Book Now to Enjoy the Biggest Naval Event on Sydney Harbour this Century

The biggest naval event on Sydney Harbour this century will take place from October 3-11, 2013 and Sydneysiders, regional NSW residents and interstate visitors are advised to book accommodation early to avoid missing out.

The Royal Australian Navy is celebrating 100 years since the first RAN ships sailed into Sydney Harbour to great fanfare in 1913 – and it has asked 50 nations to join the party. Called the International Fleet Review (IFR), the celebrations will see 40 warships and 20 tall ships from around the world sail into Sydney Harbour for a week-long celebration.

Commencing on Thursday 3 October 2013 and concluding eight days later, the IFR will be a harbour spectacular no Australian will want to miss. Her Excellency the Governor-General, Quentin Bryce will welcome the fleet from Bradley’s Head on October 4, and officially review the fleet onboard HMAS Leeuwin on October 5 as part of the Ceremonial Fleet Review.

With the world heritage backdrop of Sydney Harbour setting the scene, the Royal Australian Navy band will perform while fixed and rotary wing aircraft fly past in formation overhead. Military demonstrations will be held, the official ceremony will be staged on the steps of the Opera House, and the event will conclude with a fireworks display fit for the occasion.

Other activities being planned include a combined naval march through the Sydney CBD, ships open to the public, inter-navy sporting competitions and a range of community and cultural events.

Whether you’re a navy buff or just keen not to miss the amazing pageantry of this historic event, now is the time to book your accommodation in Sydney to be sure you make the most of the week-long celebrations – and Metro Hotels has a number of properties from which to choose.

Metro Hotel Sydney Central is the group’s flagship property located on the corner of Pitt and Hay Streets in the heart of Sydney’s entertainment precinct. Having recently completed a two year refurbishment, the hotel now offers 220 fully-refurbished Superior and Deluxe rooms, all priced affordably.

Metro Hotel on Pitt is a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, within easy walking distance of Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, The Rocks, Pitt Street Mall, Queen Victoria Building, Hyde Park and Chinatown, while Metro Apartments Darling Harbour provides easy access to the popular harbour restaurant precinct of King Street Wharf and Cockle Bay, as well as IMAX, Sydney Aquarium, Wildlife World and Australian Maritime Museum and Star Casino.

For those looking for something a little quieter and out of the hustle and bustle of the city centre, Aspire Hotel Sydney in Ultimo is just a short stroll to Darling Harbour, the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre and Sydney Entertainment Centre.

International Fleet Review - Sydney Australia 3-11 October 2013

Don't Miss the Nation's Most Significant Commemorative Naval Event in the Past 100 Years

International Fleet Review - Sydney 2013

- See more at: http://cruisesydney.blogspot.com.au/2013/08/international-fleet-review-sydney.html#sthash.3IJnz6No.dpuf

White Bay Cruise Terminal

White Bay Cruise Terminal

ADDRESS: White Bay Cruise Terminal Access via James Craig Road, Rozelle

GETTING THERE: Entry to the terminal is off James Craig Road, Rozelle.

Passenger set down and pick up is available in the terminal precinct and short-term parking for those passengers with a valid itinerary is available on-site.

The nearest public bus stop for passengers is located on Robert Street (as shown on map).

ARRIVING AND DEPARTING

Arriving passengers will need to reclaim their luggage and then clear customs and immigration before exiting the terminal. Once you have exited the terminal there is a designated pick up bay for private vehicles and access to short-term car parking that will assist you in exiting the precinct or you can catch a taxi at the on-site taxi rank. A public bus stop is accessible from Robert Street.

Departing passengers should refer to their itinerary regarding what time they need to be present at the terminal for check-in as times do vary.

Bag drop facilities are available for the majority of ships from 9.00am. Check with your booking agent if you need to utilise this facility.

The terminal is open to those people farewelling travelling passengers.

TERMINAL FACILITIES - Terminal facilities include:

1.Toilets

2.A food and beverage kiosk

3.Wheelchair access

4.On-site short-term parking.

5.Public payphones

6.ATM

There is no foreign exchange or post office on-site and passengers should also be aware that there is no Duty Free available for purchase in the terminal.

 All further queries regarding your trip should be directed to your booking agent.

CUSTOMS AND IMMIGRATION

International cruise voyage – all passengers departing on an international cruise voyage need to complete an outbound passenger card as well as a health card questionnaire. Both documents will be made available to you once inside the terminal.

Domestic cruise voyage – all passengers departing on a domestic cruise voyage need to complete a health questionnaire card which will be made available to you once inside the terminal. There is no requirement to complete an outbound passenger card.

TOURIST REFUND SCHEME (TRS)

A TRS desk is available in both terminals on international cruises. TRS enables you to claim a refund for the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) that you paid on goods you have purchased in Australia. You can claim the TRS from Customs at embarkation after you have checked in.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

Both the Overseas Passenger Terminal and the White Bay Cruise Terminal have wheelchair accessibility to the terminal and to the ship.

THINGS TO BRING

1. International Cruise – individual passport with a validity of at least six months.

2. Domestic Cruise – Government agency issued Photo ID.

3. Your booking itinerary is required for all cruises.

4. If you take regular medication ensure that you have sufficient supplies to last the length of your holiday. It is also wise to consider taking a couple of days extra supply in case of unforeseen changes in your plans.

WHAT NOT TO BRING

You are NOT permitted to bring any alcohol onboard for personal consumption.

Duty-free, tax-free and personal alcohol purchased onshore must be surrendered by passengers at embarkation or prior to boarding at any port.

USEFUL LINKS

NSW Transport Information http://www.131500.com.au/

Destination NSW http://www.visitnsw.com/ Metro Apartments Darling Harbour

http://www.metrohotels.com.au/doc/metro-apartments-darling-harbour-factsheet.pdf

Put in the CRUISE code word and Get 10% off the Best Available Rate - See more at: http://cruisesydney.blogspot.com.au/2013/08/white-bay-cruise-terminal.html#sthash.s88afNkB.dpuf

Carnival Legend 2014 Sydney Arrival To Be ... Legendary

Carnival Legend

Carnival Legend, Carnival Spirit’s sister ship will be arriving in Sydney next year from the East Coast of the USA, with described by Carnival as custom built to create history making holidays, and paying tribute to some of the world’s greatest legends throughout the ages.

Carnival says that guest can take a dip in the Camelot and Avalon pools, wish for magic at Club Merlin Casino and taste iconic flavours at Truffles Restaurant, while music lovers can head for Satchmo’s Lounge and Billie’s Piano Bar, then dance the night away at Medusa’s Lair Dance Club.

Onboard features include a wide range of bars, dining choices and a variety of fun outdoor activities including the iconic Water Park and Green Thunder Waterslide, as well as indoor and relaxation options and exciting entertainment. 

Carnival Legend will sail from the East Coast of America mid-August 2014 arriving in Sydney on 22 September 2014, with itineraries on offer including a 13 day cruise from Tampa to Los Angeles sailing through the Panama Canal, Costa Rica and Mexico departing on 17 August 2014 and a 23 day cruise from Los Angeles to Sydney sailing through Tahiti, Fiji and Noumea departing on 30 August 2014.

Travel the World is also offering Carnival Legend guests the opportunity to combine the two itineraries for a legendary 36 day cruise experience sailing from Tampa to Sydney through Mexico, Tahiti, Fiji and Noumea.

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Congratulations To Kate Middleton & Prince William

It's a BOY!

Congratulations to the Prince William and Kate, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on their new arrival. The Duchess and her husband gave the world the first glimpses of the future King of England this morning as Kate and William emerged with their baby Prince (the third in line to the throne) from Mary's Hospital's Lindo Wing.

When asked who the baby looks like, William said, "He's got her looks thankfully." To which Kate gushed, "No, no, no."

William added: "He's a big boy, he's quite heavy" and laughed when a reporter asked him about the baby's hair.

"He's got way more than me, thank God," he said.

International Fleet Review 2013

In late 2011, the Chief of Navy (CN) - Vice Admiral Ray Griggs, AO, CSC, RAN extended an invitation to over 50 nations to send a warship and/or tall ship to participate in an International Fleet Review (IFR) to be held in Sydney from 3 - 11 October 2013. The Review is being held to commemorate the centenary of the first entry of the Royal Australian Navy's Fleet into Sydney. On 4 October 1913 the flagship, HMAS Australia, led the new Australian Fleet Unit comprising HMA Ships Melbourne, Sydney, Encounter, Warrego, Parramatta and Yarra into Sydney Harbour for the first time to be greeted by thousands of cheering citizens lining the foreshore. This was a moment of great national pride and importance, one recognised as a key indicator of Australia's progress towards national maturity.

The IFR is a high profile international event and Navy's signature commemorative event for 2013. Planned in partnership with the NSW State Government and the City of Sydney, it is anticipated that approximately 40 visiting warships and 12 tall ships will participate in this historic event. The RAN Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Congress and Exposition are also scheduled to take place at Darling Harbour from 7 October 2013 to coincide with the IFR.

The current plan will see RAN and visiting warships rendezvousing in Jervis Bay, NSW by 2 October 2013 to conduct final preparations and briefings. The formal aspects of the IFR will commence with all tall ships entering Sydney Harbour on Thursday 3 October 2013 and all warships entering on Friday 4 October 2013 - exactly 100 years after the first RAN Fleet entry.

More event information is available on the International Fleet Review 2013 web pages.

• Date: 3 October 2013 to 11 October 2013
• Time: Refer to the Schedule of Events below
• Where: Various locations around Sydney, NSW
• Cost: Free

 

Schedule of Events

Note: The following program is subject to change.

3 October 2013

• Warships depart for passage to Sydney.
• Tall ships entry. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• Australian Surf Rowers League (ASRL) "Team Navy ASRL Flotilla". Location: Sydney Harbour.

4 October 2013

• Fleet entry. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• Flypast by rotary and fixed winged aircraft. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• Australian Surf Rowers League luncheon. Location: Sydney Opera House.

5 October 2013

• Dress ship. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
• Ceremonial Fleet Review. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• Formation flypast by rotary and fixed winged aircraft. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• Military demonstrations.
• Pyrotechnics and Lightshow. Location: Sydney Harbour.

6 October 2013

• Ships Open Day. Location: Fleet Base East, Garden Island/Barangaroo.
• Interfaith Religious Service. Location: St Mary's Cathedral.

7 October 2013

• Opening of Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific Maritime Trade Show (Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition). Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
• Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
• Combined Navies Band concert (to be confirmed).
• Ships Open Day. Location: Fleet Base East, Garden Island/Barangaroo.

8 October 2013

• Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition continue. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
• Royal Australian Navy Band recitals.
• Memorial Service. Location: Cenotaph, Martin Place.

9 October 2013

• Sea Power Conference 2013 and Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition continue. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
• Combined Navies Parade. Location: George Street - The Rocks to Town Hall.
• Food Festival/BBQ for parade participants. Location: Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour.
• Sea Power Conference 2013. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.
• Twilight sailing with RAN Sailing Association. Location: Sydney Harbour.
• Closing of Pacific 2013 International Maritime Exposition. Location: Sydney Conference and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour.

10 October 2013

• Tall ships depart. Location: Sydney Harbour.

11 October 2013

• Warships depart. Location: Sydney Harbour.

Need affordable and comfortable accommodation close the fleet locations in Sydney?

Metro Hotels offer comfortable hotel rooms and apartments around Sydney city that will keep you close these venues and major public transport hubs. So whether you're coming from interstate to Sydney or coming from overseas, we've got you covered!

• Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour (close walk to Sydney Harbour and Exhibition Centre)
• Metro Hotel Sydney Central (close walk or bus/taxi ride to Sydney Harbour and Exhibition Centre)
• Metro Hotel on Pitt (close train/bus or taxi ride to Sydney Harbour and Exhibition Centre)
• Aspire Hotel Sydney Ultimo (close train/bus or taxi ride to Sydney Harbour and Exhibition Centre)

Each hotel or serviced apartment is close to major train stations, buses or ferries. Because all four are situated in the city, there are plenty of taxis available to catch on the street. Many of the fleet locations can be reached by foot from our hotels. Nearby there are also supermarkets, shops, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs, medical centres and public toilets all within walking distance.


Want discounts on your stay at Metro Hotels around Sydney? Here are some specials:

Start Of Financial Year Special @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour
Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour are offering this Start of Financial Year Special for $220.00* per night (minimum 3 night stay) including:

• Guaranteed free upgrade to Executive 
• 3 Night Minimum stay is required
• Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/314

Winter Sydney Great Saver @ Metro Hotel Sydney Central
Metro Hotel is offering this Winter Sydney - Great Saver package for $129.00 per room per night including:

• Free wireless internet 
• Free Breakfast for 2 adult 
• Free bottle of wine on arrival 
• Free late check out by 12 noon (Subject to availability).
• Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/307

Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package @ Metro on Pitt
Metro Hotel on Pitt is offering this Bed and Breakfast PLUS Package including:

• One Nights Accommodation
• Hot Buffet Breakfast for two
• Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/217

Park and Stay Special at Aspire Hotel Sydney @ Aspire Hotel
Aspire Hotel Sydney is offering this Park and Stay Special:

• Book for 3 nights accommodation at Aspire Hotel Sydney and get free parking
• Details and To Book: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/106

Princess Package @ Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour

Pamper yourself like a true Princess. Enjoy your complimentary wine and chocolates upon your arrival to your one Bedroom Executive Apartment. With stunning views of Darling Harbour, and see where Princess Mary met here Prince , with the Floor to Ceiling cathedral windows, brand new kitchen and a midday checkout

$229.00* Sunday - Thursday, $349.00* Friday - Saturday

Book here: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/special/58

Location: 132-136 Sussex St Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia

Phone: +61 2 9290 9200

Offer expires 31 May 2013!

Terms and Conditions:

• Subject to availability
• Offer valid until 31st May 2013
• Rates are based on 2 adult occupants
• Minimum 2 night stay is required
• Booking is non-refundable 

Located in the Sydney Central Business District (CBD), Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour has 26 spacious guest apartments.

Our 3 ½ star fully serviced one bedroom loft-style apartments provide you with many of the creature comforts of home. The well equipped kitchen and laundry facilities in your room are ideal for longer stays and provide you with plenty of room to relax and enjoy your stay. Each of the well appointed rooms also has a LCD television with 28 free Foxtel channels, telephone, free WiFi, ensuite bathroom and small balcony.

It's all about the views! Imagine standing on your own private balcony with a relaxing drink and watching the sun set over Darling Harbour. Well that's exactly how you could enjoy the end to another day when you next stay with us in one of our Executive Apartments located on levels 4-7.

Located perfectly in the heart of the city, Metro Apartments Darling Harbour is within easy access of all major attractions such as, the Sydney Aquarium, IMAX Theatre, Cockle Bay Restaurants, Maritime Museum, Chinatown - restaurants and taverns, Sydney Entertainment Centre, Powerhouse Museum and the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.