My husband and I met quite a few folks prior to the cruise on Cruise Critic Roll Call. An organized dinner was planned at Fortune of War (a claimed oldest pub in Sydney) the night prior to sailing so many of the members could actually meet. It was a great plan and fun opportunity to get to know names and faces for seeing each other on the cruise. One of the Sydney couples advised us to stroll to the harbor and view the beautiful evening music and color show for the Opera House. We never would have known that this existed without meeting and chatting to a new friend. What a great way to begin this cruise vacation!

The embarkation process for the ship went extremely quickly which must have meant it was very well organized. Look for the luggage porters outside before entering the building, you will notice where all the luggage commotion is! The muster went by quickly and we were happy that we no longer were required to lug the life preservers with us to participate.

Upon departing Sydney harbor, a few of us got together at the Pool Bar for drinks and getting to know each other, followed by gathering along the rails to view the gorgeous harbor and islands as we cruised out to the Pacific. After experiencing many beautiful harbors (San Francisco, New York, Venice, etc.) and recalling special characteristics as to what makes them special, I can honestly say that Sydney will be the most memorable. Read more