From grizzlies to desert glitz

Brought to you by My Cruises.

Imagine a cruise that begins with the experience of coming face to face with a Canadian grizzly bear and ends with walking the famous Strip in one of the world's most famous cities, a glittering oasis rising out of Nevada's Mojave Desert.

On this magical adventure you'll try not to lose your heart in San Francisco, immerse yourself in the coastal cool of San Diego and laze on the golden sands of some of Mexico's most stunning beaches at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula.

The California Coast and Vegas Exploration package from Explorations by Norwegian, is an 18-night all-inclusive fly, stay and explore cruise holiday that takes you from Canada, to the US and Mexico, stopping in to some of the most iconic destinations along the Pacific Coast. Here are the unforgettable places you'll visit:

Spend the morning hiking through mountains and the evening soaking in the city lights of Vancouver. Maybe explore Gastown, wander through Stanley Park and grab a beer and bite to eat at Granville Island. If you're a nature lover you'll want to take in the forest scenery at Capilano Suspension Bridge, as well as spot grizzly bears at Grouse Mountain. You'll have two nights to explore the city and its surrounds before embarking on Explorations by Norwegian's ship, Regatta.

Seattle sits on the strip of land between Puget Sound and Lake Washington, with the Olympic and Cascade Mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop for this cosmopolitan city. Soar up the futuristic Space Needle and experience the views atop this stunning landmark created for the 1962 World's Fair.

Tucked into Oregon's northwestern tip, this charming town is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies and offers a unique blend of Pacific beauty and old-world Americana. Spend your day museum hopping, admiring the views, or head to a local pub for a beer and some of the freshest fish and chips you've ever eaten.

The Pacific Ocean is at the heart of your journey. On day six spend one of several days at sea, the chance to breathe the fresh, salty air and take full advantage of everything the Regatta offers. Sea days mean you can sit back and watch the world float by. Or peruse the vessel's daily newsletter to find out all the activities available. Find a quiet moment in the library or on a luxurious daybed to enjoy the ocean breeze. As the sun sets, unwind with a cool cocktail, take in a theatre-style show, and have a nightcap at a stylish bar before wandering back to your stateroom. An all-inclusive onboard dining and beverage package is included and there's a delicious array of food and drinks to savour.

Get those flowers ready for your hair to explore the famous city of San Francisco. This vibrant and diverse city is full of character with plenty to uncover. Cross the Golden Gate Bridge, discover picturesque neighbourhoods via cable car, eat your way through the largest Chinatown outside Asia and tour the infamous Alcatraz prison. You'll enjoy an onboard overnight stay so you can take in everything this magical city has to offer after the sun goes down as well.

With its laid-back beach-city vibe, San Diego has been called one of America's coolest cities. It's home to the immense Balboa Park and the renowned San Diego Zoo, as well as numerous art galleries, artist studios, museums, gardens and fascinating neighbourhoods. The place where Top Gun was filmed, its deep harbour hosts a large active naval fleet, with the USS Midway, an aircraft-carrier-turned-museum, open to the public.

Day 13 is your chance to say hola to Mexico and this lively resort town. Cabo San Lucas is famed for its pristine beaches, colourful coral reefs and sportfishing. While on your Cabo cruise, laze on the golden sand of Lover's Beach, spot sea lions at the impressive El Arco, or try some traditional Mexican dishes and shop for handicrafts at local markets.

Handpicked for Explorations by Norwegian, Regatta is a newly refined and sophisticated small ship that delivers close-up cruising at its best. The 348-room vessel with an occupancy of just 670 passengers, is designed for both discovery and relaxation. Each surface of every suite and stateroom is new, while in the public spaces, the refreshed colour palette is inspired by the sea and sky. There's a focus on elevated dining with the choice of two-world class restaurants, cafes and poolside casual dining. Facilities include a world-class spa and wellness centre for the ultimate wind-down.

The 18-night California Coast and Vegas Exploration package includes a 13-night cruise onboard Regatta, a two-night hotel stay in Vancouver and three nights in a Las Vegas hotel, international flights to Vancouver, returning from Las Vegas. From $7990 per person and up to $4000 bonus value included. To find out more, visit mycruises.com.au/package/exploration-california-coast-and-vegas-exploration-2027