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24 Jul 2012
Crystal Reflections J223 Cruise
Pacific Jewel - 12 nights ex Sydney, Australia
Past Sailing
Be spoiled on the Pacific Jewel enjoying 12 unforgettable nights on the Crystal Reflections J223 Cruise exploring Pacific - South. Your ship sails from Sydney and visits 7 ports in 3 countries before returning to Sydney. This particular 4 star voyage from P&O Cruises has forward departures, but is unfortunately sold out for this departure.
BONUS up to $200 onboard cabin credit for this cruise!
(excludes instant purchase promotional fares)
| Day | Date | Port of call | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tue 24 Jul 2012 | Sydney, Australia | 4.00pm | |
 Cruise ships berthed at Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal (OPT) access sweeping views of the harbour, Opera House, CBD, Circular Quay ferry terminal, and Sydney Harbour Bridge – all within a few minutes’ walk. The new White Bay Cruise Terminal (near Balmain), for mid-sized vessels that can pass under the Bridge, docks two cruise ships. Facilities at both terminals are efficient, though White Bay is 30 minutes’ drive by taxi or shuttle bus to the CBD and Central Station. Long term car parking is not too far away from each terminal. During the crowded summer season cruise ships occasionally tender passengers from Athol Buoy and Point Piper Buoy. QM2 has docked at Garden Island Naval Base.
Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, is Australia's first and largest city. Astride the magnificent Sydney Harbour, it has come a long way from its convict beginnings in 1788, but still exudes a rough and colonial energy. Soak up Sydney’s gorgeous harbour on a wide range of vessels including yachts, tall ships, catamarans, or even kayaks. If adventurous try a jet boat ride, or perhaps decide that there's no better way to see the sights than on a Sydney Explorer Hop-on Hop-off Harbour Cruise. Take surfing lessons at Manly and Bondi Beaches. On the harbour’s north shore are Taronga Zoo and the Sydney Aquarium, and on a tiny island in the middle of the harbour tour historic Fort Denison. Adjacent to the OPT investigate The Rocks precinct with its images of a colourful convict past. Day options include a climb to the top of the ‘Coathanger’, tour of the Opera House, dining at the Skywalk of Sydney Tower, strolling in Hyde Park, dining at an ethnic restaurant, Duty-Free shopping, and striking up a conversation with friendly locals. One-day coach tours visit the highlights of Sydney, Hunter Valley wine region, and the spectacular Blue Mountains. Take a scenic flight over the Harbour and Pacific surfing coastline. For lovers of sport, whale-watching, sky diving, and hot air ballooning are also on offer. more/less... |
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| 2 | Wed 25 Jul 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 3 | Thu 26 Jul 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 4 | Fri 27 Jul 2012 | Emerald Bay, New Caledonia | 9.00am | 5.00pm |
 Emerald Bay and the village of Poum sit within the world's largest lagoon at the northern tip of the main island, Grande Terre, in New Caledonia (an overseas territory of France), and provides a unique backdrop for the beautiful uninhabited Divine Island.
This region is rich in Kanak culture, and with a choice of numerous white beaches and aqua waters it is a favourite destination for cruise ships. Hiking and mountain biking are both excellent ways of exploring the hinterland. If possible, visit the nearby Divine Island where you can stroll along the long, white, beaches lined with swaying palm trees, and, perhaps even have a game of beach volleyball! There is also a track that gives easy access to the beaches on the other side of the island. You can walk around the island in less than 3 hours. Inland there are palm trees, evergreen trees and shrubs. A short stroll up the hill to the lookout will reward you with stunning views of Emerald Bay, more islands and sweeping vistas of the beaches. more/less... |
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| 5 | Sat 28 Jul 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 6 | Sun 29 Jul 2012 | Wala, Vanuatu | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 Wala is located off the NE coast of Malakula Island, Vanuatu. Ships can anchor between the tiny islands of Wala - a coral atoll - and Rano, so you are free to relax on pure white beaches and swim or enjoy snorkelling in the translucent waters of either island.
The island residents are gracious in allowing tourists to tour the island, as they consider the island to be taboo for non-natives. You can take a guided tour through the village to see cooking and hunting demonstrations, perhaps enjoy a traditional ceremony, or simply learn about their centuries-old history. The locals are renowned for their magnificent dancing displays and these are not be missed. It's a great place to obtain some very good quality handicrafts from the local markets and stores. This densely-vegetated island invites investigation, and hiking with a local guide, through a jungle, is most enjoyable. It will excite anyone with an interest in anthropology, as you will come across some fascinating ancient remains, such as the Chief Tablets, the Generation Tablets and the Namba. You will enjoy the feeling of being completely removed from modern culture. more/less... |
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| 7 | Mon 30 Jul 2012 | Champagne Bay, Vanuatu | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 Champagne Bay is located on the NE of the island of Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu, an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean, west of LuganvilleFiji and south of the Solomon Islands. The bay, a favourite destination for cruise ships, is so named due to a fresh water spring on the eastern side of the beach creating bubbles underwater. It offers breathtaking scenery with a spectacular stretch of beach of white sand with a slightly pink tinge, fringed with coconut trees and crystal clear water. Natives from a nearby village greet visitors to sell their handicrafts, and suggest some activities.
The island played an important role in WWII and today snorkellers can observe famous ships resting under the crystal waters. Add to this the abundance of reefs to explore and you'll be delighted. Go horse riding, fishing, go on a trekking tour and enjoy fascinating jungles, waterfalls and butterflies. Don't forget to shop for bargains among the many hand crafted pieces on offer, but be sure to try the local beef, with distinctly local side dishes, as this island actually exports beef to Japan and Australia. Another 'not-to-be-missed' site is the Blue Lagoon, a tranquil spot with crystal clear fresh water, the location of the 1980 movie of the same name. more/less... |
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| 8 | Tue 31 Jul 2012 | Port Vila, Vanuatu | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 Port Vila, the capital city of Vanuatu, which means Land Eternal, is situated on the south coast of the island of Efate, in Shefa Province, and is Vanuatu's most important harbour as well as being the centre of the country's trade. The people of the country are predominately Melanesian but there are now more than 115 distinctly different cultures and languages that thrive here, making it one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world.
Port Vila is located around a magnificent natural harbour offering stunning views of Iririki and Ifira islands. Clean and uncluttered, the waterfront area is so unpolluted, visitors are stunned to look down from the seawall and see live corals and tropical fish. The town also offers fantastic shopping, but we are encouraged to support the locally made products at such venues as the World of Wonders store, and the fascinating, outdoor markets. There are fantastic places to see, and a great option is to hire a taxi for the day by bargaining vigorously, and paying at the end of the day. Then visit some of the following - Cascade Waterfalls (just the lower parts of the falls are scenic enough), Hideaway Island (to snorkel directly off the beach and feed the fish), take a sea-plane ride and enjoy magnificent views, go horse riding in beautiful rainforests, learn sailing in a shallow lagoon, but above all else take the time to meet and mix with the delightful local people. more/less... |
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| 9 | Wed 1 Aug 2012 | Mystery Island, Vanuatu | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Mystery Island, (aka Inyeug) is located just 600 m off the SW corner of Aneityum, the southernmost inhabited island in the Vanuatu archipelago in the province of Tafea. The islet is uninhabited apart from tourists, with an airport, originally a WWII landing strip for the allied forces. The twice weekly flights serve the population on nearby Aneityum Island.
Cruise ship visitors arrive by tender, and are greeted by friendly locals from Aneityum, who come across to meet them, close to an attractive 'Welcome' sign. They provide entertainment with a string band and songs, and of great interest is the Thong Instrument, played by banging a thong on the end of various lengths of bamboo. It is surprisingly very musical. They also set up stalls with shells and handicrafts for sale. Also of great interest is the large bowl of Cannibal Soup to be tasted. The island is renowned for its white sandy beaches and magnificent turquoise waters, with a fringing reef providing excellent opportunities for experienced snorkelers. Though it does have a most private self-catering bungalow retreat, one can really feel that visitors have this delightful island all to themselves. more/less... |
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| 10 | Thu 2 Aug 2012 | Noumea, New Caledonia | 8.00am | 5.30pm |
 Noumea is the capital city of the French Territory of New Caledonia. It lies on the south of the country's main island Grande Terre. Noumea enjoys a sunny, moderate climate, similar to that of the south of France, and truly is a vibrant cosmopolitan city, where the South Pacific meets the Riviera.
The city maintains much of New Caledonia's unique mix of French and old Melanesian culture, while the U.S. wartime military influence lingers. This is evidenced both in the warmth that many New Caledonian people feel towards the U.S., as well as some of the very 'American' names of several of the quarters of the city. Noumea has excellent museums, restaurants, designer boutiques, markets and shopping areas, which you are sure to enjoy, here in the Paris of the Pacific. Hiring a yacht is very popular, as are windsurfing and scuba diving. There are numerous hiking possibilities, to enjoy the craggy mountainous beauty of the interior, and several well established ranches offer horseback riding. Visit the Jean-Marie Tjibau Cultural Centre, a world class site and Hienghene on the east coast, a place of remarkable natural beauty, with high mountains dropping dramatically into the sea. Enjoy this city which combines the ambience of a French provincial town with the excitement of a seaside resort. more/less... |
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| 11 | Fri 3 Aug 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 12 | Sat 4 Aug 2012 | At Sea | ||
| 13 | Sun 5 Aug 2012 | Sydney, Australia | 7.00am | |
| Cruise ships berthed at Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal (OPT) access sweeping views of the harbour, Opera House, CBD, Circular Quay ferry terminal, and Sydney Harbour Bridge – all within a few minutes’ walk. The new White Bay Cruise Terminal (near Balmain), for mid-sized vessels that can pass under the Bridge, docks two cruise ships. Facilities at both terminals are efficient, though White Bay is 30 minutes’ drive by taxi or shuttle bus to the CBD and Central Station. Long term car parking is not too far away from each terminal. During the crowded summer season cruise ships occasionally tender passengers from Athol Buoy and Point Piper Buoy. QM2 has docked at Garden Island Naval Base.
Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, is Australia's first and largest city. Astride the magnificent Sydney Harbour, it has come a long way from its convict beginnings in 1788, but still exudes a rough and colonial energy. Soak up Sydney’s gorgeous harbour on a wide range of vessels including yachts, tall ships, catamarans, or even kayaks. If adventurous try a jet boat ride, or perhaps decide that there's no better way to see the sights than on a Sydney Explorer Hop-on Hop-off Harbour Cruise. Take surfing lessons at Manly and Bondi Beaches. On the harbour’s north shore are Taronga Zoo and the Sydney Aquarium, and on a tiny island in the middle of the harbour tour historic Fort Denison. Adjacent to the OPT investigate The Rocks precinct with its images of a colourful convict past. Day options include a climb to the top of the ‘Coathanger’, tour of the Opera House, dining at the Skywalk of Sydney Tower, strolling in Hyde Park, dining at an ethnic restaurant, Duty-Free shopping, and striking up a conversation with friendly locals. One-day coach tours visit the highlights of Sydney, Hunter Valley wine region, and the spectacular Blue Mountains. Take a scenic flight over the Harbour and Pacific surfing coastline. For lovers of sport, whale-watching, sky diving, and hot air ballooning are also on offer. more/less... |
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P&O Cruises Australia operates the Pacific Jewel out of Sydney, Australia. Pacific Jewel offers 9- to 14-night cruises in the South Pacific to New Caledonia, Vanuatu and Fiji. Four-night cruises from Sydney will call at Moreton Island six times in 2013 – a new port of call. Plan for the 2013 Melbourne Cup 6-night cruise – sleep on the ship, travel to Flemington during the day! Follow NRL and AFL on the giant outdoor screens and other public areas. In mid-Winter 2014 Jewel sails out of Brisbane for 7-night cruises to the Great Barrier Reef and some Pacific islands. If you only have three nights available, or want to test out your sea legs, try one of the occasional Food & Wine cruises. Pacific Jewel entered service in 1990, was refurbished in late 2009, and at 70,310 GT carries 1950 passengers.
Accommodation
Staterooms come in four categories – Mini-Suite with balcony, Outside with balcony, Outside and Inside – and 15 price levels (higher decks costing more). Many cabins have a third or even a fourth bed available. All cabins are spacious, with walk-in robes, and twin beds mostly convertible to queen size. Facilities include refrigerator, kettle, personal safe, bathrobes and toiletries, and an interactive video system. The décor is neat and attractive. About two-thirds of the cabins are outside cabins having a large window (or porthole in the case of a few). Ten cabins are wheelchair accessible. Cots are available for children under three years.
Food and Dining
Dining-wise, there are five eateries onboard Pacific Jewel. Dining is where and when you like: “Your Choice Dining”, at Plantation (around the clock) and The Waterfront (three meals time daily) and tables seating two to eight. The décor is bright and extremely colourful and bright. Dress up for the formal dinner/s. There are two alternative (pay extra) restaurants. The line has recruited its first ever celebrity chef, Luke Mangan, who has added his touches to the menu in the Salt Grill restaurant, a steak and seafood venue. La Luna is a casual restaurant serving Asian-style cuisine. The crew have a name for friendliness and the food selection is plentiful and varied.
Entertainment
The main attraction is, of course, sailing to the South Pacific! You will have four or five sea days, and there’s plenty of activity day and night to keep you entertained (but no library, so take your own books). The Marquee, two decks high, is the main venue for production shows and major cabaret acts. The top Lido deck displays a Big Screen day and night. At night the Lido deck presents an aerial trapeze display. Other centres of entertainment are: the adults-only Sit Down Comedy Club, the late night Piano Bar, The Attic disco, and cocktail nights. Live bands, karaoke, dancing and the casino offer non-stop evening activities.
Welcome to our Roll Call forum for Pacific Jewel's "Crystal Reflections J223 Cruise" departing 24 Jul 2012. Here you can meet fellow cruisers, swap ideas, plan tours, share with others and make friends before you even leave!
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View the current location for Pacific Jewel here!
Cruise summary
Cruise: Crystal Reflections J223 Cruise
Duration: 12 nights
Ship: Pacific Jewel
Star rating: 
Departs: Sydney
Returns: Sydney
Ports of call: 7
Forward departures:
What's onboard? ▼
- Stateroom, 24-h room service
- Shore Tours desk
- Atrium social centre
- Shops duty-free
- Self-serve Shore Tours, view accounts
- DINING
- Main dining rooms (2)
- Dine anytime, or Reservations
- Specialty restaurants (2)
- The Café
- Lounges, bars, clubs (8)
- ENTERTAINMENT
- Main Theatre shows
- Late night venues
- Theme, Cocktail nights
- Casino
- Circus & trapeze shows
- Laser Light Shows
- Game shows
- Big Screen poolside
- Voyage to the Stars
- ACTIVITIES
- Swimming pools (2)
- Paddling pool
- Whirlpools Spas (2)
- Aqua Health Spa Fitness (large)
- Deck & board games
- Fitness Centre, jogging track
- Fitness, dance, circus classes
- Classes for art, cooking
- ‘Ceremonies at Sea’ program
- ‘Events at Sea’ organised
- Photo shop, Art auctions
- UNDER 18
- Children’s Centre facilities(1-3y)
- Group child minding (late night, 3-13y, pay)
- Turtle Cove (3-6 years)
- Shark Shack (7-10 years)
- HQ+ (15-17 years)
- PlayStation, Wii competitions
- Video arcade games (pay)
- OTHER
- Internet, Wi-Fi access (pay)
- Mobile (International roaming; pay service provider)
- Laundrette
- Wheelchair accessibility
- Elevators (9)
- Medical emergency centre
- Smoking in selected outdoor areas
What's included? ▼
- Accommodation as booked
- Gratuities - tipping is neither expected nor required
- All main meals on-board
- Coffee, tea, milk & hot snacks
- Open/anytime seating & multi-venue dining
- Open/anytime or traditional/set time & multi-venue dining
- Use of ship facilities - indoor & outdoor
- Entertainment - live music and/or shows, movies
- Activities - organised & individual
- Bridge director on select cruises
- Kids clubs & teen programs (3-17 yrs)
- Cruise Director & all English speaking staff
- Valet, laundry & concierge services (Suites, Mini-suites)
- Weddings, ceremonies, group events options
- Port maps and/or guide books
- Ship-shore-ship transfers
What's excluded? ▼
- Airfares, accommodation & transfers not specified
- Shore & land excursions and meals not specified
- Alternate specialty dining venues
- Room service menu items
- Workshops, classes & programs
- Casino gaming, bar expenses
- Passport & visa fees
- Insurances of all kinds
- Increases in third party charges or taxes
- Customary land tour gratuities are welcome
- Items & services of a personal nature
- Medical services, vaccination costs
- Laundry and/or valet charges
- Wi-Fi, Internet, satellite/mobile phone & fax charges
- Childcare night services (3-12 yrs, 10pm-1am)
Recent testimonials
"We have returned after enjoying such a great first cruise. We thoroughly enjoyed the entire cruise and hope to take another one at some time. We just wanted to say thank you for everything you did for us and we valued your assistance greatly."
Amelia from Melbourne
"We really enjoyed ourselves on the Pacific Dawn. You can be assured that your name has already been passed on to friends - your courtesy and professionalism has been most appreciated."
Ian R from Sydney
"The trip was great. We appreciate all your arrangements which were excellent. Our cabin allocation was terrific, with an adjoining cabin for our kids, and we enjoyed the cake that you kindly requested for our daughter on her birthday."
Jenny S from Sydney