14 Night New Zealand & Australia Cruise departing from Auckland to Sydney onboard Oosterdam.

Officially christened in 2003 by Her Dutch Royal Highness, Princess Margriet of the Netherlands, the ms Oosterdam is the second in our series of Vista-class ships. As such she embraces the latest industry and environmental technologies such as her use of a diesel-electric power plant for optimal energy efficiency and an Azipod propulsion system that maximizes maneuverability.

Symbolic of Holland America Line's more than 135-year history of circumnavigating the globe, the centerpiece of the ms Oosterdam is a magnificent Waterford crystal globe, prominently displayed in a three-story atrium. First-time cruisers aboard this ship will quickly recognize the traditional touches that make Holland America cruisers regulars: a warm palette of colors accentuating an extensive use of crystal, marble, inlaid woods and brass, lovely flower arrangements, priceless artwork and antiques and a full wraparound teak promenade deck with padded deck chairs.

Highlights of this cruise:

Sydney
First came the Aborigines, 50,000 years ago; then 759 British convicts, followed by a wave of military settlers known as the Rum Corps. The result: Sydney's bold, egalitarian charm. History, opera, opals and koalas are all here.

Hobart
The capital of Tasmania, Hobart lies along the Derwent River and is dominated by the breathtaking Mount Wellington. Stroll the harbor side docks to browse artist studios, relax at a local café, and visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. Nearby, sample the famous wines of Coal River Valley or view the magnificent cliffs of Port Arthur.

Dunedin
Dunedin's Scottish heritage is everywhere, evident in its statue of poet Robert Burns, in the work of its kilt makers and whisky distilleries and in its ornate Victorian train station. Aye, there's even a castle that emphasizes the kinship.

Wellington
New Zealand's friendly capital city features gaily painted old wooden houses and a red cable car that takes you up to the Wellington Botanic Gardens and a fine view of the harbor. A must-see is the engaging Te Papa Museum.

Napier
A city of vision, rebuilt in the striking, clean style of art deco after a devastating earthquake in 1931 and reinvented as a center for gourmet food and wines.

Auckland
Set between two sparkling harbors, the "City of Sails" boasts the greatest number of boats per capita of any city in the world. (One, Black Magic, won the 1995 America s Cup!) Here, too, are beautiful beaches, expansive parks, fascinating Polynesian culture.