Auckland to Sydney Mardi Gras Cruise

Auckland to Sydney Cruise Sail into Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras next year with the first all-gay cruise from New Zealand to Australia. Atlantis charters the 1400-guest Volendam for a spectacular history-making adventure, custom designed for an all-gay cruise. From the awe-inspiring natural wonders of New Zealand to the cosmopolitan charm of Melbourne, there’s no better way to see more of these two great nations. All culminating with a dramatic arrival into Sydney for an overnight celebration during the finale of Mardi Gras! You’ve asked for it for years, and Atlantis is proud to sail the exquisite 5-star Volendam from Auckland to Sydney for our first gay cruise sailing into Australia. Discover amazing scenic wonders, sophisticated cities, and friendly cultures as we sail for 11 magical days. Onboard you’ll find the most diverse entertainment Atlantis has ever offered, bringing together the best of the USA and Australia for an unforgettable experience both onboard and ashore. This unique cruise will go on sale to Atlantis past guests with the following Alumni status as follows:   Date: Status:   February 18 Alumni traveled 10 or more vacations   February 20 Alumni traveled 4 or more vacations   February 23 All alumni   February 26 General public   Sales to the general public begin on February 26. We are holding a select block of rooms for guests from Australia until April 1, 2009. Natural Wonders and Brilliant Distractions Your adventure begins in the harbour city of Auckland, a remarkable and friendly city with the largest gay population in New Zealand. We’ll cruise past scenic volcanic White Island on our way to the capital city of Wellington, newly famous for the many film shoots in its spectacular countryside. The spectacular vistas of Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, bring you in touch with the most “English” city outside England set against a dramatic mountain backdrop. In Dunedin you’ll discover ancient castles along with wildlife and kayaking adventures. After two exciting days at sea crossing the Tasman, we arrive in the cosmopolitan and diverse city of Melbourne. Our overnight stay there let’s you make the most of this vibrant city’s Victorian buildings, serene parks, magnificent art scene, and outstanding dining & nightlife. We then head north to Sydney where we’ll be docked for 2 days at Circular Quay in the heart of the city. Sailing Into The World’s Largest Gay Event Our first cruise to Australia had to be grand, so we’ve worked closely with Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras to perfectly coordinate our schedules. We’ll arrive in Sydney the same day as the famous Mardi Gras Parade and Party, disembarking late on Sunday to allow you time to truly experience the world’s largest gay and lesbian celebration. We’ll update our plans for Mardi Gras more completely in mid-2009, but Atlantis will offer priority access to all the major events during our weekend stay. For complete details on Sydney Mardi Gras, visit their website at mardigras.org.au. Days That Shine Whether it’s an Atlantis day at sea or you’re returning from a day of adventure, there’s always plenty to do onboard the Volendam. Relax by one of our two stunning pools, take in a cooking class in the culinary center, or pamper yourself in the expansive spa. Stay in shape at our fully equipped fitness center, jogging track, and many classes. Drag yourself out to Bingo with Miss Richfield. Or learn something new with an enrichment lecture or an iPod tour of the ship’s extensive art collection. Dining as Beautiful as the Scenery The dramatic two-story restaurant offers soaring views of the ocean and Holland America’s award-winning cuisine. Attentive yet unobtrusive service makes dining an event to savor. As on all Atlantis cruises, we feature open seating and a casual atmosphere with no dress code. There’s never an assigned table or dining time, allowing you to dine at your leisure with friends old and new. For a special occasion, make a date at Pinnacle Grill for one of the most elegant meals at sea, featuring premium beef and fresh seafood. An exciting taste of Asia awaits you in Tamarind, a fusion restaurant with incredible views of the ocean and a rich, intimate setting. If you’re looking for something casual, the Lido Grill features offers buffet selections, pizza, and late-night snacks, virtually 24 hours a day. Start your day with an espresso with fresh-baked croissants at the Explorers Cafe. Or stay in and relax with complimentary 24-hour room service. Two Continents of Entertainment We’ll showcase leading gay and lesbian entertainers from the USA and Australia, featuring comedians, singers, drag performers, variety acts, and more. Our 800 seat theater hosts spectacular productions, Atlantis main stage shows, and most likely a surprise guest star. Joan Rivers, Patti LuPone, Rosie O’Donnell, Blondie, Chita Rivera, Deborah Cox, Jennifer Hudson, and many others have joined us in the past. Who knows who will show up this year! Our intimate cabaret lounges feature up-and-coming entertainers, unique specialty acts, and some outrageous fun in ways you never imagined. Enjoy Atlantis signature piano bar talent in a relaxing setting, meet a friend in one of our many bars, or try your luck in the casino. Every night offers a new adventure. We’ll transform the upper pool deck into the most spectacular parties in any continent, featuring top DJ talent from around the world. Our themed afternoon t-dances are legendary fun, and nothing compares to dancing outdoors under the stars as we sail across the South Pacific.   We invite you to make history as 1400 gay and lesbian guests from around the world gather for this extraordinary experience. Don’t delay as demand for this program is some of the highest we’ve ever seen.

With 1.3 million residents, Auckland is not only the largest city in New Zealand, it has the largest Polynesian population of any city in the world. Also known as the “City of Sails,” Auckland also has more yachts per capita than any other city in the world, with an active social life centered around its beautiful harbor and adjoining marinas. Among its many attractiona, don’t miss the Sky Tower, completed in 1997, and at 328 meters, is the tallest free-standing structure in the Southern Hemisphere.       Enjoy a close up view of one of the world’s most active marine volcanoes, first discovered by Captain Cook in 1769, who only saw a cloud of white steam, hence its name. Rising 1600 meters from the sea floors, its eruptions produce both lava flows and explosive columns of ash, attracting both scientists and tourists to its location in the Bay of Plenty.       New Zealand’s political center, housing Parliament, all Government Ministries and Departments, as well all foreign diplomatic missions in New Zealand, Wellington supports an arts, culture, and nightlife scene much larger than most other cities its size. Wellington is also center of the nation’s film making industry, serving as the jumping off point for all films made in New Zealand, including the most recent Lord of the Rings trilogy.       The largest city of New Zealand’s South Island and the second largest city in the country, Christchurch’s location has earned its name as the Gateway to the Antarctic. Not only have historic explorers like Earnest Shackleton used Christchurch and its port of Lyttelton as a departure point for their expeditions, it serves as the major base for many of the world’s Antarctic programs, using Christchurch’s airport as the main supply station for their Antarctic bases. Be sure to visit the International Antarctic Center for a behind the scenes look at Antarctic exploration and research.       The farthest city in the world from both London and Berlin, Dunedin is New Zealand’s oldest city, first settled by Maori settlers over 4 four centuries ago. A 19th century gold rush made Dunedin the country’s largest city and its industrial and commercial heart for a period. That period of prosperity brought Dunedin magnificently ornate Victorian and Edwardian architecture, for which the city is still known today.       The second most populous city in Australia, Melbourne is the country’s sporting and cultural capital. With a large and booming live music scene, other cultural attractions, temperate year-round climate, low crime rates, and generous health care system, Melbourne has topped The Economist’s list of World’s Most Livable Cities three times in the last 10 years.       The Harbour City has earned its place as one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities with its warm welcome to the world in the 2000 Olympics. One of the world’ most multicultural cities, its residents are known for their warmth in sharing their city, from the natural beauty of Bondi beach, to the man-made marvels of the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and the world-famous Taronga Zoo.   Date   Port (click for details)   Arrive   Depart     17 February   Auckland, New Zealand     4 PM   18 February   Scenic cruising White Island   10 AM   12 PM   19 February   Wellington, New Zealand   3 PM   10 PM   20 February   Lyttelton (Christchurch), New Zealand   8 AM   8 PM   21 February   Port Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand   8 AM   5 PM   22 February   At Sea         23 February   At Sea         24 February   Melbourne, Victoria, Australia   2 PM   overnight   25 February Melbourne, Victoria, Australia     3 PM   26 February At Sea         27 February Sydney, New South Wales, Australia   8 AM overnight   28 February Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 12 PM     Disembarkation begins at approximately 12 PM.

Category Click for photo & layout

Description

Rate (US $) *Room share available

Status

	Suites
	PS-Penthouse Verandah Suite		(1,159 sq. ft. with verandah) Bedroom with 1 king-size bed, oversize whirlpool bath & shower, living room, dining room, dressing room, private verandah, pantry, 1 sofa bed for 2 persons, mini-bar, refrigerator, guest toilet, floor-to-ceiling windows. Deck 7		9999
	S-Deluxe Verandah Suite		(556 sq. ft. with verandah) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 king-size bed, whirlpool bath & shower, large sitting area, dressing room, private verandah, 1 sofa bed for 2 persons, mini-bar, refrigerator, floor-to-ceiling windows. Deck 7		5999
	Balcony Staterooms
	A-Verandah Stateroom		(249 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows. Deck 7		3399
	AA-Verandah Stateroom		(249 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows. Deck 7, Deck 6		3299
	B-Verandah Stateroom		(249 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows. Deck 6		3099
	BB-Verandah Stateroom		(249 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows. Deck 6		2999*
	BC-Verandah Stateroom		(249 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows. Deck 6		2899
	Ocean View Staterooms
	C-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. Deck 6, Deck 3		2399
	D-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. Deck 2, Deck 3, Deck 6		2349*
	DA-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. Deck 2		2299
	DD-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. Partial sea view. Deck 3		2249
	E-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. Deck 2, Deck 1		2199
	EE-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. Deck 1		2149
	F-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. Deck 1		2099
	FF-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. Deck 1		2049
	G-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. May have porthole instead of window. Deck 2		2019
	H-Large Oceanview Stateroom		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. May have porthole instead of window. Deck 1		1999
	HH-Large Oceanview Stateroom/Obstructed		(197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower. Fully obstructed views Deck 3		1949
	Interior Staterooms
	I-Inside Stateroom		(182 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower. Deck 7, Deck 6		1849
	J-Inside Stateroom		(182 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower. Deck 3		1819*
	K-Inside Stateroom		(182 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower. Deck 3, Deck 2		1799
	L-Inside Stateroom		(182 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower. Plus 1 sofa bed & pullman upper. Deck 3, Deck 2		1749
	M-Inside Stateroom		(182 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower. Plus 1 sofa bed. Deck 1		1699
	MM-Inside Stateroom		(182 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower. Plus 1 sofa bed Deck 1		1649
	N-Inside Stateroom		(182 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower. Plus 1 sofa bed & pullman upper. Deck 1		1629
	NN-Inside Stateroom		(182 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower. Plus 1 sofa bed & pullman upper. Deck 1		1599
	Additional Guest		3rd or 4th person in room		1399

Port fees of $280 are additional per person. All guests will be charged Holland America’s standard service charge of $11 per day per person to their onboard accounts, with a minimum charge of $22 per day per stateroom. All rates are per person based on double occupancy. All staterooms have private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, television, safe, and phone. Stateroom and balcony sizes are approximate. Share category available for single travelers on a smoking/non-smoking basis. All reservations are subject to Atlantis Cancellation/Refund Policy and Terms and Conditions.

As you enter the magnificent Volendam, an elegant sculpture by Luciano Vistosi, inspired by the myriad of moods and colors of a kaleidoscope, greets you in a soaring three-story atrium. Elegant, but never stuffy, the Volendam offers a sophisticated charm combined with a lively modern ambiance. The beautiful garden theme of the ms Volendam is reflected in an artful floral motif throughout the ship's spacious public rooms and elegant staterooms. "Flowers" can be found in abundance in the forms of floral fabrics and tapestries, as well as huge vases of tropical floral arrangements and chrysanthemums. In addition to fresh flowers throughout the ship, Holland America Line has drawn on its collection of incredible artwork to enhance the interior of the ship's public spaces. Everything from pre-Columbian fetishes and sculptures to Renaissance-era fountains imported from Italy are included in its hallway galleries. Outstanding and Flexible Dining Choices The Volendam offers an outstanding selection of delicious dining options, in many styles. As with all Atlantis cruises, there is never an assigned table, dress code, or dining time – you’re always free to dine when and wherever you like. Please not that the Pinnacle Grill restaurant requires reservations and has an extra charge. Rotterdam Dining Room: An impressive 2-story classic restaurant, starring impeccable service and an extensive wine list. Five-course menus include continental cuisine, vegetarian and low-carb options. Pinnacle Grill: This intimate reservations-only venue offers an elegant, sophisticated dining experience. Featuring premium Sterling Silver beef, inspired seafood dishes and many select wines rated "Excellent" by Wine Spectator - as well as distinctive Bvlgari® china, Riedel® stemware and Frette® linens. The Pinnacle Bar offers the perfect place to meeet friends over a glass of premium wine Lido Restaurant: Our casual buffet is open virtually round-the-clock, with a modern, relaxed ambiance and features a variety of fresh, cooked-to-order specialties. Explorations Café, powered by The New York Times: A comfortable, coffee house environment where you can browse through an extensive library, surf the Internet and check email or simply read the morning paper. Unique Places to Relax Whether you want to enjoy some private time outdoors or spend the week in the spa, the Volendam offers wonderful choices for total pampering and relaxation. Main Pool: The striking and modern main pool features plenty of space to relax, swim, and play, with comfortable chairs and loungers everywhere you turn. There’s even a full “magradome” roof that can be closed to create an indoor pool space. At night Atlantis will use this space for our legendary outdoor parties, possibly with the roof closed or partly closed. We know it’ll look fantastic both day and night! Lido Pool: A relaxing outdoor pool on the back of the ship, perfect for sunning, relaxing, and taking in the spectacular sights as we sail. Greenhouse Spa & Salon: Features heavenly beauty and wellness rituals. Enjoy a facial, hot stone massage, steam in a thermal suite and have your hair and nails done for a special evening. Entertainment and Enrichment Venues A wide variety of exciting venues await, each with it’s own personality and with customized entertainment and offerings designed just for Atlantis. The Culinary Arts Center, presented by Food & Wine Magazine: Our state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen offering interactive gourmet cooking lessons taught by our own Master Chefs or culinary guests Frans Hals Show Lounge: Our two-story theater seats 800 guests and is the focal point of any Atlantis cruise. Featuring our signature entertainers, HAL’s spectacular production shows, variety acts, and maybe a special surprise guest or two. Crow's Nest: A stunning space on the top deck, with sweeping 270° views during the day, turning into an exciting entertainment venue each evening, and an after-hours disco late at night. Piano Bar: The perfect place to meet friends and enjoy some of Atlantis’ legendary piano and cabaret entertainers in a relaxed, comfortable setting. Casino: More Monte Carlo than Vegas, this sophisticated casino is the perfect place to try your luck.

PS-Penthouse Verandah Suite (1,159 sq. ft. with verandah) Bedroom with 1 king-size bed, oversize whirlpool bath & shower, living room, dining room, dressing room, private verandah, pantry, 1 sofa bed for 2 persons, mini-bar, refrigerator, guest toilet, floor-to-ceiling windows.       S-Deluxe Verandah Suite (556 sq. ft. with verandah) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 king-size bed, whirlpool bath & shower, large sitting area, dressing room, private verandah, 1 sofa bed for 2 persons, mini-bar, refrigerator, floor-to-ceiling windows.       A-Verandah Stateroom (249 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower, sitting area, private verandah, floor-to-ceiling windows.       D-Large Oceanview Stateroom (197 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bathtub & shower.       J-Inside Stateroom (182 sq. ft. ) 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, shower.       Atrium     Dining Room     Show Lounge     Crows Nest     Fitness Center     Odyssey Dining Room     Occupancy: 1432 Crew Members: 588 Tonnage: 61,396 grt Length: 780 feet   Beam: 105.8 feet Maximum Speed: 23.9 knots Ship Registry: The Netherlands   Spacious and Modern Staterooms When you do finally return to your stateroom, you’ll enjoy a quiet, elegant retreat, with rooms larger than the most in the industry. Most offer a private verandah and feature the most modern staterooms amenities including televisions, large bathrooms, and all the comforts of home. Our luxurious suites offer in-room whirlpools, spacious rooms with sitting areas, access to the private Neptune Lounge, and much more. And should you need anything, our pampering staff is just a phone call away. Let Holland America’s legendary service staff take care of your every need. On board Holland America’s Volendam you'll discover a cruise experience that is modern, fresh and appealing - in an ambiance that is timeless and refined.