Travel

The excursion at this port was a quick drive through Perth which included some interesting business signs, and then out to Yanchep National Park where we were able to see many of the native animals we expected to see at all Australia stops. Other than the Esperance March Fly and some birds, animal sightings had been sparse so far on the trip. The park visit satisfied in this respect.

Esperance was mostly a drive around the countryside. We went to beaches, an art gallery, a working replica of Stonehenge, and a place that make leather out of fish skins. A picnic lunch was provided for us and a visiting Goana (what they call an Iguana). A March fly made an early visit on our bus and the driver sprayed the beast to kill it as it is known to carry disease and makes a big welt if punctured by the large month. It fell on the window by me so I photographed it. Nasty beast.

Sydney was an early entry and late exit day. The ship was berthed in the area where various ferries moved during the day so we had to be in place by the time they started activities and then leave after activity ceased. While there the sister ship to the Pacific Princess sailed into port and under the bridge.

New Zealand stops were both heavy with rain and mist. I did not even get off the ship in Bay of Islands and the Auckland stop was disappointing due to rain and clouds which made the tower visit less than useful for seeing the area from above. Below are galleries showing photos from both stops…

Exmouth was a tender port we visited on a Sunday. It’s basically a Navy communications site and little was open so it was pretty much ride into town, walk around a bit, then return to the wharf and tender back to the ship. Below are some photos taken…