An Australian cruise is really one of the best ways to get a taste of this huge variety of places without moving around constantly packing and unpacking. You can see alive cities and breathtaking natural areas all in one holiday. Every morning, you arrive somewhere new, looking forward to discovering another piece of the Australian culture, history, and beautiful landscape. Whether you want to try some adventure, spend some relaxing time, or dive into the culture, an Australian cruise goes within the top five most enjoyable and simplest ways of traveling.
Sailing through Australia isn’t merely about the scenery. It is your access point to memorable experiences that will define a trip. From snorkeling through beautiful coral reefs to trekking through the ancient forests, there is so much to do and see on an Australian cruise. Below are some of the most popular adventure activities that you can undertake while on your Australian cruise.
Great Barrier Reef snorkeling is a chance to dive in one of the most famous natural landmarks of the planet. Snorkeling and scuba diving with tropical fish, sea turtles and beautiful coral reefs in the crystal-clear warm water. This adventure is for all experience, as it gives all and sundry the opportunity to witness the colorful marine life at first hand which makes it one of the must-do in your Australian cruise.
Trekking through the Blue Mountains offers scenic views of cliffs, eucalyptus trees, and waterfalls that are very stunning. These include easy strolls and steep treks and are suitable for all hiking enthusiasts. During the hike, you are likely to come across some spectacular viewpoints such as the Three Sisters making it a wonderful exercise for nature lovers.
Sydney Harbour can be explored in a more personal way by taking a kayak ride and there is no better place for it than Sydney. Sail through Sydney Harbour and under the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House and through secluded bays. This journey is a mix of the sea and the city, where you can paddle with a kayak and enjoy the view of Sydney skyline at the same time.
If you are in for the biggest thrill, do not hesitate to swim with great white sharks in Port Lincoln in a cage. This takes you right to the face of one of the sea’s most dangerous animals, but you are well protected in a cage. For those who want to challenge themselves and feel the uncompromising force of the great world, it is one of the most thrilling trips.
Riding camels is another method of sightseeing, especially the Australian Outback where the red desert stretches as far as the eye can see. The flexibility of the path means that as you ride through the rough countryside, you will be able to have a better appreciation of the Outback and the ability to be on your own.
Zipline through the Daintree Rainforest treetops and enjoy the great adventure and one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Fly over the forest canopy and discover the beauty of the foliage and wildlife. This adventure is therefore suitable for those who love adventures and nature.
Taking surf at Bondi beach is one of the most iconic Australian cultures. In fact, for the first timers, the waves of Bondi are perfect, while for the professionals, they can never go wrong with the waves that Bondi has to offer. Take a break and watch the waves after you are done surfing or just spend some time on the shore of the famous sand beach.
A ride in a hot air balloon during the sunrise in the Outback allows one to see the vast desert area covered with a few rocks and trees. The gentle flight offers a calm and yet a thrilling method of admiring the interior part of Australia and therefore, is considered one of the best attractions to look at in a cruise.
Wildlife lovers can have the time of their lives when in Kangaroo Island. Go for a wildlife tour to find kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, and many other animals in the wild. The variety of the climate and landscapes of the island creates a perfect opportunity to look at the Australian wildlife firsthand and therefore is a nature lover’s dream come true.
Cycling through the Barossa Valley gives a very interesting and relaxing way of enjoying one of the best wine producing areas in Australia. Sip and savor wine at some of the most famous wine producers in the world, travel through some of the most picturesque wine countries, and sample delicious food. This adventure entails cycling and the best in wine and foods.
An Australian cruise enables one to port at some of the most beautiful and colorful destinations in the Australian continent. Every stop provides an insight into the colorful Australian cities and its history and beautiful nature. These ports of call range from the modern and diverse city of Sydney to the wild island state of Tasmania. Here is the list of some of the most visited places to visit during an Australian cruise.
Sydney is one of the most famous cities in Australia with the beautiful harbor, delicious cuisine and rich culture. These are the famous tourist attractions like Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Bondi Beach among others. Visit the Rocks, the oldest area in Sydney, go to Manly Island by ferry or just walk around the city that is a mix of different cultures. Australia's largest city and the most famous tourist destination is Sydney which is vibrant city with a touch of nature.
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Cairns is the starting point for many of the most popular reef trips, snorkeling and diving, among the best in the world. Other tourist attractions that are near the reef include visiting the Daintree rain forest, taking a rail journey to Kuranda or just enjoying the sandy beaches. Cairns is a dream destination for lovers of active recreation and extreme tourism.
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Hobart is a lovely place that has a lot of history and art-related things going on. Tour the Salamanca Market or see the convict architecture at Port Arthur or take a drive-up Mount Wellington for a view. Hobart also remains as a hub to the natural wonders of Tasmania and therefore it is a perfect place for tourists interested in the natural and historical aspects of the place.
Melbourne is famous for art and culture, food, and diverse neighborhoods. Walking around the streets with graffiti, going to the Royal Botanic Gardens, or even taking a trip to the Yarra Valley wine making district. Melbourne is a culturally diverse and relaxed city with many tourists visiting it.
Brisbane gives visitors a combination of nature activities as well as modern city experience. Visit the South Bank Parklands, take a river cruise, or travel to the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast. Brisbane is a welcoming port of call as it is warm and has a friendly atmosphere due to the warm climate.
It is a city renowned for beautiful buildings, green parks and gardens and wine-producing regions like the Barossa Valley. Tour the Adelaide Central Market, ride a tram to Glenelg Beach or, visit the historic town of Hahndorf. Adelaide is a cosmopolitan city without the frenetic pace of other larger capitals and is ideally placed to explore the best of South Australia.
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Fremantle is a port city in Perth, and its attractions include history, markets and beautiful beaches. Visit the famous historic prison of Fremantle, check out the Fremantle Maritime Museum or take a ferry to Rottnest Island to see the cute Quokka. The climate is also sunny, and the atmosphere relaxed in the city of Perth, which is a pleasant change when on a cruise.
Darwin is a warm, multicultural city with a strong indigenous culture and a starting point for some of the most spectacular Australia has to offer namely the national parks of Kakadu and Litchfield. Explore the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, discover the Indigenous history at Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, or take a crocodile spotting cruise on the Adelaide River. This is why Darwin is an interesting port – it has a culture and yet it has adventure.
Port Arthur is among the most important historical sites in Australia, providing the visitors with the insight into the convict era of the country’s history. Visit the old structures that are still standing, go on a guided ‘ghost’ tour, or rent a boat and go to the Isle of the Dead. Port Arthur is both beautiful and gloomy, and its history is quite interesting so it’s a very striking place to visit.
The location is ideal since Airlie Beach is the main entry point to the Whitsunday Islands, beautiful sandy beaches, and transparent blue waters and the Great Barrier Reef. Sail around the islands, sunbathe on Whitehaven beach or go snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, the Coral Sea. One of the most popular destinations on any Australian cruise, Airlie Beach is a tropical wonderland.
There is no doubt that a cruise to Australia is one of the most exciting voyages one can ever take, and it is even more fulfilling to have a great cruise line to work with. For the glamour, excitement, or family vacation, these cruise lines and their ships will offer you excellent service and many choices of cruises to give your Australian vacation an unforgettable experience.
Azamara Cruise is famous for exploring the more diverse and offering overnight and extended port visits to get to know Australia’s top attractions. Azamara Onward, and Azamara Pursuit, are two ships with fewer passengers, more attention to guests, and options to visit places that are not accessible to large ships. This is a great cruise line for travelers who are interested in going below the surface of the Australian culture and terrain and who want a boutique experience.
Book Azamara CruisesCarnival Cruise Lines is one of the best cruise lines for families and for those who are in search of lively entertainment. The Carnival Luminosa and Carnival Splendor have numerous facilities that will keep guests entertained; water parks, comedians, and various eating joints. These ships are suitable for clients who would like an adventurous stay in Australia with numerous events to always engage in.
Book Carnival CruisesFor those who wish to go for a traditional and more lavish cruise then Cunard is a great option. The Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary 2 are more luxurious with white-glove service, grand dining rooms, and luxurious staterooms. Many of Cunard Australian voyages feature calls at popular ports such as Sydney and Melbourne or cruising the beautiful coastline. This line is ideal for those who prefer a luxurious and slow-moving cruise.
Book Cunard CruisesIt’s a combination of fun and fun but more fun and relaxation in equal measure with the focus on the natural world of Australia. Coral Princess and Crown Princess offer a sophisticated and refined atmosphere, high standards of service and numerous opportunities for shore activities ranging from snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef to exploring the bush of the Outback. This cruise line will be good for those who like a more traditional cruising style with numerous chances for excitement.
Book Princess CruisesThe company of Norwegian Cruise Line has adopted the policy of “Freestyle Cruising” that provides the guests with the freedom of choices for dining and entertainment. The Norwegian Spirit is relatively laid back and informal with a plethora of dining facilities and things to do for all guests. This cruise line is perfect for those who would like to visit Australian independently and have the option to choose the kind of cruise they want to have and the duration they would like to spend at sea.
Book Norwegian CruisesFor cruises to Australia, the best itineraries often include stops at iconic destinations like Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, and Melbourne, offering a mix of urban exploration, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. Onboard amenities enhance the journey, with luxurious spas, diverse dining options, and engaging entertainment, ensuring a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation throughout your Australian cruise:
10-Nights South Pacific Cruise: Starting from Papeete, this cruise includes an overnight stay in Bora Bora and 3 days in the gardens of Rarotonga. These are the beautiful sandy beaches and colourful reef and fish of Bora Bora and the Polynesian culture of Rarotonga. The voyage ends in Auckland, New Zealand; passengers can visit the beautiful waterside and enjoy the city’s nightlife.
12-Nights New Zealand & Australia Cruise: Starting in Auckland, this trip covers most of New Zealand’s picturesque coastal towns such as Tauranga, Napier and Picton. Some of the highlights include the cultural aspect of Christchurch city, the historical aspect of Dunedin city and the natural aspect of Milford Sound. The cruise ends in Sydney with an opportunity to visit the world-famous Sydney harbor and the energetic city of Sydney.
Azamara Cruises offers Australia itineraries that emphasize immersive experiences and extended port stays, allowing guests to explore each destination in depth. Onboard, the intimate atmosphere is enhanced by personalized service and luxurious amenities, including specialty dining, a tranquil spa, and enrichment programs. Evening performances and cultural events complement the day's adventures, ensuring a well-rounded and memorable journey.
7-Nights Great Barrier Reef Cruise: Starting in Brisbane, this cruise is an interesting and entertaining voyage along the northeastern coast of Australia with a possibility to visit such tropical places as Airlie Beach, Cairns, and Port Douglas. Some of the activities include visiting the Great Barrier Reef and the scenic cruising at Willis Island while on board. Entertainment is making memories, and the trip includes two entertaining days at sea before getting back to Brisbane.
9-Nights Queensland Cruise: This cruise takes you from Sydney and takes a thrilling tour of the northeastern coast of Australia with destinations to Willis Island, Cairn, and Airlie Beach. Some of them can be mentioned like the stunning Moreton Island and the ability to explore the Great Barrier Reef. More than one fun day at sea is provided to the passengers to entice them and let them enjoy all the facilities on board before they reach Sydney again.
Carnival Cruise Lines' Australia itineraries are perfect for families and those seeking fun-filled voyages. On board, guests can enjoy a different type of entertainment, from lively shows and comedy clubs to waterslides and game zones. Dining options are diverse, and there's something for everyone, from casual eateries to fine dining. The atmosphere is vibrant, with activities for all ages.
6-Nights Southern Australia Explorer Cruise: Starting from Sydney, this cruise will take you on a beautiful cruise to some of the most energetic cities like Hobart and Melbourne in Australia. Some of the exciting features are the historical part of Tasmania and the cultural side of Melbourne. The cruise terminates in Adelaide with a few leisurely days on the high seas in which to explore the ship’s facilities.
9-Nights Queensland Cruise: From Sydney, this cruise takes you through the beautiful east coast of Australia, with stops at Moreton Island, Airlie Beach and Cairns. Some of the overviews are the natural site of Port Douglas and a scenic view of Willis Island. It ends in Brisbane with a couple of leisurely days on board to make the most of the facilities on the ship.
Princess Cruises' Australia itineraries offer a blend of relaxation and exploration, with a focus on comfort and discovery. Onboard, guests can indulge in world-class dining, rejuvenate at the Lotus Spa, and enjoy Broadway-style shows. Enrichment programs and cultural presentations enhance the experience, while multiple pools, lounges, and serene spaces ensure a relaxing voyage.
Here are some essential tips to consider before embarking on your Australian cruise:
Weather Check: Check the weather forecast for the regions you'll be visiting. Australia's weather can range from tropical in the north to temperate in the south, so packing accordingly ensures you're prepared for varying conditions.
Travel Documentation: Ensure your passport is up to date and check for any visa requirements for Australia. Some nationalities may need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or visa before arrival, so verify these details well ahead of your departure.
Health and Vaccinations: Confer with your healthcare provider about any recommended vaccinations for Australia, such as the flu shot or others, based on your health history. Pack a personal health kit with necessary medications, seasickness remedies, and basic first aid items.
Local Currency: The Australian dollar (AUD) is the local currency. While credit cards are widely accepted, it's helpful to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in remote areas. Currency exchange services are available onboard and at most ports.
Packing Essentials: Australia's climate can vary, so pack light, breathable clothing for warm days, along with layers for cooler evenings or air-conditioned rooms on the ship. Don't forget swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes for exploring onshore.
Cruise Itinerary: Familiarize yourself with your cruise schedule, including departure times, ports of call, and available excursions. This will help you plan your activities and make the most of each destination you visit.
Cultural Research: Australia has a rich cultural heritage, so take some time to learn about the local customs and history. Basic phrases in Australian English and knowledge of Indigenous cultures can enrich your experience and interactions.
Connectivity Check with your portable provider about international roaming plans and onboard Wi-Fi options to stay connected during your cruise. This ensures you can keep in touch with family or manage travel plans while at sea.
Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that protects against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. This is particularly important when cruising, as medical care on board can be costly without insurance.
Safety Protocols: Attend the mandatory safety drill onboard and familiarize yourself with emergency procedures. Knowing the location of lifeboats and emergency exits will help assure your safety in case of an emergency.
Popular ports include Sydney, Cairns, Brisbane, and Melbourne. Each offers unique attractions, from Sydney's iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge to the Great Barrier Reef near Cairns and the cultural vibrancy of Melbourne.
Pack for warm weather, including light, breathable clothing, swimwear, and a hat. Also, bring layers for cooler evenings: comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a lightweight rain jacket. Don't forget adapters for Australian outlets and any necessary medications.
No specific vaccinations are required for Australia, but it's advisable to be up to date on routine vaccinations like tetanus, measles, and flu. Consult your healthcare provider for any other recommendations based on your itinerary and health history.
Yes, a passport is required for international travelers visiting Australia. Ensure it is useful for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Check visa requirements, as some nationalities may need an ETA or other visa before arrival.
Australian cruises offer a variety of onboard activities, including pools, spas, fitness centers, and live performances. Many ships feature themed nights, educational talks about Australian wildlife and culture, and excursions like snorkeling or wildlife tours to enhance your cruise experience.
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