hero media

The top 7 stops on Norwegian Spirit’s new Aussie departures

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
Discover new cruise itineraries that stay close to home and are built around food, wine and slow exploration.

Norwegian Spirit’s new Australian sailings mark a notable shift in the local cruise landscape. Rather than catering primarily to families with water parks and kids’ clubs, these itineraries are designed with adult travellers firmly in mind, focusing on food, wine, culture and slower, more immersive experiences.

There are practical advantages, too. More departures from Sydney reduce the need for domestic flights, while open-jaw flexibility allows travellers to start or finish in Auckland without complicated repositioning logistics. Overnight calls in cities like Melbourne and Adelaide also mean evenings are no longer spent rushing back to the ship, opening the door to theatre shows, long dinners and regional day trips that simply aren’t possible on traditional port-day schedules.

From premium wine regions to vibrant dining capitals and nature-rich islands, here are the must-visit Norwegian Spirit stops on its new Australian itineraries.

1. Adelaide, SA

Adelaide at sunset
There is so much to see and do beyond Adelaide’s CBD. (Credit: joeyjoenes)

Adelaide is one of the standout ports on Norwegian Spirit’s itineraries, largely because of what lies just beyond the city limits. With overnight calls built into the schedule, travellers have the rare opportunity to venture deeper into South Australia’s world-renowned wine regions.

The Barossa Valley is often the star attraction. Just over an hour from the port, it offers historic cellar doors, heritage estates and bold, full-bodied shiraz that has helped define Australia’s global wine reputation. Many shore excursions pair tastings with long vineyard lunches, transforming a simple day trip into a memorable culinary experience.

McLaren Vale provides a contrasting yet equally compelling option. Known for its coastal scenery and contemporary wine culture, it offers a more modern take on cellar-door hospitality, often blending Mediterranean-style cuisine with innovative boutique wineries.

Back in Adelaide itself, travellers can spend evenings exploring one of Australia’s most exciting food scenes. From fresh seafood and local produce at Adelaide Central Market to refined restaurants championing South Australian ingredients, the city rewards slow exploration rather than rushed sightseeing.

2. Kangaroo Island, SA

Couple walking on Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is a real highlight. (Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Kangaroo Island delivers a very different kind of highlight. Here, luxury is defined not by urban sophistication but by nature, exclusivity and sustainability.

Shore experiences often focus on small-group encounters, allowing travellers to explore remote landscapes and wildlife habitats without crowds. Kangaroos, sea lions and native birdlife are common sights, and conservation-focused tours provide insight into the island’s delicate ecosystems.

Food lovers will find plenty to enjoy as well. The island’s artisanal producers create everything from honey and gin to cheeses and gourmet condiments, many of which can be sampled during curated tasting experiences.

For those seeking indulgence, luxury lodges offer private dining and immersive culinary experiences showcasing the island’s produce. It’s a stop that perfectly balances natural beauty with refined, low-impact tourism.

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

AI Prompt

3. Melbourne, Vic

Federation Square in Melbourne at sunset
Explore Melbourne on your port stop.

Melbourne is another highlight enhanced by overnight scheduling, allowing travellers to experience the city beyond its daytime attractions.

By day, excursions often venture into the Yarra Valley, one of Australia’s premier cool-climate wine regions. Visitors can sample elegant pinot noir and chardonnay while enjoying vineyard lunches that pair regional produce with sweeping countryside views.

Within the city, Melbourne’s cultural scene offers endless possibilities. Galleries, live music venues and historic theatres provide a rich mix of experiences, while its laneway bar culture truly comes alive after dark.

The overnight stay means travellers can dine at acclaimed restaurants, sip cocktails in hidden bars or simply soak up the city’s atmosphere without watching the clock. It’s a rare luxury on a cruise itinerary and one that significantly enhances the overall experience.

4. Sydney, NSW

Norwegian Spirit sailing in Sydney Harbour
Sydney is both a key port of call and a major departure hub.

Sydney plays a dual role on Norwegian Spirit’s itineraries, serving as both a key port of call and a major departure hub.

For Australian travellers, local departures from Sydney represent a significant advantage. The ability to embark without needing additional flights simplifies travel planning and reduces overall costs and logistics.

The harbour itself provides one of the world’s most spectacular cruise backdrops, whether arriving or departing. Travellers can easily extend their journey by exploring Sydney’s coastal walks, world-class dining scene and iconic landmarks before or after their cruise.

This accessibility helps make Norwegian Spirit’s itineraries feel more relaxed and approachable from the very start.

5. Auckland, New Zealand

Norwegian Spirit sailing by Cape Kidnappers, NZ
Enjoy a broader New Zealand itinerary on Norwegian Spirit.

Auckland adds an extra layer of flexibility to these itineraries thanks to open-jaw sailing options. Travellers can begin or end their cruise here, making it easier to combine the voyage with a broader New Zealand itinerary.

The city itself offers a compelling mix of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Harbourfront dining precincts, vibrant markets and nearby volcanic landscapes create plenty of opportunities for exploration.

Waiheke Island, just a short ferry ride away, is a favourite extension for many travellers. Its boutique wineries, coastal views and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect complement to the wine-focused experiences found across the Australian ports.

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

6. Tasmania (select itineraries)

Sullivan's cove of Hobart harbour with historic fishing boat in front of heritage houses on city waterfront.
Some itineraries dock in Hobart. (Credit: Getty Images / zetter)

On select sailings, Tasmania adds another dimension to Norwegian Spirit’s destination lineup. Known for its pristine landscapes, cool-climate produce and thriving food scene, the island state appeals strongly to travellers seeking nature-led experiences.

Ports like Hobart provide access to renowned attractions such as historic waterfront precincts, local distilleries and farm-to-table dining experiences. Day trips into the surrounding wilderness areas offer dramatic coastal scenery and wildlife encounters.

Tasmania’s emphasis on artisanal food and wine aligns seamlessly with the broader theme of Norwegian Spirit’s itineraries.

7. Coastal wine regions and regional excursions

Norwegian Spirit sailing near Phillip Island
Enjoy immersive experiences at your port stops.

Beyond specific ports, one of the defining features of Norwegian Spirit’s new sailings is their strong connection to nearby wine regions.

From the Barossa and McLaren Vale near Adelaide to the Yarra Valley outside Melbourne, these excursions allow travellers to experience some of Australia’s most prestigious wine destinations without the need for extended inland travel.

These shore experiences are typically tailored to smaller groups and focus on curated tastings, regional cuisine and immersive storytelling, making them especially appealing to travellers interested in culinary exploration.

Why these itineraries stand out

Norwegian Spirit sailing out at sea
Norwegian Spirit has a quieter onboard atmosphere.

Norwegian Spirit’s Australian sailings distinguish themselves through a clear focus on adult travellers. The ship itself replaced child-centric features, like kid’s clubs, with adult-focused ones, creating a quieter onboard atmosphere that mirrors the refined experiences offered onshore.

Combined with overnight port stays, flexible embarkation options and an emphasis on food, wine and cultural exploration, these itineraries offer a distinctly different approach to cruising in Australian waters.

For travellers seeking a journey centred on slow travel, gourmet experiences and meaningful destination immersion, Norwegian Spirit’s new routes provide a compelling alternative to more traditional cruise offerings.

Want to see more stories from Australian Traveller in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set Australian Traveller as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "Australian Traveller". That's it.
Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her 4+ years at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? South Australia and The Kimberley.
View profile and articles
The Norwegian Spirit with stunning views of the Sydney Opera House.
Cruising

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.

Read more
Spice H20 on Norwegian Spirit in sydney harbour
Cruising

The cruise to take when you want to leave the kids at home

An adults-leaning cruise makes this the easy, low-stress way to sail without the family-ship chaos.

Read more
Anthem of the Seas docked in Sydney harbour
Cruising

Everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas

Sailing from Sydney for the first time, Anthem of the Seas is an award-winning ship.

Read more
Milford Sounds, New Zealand
Cruising

The best itineraries for first-time cruisers

Whether you’re into high-end food and wine or looking to entertain your young family, there’s a cruise out there for you. The trick is knowing where to look, writes Dilvin Yasa.

Read more

From coast to bush: these are Gippsland’s best hikes

    Michael Turtle Michael Turtle
    Continue

    Video credit: Tourism Australia

    From coast to mountains, hiking in Gippsland offers a stunning array of landscapes, with trails that take you deep into the region’s heritage.

    I step out onto the sand and it cries out underfoot. Kweek! I take another step and there’s another little yelp. Screet! Picking up the pace, the sounds follow me like my shadow, all the way down to the water. It’s obvious how this spot got its name – Squeaky Beach – from the rounded grains of quartz that make the distinctive sounds under pressure.

    For many, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the gateway to Gippsland, and the best way to explore it is by walking its network of hiking trails, from coastal gems such as Squeaky Beach through to the bushland, among the wildlife. But it’s still just a taste of what you’ll find on foot in the region.

    Venture a bit further into Gippsland and you’ll discover the lakes, the rainforest, and the alpine peaks, each changing with the season and offering summer strolls or winter walks. Just like that squeaky sand, each step along these trails has something to tell you: perhaps a story about an ancient spirit or a pioneering search for fortune.

    The best coastal hikes in Gippsland

    sunset at Wilsons Promontory National Park
    Wilsons Promontory National Park is a sprawling wilderness with many coastal bushland trails. (Image: Mark Watson)

    Wilsons Promontory National Park (or ‘The Prom’, as you’ll end up calling it) is an easy three-hour drive from Melbourne, but you might ditch the car when you arrive, with much of the park’s 50,000 hectares accessible only by foot. From the inky water of Tidal River (dyed dark purple by abundant tea trees), I like the easy walks along the coast, among lichen-laden granite boulders, to golden beaches and bays.

    a couple on Mount Oberon
    Panoramic views from the summit of Mount Oberon. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    The trail to the panoramic views at the summit of Mount Oberon is a bit harder, up steep timber and granite steps, but it’s a popular 6.8-kilometre return. The more remote hikes are found through the open banksia and stringybark woodland of the park’s north, or along the multi-day Southern Circuit, which ranges from about 35 to 52 kilometres, with sunrises and sunsets, kangaroos and cockatoos, and maybe even whales.

    a golden sand beach at Wilsons Promontory National Park
    Walk ‘The Prom’s’ golden sand beaches. (Image: Tourism Australia/Time Out Australia)

    You might also see whales on the George Bass Coastal Walk, even closer to Melbourne on the western edge of Gippsland. This dramatic seven-kilometre trail along the clifftops takes in sweeping views of the wild ocean, occasionally dipping down from grassy green hills to coastal gullies and a secluded beach. It also now links into the Bass Coast Rail Trail for an extra 14 kilometres.

    the George Bass Coastal Walk
    George Bass Coastal Walk trails for seven kilometres along clifftops. (Image: Visit Victoria/Time Out Australia)

    Over at the eastern edge of Gippsland, in Croajingolong National Park, you can wander along the lakeshores beneath koalas and around goannas (I keep my distance since one chased me here!). For those who are even more adventurous, the park is also the starting point for the 100-kilometre Wilderness Coast Walk, usually done over seven days.

    the Croajingolong National Park, Gippsland
    Wander along the lakeshores in Croajingolong National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    The best bush hikes in Gippsland

    the Baw Baw National Park
    The alpine heath of Baw Baw National Park. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    Deep in the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine at Walhalla, mining guide Richard tells me how this small town in the mountains east of Melbourne boomed when prospectors found gold here in 1862. These days, you’ll find most of the town’s treasure – its heritage – above ground, with the Walhalla Tramline Walk a wonderful way to explore it.

    Just seven kilometres long, the walk takes you through decades of Gold Rush history, following the original rail trail from lush bushland to the mining sites, and through the charming village of just 20 residents with its wooden cottages and old shopfronts adorned with turn-of-the-century advertising posters. Blazing a trail where trailblazers once opened up the region, this is also the starting point for the 650-kilometre Australian Alps Walking Track.

    Nearby, Baw Baw National Park has walks through gnarled snow gums and alpine heaths that show off the colourful wildflowers in summer and the pristine carpet of white in winter. Several trails are perfect for snowshoes, including a 45-minute route from St Gwinear up to vast views across the Latrobe Valley.

    Further up into the mountains, the Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls Loop Walk is an easy 2.2-kilometre path that serenades you with the sound of flowing water as you pass mossy rocks and tree ferns en route to two sets of waterfalls cascading over boulders in the remote wilderness.

    The best cultural hikes in Gippsland

    the Mitchell River National Park, Gippsland
    Hike the Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

    Across a pool in a natural sandstone amphitheatre, deep within a cave behind a waterfall, it’s said the Nargun has its lair. A fierce creature, half human and half stone, that abducts children and can’t be harmed by boomerangs or spears, the story of the Nargun has been told around the campfires of the local Gunaikurnai people for generations.

    As a culturally significant place for women, hikers are asked not to go into the Den of Nargun, but a 3.4-kilometre loop walk leads you through a rainforest gully to the entrance where you can feel the powerful atmosphere here in Mitchell River National Park, along Victoria’s largest remaining wild and free-flowing waterway.

    the bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park
    Bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

    The Den of Nargun is part of the Bataluk Cultural Trail, a series of important traditional Gunaikurnai sites through central Gippsland. Another location is Victoria’s largest cave system, Buchan Caves Reserve, with trails to important archaeological sites of human artefacts up to 18,000 years old. The FJ Wilson Interpreted Walk includes the naturally sculpted white limestone steps of the 400-metre-long Federal Cave, while the Granite Pools Walk goes among tall timber and moss-covered gullies.

    the ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park
    The ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park. (Image: Josie Withers)

    Also important to the Gunaikurnai people is Tarra-Bulga National Park, known for its ancient myrtle beeches and enormous mountain ash trees. Just 40 minutes return, the Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk offers a taste of this verdant landscape, while the Grand Strzelecki Track takes you deep into the lost world of forest giants on an epic 100-kilometre trail rich with tradition.

    A traveller’s checklist

    Staying there

    the WildernessRetreats in The Prom
    Wilderness Retreats in The Prom. (Image: Christian Pearson)

    Wilderness Retreats in Wilsons Promontory offers glamping-style tents with luxurious queen beds. Star Hotel is a reconstruction of a Gold Rush-era hotel from 1863 in the heart of heritage Walhalla. Caves House is a historic three-bedroom house with views over the Buchan River.

    Eating there

    the Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
    Enjoy a post-hike lunch at Carrajung Estate. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    Kilcunda General Store serves great coffee and meals of local produce at the George Bass Coastal Walk. Alpine Trout Farm is located near Toorongo Falls in Noojee. Fish for your own lunch and barbecue it with the provided cookware.

    Carrajung Estate is a short drive from Tarra-Bulga National Park. The winery’s restaurant offers a seasonal menu of regional ingredients and you can stay at The Lodge.

    a seafood feast at Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
    The table is set for a seafood feast at the estate.

    Video credit: Tourism Australia