Disney Wonder Cruise Has Arrived In Australia

Disney Cruise Line is ready to bring some magic to the Australian cruise scene.

Arriving in Sydney on Friday, Disney Wonder is the first Disney Cruise Line ship to reach Aussie shores , bringing with it ‘Disney Magic at Sea’ – the term coined by Disney to describe Disney holidays and experiences at sea.

Exterior of Disney Wonder cruise ship at sea — *Disney Wonder* has started its Australia and New Zealand sailings. (Image: Todd Anderson)

Having visited Disneyland in California earlier this year, I was excited to jump onboard and experience a taste of Disney on home soil. I wasn’t disappointed.

I’m not a die-hard Disney fan, but there is an undeniable energy when you’re immersed in the world of Disney. The cruise ship was no different. As soon as I stepped into the atrium, I was instantly transported to the odd perfection that encompassed the ship – every detail so intricate and well thought out.

Captains Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at funnel of Disney Wonder cruise ship — The *Disney Wonder* allows families to set sail on one-of-a-kind itineraries in Australia and New Zealand. (Image: Steven Diaz)

What can kids do onboard?

For families, Disney Wonder is a dream holiday. From ages three to 12 (although I’d probably only suggest up to 11) kids can immerse themselves in the Oceaneer Club, a kids club that includes Andy’s Room from Toy Story where children will experience being ‘toy-sized’ as they play with the larger-than-life characters from the animated film.

Kids playing with Toy Story characters in Andy's Room in Disney’s Oceaneer Club on Disney Wonder — In the vibrantly coloured Andy’s Room, the world of the Disney and Pixar “Toy Story" films comes to life. (Image: Amy Smith)

If your kids are under three, the It’s a Small World Nursery will welcome them into its patchwork of pastel colours. If they’re aged 11 to 14, they can enjoy the Edge club with both free-form and structured activities, from video games and dancing on the dance floor to themed nights.

If you’re bringing teens aged 13 to 17 onboard, the Vibe club will be their ultimate spot to hang out. With an open-plan loft-inspired lounge, there will be plenty of room for activities. From music, gaming and virtual reality sessions to smoothie workshops and spa treatments at the ‘Chill Spa’, a designated spot in the Senses Spa and Salon, they’ll be more than happy to do their own thing.

Families playing in the pool at AquaLab onboard Disney Wonder — In the AquaLab, guests can soak in the sun and get soaked at this interactive water playground open to kids aged three and older.

Entertainment

The entertainment onboard Disney Wonder is world-class. There are three Broadway-style stage shows that will entertain all ages. We watched Disney Dreams – An Enchanted Classic, and it was so cute – I loved it. The other shows available are Frozen, A Musical Spectacular and The Golden Mickeys.

There are also movies shown in the Walt Disney Theatre, as well as on deck by the family pool and in the Buena Vista Theatre, a cinema that screens Disney films as they are released on land.

The Golden Mickey’s stage show on Disney Wonder — “The Golden Mickeys" celebrates the musical heritage of Disney animated films, immersing guests in all the glamour and excitement of a Hollywood awards gala. (Image: Steven Diaz)

What can adults do onboard?

Now, whether your kids are busy in their age-appropriate clubs, or you’re onboard child-free, the fun is only just beginning. There are a number of adults-only locations that will let you fully relax in peace.

The Quiet Cove Pool allows guests over 18 to enjoy a peaceful swim, to relax in the deck chairs or indulge in a cocktail at the connected Cove Cafe.

Cove Cafe interior on Disney Wonder — Cove Cafe is the perfect place to sip a coffee in the day and a wine or a cocktail in the evening. (Image: Kent Phillips)

At the luxurious Senses Spa and Salon, adults can indulge in spa treatments, massages, manicures, pedicures, and a rainforest-themed aromatherapy steam room and sauna.

There is also a fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment, personal training sessions, yoga, Pilates, aerobics and more.

If you want to immerse in the nightlife, Disney Wonder has the charming English-style Crown and Fin Pub to watch some sports and have a pint. If you’re observant, you might be able to pick up on subtle nods to classic Disney films set in London through artwork and props.

There is also the Cadillac Lounge, an intimate piano bar that pays homage to the Rat Pack at their peak in Hollywood in the late 1950s, and Azure, a trendy nightclub designed to look like the ocean.

Exterior of Crown and Fin pub on Disney Wonder — Crown and Fin invites guests to take a jaunt to an authentic English tavern. (Image: Amy Smith)

Dining on Disney Wonder

There are three themed dining experiences on Disney Wonder and guests rotate between the three while onboard, with the same serving team each night offering personalised service.

We dined at Animator’s Palate, where guests become a part of the ‘Drawn to Magic’ animation show that happens throughout the meal. It was so fun and the food was tasty.

Family having dinner at Animator’s Palate on Disney Wonder — At Animator’s Palate, the room comes to life as guests are immersed in Disney animation. (Image: Matt Stroshane)

The other restaurants are Tiana’s Place, a New Orleans-inspired restaurant that offers southern-style food and live jazz entertainment, and Tritons, a more sophisticated restaurant with The Little Mermaid touches throughout the venue.

The French Quarter Lounge on Disney Wonder — Just before you enter Tiana’s Place, you’ll be met with the French Quarter Lounge, a New Orleans-inspired watering hole exclusive to the *Disney Wonder*. (Image: Ken Phillips)

Book now for your Australia and New Zealand Disney Magic at Sea sailings from October 2024 to February 2025.

Summer transforms the Northern Territory into a lush paradise of colour and life, as a visit during the ‘low-season’ reveals secrets the locals willingly share.

Waterlilies bloom, floodplains are alive with birdlife, waterfalls are gushing, and everywhere the green is dazzling. Summer in the Top End and the Red Centre is a kaleidoscope of unexpected wonders that delight and surprise visitors. Of course, the locals know only too well that the Northern Territory low season is often the best time to see and experience this amazing part of Australia.

Here are some of the reasons why savvy travellers – avoiding the crowds – are discovering a new dimension to the Territory. Remember that you’ll need a Parks Pass to visit national parks.

1. Take a dip in the Florence Falls waterhole

Wander through savanna woodland and monsoon forest to discover the perfect place to cool off – the waterhole at the base of spectacular Florence Falls in the magnificent Litchfield National Park , just 90 minutes’ drive from Darwin. The falls flow year-round but are most spectacular during the summer. Camping is available nearby but bookings are essential and must be made online before you visit.

Surrounded by lush forest, a woman cools off in Florence Falls, just one of many incredible things to do in the Northern Territory. — Cool off beneath the cascading waters of Florence Falls. (Image: Joshua Griffin)

2. Wind down at Buley Rock Hole

Another popular local swimming spot in Litchfield National Park is Buley Rock Hole , open year-round. This is a great place to wind down after exploring everything the park has to offer, including towering termite mounds. Wade through the rock pools, soak up the scenic bush or just lie back and relax as the cool water rolls over you.

Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park — Let the cool water wash over you. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Tour the Tiwi Islands

The Tiwi Islands , a scenic 80km flight from Darwin across the narrow Clarence and Dundas Straits, reveal a different side to the Territory, with their own distinctive culture. Take a day tour with Tiwi by Design to visit Bathurst Island and learn about creation stories, the Mission days, World War II history and the islanders’ obsession with AFL!

Take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of Tiwi Design’s screen-printing workshop and pick up a great souvenir in the form of art. Choose from contemporary or traditional Tiwi designs and a wide range of work including carvings, paintings, pottery, printmaking, bark paintings and tunga (bark baskets).

A creative moment shared inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing space. — Take a peek inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing studio. (Image: Tourism NT)

4. Dine in Darwin

Foodies are spoilt for choice in multi-cultural Darwin. Try Sri Lankan flavours at Ella by Minoli, where Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva creates delectable dishes, or head to Charlie’s of Darwin for gin-tasting, cocktails and more. Bowls of fragrant laksa, excellent coffee, fresh vegetables and authentic crafts are all part of a weekend visit to Darwin’s Parap Markets , Rapid Creek Markets and the Nightcliff Markets .

Prefer to catch your own dinner? Book a Top End fishing charter to bag a barramundi – and from October register for the annual Million Dollar Fish competition. Hooking one of the tagged barra released each year in waterways across the Territory could win you up to $1 million.

A bowl of Laksa. — Eat your way through multicultural Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Up close with Uluṟu

The magnificent monolith Uluṟu is even more magical when the summer rains fall. When it rains on The Rock, the locals come out to watch – consider yourself lucky if that happens when you visit. Waterfalls cascading off the sides of Uluṟu is a sight that relatively few tourists see.

There’s so much to do at Uluṟu, from guided walks to learn the stories of the Aṉangu people and the ancient landscape they live in to scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view or a leisurely walk around the base of Uluṟu. Book ahead to spend the evening wandering through the Field of Light installation by Bruce Munro.

A closer look at Uluru and uncover its ancient stories, sacred sites, and striking natural beauty – one of the most iconic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Discover the details that make Uluṟu truly sacred. (Image: Tourism NT)

6. Drive the Red Centre Way

From Alice Springs, take an epic road trip along the Red Centre Way, taking in Uluru and Watarrka National Park, home to the magnificent Kings Canyon. Allow at least a week to drive through the red heart of Australia by 4WD, a little longer on the sealed road by 2WD vehicle, travelling through ochre deserts, palm-lined valleys and dramatic gorges. Stop off at waterholes for a refreshing dip along the way.

Kings Canyon offers hiking options for all levels of fitness, from the three-hour Rim Walk atop soaring sandstone walls to the gentler Kings Creek Walk. Either way, you’ll have breathtaking views.

SEIT Outback Australia is a small group touring specialist offering exciting, adventurous, exclusive and specialised iconic, pioneering and cultural touring in the Red Centre of Australia, giving you the time to learn, absorb and relax in the heart of Australia.<br /><br />This innovative tour company focuses on providing clients with the ultimate interpretive touring experiences with a range of products and customised touring itineraries for small groups and bespoke private charters.<br /><br />The company bases its philosophies from the key words of Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task (SEIT). — Drive through Australia’s heart. (Image: Outback Australia Tours)

7. Take a walk at Kata Tjuṯa

Head out early to tackle the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuṯa . This natural wonder, also known as The Olgas, is a labyrinth of soaring ochre domes that glow golden at sunrise and sunset (the walk may be closed during the middle of the day as temperatures rise).

Walking trails range from easy to longer, more difficult tracks. At the Kata Tjuṯa dune viewing area, take in the panoramic view of the domes. The longest of the trails is the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7.4km circuit that winds between the domes and through creek beds. It’s moderately difficult and steep in places, but offers stunning views – and occasional encounters with kangaroos.

The Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Northern Territory, especially at sunrise when the domes glow golden. — Step into the golden light of Kata Tjuṯa. (Image: Tourism NT)

8. Explore Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges

Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park lies 135km west of Alice Springs, with many fascinating natural features to beguile visitors. The ‘West Macs’ formations include chasms, gorges and waterholes – take your swimsuit for a dip at Ormiston Gorge waterhole, open year-round. The Ormiston Pound Walk is a three to four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre and loops back along the gorge via the main waterhole. Other places of interest in the park include Simpsons Gap , Standley Chasm , Ellery Creek Big Hole and Glen Helen .

Soaking in the serenity of Ormiston Gorge, these two travellers enjoy one of the most scenic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Take the plunge at Ormiston Gorge waterhole. (Image: Joshua Griffin Litchfield)

Start planning the NT road trip of a lifetime at northernterritory.com

Disney Wonder has arrived in Australia for its debut season