Making the most of Newcastle
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
When you are docked in Newcastle you will be shuttled into town - probably a 10 mins drive. You are not allowed to simply walk off the ship and into the CBD. Shuttles are most times free and continuous. Private cars are not allowed into that docking area.
Map to take along.
It was originally the destination for the worstbehaved convicts. Today it continues to be the largest coal export harbor in the world, but the city is undergoing something of a renaissance. Wharf rejuvenation projects are breathing new life into the harbor.
The city center is bordered by the Hunter River to the north and the ocean to the east. The train station, bus terminal, post office and banks are located at the CBD’s northeastern corner.
The Newcastle Tourist Association is great - all the volunteers are so helpful and they made visiting their city very easy, and very friendly
Getting around
The light rail from Wickham to the top of the CBD is now in operation
The nearest Hire car company to the Port is Europcar at Wickham. It is a short taxi trip from the wharf and the trip costs about $10.
Bus schedules to Port Stephens.
Nearby places
Port Stephens is less than an hour's drive. Port Stephens is an area, not a town, which often confuses people. The stunning sheltered bay incorporates a string of coastal towns populated by welcoming locals with a passion for their local environment. It is famous for its holiday lifestyle and beaches, and for whale and dolphin watching.
Hunter Valley - Australia's oldest wine-producing region; the town of Cessnock, adjacent to the Lower Hunter wine region (including the Pokolbin district) is 50 minutes drive from the Newcastle CBD.
Food and shopping
Art & craft market stalls and food & wine tasting stalls on the wharf.
Hunter St runs down the length of the peninsula and is the city’s major shopping street. On the banks of the Hunter River, the wharf area of Honeysuckle Dr is undergoing major development with new restaurants and bars constantly springing up. Running south, colorful Darby St is lined with cafes, restaurants, galleries and boutique shops.
Money
Australian Dollar