Dawn Princess (2011/2012) - Post 1

I spent Christmas and New Year on board one of my regular ships, Dawn Princess, for back to back Melbourne / New Zealand / Melbourne cruises. While the weather was mostly poor, the cruises were excellent, the highlights being the food, superb dining room and lounge service, catching up with friends Peter Stacey and Alison aboard for lunch in Wellington and with John Rendle and Gail for lunch ashore in Akaroa. I joined the ship in Sydney for her repositioning voyage to Melbourne, prior to the first Melbourne based cruise for the season.

12th. December - Departure Sydney

14th. and 27th. December - Departure Melbourne

On the 27th. December departure from Melbourne, the ship was piloted by my good friend, Captain Brian Liley (above). The ship's Captain kindly allowed me to be on the bridge for the departure.

 The view at Port Phillip heads, looking astern as the ship swings around on to the leads to exit the bay.

The pilot launch approaching the ship with Point Nepean in the background.

 Brian on the pilot launch, having just disembarked the ship.


 17th. December and 6th. January - Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
Weather permitting, most cruise ships visiting New Zealand cruise through Milford, Dusky and Doubtful Sounds, providing passengers with spectacular scenery.

Leaving Milford Sound.