Navy's International Fleet Review Will Be Biggest Sydney Party Since 2000 Olympic Games

SYDNEY will welcome more than 40 warships into the harbour and Prince Harry as the city and the Royal Australian Navy celebrate the International Fleet Review.

On Friday, October 4 the entire city will come to a halt as a fleet of 40 warships from 20 different nations enter the harbour.

The current ship to carry the name Sydney, HMAS Sydney (IV), will lead the fleet through the heads.
In addition to the arrival of the ships, Imagination - the team behind the 2011 and 2012 New Year's eve events - will produce the Royal Australian Navy's International Fleet Review Spectacular on October 5.

The event, which is expected to be the biggest public display in Australia since the 2000 Olympics, will feature an extensive array of pyrotechnics, lights and projections that will light up the harbour and seven selected ships.

Heath Campanaro, director of Imagination and project manager, said the 30-minute event would utilise the decks of seven warships and vantage points around the harbour to simulate WWII in Sydney.

A spectacular fireworks show and mock war will light up the harbour.

"There will be 28 lighting positions in the city as well as seven warships on the harbour and we will have projections, a soundtrack and plenty of pyrotechnics," he said.

"The pyrotechnics are going to be the biggest thing of all and we have again asked Foti Fireworks to be involved because we have a great relationship with those guys."

Mr Campanaro said the Royal Australian Navy's International Fleet Review Spectacular would be unlike anything Sydney had ever experienced before.

"There are going to be so many layers happening at the same time when we put this on," he said.

Warships will be used to mount an amazing harbour light show.

"We are creating scenes that replicate WWII where we will feel like Sydney is under attack. We will have choppers flying over and sailors will be doing activities on deck. There will be lots of lighting, lots of action and the whole thing will be amazing."

* For more information on the International Fleet Review, visit: navy.gov.au/ifr

Royals Visit Australia: Prince Harry to Visit Australia

Britain's Prince Harry makes a speech at the Friends of the Forces Awards in London on July 13, 2010. The royal will visit Australia next month for events in Sydney marking the Royal Australian Navy's centenary of service, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has said. (AFP/File) 

Britain's Prince Harry will visit Australia next month for events in Sydney marking the Royal Australian Navy's centenary of service, Prime Minister Tony Abbott said Monday.

"Whilst Prince Harry visited Australia privately in his gap year in 2003, this will be his first official visit to Australia," Abbott said in a statement.

"During his visit next month, Prince Harry will attend the International Fleet Review in Sydney to mark the centenary of the first entry of the Royal Australian Navy's Fleet into Sydney."

Abbott said Australians had great warmth towards members of the royal family and Prince Harry, the fourth in line to the British throne, would be an "honoured visitor".

"As a member of the armed forces, Prince Harry has continued a long tradition of duty and service," he said.
"His work and advocacy for numerous charitable organisations has also been an important focus of his public life."

The Royal Australian Navy will commemorate the arrival of its first fleet 100 years ago into Sydney Harbour with a spectacular International Fleet Review from October 3. Some 54 international warships and 17 tall ships will take part.

The British royals are generally popular in Australia. The country rejected the opportunity to cut ties to the monarchy in a 1999 referendum, with just over 45 percent of voters saying "yes" to a republic.

Cruise Special at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour is offering this Cruise Special

Enter the Code "Cruise" in the booking panel to receive 10% OFF all Accommodation Rates

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Prince Harry's Hats-off Three Cheers Salute in Sydney Harbour Naval Extravaganza

PRINCE Harry - the playboy royal and fourth in line to the British throne - is expected to receive a hats-off three cheers royal salute from thousands of sailors on Sydney Harbour next month.

It is understood Harry will be accompanied by Governor-general Quentin Bryce when he takes the royal salute by sailing past some 40 warships on board a royal barge or another navy boat.

According to well-placed sources the prince is odds-on to be guest of honour at the Royal Australian Navy's centenary celebrations, however no official announcement will be made until a week before the gala event on Sydney Harbour between October 3 and 10.

"It is highly likely that Harry will be in Sydney although no details have been firmed up,'' a source said.

The International Fleet Review will mark the 100th anniversary of the arrival in Sydney of the brand new seven-ship Royal Australian Navy fleet led by the flagship HMAS Australia in October 1913.

The centenary will be officially celebrated on October 5 with a royal review by the prince of 21 RAN vessels and 19 overseas warships as well as 16 tall ships that will sail into the harbour on October 3.

Each warship will formally salute the HMAS Sydney memorial on Bradleys Head as they enter the harbour on October 4.

Prince Harry stands in front of an Apache Helicopter a few days after the royal, a trainee Apache helicopter pilot, passed the half-decade milestone to become a captain. Source: Getty Images

The review will also feature fly-pasts by 37 types of military and civilian aircraft ranging from helicopters to Hornet jet fighters.

Palace sources remain tight-lipped about any trip to Australia.

A spokesman for Kensington Palace, Prince Harry's official mouthpiece, said it simply was not currently in a position to comment.

"Announcements of overseas visits by members of the Royal Family are made in due course after an official invitation is received,'' the spokesman said.

Prince Harry visits The Royal Marines Tamar on August 2, 2013. Picture: Getty  Source: Getty Images

On the question of whether his current girlfriend Cressida Bonas was also planning to visit Sydney at the same time, the spokesman said that was a matter for her, but there were no plans for her to accompany Prince Harry on any trip whether domestic or overseas.

Royal commentators scoffed at rumours that a royal would ever take a girlfriend on an overseas trip, as completely contrary to all protocols for any official royal or government official.

The centrepiece of the International Fleet review will be a fireworks and light show spectacular focused on the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House on the evening of Saturday October 5.

For the first time Australia's fireworks capital will see pyrotechnics launched from the decks of navy warships.

A fleet of eight tall ships took sail on Port Phillip Bay participating in events leading up to International Fleet Day in Sydney next month. Source: News Limited

This will signal the start of the biggest party seen in Sydney since the Bicentenary with 8000 cashed up sailors and tens of thousands of revellers set to spend up to $100 million during the week-long celebration that will cost taxpayers about $6 million to stage.

A projection show will be seen on both sides of the Opera House sails, the eastern side of the Harbour Bridge pylons and the roof of the Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour.

Britain's Prince Harry. Picture: Source: AP

Prince Harry or Captain Wales, 30, is a British Army helicopter pilot and Afghanistan war veteran and has visited Australia once before - in 2003, when he spent most of his time working on a Queensland sheep station.

The NSW Government has been lobbying hard for his possible visit to be turned into a full-blown Royal tour, but that is unlikely given his heavy work commitments.

View Source - See more at: http://royalsvisitaustralia.blogspot.com.au/2013/09/prince-harrys-hats-off-three-cheers.html#sthash.DjWTNe9y.dpuf

Carnival Spirit this Morning - Circular Quay, Sydney

Carnival Spirit - Docked This Morning at the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay, Sydney

Carnival Spirit is the first Spirit-class cruise ship for Carnival Cruise Lines. She is also the first new "Fun Ship" to sail to Alaska and Hawaii. Eighty percent of the cabins are on the outside of the ship, and of these outside cabins, 80% have balconies.

In January, 2012, Carnival Spirit went to dry dock and was fitted with some of the latest that cruisers want to have, including Carnival Waterworks (Waterpark at Sea), and the steepest waterslide at sea, a new creation, Green Thunder. Her current home port Sydney, Australia is where she then sails to New Caledonia, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Zealand.

Sydney Cruise Expo

 Put in the Promo Code CRUISE in the booking

Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre

Darling Drive
Darling Harbour NSW 2000

Sunday 22 September
10am – 4pm

PARKING

The Centre’s car park entrance is located off Darling Drive and costs range between $10 for 1 hour to $34 for 4+ hours.

WIN A 14-DAY HOLLAND AMERICA CRUISE TO NEW ZEALAND!

Register your details at the Cruise Expo for your chance to WIN!
Click here to view the competition terms and conditions. This promotion is authorised under NSW Permit No. LTPS/13/06231.

WIN A $1000 TRAVEL GIFT CARD!

Book and make a deposit at the expo to go into the draw to win a $1000 Travel Gift Card.
This promotion is authorised under NSW Permit No. LTPS/13/05127.


Click here to view the competition terms and conditions.

EXHIBITORS

APT - Travelmarvel	Avalon Waterways	Bentours	Carnival Cruise Lines
Celebrity Cruises & Azamara Club Cruises	Costa Cruises	Cover-More Travel Insurance	Cruise Office
Discover the World Cruising	eWaterways	Holland America Line - Seabourn	Infinity Cruise
Modern Bags	MSC Cruises	P&O Cruises	Ponant Yacht Cruises
Princess Cruises	Rocky Mountaineer & Infinity Rail	Royal Caribbean Cruise Line	Scenic Tours
Star Cruises / Norwegian Cruise Line	Tauck River Cruising	Territory Discoveries	Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Viking River Cruises

*Exhibitors subject to change

FREE 20-MINUTE TRAVEL PRESENTATIONS

The program will feature free and informative presentations showcasing the most popular features of a selection of ocean and river cruises. If you are looking to “Ask the Expert” and gain insider advice and tips from leading travel experts and suppliers, then these presentation are not to be missed.
Below is the program schedule for the Expo.

Time	Presentation	Presented by:
10:15am	All-inclusive Luxury River Cruising	Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
10:45am	Modern Luxury and Destination Immersion	Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises
11:15am	Ultimate luxury cruising	Scenic Tours
11:45am	Premium, mid-sized cruising	Holland America Line
12:15pm	Legendary river cruises	Avalon Waterways
12:45pm	Extraordinary journeys along iconic waterways	A.P.T - Travelmarvel
1:15pm	Never settle for ordinary	Tauck River Cruising
1:45pm	Designed for WOW	Royal Caribbean Cruise Line
2:15pm	Holidays measured in moments not minutes	MSC Cruises
2:45pm	Discover the World’s most spectacular destination	Bentours
3:15pm	The World's Leading River Cruise Line	Viking River Cruises

*Presentation times & topics subject to change

Overseas Passenger Terminal

Nearest train station: Circular Quay
Operating hours: The cruise terminal is accessible from 5.00am for those passengers disembarking the ship and 1 hour after departure of the ship, eg if vessel departs at 4.00pm, gates will close at 5.00pm.
Please note that during this time the terminal remains a restricted area and access will only be
granted to those embarking on the departing cruise ship.
Car parking: No car parking available on-site, however a set down and pick up is available for private vehicles.Drivers need to remain in their car at all times. The precinct is controlled by security who will tow
any private vehicle left unmanned. Mini-bus & taxi parking Mini buses and taxis are allowed to enter the site on ship days to drop off and pick up passengers and have assigned designated bays for this process.
Coach parking Coach transfers are organised through the cruise line and will be permitted a 15 minute pick up bay. The driver's arrival time will be coordinated by the cruise line.
Duty Free Duty: Free is not available in the terminal precinct but can be bought onboard the ship. There is a Customs Office on ship departure days where passengers can claim back on Duty Free goods over the prescribed value.
Café:Cruise Bar, which is adjacent to the terminal building, provides a coffee service. The Rocks shopping district is also in close proximity to the terminal.
Toilets:Female, male and disabled toilets are available on-site.
ATMs and foreign exchange: A commonwealth bank ATM is on-site and a foreign exchange can be found at Circular Quay which is approximately a 5 minute walk from the terminal.
Passports:All guests departing on an international cruise need to bring their passport and booking itinerary.
Wheelchair assistance: Wheelchair assistance will be provided at the terminal through the shipping operator as long as a request has been made at the time of booking.
Baggage drop-off:There is a baggage drop-off point from 9.30am, but passengers are not able to check-in until their allocated check-in time. Please see your itinerary for details.
Lost luggage: Any queries regarding lost or stolen luggage should be directed to your booking agent.
Payphones and public Wi-Fi: Not available.
Accomodation: Before and after the cruise Metro Apartments Darling Harbour Specializes in Cruise Passengers. With FREE WiFi and All facilities of Home. Your Home away from home. Staff are happy to assist with the transfers to and from the Ship. To receive a 10% DISCOUNT  Put in the Promo Code CRUISE into the booking page Book Now

Discount For Cruise Passengers at Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

As another Australian summer draws near and thousands of Australians prepare for the annual cruise season, Metro Apartments Darling Harbour is offering cruise passengers a special 10 per cent discount off the best available rate for the length of their stay, to ensure their time in Sydney is as enjoyable as their time at sea. 

With more than 80 cruises departing Sydney between September 1st and December 30, 2013, thousands of passengers will pass through Sydney before being carried off to intriguing destinations around the globe in ships such as Pacific Pearl, Radiance of the Seas, Carnival Spirit and Sun Princess. Sydney Harbour will be transformed into floating apartment hotels as these majestic cruise liners of the world prepare to pamper their multitude of guests.

Many interstate and regional guests will arrive in Sydney over the next few months to embark on a cruise, with cruises departing from the International Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay and from the White Bay Terminal at Rozelle.  Located close to both departure points, Metro Apartments Darling Harbour is perfect for a pre- and post-cruise stay, just a short taxi trip away from both terminals.

Metro Apartments Darling Harbour offers a selection of 32 recently renovated loft-style one-bedroom apartments, each with a queen sized bed and sofa bed and offering all the comforts of a ‘home away from home’ with the convenience of a perfect city location.

Located in two separate buildings in Sussex and King Streets, guests can choose from the larger, contemporary-styled Sussex St apartments with views over Darling Harbour or a New York styled King Street apartment with access to rooftop pool.

Apartments have full kitchen and laundry facilities, spacious living rooms with cathedral windows and have been designed as a ‘home away from home’ where families can relax at the end of a long day’s sightseeing, or just have a break before venturing out again to explore more of Sydney.

Discount parking of $30 for 24 hours is provided nearby at 170 Sussex St Secure Car Parking.

To access the special offer, cruise passengers can book online at:

METRO APARTMENTS ON DARLING HARBOUR

METRO APARTMENTS ON KING

On these websites you will get the best available packages and rate and use the word CRUISE when prompted for a discount code.  

Alternately they can ring the toll free Central Reservations line on 1800 004 321

View all Metro Hotels Press Releases at Metro Hotels News

The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Tour

The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines, famed for their precision marching and musical versatility, will perform a concert featuring military classics to jazz and big band favourites. This concert will display the outstanding versatility of some of the world’s finest military musicians.

There really is something for everyone as the Royal Marines display their incredible musicianship and pageantry.  A wide range of musical styles includes music from the big screen and superb solo items. This concert would not be complete without the famous traditional marches and overtures that have proved such a hit with audiences over the years with the Royal Marines’ exceptional display of precision and skill.

The 90 minute performance is a testimony to the professionalism of the world’s finest military bands, proudly demonstrating talents acquired over many years of practice and experience both in the classroom and on the parade square.

When: Monday 9 October 2013
Where: Capitol Theatre Sydney - 13 Campbell Street, Haymarket NSW 2000 Australia
Tickets: http://www.ticketmaster.com.au/Band-of-Her-Majestys-Royal-Marines-tickets/artist/1191547

Staying in SYDNEY for The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines?

Need a hotel room close to Capitol Theatre Sydney?

Look no further than Metro Hotel Sydney Central - RIGHT next to the Capitol Theatre Sydney whilst being close to other iconic Sydney attractions. 

Website: Metro Hotel Sydney Central

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is offering this Capitol Theatre Hotel Package

For $165.00 per room per night you get:

• One night's accommodation in a Superior Queen Room
• Hot Buffet Breakfast for 2 adults
• Extended check-out to 12 noon the following day

• Book Online and Terms here: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/242
• Or call: 02 9281 6999

Want to try another hotel? Metro Hotel on Pitt, only a 10 minute walk to Capitol Theatre.

Website: Metro Hotel on Pitt

Metro Hotel on Pitt is offering this Winter Sydney CBD Getaway Hotel Package

For $134.00 per room per night you get:

• Free WiFi
• A bottle of wine on arrival
• Late check out of 12 noon
• Staying in a Standard\Single\double\twin room*

• Book Online and Terms here: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/306
• Or call: 02 9283 8088

Other Metro Hotels and Apartments:

• Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour (the closest train station is Wynyard)

• Aspire Hotel Sydney Ultimo (13 minutes walk to Central station)

NNS Thunder Heads To Australia For International Fleet Review

Nigeria’s NNS Thunder has left the city of Calabar to represent Africa for the Royal Australian Navy’s International Fleet Review (IFR) slated for 3rd to the 11th of October this year in Sydney, Australia.

Joining about  Fifty other countries of the world including Russia and America and South Africa being the second African country to represent the continent, the international event is to be reviewed by the queen of England to mark the 200 years battle of Trafalgar.

The Flag officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command Rear Admiral Joe Aikhomu disclosed this at the Nigerian Port Authority NPA jetty in Calabar, Cross River State Capital been venue for the take-off point of the NNS thunder ship conveying forty officers and 140 ratings of Nigerian Navy participating.

According to the Rear Admiral the voyage to Sidney is a friendly and diplomatic expedition urging the crew to see the mission as a training program meant to enhance the Navy’s proficiency.

NNS THUNDER will be making outbound port calls at Luanda, Cape Town, Port Louis, Freemantle and Sydney and on the in-bound leg visit Melbourne, Albany, Port Des Galet, Durban, Walvis Bay and Pointe Noire.

The officers on board are expected to be back to the country within the next four to five months.

About International Fleet Review Sydney - 2013

In late 2011, the Chief of Navy (CN) - Vice Admiral Ray Griggs, AO, CSC, RAN extended an invitation to over 50 nations to send a warship and/or tall ship to participate in an International Fleet Review (IFR) to be held in Sydney from 3 - 11 October 2013. The Review is being held to commemorate the centenary of the first entry of the Royal Australian Navy's Fleet into Sydney.

On 4 October 1913 the flagship, HMAS Australia, led the new Australian Fleet Unit comprising HMA Ships Melbourne, Sydney, Encounter, Warrego, Parramatta and Yarra into Sydney Harbour for the first time to be greeted by thousands of cheering citizens lining the foreshore. This was a moment of great national pride and importance, one recognised as a key indicator of Australia's progress towards national maturity.

The IFR is a high profile international event and Navy's signature commemorative event for 2013. Planned in partnership with the NSW State Government and the City of Sydney, it is anticipated that approximately 40 warships and 20 tall ships will participate in this historic event. The RAN Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Congress and Exposition, are also scheduled to take place at Darling Harbour from 7 October 2013 to coincide with the IFR.


The current plan will see RAN and visiting warships rendezvousing in Jervis Bay, NSW on 1 October 2013 to conduct final preparations and briefings. The formal aspects of the IFR will commence with all tall ships entering Sydney Harbour on Thursday 3 October 2013 and all warships entering on Friday 4 October 2013 - exactly 100 years after the first RAN Fleet entry.

To mark this historic occasion, the Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia, her Excellency, the Hon Ms Quentin Bryce, AC, CVO will welcome the Fleet from Bradley’s Head on 4 October, and officially review the fleet onboard HMAS Leeuwin on Saturday, 5 October, as part of the Ceremonial Fleet Review. The Review will include a moving line of seven RAN ships to further symbolise the 1913 entry. 

The day's events are also likely to feature formation fly-pasts by fixed and rotary wing aircraft, naval displays and demonstrations, naval gun salutes and naval band performances, and will culminate in a spectacular evening pyrotechnics and light show on the harbour.

Other activities being planned to occur during the week long celebrations, include a combined naval march through the Sydney CBD, ships open to the public, inter-navy sporting competitions, naval memorial and religious services, and a range of community and cultural events.

The tall ships will depart on Thursday 10 October 2013 followed by the fleet departing on Friday 11 October 2013 to participate in Exercise TRITON CENTENARY in the East Australian Exercise Areas (EAXA).

The IFR is planned to be similar in scale and public impact to that experienced during the RAN 75th Anniversary in 1986 and the Bicentennial Naval Salute in 1988.


The full program of IFR planned events can be found on our Events page.

Book Now to Enjoy the Biggest Naval Event on Sydney Harbour this Century

The biggest naval event on Sydney Harbour this century will take place from October 3-11, 2013 and Sydneysiders, regional NSW residents and interstate visitors are advised to book accommodation early to avoid missing out.

The Royal Australian Navy is celebrating 100 years since the first RAN ships sailed into Sydney Harbour to great fanfare in 1913 – and it has asked 50 nations to join the party. Called the International Fleet Review (IFR), the celebrations will see 40 warships and 20 tall ships from around the world sail into Sydney Harbour for a week-long celebration.

Commencing on Thursday 3 October 2013 and concluding eight days later, the IFR will be a harbour spectacular no Australian will want to miss. Her Excellency the Governor-General, Quentin Bryce will welcome the fleet from Bradley’s Head on October 4, and officially review the fleet onboard HMAS Leeuwin on October 5 as part of the Ceremonial Fleet Review.

With the world heritage backdrop of Sydney Harbour setting the scene, the Royal Australian Navy band will perform while fixed and rotary wing aircraft fly past in formation overhead. Military demonstrations will be held, the official ceremony will be staged on the steps of the Opera House, and the event will conclude with a fireworks display fit for the occasion.

Other activities being planned include a combined naval march through the Sydney CBD, ships open to the public, inter-navy sporting competitions and a range of community and cultural events.

Whether you’re a navy buff or just keen not to miss the amazing pageantry of this historic event, now is the time to book your accommodation in Sydney to be sure you make the most of the week-long celebrations – and Metro Hotels has a number of properties from which to choose.

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the group’s flagship property located on the corner of Pitt and Hay Streets in the heart of Sydney’s entertainment precinct. Having recently completed a two year refurbishment, the hotel now offers 220 fully-refurbished Superior and Deluxe rooms, all priced affordably.

Metro Hotel on Pitt is a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, within easy walking distance of Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, The Rocks, Pitt Street Mall, Queen Victoria Building, Hyde Park and Chinatown, while Metro Apartments Darling Harbour provides easy access to the popular harbour restaurant precinct of King Street Wharf and Cockle Bay, as well as IMAX, Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife World and Australian Maritime Museum and Star Casino.

For those looking for something a little quieter and out of the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Aspire Hotel Sydney in Ultimo is just a short stroll to Darling Harbour, the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre and Sydney Entertainment Centre.

International Fleet Review - Sydney Australia 3-11 October 2013

Don't Miss the Nation's Most Significant Commemorative Naval Event in the Past 100 Years

International Fleet Review - Sydney 2013

White Bay Cruise Terminal

White Bay Cruise Terminal

ADDRESS: White Bay Cruise Terminal Access via James Craig Road, Rozelle

GETTING THERE: Entry to the terminal is off James Craig Road, Rozelle.

Passenger set down and pick up is available in the terminal precinct and short-term parking for those passengers with a valid itinerary is available on-site.

The nearest public bus stop for passengers is located on Robert Street (as shown on map).

ARRIVING AND DEPARTING
Arriving passengers will need to reclaim their luggage and then clear customs and immigration before exiting the terminal. Once you have exited the terminal there is a designated pick up bay for private vehicles and access to short-term car parking that will assist you in exiting the precinct or you can catch a taxi at the on-site taxi rank. A public bus stop is accessible from Robert Street.

Departing passengers should refer to their itinerary regarding what time they need to be present at the terminal for check-in as times do vary.

Bag drop facilities are available for the majority of ships from 9.00am. Check with your booking agent if you need to utilise this facility.

The terminal is open to those people farewelling travelling passengers.

TERMINAL FACILITIES - Terminal facilities include:
1.Toilets

2.A food and beverage kiosk

3.Wheelchair access

4.On-site short-term parking.

5.Public payphones

6.ATM

There is no foreign exchange or post office on-site and passengers should also be aware that there is no Duty Free available for purchase in the terminal.

 All further queries regarding your trip should be directed to your booking agent.

CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATION
International cruise voyage – all passengers departing on an international cruise voyage need to complete an outbound passenger card as well as a health card questionnaire. Both documents will be made available to you once inside the terminal.

Domestic cruise voyage – all passengers departing on a domestic cruise voyage need to complete a health questionnaire card which will be made available to you once inside the terminal. There is no requirement to complete an outbound passenger card.

TOURIST REFUND SCHEME (TRS)
A TRS desk is available in both terminals on international cruises. TRS enables you to claim a refund for the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) that you paid on goods you have purchased in Australia. You can claim the TRS from Customs at embarkation after you have checked in.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS
Both the Overseas Passenger Terminal and the White Bay Cruise Terminal have wheelchair accessibility to the terminal and to the ship.

THINGS TO BRING
1. International Cruise – individual passport with a validity of at least six months.

2. Domestic Cruise – Government agency issued Photo ID.

3. Your booking itinerary is required for all cruises.

4. If you take regular medication ensure that you have sufficient supplies to last the length of your holiday. It is also wise to consider taking a couple of days extra supply in case of unforeseen changes in your plans.

WHAT NOT TO BRING
You are NOT permitted to bring any alcohol onboard for personal consumption.

Duty-free, tax-free and personal alcohol purchased onshore must be surrendered by passengers at embarkation or prior to boarding at any port.

USEFUL LINKS
NSW Transport Information http://www.131500.com.au/

Destination NSW http://www.visitnsw.com/ Metro Apartments Darling Harbour

http://www.metrohotels.com.au/doc/metro-apartments-darling-harbour-factsheet.pdf

Put in the CRUISE code word and Get 10% off the Best Available Rate

Carnival Legend 2014 Sydney Arrival To Be ... Legendary

Carnival Legend

Carnival Legend, Carnival Spirit’s sister ship will be arriving in Sydney next year from the East Coast of the USA, with described by Carnival as custom built to create history making holidays, and paying tribute to some of the world’s greatest legends throughout the ages.

Carnival says that guest can take a dip in the Camelot and Avalon pools, wish for magic at Club Merlin Casino and taste iconic flavours at Truffles Restaurant, while music lovers can head for Satchmo’s Lounge and Billie’s Piano Bar, then dance the night away at Medusa’s Lair Dance Club.

Onboard features include a wide range of bars, dining choices and a variety of fun outdoor activities including the iconic Water Park and Green Thunder Waterslide, as well as indoor and relaxation options and exciting entertainment. 

Carnival Legend will sail from the East Coast of America mid-August 2014 arriving in Sydney on 22 September 2014, with itineraries on offer including a 13 day cruise from Tampa to Los Angeles sailing through the Panama Canal, Costa Rica and Mexico departing on 17 August 2014 and a 23 day cruise from Los Angeles to Sydney sailing through Tahiti, Fiji and Noumea departing on 30 August 2014.

Travel the World is also offering Carnival Legend guests the opportunity to combine the two itineraries for a legendary 36 day cruise experience sailing from Tampa to Sydney through Mexico, Tahiti, Fiji and Noumea.

View Source

Australian Navy: International Fleet Review 2013 Sydney

The Royal Australian Navy is celebrating 100 years since the first RAN ships sailed into Sydney Harbour in 1913. Ships from more 20 nations comprising around 40 warships and 17 tall ships, plus 8000 naval personnel will help celebrate Navy’s historic event between 3 -11 October 2013.

More than 20 nations have confirmed participation by either a warship or tall ship including: Australia, Brunei, Canada, China, Colombia, France, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Micronesia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Russia, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, Tonga, United Kingdom and the United States of America.

Australian and foreign warships plus the tall ships will be open at these events for what is a rare opportunity for the public to go on board some ships.

The flagship HMAS Australia will lead the new Australian Fleet of seven cruisers and destroyers (HMA Ships Melbourne, Sydney, Encounter, Warrego, Parramatta and Yarra) into Sydney Harbour for the first time.

The program will include: a tall ships parade; warships arrival; ceremonial fleet review; naval gun salutes; fixed wing and helicopter flypasts; aerial acrobatic displays; Sydney Harbour fireworks and light show; ships open to visitors; combined naval march through the streets of Sydney; military band concerts; Freedom of Entry parades in Parramatta and Mosman; religious and memorial services; and sporting competitions. Military and historic aircraft will also feature prominently during the Review with more than 30 RAN and visiting navy helicopters and fixed wing aircraft taking part.

UPDATE: The United States Navy guided-missile cruiser USS Chosin (CG 65) and the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s Qingdao, a Luhu-class guided missile destroyer from China have confirmed their attendance taking the total number of visiting warships to 23. With the combined might of the Royal Australian Navy's ships and the tall ships there will be a fleet of 60 ships arriving in Sydney Harbour for the event. During Open Days on 6 and 7 October 2013 members of the public will have the opportunity to visit both warships and tall ships at Garden Island, Barangaroo and Darling Harbour. 

More event information is available on the International Fleet Review 2013 website and their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/IFR2013

• Date: 3 October 2013 - 11 October 2013
• Time: Refer to the Schedule of Events below
• Where: Various locations around Sydney, NSW. See below for details
• Website: http://www.navy.gov.au/ifr/
• Cost: Free

Schedule of Events

Note: The following program is subject to change.

1 October 2013

• 1200-1600 Warships enter Jervis Bay.

2 October 2013

• 1830-2030 Welcome Reception hosted by Chief of Navy. Location: Royal Australian Naval College, HMAS Creswell (Invited Guests).

3 October 2013

• 1100 Tall ships entry. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• 0730 Warships depart Jarvis Bay for passage to Sydney.
• 1830 Tall ships welcome reception. Location: Australian National Maritime Museum (Invited Guests).

4 October 2013

• 0600-1600 Warships enter Sydney Harbour
• 1000 Ceremonial Fleet Entry and 21 Gun Salute. HMA Ships Sydney, Darwin, Perth, Parramatta, Bundaberg, Diamantina and Yarra. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• 1100-1600 Australian Surf Rowers Reception. Location: Sydney Opera House.
• 1830-2030 Visiting Ships Welcome Reception. Location: Garden Island (Invited Guests).

5 October 2013

• Dress ship. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• 1100-1430 Ceremonial Fleet Review. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• 1130-1200 Formation flypast by rotary and fixed winged aircraft. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• 1400-1900 Military demonstrations and Naval band performances.
• 1800-2030 Combined IFR Official Reception. Location: Sydney Opera House Forecourt (Invited Guests).
• 1930-2000 Pyrotechnics and Lightshow. Location: Sydney Harbour.

6 October 2013

• 1000-1130 HMAS Sydney Memorial Service. Location: Naval Memorial, Bradley's Head.
• 1300-1800 Tall ships open to the general public. Location: Cockle Bay/Darling Harbour (TBC).
• 1300-1800 Warships Open Day. Location: Fleet Base East, Garden Island/Barangaroo.
• 1400-1530 Ecumenical Service. Location: St Mary's Cathedral.

7 October 2013

• 0730-1015 Opening of Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
• Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
• 0800-1800 Warships Open Day. Location: Fleet Base East, Garden Island/Barangaroo.
• 0800-1800 Tall ships open to the general public. Location: Cockle Bay/Darling Harbour (TBC).

8 October 2013

• 0800-1700 Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition continue. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour
• Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
• 1000-1500 Combined Navies Golf Competition. Location: The Coast Golf Club.
• 1230-1400 HMAS Penguin Freedom of Entry to Mosman. Location: Mosman Central Business District.
• 1230-1400 Navy Memorial Service. Location: Cenotaph, Martin Place.
• 1300-1430 HMAS Parramatta Freedom of Entry to Parramatta. Location: Parramatta Central Business District.
• 1830-2030 Vice Regal Reception. Location: Government House, Botanic Gardens (Invited Guests).

9 October 2013

• 1030-1100 Sea Power Conference 2013 Closing Ceremony. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
• 1230-1430 Combined Navies Parade. Location: George Street - The Rocks to Town Hall.
• 1430-1630 Lord Mayor's Reception. Location: Sydney Town Hall (Invited Guests).
• 1400-1630 Pacific 2013 IFR Ships Companies Lunch. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
• Closing of Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
• 1500-1730 Twilight sailing with RAN Sailing Association. Location: Sydney Harbour.

10 October 2013

• 1100 Tall ships depart. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• 1000-1500 Combined Navies Sporting Competition. Location: Randwick Barracks/Macquarie Park.

11 October 2013

• Warships depart. Location: Sydney Harbour.

Need affordable and comfortable accommodation close to the fleet locations in Sydney Harbour?

Metro Hotels offer comfortable hotel rooms and apartments around Sydney city that will keep you close these venues and major public transport hubs. 

So whether you're coming from interstate to Sydney or coming from overseas, we've got you covered!

• Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour (close walk to Sydney Harbour)
• Metro Hotel Sydney Central (close walk or bus/taxi ride to Sydney Harbour)
• Metro Hotel on Pitt (close train/bus or taxi ride to Sydney Harbour)
• Aspire Hotel Sydney Ultimo (close train/bus or taxi ride to Sydney Harbour)

Each hotel or serviced apartment is close to major train stations, buses or ferries. Because all four hotels are situated in the city, there are plenty of taxis available to catch on the street. Many of the fleet locations can be reached by foot from our hotels. Nearby there are also supermarkets, shops, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs, medical centres and public toilets all within walking distance.