Newcastle

From a Newcastle berth, a shuttle takes passengers into town in probably 10 mins. You cannot simply leave the ship and walk into the CBD; shuttles are usually free and frequent, and private cars cannot enter the docking area.

Take a map with you.

Newcastle was originally a destination for the worst-behaved convicts. It remains the world's largest coal-export harbour, but the city is experiencing a renaissance as wharf renewal projects bring new life to the harbour.

The city centre is bounded by the Hunter River to the north and the ocean to the east. Its north-eastern CBD corner contains the train station, bus terminal, post office and banks.

The Newcastle Tourist Association is excellent: its helpful volunteers make a visit to the city straightforward and welcoming.

Light rail now operates from Wickham to the top of the CBD.

Europcar at Wickham is the nearest hire-car company to the Port. It is a short taxi journey from the wharf, costing about $10.

Bus timetables are available for Port Stephens.

Port Stephens is less than an hour's drive away. It is an area rather than a town, a distinction that often causes confusion, and its sheltered bay includes a chain of coastal communities whose welcoming residents care deeply about their environment. The area is celebrated for beaches, its holiday atmosphere and whale and dolphin watching.

Hunter Valley is Australia's oldest wine-producing region. Cessnock, next to the Lower Hunter wine area including the Pokolbin district, is 50 minutes from Newcastle CBD by car.

The wharf has art and craft market stalls alongside food and wine tasting stalls.

Hunter St runs along the peninsula and is the city's main shopping street. On the Hunter River, Honeysuckle Dr's wharf district is being extensively redeveloped, with new bars and restaurants appearing regularly. Colourful Darby St runs south and is lined with cafés, restaurants, galleries and boutique shops.

The Australian Dollar is the local currency.