36 Night World Cruise sector sailing from Melbourne to Southampton aboard Queen Mary 2.

Queen Mary 2's World Voyage of 106 nights will take guests to the opposite side of the globe and back embracing 34 ports in 18 countries. Markedly six of these ports will be maiden calls for Queen Mary 2; Abu Dhabi, Colombo, Langkawi, Ko Samui, Lyttleton (for Christchurch) and Port Elizabeth. Queen Mary 2's World Voyage will feature overnight calls in Dubai, Hong Kong and Cape Town.

Highlights of this cruise sector:

Melbourne
Originally part of New South Wales, Victoria became a colony in its own right in 1851. The discovery of gold and the development of agriculture propelled Melbourne's rise to prominence and prosperity. Flower gardens and graceful, tree-lined boulevards add a refined air to Melbourne, regarded as the hub of Australia's cultural, intellectual and financial life - at least by Melbournians! Modern skyscrapers mingle comfortably with Victorian homes, and an aura of upper-class elegance pervades. If you find country pleasures more appealing, ride the historic steam train "Puffing Billy" past forests and farms, before having lunch at a Yarra Glen vineyard.

Perth
Perth's explosive growth in recent decades has engulfed the old historic port of Fremantle. Eighty-percent of Western Australia's population lives in and around Perth. This bustling port, known as "Freo" to the locals, sits on the Indian Ocean and offers a romantic, artsy ambiance to residents and visitors alike. You could fill your day sitting in outdoor cafes or strolling through lively markets. Or head into the vibrant city of Perth for an outing to the Botanic Gardens or visit some of the best museums in Australia.

Cape Town
The "Mother City" has welcomed sailors since Portuguese navigators first rounded the Cape of Good Hope in the 15th century. Not only is it one of the most beautiful cities in the world - tucked into the arms of a broad bay, beneath Table Mountain - but it is also surrounded by magnificent beaches, rugged mountains and bucolic vineyards. On a fine day you can ride the cable car to the summit of flat-topped Table Mountain, surrounded by views of picturesque Cape Town with the Cape of Good Hope in the distance.

Funchal
Funchal is home to a third of the island's population. The city is noted for its superb hand-embroidery and wicker ware, both Madeiran specialities. The island, of course, is also noted for its superb wines: they are perhaps the world's most complex and long lasting wines. Lush botanical gardens and superbly landscaped terraces adorn the hills above the capital. Settle down in a local cafe and soak up the scenery with a perfectly chilled glass of local wine.

Southampton
The United Kingdom's premier passenger ship port, Southampton was home to the great transatlantic liners of yesteryear. The port serves as your gateway to Southern England's magnificent historic sites, national landmarks, charming villages as well as the great metropolis of London. It is an ideal starting or ending point for a memorable voyage.