Cruises from Australia

Discover the Wonders of Australia on a Cruise

Australia, with its vibrant cities, breathtaking coastlines, and unique wildlife, offers an unforgettable cruising experience. A cruise around Australia provides the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of this vast country, from breathtaking beaches to the rugged Outback. Fun fact: Did you know Australia is the only continent that is also a country? This means cruising along the coast allows you to see some of the world’s most famous sights—from the Sydney Opera House to the Great Barrier Reef—all in one trip!

Top Harbours to Explore in Australia

When cruising down under, these five harbours are must-sees that showcase Australia’s unique beauty and attractions:

Popular Ports Before or After Your Australia Cruise

Several key ports are typically visited before or after cruising Australia, enhancing the overall experience:

The Best Time to Experience Australia

Australia is a year-round destination, but the best time to cruise depends on your preferences. Generally, the peak season runs from December to February, which is summer in Australia, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. During this period, you can enjoy warm beach weather, vibrant festivals, and outdoor adventures. However, if you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting from September to November or March to May, when temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. This shoulder season allows you to enjoy the stunning scenery with more comfortable conditions while avoiding the busy tourist rush!

Cruise Pricing Overview for Australia

Thinking about the cost of a cruise down under? For a 1-week cruise to Australia, prices generally range from $1,200 to $3,000 for standard experiences, while luxury options can start from $4,000 to $8,000. If you’re considering a longer, 2-week cruise, expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,500 for regular available cruises and $9,000 or more for a luxury experience. The cheapest months to cruise Australia typically fall within the shoulder seasons of September to November and March to May, while peak summer months often command higher prices. When in Australia, dining out generally costs around $20 to $50 for a meal while drinks are typically priced around $5 to $15.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Australian Adventures

• Princess Cruises
  With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises features seven that journey to Australia, including Crown Princess and Discovery Princess. Departures commonly take place from Sydney or Brisbane, and Princess is known for its immersive onboard experiences and exciting shore excursions tailored for family adventurers of all ages.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises
  Royal Caribbean operates a fleet of 29 vessels, four of which offer itineraries to Australia, such as Ovation of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas. Most cruises set off from Sydney or Brisbane, with a focus on exhilarating onboard entertainment and diverse dining options, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
• P&O Australia
  With a fleet of three ships fully dedicated to Australia, P&O offers its unique local cruising experience with Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter. Departures predominantly happen from Sydney or Brisbane, making it the perfect option for those seeking seamless itineraries without the need for international travel.
• Cunard
  Cunard comprises a fleet of four luxurious ships, with Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2 being among those visiting Australia. Typical departures occur from Sydney or Perth (Fremantle), known for its iconic luxury and heritage cruising experience, offering a refined onboard atmosphere and traditional British charm.
• Holland America Line
  With an 11-ship fleet, Holland America has five ships embarking on Australian cruises, particularly Noordam and Westerdam. Various departures are available from Sydney or Perth, with a strong focus on destination immersion and cultural experiences, providing cruisers with a truly engaging holiday.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Silversea
  With a fleet of 13 ships, Silversea operates six vessels that sail to Australia, led by Silver Nova and Silver Muse. Departures are often from Melbourne or Sydney, and Silversea is known for its ultra-luxury service, intimate atmosphere, and destination-rich cruises, creating a truly remarkable experience for guests.
• Oceania Cruises
  With eight ships in total, Oceania features six with itineraries to Australia, including Regatta and Riviera. Most cruises depart from Sydney or Perth (Fremantle), renowned for its culinary experiences and destination-focused journeys that allow guests to explore each location’s unique culture.
• Viking Ocean Cruises
  Viking boasts a fleet of 11 ships, with five offering itineraries to Australia, including Viking Orion and Viking Venus. Departures primarily happen from Sydney, with a focus on destination exploration, incorporating thoughtfully designed shore excursions for enriching travel experiences.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent operates six ships, five of which cruise to Australia, notably Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Mariner. Typically departing from Sydney, their all-inclusive luxury offerings ensure guests enjoy unparalleled service and extraordinary experiences while exploring Australia.
• Seabourn
  This luxury cruise line operates six ships, three of which have itineraries that include Australia—Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Pursuit. Departures commonly take place from Sydney or Broome, with a focus on delivering intimate experiences, luxurious accommodations, and bespoke excursions tailored to individual tastes.

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise

If Australia has captured your imagination, consider these alternative cruise regions:

• New Zealand: Known for its stunning landscapes, including mountains, beaches, and vineyards, New Zealand offers diverse adventures for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. With rich Maori culture, it’s an excellent destination for immersive experiences.
• South Pacific: With crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and warm hospitality, the South Pacific islands beckon with laid-back charm. Popular destinations include Fiji and Tahiti, which provide magnificent beaches and rich cultures.
• Australian Coast: Cruising along Australia’s own coastline allows you to witness both the stunning natural beauty and vibrant regional culture. From tropical Queensland to the cool temperate regions of Tasmania, the coastal experience is second to none.
• Asian Gateway: The array of vibrant cultures, stunning landscapes, and delectable cuisines in Asia makes it an exciting alternative. Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan are all incredibly distinct and culturally rich destinations that complement an Australian cruise.
• Indian Ocean: The Indian Ocean offers beautiful islands like Mauritius and Seychelles, along with diverse marine life and local cultures. Ideal for relaxation or adventure, this region can provide a delightful getaway.

Book your unforgettable cruise to Australia with CruiseAway today! With stunning scenery, rich wildlife, and unique cultural experiences awaiting, it’s time to set sail towards adventure!