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Norwegian Spirit heads back to Australia with more Sydney departures than ever before

Katie Dundas Katie Dundas
Norwegian Cruise Line offers adult cruisers the ideal way to travel with unrivalled choice for a ship of her size, plus the dining, excitement and spa amenities typically found on a much larger ship.

Cruising close to home with Norwegian Cruise Line® (NCL) has never been better. Norwegian Spirit® is returning for its biggest Australian season yet, and it’s ideal for adults seeking an elevated local cruising experience that packs a big punch with entertainment, personalised service and premium amenities.

With convenient Sydney departures, these refined itineraries will equally appeal to cruise newcomers or veteran sailors. From enriching days in port leading into world-class dining at sea, here’s how Norwegian Spirit has been curated just for discerning travellers.

About the ship

NCL norweigian spirit in phillip island
Explore Australia with Norwegian Spirit.

Norwegian Spirit offers something not often seen: a smaller ship reimagined to appeal to adults. With numerous convenient Sydney departures, enjoy a boutique feel from the moment your holiday begins – from faster embarkation to plenty of open space onboard and plenty of special touches designed to make your holiday even more meaningful.

In port, discover the delights of Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. But sea days will be just as memorable. Norwegian Spirit has been tailored to suit the interests of adult cruisers, with splash pools and kids’ clubs replaced by elevated relaxation spaces.

Get lost in a good book on a plush daybed within the adults-only Spice H2O, soak away the tension at the award-winning Mandara Spa® with Thermal Suite, or meet up with new friends for the evening’s world-class entertainment.

Everything onboard has been crafted for calm and relaxation; an oasis at sea where entertainment, exceptional service and an array of upscale dining experiences.

A culinary adventure at sea

Onda by Scarpetta inside the Norwegian Spirit.
Indulge in culinary excellence at Onda by Scarpetta.

Onboard, enjoy unrivalled dining options with 14 dining options and nine bars and lounges. Freestyle Dining has tossed aside structured dining room meal times, so guests can walk in when it suits them, or use the NCL app to easily make a booking.

Classic pub fare at The Local is perfect for a casual bite after returning to the ship, or plan a romantic dinner for later that evening, taking in the ocean views and golden sunset.

International flavours delight when you try out Norwegian Spirit ’s specialty dining, including Onda by Scarpetta, Le Bistro and Cagney’s Steakhouse, each with a curated wine menu to enhance each restaurant’s signature dishes.

All of the onboard specialty dining options have been enhanced to suit adult palettes who seek premium cuisine that incorporates the freshest local ingredients and modern design.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

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New offerings

The pool on Norwegian Spirit with stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Swim in a cruise pool with ever-changing Australian coastal views.

NCL has reimagined Norwegian Spirit to offer something innovative in the crowded cruising industry: premium cruising catered to adults, but on a smaller ship that doesn’t sacrifice on entertainment.

Both the amenities and the ship’s itineraries were carefully planned to suit adult travellers drawn to the ease of departing from Sydney. During the 2026/2027 summer season, Norwegian Spirit will return with 10 Sydney sailings – more than ever before – including five round-trip itineraries.

Get the most from a long weekend at sea or take an immersive East Coast adventure, with a selection of four- to 14-day itineraries across Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. Each taking curious travellers to a new destination almost every day.

The long weekend of a lifetime

The Mandara spa inside the Norwegian Spirit.
Fall into relaxation at the award-winning Mandara Spa.

Sometimes, a few days at sea can be just what you need to reset and recharge, which is why NCL has released its first-ever four-day Tassie taster cruise departing from Sydney. It’s designed as the ideal long weekend escape for adults seeking a reset, where guests can do as much or as little as they please.

Sea days can be spent relaxing. Perhaps an Aroma Stone Therapy massage at the award-winning Mandara Spa, or an afternoon taking in the vibrant deckside energy at Waves Pool Bar.

In Hobart, an array of shore excursions will showcase the rugged beauty and history of the island. From oyster and wine tasting, strolls through the eclectic Salamanca Market, or spotting the iconic Tasmanian devil, make the time in port your own.

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11 days around the country

The Norwegian Spirit with stunning views of the Sydney Opera House.
Wake up to Australia’s iconic sights.

Explore some of the country’s most iconic locations, enjoying the comfort of your stateroom between stops on this unique 11-day itinerary. You’ll discover the beauty of South Eastern Australia, including Kangaroo Island, each delivered right to your doorstep.

This sailing is designed to be completely relaxing yet immersive, with overnights† in both Adelaide and Melbourne. For tennis fans, the January departure is timed to pair with a day at the popular Australian Open.

As a longer itinerary, find a great balance of sea and port days. It’s ideal for adults seeking serious unhurried exploration and foodies looking forward to the opportunity to try out more of Norwegian Spirit ’s many dining options.

To book, contact your travel agent, call 1300 255 200 or visit ncl.com

†Applies to select sailings. 

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Katie Dundas
Katie Dundas is a freelance travel journalist based in Sydney but originally from the US. She’s passionate about the outdoors, adventure travel, and sustainability and can often be found hiking or swimming. Happiest near water, she loves getting off the beaten track and discovering somewhere new, often with Apple, her tiny pup.
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8 Thredbo hiking experiences you can only have in summer

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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    Thredbo in summer is a nature lover’s dream of show-stopping alpine beauty, cool mountain air and magical moonlit adventure.

    For many of us, Thredbo calls to mind shimmering slopes and snow-dusted gums, but come summer, this Alpine resort transforms into a playground of an entirely different kind. A cool mountain retreat despite the season, Thredbo summer hikes are astonishingly beautiful, criss-crossing over dramatic peaks, pristine glacial lakes and abundant flora and fauna.

    From approachable tracks for novice walkers to more challenging hikes across the Main Range and even journeys under moonlight, Thredbo puts on an unforgettable show of natural splendour all summer. Lace up your walking boots and take the chairlift from Thredbo village to embark on a self-guided exploration or a tour of the Snowy Mountains’ most compelling landscapes.

    These eight unforgettable hiking experiences are only available in summer and offer an alpine adventure like you’ve never experienced before.

    1. Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko

    Full Moon Hike to Mt Kosciuszko
    Stand atop Mt Kosciuszko at full moon.

    There’s something almost mystical about hiking by the light of a full moon. This guided experience begins with a 15-minute chairlift ride, where you’ll admire the Thredbo Valley below, bathed in the fading sun.

    Once at the top, you’ll pass rivers, alpine lakes and spot nocturnal wildlife on your way to the Kosciuszko Lookout and Lake Cootapatamba. By the time you reach the summit, sunset is well underway as you watch day give way to night and the alpine landscape magically illuminated by the lunar glow. Enjoy a hot chocolate here before following the path back to Eagles Nest, brightened by the night sky.

    This 13-kilometre hike will take place on 3 January, 2 February, and 2 April in 2026.

    2. Super Full Moon Hike

    Super Full Moon Hike in thredbo
    Take in the might of a super full moon.

    The only thing that could level up the celestial beauty of a full moon hike would be a super full moon hike. Following the same route, you’ll meet the moon when it is largest and closest to Earth by ascending to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko at an elevation of 2228 metres. From such a height, it almost feels as though you could reach out and touch its glowing surface.

    Given the rarity and splendour of the super full moon, limited spots fill up fast for this awe-inspiring hike, so be sure to book the 5 December in advance.

    3. Lunar Eclipse Hike

    Thredbo Lunar Eclipse Hike
    See dazzling celestial displays.

    What could be more extraordinary than witnessing a lunar eclipse from Australia’s highest peak? Whether you’re a keen astronomer or simply revel in nature’s beauty, this guided 13-kilometre hike will place you on top of Mount Kosciuszko just as Earth passes between the sun and moon, throwing shade over the lunar surface before transforming it with a deep-red hue.

    It’s an epic place to witness one of our galaxy’s most spectacular and rare light shows. Apart from the dazzling celestial display, you’ll also enjoy walking through the moon-bathed landscape, an evening chairlift ride, and a hot chocolate at the summit.

    Book now for 3 March.

    4. New Moon Hike

    New Moon Hike Mt Kosciuszko
    Catch the changing skies of a new moon.

    A stargazer’s delight, the darkness of a new moon gives the Milky Way full permission to dazzle with its shimmering display. Both astronomers and photographers will relish this opportunity to observe and capture the starry skyscape from the lofty height of Australia’s highest peak, Mount Kosciuszko. Departing Thredbo Village at dusk and leaving its twinkling lights far below, you’ll arrive at the summit in time to see the sun slip away and the stars appear.

    Catch this hike during the new moon lunar phase on 20 December, 19 January, 17 February, 19 March or 17 April.

    5. Thredbo River Track

    Thredbo River Track
    Take yourself along the Thredbo River Track.

    Embark on a gentle entry into the Snowy Mountain scenery with an amble along the Thredbo River. This self-guided hike hugs the river and wanders along the valley floor, revealing snow gum forests, swimming holes and little waterfalls that make for revitalising cold plunges in the summer heat.

    6. Merritts Nature Track

    Merritts Nature Track thredbo summer hikes
    Stop at swimming holes along the way.

    On warm summer days, venturing into the cooler air of Thredbo’s alpine tracks offers relief from the heat. Particularly if you set course for the four-kilometre Merritts Nature Track, where there are opportunities to take a refreshing dip in swimming holes along the way.

    The two-to-three-hour self-guided hike meanders through towering ancient trees (dubbed the ‘Pixie Forest’ by locals), takes in stunning mountain vistas and is soundtracked by the melody of birdsong. Stop for a picnic and discover a hidden natural infinity pool, the location of which is given away by the roar of a cascading waterfall.

    7. Mt Kosciuszko Summit Tour

    Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko's summit.
    Follow a guide along Mt Kosciuszko’s summit.

    While you can easily steer yourself to Australia’s most iconic peak without a guide, following an expert guide to the summit of Mount Kosciuszko will colour your experience with a deeper knowledge of the landscape and its wild inhabitants. The 13-kilometre return trail puts the alpine scenery on display with 360-degree views from the highest spot in the country.

    The walk begins at the top of the Kosciuszko Chairlift and takes around four to six hours to complete, but is gentle enough to be embarked upon by all ages.

    8. Snowies Alpine Walk Experience

    Snowies Alpine Walk Experience
    Join a two- or three-day experience along Snowies Alpine Walk.

    If you’re looking to truly untether from daily life and embark on a real immersion in Thredbo’s stunning alpine scenery, pack your hiking boots for the newest multi-day walk in the mountains. The Snowies Alpine Walk can be tackled over two or three days and includes nightly accommodation in the iconic Thredbo Alpine Hotel, daily buffet breakfast, packed lunch and dinner vouchers, plus daily transfers to and from trail heads in a brand-new Defender.

    The two-day experience covers 24 kilometres, while the three-day experience almost doubles that at 44 kilometres. Along the way, explore barely trod landscapes, vast high-country plains and uplifting mountain horizons.

    Discover the full offering of summer hikes in Thredbo at thredbo.com.au.