THE Phillip Island Cruise Season is in full swing with the latest arrival, the Holland America Line 82,897 tonne ship, Noordam, sailing into Western Port at 9pm on Wednesday, January 10.
The ship anchored between Silverleaves and Rhyll and a significant number of the 1918 crew and some of the 800 crew came onshore via the ships passenger tenders to the Rhyll jetty.
While arriving they may have seen some unanticipated drama at the Rhyll Boat Ramp where a submerged car and trailer was being salvaged as the passengers arrived onshore to be picked up by buses and taxi for their day on Phillip Island, highlighted by a visit to the world famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade at dusk before steaming away at 11pm.
The Noordam is a middle-sized cruise ship at a length of 936 feet long and 105.8 feet wide.
Built in 2006 and flying the Netherlands’ flag, the Noordam was named for the northern compass point. The Noordam reportedly dazzles with museum-quality art and lavish staterooms. Guests of this Vista Class ship have their pick of onboard activities; sing along to your favorite hits at the Billboard Onboard bar, enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Centre or savour the delights of one of several specialty restaurants. The Pinnacle Grill serves the juiciest steak at sea and Canaletto beckons with tantalizing Italian dishes.
The 2024 cruising schedule at Phillip Island is as follows:
- 9 January Seabourne Odyssey, 458 passengers, 335 crew
- 11 January Noordam, 1918 passengers, 800 crew
- 19 January Regatta, 684 passengers, 400 crew
- 28 January Grand Princess, 2590 passengers, 1100 crew
- 11 February Viking Sky, 930 passengers, 550 crew
- 14 February Viking Neptune, 928 passengers, 465 crew
- 17 February Seabourne Odyssey, 458 passengers, 335 crew
- 27 April Pacific Adventure, 2636 passengers, 1100 crew.
- 9 January Seabourne Odyssey, 458 passengers, 335 crew.
