Eden, New South Wales, Australia

Not just a natural playground, the sapphire coast is also peppered with charming coastal towns waiting to be explored.

Much of Eden’s history revolves around Twofold Bay, the Southern Hemisphere’s third deepest harbour. Perched on this magnificent bay, Eden was once home to shore-based whaling stations, including Davidson Whaling Station, a surviving reminder of the adventure and danger that was part of life in this isolated coastal town. The legendary killer whale, Old Tom, who helped local whalers, is a character you’re bound to come across when uncovering Eden’s history. Learn about Old Tom’s intriguing story at the Eden Killer Whale Museum (find out more in the What to See section below).

EDEN SHORE EXCURSIONS

Looking for some adventure?

Book a shore excursion in Eden! To book an Excursion, login to your HAL account and go here:

VOYAGE ONE: Eden Shore Excursions

VOYAGE TWO: Eden Shore Excursions

WHAT TO SEE IN EDEN

Eden Killer Whale Museum

Eden is a favourite stomping ground for whales on their migratory journey and it’s the only place in the world where wild killer whales and men worked together to hunt baleen whales, a partnership that spanned hundreds of years. So, where better to begin your Eden experience than at the Killer Whale Museum, where you’ll find the unique story (and skeleton) of Eden’s most famous killer whale, Old Tom.

Sapphire Coast Oysters

Sapphire Coast locals know a thing or two about oysters. Thanks to the meeting of Antarctic and Equatorial ocean systems, the pristine waters of the Sapphire Coast have been producing award-winning oysters forever. So follow the locals’ lead and experience the delectable blend of creaminess, sweetness and saltiness for yourself at a local farm or restaurant.

Merimbula And Pambula

Merimbula’s magic lies in its unspoiled beaches and award-winning seafood. There’s also the scenic Merimbula Boardwalk, a 3.5 kilometre trip, which takes less than one hour to complete and is nicely broken up by a cafe. The nearby historic village of Pambula also boasts beautiful beaches and its main street is home to local art, an award-winning bakery and boutique clothing.

MORE ABOUT EDEN

Getting Around

Eden’s town center is within a short walking distance, however please note this is a steep walk uphill to town. There is also a Hop on Hop off shuttle bus running every 15 minutes from the wharf to the town centre via two scenic stops and the Visitor Information Centre. Tickets are $10 per adult for the day (children are free).

Taxis

Taxis are available from the wharf area.

Dining

Watch the local fishermen in action at Eden Wharf, then pop into nearby Wharfside Cafe and try it for yourself. For delicious seasonal produce and artisan products straight from local backyards and farms, Sprout Eden is a tempting option too. Quarantine authorities do not generally allow food such as fruit and vegetables, dairy and meat products and sandwiches to be taken off the ship however commercially packaged confectionery, chips and bottled drinking water are allowed, subject to inspection.

Shopping

Eden has a vibrant community of local artists exhibiting their work through a network of studios and galleries, like local award-winning artist Anna Warren. You can find her gallery, Full Fathom Five at Snug Cove. Local art collective, Art on Imlay can be found on Imlay Street, where you can also find boutiques. For local literature and souvenirs, visit Eden Killer Whale Museum and Eden Visitor Information Centre.

Climate

Eden enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm to hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Daily temperatures range from 22 to 23 degrees in summer and 10 to 13 degrees in winter.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards and charge cards are widely accepted. Automatic teller machines can provide currency to foreign cardholders.

Communication

A public telephone is available on Main street, Eden. Mobile coverage is available throughout Eden town. Free WiFi is available at the Eden Access Centre (9am – 5pm Mondays to Fridays) and Eden Fisherman’s club (daily from 10am until late). At Snug Cove, Wharfside Cafe offers free wi-fi to customers.

What To Wear Ashore

To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, please wear comfortable flat-soled shoes, lightweight clothing and a hat. You’re also advised to bring sunscreen and bottled water.

Shore Tours

There are a range of Shore Tours available to really get the most out of your time along the Sapphire Coast. Shore Tours can be booked onboard at the Shore Tours desk and are subject to availability. Guests are required to meet at a specific location for each Shore Tour departure. Please refer to your Shore Tour ticket for the correct time and place.