There’s cruising, then there’s special-themed cruises, which takes the much-loved holiday experience to a whole new level. Themed cruises are a fun and unique way to travel, and they give you the opportunity to enjoy a holiday with like-minded people who also share the same interests and hobbies as you.
If you love gardening and the delights of summer cruising, then you won’t want to miss this! Setting sail from Melbourne in February 2023, the much-loved Queen Elizabeth will be hosting its inaugural gardening voyage featuring gardening experts and well-known guest speakers, an entertainment programme with a green-fingered twist and a series of gardening-themed activities, hands-on workshops, and live demonstrations.
Read on to explore what else you can expect on this special garden-themed journey.
An incredible line-up of gardening royalty
Joining passengers on this unique seven-night voyage are nine leading gardening experts* and well-known personalities including:
- Australia’s much-loved celebrity gardener, Graham Ross,
- Acclaimed designer, best-selling author, and TV host, Jamie Durie,
- Much loved Australian TV chef and author, ‘Fast’ Ed Halmagyi, and
- Award-winning horticulturist, Angus Stewart – just to name a few!
The special guests will share their latest knowledge and garden trends over informative talks, exciting Q&As and intimate dinners. Some of the topics you can look forward to including rose gardening, small garden design tips, bee-keeping, lawn maintenance, growing native plants and how to cook from your garden – just to name a few.
Garden-themed shore excursions at three popular ports
It wouldn’t be a gardening cruise without a stopover at the popular ports of Adelaide, Hobart and Port Arthur! Guests will be able to join bespoke shore tours exploring the beautiful gardens in each city alongside other local activities and sightseeing options which can be booked for an additional fee.
In a very special experience, Angus Stewart will host a small group shore excursion from Hobart to visit Longley Organic Farm for a guided tour. Angus will take you through the ins and outs of organic farming in Tasmania. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to explore the Inverawe Native Gardens and immerse yourself in Australian fauna and flora.
Once in Port Arthur, enjoy a scenic stroll through Port Arthur Lavender Farm. Immerse yourself in the wonderful, natural fragrances of 18 acres of lavender fields, overlooking Long Bay.
An entertainment programme for all gardening enthusiasts
Alongside Queen Elizabeth’s signature events such as the dazzling Gala Nights and sparkling evening performances, the Gardening Journey will put a green twist on the renowned entertainment programme.
From hands-on make-and-take craft and gardening workshops to garden-themed trivia and cooking demonstrations, there’s always something to do onboard!
Sail the seas in Queen Elizabeth’s iconic art-deco elegance
What makes this themed cruise even more special is that you will be sailing in style aboard the one and only Queen Elizabeth. From the very first moment you step onboard and into the three-deck-high lobby with its grand staircase, you’ll be amazed by Queen Elizabeth’s grace and art deco elegance. All fixtures, finishes and details are thoughtfully designed for an especially refined feel.
And if that’s not enough to make you fall in love with this grand lady of the sea, then perhaps an indulgent hour of Afternoon Tea served by white-gloved waiters will.
Every afternoon at 3:30 pm, white-gloved waiters serve Afternoon Tea in the Queen’s Room where you can indulge in delicious cucumber sandwiches, delectable scones and fresh pastries while sipping on a warm cup of Twinings.
If you’re looking for the ultimate royal experience, stay in a Queens Grill Suite. Not only do these rooms come with extra luxuries such as velour robes and slippers and champagne and chocolates on arrival, but you’ll also have your own personal butler and concierge to cater to all your cruising needs. You’ll also enjoy priority embarkation and disembarkation for that extra first-class experience.
Read more: See Australia in art-deco elegance: a peek inside Queen Elizabeth
Secure your cabin today
Cruise like royalty on Queen Elizabeth and meet fellow gardening enthusiasts on this exciting seven-night cruise departing from Melbourne on 4 February 2023. Secure your preferred cabin today.
*Guest speakers are confirmed to date, but may change at Cunard’s discretion due to unforeseen circumstances
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