Kangaroo Island Cruises

Kangaroo Island, just a stone’s throw from the South Australian coast, is a true treasure waiting to be explored. Known for its rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and rich wildlife, it’s a perfect destination for cruisers looking to immerse themselves in nature. Did you know that Kangaroo Island is home to Australia’s largest population of sea lions? Or that its Flinders Chase National Park features natural wonders like the Remarkable Rocks? Visiting Kangaroo Island on a cruise allows you to conveniently access its breathtaking landscapes while enjoying the comforts of your ship. Prepare for a unique adventure that combines relaxation and exploration!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Trips to Kangaroo Island

• P&O Australia: With a fleet size of 3 ships, P&O Australia has 2 that sail to Kangaroo Island, including the popular Pacific Explorer and Pacific Adventure. Both ships are known for their lively atmosphere, family-friendly activities, and delicious onboard dining options. Cruisers can easily embark from Australian ports like Adelaide or Sydney, making it a stress-free start to their journey!
• Holland America Line: This line features 11 ships, with 3 offering itineraries that include Kangaroo Island. The Noordam and Westerdam stand out for their elegant dining experiences and superb live entertainment options. Holland America departs from both Sydney and Perth (Fremantle), ensuring that local cruisers have convenient access to this stunning destination.
• Princess Cruises: With a total fleet size of 17, Princess Cruises has 3 vessels visiting Kangaroo Island, with the Diamond Princess and Crown Princess being the top ships. Renowned for their luxurious amenities and outstanding service, cruising with Princess offers a memorable experience. Expect departures from Adelaide or Melbourne, making it easy for Aussie cruisers to hop on board.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: NCL has a fleet of 20 ships, with 1 focusing on Kangaroo Island—Norwegian Sun. This ship is known for its freestyle cruising experience, allowing guests to enjoy dining and activities at their leisure. Departing most often from Melbourne, summer cruising down under just got a whole lot more attractive!
• MSC Cruises: With 23 vessels in their fleet, MSC has 1 ship sailing to Kangaroo Island—MSC Magnifica. Guests can indulge in the fine cuisine and entertainment options this ship has to offer. Departing from international ports such as Genoa or Barcelona, this cruise may be perfect for those looking to combine a Mediterranean adventure with an Australian destination!

Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines in Kangaroo Island

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania boasts 8 ships, with 3 visiting Kangaroo Island, including Insignia and Regatta. Both ships offer gourmet dining experiences and intimate onboard amenities, perfect for those seeking a luxurious escape. Departures usually occur from Perth (Fremantle) or Sydney, giving you the opportunity to start your adventure with ease.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea has 3 vessels that explore Kangaroo Island, including Silver Nova and Silver Moon. Known for their all-suite accommodations and exceptional service, these ships provide an exclusive cruising experience. Departures typically take place from Cairns or Melbourne, ensuring cruisers indulge in luxury from the start.
• Azamara Cruises: This line comprises 4 ships, with 2 that make journeys to Kangaroo Island—Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward. They are celebrated for their immersive itineraries and longer port stays, allowing you to fully explore each destination. Departures happen from Sydney and Singapore, ensuring that your journey begins as you wish.
• Seabourn: Featuring a fleet of 6, Seabourn includes 1 ship sailing to Kangaroo Island—Seabourn Sojourn. This luxury vessel is distinguished by its high staff-to-guest ratio and all-inclusive offerings. Expect departures from Sydney, making it convenient for Australian cruisers to embark on this luxurious getaway.

Top Harbours to Visit on Kangaroo Island

• Penneshaw: This picturesque town welcomes you with pristine beaches at your doorstep. When your cruise ship docks, explore the local shops, take a stroll to Penneshaw Beach, or visit the Penguin Centre for a chance to see adorable fairy penguins in their natural habitat.
• Kangaroo Island: Most visits will centre around this stunning island, renowned for its rich wildlife and scenic landscapes. Don’t miss a trip to Flinders Chase National Park, where you can hike the well-marked trails and visit the iconic Remarkable Rocks. Bring your camera to capture the truly breathtaking views!
• Adelaide: While not on the island, many cruises to Kangaroo Island depart from Adelaide. If you have time, make sure to explore the city’s beautiful parks, local wine culture in the Barossa Valley, or visit the Adelaide Central Market for fresh produce and local delicacies.
• Melbourne: Another common departure point, Melbourne’s lively laneways and foodie scene are worth a visit. You can take a tram ride down to Federation Square or visit the Royal Botanic Gardens, ideal for those wanting to explore before boarding your cruise!
• Hobart, Tasmania: For a quick detour, Hobart boasts stunning views and rich culture. Visit the MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) for a unique experience, or spend leisure time wandering through Salamanca Place and its vibrant markets.

When to Cruise to Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island boasts a mild climate with four distinct seasons, offering fantastic conditions for cruising at various times of the year. From January to March, temperatures average 20°C to 28°C, making it a peak time for visitors with plenty of outdoor activities available. Travelling April to June offers slightly cooler temperatures ranging from 16°C to 23°C along with fewer crowds—perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat. July to September, winter hits, and temperatures can drop to 12°C to 18°C, but you’ll discover fewer tourists, making it possible to enjoy the natural wonders without the hustle. Finally, from October to December, temperatures begin warming up again, averaging between 16°C and 26°C, perfect for enjoying spring flowers and wildlife!

The Cost of a Cruise to Kangaroo Island

When planning your trip, a typical one-week cruise to Kangaroo Island can cost between $1,000 to $2,000 AUD, while luxury cruises may range from $3,500 to $6,000 AUD for a premium experience.

For dining while on the island, expect to pay around $15 to $30 AUD for a meal at a local eatery, with drinks such as wines and beers around $5 to $12 AUD. This lets you explore the culinary delights without stretching your budget toothin!

Alternative Regions to Explore from Kangaroo Island

If you’re intrigued by the idea of cruising to Kangaroo Island but are considering other options, why not check out these five intriguing alternatives:

• Tasmania – Renowned for its untouched landscapes and local wildlife, Tasmania offers stunning national parks and fantastic hiking trails. You can explore the captivating history of its capital, Hobart, while enjoying an array of culinary delights.
• South Australia – Discover the beauty of the Flinders Ranges, Barossa Valley wines, and Adelaide’s vibrant culture. It’s an exceptional addition if you’re looking for diverse experiences.
• Queensland – From the Great Barrier Reef to the lush rainforests of the Daintree, this state offers spectacular coastal scenery and countless opportunities for adventure.
• New Zealand – Famous for its breathtaking landscapes and rich Maori culture, a cruise to New Zealand takes you from rolling hills to stunning fjords that are awe-inspiring for nature lovers.
• Victoria – Explore the stunning Great Ocean Road, vibrant culture in Melbourne, or soak up history in charming coastal towns. Victoria promises a variety of beautiful experiences for every cruiser.

Ready to embark on an unforgettable cruise to Kangaroo Island? With Cruise1st, booking your journey couldn’t be easier. Discover the wild beauty, stunning landscapes, and charming culture Kangaroo Island has to offer. Your adventure awaits!