Silversea Luxury Cruises To MELBOURNE

Discover Melbourne's architectural treasures and cultural heritage on-foot during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Beacon Cove, Tram-Ride & Melbourne City on Foot

Depart the pier on-foot with your guide for the short walk to Beacon Cove, then board a tram for the short ride into the city. Upon arrival, begin your guided walking tour through the city's fascinating labyrinth of atmospheric arcades and alleyways. Discover lanes filled with trendy cafes and eclectic boutiques, along with graffiti street art and a host of landmark buildings that arose from the city's Gold Rush boom during the 1850s.

Historical Landmarks

Highlights include the Block Arcade with its dazzlingly high Victorian-style interior décor, as well as grand, 19th-century commercial buildings. Renowned architectural gems include the stunning Gothic Bank, ornate Old Melbourne Stock Exchange, restored General Post Office and the city's oldest arcade, the Royal Arcade. Your walk continues past the delightful Town Hall, City Square precinct, and beautiful lime-and-sandstone building of St Paul's Anglican Cathedral.

Tram-Ride and Beacon Cove

Next, sit back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere of your surrounds during a refreshment stop at a local café. Afterward, resume your walking tour through tiny laneways. At the conclusion of your walking tour of Melbourne City, you can take the tram back to the pier or opt to remain in the city for independent exploration and return to the ship on your own.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.24 miles-1.9 miles (about two kilometres-three kilometres), at times over cobblestone surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to board/de-board the tram and at the sights visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Guests must be at least eight years old to participate on this tour. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Explore one of Australia's premiere wildlife reserves and view a wide array of iconic Australian animals during this self-guided, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Yarra Valley & Healesville Sanctuary

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to the Healesville Sanctuary, a must-see for animal lovers. En route, pass through the Yarra Valley foothills, a beautiful wine region of Victoria. Upon arrival at the Healesville Sanctuary, begin your self-guided walking tour.

Healesville Sanctuary

Explore the park and wander along the tranquil tracks at your leisure. Along the way, get up-close and personal with a variety of Australia's most beloved wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, Tasmanian devils, wombats, and dingoes all within their natural surrounds. Enjoy several demonstrations and feedings, including the majestic 'Spirits of the Sky' and popular 'World of the Platypus' exhibits. You can even visit the Wildlife Health Centre to chat with the vets or nurses as they treat sick, injured or orphaned wildlife in-need of care. During your visit, refreshments and/or meals are available for purchase at kiosks or cafés located throughout the sanctuary. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board the coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles-1.9 miles (about one kilometre-three kilometres), at times over compacted gravel and earth pathways, with three-four steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. Walking at the Healesville Sanctuary is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The drive between the pier and Healesville Sanctuary is approximately 1.5 hours in each direction.

Explore the famous street art and laneways of Melbourne during this scenic and captivating, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Melbourne, Federation Square, ACMI, Street Art, Laneways, Central Business District

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI), located at Federation Square. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of Melbourne's famous street art and laneways, and venture off the beaten track to discover the hidden treasures of the Central Business District (CBD). Here, learn all about the artists and stories behind the artworks from artists directly involved in the scene.

Blender Studios

The last stop on your street art tour is at the famous Blender Studios, an urban art and fine art studio that has paralleled the urban art movement since its beginnings. Opened in 2001, the Blender Studios has produced some of the most influential artists in Australia. It has been instrumental in setting up the foundations of the Melbourne street art scene, and has been part of every genre in the urban art movement in Melbourne. It has also been the base for major street art and fine art festivals and urban re-rejuvenation projects, and is the home of the Melbourne street art tours. Blender is a social space where artists can connect, collaborate and create. It's a self-sustaining project that puts artists first, and funds itself through social enterprises, creating one of the most affordable studio spaces in town.

Exclusive Tour, Meet and Observe the Artists at Work, Refreshments

Upon arrival, proceed for an exclusive studio tour, meet the artists and observe them at work in the huge art studio. A selection of market-fresh produce, beer, wine and soft drinks are provided as you wander through this incredible space. The tour route is modified and updated regularly, considering the ever-changing nature of the street art found here. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.86 miles (about three kilometres), at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof jacket from the ship. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Experience the splendid beauty and landmarks of Melbourne during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion and Yarra River cruise.

Melbourne, Yarra River Cruise, Princess Theatre, Melbourne City, Arts Centre

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the picturesque Yarra River. Upon arrival, embark a boat for a panoramic, approximately one-hour sightseeing cruise. Along the way, pass by some of the most notable landmarks in Melbourne City, including the Princess Theatre, Melbourne Park and Arts Centre.

Fitzroy Gardens, Cook's Cottage, City Tour, Grand Prix Site, St. Patrick and Paul Cathedrals

Following your cruise, re-board your coach and head to the lush, 19th-century Fitzroy Gardens. Upon arrival, enjoy a self-guided tour of Cook's Cottage. Afterward, re-board your coach for a narrated sightseeing tour of Melbourne. En route, pass by the Grand Prix site, and famous cathedrals of St Patrick and Paul.

Shrine of Remembrance

Next, a photo stop is made at the moving Shrine of Remembrance, which honours those who lost their lives in World War II. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.3-0.6 miles (about 500 metres-one kilometre), at times over uneven surfaces, with three-four steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 10-20 steps at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to seasickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a light jacket from the ship. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. The tour sequence may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions.

This is an included Silversea experience, advanced reservations are not required.

Experience an unforgettable singing performance by Mark Vincent, one of the finest recording artists in Australia, during this exclusive, event.

Melbourne, Concert Venue, Cocktails and Canapes, Welcome Speech

Depart the pier for the scenic drive to the concert venue. Upon arrival at entrance, you are welcomed with drinks and canapes.

Exclusive Performance by Mark Vincent

Afterward, you are escorted to your seat for an unforgettable, approximately 45 minute concert by internationally-renowned classical artist, Mark Vincent, and his band of musicians. This exclusive event offers a unique opportunity to experience the outstanding voice and talent of one of the finest young performers in the music industry today.

Mark Vincent Bio

Mark Vincent is the only classical artist in Australian history to have released six albums by the time he was 20 years old, and has sold in excess of 500,000 albums worldwide. In 2009, this then-unknown, 15-year-old singer and songwriter burst on to the scene with a mind-blowing rendition of Nessun Dorma on Australiaʼs Got Talent. Since then, this prolific performer has released several successful albums that have rewarded him with a legion of passionate fans worldwide, and appearances on stage alongside luminaries such as Whitney Houston, Katherine Jenkins, The Priests and Kate Ceberano.

Following this exclusive concert outing, re-board your coach and drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with a few steps to get on/off the coach and 10 steps at the entrance. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility, but is not wheelchair-accessible. Smart-casual clothing with flat shoes are recommended. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages.

Experience a rare and unique opportunity to observe koalas, kangaroos and other wildlife in the wild during this unforgettable, half-day excursion to You Yangs National Park.

You Yangs National Park, Australian Bush, Koala-Spotting

Depart the pier in the late-afternoon for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to You Yangs National Park. Upon arrival, your informative and dramatic introduction to the unique wildlife of Australia features a rare opportunity to see kangaroos and koalas in the wild. Led by an expert nature guide, begin your walking and coach tour in search of koalas. Along the way, learn about and observe these extraordinary and endangered, fluffy-eared creatures in their natural environment, which can often be observed sitting up in the fork of a tree in the beautiful Australian bush.

Wildlife-Spotting, Sundowners, Wine & Dinner in the Wild

Next, travel a short distance to see free-ranging eastern grey kangaroos in a natural bush setting. In addition, see and learn about many other Australian animals and birds on the vast Western Plains near Melbourne. This unforgettable koala and kangaroo excursion ends with early-evening Sundowners out in the wild, along with wine and a casual, light dinner consisting of sandwiches, crackers, cheese and fruit. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometre), at times over uneven and natural ground and inclines, with a few steps to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with sturdy, flat and closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent and a weatherproof jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, animal sightings are not guaranteed. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Discover the coastal beauty and sights of Melbourne in an eco-friendly new way during this invigorating, sightseeing excursion via electric bike.

Melbourne, Guided Electric Bicycle Tour

Meet your guide at the pier, receive your safety and riding instructions, then don your helmet and practice using your easy-to-operate, state-of-the-art and environmentally-friendly electric-assisted bike, which features a comfortable gel seat. Afterward, depart the pier for your scenic, approximately two-hour guided bicycle tour.

Melbourne Bay, Local Piers and Landmarks, St. Kilda Pier Kiosk, Refreshment Stop

Begin with a scenic ride along Melbourne's bay-side bicycle path towards Brighton. Along the way, experience the exhilaration of effortless cruising, and take in the local piers, history, culture and landmarks. Next, a visit is made to the St. Kilda Pier, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following a refreshment stop at the St. Kilda Pier Kiosk restaurant, commence the return ride back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of activity for approximately 3.1 miles-4.3 miles (about five kilometres-seven kilometres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the electric-assisted bike. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition, know how to ride a bicycle and/or have previous electric-biking experience. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests suffering from vertigo, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes or sneakers, and bring sun protection and a sweater or light jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least 16 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by parent or guardian over the age of 18. Bicycle helmets are provided, and must be worn the entire time whilst riding. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Play a relaxing round of golf on a championship course in the famed 'Sandbelt' region of Melbourne during this spectacular, half-day golfing excursion.

Woodlands Golf Club or Yarra Yarra Golf Club

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 40-minute drive via luxury coach to either the Woodlands Golf Club or Yarra Yarra Golf Club, depending upon the availability of tee times at the time of guest booking. Both clubs are situated in the renowned Melbourne Sandbelt, and are renowned by golf purists for their championship layout, immaculate course presentation and a spectacular golfing experience. Depending upon available of tee times at the time of guest booking, guests will play at the Woodlands Golf Club or Yarra Yarra Golf Club.

Clothing Change, Club Selection, Pre-Game Warm-Up, Motorised Golf Cart, Personal Golf Pack

Upon arrival, change into your golf attire, select your premium clubs and receive driving range balls for your pre-game warm-up. Your shared, motorised golf cart with in-cart refreshments awaits your arrival, along with a personal golf pack containing a sleeve of three golf balls, custom golf towel, golf tees, divot tool, and scoring pencil to be taken home.

Eighteen-Hole Round of Golf, Narrow Fairways, Hazards, Small Greens, Challenging Layout

Next, begin your 18-hole round of golf. Grace the narrow fairways, cunningly-placed hazards and small greens that are the hallmarks of their challenging metropolitan layouts. During your visit, gifts, additional refreshments, and food are available at the Pro Shop or Clubhouse at your own expense. At the conclusion of this unforgettable golf outing, re-board your luxury coach and commence the approximately 40-minute drive back to the pier.

Relax and take in the scenic sights of Melbourne, visiting the Eureka Skydeck and the Shrine of Remembrance.

This half-day tour is a perfect way to discover Melbourne from the comfort of a coach. Take in notable sights, landmarks, buildings, and parks and learn about the city and its history and culture.

Depart the pier for the scenic drive into Melbourne, which is renowned for its grace, Old World charm, and the magnificent parks and gardens that surround the city. On the way the coach travels along the Esplanade, passing through St. Kilda, a trendy and well-known inner city suburb with an eclectic history.

Stop at the Eureka Tower and venture high up to the 88th floor, you will get a bird's eye view of the CBD and of Melbourne's sprawling suburbs. After a short drive, visit the monumental Shrine of Remembrance located in the peaceful gardens, just minutes away from the bustling city centre.

Continue the journey through the city, where you can admire the historical architecture of the first churches of the area to the fascinating terrace homes in the Carlton District. Alongside these historical landmarks there are just as many modern structures, cultural landmarks and sporting venues to set your sights on until your return to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves minimal walking as is it primarily a panoramic coach tour. It is suitable for guests with limited mobility and those who utilise a wheelchair and able to embark/disembark the coach via steps. Order of sights seen may vary to facilitate operational requirements.

Travel to Phillip Island and visit the stunning Nobbies Centre, home to a colony of seals, and the Penguin Visitor Centre. The fascinating penguin parade delights all who watch as groups of penguins swim ashore nightly and waddle up the beach, onto the sand dunes.

Phillip Island, Town of Cowes & Free Time

Depart the pier in the late afternoon for the scenic, two-hour drive from Port Melbourne to Phillip Island. A stop will be made in the charming town of Cowes for some free time to enjoy dinner on your own. Next, stop to admire the view from the boardwalk at the resident Nobbies, before continuing on to the Phillip Island Nature Reserve. The Reserve, covering an area of approximately 45 square miles (116.5 square kilometres), is home to seals, koalas, mutton birds and the largest colony of little penguins in existence. Spend some free time in the Nobbies Centre before a short transfer to the penguin parade observation area.

Penguin Parade

Penguins are unique to the Southern Hemisphere, and at Phillip Island, the 13-inch (33-centimetre) penguins you will encounter are the smallest of the 17 different species of penguins. Each evening, these fascinating creatures swim ashore and march up the beach to their burrows in the sand. Witness them in their natural habitat from the boardwalks and viewing platforms, and marvel at one of nature's most intriguing wonders. Park rangers are on hand to assist and explain the interesting life of the world's smallest penguin.

Following your visit to Phillip Island, return to Melbourne late in the evening, after a two-hour drive.

Learn about the traditional uses for food, tools and medicine on an Aboriginal Walking tour at the Botanic Gardens. This half-day excursion allows you to see many of Melbourne's highlights as well as learn about the Aboriginal history of the region.

Panoramic Drive

Depart the pier for a panoramic drive. Sit back, relax and enjoy an informative narrative as you travel past many magnificent buildings including The Treasury, Parliament House, the Windsor Hotel, the Princess Theatre and the marvellous Gothic buildings that are found along Collins Street.

Royal Botanic Gardens & Aboriginal Heritage Walk

Upon arrival at the Royal Botanic Gardens, participate in an Aboriginal Heritage Walk. The garden is an important cultural site for the local Koolin people. Journey into their ancestral lands and gain an understanding of their rich history and thriving culture, and discover their connection to plants in this 90 minute walking tour.

Traditional Smoking Ceremony

Escorted by your indigenous guide, experience a traditional smoking ceremony, and discover traditional uses of plants for food, tools and medicine. In addition, develop an understanding of, and respect for, the customs and heritage of the local Boon wurrung and Woi wurrung people.

Lemon Myrtle Tea & Free Time

Conclude your walk with a refreshing cup of lemon myrtle tea while you share stories and reflect on the significance of Aboriginal culture in Australia. Followed by some free time in the gardens, continue the panoramic drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven surfaces and/or periods of standing, with a few steps to negotiate at the sights visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.

Explore Melbourne at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Melbourne at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 2 guests per car. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Melbourne at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 4 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Explore Melbourne at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city and surrounding areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Please note: This tour is non-refundable if cancelled within 48 hours prior to arrival in the port. Actual vehicle type varies depending on availability. Participation is limited to 4 guests per van. The price, exclusive of meals, entrance fees and gratuities, is per vehicle. Therefore, when making your reservation, please indicate the number of vehicles, not the number of guests. Only one person in the party needs to reserve this programme. Please see the Shore Concierge Office on board the ship to arrange your individual itinerary.

Embrace the stunning natural beauty of the Dandenong Ranges during this panoramic, half-day excursion aboard a vintage steam train.

Dandenong Ranges & Puffing Billy Train

Depart the pier for the scenic, narrated drive past Melbourne's eastern suburbs and into the Dandenong Ranges, where the beautiful scenery of the tall mountain forests come into view. Upon arrival at the Belgrave Train Station, board the Puffing Billy, a vintage steam train built in the early-1900s that was originally used to aid commuters in the then-remote Dandenong Ranges. Today, this antique train has been lovingly restored and operates with the aid of many volunteers as a well-known attraction. The train still runs on its original mountain track, which offers picturesque views of the countryside and rolling hills through the lush, green fern gullies surrounding the track.

Train-Ride

After boarding the Puffing Billy, begin your approximately 30-minute ride to Menzies Creek. En route, travel through the magnificent ranges, then pass through the temperate rainforest and over a beautiful, approximately 300-foot-long (about 91-metre-long) timber Trestle Bridge.

Grant's Reserve

Upon arrival in Menzies Creek, de-board the Puffing Billy and board a coach for the short drive to Grant's Reserve, nestled within Sherbrooke Forest. A stop is made here for morning tea amidst your beautiful surrounds. The forest is home to towering mountain ash trees, a wide variety of ferns and abundant wildlife. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach for the approximately 75-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 219 yards-547 yards (about 200 metres-500 kilometres), at times over grass, gravel, and natural surfaces and inclines, with three steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and three steep steps to enter/exit the narrow train carriage. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, bird and wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. The Puffing Billy train is air-cooled. During total fire-ban days, the Puffing Billy train is powered by a diesel locomotive. During total fire-ban days when the fire rating is Code Red or Extreme, the Puffing Billy train will not operate at all.

Go 'behind-the-scenes' of the famous Melbourne Cup during this exclusive, half-day World Cruise Collection excursion to the Flemington Racecourse.

Melbourne, Flemington Race Course, Exclusive, Guided Tour

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to the Flemington Racecourse. Home of the Melbourne Cup since 1861, the Flemington Racecourse is one of Australia's most significant cultural and sporting venues. Upon arrival, take an exclusive, guided tour to experience the heritage, heroes and events that have made the Melbourne Cup 'the race that stops the nation™' and Flemington Racecourse one of the most famous racecourses in the world.

Flemington Heritage Centre, Multimedia Presentations, Racecourse, Grounds, Rose Gardens

During your tour, visit the Flemington Heritage Centre for a viewing of multimedia presentations and artefacts from the club's Art & Heritage Collection, which brings to life the history, drama, fashion and excitement of racing at Flemington. Your tour continues with a visit to the Racecourse. Explore the magnificent grounds and gardens, which are home to over 15,000 of Flemington's famous roses.

Jockey Rooms, Mounting Yard, 1890 Melbourne Cup Winner's Horse Stall, Morning Tea

Next, go behind-the-scenes for a look at the jockey rooms, mounting yard and historical points of interest, such as the 1890 Melbourne Cup winner Carbine's original horse stall and newly-opened Club Stand. Following your tour, proceed for morning tea at one of the Flemington Racecourse's many venues. At the conclusion of your visit, your World Cruise Collection tour concludes with an approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This World Cruise Collection tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometre), at times over uneven, grass and gravel surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with sturdy, flat and closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a weatherproof jacket from the ship. The tour sequence may vary.

Discover the splendid beauty, flavours and wine estates of the fertile Yarra Valley during this scenic, full-day winery excursion with lunch.

Melbourne, Scenic Drive, Yarra Valley

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.75-hour drive to the Yarra Valley, famous for its exquisite beauty and award-winning wines. Along the way, learn about the history of this gorgeous wine region. From architectural statements to rustic tin sheds hidden among the vines, the Yarra Valley has a wonderful range of cellar doors, all reflecting the diversity of styles and approaches in this beautiful, cool-climate region.

De Bortoli Winery & Wine Tastings

Your first stop in the Yarra Valley is at the De Bortoli Winery. The Bortoli Wines was established 90 years ago in war-torn Europe. The family and brought their wine knowledge, experience and expertise to Australia. Their vineyard in Yarra Valley has planted and grown predominantly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon. Recent new vineyards of Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Gamay Noir have been established and are looking quite spectacular. The Bortoli Wines is a family business and now managed by their fourth generation, and as always the family business strives for better from the very beginning. Upon arrival, proceed for a private wine tasting.

Dominique Portet Estate, Three-Course Lunch with Dominique Portet Wines

Your final foray into the renowned Yarra Valley is at the wine estate of Dominique Portet. This ninth-generation winemaker chose the cool climate of the Coldstream Hills in the Yarra Valley as home to the winery he founded in 2000. Portet's winemaking family has its roots in France since the early-1700s. Upon arrival at the Dominique Portet Estate, proceed for a three-course lunch accompanied by Dominique Portet wines. After lunch, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.75-hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 219 yards (about 200 metres), at times over uneven and gravel surfaces, with three-four steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection and a light jacket from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The driving distance between the pier and wineries visited is approximately 1.75 hours in each direction. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment. In case Bortoli Winery is not available, guests will visit Rochford Winery instead.

Melbourne, the 'Garden City' and capital of the south-eastern Australian state of Victoria, offers a unique opportunity to embrace the city's Aboriginal past whilst enjoying its beautiful gardens, contemporary landmarks and picturesque countryside that makes up the Yarra Valley. This is the name given to the region surrounding the Yarra River which is host to a thriving wine-growing industry. The area's relatively cool climate makes it particularly suited to the production of high-quality chardonnay, pinot noir and sparkling wine. Discover the exquisite beauty and flavours of Melbourne and the Yarra Valley wine region during this panoramic, one-night overland excursion. Your journey begins with a guided tour, traditional smoking ceremony and Lemon Myrtle tea at the Melbourne Botanic Gardens. Next, visit the Eureka SkyDeck 88 for breath-taking views over the city, Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges. Leaving Melbourne, transfer to the Yarra Valley and proceed for lunch with wine at the Rochford Winery, a guided wine-blending session and unique opportunity to create your own signature taste. Afterward, head for a wine tasting with cheeses at Yering Station, and check-in at the adjacent Chateau Yering. After dinner, an overnight stay and early-morning wake-up call, depart for a hot-air balloon adventure over the Yarra Valley at sunrise. Enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the vineyards, mountain ranges, meandering Yarra River below and Melbourne CBD skyline in the distance. Transfer back to the hotel for breakfast and some free time to freshen-up before check-out. Drive to the Great Dividing Range, and visit Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary, which features over 200 species of native wildlife in a natural bush setting. Round out your visit to the Yarra Valley with lunch accompanied by wine at Levantine Hill. Next, drive into the Dandenong Ranges and take a scenic ride aboard the 'Puffing Billy', an authentic, vintage steam-train. The train still runs on its original mountain track, which offers picturesque views of the countryside and rolling hills through the lush, green fern gullies surrounding the track. Following your one-hour train-ride, re-board your vehicle and return to Melbourne and embark the ship.

01MIDMEL-B Escape to the Yarra Valley Wine Region

Duration: 2 Days/1 Night

Departs from: Melbourne

Re-join ship: Melbourne

Reserve by: At least 90 days prior to sailing

IMPORTANT NOTE

This Silver Shore Mid-Land Adventure requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than the 10th December 2019. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90 - 0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.

Payment in full is due at time of final payment. Bookings made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea.

All Land Adventure fares are subject to change, and not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Land Adventures are non-transferable, and non-refundable, within 120 days of sailing. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. All Land Adventures are owned by independent contractors, and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Land Adventures may be modified by the operators at their sole discretion.

VISA INFORMATION:

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for Australia. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.

LOCAL CURRENCY:

The local currency is the Australian Dollar; local ATMs are available in some locations visited, and credit cards are accepted in larger shops and hotels.

Discover the exquisite beauty and flavours of Melbourne and the Yarra Valley wine region during this panoramic, one-night overland excursion.

DAY ONE - Saturday, March 28, 2020 - Melbourne/Yarra Valley

Take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk at the Melbourne Botanic Gardens

After disembarking the ship in Melbourne, meet your guide and transfer to the Melbourne Botanic Gardens, an important cultural site for the local Koolin people. Upon arrival, participate in an Aboriginal Heritage Walk. Along the way, explore their ancestral lands and rich, thriving culture.

Experience a traditional smoking ceremony and lemon Myrtle tea

Escorted by your indigenous guide, experience a traditional smoking ceremony, and discover traditional uses of plants for food, tools and medicine. In addition, develop an understanding of, and respect for, the customs and heritage of the local Boon wurrung and Woi wurrung people. Your tour concludes with a cup of lemon Myrtle tea.

Exquisite views over the city, Port Phillip Bay and Dandenong Ranges from the Eureka SkyDeck 88

Next, continue on to the Eureka SkyDeck 88. This impressive, 92-storey-tall tower is one of the tallest apartment buildings in the world. Upon arrival, the building's high-speed elevators whisk you from the ground to the Level 88 Sky Deck in a mere 40 seconds. From this towering vantage point, you are afforded unparalleled, 360-degree views of the city, Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges through the Sky Deck's floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

Transfer to the Yarra Valley for lunch with wine at the Rochford Winery

Leaving the Eureka SkyDeck 88, transfer to the Yarra Valley for an exclusive food and wine sensation. Upon arrival, proceed for a two-course lunch with wine at the Rochford Winery.

Enjoy a guided wine-blending session, and a unique opportunity to create your own signature taste

After lunch, you are treated to a guided wine-blending session, and a unique opportunity to blend your own signature taste; tasting charts and aroma kits are provided to help you with this task.

Head for a wine tasting with cheeses at Yering Station, and check-in at the adjacent Chateau Yering

Armed with greater knowledge of the winemaking process, transfer to Chateau Yering and Yering Station. Upon arrival, proceed for a wine tasting session accompanied by a selection of cheeses; the ideal way to end the afternoon. Leaving Yering Station, walk to the adjacent Chateau Yering, your stunning accommodations for the evening. After check-in, some free time is made available to freshen-up before dinner.

Dinner is at the hotel's Elenore's restaurant.

Overnight accommodations in a Melba Room at Yering Station - Yarra Valley

DAY TWO - Sunday, March 29, 2020 - Yarra Valley/Melbourne

Early-morning wake-up call, and a sunrise, hot-air balloon adventure over the Yarra Valley

After an early-morning wake-up call, meet your guide and depart for a sunrise, hot-air balloon adventure over the Yarra Valley. Your approximately one-hour flight offers magnificent panoramic views of the vineyards, mountain ranges and meandering Yarra River below, and distant views of the Melbourne CBD skyline.

Transfer back to the hotel for breakfast and some free time to freshen-up before check-out

Following your sky-high experience, transfer back to Chateau Yering. After breakfast, some free time is made available to freshen-up before check-out.

Drive to the Great Dividing Range, and a guided tour of the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary

After check-out, meet your guide and depart for the Great Dividing Range and Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary. Regarded as one of Australia's leading parks, Healesville features over 200 species of native wildlife in a natural bush setting. Here, you can get acquainted with the kangaroos, koalas, lyrebirds, platypus, emus, and other uniquely Australian animals that inhabit the bush-like surroundings.

Lunch with wine at Levantine Hill

Following your Aussie animal encounters, transfer to Levantine Hill for a relaxing lunch accompanied by exceptional food and wine; the ideal way to end your time in the Yarra Valley.

Drive into the Dandenong Ranges, and take a scenic ride aboard the Puffing Billy train

Leaving Levantine Hill, depart for the scenic, narrated drive past the Dandenong Ranges, where the beautiful scenery of the tall mountain forests come into view. Upon arrival at the Belgrave Train Station, board the Puffing Billy, a vintage steam train built in the early-1900s that was originally used to aid commuters in the then-remote Dandenong Ranges. Today, this antique train has been lovingly restored and operates with the aid of many volunteers as a well-known attraction. The train still runs on its original mountain track, which offers picturesque views of the countryside and rolling hills through the lush, green fern gullies surrounding the track.

Transfer to the pier and ship

Following your one-hour train-ride, re-board your vehicle and return to Melbourne and transfer to the pier and embark the ship.

Please note: This Mid-Voyage Land Adventure requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately 1.24 miles-2.5 miles (about two kilometres-four kilometres) per day, at times over uneven, rocky, sandy, grassy, and natural surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and hot-air balloon, and many steps at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests, guests with back and/or neck problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with a fear of heights, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to bring lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking and beach shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, a sweater or light jacket, raingear, swimwear, a camera, towel and approximately one-quart (about one-litre) water bottle from the ship; pants and long sleeves are recommended for the evening. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, animal sightings are not guaranteed. Guests must carry their passports and ship's ID at all times. The tour sequence and itinerary may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Programme Includes:

• One-night stay in a Melba Room at Yering Station - Yarra Valley
• One breakfasts, two lunches and one dinners with drinks included
• Guided tour, a traditional smoking ceremony and Lemon Myrtle tea at the Melbourne Botanic Gardens
• Visit the Eureka SkyDeck 88 for splendid views over city, Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges
• Lunch with wine, a guided wine-blending session, and a unique opportunity to create your own signature taste at the Rochford Winery - Yarra Valley
• Wine tasting with cheeses at Yering Station
• Sunrise hot-air balloon adventure - Yarra Valley
• Self-Guided tour of the Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary
• Lunch with wine at Levantine Hill
• Scenic ride aboard the Puffing Billy train
• All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary

Not Included:

Any meals and drinks not specified above, charges incurred by the airlines for excess or overweight luggage, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance, and other personal items.

Our Simply Hotel selection is the perfect choice for those who want a centrally located setting from which to discover - or rediscover - the city. Rooms in these 4.5 and 5-star properties are generally Standard Double or King rooms that provide comfortable accommodations and superior service for those who wish to extend their trip with a cultural or shopping experience in some of the world's most iconic cities.

For your convenience, we can easily organize transfers between the airport and hotel or between the hotel and the pier so that you only have to decide how much or how little you wish to do.

Hotel brands that we consistently feature include Intercontinental, JW Marriott, Fairmont or the Conrad Group.