Cruises from Australia

Explore Stunning Australia on a Cruise with Cruise1st

There’s no denying the allure of Australia, a vast land known for its breathtaking beauty, friendly locals, and unique wildlife. With stunning beaches, dramatic coastal landscapes, and vibrant cities, visiting Australia on a cruise makes for an unforgettable experience. Fun fact: Australia is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system, which can be seen from outer space! Whether you’re keen on exploring cosmopolitan cities, soaking up the sun on pristine beaches, or discovering the natural wonders of the outback, a cruise provides the perfect way to experience the best of what Australia has to offer.

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to Australia

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17, Princess has 6 ships making their way to Australia, including the Crown Princess and Discovery Princess. These vessels are particularly known for their excellent family-friendly amenities and immersive local experiences. Most cruises depart from domestic ports like Sydney or Brisbane, making it convenient for cruisers wanting to embark on their adventures right from home, alongside international options from Los Angeles or Auckland.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 29, Royal Caribbean has 4 vessels offering itineraries to Australia—most notably the Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas. These ships stand out for their innovative onboard facilities, such as surf simulators and rock climbing walls, ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike. Passengers can choose to set sail from domestic ports in Sydney or Brisbane, or from international hubs like Singapore or Honolulu—planting the seeds for an exciting getaway!
• P&O Australia: Entirely dedicated to the Australian market, P&O Australia has a fleet of 3 ships, all of which cruise locally. Ships like Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter deliver a fun, relaxed atmosphere and great value for families. They primarily depart from domestic ports such as Sydney and Brisbane, maximizing convenience for local cruisers.
• Cunard: With a smaller fleet of 4, Cunard offers 3 ships visiting Australia, including the iconic Queen Elizabeth and Queen Anne. Famous for their old-world elegance and superb dining experiences, Cunard vessels cater to a more upscale clientele. Cruises often depart from domestic ports in Sydney or Fremantle, with numerous international ports like San Francisco and Southampton.
• Holland America Line: This line operates a fleet of 11 vessels, 5 of which offer itineraries to Australia. Noordam and Westerdam are particularly popular for their diverse dining options and onboard enrichment programs. Sailings typically depart from domestic ports Sydney or Perth (Fremantle) and also cater to cruises starting from international ports such as Auckland or Fort Lauderdale.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Australia

• Oceania Cruises: Comprising a fleet of 8, Oceania has 6 ships navigating Australian waters. The Regatta and Riviera are famed for their exquisite dining experiences and destination-focused itineraries. Most departures are available from domestic ports like Sydney and Perth, alongside international departures primarily from Auckland or Singapore, making it a refined cruising option catered to gourmet lovers.
• Silversea: With a fleet size of 12, Silversea offers 4 ships making their voyage to Australia, including Silver Nova and Silver Muse. Known for their all-inclusive luxury experience, Silversea excels at personalized service and gourmet dining. Departures often occur from domestic locations such as Sydney or Melbourne, while international embarkations commonly happen from Auckland or Singapore.
• Seabourn: This luxurious cruise line operates a fleet of 6 ships, 3 of which venture to Australia, primarily Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Pursuit. Renowned for ultra-luxury experiences and small-ship intimacy, guests receive exceptional service and gourmet dining onboard. The majority of cruises depart from domestic ports like Sydney and Darwin alongside other international ports including Auckland Islands or Benoa, ensuring you experience the highest level of luxury.
• Azamara Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 4, Azamara operates 2 ships offering itineraries to Australia. The Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward are known for their immersive destination experiences, allowing passengers to truly connect with the culture. Departures mostly occur from domestic ports such as Sydney and Melbourne, supported by international departures from Auckland or Singapore.

Top Australian Harbours to Discover

• Sydney: As the iconic gateway to Australia, Sydney boasts stunning attractions. When docked, visitors can marvel at the Sydney Opera House and take a stroll across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The famous Bondi Beach is a short drive away, perfect for sunbathing and surfing! For a unique experience, consider a ferry to Manly for beautiful coastal views.
• Brisbane: The vibrant capital of Queensland, Brisbane offers a lively riverside culture. Cruise passengers can enjoy a visit to South Bank Parklands, which features beautiful gardens and a man-made beach. Don't miss the chance to head up to Mount Coot-tha Lookout for panoramic city views and consider exploring the popular Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art.
• Melbourne: Known for its arts and culture, Melbourne is a delight for those who love coffee and cuisine. While docked, explore the laneways filled with street art, cafes, and trendy boutiques. The Melbourne Aquarium is perfect for families, and don’t miss the chance to visit Federation Square for its vibrant events!
• Cairns: The adventure capital for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is brimming with options! Passengers can take a snorkelling tour or a scenic helicopter flight over the reef. The Esplanade offers a great spot for a walk or a swim in the lagoon. Remember to also explore nearby Daintree Rainforest for unique flora and fauna experiences!
• Hobart, Tasmania: Hobart is a charming, historic port city with a vibrant arts scene. While docked, be sure to visit the Salamanca Market for local arts and crafts, and don’t miss MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art. The scenic views from Mount Wellington are an unforgettable highlight—perfect for photo ops!

When to Cruise to Australia

Australia's climate varies dramatically based on the region, but here’s a general breakdown of what to expect. From January to March, summer reigns with warm temperatures averaging 25-35°C, great for beach lovers. April to June offers mild weather between 15-25°C, perfect for exploring the cities and national parks. July to September sees the cooler winter months with temperatures dropping to around 5-20°C, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. Finally, in October to December, temperatures start to warm again, ranging from 20-30°C, with spring flowers blooming across the landscape!

Pricing Overview for Australian Cruises

A typical week-long cruise to Australia can range between $1,800 to $3,500 AUD, while a two-week experience may set you back from $3,500 to $7,000 AUD, depending on the time of year and itinerary details. Luxury cruises may start from around $5,500 AUD for a week, up to $12,000 AUD for two weeks. On average, meals onboard are included, but if you opt to dine out, you can expect to spend anywhere from $20-$50 AUD per meal, while drinks typically range from $10-$15 AUD.

Alternative Regions Worth Exploring

If you’re considering a cruise to Australia, think about these remarkable alternatives:

• New Zealand: Known for its stunning landscapes and Maori culture, New Zealand offers adventure seekers a perfect blend of nature and culture, complete with breathtaking fjords and lush green mountains.
• South Pacific: With its picture-perfect beaches and friendly locals, the South Pacific invites relaxation and exploration with island-hopping adventures between iconic destinations like Fiji and Tahiti.
• Adriatic Sea: This region is filled with charming coastal towns and cities, allowing visitors to delve into rich cultural history against the backdrop of stunning blue waters.
• Asian Coast: Encompassing diverse cultures, the Asian Coast provides cruisers with an array of experiences, from bustling city life in Hong Kong to the tranquil beaches of Thailand.
• Alaska: If you're after adventure, the wild beauty of Alaska, with its glaciers and wildlife, offers a colossal contrast to the Australian experience and is perfect for those who love the great outdoors.

Ready to explore the wonders of Australia? With Cruise1st, your dream vacation awaits. Let's get you on the water to experience some of the most captivating sights down under!