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26 Apr 2013
Grand Pacific World Cruise 2013 Sector
Sun Princess - 25 nights ex Sydney, Australia
Past Sailing
Join the Sun Princess for 25 exciting nights aboard the Grand Pacific World Cruise 2013 Sector through the waters of Australia. Your ship starts out from Sydney, the cruise will take you to 10 ports in 6 countries before returning to Beijing (Tanggu). This 4.5 star voyage from Princess Cruises has forward departures, but is unfortunately sold out for this departure.
| Day | Date | Port of call | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fri 26 Apr 2013 | 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 | Sat 27 Apr 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 3 | Sun 28 Apr 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 4 | Mon 29 Apr 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 5 | Tue 30 Apr 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 6 | Wed 1 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 7 | Thu 2 May 2013 | Darwin, Australia | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 The new Darwin cruise ship terminal, adjacent to Stokes Hill wharf waterfront area and convention centre, is only one kilometre from Darwin’s CBD. Modern amenities, hotels and parking are right there, alongside a mini-market with beautiful local productions – Aboriginal art and crafts, diamonds and opals, and eateries, all very distinctive of the Top End. Darwin is a home port for the small luxury vessels Coral Princess, Oceanic Discoverer, and Orion that explore the Kimberley coast to Broome. A score of cruise ship lines include Darwin in their itineraries for Australia, Indonesia, South-East Asia and World Cruises. The harbour, seven times the area of Sydney Harbour, and bounded by mangrove forest, offers great fishing, sunken ships and sea life.
Darwin is the capital city of the Northern Territory, Australia. Its tropical climate has two seasons, Wet and Dry. The hottest month is November, just before the onset of the monsoon season, locally known as 'Mango Madness' season. Originally a pioneer outpost, Darwin has been rebuilt twice. Air raids during World War II landed more bombs than on Pearl Harbour. Then came the devastation of Cyclone Tracy in 1974 that flattened 70% of the city. Visits to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, the East Point Military Museum, the Aviation Heritage Centre, and the Myilly Point Historical Precinct, give one a truly fascinating understanding and 'feel' for the local history. The lazy beaches, modern wave pool, buzzing markets, the orchids and traditional Aboriginal plants in the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, and numerous annual festivals make Darwin a cultural melting pot of exotic smells and flavours. Stroll around this vibrant, cosmopolitan, yet casual city, passing the occasional busker intoning the droning sound of a didgeridoo. Quite special. Truly a young city rich in history and cultural heritage. more/less... |
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| 8 | Fri 3 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 9 | Sat 4 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 10 | Sun 5 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 11 | Mon 6 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 12 | Tue 7 May 2013 | Singapore, Singapore | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 Singapore is an island nation located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. It lies 137 km north of the Equator, south of the Malaysian state of Johor and north of Indonesia's Riau Islands. One of the few remaining city-states in the world, Singapore is a thriving cosmopolitan city that’s brimming with diversity and has a multiplicity of culture, language, arts and architecture and a world famous variety of cuisine.
Before the shops open at 11am visit the famed Botanic Gardens with its virgin rainforest and magnificent orchids, then have a delightful breakfast at the food court at Tanglin Gate. Afterwards, you will probably gravitate to the famed retail stretch of the CBD. Continue on to see the 'real Singapore'. Visit the amazing artwork at the Ritz Carlton, tour the unheralded Chinatown Heritage Centre, go to Haji Lane for some unique shopping, take a ride on the 165 m high Flyer, and perhaps travel to Dempsey Hill to enjoy the historical setting as well as eat at the White Rabbit. There are a series of delightful tours that take in the famous Raffles hotel, harbour cruises, visiting the famous Sentosa Island by the scenic cable car for some truly fantastic experiences for children and adults alike, and taking a hop-on-hop-off bus tour with its inviting buses, which provide and interesting commentary. You will certainly not be surprised to know that over ten million tourists visit Singapore each year. more/less... |
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| 13 | Wed 8 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 14 | Thu 9 May 2013 | Koh Samui, Thailand | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Koh Samui is an island off the east coast of the Kra Isthmus in Thailand, about 35 km NE of Surat Thani town. It is Thailand's third largest island, roughly circular in shape, and about 15 km across. The central part of the island is an uninhabitable mountain jungle and the various lowland areas are connected together by a single road that goes right around the island.
Circumnavigate the island, exploring pristine beaches, villages and relaxing beach-side restaurants, either by hiring a bicycle yourself, or hire a local Samui driver/guide to show you around. The island is truly an oasis of natural beauty, with its white sandy beaches, dazzling coral, luscious lagoons, picturesque waterfalls, swaying coconut trees and crystal clear water. With a broad mixture of cultures, many different traditions, including western, are celebrated. The Big Buddha, located on the north of the island, is in all the guide books of Samui, but there are several other temples and chedis worth seeking out. Most of the freely distributed maps indicate where the best lookouts are and which waterfalls are notable. Then there are the famous, erotically shaped, Hin Ta and Hin Ya rocks at the southern end of Lamai. It is also possible to visit some of the surrounding islands, while a day trip to the gorgeous Ang Thong National Park, which is the least spoilt of all, and accessible with a guide, may be your choice. more/less... |
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| 15 | Fri 10 May 2013 | Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand | 7.00am | 7.00pm |
 Laem Chabang Port is about a two hour trip SE of Bangkok, which is the capital, largest urban area and primary city of Thailand. Bangkok is situated at the mouth of the Chao Phraya River. It is a place where the past, present, and future live harmoniously together, as reflected by the luxury hotels and gleaming skyscrapers that grace the skyline alongside dazzling, historical, temples.
The city's wealth of cultural landmarks and attractions, in addition to its notorious entertainment venues, has made it synonymous with exoticism. Places well worth visiting include the country's historical venues such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and Wat Arun, as well as the Vimanmek Palace Complex, and a few of its thousands of temples. The National Museum and the National Gallery Museum, just opposite, have wonderful displays of traditional and contemporary works. For something different visit the Snake and Crocodile Farms, or even the largest outdoor museum in the world, Ancient City, with its replicas of famous buildings and monuments. There are also some wonderful boat tours on offer that provide a peaceful, relaxing way of seeing some fantastic sights. Be aware that foreign residents and tourists alike complain of widespread scams and blatant price gouging, but by being circumspect you will thoroughly enjoy this amazing city that draws in eleven million international visitors annually. more/less... |
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| 16 | Sat 11 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 17 | Sun 12 May 2013 | Phu My, Vietnam | 7.00am | 6.00pm |
 The port of Phu My in the Mekong delta is one of several gateways to Ho Chi Minh City and the seaside resort of Vung Tau. Explore the National History Museum and Reunification Hall. Browse the shops on Dong Khoi Street and immerse yourself in the myriad of colors, aromas and sights that make up this energetic and enterprising city.
Over a quarter of a century has passed since the Vietnam War ended in 1975 with the fall of Saigon. Today, the name of this bustling metropolis on the Mekong River is Ho Chi Minh City. Yet, the essence of the city, a major trading center since the 18th century, remains unchanged. The air is filled with the cries of street hawkers and honking horns. Swarms of motorbikes buzz down the crowded streets balancing every sort of cargo imaginable—from clinging families to coops of live chickens. And everywhere, friendly faces and warm greetings meet you. more/less... |
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| 18 | Mon 13 May 2013 | Nha Trang, Vietnam | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Nha Trang is a coastal city and capital of Khánh Hòa province, Vietnam. It is possibly best known for its bay, one of the most beautiful in the world, and the excellent scuba diving. It is a popular destination for locals, international tourists and large numbers of backpackers on the SE Asia circuit.
If you can leave the pristine beaches and the lifestyle that goes with it, then organise to visit not only the local but also the outlying attractions that are extremely appealing. If you are a keen photographer then do visit the internationally renowned Long Thanh Photo Studio with a permanent exhibition gallery open to the public. The Alexandre Yersin Museum, which is known for its displays of scientific history, and the National Oceanographic Museum, are also of interest to many. Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, mountain biking and motor biking all reach varied landscapes of the province. There are some great day tours as well, such as visiting interesting religious sites including Po Ngar Cham Towers and the Long Son Pagoda, or perhaps soaking in mineral mud at the Thap Bo Hot Spring Centre. Then again there are the cooking classes, which start with buying products at the markets, and finish with a terrific meal, or even taking a boat tour to visit a range of beaches. Nah Trang has the alluring combination of being pleasant on the eye, inexpensive and culturally interesting. more/less... |
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| 19 | Tue 14 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 20 | Wed 15 May 2013 | Hong Kong, Hong Kong | 8.00am | 11.00pm |
 Hong Kong, situated on China's south coast and enclosed by the Pearl River Delta and the South China Sea, is a kaleidoscope of life, a sophisticated fusion of East and West, a city of diversity where new and old meet at every turn. Hong Kong offers a host of memorable tourist attractions within its compact area, with The Peak, Victoria Harbour and the Giant Buddha among the most awe-inspiring.
Experience the culture, perhaps by visiting the Heritage Museum, that makes Hong Kong unique. If staying overnight then take advantage of the wonderful sunset/night harbour cruises which usually include a delightful dinner. Shorter day-time cruises include the Pink Dolphin Watching cruise, while there are numerous tours which present delightful sights of Hong Kong. Take a half day tour of the island for an overall picture, visit Ocean Park (a Buddhist Monastery), Kowloon and the new territories, Long Island, or Hong Kong Disneyland Theme Park. You could even choose to make a simulated flight landing in Kai Tak in Hong Kong. You will be truly amazed, not only by the diverse contrasts, but also the close proximity of astonishing cityscapes and soaring mountains, heritage sites and extensive countryside. This self-named Entertainment Hub truly opens a window into what will be, while embracing what has passed. more/less... |
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| 21 | Thu 16 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 22 | Fri 17 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 23 | Sat 18 May 2013 | Shanghai, China | 7.00am | 6.00pm |
 Shanghai, located at the middle part of the coast of mainland China at the mouth of the Yangtze River, is the most populous city in the Peoples Republic. It is the largest centre of commerce and finance in mainland China, and has truly become the show-piece of the world’s fastest growing major economy, a new city that is sophisticated, innovative and living a life it has never lived before.
Nanjing Road is Shanghai’s world-famous shopping paradise, but there are great shopping districts throughout the city, and taxi fares are very reasonable. Enjoy visiting the many beautiful museums and theatres, including the Shanghai Art Museum or the Natural History Museum and then perhaps take a ride on the world’s first magnetic levitation train. There are also beautiful parks and temples to be enjoyed. The city is a tourist destination renowned for its historical landmarks such as the Bund and the City god Temple, and its ever-expanding Pudong skyline including the Oriental Pearl Tower. Shanghai is the hotspot of modern China, a cosmopolitan city buzzing with the concept of lifestyle revolution, showcased in the architectural temples of art, fine dining and contemporary urban living. Enjoy your visit to this scintillating city, swirling with rapid cultural change. more/less... |
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| 24 | Sun 19 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 25 | Mon 20 May 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 26 | Tue 21 May 2013 | Beijing (Tanggu), China | 4.00am | |
 Beijing, in Tanggu Province, northern China, is the capital of the People's Republic of China and the nation's political, economic, cultural and educational centre. It is also China's most important centre for international trade and communications. Each year sees about 4.4 million international visitors join with 140 million Chinese tourists, in this popular tourist destination.
Renowned tourist attractions include the Great Wall of China, Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, Ming Tombs, National Stadium, and Tiananmen Square. Also don't neglect to take a rickshaw ride or a tour of the Beijing Hutongs, a wonderful way to reflect on the local peoples' lives. Indeed there are around twenty practical day tours, including bicycling and walking tours, which are worth considering. Places of interest include the Fragrant Hill Park, Niujie Mosque, 798 Factory Art District, Beijing World Park, Lugou Bridge, Songshan Nature Reserve, Yangi Lake Amusement Park, and the wonderful spectacle of the Yinhu Cave. Enjoy shopping for a bargain, perhaps view an acrobatic performance, and thoroughly enjoy the delicious food, especially a Peking Duck Dinner. Whatever you do you will be intrigued as you explore Beijing's ancient past and enjoy its exciting modern development. more/less... |
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Until July 2013 Sun Princess is based in Yokohama, Japan. Cruise the islands Japan and the Inland Sea of Japan, and touch on Korea, choosing from and impressive selection of on-shore day tours. In August/September 2013 sail between Singapore and Freemantle. Then until March 2014 Sun Princess circumnavigates New Zealand, out of Sydney and Auckland. Other itineraries head for the South Pacific islands of New Caledonia, Fiji and Vanuatu. Princess Cruises organises on-shore tours that can be booked before sailing or during the cruise. For some voyages pre- and post-cruises tours are available to extend your stay in major ports.
Accommodation
There are six main categories of staterooms - Suites with balcony, Mini-Suites with balcony, Balcony, Oceanview Deluxe, Oceanview, and Interior – and 28 grades, which give a broad choice according to guests’ needs of space and price. All cabins have pleasing décor and reasonable storage space, satellite TV, refrigerator, and 24-hour room service. Fresh fruit (by request), evening bed turn-down, bathroom lotions, and bathrobes (by request) come with every stateroom. Standard cabins are well-designed and functional. Some cabins accommodate a third and even a fourth person. Generally twin beds can be made up into a queen-size bed. Bedding is top quality. There are no interconnecting or single cabins. There are many wheelchair-accessible cabins, and guests with disabilities are well catered for. An in-cabin dining menu is available 24-hours.
Food and Dining
There are two main dining rooms (no Anytime Dining), and dinner is served in two set seatings in each dining room with the same waitstaff and assigned tables and tablemates. Dress code is smart casual, and on cruises longer than three days dress for a formal night for every week of sailing. Breakfast and lunch are provided in an open seating arrangement. (Of course a continental breakfast can be delivered to your stateroom, and there is a stateroom menu.) The alternative eating venue is Stirling Steakhouse (extra charge, reservations) for really good steak and barbecued chicken. Passengers booked in cabins with balconies can order several special, romantic meals to be served restaurant-style on the verandah - Ultimate Balcony Dining. Order special dietary requests before sailing.
Entertainment
In the evening having two show lounges (both theatre and cabaret style) is a great way to give passengers more entertainment choices. During her 2010 refurbishment additions included a Movies Under the Stars screen in the main pool area for new movie releases, sporting events and concert videos. Adults have their own private sunbathing area, the Sanctuary, at the front of the ship. Add seven bars and lounges, nightclub and dance floors, and the casino, to the list of evening options. Alternatively, just stroll around and shop duty-free, or for a quiet time retire to the Library/Card Room or Internet Café. Weddings are officiated by the Captain.
Welcome to our Roll Call forum for Sun Princess's "Grand Pacific World Cruise 2013 Sector" departing 26 Apr 2013. Here you can meet fellow cruisers, swap ideas, plan tours, share with others and make friends before you even leave!
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Cruise summary
Cruise: Grand Pacific World Cruise 2013 Sector
Duration: 25 nights
Ship: Sun Princess
Star rating: 
Departs: Sydney
Returns: Beijing (Tanggu)
Ports of call: 10
Forward departures:
What's onboard? ▼
- Defence Force (active and ex-serving) onboard credit program (ADF & NZDF)
- Stateroom
- Piazza-style Atrium
- Shops duty free (4)
- DINING
- Main dining rooms (2)
- Traditional Dining
- Anytime Dining (outside Australia)
- 24-h room service & menu
- Special dietary requests
- Formal dining nights
- Ultimate Balcony Dining
- The Chef’s Table
- Steakhouse & seafood
- Buffet, Pizzeria
- Internet café
- Patisserie, Wine bar
- Ice cream sundae bar
- Drink & coffee packages
- Afternoon tea
- ENTERTAINMENT
- Show lounges (2)
- Lounges, bars, nightclub, disco (7)
- Movies Under the Stars
- Onboard games, parties, tours
- Casino
- ScholarShip@Sea courses
- Library
- Art auctions
- Celebration packages
- ACTIVITIES
- Pools (4)
- Whirlpools (5)
- The Sanctuary adult oasis
- Fitness Centre, jogging track
- The Lotus Spa, beauty salon
- Sports deck & table games
- Golf simulator
- UNDER 18
- Princess Pelicans (3-7 y)
- Shockwaves (8-12 y)
- Remix (13-17 y)
- OTHER
- Weddings (selected itineraries)
- Medical centre
- No tipping, bar service charges ex Australia
- ATM on board
- Internet, phone, Wi-Fi (pay)
- Laundromat
- 220V AC (Australia)
- Mobile phone reception
- Wheelchair access
- Daily newsletter
What's included? ▼
- Accommodation as booked
- Australia: Gratuities for Sun and Dawn Princess departures, and Sea Princess departing and returning to Australia.
- All main meals on-board
- Coffee, tea & milk 24 hrs
- Oplen/anytime dining (not in Australia)
- Traditional/set time & multi-venue dining
- Cocktail or champagne reception
- In-cabin dining at no charge
- Complimentary mini-bar setup (Suites)
- Use of ship facilities - indoor & outdoor
- Entertainment - live music and/or shows, movies
- Activities - organised & individual
- Specialty lectures, workshops, classes & programs
- Bridge director on select cruises
- Kids clubs & teen programs (3-17 yrs most ships)
- Cruise Director & all English speaking staff
- Onboard newsletter
- Port maps and/or guide books
- Destination seminars and/or lectures
- 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 (unless specified)
- Casino gaming, bar expenses
- Passport & visa fees
- Insurances of all kinds
- Increases in third party charges or taxes
- Outside Australia: Service charge USD 11.50 (suites USD 12) pp/night all ages. Adjust or remove on board.
- Customary land tour gratuities are welcome
- Outside Australia Service charge: bar and wine 15%
- Items & services of a personal nature
- Medical services, vaccination costs
- Laundry and/or valet charges
- Laundry services (Complimentary for Suites & Elite Capltain's Circle
- Wi-Fi, Internet, satellite/mobile phone & fax charges
- Childcare night services (3-12 yrs, 10pm-1am)
Recent testimonials
"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 just fantastic! We loved it and highly recommend the Pacific Sun to anyone who wants a fun time. Thanks for your help booking the cruise and we will be be back soon for our next cruise."
Ron H from NSW
"We enjoyed the cruise and enjoyed smooth sailing. Thank you Anna for your help with documents etc. prior to the trip which was terrific for this novice computer operator. You could not have been more helpful. I wouldn't hesitate to book with you again. "
Helen B from VIC