Starboard or port?

[Beaches57]

We will be sailing on the Noordam HAL in Jan 2024.  Embark in Sydney and disembark in Auckland New Zealand.  Which side is preferable for views while sailing? 

[crystalspin]

Assuming you would like views of some land in the distance, the map says you will be "hugging" New Zealand with portside towards land. Maps can be deceiving -- you may rarely see the shore, or lots.

 

That's a lovely itinerary, btw!

[Sir PMP]

If you want to see Sydney Harbor and the Opera House, starboard.

[ski ww]

Get out on deck that is where the best views will be.

[CruiserBruce]

1 hour ago, ski ww said:

Get out on deck that is where the best views will be.

Agree. The easy solution.

[dwc13]

In October 2019, we cruised aboard then-HAL Maasdam from Sydney to Auckland. Melbourne wasn't a stop on our cruise (we visited on our own) but is currently scheduled for both of the 14 night January 2024 Australia & New Zealand sailings aboard Noordam. Unfortunately, a scheduled visit to Milford Sound was cancelled during our cruise because of a medical emergency. 

 

You'll definitely want to be on deck for the sailaway from Sydney and arrival in Auckland. 

 

Large cruise ships that aren't able to pass under Sydney Harbour Bridge dock at Overseas Passenger Terminal, which is the city's primary cruise terminal. When departing Sydney, after the ship leaves Overseas Passenger Terminal and gets turned around, Sydney Harbour Bridge will be port side while Sydney Opera House will be starboard. If you arrive a few days early, take the water taxis around the harbor and get some really good photo ops for both iconic structures.

 

As the ship makes its way to the cruise terminal at Auckland, port side will face the Central Business District. Rangitoto Island and Takarunga/Mount Victoria will be starboard.

 

While the ship is hugging the NZ coastline making its way to the next port, there isn't too much to see. So if you enjoy coastlines with great scenery, time permitting check out Great Ocean Road and while in Sydney, the Bondi to Bronte Coastal Walk. Both are very highly recommended.

 

Guide to the Great Ocean Road, Victoria - Tourism Australia

 

Bondi to Bronte Walk (Complete Guide) | Sydney Uncovered

 

Enjoy your cruise.

 

[dwc13]

The picture below from our visit in 2019 was taken from just outside Luna Park Sydney near Milsons Point Wharf ferry stop, Sydney, NSW, Australia. Sydney Harbour Bridge and in the distance Sydney Opera House are easy to spot.

 

 

 

The Ferris wheel is part of Luna Park Sydney, an old-time amusement park. It is nicely lit up at night. 

 

P&O Cruises Australia ship Pacific Explorer is at Overseas Passenger Terminal. Upon departing, it will get turned around before heading towards Sydney Opera House, followed by more maneuvering on its way to the Pacific Ocean. Pacific Explorer will not sail under Sydney Harbour Bridge.

 

The tall buildings in the distance are at Circular Quay (pronounced 'key'), which a transportation hub in Sydney. Numerous ferry, subway and light rail lines provide service to many locations throughout the area.

Edited November 30, 2022 by dwc13