Why a Norwegian Spirit cruise is the perfect summer holiday

Imagine a holiday spending days poolside, peacefully reclining with cocktail in hand, or discovering a port at your own pace before returning to be pampered in a spacious spa.

Come nightfall, an intimate table for two awaits, where you can savour exemplary cuisine before enjoying a Broadway-style live stage production. And the next day, a brand new adventure awaits.

Enter Norwegian Spirit , the last of the major ships to return to Australian waters, arriving in Sydney Harbour on 21 December 2022.

Norwegian Spirit cruise line atrium — Marvel at the impressive bow-to-stern US$100 million refurbishment.

She’s the crowning glory in Australia’s great cruise comeback , marking the return of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) after an almost three-year absence from the region. Deliberately designed to be different, with an impressive bow-to-stern US$100 million refurbishment, NCL is taking cruising to the next level.

What’s on board Norwegian Spirit?

The revitalised Norwegian Spirit is quite unlike any other ship sailing in our waters. Appealing to the adult cruiser while epitomising the Australian laid-back lifestyle, the ship has recently undergone the most extensive makeover in NCL’s 55-year history.

There are 14 brand new venues, including Spice H20, an adults-only pool and lounge area by day that transforms into a cocktail lounge and open-air nightclub at night.

Onda by Scarpetta onboard Norwegian Spirit cruise line — Delight in contemporary Italian at the all-new Onda by Scarpetta.

Dining choices are vast – in fact, there are more dining options than cruise nights, including culinary theatrics at Teppanyaki, fine French fare at Le Bistro, and contemporary Italian at the all-new Onda by Scarpetta.

After dinner, take in a spectacular show; highlights of NCL’s award-winning entertainment line-up include Blazing Boots, a full-scale production showcasing the best of country and rock’n’roll, and Elements, a visual feast of acrobatics and dance.

Dedicate a day or more to recharge in the newly doubled-in-size Mandara Spa , which now features a thermal suite that includes a steam room, sauna and shower experience, as well as luxuriously warm heated-tile loungers that are positioned to enjoy endless ocean vistas.

Norwegian Spirit cruise line pool — Relax by the pool when your spa treatment is over.

In the thermal suite, herbal steam and sauna grottos cleanse the body with gentle heat, and you can also choose from an extensive spa menu, with over 50 specialty treatments offered by well-trained massage therapists. It’s no surprise that Mandara Spa was voted World’s Best Cruise Spa by The World Spa Awards.

At the end of the day, stretch out in style in your spacious suite, or take in the view from your private perch in a balcony stateroom featuring floor-to-ceiling glass doors. All staterooms have been completely reimagined and feature a fresh colour palette in modern blues, greys and wood finishes.

Norwegian Spirit cruise line stateroom — Take in the view from your private balcony when you stay in a stateroom.

The best NCL deals

Astute cruisers know to look for value deals in their fare upfront so there’ll be no nasty surprises when the final bill arrives, and NCL has fantastic new offers designed to allow Australian cruisers to sail with more included.

The Free At Sea bonus offers – including a beverage package covering spirits, cocktails, wines, draft beer, juice and soft drink, a wi-fi package, a US$50 shore excursions credit, and a dining package to savour meals at any specialty dining venue – mean all the pricing guesswork is taken out for you.

Norwegian Spirit cruise line Champagne Bar — Grab a drink at the Champagne Bar.

Step onboard knowing all you need to do is sit back and relax; there’s never been a better way to explore the wonders of our own backyard than aboard the reimagined Norwegian Spirit.

Norwegian Spirit’s incredible itineraries

For her debut season Down Under, Norwegian Spirit will sail a selection of open-jaw sailings between dual homeports of Sydney and Auckland between December 2022 and March 2023, exploring ports of exquisite natural beauty alongside cosmopolitan cities.

Visit 10 ports in 12 days, taking in the NSW south coast town of Eden, all that Melbourne has to offer, and the bounty of Burnie in Tasmania, before sailing across to marvel at the dramatic glaciers and cliffs of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park.

Norwegian Spirit cruise line, New Zealand — Sail around the dramatic glaciers and cliffs of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park.

Among Fiordland’s spectacular landscapes on the South Island you can experience the awe of Dusky Sound’s natural beauty. Cruisers can then discover the French heritage buildings of Akaroa, the many cultural delights of Wellington, the Art Deco architecture of Napier, and the bubbling geysers and mud baths of Tauranga, before disembarking in Auckland.

In March 2023, Norwegian Spirit will be sailing to Tahiti from Sydney, with highlights including the opportunity to dive into the turquoise waters of American Samoa, Fiji, the Isle of Pines and Mystery Island.

Norwegian Spirit cruise line in Sydney harbour — Norwegian Spirit is returning to Sydney Harbour in December.

Experience some of the world’s most incredible beaches and islands on the 15-day adventure, where soft sand, calm waters and cooling breezes through the palms await.

There are also incredible cultural experiences on offer, including the opportunity to visit markets and villages.

The journey ends in the idyllic waters of French Polynesia, stopping in at Raiatea and Moorea before disembarking in Papeete, Tahiti.

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.

Why Norwegian Spirit may be the summer holiday you’ve been looking for