possum52

We were last at Akaroa in November 2018 on the Golden Princess. The tenders used were the ship's own and it took around 15-20 minutes into the Akaroa pier if I remember correctly.

That is the same for all ports south of Sydney. It is a NSW state government project - from this link - Port of Eden 'The Port of Eden is an active working port which supports a variety of recreational, commercial, and port vessel operations on the New South Wales far south coast. On occasion, the port is exposed to significant wind and wave conditions which can affect maritime safety in the port and increase the risk of damage to vessels moored in Snug Cove. The aim of the Eden Safe Harbour Project is to provide a safer harbour for local and visiting vessels and improve the protection of existing maritime infrastructure within Snug Cove, Eden. Providing a safer harbour will enhance Eden’s reputation as a boating destination which is anticipated to stimulate local investment in the maritime and tourism sectors.'

That would be normal, I would expect as it is the end of the summer cruise season. Ships wouldn't call into Eden during winter/early spring because of the weather and sea conditions.

ML, I found this link which has the next week's arrivals and what dock they will be on - Civitavecchia Port Arrivals and Departures which may be of help to plan your trip between the two ships.

It depend on what you want to do on the harbour cruise - do you just want to spend time on the water? Or sightsee? Or cruise and have lunch or dinner? If sightseeing, I would suggest you catch one of the harbour ferries and visit Manly where you can walk through to the ocean beach, have a meal at one of the many restaurants or eat fish and chips sitting on the beach. Perhaps take a walk into the Sydney Harbour National Park. Another suggestion is to catch a ferry to Parramatta, a historic suburb, which will take you under the Harbour bridge and up the Parramatta River. Or a ferry to Watson's Bay which on the other side of the heads to Manly. If you want to do a harbour cruise just to spend time on the harbour, as you said there are plenty of options.

Yes they were used by all bookies I reckon. Glad your trip is going well.

My Dad used a gladstone bag to take his footiy gear to training and games and then when he umpired after retiring from playing.

Thanks Linda, no I didn't see it (sport took preference with viewing last night). I'll have a look for it this afternoon. We love watching his shows.

You do not need to tip anyone in Australia and NZ including tour guides. Thank you for researching our local customs. it can avoid embarrassement for all concerned.

3/4 time Swans 7.10.52 v Saints 7.4.46

1/2 time - Swans 5.5.35 v Saints 4.2.26

1/4 time - Saints 1.1.7 v Swans 0.0.0

Hello Brandee, hope you are well. The smog in NY was on my car radio news this morning. This is what happen swith smoke from fires in Australia too. During the 2019-2020 summer fires, both Sydney and Melbourne had bad smoke which lasted for days. I can remember quite a few years ago, during a bad fire season sitting at the tennis (AUS Open) and the smoke was all around us. I hope the wind changes and the smoke/smog disperses quickly. Stay safe.

It seems to be only used in QLD. In Victoria, it is usually a suitcase or case.

They are industry awards - from the link you provided above - The Baking Association of Australia held the 2023 awards, which saw 380 bakeries enter over 1500 pies to be judged over the three days of the competition.

The pie looks amazing Julie. I have made quite a few of Nagi's recipes. Here is the link to the recipe if anyone is interested - Nagi's Pithivier Recipe

It is just a very modern ship Marion. Launched last year. It will be interesting having such a new ship home based in Melbourne. A bit pricey though.

Distilled water can be purchased at Big W in Adelaide Street, Brisbane CBD about a 15 minute walk from Parliament House. I believe Countdown Supernarkets in Auckland sell distilled water. The closest to your position is a couple of hundred metres walk from Sky Tower in Victoria Street West.

Sorry, I should have checked who I was replying to. I think you would be best to use the ship's excursions.

It probably is better do it on a ship excursion. I assume you are on Majestic Princess for February 4th at Yorkey's knob? If so you are there from 8am to 6pm. If you decide to do it yourself, there may be privately booked tours or you could catch a taxi from Yorkey's knob to the Skyrail terminal at Smithfield and do the Skyrail to Kuranda and catch the train back to Cairns. Cruise ships usually have shuttles from there back to Yorkey's Knob but you need to check all the details and do a bit of research on what is best for you.

From the link I provided above - An NZeTA is valid for 2 years for travellers, and 5 years for crew members. You can use your NZeTA for multiple visits while it is valid.