Sydney to Miami

Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”. With an area that sprawls 670 square miles, Sydney is one of the largest cities in the world. But it's the exquisite Sydney Harbour that draws world-wide acclaim – that, along with its magnificent Opera House. And with nearly three days, you'll have plenty of time to go exploring.

In nearly 250 years since Captain Cook named then the Friendly Islands, little has changed. It remains the last kingdom in the South Pacific, colourful coral gardens are still untouched and the pleasure of sipping cool coconut milk fresh from the shell is as strong as it ever was.

Combine the languid allure of the tropics, big city sophistication and the spirit of Aloha, and you've discovered Oahu. Known as “The Gathering Place”, this Pacific crossroads is a tapestry of cultural diversity from Polynesian sensuality and Oriental mystique to American pragmatism. And it all blends together in one of the most harmonious gatherings in the world.

Combine the languid allure of the tropics, big city sophistication and the spirit of Aloha, and you've discovered Oahu. Known as “The Gathering Place”, this Pacific crossroads is a tapestry of cultural diversity from Polynesian sensuality and Oriental mystique to American pragmatism. And it all blends together in one of the most harmonious gatherings in the world.

The ‘Big Island’ of Hawaii is also known as the Volcano Island, as the 14,000-feet peaks of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea form a backdrop of brooding beauty. Witness the power and diversity of nature here. Hawaii is also named the Orchid Isle, thanks to the abundant flora within its rich rainforests, and the macadamia nut plantations that add their ‘flavour’ to the patchwork landscapes.

Welcome to the gateway to fame and fortune, with its endless beaches and non-stop excitement. There are wonderful restaurants, exceptional museums, fabulous stores, dazzling nightlife, unlimited recreation and sporting attractions, and a rich multiculturalism that adds international allure.

Whilst growing as a fashionable tourist destination, the Mexican resort of Cabo San Lucas still maintains its sparse and uncrowded atmosphere, and boasts a warm hospitality which matches the sunshine. Nestled on the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, Cabo is famous for its casual atmosphere, exciting nightlife, and stunning beaches and scenery.

Explore Puntarenas and see how rich this ‘Rich Coast’ really is. Maybe not in terms of its per capita wealth, but certainly in terms of its endless opulent greenery, grand views and unspoilt scenery. See the rainforest from up high, with a canopy tour through ferns, winding lianas and orchids. You can taste nature’s bounty at one of the plantations producing the country’s famously rich coffee.

Brightly coloured houses, vibrant street life, a distinct buzz in the air – all are part of the experience when you visit the Schooner Market and watch merchants sell exotic fruit and fresh fish direct from tiny boats.

The heart of modern cruising beats in Miami. So, what better place to begin or end your Southern Crossing! Consider spending an extra day at one of the area's famous beach hotels