Grand Pacific Expedition – Los Angels to Sydney - REG231004C Regatta departing 4 Oct 2023

Bask on the sun-kissed beaches of Malibu or shop along Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Ride a bike through Griffith Park and visit the observatory, just below the Hollywood sign. Visit the stunning Getty Museum and maybe take in a special concert at the Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry.

The oldest American settlement west of the Rockies, Astoria was established in 1811 on the Columbia River. The city is known as the “Little San Francisco of the Pacific Northwest” because of the colorful Victorian homes clinging to its steep hills. A fine example of that late 1800s architecture is the Flavel House, now a museum with period furnishings.

Western Canada’s oldest city, Victoria proudly displays its British heritage. Explore lavish Craigdarroch Castle, built in the late 1800s for a Scottish coal baron. Trace the area’s early British seafarers in the Marine Museum of British Columbia. There’s even a Royal London Wax Museum with likenesses of King Henry VIII and Winston Churchill.

By far the largest port on Regatta’s Alaska cruises, Vancouver offers every imaginable big-city attraction. Explore the Museum of Anthropology and the Vancouver Art Museum for culture. History flourishes in the Gastown district, which borders vibrant Chinatown. Or enjoy a break from the bustle in Stanley Park, one of North America’s largest urban parks.

Totem poles are one of Ketchikan’s chief attractions, and the best places to view them are Saxman Village and Totem Bight State Park. Drop by the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center to learn about the local cultures and ecosystems.

Called “Shee Atika” by the Tlingit Indians, then “New Archangel” by the Russians who ousted them, Sitka boasts a multicultural heritage. Two dozen of its attractions are on the National Register of Historic Places, including Castle Hill and Building 29, a structure built by the Russians in 1835. The Sheldon Jackson Museum exhibits one of Alaska’s oldest native culture collections.

While most cruise ships merely turn around here, Regatta actually calls on Seward, which is named for the U.S. Secretary of State who negotiated the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867. The Seward Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts. The Alaska SeaLife Center showcases the abundant marine life, and nearby Chugach National Forest is a natural paradise.

The tiny village of Kodiak clings to the “Emerald Isle” of Kodiak, which is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. In summer the island is a mosaic of flora that includes wildflowers, moss-laden spruce, Pacific red elder, and blueberries, which the brown bears feast on. You may also spot puffins, red foxes and killer whales.

Located on Amaknak Island and linked via bridge to Unalaska Island, Dutch Harbor is a place of historical significance, stunning natural beauty and resilient people. Walk in the footsteps of the indigenous Aleut, or Unangan, people by following trails established thousands of years ago. The paths take you through swaths of wildflowers dotting green valleys from which rise volcanic peaks surrounded by the sea, a windswept land so pristine you will forget that signs of civilization are nearby. Even so, Russian fur traders and American armed forces did make their marks here. The U.S established a naval base in 1940, and Dutch Harbor became a theater for World War II when the Japanese bombed it in 1942. While intriguing museums recall a turbulent past, today Dutch Harbor embraces the peaceful nature of its scenic surroundings and thrives as a fishing “village” that brings in the largest catch in the country.

Once Hokkaido’s bustling financial center, the small harbor city of Otaru is a popular weekend getaway for the Japanese. It offers a charming canal lined with early 20th-century brick and stone buildings, along with plenty of museums and restaurants, not to mention the unique herring mansions, built by wealthy fishermen during the 19th and 20th centuries. Sapporo, only 30 minutes by train from Otaru, is the 5th largest city in Japan and likewise offers a sought-after food scene, plentiful shopping, green spaces and galleries in spades. Foodies won’t want to miss Nijo Fish Market, a 100-year-old market favored by locals that’s also full of places to try regional specialties.

Muroran (室蘭市, Muroran-shi) is a city and port located in Iburi Subprefecture, Hokkaido, Japan. It is the capital city of Iburi Subprefecture. As of February 29, 2012, the city has an estimated population of 93,716

Miyako is a city located in Iwate Prefecture, Japan. As of 1 April 2020, the city had an estimated population of 51,150, and a population density of 41 persons per km². The total area of the city is 1,259.15 square kilometers.

Sendai is a city in Japan’s Tohoku Region, northeast of Tokyo on Honshu island. The remains of 17th-century Sendai Castle, built for samurai lord Date Masamune on Aoba Hill, overlook the city and include a museum of historic artifacts. The Sendai City Museum focuses on the history and culture of Japan’s Edo period, and displays Masamune’s samurai armor.

Dazzling cityscapes await your exploration; visit Asakusa for the bright lights, street fairs and Senso-ji Temple; the Tsukiji Market, the largest open-air fish market in the world with on-the-spot sushi; and the Imperial Palace’s East Garden for some calm. Spend the evening in the bright, active Ginza District, where the night comes alive.

In the shadow of Mount Fuji, Shimizu is one of the most beautiful ports in Japan. Walk through the pine groves of Miho, home to a 650-year-old Japanese black pine, or enjoy spectacular views of Mount Fuji from the lush, forested hill of Nihondaira. Take in the seascapes on a bay cruise, or learn of undersea delights at Japan’s first sushi museum. For a historic angle, get a glimpse at feudal life in Japan in 200 BC at the archaeological site of Toro.

Visit the breathtaking temples and shrines of Japan’s old imperial capital, Kyoto, or explore ancient Nara, the cradle of Japanese arts, literature and crafts, with its magnificent shrines and temples that predate Kyoto’s. Stroll through Nara Park, famed for its deer and impressive Kasuga Grand Shrine. Then travel on to Osaka and its famed castle. In Kobe, visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tile.

Visit the breathtaking temples and shrines of Japan’s old imperial capital, Kyoto, or explore ancient Nara, the cradle of Japanese arts, literature and crafts, with its magnificent shrines and temples that predate Kyoto’s. Stroll through Nara Park, famed for its deer and impressive Kasuga Grand Shrine. Then travel on to Osaka and its famed castle. In Kobe, visit historic Himeji Castle, a huge edifice built entirely of wood and tile.

Visit the skeletal A-Bomb Dome, the Peace Memorial Park and Museum and the statue dedicated to the children who died after the atomic bomb was dropped on this city in 1945. Stroll through beautifully landscaped Hiroshima Gardens, visit the rebuilt Hiroshima Castle or journey to the exquisite sacred island of Miyajima and see the extraordinary Itsukushima Shrine.

Visit the exquisite Iso-Teien Garden and its villa, built in 1660, and enjoy its gorgeous views before a short ferry ride to smoking Sakurajima for a close-up view of the volcano and its lava fields. Or journey into the countryside to Chiran and its well-preserved streets lined with samurai homes. Enjoy the beautiful landscape of Lake Ikeda and the stunning vistas of the Satsuma Peninsula.

See the amazing contrasts of this burgeoning city, from the broad European-style Bund to the soaring ultra-modern buildings. Visit the magnificent art museum and the renowned 16th century Yu Yuan Gardens. Enjoy the city by night, see an acrobatic show, browse in local markets or take a trip to one of the famed garden cities of Suzhou or Wuxi.

See the amazing contrasts of this burgeoning city, from the broad European-style Bund to the soaring ultra-modern buildings. Visit the magnificent art museum and the renowned 16th century Yu Yuan Gardens. Enjoy the city by night, see an acrobatic show, browse in local markets or take a trip to one of the famed garden cities of Suzhou or Wuxi.

Naha is the capital and the largest city in the Okinawa Prefecture, which is made up of more than 150 islands. This part of Japan was once an independent entity – the Ryukyu Kingdom. Learn about its fascinating history at the Okinawa Prefectural Museum and discover traditional Okinawan crafts at locations in the city like Naha City Traditional Arts & Crafts Center. If you’re up for a day trip, visit the ruins of Nakijin Castle less than 60 miles north – you’ll find much to explore on a trek through the grounds of this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site. Also nearby is the Churaumi Aquarium, where two huge whale sharks and a delightful dolphin show are among the highlights.

On this fascinating island visit the world’s tallest building, the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial, the fabulous Palace Museum’s vast collection of Chinese art and the lovely Lungshan Temple. Explore lovely Keelung’s historic sites and Yeliu Park’s astonishing rock formations.

The canal-like Love River flows through the heart of this wonderfully modern city, and a boat ride along its shores reveals Kaohsiung’s beauty. The former British Consulate, built in 1865, is a historic landmark juxtaposed with more modern sites such as the Kaohsiung Museum of Fine Arts, known for its contemporary sculptures.

Experience old and new Hong Kong with its ultra-modern high-rise buildings beside street markets and lovely temples. Visit the boat people in Aberdeen and shop in Stanley Market or stroll through the bustling Temple Street night market. Visit Hollywood Road with its temple and antique shops or take a junk cruise and explore the magnificent bay. Travel to the New Territories to see family shrines, the wishing tree and the preserved wetlands. Or visit Lantau Island and the Po Lin Monastery with its giant Buddha statue.

Experience old and new Hong Kong with its ultra-modern high-rise buildings beside street markets and lovely temples. Visit the boat people in Aberdeen and shop in Stanley Market or stroll through the bustling Temple Street night market. Visit Hollywood Road with its temple and antique shops or take a junk cruise and explore the magnificent bay. Travel to the New Territories to see family shrines, the wishing tree and the preserved wetlands. Or visit Lantau Island and the Po Lin Monastery with its giant Buddha statue.

Drink in the exquisite beauty of Ha Long Bay with its breathtaking monolithic limestone islands and famous morning mists before traveling along the Red River to Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi. Enjoy the broad boulevards, French colonial architecture and wonderful Old Quarter. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Vuon Bach Thao park where locals practice Tai Chi.

Drink in the exquisite beauty of Ha Long Bay with its breathtaking monolithic limestone islands and famous morning mists before traveling along the Red River to Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi. Enjoy the broad boulevards, French colonial architecture and wonderful Old Quarter. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Vuon Bach Thao park where locals practice Tai Chi.

Hue, the former imperial capital on the Perfume River, beckons with its lovely temples, pagodas and imposing citadel protected by a moat. Explore its many attractions, including tombs of Nguyen dynasty emperors, by boat. Visit the iconic Trang Tien Bridge, which connects the ancient citadel area with Hue across the river, and stroll among the town’s colonial-style buildings and outdoor cafés. In nearby Da Nang, visit famed China Beach and the intriguing Cham Museum, filled with fascinating artifacts of the Cham culture.

Hue, the former imperial capital on the Perfume River, beckons with its lovely temples, pagodas and imposing citadel protected by a moat. Explore its many attractions, including tombs of Nguyen dynasty emperors, by boat. Visit the iconic Trang Tien Bridge, which connects the ancient citadel area with Hue across the river, and stroll among the town’s colonial-style buildings and outdoor cafés. In nearby Da Nang, visit famed China Beach and the intriguing Cham Museum, filled with fascinating artifacts of the Cham culture.

Discover this bustling resort town, renowned for its turquoise waters and yellow sand beaches. See its grand colonial buildings and stroll across a bridge to a fishing village alive with trawlers and junks. Visit the celebrated Cham Towers of Po Nagar, a spot revered by Buddhists. In the countryside, experience rural life in Vietnam today.

Discover the rich heritage of Saigon and the rural Mekong Delta. See the city’s lovely pagodas, colonial architecture and broad boulevards. Ride a local pedicab through the bustling streets; visit the vibrant markets, Chinatown and the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels. Explore the lush countryside of farms, rice paddies and villages with a cruise on the Mekong.

Discover the rich heritage of Saigon and the rural Mekong Delta. See the city’s lovely pagodas, colonial architecture and broad boulevards. Ride a local pedicab through the bustling streets; visit the vibrant markets, Chinatown and the fascinating Cu Chi tunnels. Explore the lush countryside of farms, rice paddies and villages with a cruise on the Mekong.

Think beaches and snorkeling, as Sihanoukville sits on the beautiful island-studded Bay of Thailand. Wats, or Buddhist temples, are abundant and often modest architecturally, as seen at Wat Otres behind Otres Beach. There are even two wats in Ream National Park, a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Indulge your senses in the city’s fabulous golden temples and palaces, the royal barges and the Emerald Buddha. Explore the hidden city of teak mansions and lovely gardens or learn about Thai culture. The Royal Palace, familiar to many as the scene of the true story of Anna and the King of Siam, is a massive complex of carved and gilded buildings still used by the Thai royal family. Or visit the home of Jim Thompson, former spy and promoter of the local silk industry who disappeared mysteriously.

Indulge your senses in the city’s fabulous golden temples and palaces, the royal barges and the Emerald Buddha. Explore the hidden city of teak mansions and lovely gardens or learn about Thai culture. The Royal Palace, familiar to many as the scene of the true story of Anna and the King of Siam, is a massive complex of carved and gilded buildings still used by the Thai royal family. Or visit the home of Jim Thompson, former spy and promoter of the local silk industry who disappeared mysteriously.

Explore this idyllic, forested island and its pristine beaches. Visit the giant Buddha at Wat Phra Yai, the elephant camp where these intelligent animals display their work skills and a plantation where monkeys harvest coconuts. Head to the interior and see majestic cascading waterfalls and how rubber trees are tapped. Enjoy the gorgeous beaches.

Discover a delightful city of contrasts, from its old Chinese quarter and colorful Hindu temples to its modern skyscrapers, famous Tiger Balm Gardens and magnificent National Orchid Garden. Stroll along the Esplanade. Take a short cruise along the Singapore River and a tri-shaw ride through town. Visit the Kranji Memorial and Changi Chapel and Memorial, dedicated to those who lost their lives here during World War II.

Semarang is the capital and largest city of Central Java province in Indonesia. It was a major port during the Dutch colonial era, and is still an important regional center and port today.

Showcasing a dizzying array of cultural influences, this second-largest city in Indonesia was once the most important port of the Dutch East Indies. A prime example is the stately 19th-century House of Sampoerna, a colonial-style cigarette factory that houses a fascinating museum. Discover a vast selection of wares at Pasar Pabean, a lively market that links Chinatown and the Arab Quarter. At the Grand Mosque of Surabaya, one of Indonesia’s largest, climb the soaring minaret for better views of the gleaming blue and green tiles adorning the sanctuary’s domes. As a tranquil respite, settle in for high tea at the elegant Majapahit Hotel, a highlight of Surabaya’s complex and absorbing historical legacy.

Experience this exquisite island and its gentle people as you explore the lush countryside of terraced rice fields and mountains dotted with temples. Visit a royal palace, watch an entrancing dance performance, or see carvers at work. Enjoy villages filled with beautiful arts and crafts and the daily festivals with villagers parading in their finery to local temples.

Experience this exquisite island and its gentle people as you explore the lush countryside of terraced rice fields and mountains dotted with temples. Visit a royal palace, watch an entrancing dance performance, or see carvers at work. Enjoy villages filled with beautiful arts and crafts and the daily festivals with villagers parading in their finery to local temples.

A fascinating pearling town celebrated for its Indian Ocean sunsets and rugged beauty, Broome also serves as the gateway to grand wilderness of the Kimberley region of Western Australia. In Broome, stroll the streets of Chinatown, discover famous Cable Beach by camel or visit the haunting Japanese pearl divers’ cemetery. During very low tide at Gantheaume Point, you can even see dinosaur footprints left behind 120 million years ago. For a true adventure, strike out into the spectacular Kimberley, a world of ancient gorges, unusual rock formations and epic waterways.

The hub of Australia’s Coral Coast, Geraldton features stunning beaches, a burgeoning culinary scene and a rich history. Step back in time with the city’s array of historical monuments and museums, including Point Moore Lighthouse, Birdwood Military Museum and St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. Visit Ellendale Pool, a natural pool surrounded by giant gum trees and a stunning rocky cliff. Perhaps spend a leisurely afternoon on one of the many sun-drenched beaches and watch the abundant kitesurfers in action – Geraldton is one of the top three kitesurfing locations in the world. Immerse yourself in the local cuisine at an eclectic café or serene seaside restaurant as you sample lobster fresh from the sea and typical regional dishes.

A stunning setting along Swan River and the Indian Ocean welcomes you into the laid-back city of Perth. At Kings Park, one of the few urban parks that dwarf Central Park, take in breathtaking views of downtown Perth and plan your day. Explore the city’s range of eclectic neighborhoods, immerse yourself in indigenous art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia, or discover Australia’s native wildlife at the Perth Zoo. Travel to nearby Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region, to visit one of the many historic vineyards for a tasting of excellent local wines. Meanwhile, discover Fremantle’s distinct character through its 19th century port streetscape. Dive into its seafaring history at the Western Australia Maritime Museum and Shipwreck Galleries, visit Fremantle Prison or explore the Manjaree Heritage Trail for a glimpse of life before European settlement.

A stunning setting along Swan River and the Indian Ocean welcomes you into the laid-back city of Perth. At Kings Park, one of the few urban parks that dwarf Central Park, take in breathtaking views of downtown Perth and plan your day. Explore the city’s range of eclectic neighborhoods, immerse yourself in indigenous art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia, or discover Australia’s native wildlife at the Perth Zoo. Travel to nearby Swan Valley, Western Australia’s oldest wine region, to visit one of the many historic vineyards for a tasting of excellent local wines. Meanwhile, discover Fremantle’s distinct character through its 19th century port streetscape. Dive into its seafaring history at the Western Australia Maritime Museum and Shipwreck Galleries, visit Fremantle Prison or explore the Manjaree Heritage Trail for a glimpse of life before European settlement.

Known as Western Australia’s premier resort town, Busselton is the perfect getaway to experience the combination of a slow-paced seaside town and a bustling cosmopolitan city. This beautiful city is an interesting locale on its own, but it is also a gateway port to the well-known Margaret River wine region. Busselton is known for its impeccable coastline and the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit the Underwater Observatory, a fantastic aquarium with more than 300 marine species waiting to be enjoyed. If you love natural beauty, enjoy the beautiful beaches and astonishing limestone caves. Culture and history lovers should visit the Busselton Museum or the Old Courthouse Art Complex, both providing an inside look into the ins and outs of the region both now and hundreds of years ago.

Western Australia’s oldest colonial settlement, Albany holds not only great historical significance but also immense natural beauty. Founded in 1826 as a British military outpost, the town evolved into a provisioning port for ships, a departure point for Australian troops bound for World War I, and eventually a base for the whaling industry. History buffs will be intrigued by sites such as the Anglican church, town hall, restored gaol and a one-of-a-kind whaling station museum, while the dramatic scenery of the rugged coastline will astound anyone fortunate enough to sail into Princess Royal Harbour. Known as Ataturk Entrance, the channel accessing the harbor from King George Sound is quite narrow, with forested peaks rising on either side from the rocky shores and sweeping white beaches. The view from your ship’s deck provides the perfect introduction to the natural wonders embracing this historic town.

South Australia’s coastal capital, Adelaide combines the charm of a picturesque country town with lively cosmopolitan offerings. Discover the region’s history at the South Australian Art Museum or browse local delicacies such as Adelaide Hills cheeses at the impressive Central Market. Visit Adelaide Oval, celebrated as the world’s prettiest cricket ground, for a behind-the-scenes look at the iconic stadium’s history. For a taste of the local wine culture, venture into the countryside to explore Barossa Valley, Clare Valley or McLaren Vale, three excellent nearby wine regions.

Perhaps one of Australia’s most beautiful hidden gems, Kangaroo Island is home to thriving native wildlife, dramatic coastal cliffs, lush eucalyptus forests, rolling green hills and gorgeous beaches. In Penneshaw, discover indigenous fairy penguins, the smallest species of penguin, or visit Island Beach for snorkeling, swimming and birdwatching. Travel to spectacular Flinders National Park to encounter koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, fur seals and massive rock formations, or visit Seal Bay Conservation Park for the unforgettable experience of walking among a colony of friendly sea lions. Or simply relax with a glass of sparkling shiraz and enjoy the views from Sunset Winery, perched on a hill overlooking the Eastern Cove.

Head into the scenic Dandenong Mountains and ride the Puffing Billy steam train through the forest. Meet the koalas, wallabies and more at a wildlife park or explore local wineries. Take a walk and discover the city’s marvelous architecture, chic galleries and boutiques.

Head into the scenic Dandenong Mountains and ride the Puffing Billy steam train through the forest. Meet the koalas, wallabies and more at a wildlife park or explore local wineries. Take a walk and discover the city’s marvelous architecture, chic galleries and boutiques.

Nestled in the northwest corner of Tasmania, this energetic and creative seaside town offers a unique perspective on the world of industry. Once dependent on paper manufacturing, the inventive community has transformed its industry into a compelling art culture. Visit Makers’ Workshop, part museum and part arts center, for an introduction to the inspired spirit of Burnie, along with a tour of the process of papermaking and a glimpse of local artisans at work on their handicrafts. Discover Burnie’s natural gems on the many trails at Fern Glade Reserve or the picturesque Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden.

Visit the famous Opera House, stroll along the harbor or cruise around it. Climb the Harbor Bridge, take a walk through the Rocks where Sydney began, or enjoy celebrated

Bondi Beach. Head into the beautiful Blue Mountains for a taste of the country; visit a wildlife park and enjoy Australia’s fabulously unique creatures.