Port Stephens

Regarded as a water lover's paradise, Port Stephens is located just less than 60km from Newcastle and is an absolute must-see while in town.

Boasting 26 golden sandy beaches, unforgettable National Parks and unique dolphin encounters, Port Stephens is one of Australia's best natural treasures.

Take some time to climb the sand dunes, go camel or horse riding on the beach, or hire a quad bike for an afternoon of frolicking in the sand.

Hunter Valley

As far as Australian wine regions go, you simply cannot look past the spectacular Hunter Valley. Offering 4,000 acres of vines and 90 world-class wineries, a day in the Hunter Valley will reward you time and time again.

Absorb the incredible scenery this area is known for while winery hopping, picking up some of your favourite drops along the way.

Some of the most popular wineries in this region include McWilliams Mt Pleasant, Tyrell's Wines and Tower Estate.

Average Temperatures

• January: 22°C
• February: 22°C
• March: 21°C
• April: 19°C
• May: 16°C
• June: 14°C
• July: 13°C
• August: 14°C
• September: 16°C
• October: 18°C
• November: 19°C
• December: 21°C

Dining Suggestions

The city of Newcastle is a cultural hub of interesting dining experiences. Newcastle's food scene is evident through the four main food precincts within the city.

Darby Street in Cooks Hill combines cafe culture with art galleries and boutique shops, while The Harbour waterfront offers diners unsurpassed views of the stunning coastal setting.

Beaumont Street in Hamilton is home to an impressive array of Italian and Greek restaurants, while The Junction is an up market shopping precinct that also offers world-class restaurants and cafes.

What to bring to shore?

Comfortable shoes are a must if you plan on doing a lot of walking around.

If you are staying outdoors, a hat and sunscreen are a must!

Make sure you don't forget your camera either!

Docking

Your cruise ship will dock at the Port of Newcastle, which is a 20 minute walk from the city centre

Taxis are widely available.

General Information

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD$)

Language: English

Population: 288,732

Time Zone: AEST (UTC+10)

Note:P&O Cruises for 2012: Newcastle Cruises departs in February and March