java sea western australia - arts club theatre company sea & western australia 16 nights sailing...
TRANSCRIPT
Java Sea &
Western Australia
16 Nights
Sailing from
December 06, 2018 to
December 22, 2018
on the
Azamara Quest*
Sailing from Singapore to Perth, Australia
The Azamara Quest: 181 metres with only 680 passengers and 408 crew.
* Azamara’s inclusive amenities for all guests feature:
select standard spirits, international beers, and wines
botted water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
gratuities
self-service laundry
shuttle service to and from port communities, where
available
concierge services for personal guidance and reservations
AzAmazing Evenings® event (on most voyages of seven
nights or longer)
Thursday, 6 December: Singapore – The Food Capital of the World
Combine a dash of tranquil gardens and inspiring natural surroundings with a pinch of avant garde
architecture along with a liberal sprinkling of international cultures, customs, and flavors and the result is
Singapore. Singapore is the world’s busiest port and easiest place to do business. Often nicknamed the
Garden City, Singapore is an experience in itself.
Singapore is a foodie’s paradise, a mouth-watering feast of flavors. Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines
are the dominant influences here, but this city filled with expats from across the globe offers amazing
cuisine from all corners of the world. Be sure to try chili crab, the unofficial dish of the city: this sticky
meal is a messy delight that will make one’s taste buds tingle. The serious gourmet might consider the
one-stop dose of international celebrity cuisine by heading to the Marina Bay Sands, the world’s second
most expensive building that is home to no less than seven celebrity chef restaurants, not to mention a
casino, hotel, mall, two theaters, two floating Crystal Pavilions, and an ice-skating rink.
If eating can be considered the national pastime in Singapore, shopping makes a decent case as the second
most popular activity. Orchard Road offers miles shopping malls featuring everything from the trendiest
fashions to the latest electronic gadgets.
Friday, 7 December: At Sea
Your first full day at sea will certainly be a time to relax and a perfect time to explore the culinary
joys of the ship. From breakfast to dinner, including snacks if you so choose, your palate has a lot to
look forward to aboard the Quest with the following venues:
Windows Café:
Enjoy the peaceful indoors of the café or take in the
fresh breeze at an outdoor table in Windows Café, a
casual buffet offering made-to-order breakfasts and
a large variety of lunch and dinner options. Choices
change daily and include fresh sushi, stir-fries and
pastas, salads, an assortment of entrees and sides, a
carving station and sumptuous desserts.
Discoveries Restaurant:
With open seating and delicious nightly selections,
the main restaurant is not to be missed. You will
find all your classic dinner favorites, very likely
with a different twist, like gulf shrimp with cognac
and garlic or a filet mignon with black truffle
sauce. As well, open seating provides you the
opportunity to dine at your leisure.
Aqualina Restaurant:
If you are in the mood for fantastic Italian inspired
cuisine, make a reservation at Aqualina, one of our
onboard specialty restaurants. Aqualina will satisfy
your taste for sumptuous fare in a relaxed, yet
positively chic atmosphere.
Prime C Restaurant:
If steak and seafood are on your mind, then
consider making a reservation at Prime C. Full of
atmosphere and loaded with flavor, this specialty
restaurant surely aims to please all who enter.
The broad wooden floors and rich paneling are
more than inviting and the steaks will melt in your
mouth.
Saturday, 8 December: Jakarta, Indonesia
On fiery-peaked Java, the megacity of Jakarta is booming. The traffic and vastness seem daunting at
first, but this is a melting pot of cultures and seeking them out is part of the city’s allure. The old town of
Batavia will transport you to Indonesia’s Dutch colonial past. If you are daring, rent a bike and buzz in
and out of the tiny side streets where performers and artists mingle.
Istiqlal Mosque is fascinating: it can host 120,000 worshipers and is made from Javanese marble that
glistens in the tropical sunshine. If shopping if foremost on your mind, the fascinating flea market on
Jalan Surabaya Street has pretty much everything – including fakes, so know your stuff and haggle, since
it is expected.
When you are hungry, head to the trendy Menteng district for modern Indonesian fare like marinated
pork ribs and banana pancakes, or wander the hip hub of Jalan Benda where you’ll find French art deco
pieces, as well as a great cup of Java.
Finally, from Jakarta you can sail to one of the 16,000 uninhabited islands in the Indonesian archipelago,
each like a lost world: a wildly exotic trip to worlds of rainforest-green amid jewel-colored seas,
volcanoes and unbelievable beaches.
Sunday, 9 December: Semarang (Borobudur), Indonesia – The Gateway to Awe Inspiring Sites
The commercial port of Semarang might be better known as a hub for one of Indonesia’s most
important exports – the beans for your next cup of coffee, but Semarang is also an important gateway
to two of the area’s most spectacular sights: Prambanan and Borobudur.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Prambanan is a collection of massive Hindu temples and a national
symbol of Indonesia. Wander the grounds and gaze at the huge collection of sharp, jaggedly sculpted
towers that dot the landscape.
Then for something completely different, but no less awe inspiring, head to another UNESCO World
Heritage Site, nearby Borobudur, with the largest Buddhist monument in the world. Marvel at the
incredible attention to detail while embracing the feeling of being dwarfed by the massive structures
of this incredible site. The single most popular tourist site in all of Indonesia, Borobudur contains no
less than 2,672 relief panels, and 504 Buddha statues to explore. The twin soaring and active
volcanoes on the horizon are the perfect backdrop to watch the sunset over this fertile landscape; and
because Azamara stays later in port than any other cruise ship, you just might get to experience this
incredible sight.
Monday, 10 December: Surabaya, Indonesia
The city of Surabaya offers some fascinating places to explore. The Arab quarter is like a Middle
Eastern medina – a warren of narrow lanes with stalls selling prayer beads next to perfume next to
dates. Keep following the lanes to the Masjid Ampel, a historic mosque built in 1421.
Surabaya also has one of Indonesia’s largest Chinatowns, Buddhist temples and a roster of
impressive, though disintegrating, Dutch buildings. One, the House of Sampoerna, is now a unique
clove museum, with women still hand-rolling cigarettes; the cafe is a great place for authentic
Indonesian cuisine in a historic setting.
Just outside of the city, wander through the ruins of the former capital city of the ancient Majapahit
Empire at the Trowulan Archaeological Site. The museum shows some of what has been found,
artifacts from coins to pottery.
Along the way, do not forget to sample some of the delicious Indonesian cuisine.
Tuesday – Wednesday, 11 & 12 December: Benoa, Bali, Indonesia
Voyage to a Land of Enchantment
Bali is more than just a place: it is a state of mind. From yoga retreats to more than 20,000 temples,
there is plenty here to help you achieve a state of inner Om. Not to worry, though, you don’t have to
embark on a spiritual journey worthy of the pages of Eat, Pray, Love, because Bali has plenty to
cater to your physical body as well.
Take a relaxing dip in one of the many hot springs that dot the remote and beautiful countryside.
Bali is also a renowned spa destination, so you might indulge in a little well deserved self-pampering.
Choose from wraps and masks made from native herbs and spices, specialty massages, or even
plunge your feet in a bucket of tiny fish which will give you a pedicure you will not soon forget.
But no visit to Bali would be complete without a trip to the beach. From happening hot spots, where
travelers from all four corners of the world come to see and be seen, to remote and secluded stretches
of rich black sand, perfect for relaxation and quiet contemplation, there is something for everyone.
Thursday, 13 December: Komodo, Indonesia – The Land of Dragons
Upon arrival at Komodo Island, you might think you’ve arrived on the island of Jurassic Park.
Fortunately, Komodo’s namesake dragons only look like dinosaurs. One of the New Seven Wonders
of Nature and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Komodo National Park is home to more than just the
largest lizard in the world.
In addition to the obvious reptilian highlights, Komodo’s pink sand beaches are one of only seven
places in the world with these distinct shores; the unique hue of the pink beaches is due to the coral
that surrounds the island, which is also home to a truly astonishing amount of sea life. Snorkelers
will want to don their fins and masks to explore the entirely different and equally beautiful world
beneath the waves.
Friday, 14 December: At Sea
Hundreds of years ago, traveling the oceans was much harder than it is today; but then again, back
then travellers had a lot of time to rest onboard ship. Today, a day at sea is truly a time to rest after
days of touring ashore. So, do not forget to pamper yourself and enjoy your relaxation time with the
variety of options available on the Quest.
The Sanctum Spa:
The Spa will transport you to a whole new world with
treatments inspired by rituals from exotic cultures. You will
also find a hair salon, the Sanctum Terrace with a
Thalassotherapy pool, and an assortment of the finest spa
products. The Sanctum Spa also includes a nail bar and
pedicure area, as well as dedicated stations for barber services,
teeth whitening, and hair services, along with the Medi-spa and
acupuncture clinic.
The Living Room:
The idea of the Living Room is just that: it is the perfect
space for guests throughout the day and evening to engage in
lively conversations, take in interesting speakers, peruse art,
play a game of cards, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, wines and
tapas, delightful music, or simply to relax with a good book.
Card Room & In Touch:
On the starboard side of the Living Room, guests will find
the Card Room for those who love a round of Bridge or other
games. Four computers and interactive table tops are
available for guest use during the voyage.
The Drawing Room
This library is one of the quiet jewels of Azamara, a peaceful
and beautifully appointed space for reading or relaxing after
dinner. Browse the collection and feel free to borrow the
library books.
Saturday – Sunday, 15 & 16 December: Broome, Australia
The Pearl of Western Australia
When South Sea pearls were discovered near Broome in the 1800s, divers from Japan, Malaysia and
the Philippines came to seek their fortunes. Years later, the town is still a melting pot of cultures as
intriguing as the landscape around it.
Consider a four-wheel drive along the Gibb River Road to Kununurra, home to the Ord Valley
Muster and the beehive-striped Bungle Bungles of Purnululu National Park; then you will certainly
want to send your photos home to your friends and family Or you might tour along the Dampier
Peninsula, a rugged, spectacular coastal stretch dotted with small Aboriginal communities. For a real
adventure, stay in an Aboriginal wilderness camp, a remote natural paradise where you can swim,
snorkel, and fish.
Watching the sun sink into the sea on Cable Beach is a nightly ritual for almost all visitors to
Broome. The most popular way to watch is from the back of a swaying camel, but you can also see
the sunset over the top of a cocktail from a beachside bar.
Monday, 17 December: At Sea
Part of relaxing onboard is enjoying the sun and freshness of the pool and hot tubs. Remember,
though, to keep yourself hydrated, and there are plenty of bars on the Quest to help you with that, as
well as venues to tide you over until dinner.
The Pool:
Spending daytime sunning and relaxing by the pool is its own reward,
and at least once on the cruise, weather permitting, Azamara hosts its
famous White Night party. Colorful décor and linen draped tables, a
fabulous buffet feast, and boutique wines on the house make this an
event like no other, not to mention the fun and fast-paced show
presented by the entertainment team.
Pool Bar:
The Pool Bar will keep you hydrated during your busy time in the sun
with all the refreshments you need during the day, as well as cocktails
of your choice during the evening.
The Patio and Swirl & Top:
While a casual pool grill during the day, in the evening this venue will
be completely transformed into an al fresco dining experience: nice
tablecloths and candles will set the mood while a reimagined menu
will be served by the pool grill wait staff. In addition, a self-serve
frozen yogurt station can conclude your meal with a variety of flavors
and your choice of toppings.
Spirits:
For all the sports fans on board, Spirits bar adjacent to the Casino
features a flat-screen TV and full bar, making for a very pleasant
place to keep up with favorite teams.
Deck 11:
Enjoy the solitude of this deck with the view from the top of the ship,
especially at sunset (or sunrise), perhaps with a quiet stroll in the
evening just before retiring for the night.
Cabaret Lounge:
Enjoy live performances of professional full-stage musical revues,
classical soloists, bands and other entertainment in our Cabaret
Lounge, featuring a full bar. You could see as many as four distinctly
different shows while onboard.
Tuesday, 18 December: Exmouth, Australia – The West Coast’s Best Kept Secret
If you so choose, here you can swim with Whale sharks, the largest and most gentle fish in the sea. As
well, here green and loggerhead turtles populate the Ningaloo Coast, recognized as one of the most
important nesting grounds in the world. All this is on the doorstep of the remote western coast of
Australia and the town of Exmouth, of which most people have heard little and fewer have visited and
which makes this the perfect place to explore.
Step off the shore, swim a few feet through the clearest turquoise water, and you will find yourself
snorkeling over the world's largest fringing coral reef, the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef. If
dolphins, manta rays and humpback whales find this paradise, you likely will as well.
For divers, Exmouth Navy Pier is rated one of the top shore dives in the world. Surrounded by big
schools of trevally, barracuda, emperor, Queensland gropers, goby fish and the elusive dugong, this Pier
is like diving in a huge aquarium.
Anglers will find themselves in Australia's premier fishing destination, especially for game and sport
fishing. There’s also the dramatic Cape Range National Park for a hike in the Mandu Mandu Gorge,
where on a 3K hike you will have a good chance of seeing a variety of flora and fauna. Exmouth
offers so much.
Wednesday, 19 December: At Sea
On your last sea day aboard the Quest, your thoughts might turn to finding that special memento of
your cruise; or perhaps you feel your luck is up and that winnings are to be made; or perhaps you just
noticed that the fine cuisine onboard has settled in a bit too much. In any case, if you haven’t yet
discovered them, the Quest still has offerings for you . . .
The Quest Shop and Indulgences:
It's one-stop shopping in the Quest Shop. Apparel, sundries, handbags,
candies, souvenirs and lots more await you. If you find that you forgot to
pack something, chances are you'll find it in the Quest Shop. If you are
looking for the finer accoutrements of life such as designer jewelry, the
perfect place to window shop or discovering that special memory, you
might visit Indulgences.
Photo Shop:
The ship’s photographers have worked to capture both fun and
professional photos throughout the voyage. Whether it is your portrait
or photos of the destinations you visit, you might find a special
memory here. As well, if you find you are short of photographic
supplies, the Photo Shop may help you fulfill your needs.
Casino:
Test your skill or prove to your fellow guests that beginner's luck is
real. The Casino will keep you entertained with blackjack, roulette,
slot machines, and three-card poker games. Group and individual
gaming lessons are offered at no charge, which is a great way to learn
gaming strategy! The Casino accepts payment by Key Card, cash,
credit card, travelers’ checks and foreign currency.
Fitness Center:
Keep up your fitness routine or embark on a new one in the ship’s
Fitness Center. Consider taking part in yoga at sunset or toning
Pilates. Our onboard wellness consultant is there to assist you every
step.
Thursday, 20 December: Geraldton, Australia – White Sand Beaches & Emerald Seas
The Batavia coast of Western Australia has miles of white sand beaches, emerald seas, and some
lovely small towns, one of which is Geraldton, “Gero” to the locals. It is blessed with sun and
consistent winds, and has become Australia’s wind and kite surfing capital, as well as for surfing
generally with its miles of famous reef breaks.
Consider taking an eco-cruise of the Abrolhos Islands, a beautiful archipelago that is home to 90
species of seabirds. Watch the sea lions play and feed the huge Sampson fish by hand; you can even
jump in with them and snorkel around the wreck of the Batavia – the treacherous reef-surrounded
atolls have claimed many like her.
As for things to do on land, most of those have to do with the ocean as well. The HMAS Sydney II
Memorial and the ship’s story at the Western Australian Museum are haunting, while the red and
white striped Point Moore Lighthouse and the nearby Keeper’s cottage houses a charming historical
collection of life in a lighthouse. End the day with a tour of the byzantine St. Francis Xavier
Cathedral, one of architect and priest Monsignor Hawes’ greatest masterpieces.
Friday, 21 December: Perth, Australia – City of the Future
Perth, once an Australian backwater, is now at the vanguard of cool, with cutting-edge art, miles of
stunning beaches, and a culture that’s both relaxed and impatient for the future.
Situated beside the Swan River, Perth is a magical place to explore. Start in Kings Park on Mount
Eliza for the best views and an enchanting treetop walk. To indulge in some retail therapy, visit the
high-end fashion boutiques of King Street. Art lovers will want to get acquainted with the center of
Perth's art scene, the Art Gallery of Western Australia which features the best collection of
Aboriginal art in the country.
Freemantle with its prison and shipwreck galleries should not be missed, while just north of Perth
lies Swan Valley, Western Australia's oldest wine region where you have the chance to handpick a
bottle or two from one of the state-of-the-art boutique wineries.
In the evening, you might consider emulating Prince Charles and have a beach barbie on Cottesloe
Beach with a Pink Ruby swizzle. Then watch the sun sizzle as it sinks into the waters of the Indian
Ocean.
Saturday, 22 December: Perth, Australia
This morning your cruise comes to an end when you disembark the Azamara Quest.
Consumer Protection BC License
#70485
This cruise offers a single supplement from 25%,
making it an ideal opportunity for the single adventurous traveller.
Pricing for this cruise is available
by calling Geoff at 604.685.6756 or