Australia should definitely be on your bucket list if you are looking for a place to escape to pleasant temperatures and warm weather. This year-round cruise destination is full of eye-catching beaches, breathtaking coastlines, iconic landmarks, and scenic surroundings. Just give it a shot, and you will create memories that will last a lifetime.
Best time to cruise Australia
Even though Australia is great for cruising all year round, there are some months when doing it is much more pleasant. The best months to cruise in Australia are from October to April. Also knowns as "Wave Season," this period is so popular because the weather is just amazing for exploring beaches, snorkeling, strolling, and surfing. Keep in mind that the official Australian cyclone season starts on November 1 and ends on April 30, while the highest risk of a major storm is between March and April.
Australian cruise itineraries
Most Australian cruises focus on destinations that include Noumea in New Caledonia, Port Vila in Vanuatu, Port Denarau in Fiji, and Auckland in New Zealand. Sydney features most of the departures, while Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Fremantle in Perth are also not behind the curve.
Recently, circumnavigations have become popular in Australia. Princess, Holland America, and Cunard present an amazing opportunity to see every port in the country. Usually, circumnavigations take from 28 to 33 days, depending on the number of ports visited. Another popular attraction in Australia is a cruise to or from an Australian homeport to the islands of the South Pacific. It departs from Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. With Australia's vast coastline, plenty of operators offer small-ship explorations to such locations as Cape York, the Kimberley, Top End, and Murray River.
Practical info
When is the best time to cruise in Australia and why?
The period from October to April is the best time to go on cruise in Australia due to the pleasant weather and availability of outdoor activities like snorkeling and surfing. It is called the 'Wave Season.' Furthermore, the official Australian cyclone season extends from November to the end of April, and there is an increased risk of severe storms from March to April. Show more
What destinations are usually included in an Australian cruise itinerary?
Noumea in New Caledonia, Port Vila in Vanuatu, Port Denarau in Fiji and Auckland in New Zealand are among the destinations included in most Australian cruise itineraries. Sydney is the most common port of departure, but other options are available including Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth in Fremantle. Additionally, operators offer small-ship exploration routes to unique places such as Cape York, the Kimberley, Top End, and Murray River along Australia's vast coastline. Show more
Where do most Australian cruises depart from?
Sydney is the most commonly used port for departures, and is also the most popular. Nonetheless, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth in Fremantle can also be used. The choice of port depends on the itinerary and tour operator. Some cruises circumnavigate the country, while others concentrate on smaller areas such as the South Pacific or the Great Barrier Reef. Show more
What are the most popular cruise routes for circumnavigations?
The most in-demand Australian cruise routes for circumnavigations are operated by Princess, Holland America, and Cunard. These cruises usually take 28 to 33 days, depending on the number of ports visited. They usually halt at all Australian ports, as well as famous landmarks, scenic locales, and popular towns and cities. Show more
Are there any unique Australian small-ship exploration routes that are worth exploring besides the usual cruise destinations?
In addition to the usual cruise destinations, several unique Australian small-ship exploration routes are worth exploring. Cape York, the Kimberley, Top End, and Murray River provide breathtaking landscapes, wildlife and cultural experiences. Besides, small-ship excursions across the Great Barrier Reef and South Pacific islands such as Vanuatu and Fiji offer an intimate experience of Australia's natural wonders. Show more
