Your eye-opening holiday begins in Sydney where you’ll board the majestic Indian Pacific. Prepare for a true journey of contrasts as you travel the full breadth of southern Australia from the heights of the majestic Blue Mountains to the barren expanse of the Nullarbor Plain. As you pull away from Sydney, you’ll roll through ever-changing scenery, explore the comforts of life on board, and settle into your comfortable cabin. After dinner, join fellow guests for a late-night drink or head back to your cabin for your first night on board.

Today, you’ll arrive in the ‘Silver City’ of Broken Hill, one of Australia’s legendary Outback bases. You’ll enjoy fascinating excursions to discover its mining history and unique artistic culture. You’ll then glide into the southern tip of the vibrant Flinders Ranges before arriving in the city of Adelaide. The choice is yours on whether you’ll enjoy a city tour or a trip to the lush green Adelaide Hills, sampling the sumptuous wine of Barossa Valley or the culinary delights of Hahndorf.

As you wake, you’ll find yourself on the edges of the sweeping Nullarbor Plain. Be captivated by the stillness of the desert landscape as your breakfast is served, travelling along the world’s longest stretch of straight railway track. Given the season, another mouth-watering dinner could be yours to relish; a tranquil dining journey under the shimmering stars of remote Rawlinna, followed by relaxed conversation in the lounge before a restful night’s sleep.

Breakfast is served as you glide through the mild skies and cool green vales of the Avon Valley on your way to Perth, arriving after an on-board lunch – the perfect conclusion to your captivating rail tour. Get ready to savour six nights in Perth, a city with a cosmopolitan air and vivacious evening scene. You could wander the Fremantle Markets, housed within interesting Victorian architecture, or take a ferry out to the fascinating Penguin Island.

The city of Perth offers a fusion of gorgeous verdant landscapes with a bustling city centre that boasts chic new bars and restaurants. Nature lovers could delight in a visit to Kings Park or a stroll through the beautiful blooms of the Botanic Gardens. For art lovers, you could also wander along the Public Art Walk in search of the remarkable Spanda sculpture.

No visit to Perth would be complete without a trip to Rottnest Island, where you’ll enjoy a fully escorted tour. Explore the beauty and tranquillity of Rottnest as your tour takes you to Rottnest’s most spectacular locations, including the bright Wadjemup Lighthouse and the rugged West End coastline. Your tour provides you with an insight into Rottnest’s cultural and heritage, and diverse wildlife including the famous quokkas. You’ll also be able to delight in a stroll along the boardwalk, a majestic look-out point at West End.

You’ll immerse yourself in the beauty of a Swan Valley River trip that delivers you to an award-winning winery. Indulge in complimentary tea, Yahava coffee, and freshly baked muffins as you journey upstream to Sandalford Estate. You could discover the estate's secrets with a leisurely walk before a wine-making tour and a modern grazing table lunch at the winery restaurant, accompanied by a tasting of six premium wines. Savour a glass of your favourite wine here and explore the cellar door for a fortified wine tasting. On the return sailing to Perth, you’ll enjoy a delectable selection of desserts, wines, and live entertainment.

You’ll indulge in two further days of leisure in Perth. You could uncover the city's modern charm as you explore its contemporary sights and attractions. Take a stroll along the picturesque Elizabeth Quay and marvel at its striking architecture and waterfront views. Alternatively, delve into the cultural hub of Northbridge with its trendy cafes, art galleries, and live music venues.

Feeling more like a private club than a cruise ship, Azamara Pursuit’s^® intimate atmosphere welcomes you with open arms, exquisite personal service, and divine cuisine. The Azamara standard boasts boutique hotel-quality service with unparalleled amenities, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and sail away to the less-travelled destinations on your journey.

A small town south of Perth, Margaret River is famous for its wineries, beaches, and breweries. While here, you could take a wine tour and sample some of the award-winning shiraz at one of the 200 or so vineyards. Alternatively, try your hand at surfing at the Margaret River Mouth and Southside or visit the Boranup Karri Forest, home to beautiful and towering eucalyptus trees.

Albany is the perfect destination for history lovers. This port city is where the first European settlers landed in Western Australia, and many of Albany’s stone colonial buildings still stand today. You’ll find that this city features intriguing museums, including the National Anzac Centre and Whaling Station Museum. You could also delight in Albany’s beaches, taking in its breathtaking rugged coastline with soft white sands, vibrant waters, and gentle waves.

Esperance is a haven for sea, sun, and adventure lovers. There’s something for every mood and fancy, from fishing and diving to sandboarding and walking trails including the Cape Le Grand Coastal Trail. Covering nine miles of incredible beaches and turquoise coves, your efforts will be rewarded with unbelievable views.

Whether you’re craving light nibbles at an atmospheric tapas bar or five-course meals in an elegant restaurant, Azamara Pursuit^® promises to provide you with world-class dining for all your time on board. A couple of highlights include Aqualina Restaurant, an Italian eatery that embodies the life and soul of the country, and the Chef’s Table, where you could enjoy a guest lecturer during your exquisite five-course meal.

When its popular sporting events – including cricket, tennis, and motorsports – aren’t available, you’ll get the chance to explore Adelaide’s heart with a visit to Victoria Square. Its vibrant 19^th-century Central Market bustles with locals searching for fresh produce. Or, if you want to uncover more of Australia’s natural beauty, you could travel to Mount Lofty to look down upon the sprawling city, hugged by lush green trees and the soft blue blanket of the ocean beyond.

In today’s age, it’s nearly impossible to view the wonders of nature without humanity’s presence intruding on it. Kangaroo Island, however, defies all expectations as over a third of the island is dedicated to protected reserves. While named after the national animal, Kangaroo Island is home to a wide array of wildlife, including lively sea lions, elusive koalas and, to the west of the island, pottering penguin colonies.

Wind down with your days at sea at the Sanctum Spa. Feel like a rejuvenating body wrap, soothing facial, or even a muscle-melting massage? Head to this tranquil oasis. During your time here, you could even relax in the hot saltwater pool on the Sanctum Terrace, where you could witness stunning views out to sea.

Located on New South Wales’ Sapphire Coast, Eden is blessed with a gorgeous blue ocean, rugged coastline, and pristine coves. You could spot humpback whales at Twofold Bay, learn about the region’s whaling past at Ben Boyd National Park, or take a coastal nature walk along the designated trail, sampling fresh seafood at the wharf.

The striking and iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge will become familiar to you during your stay in Sydney. A truly cosmopolitan city, you can expect a breathtaking energy as you roam Sydney’s bustling streets. Admire enchanting works at the Museum of Contemporary Art, stargaze at the Sydney's Observatory, or amble through beautiful greenery at The Royal Botanic Garden. Sydney is one of the first major cities to ring in the new year, so you’ll prepare lively celebrations on New Years Eve, including a colourful and colossal firework show that rivals the world’s best.

Enjoy your final day at sea by making the most of what Azamara Pursuit^® has to offer. By day, you could find a quiet haven in the library, well-stocked with books, and the digital Inspiration Centre. As the night beckons, listen to live music with a cocktail in hand at the Cabaret Lounge, or check out ABBA-themed nights and karaoke at the Living Room.

Your epic adventure concludes today in Melbourne. You’ll bid farewell to the superb Azamara Pursuit^® and transfer to the airport for your flight home.