More about Newcastle (Australia)
Why Cruise to Newcastle (Australia)?
The Port of Newcastle runs a free shuttle bus into the city center
The relaxed atmosphere may be too quiet for some visitors
A welcoming city with beautiful surf beaches, waterfront bars, restaurants and a fort
Newcastle (Australia) Cruise Port Facilities?
A volunteer meet-and-greet team is on hand at the Channel Berth as passengers disembark to answer questions, distribute the Cruise Arrival Guide and direct you to tour coaches, shuttle buses, taxis and private pick-up areas.
Good to Know?
Although Newcastle is blessed with several beautiful surf beaches, you must always swim between the flags and -- if the beach is displaying a 'closed' sign -- don't give in to the temptation to go for a dip as conditions can be dangerous or there could be sharks in the area.
Getting Around?
A free shuttle bus will take you from the cruise terminal to Queens Wharf. Once you're there, getting around Newcastle is easy, and there are several transport options.
By Bus: There's a free bus service in the central city zone and timetables are available at the Maritime Centre.
By Taxi: Taxis service the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Hunter Valley areas and wheelchair-accessible taxis are available on request.
By Rental Car: Hertz car rentals is located at Maitland Road in the city centre; you can book in advance on the company's website.
By Ferry: If you're planning on an independent sand-dune adventure or just want to spend a day on Stockton Beach, the Newcastle to Stockton Ferry Service route runs every half hour from 5.15am to midnight every day; the Newcastle terminal is at Queens Wharf. Central Newcastle is very easy to walk around and if you want to go a little further afield you can hire a bike from Metro Cycles at 2 Bellevue Street.
By Rickshaw: Using pedal-powered pedicabs, Rickshaw Revolution (0477 776 245) offers a fun way to get around. City tours are also available with a rider-guide who shares stories of their personal and historic knowledge of Newcastle.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The local currency is the Australian dollar. For current currency conversion figures, visit www.xe.com. There are several ATMs and banks in the city for obtaining Australian dollars. Credit cards are widely accepted.
Language?
English, with an Aussie accent, is spoken in Newcastle. Locals are referred to as "Novocastrians".
Where You're Docked?
Cruise ships dock at the Channel Berth at the Carrington terminal. A free shuttle bus, organised by the Port of Newcastle, takes passengers to and from Queens Wharf, a 10-minute drive away, where you'll find a visitor information centre at the Maritime Centre, as well as a few waterfront places to eat and drink while watching ships, tug boats and a local ferry. A scenic tram ride departs from Queens Wharf, with commentary provided by the driver over 1.5 hours. Walk further up the street to the city centre, where there are numerous attractions, restaurants and beaches.
A new cruise terminal is set to be built on the same site in 2018.
Novotel Newcastle Beach: A great place for cruise passengers to stay is the Novotel, located near the beach, restaurants, cafes and bars, and a short stroll to art galleries, coastal walks and shopping areas. Guest rooms are modern and spacious, and family rooms are also available, with a restaurant and gym onsite. (5 King St, Newcastle; 02 4032 3700)