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

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 experiences that prove The Bellarine is the ultimate multi-gen getaway

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
    No matter your age and no matter your interests, Victoria’s coastal Bellarine region makes for a memorable getaway for the whole family.

    Curving into Port Phillip Bay and extending south from Geelong, The Bellarine is a gorgeous coast-meets-country destination. It’s a captivating mix of beachside towns, rolling farms and vineyards, effortlessly cool eating and drinking spots and coastal vistas that seem to stretch beyond the horizon.

    Among its many highlights is a plethora of family-friendly activities to suit all ages and all interests. Here’s your guide to the ultimate Bellarine getaway guaranteed to keep every generation happy.

    1. Tuckerberry Hill Farm

    Tuckerberry Hill Farm
    Pick your own fruit at Tuckerberry Hill Farm.

    There may be no better way to spend an early morning than by foraging and feasting on your own bounty of berries. At Tuckerberry Hill Farm, you can pick blueberries, strawberries and stone fruit from November through March. Take them home or enjoy on the farm’s sun-dappled grounds.

    Tuckerberry also has a regular market selling farm-fresh produce, plus an inviting on-site cafe doing light lunches, drinks, home-baked treats and condiments – many of which incorporate the farm’s own harvest.

    2. The Oxley Estate

    The Oxley Estate
    Wake up to the neighbours.

    A memorable holiday starts with a memorable place to stay, and The Oxley Estate delivers. Situated in the relaxed coastal town of Portarlington, the sprawling site offers thoughtfully styled rooms and activities that’ll keep both parents and kids entertained.

    Wander the fragrant rose gardens, olive grove and fruit-laden orchards. Meet the resident alpacas, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens and ducks. Challenge your crew to a round of giant chess or mini golf. Or cool off in the shimmering saltwater pool after a busy day of exploring.

    Different room types cater to different groups, with the largest able to comfortably sleep eight.

    3. Oneday Estate

    Oneday Estate
    Taste small batch wines at Oneday Estate.

    Oneday Estate is a must-visit, featuring a restaurant, winery and bar. The winery lets you try small-batch, estate-grown shiraz, pinot noir and riesling. It’s also a vibrant and character-filled Sunday lunch spot in an eclectic stone-and-timber hall crafted from recycled materials and 100-year-old relics repurposed from the surrounding region.

    The on-site eatery and bar hosts weekly Sunday Sessions accompanied by tunes from local musicians, a buzzy atmosphere and flavour-packed food and drink. Order a round of delicious woodfired pizzas with toppings to suit all tastes, alongside a glass of Oneday’s signature wine.

    4. BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon

    BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon
    Kids will love BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon.

    BIG4 holiday parks are renowned for their all-ages appeal, and BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon in the coastal enclave of Queenscliff is no different. The pool and gym are a given, but there’s also a playground, pickleball and basketball courts, a jumbo-sized jump pad, an interactive games arena and an indoor games room equipped with toys, activities and entertainment.

    The diverse range of accommodation spans compact studios designed for three guests, all the way up to expansive beach houses accommodating up to 10, providing comfort and flexibility to suit every size of family.

    5. Bellarine Railway

    Bellarine Railway
    Take a journey aboard the Bellarine Railway.

    If your entourage includes any locomotive enthusiasts, book a journey aboard the Bellarine Railway. The more than 100-year-old steam train transports you to a bygone era and takes you through the rolling farmland and windswept coastal landscapes that make The Bellarine so beautiful.

    The Swan Bay Express is an easy 45-minute ride perfect for younger passengers (and even allows dogs on board), or you could opt for a themed trip. There are seasonal events like the Polar Express (a festive favourite in the lead-up to Christmas), along with the Blues Train (a high-energy experience of live music and dancing) and The Q Train (a roving fine-dining feast celebrating regional produce).

    6. The Dunes

    waiter holding desserts at The Dunes, the bellarine
    Save room for dessert. (Image: Visit Vic)

    The Dunes offers the perfect balance of polished and playful, a breezy beachside bar and restaurant that appeals to adults and kids alike.

    Feast on moreish snacks, share plates and mains from the Italian-inspired menu, or a selection of San Marzano-topped pizzas fresh from the wood-fired oven. Pair your meal with a classic cocktail, an ice-cold beer or a glass from the generous drinks menu, which brims with local drops. Little ones are well catered for with a line-up of kid-approved meals for breakfast and lunch.

    If you’re simply swinging by en route to the family-friendly beach, grab a bite at The Dunes’ beachside kiosk before strolling down for a paddle or surf.

    7. Sea All Dolphin Swims

    dolphins playing in The Bellarine
    Spot the locals with Sea All Dolphin Swims. (Image: Visit Vic)

    The sparkling waters around The Bellarine are home to dolphins, fur seals, plus a flurry of seabirds. Sea All Dolphin Swims lets you see some of these magnificent animals up close aboard one of their small-group vessels.

    Head out on a sightseeing tour and spot local wildlife darting around the boat, or dive right in with a swim adventure tour. You’ll be swimming alongside dolphins and seals in their natural habitat – a bucket-list experience you won’t forget fast.

    Swimming and snorkelling gear is provided, and guides are trained to ensure a gentle, eco-friendly encounter for both swimmers and sea creatures.

     8. Jack Rabbit

    aerial of jack rabbit winery and vineyard
    Everyone has a menu to enjoy at Jack Rabbit. (Image: Visit Vic)

    Jack Rabbit is a one-stop dining destination, with a casual cafe and refined restaurant in one place.

    If your mood leans laid-back, the House of Jack Rabbit is a lovely spot for brunch, lunch or dinner. The cafe serves a produce-driven all-day menu filled with seasonal mains, generous sharing platters and a playful kids menu to suit even the pickiest of eaters.

    If you’re after something more elevated, Jack Rabbit Restaurant does plates that change with the seasons and incorporate plenty of local produce. Even younger guests are well catered to, with a considered yet familiar kids’ menu that’s just as vibrant as the grown-up one.

    To start planning your trip or for more inspiration, head to visitgeelongbellarine.com.au