Superstar Leo (2004)

In late 2003 when the SARS epidemic spread to South East Asia and China, Star Cruises repositioned their Singapore and Hong Kong based ships, Superstar Leo and Superstar Virgo to Australia until the crisis passed. In order to fill the ships at such short notice, very competitive fares were offered on board these ships for a series of cruises for Fremantle, Melbourne and Sydney. I took up one of these offers for a five day cruise from Melbourne to Hobart and back on board Superstar Leo from 29th January to 3rd February 2004. This cruise included an overnight in Hobart and a day's cruising around Bruny Island, Tasmania. I enjoyed the ship and would have liked to spend longer aboard her, especially on a warmer weather cruise.

Superstar Leo sailing from Melbourne on the previous cruise to mine on 23rd January.

 Melbourne - January 29

Outer West Station Pier from the top deck of the ship.

My balcony cabin.

The pool deck.

The children's pool and play area at the stern of the ship.

The lobby.

The main restaurant, overlooking the stern.

The lookout bar and lounge above the bridge.

The ship's Chinese decor is very evident in this stairwell.

This room looking into the bridge also held information and memerobilia about the ship.

Hobart - January 31 to February 1

Early morning on the Derwent River, approaching Hobart, taken from my cabin balcony on 31st January.

Coming alongside in Hobart.

The ship at Princess Wharf, taken from the Grand Chancellor Hotel.

Evening in Hobart.

Sailing from Hobart 1st February

Sailing around Bruny Island.

The shore tour guide giving passengers a commentary (left) and the Hobart pilot (2nd from left)

The ship's Captain (standing, left)

Arriving back at Station Pier 3rd February.