Geraldton, Australia

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Geraldton, on Australia’s southwest coast, on the Indian Ocean.

GERALDTON, AUSTRALIA
Gateway to the Houtman Abrolhos Islands

Surrounded by sun‑drenched beaches, Geraldton in Western Australia is a thriving city facing the Indian
Ocean. Located on the Coral Coast, the city has a friendly country‑town feel while also being rich in local
history and cultural heritage. Like many coastal towns, its dining and café culture is superb, offering a
delightful dilemma for travellers when choosing where to eat.

Celebrated for its annual display of spectacular wildflowers, Geraldton’s flora attracts visitors from all
regions. Guides often take tourists on round trips of up to 300 miles (500 kilometres) to ensure they see
the very best of the bloom. A haven for visitors—especially during the cooler months—the landscapes vary
year to year depending on rainfall. Entire fields become blanketed in colour, and rare plants such as the
wreath flower burst into magnificent bloom.

Knowledgeable local guides keep track of which areas are flowering and are always ready to point visitors
in the right direction. With more than 300 species of native plants, it is no surprise that insects and birds
flourish here, too. Over 120 types of birds have been recorded, along with 22 species of reptiles and seven
species of frogs. And of course, the iconic kangaroo also calls these plains home, offering visitors a truly
authentic Aussie welcome whenever one hops into view.

SIGHTS

• Museum of Geraldton
• St Francis Xaviers Cathedral
• HMAS Sydney II Memorial
• Point Moore Lighthouse
• Yamaji Drive Trail
• Beaches
• Greenough Wildlife and Bird Park
  
• ABROLHOS ISLAND
  The Abrolhos Islands are a tropical haven of white sand and aqua waters located off Geraldton’s coastline.
  The islands are a paradise for snorkellers, divers, and fishermen and are home to exciting wildlife like the
  Australian sea lion.

Excursion – Geraldton Panorama
We explored one of the largest fishing communities in Australia during this half-day sightseeing excursion through Geraldton. It is
the largest town north of Perth and one of the most attractive coastal centres in Western Australia, with a number of outstanding
attractions.

Geraldton Sights and HMAS Sydney Memorial
We departed the pier for a sightseeing drive through Geraldton, a picturesque seaside town with a Mediterranean climate. Along the way, we learned about the history of one of Australia’s largest fishing communities and explored its local landmarks. Our first stop is at the HMAS Sydney Memorial, located on Mt. Scott. This memorial remembers Australia’s biggest naval tragedy, and the 645 men who went down with the HMAS Sydney in 1941. After decades of searching, the wreck of the ship was finally found in
March 2008 off the coast of Shark Bay.

St. Francis Xavier Cathedral
Continue with a visit to the St. Francis Xavier Cathedral and see the church’s metallic dome. Monsignor John Hawes, a parish
Priest-turned-architect designed this and many other area churches.

Museum of Geraldton
Our last stop is at the Museum of Geraldton. During our guided tour, we explored major early shipwrecks located in the region,
including the Batavia, Gilt Dragon, Zuytdorp, and Zeewijk, and the discovery of the HMAS Sydney II. The museum also features
interactive displays highlighting the local Aboriginal culture and the surrounding natural environment.

We viewed Geraldton and the surrounding area on our return to our ship.

Dinner was on Spaccanapoli Pizza on deck 11.