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.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

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