From backpackers to businessmen, and from surfers to scientists, Australia holds something for everyone in its varied landscapes and laid back way of life. It is a country where an inconceivable climate has fostered an easygoing beach culture full of perfectly capped waves, picturesque harbours and the world-famous Great Barrier Reef. It is a place where vibrant coastal cities breathe life into the expansive, arid deserts of The Outback, and where cinnamon-red sands, lush rainforests and unique wildlife have set the country among the world's most desirable destinations.

Australia is a highly urbanized country with nearly 70% of its population living in major cities, all with their own distinct character, and Crystal Symphony has designed a top-of-the-line cruise that will deliver you to these major hubs in complete luxury. The ship is designed with an elegant, contemporary style, where rooms are framed with elegant draperies and feature plush bedding. All meals and drinks are included, and the ship proudly features extensive dining that ranges from lavish themed buffets to intimate experiences, and entertainment that includes golf, spa services and dancing lessons amid a myriad of other options. Well being is a priority aboard this Mind Body and Spirit themed cruise, where classes and speakers focus on Pilates, yoga and Tai Chi to enhance your experience.

Day 1 - Melbourne:  Dignity, grace and old world charm abound in artsy Melbourne, the capital of Victoria, where green space is coveted and the people admired. Melbourne is the most multicultural of Australian cities, where European heritage is evident in its quaint, rumbling trams and the facade of charming buildings like Flinders Street Station. Melbourne is also the cultural centre of Australia where art festivals reflect both highbrow and cutting edge sensibilities, and the stunning state library houses an enviable collection. Take time to explore handicrafts and sample delicious food at Queen Victoria Market, stroll along the picturesque Yarra River, shop the trendy vintage boutiques on Brunswick Street and then watch the sun set over St. Kilda Beach.

Day 2 - Melbourne: If you're lucky, your trip may coincide with an Aussie Rules Football game, a source of pride for the entire nation, but something most venerated in Melbourne.

Day 3 - Adelaide: A free, easy lifestyle marked by a liberal past, and wide sweeping streets embraced by brilliant greenery make Adelaide the perfect city to explore by foot. But the laid back atmosphere found in the open squares of this quaint yet well populated place is easily matched with fervent festivities that fill this city's calendar year round. Note the impressive fountains and ponds found in the Botanical Gardens, wonder at the amazing collection of visual art at Tandanya: the National Aboriginal Cultural Institute, or peruse the collections found at one of Adelaide's many museums.

Day 4 - Adelaide: Special excursions offered in Adelaide include at trip to the renowned wineries of Barossa Valley, a countryside exploration to the village of Hahndorf or a once-in-a-lifetime chance to fly in a fighter jet.

Day 5 - Cruising the Tasman Sea: As you make your way across the sea to Tasmania, take time to uncover the world-class services and amenities offered onboard the incomparable Crystal Symphony. Enrich your language skills with a complementary lesson, learn how to tickle the ivory with professional piano instruction, or sneak away to the Hollywood theatre.

Day 6 - Hobart, Tasmania: Though often jilted by mainland Aussies, the island of Tasmania is a geographically stunning place boasting uninhabited swaths of wilderness and the stunning Seven Mile Beach, replete with character and charm. Hobart sits on the foothills of Mt Wellington, where an eager sea breeze comforts visitors at roadside cafes or rushes them into the surrounding wilderness where kayaking and rugged cycling adventures await. Colourful streets and an expansive harbour proffer delicious seafood, lively pubs and a famous market that enrich the lives of yachters and adventurers alike. Visit the old warehouses and storerooms of Salamanca Market that now house artsy galleries, or sample something soothing beneath the grand gothic edifice of the Cascade Brewery.

Day 7 - Hobart: Specialty activities in Hobart include the chance to cascade the facade of Mt Wellington via mountain bike, or a lavish oysters and wine excursion. You can also stop off at Bonorong Wildlife Park to view local wildlife including the famed tassie devil.

Day 8 - Cruising the Bass Strait: Another day aboard the ship affords you plenty of time to dine in style with complimentary fine wine, relax by one of the many tranquil pools, or shop around at the signature boutiques.

Day 9 - Sydney: Due in part to its spectacular skyline that features the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Sydney is by far the most recognizable Australian city and as such has presented itself as a microcosm for all the best the country has to offer. Jet boating in the harbour and daring walks across the Harbour Bridge bring a dash of the adrenaline you'll find crawling up this country's coastline, and the Royal Botanical Gardens house many of the native plants that you won't find anywhere else on earth - if you're lucky you may find a kookaburra singing its song amid the Eucalyptus. Take a ferry to the zoo where kangaroos will lazily surround you in their habitat exhibit, or venture through the fun tourist shops that dot the spectacular Circular Quay. Check out the nightlife at Kings Cross, stroll through Darling Harbour, and venture over to the famed Bondi Beach.

Day 10 - Sydney: Despite its status as one of the world's most recognizable buildings, the Sydney Opera House offers an array of affordable performances. But if you can't snag tickets to a show, take time to sip slightly overpriced cocktails (accompanied by unrivalled views of one of the world's most beautiful harbours) at the Sydney Opera House bar. Or, if another beach excursion is on the agenda, take a picturesque ferry ride across to the lesser known Manly Beach.

Day 11 - Cruising the South Pacific Ocean: Cruising back across the stunning South Pacific, you can relax and enjoy your in-room satellite TV or listen to engaging celebrity speakers who, as part of the ship's Crystal Visions Enrichment Program, bring you lectures on world affairs.

Day 12 - Brisbane: The state capital of Queensland, Brisbane is one of Australia's most practical cities, constantly drawing new residents to its sleek cosmopolitan streets where trendy galleries and hip cafes meet a down to earth small town feel. The city is flanked by the Gold Coast to the south and the Sunshine Coast to the north, effectively combining the hedonistic yet somehow charming glitz of the former with the surf and sun soaked fun of the latter. Take this day to wander through another fabulous showcase at the Botanical Gardens, mingle with some friendly locals, or, if you haven't tried it yet, spread a healthy amount of the Aussie's signature vegemite on your morning toast.

Disembark Brisbane