the time of day you will learn a lot (for free)

I seem to recall going to an island from Gladstone.

Would have been a nice walk left but long scenic route to Shelley Beach. I had to do directions with my fingers. 😀

Agree that is a must do every time. ?turn right from Corso.

What luxury to have grandmas home made sausage rolls!

My friends all complained how much their boys ate as they watched my girls share one meal!

Magnetic Island is beautiful. I saw my last koala in the wild there. Small ships could anchor off there and tender into the island. Those who prefer Townsville could take the regular ferry from MI.

Also Mackay for small ships.

All wonderful interesting places (with paid parking). Bus transport free for Seniors

Fredericton/ Kempsey

I might try one on holidays.

What a lovely reason for an afters holiday. Is ship same design as Azamara?

Lots of interesting new ports to enjoy. How exciting! Overnight stop allows you to attend a cooking class if one isn’t already included. From Laem Chabang we got a private transfer to the zoo. Having excursions included is a big bonus. Bon Voyage!

I’ve never bought a frozen pie. Only hot pies from bakeries. Favourite pie and mushy peas added under the top. Cornish Pasties are the best!

How do Aldi pies compare with quality local bakeries?