round australia cruises 2024

Australia Circumnavigation Cruises

Want to go on a cruise around Australia? That's a "circumnavigation" cruise. Surprisingly, there aren't a lot of these "circle Australia" cruises available. It's a long voyage, and that limits the number of people who have the time to take it. All of the options are listed below.

Australia's major cities are on the coast, so a cruise round the continent is a natural way to explore. The cruises typically depart from Sydney and include stops at Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Darwin and more. Often they go to Tasmania and Bali too.

The map above is of a Holland America cruise round Australia.

February 14, 2024: 34-night cruise around Australia on Royal Caribbean . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Brisbane (Australia), Gladstone (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Exmouth (Australia), Perth (Australia), Esperance (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Hobart (Australia), Picton (New Zealand), Lyttelton (New Zealand) and Dunedin (New Zealand).

February 29, 2024: 26-day cruise around Australia on Princess Cruises . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Brisbane (Australia), Willis Island (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Broome (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Perth (Australia), Busselton (Australia), Albany (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Burnie (Australia) and Hobart (Australia).

October 18, 2024: 30-night cruise round Australia on Cunard Line . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Bali (Indonesia), Broome (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Fremantle (Australia), Albany (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Hobart (Australia) and Port Arthur (Australia).

October 26, 2024: 26-day cruise around Australia on Princess Cruises . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Hobart (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Albany (Australia), Busselton (Australia), Fremantle (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Broome (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Willis Island (Australia) and Brisbane (Australia).

November 17, 2024: 35-day Australia circumnavigation cruise on Holland America Line . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Newcastle (Australia), Brisbane (Australia), Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Komodo Island (Indonesia), Broome (Australia), Exmouth (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Fremantle (Australia), Albany (Australia), Port Lincoln (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Kangaroo Island (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Hobart (Australia) and Port Arthur (Australia).

December 22, 2024: 34-day Australia circumnavigation cruise on Oceania Cruises . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Newcastle (Australia), Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Cooktown (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Bali (Indonesia), Exmouth (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Perth (Australia), Busselton (Australia), Albany (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Kangaroo Island (Australia), Portland (Australia), Phillip Island (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Burnie (Australia) and Eden (Australia).

Australia Cruises 2024, 2025, 2026

Make an enquiry today, share this with your friends, view upcoming luxury & premium australia cruises 2024, 2025, 2026, from sydney to the kimberley, adventure awaits on cruises around australia.

Whether you are planning Australia cruises from Sydney or want to sail away on expedition cruises to the Kimberley, there will definitely be a sailing that perfectly suits your schedule. Furthermore, cruises around Australia have something for every kind of voyager. From bustling city adventures in Sydney or Melbourne, endless beach-hopping in the Gold Coast or the Whitsundays, to magnificent natural vistas in the Kimberley or the Great Barrier Reef, there are simply so many places to go across this marvellous country of Australia.

Discover our gorgeous coastline and beyond on Australia cruises

The brilliant advantage of Australia cruises are their proximity to fantastic destinations nearby including New Zealand, the South Pacific, and Asia! Enjoy a couple of relaxing days along the eastern coastline, then sail across the ditch with an excellent trip to some unforgettable fjords in New Zealand. Sail up from Melbourne and see the Harbour Bridge in Sydney, then journey to the sandy shores of the South Pacific. Take a memorable jaunt to Darwin before heading up to some vibrant cultures in Asia. Regardless of your choice, any Australia is destined to be one you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Let a luxury cruise take you on unforgettable Australia cruises

What really makes cruises around Australia better than so many other destinations across the globe? The luxury cruise lines that operate down under year-round! World-renowned cruise lines such as Silversea , Ponant , and Windstar offer spectacular Australia cruises that elevate your journey from the moment you arrive. Boasting remarkable accommodation options and exquisite dining venues that will scintillate the tastebuds, to onshore excursions organised by teams with decades of experience, booking an Australian cruise with a luxury cruise line is a must for anyone searching for an immersive and extraordinary holiday. From Australian expedition cruises to grand Australian circumnavigations, check out the upcoming itineraries from these cruise lines today before they are inevitably booked out!

Let Discerning Traveller plan your next Australia cruise

Planning an Australia cruise doesn’t have to be a challenge, let one of our wonderful travel consultants at Discerning Traveller do all the hard work for you. Contact us today and we will be on hand in a matter of moments to craft for you a bespoke Australian cruise package that suits your preferences, schedule, and budget. Call us on 1300 950 622 today and start your journey towards organising the perfect Australian adventure!

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There’s so much to be excited about in 2024/2025 in Australia and New Zealand. Not only are we going to enjoy a full season in the Land Down Under, but we’re making this bucket list experience even more unforgettable with Celebrity Edge®, the first revolutionary ship in our Edge® Series. There’s no better way to experience this amazing region of the world than aboard the first ship designed to make the destination the center of attention with its outward-facing design. Celebrity Edge is the ultimate elevated resort at sea.

Itineraries

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Sydney, Australia

Auckland, New Zealand

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Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Hobart, Tasmania

Melbourne, Australia

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Learn More About Our New Season of 2024 Australia & New Zealand Cruises

We’ve designed incredible itineraries to offer the best of Australia and New Zealand, including sailings that feature Auckland, New Zealand as a departure port. Our new season in Australia and New Zealand also gives you more time in the places you visit, so you’ll be completely immersed in the culture and beauty of the destinations.

Our 2024/2025 sailings will introduce you to some of the most memorable destinations you can imagine, from the lush landscapes and volcanic mountains of New Zealand and the rugged outback of Australia to the bustling, cosmopolitan city life of Sydney and Melbourne, Australia. You’ll discover unique wildlife and landscapes in this awe-inspiring destination. You’ll be immersed in the Maori’s rich history and traditions. You’ll marvel at the magnificence of Milford Sound. These sailings also offer incredible visits to the Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania, and islands in the South Pacific, including Fiji. You’ll experience a vacation that doesn’t feel like a vacation at all—it’s a life-changing journey you’ll cherish long after you return home. 

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Grand Australia Circumnavigation

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Grand Australia Circumnavigation Map

Scenic shores & island heritage

Discover a rich combination of beauty and culture as you circumnavigate Australia, encountering iconic natural wonders and lesser-known cultural gems. Admire the Whitsunday Islands that lie within the heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, and the wilds of northwestern Tasmania. Immerse yourself in the intriguing histories of Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne as you journey around the continent, as well as explore Indonesian treasures in Komodo and Bali.

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28 Nights Australia Circumnavigation Cruise on the Crown Princess Departing on the 26th October 2024

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WONDERS DOWN UNDER

Australian cruises.

From urban verve to outback wilderness, Australia is a year-round sunny paradise.

A large island nation, Australia delivers the best of both the city and the country, the beach and the bush. The locals here are a laidback and friendly bunch, with a dry sense of humor and their own slang language. Explore cosmopolitan Sydney, home to Bondi Beach's turquoise waters and the architecturally unique Sydney Opera House. Cruise to Australia and visit Queensland to experience the Whitsunday Islands, where you can snorkel to see the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest living organism. For an authentic Australian adventure, head to the outback: Check out Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, with its red dome known as Ayers Rock.

From The Bush To The Beach

From urban verve to outback wilderness, Australia is a year-round sunny paradise

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Join the throngs of sun-kissed Australian surfers and catch some of the world's best waves on Australia's beaches.

SWOON OVER SYDNEY

Visit Australia and tour Sydney's urban attractions like the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and Taronga Zoo. For outdoor fun, nap on the white sands of Bondi Beach or scale the magnificent rock formations of the Blue Mountains.

MEET MELBOURNE

Melbourne is a hipster haven and Australia's culture, coffee and sports capital. Grab a flat black (the Australian version of an Americano, with espresso and hot water) at Patricia on Little Bourke Street, then rent a car and start off on the Great Ocean Road, which will take you along sweeping views of Australia's southern coast.

HEAD TO THE OUTBACK

In the remote Northern Territory, visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: See the famous dome-shaped red rock rising out of the Central Australian Desert. Or check out Kakadu National Park, where you can see ancient rock art at Nourlangie or hike to the hidden waterfalls at Motor Car, Twin or Jim Jim Falls.

TOWN AND COUNTRY

Get to know the different sides of Australia, from vibrant, modern cities to wild, untamed wilderness.

KING AMONG REEFS

Snorkel, dive and swim along the Great Barrier Reef, the world's largest coral reef — you can even charter a glass-bottomed boat to stay dry while seeing the only living organism visible from outer space. The reef is accessible from places like Cairns, Airlie Beach, Townsville and Port Douglas in Queensland.

In Queensland, take a day trip to the surrounding tropical islands: Check out Fitzroy Island and its National Park, where you can laze on the white sands of the coral beach or go bird-watching for for emerald doves and white-bellied sea eagles. See the colored sands at postcard-perfect Fraser Island, or explore the wild island state of Tasmania during your vacation.

PICK A BEACH

Explore Western Australia's Cape Le Grand National Park, which offers stunning coastline set against rolling heathlands filled with kangaroos. Check out Queensland's Gold Coast, where you'll find local favorite Nobby Beach (known colloquially as "Nobby's"). Or get lost in Tasmania's Freycinet National Park, where pink granite cliffs overlook white-sand beaches and clear blue waves.

EXPEDITIONS DOWN UNDER SAY "G'DAY" TO AN OUTBACK ADVENTURE

Choose your Australian vacation adventure: Relax on a tropical island or one of thousands of beaches, hike in a remote national park or venture into the vibrant city.

SAMPLE SYDNEY

A sampler cruise from Sydney is a great way to experience both Australia's biggest city and an exciting cruise.

BE TANTALIZED BY TASMANIA

Tasmania is an underrated Australian state that's home to Cradle Mountain, the World Heritage-listed Port Arthur Historic Site and the eccentric Museum of Old and New Art among other things to do.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Arriving in Australia

The best time to visit Australia depends on where you want to go. The Great Barrier Reef, Queensland and the Northern Territory are best explored during dry season (May to September), while summer is the optimal time to visit southern states like Victoria and Tasmania.

Weather-wise, northern Australia enjoys an endless summer, but it does get cold in Victoria and Tasmania during winter. Meanwhile, Melbourne is known for displaying four seasons in one day, so always have a jacket and umbrella on hand, just in case.

Best Brilliance of the Seas Family Cruises | Royal Caribbean Cruises

March 8, 2024

Enjoy an insider’s guide to discovering the best family cruises for your next vacation onboard Brilliance of the Seas. Start sailing today.

Plan a Winter Vacation Abroad

Uncover the best travel ideas for adventuring on your winter vacation as you voyage on a getaway to visit Australia, New Zealand, & other destinations.

Great Barrier Reef Vacation Ideas

Discover the best water sports to try while on a Great Barrier Reef vacation and start planning your thrilling Australian adventure.

Visit Australia for Kite Flying Vacation

Plan a trip for visiting Australia for a sky-high kite flying adventure. Make your Australian vacation a sensation with these travel temptations!

10 Australian Vacation Experiences

Make your Australian vacation a sensation with these travel temptations! Discover the top 10 remarkable things to do when visiting Australia.

10 Best Things To Do in Australia

From Melbourne to Sydney to iconic animal experiences and world-class wine regions, here are the 10 best things to do in Australia.

A Guide to Australian Beaches

Discover the best Australian beaches for families, wildlife spotting, lounging, learning how to surf and diving into authentic beach culture.

In northern Australia, be aware that stingers (dangerous jellyfish) swarm the seas in the summer, from approximately October to March.

Tipping is not customary in Australia.

The universal phone number for taxi services across the country is 131008.

HOW TO DINE DOWN UNDER

"Fair dinkum" — Aussie slang for "authentic" or "genuine" — Australian cuisine has been influenced by England, New Zealand and even Italy. However, there's nothing more Australian than throwing some steak and snags (sausages) on a barbie (barbecue) — no shrimps allowed.

POPULAR PUB GRUB

There are two dishes to order at an Aussie pub: a chicken parmigiana (called a parmi Down Under) or a burger, which will usually come topped with Australian specialties like beetroot or pineapple. Of course, you can always go for a classic steaks: Porterhouses are popular in Victoria, while rump steaks are particularly beloved in New South Wales.

THE REAL BISCUIT

Australia has some delicious sweet treats, but it's perhaps best-known for perfecting the biscuit. Try Anzac biscuits with oats and golden syrup, lamingtons — a sponge square covered in chocolate and coconut — and Tim Tams, the local favorite brand of chocolate-covered biscuits.

IT'S PIE TIME

Meat pies — with a flaky pastry crust baked around a savory filling of ground meat (typically beef or lamb) and spices — are a traditional Australian lunch or snack found in bakeries across the country. Another favorite is the Chiko Roll, similar to a large spring roll but filled with the signature Aussie ingredients of mutton, celery, barley, rice, carrots and spices.

Related Ports

The Australian coast is dotted with beautiful ports, like Esperance, to explore. In Queensland, Cairns and Airlie Beach are both gateways to the Great Barrier Reef. Meanwhile, Darwin is a gateway to the Northern Territory's rugged natural sights, including Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, and Uluru.

Brisbane, Australia

Adelaide, Australia

Airlie Beach, Queensland

Cairns (Yorkeys Knob), Australia

Darwin, Australia

Esperance, Australia

Geraldton, Australia

Hobart, Tasmania

Melbourne, Australia

Newcastle, Australia

Perth (Fremantle), Australia

Port Douglas, Australia

Port Hedland, Australia

Sydney (White Bay), Australia

Sydney, Australia

Willis Island (Cruising), Australia

Wollongong (Port Kembla), Australia

Eden, Australia

Port Arthur, Tasmania

Cairns, Australia

Penneshaw, Australia

Gladstone, Australia

Exmouth, Australia

Albany, Australia

Related Destinations

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P&O 2024 Cruise Deals

Embark on a cruise holiday with P&O in 2024. Our line-up of 2024 cruises ranging from 2 – 28 nights truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends or both, you’re sure to find the cruise that’s right for you. Plus, on a P&O cruise, your fare includes accommodation, main meals in designated restaurants, most entertainment and activities, Kids Clubs and travel to some pretty unique destinations. Secure your spot on your dream cruise holiday with our 2024 cruise deals, and put something in the calendar that you can really look forward to.

There's a cruise for everyone, find yours

Cruises in 2024.

We’re excited to announce our first 28-night mainland Australia circumnavigation in 90 years on Pacific Explorer. Departing from Brisbane or Sydney in June 2024, the historic cruisewill take guests to 11 iconic Australian ports, living up to its name, the ‘ Australian Explorer ’ cruise. One to cross off your bucket list.

Don’t have 28-nights to spare? Don’t worry. You can choose shorter one-way cruises. Plus, our new 2024 cruising season is jam-packed with more Pacific Island cruises , Short Breaks , themed cruises, iconic Main Event cruises , and more opportunities to explore our own beautiful backyard on a cruise holiday to remember.

With cruises ranging from 2 to 28 nights, there's a vast array of choices for the 2024 cruising calendar. Conveniently departing from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Fremantle, Cairns and Auckland, P&O makes it easy to explore Australia or venture across the ditch to spectacular New Zealand with various cruise holiday packages .

All-inclusive cruise holidays in 2024

Aboard a P&O cruise ship, you’ll find a whole world of entertainment and most of it is included in your cruise fare.. We cater to all different kinds of cruisers - those who love to lounge by the pool all day, travel aficionados who revel at the opportunity to explore the local attractions on one of our many P&O Shore Tours, foodies who want to sample every dish from our delicious dining venues, and those that like to stay busy with a wealth of onboard activities and experiences.

Easy booking, unpack once and your holiday begins the moment you step onbaord

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Accomodation options to suit every taste and budget

Activities galore - deck games, lawn bowls, Mixology classes * , game shows, waterslides, Edge * and more

4 age-specific fully supervised kids clubs. Late night babysitting *

Your holiday, your way. Do it all, or nothing at all

Travel to some amazing and idyllic destinations

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Plan Your 2024 Cruise Holiday Now

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Round Australia & Round the World Cruises

Enjoy a full circumnavigation of Australia from from Brisbane ,  Sydney , Melbourne , Adelaide   and  Fremantle — as well as the longest full round-the-world voyage ever to depart from the east coast.

Phone 1300 414 198 to secure your cabin with a  refundable, no-risk deposit .*

Round Australia Cruise from Sydney (Mar 2025)

• First Australian season of the Crown Princess
• Shorter segments available for Melbourne & Adelaide passengers
• F​inal inside and obstructed ocean view cabins

Round Australia Cruise from Melbourne (Nov 2025)

• Circle the entire country on the Crown Princess
• Get in quick — this twice-a-year departure fills quickly!
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Round Australia Cruise from Sydney (Nov 2025)

Round Australia Cruise from Fremantle (Nov 2025)

Round Australia Cruise from Brisbane (Mar 2026)

Round Australia Cruise from Sydney (Mar 2026)

Round Australia Cruise from Melbourne (Mar 2026)

Circle the entire world on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

2026 World Cruise from Brisbane

A$25,289 pp.

• Book with Travel at 60 to save up to $1,000 per person*
• Circle the entire globe on the longest-ever world voyage from Australia
• 6 continents, 31 countries, 4​8 ports and more than 50+ UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Choose from a full circumnavigation or a range of shorter segments

2026 World Cruise from Sydney

Cruise Brisbane to London (2026 World Cruise Segment)

A$13,204 pp.

• Explore 23 amazing destinations over 53 unforgettable days!

Cruise London to Brisbane (2026 World Cruise Segment)

A$15,204 pp.

• Explore 26 amazing destinations over 61 unforgettable days!

Cruise Sydney to London (2026 World Cruise Segment)

A$13,704 pp.

• Explore 31 amazing destinations over 55 unforgettable days!

Cruise London to Sydney (2026 World Cruise Segment)

A$14,704 pp.

• Explore 25 amazing destinations over 59 unforgettable days!

Cruise Sydney to New York (2026 World Cruise Segment)

A$19,184 pp.

• Explore 3​5 amazing destinations over 77 unforgettable days!

Cruise New York to Sydney (2026 World Cruise Segment)

• Explore 13 amazing destinations over 37 unforgettable days!

Looking for something earlier?

Remaining cabins are strictly limited. phone 1300 414 198 to confirm pricing and availability..

2025 World Cruise from Sydney

A$24,498 pp.

• Save up to $1,000 per person*
• 38 ports, 28 countries, 6 continents
• T​he longest-ever circumnavigation from Australia!

Northern Explorer Cruise (Sydney-Fremantle, Apr 2025)

• Coastal cruise Australia's northern coastline
• S​tunning vistas and sandy beaches
• Reverse itinerary also available

Adelaide + Murray River + McLaren Vale Getaway

• Four days cruising the Murray River
• Spend three nights in Adelaide + explore the delights of McLaren Vale
• Travel at 60 bonus: Save up to $487pp*

New Zealand Cruise, Drive & Rail Package (Feb 2025)

• Includes three iconic rail journeys: the TranzAlpine, Coastal Pacific and Northern Explorer
• Explore NZ with car hire, pre-booked accommodation, a Milford Sound cruise and more!
• Cap off your adventure with a two-week homeward cruise to Sydney

Women only: 11 Day Portugal tour

• In Tomar, see the Templar Castle and explore its awe-inspiring rotunda 
• Step inside a medieval city with Roman ruins
• Indulge in a farm-to-table meal featuring locally sourced ingredients
• Travel at 60
• See the world
• Make friends

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Cruise line, departure date, 28 nights australia circumnavigation cruise on the pacific explorer departing on the 6th june 2024.

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P&O unveils 28-night Australian Explorer for 2024

P&O Cruises Australia has launched a 28-night ‘Australian Explorer’ circumnavigation around mainland Australia – a first-of-its-kind sailing for P&O Cruises – as part of its new 2023/24 program.

Pacific Explorer will host the inaugural voyage departing either from Brisbane or Sydney in June 2024.

The ‘Australian Explorer’ cruise is among the 23 Australian-focused cruises featured in P&O’s new 2023/24 program, and the new ‘Australian Explorer’ cruise and 2023/24 program will go on sale on Wednesday 13, October 2021.

Guests will experience the attractions of 11 iconic Australian ports including state capitals and regional centres with Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Albany, Fremantle, Exmouth, Broome, Kuri Bay, Darwin, Cairns and Airlie Beach on the spectacular itinerary, along with a call at Ambon in Indonesia. The cruise also includes scenic cruising of Yampi Sound and Raft Point in the Kimberley region.

P&O Cruises Australia President Sture Myrmell said: “The ‘Australian Explorer’ cruise is a powerful reminder of P&O’s proud history working with tour operators and a wide range of businesses to offer guests exceptional experiences onboard and at fantastic destinations.”

The cruise is expected to contribute an estimated $20 million in economic activity including the combination of guest and crew spending, ship supplies and port-related costs.

Some of the businesses and suppliers at destinations on the extensive itinerary, and who look to cruising to support their tourism success, include:

Cairns — ‘ Bad Fishy Jet Boating’ operated by couple Nikki Giumelli and Patrick McLoughlin who offer cruise visitors a high energy adrenaline pumping jet boat experience of Tropical North Queensland’s tourism hub. Airlie Beach — ‘Ocean Rafting’ with Jan and Peter Claxton offering a spectacular waterborne view of the jewels of the Whitsundays. Sydney — ‘Select Fresh Providores’ where Steven Biviano and his team supply the best local produce that helps make dining in P&O ships something to remember. Melbourne — ‘Localing’ , a luxury private touring business founded by Dean Hampel and Daniel Platt who offer city experiences and regional day tours that put guests in touch with local culture and life. Broome — ‘Broome Transit’ , a local tourism and coaching powerhouse established by Shayne Murray who began building his business 12 years ago with a taxi service. *Subject to availability, conditions apply.

IMAGE: Ocean Bar, Pacific Explorer

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Australia Cruises & Cruisetours

Discover the stunning beauty of australia.

Australia is teeming with vast treasures. Indulge in seasonal delicacies and fine wines. Snorkel among technicolor fish. Discover ancient cultures, explore historic landmarks, and tour the country’s most charming cities. Princess will help you create memories to last a lifetime.

Australia Cruises

Australia outback adventure cruisetour.

Visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: soak in the brilliant underwater colours of the Great Barrier Reef, and then watch the setting sun transform the sky as Uluru (Ayers Rock) glows red from afar.

Photo: The beauty of Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Ultimate Australia Cruisetour

Our most extensive Cruisetour guides you through the highlights of Sydney, radiant Uluru in the heart of the outback, scenic Kakadu National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with wildlife), Darwin, Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef.

Photo: Australia’s magical Great Barrier Reef

Excursions — your gateway to Australia's best attractions

Explore the Great Barrier Reef from Airlie Beach / Ngaro Country. Visit the award-winning Rainforestation National Park in Cairns / Gimuy. Ride a camel along the shore, and learn the secrets to pearl farming in  Broome / Rubibi . On itineraries with More Ashore Late Night calls, we stay until at least 9 p.m. in port so you can experience some of the fabulous nightlife.

And with a range of  Discovery Recommended and Exclusive excursions  available only with Princess Cruises, you’ll see Australia in a whole new way.

Let the Journey Begin

Lifestyle & culture.

Pursue your passion for wine, beer and chocolate with a taste-testing tour in the Margaret River region. Explore the art and crafts in the charming cities of Hahndorf and Montville, or visit a variety of museums and cultural parks to celebrate Australia’s rich native and colonial history.

Photo: Enjoy regional wines

Natural wonders & landscapes

Traverse a canopy path above the forest floor for a bird’s-eye view of the ancient karri and tingle trees near  Albany . Behold the otherworldly spires at Perth’s Nambung National Park. Explore the underwater beauty of the Great Barrier Reef, or travel inland to Tamborine Mountain, a fertile volcanic plateau that boasts 21 species of birds.

Photo: Pinnacles Desert in Perth's Nambung National Park

Unique & iconic wildlife

From Tasmanian devils to wombats and kookaburras, you’ll encounter fascinating animals and plants from the region and from around the globe at  Brisbane’s   Australia Zoo, Melbourne’s Healesville Sanctuary, Sydney’s Featherdale Wildlife Park and the Perth Zoo.

Photo: The iconic Tasmanian Devil

Monuments & Masterpieces

Architecture.

Sydney  hosts several architectural delights, including the iconic Sydney Opera House and the 320-meter-tall Sydney Tower and Government House, one of Australia’s finest examples of colonial-style architecture. In the heart of  Melbourne  sits Federation Square, and rising 230 meters into  Brisbane  skyline, the SkyPoint viewing deck boasts 360-degree views of the Gold Coast.

Photo: The Sydney Tower is the tallest structure in the city skyline with the second tallest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere

Art & museums

Many of Australia’s museums are closely tied to the land, its people and history. Hobart is known for its well-preserved 19th century National Trust buildings, Broome’s / Rubibi museum traces native life and the pearling industry, while in Tasmania you can discover what life was back in the early 1900s.

Photo: Richmond Bridge in Hobart, Tasmania

UNESCO world heritage sites

While the Sydney Opera House is a prime example of architectural design at its finest, Port Arthur’s humble penal colony stands as a grim reminder of Australia’s early beginnings. There are a number of natural World Heritage Sites, including the Great Barrier Reef, the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the Blue Mountains and the Rainforestation National Park.

Photo: The Blue Mountains boasts ancient ravines, lush forests and stunning waterfalls

Australia & New Zealand Cruise Articles

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Tauranga Shore Excursions: Maori Culture and History Comes Alive

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These 10 Melbourne travel tips from Princess Cruises will help you experience the best of this iconic Australian city as only a local would.

Fiordland National Park Excursions: Experience the Majesty of New Zealand

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The 7 best cruises to float away on in Australia in 2024

Want to sail away in major kind of way? We've got you covered

If cruising on a large, luxurious vessel to exotic destinations is your kind of adventure, you’ll be pleased to know that in Australia, the options are pretty endless.  Although cruises aren’t for everyone, they can be a pretty excellent way of exploring far-flung places while still maximising your time off. 

We've found the eight best Australian cruise routes and companies that each offer up something a little different for the curious cruiser.  Whether you're after a family-friendly oasis, an adult's-only paradise, a seriously luxe holiday, a bespoke adventure, or an affordable trip away, there's an Australian cruise experience out there for everyone.

Now, all that's left is for you to buy a large sun hat and channel Jennifer Coolidge circa White Lotus , season two – just without the sticky ending bit (obviously). 

RECOMMENDED:  One in four Australians plan to set sail on a cruise in 2024 .

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The best cruises in Australia

1.  National Geographic Explorer – Kimberley Expedition, Northwest Australia to Indonesia

As the name suggests, this one's for those who like a more intrepid kind of adventure holiday. Live out all your explorer fantasies on this expensive, yet (by the sounds of it) mind-blowing sail from Western Australia to Bali. You'll be on an authentic expedition ship exploring hard-to-reach places. Their fleet of tiny Zodiac boats will take you up close to ancient Indigenous rock art, saltwater crocs and komodo dragons. Plus, you'll get coached by a legit Nat Geo photographer on how to capture your most magazine-worthy shot.

When: May, June and July 2024.

What:  16 days sail from Broome in WA, to WA's remote reefs and islands, to Darwin, to remote islands in the Indonesian archipelago, ending in Bali. 

Good for: Wildlife adventurers, wilderness lovers, people who dream of being a National Geographic Explorer and have a bit of time (and cash) to spare. 

Price: From $14,926 per person.

2.  Coral Expeditions – Cairns to Cairns, via Great Barrier Reef

Although not crazy cheap, this intimate Aussie-owned cruise experience is for those who want the ease of seafaring travel, but not the big crowds. With a maximum of 72 people allowed on board their specially designed Coral Discoverer vessel, you can feel good about exploring the rainbow wonders of the Great Barrier Reef over the span of a week. Plus, there's a marine biologist on board.

When: November and December, 2024 and 2025.

What: 7 nights from Cairns to Cairns, exploring remote islands and untouched bits of the Great Barrier Reef along the way. 

Good for:  A shorter holiday in the summer break, people who like snorkelling, the outdoors and getting off the beaten track.

Price: From $5,340 per cabin.

3.  Carnival Cruises – Sydney or Brisbane to the South Pacific

If you're keen to get way out of town, but don't want to spend your life's savings, consider Carnival Cruises. Although these folks offer up the gigantic floating hotel vibes that are the stuff of some people's nightmares, they are pretty affordable. With trips going all year round from either Sydney or Brisbane to the bright blue waters of the South Pacific, you should be able to find something that suits you. 

When: Annually, 2024 and 2025.

What:  7–10 days all-inclusive sail from Brisbane or Sydney to multiple islands dotted through the South Pacific. 

Good for: Kids, budget-seekers, those who want a holiday without having to think about getting from A to B. 

Price: From $706 per cabin.

4.  P & O – Brisbane and Whitsundays to Brisbane

The Whitsundays are arguably the most photogenic watery place in Australia, so it makes sense to explore them by sea. If you're short on time and money, P & O Cruises offer you a quick and all-inclusive getaway that won't break your bank. Think tropical reef snorkelling, dazzling blue waters and sugar white sand for your next long weekend. 

When: Every month in 2024 and 2025.

What: 4 night sail from Brisbane, Airlie Beach, and then back to Brisbane.

Good for : Budget-seekers, families, snorkelling fanatics, the time-poor. 

Price: From $524 per person.

5.  Disney Magic at Sea – Sydney and Melbourne to Brisbane, Hobart or Noumea

Disney Wonder cruises range from between two to seven days, for which time guests will be fully immersed within a magical Disney world. You'll get to hang out with characters such as  Captains Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, experience what they call "imaginative" world-class dining, and be treated to Disney-riffic entertainment, including musical performances and original theatrical shows – all while sailing the seas and visiting  ports, including  Noumea,  Hobart and Eden.

When: On selected dates throughout 2024 and 2025

What: 1-7 nights sail from either Sydney or Melbourne to Brisbane, Hobart or Noumea. 

Good for: Kids, families, serious Disney fans. 

Price: From $1,649 per person

6.  Celebrity Cruises – Sydney and Melbourne to Eden, Adelaide or Hobart

Despite its rather funny name, Celebrity Cruises is pretty good value for anyone wanting to sail on a short and sweet trip down Australia's east coast. Expect classic cruise fare, but also great prices for an all-inclusive and reasonably luxe trip to the cold, windswept regions of southern Australia. They even have a specific 'Australia Wine' tour, for those who are so inclined. 

When: On selected dates across 2024. 

What: 4-6 night sail from Sydney or Melbourne to either Adelaide's wine regions, or down to Eden and Hobart. 

Good for:  People short on time, those keen on Adelaide and Tasmania, and wine lovers. 

Price : From $1,002 per person.

7.  Royal Carribean Cruises – Sydney to New Zealand

If you're in Sydney and want to get over the ditch to NZ, getting on a cruise could be a fun way to do it. Royal Carribean offers up the kind of all-inclusive gigantic cruise experience that may not be everyone's cup o' tea – but you do get to bop across the high seas to numerous ports on New Zealand's gorgeous coast, and then come back to Sydney again. Essentially, it's good value for what you get, and for how many new places you will get the chance to see. 

When : On selected dates in 2024 and 2025. 

What : 10-12 night sail from Sydney to special ports, islands and natural wonders all across New Zealand, and then back to Sydney again. 

Good for:  Travellers who want to see both Australia and New Zealand while they're this far down south, people in a mid-tier budget range, nature lovers, those who enjoy travel efficiency. 

Price : From $1,482 per person.

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Have you ever dreamed of leaving your cares behind and sailing away to a sunny distant land cooled by ocean breezes? Cruises to Australia, New Zealand or the South Pacific could be just the ticket. Our Australia and New Zealand cruises take you on a journey to a special part of the world, where you’ll see spectacular natural wonders—the Great Barrier Reef, New Zealand’s Milford Sound, the volcanoes of Hawaii. You’ll call at fabled islands like Fiji, Nouméa and Tasmania. And you’ll traverse an ocean landscape where impossibly green islands seem to float in blue lagoons clearer than you could imagine.  

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The best new cruises in the world: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: every spring when we pull together the Hot List, our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of travelling the globe – to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage – it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali . We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that makes a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From around £574 per person for a seven-night sailing. Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara, Emerald Cruises

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August , the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles . Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia, has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From around £3,112. David Dickstein

Explora I, Explora Journeys

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where ageing meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs – such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic – curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From around £564 per person per night. Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with a capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map – forgetting your sunscreen , for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the speciality seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crewmembers dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From around £1,818 . Charlie Hobbs

Lauren Burvill

Shannon McMahon

Connor Sturges

Corinne Brooking

MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the Italian cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details – this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevvy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. Itineraries from around £420. Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Cruise Line

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima. There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over-the-top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From around £791. Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista, Oceania Cruises

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilisers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience – Vista’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley , and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year, Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year, it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul , Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025. From around £2,182. Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse. Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs – and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveller. From around £6,025. Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn Cruise Line

Pursuit is a small, “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear – or damp Arctic expedition gear – in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From around £8,729. Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek islands , and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travellers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving speciality pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jewelled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From around £3798. Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool , the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate – as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture and place before even disembarking. From around £2465. Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton, Viking River Cruises

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio – designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration – just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt ’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travellers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real-time to shepherding travellers through modern night markets with endless fervour. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen – and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travellers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton, and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until that is, your next Aton sailing). From around £4849. Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady, Virgin Voyages

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai . Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship – 20-plus to be exact – and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From around £1616 . Rachel Dube

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass. Back in your cosy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant – think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favourite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From around £1495. Celeste Moure

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The 12 Best All-Inclusive Cruises for 2024

When it comes to all-inclusive cruises, there are a few different options:

• Luxury cruise lines: All-inclusive cruise rates are available on luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas and Silversea. While more expensive than traditional cruise rates , the fares cover nearly everything, including door-to-door transfers, luxurious suite accommodations, specialty dining , premium alcoholic beverages and excursions. Plus, you don't need to show your cruise card every time you order a latte or a pre-dinner cocktail. You'll disembark the ship with very few, if any, additional charges on your final bill.
• Cruise lines with inclusive pricing: Alternatively, you can consider an upscale cruise line like Viking, which offers fares with more-inclusive pricing and some of the amenities found on board the fully inclusive lines. However, you'll still have to budget for a few expenses, such as immersive excursions and alcoholic beverages beyond wine or beer at lunch and dinner.
• Packages and add-ons: Other cruise lines like Oceania, Windstar and Norwegian offer add-on drink packages and other promos so you can create a more all-inclusive experience.

After comparing the costs between a truly all-inclusive cruise and a sailing with package pricing for the extras, the total price may be closer than you think.

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All-Inclusive Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Regent Seven Seas touts its six ships – with the newest vessel, Seven Seas Grandeur , which debuted in late 2023 – as "the world's most luxurious fleet." The line's intimate ships accommodate up to 750 guests. They feature all ocean-view suites, prestigious museum-quality art collections (including a prized Fabergé egg on the new Grandeur), and itineraries that call on more than 500 destinations around the world.

With Regent's "every luxury included" philosophy and 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares, passengers receive round-trip airfare and transfers between the airport and ship, as well as unlimited shore excursions, two- or three-night land programs (based on the itinerary), and a complimentary pre-cruise hotel package for concierge suites and higher. On the ship, enjoy a fully stocked in-suite minibar; specialty dining; unlimited fine wines, spirits and other beverages; prepaid gratuities; unlimited Wi-Fi; and free valet laundry service.

On top of personalized service, guests sailing on Regent Seven Seas cruises will enjoy immersive exploration ashore – with overnights in some ports of call – and enrichment programs. Top-notch dining includes French cuisine at Chartreuse (on select ships), Pan-Asian fare at Pacific Rim (also on select ships) and Italian fare at Sette Mari at La Veranda.

Cooking classes in the Culinary Arts Kitchen (available on Grandeur, Splendor and Explorer ), some tours and bespoke excursions, spa treatments, unique offerings, and certain wines and top-shelf liquors come with an additional cost.

Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Silversea Cruises

Sailing on board one of Silversea's 13 ultra-luxury cruise or expedition ships commences with the line's new chauffeur experience. This door-to-door service transports guests from home to the airport and back home on the return trip. The line's all-inclusive pricing also encompasses international or domestic flights (with business class upgrades in certain destinations), pre- and post-cruise hotel accommodations, butler service in every suite, all gratuities, gourmet dining, and complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, including Champagne.

Guests will also enjoy a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly 1-to-1 – and with no more than 728 guests. Other all-inclusive perks include at least one shore excursion in each port plus onboard lectures and programming. On expedition sailings in destinations like Antarctica , all guided Zodiac tours and landings are included in the fare.

When it comes to dining on Silversea ships, gourmet options feature French, Asian and Italian cuisine along with other international fare. For a special evening, S.A.L.T. Kitchen is a new destination-focused concept on Silver Ray, Nova , Moon and Dawn . This immersive dining experience, Sea And Land Taste, was developed in partnership with the former editor-in-chief of "Saveur Magazine," Adam Sachs. The culinary offerings with S.A.L.T. also include shore excursions, where guests can tour a 500-year-old family winery and vineyard in Croatia, visit an organic farm in Denmark, or learn to make gelato in Sicily.

Expenses not covered in Silversea's fare include salon and spa services, personal training sessions, select excursions, upgraded internet packages, and special bottles of wine or liquors.

Compare Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn's seven purpose-built expedition vessels and intimate luxury cruise ships accommodate between 264 and 600 guests. The club-like atmosphere on board its ships comes with highly intuitive and personalized service with about a 1-to-1 staff-to-guest ratio. Each suite also has a dedicated personal suite host and a suite attendant that will cater to your every whim.

All-inclusive fares include oceanfront suites with walk-in closets, living areas and luxurious bathrooms. All Seabourn Encore and Ovation accommodations feature private verandas, while 90% of the suites on Seabourn Odyssey , Sojourn and Quest have balconies. Premium and penthouse suites offer additional amenities and perks.

While aboard Seabourn Cruise Line , guests will enjoy complimentary fine wines and premium spirits, welcome Champagne, and a fully stocked in-suite bar with your personalized selections. Dining is a real treat, with several venues in partnership with renowned chef Thomas Keller, such as the line's signature restaurant, The Grill by Thomas Keller. Seabourn is also a member of the prestigious Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international association of gastronomy.

Other complimentary amenities on Seabourn's cruise ships include special evenings with dinner and live entertainment; a marina and complimentary water sports; "Caviar in the Surf" on select voyages; movie nights; a chance to shop with the chef at local markets; personal valet luggage shipping service; enrichment lectures; and more.

Additional expenses include a wide selection of epicurean, mindfulness and wellness excursions as well as cultural and historical bespoke tours. You can also book the ultimate underwater adventure on one of the line's high-tech submarines on the two expedition vessels, Seabourn Venture and Pursuit. Programs and treatments at Seabourn's Spa & Wellness are also at an additional cost.

Find a Seabourn Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages features "always included" cruise fares on its two purpose-built yachts, World Navigator and World Traveller. The line recently welcomed a third ship to its fleet for the 2023-24 Antarctica season, World Voyager. Atlas' high-end boutique ships cater to just 198 passengers and feature spacious staterooms and suites with panoramic windows or private balconies and beautiful public spaces and lounges. These small ships also have several options for dining, depending on the sailing and destination.

The all-inclusive fares cover complimentary dining; unlimited wines, craft beers and spirits; 24-hour bar service with canapes; a free in-room minibar; afternoon high tea; fresh-pressed juices and specialty teas and coffees; butler service; 24-hour room service; prepaid gratuities; cultural immersion in every port; and other perks.

Polar expedition fares cover private charter jet service, group transfers from the airport to the yacht, an Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest to take home, Zodiac sightseeing safaris, expert guided shore landings, and destination lectures and briefings.

If you're on one of the line's Epicurean Expeditions, the cultural immersion program offers complimentary special tastings, market visits and cooking demonstrations. In addition to use of the marina's water toys (on select sailings, weather permitting), guests can enjoy an authentic Portuguese dinner and an alfresco Josper Grill dining experience at 7-AFT Grill. On select voyages, culinary presentations, wine tastings and other special events are hosted by an expert.

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More-Inclusive Cruises

Cruise fares with these lines include many of the amenities and perks that you'll find with the all-inclusive cruises. However, you'll still need to budget for some expenses, such as alcoholic beverages, excursions and specialty dining, depending on the line.

Viking's ocean fleet of nine 930-passenger all-veranda ships offers a nearly all-inclusive experience for guests. The upscale Scandinavian-inspired ships feature king-bed staterooms and suites with many amenities, including luxurious linens and plush robes, 24-hour room service, and free Wi-Fi – plus an in-room minibar with soft drinks, water and snacks. Higher-category staterooms on Viking Ocean Cruises come with additional perks like priority dinner and spa reservations, early stateroom access, and a welcome bottle of Champagne.

Cruise fares also include complimentary dining at all the venues; one free shore excursion in every port; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; specialty teas, coffee and bottled water; access to the spa; lectures and performances; port taxes and fees; and more.

Viking also has two 378-passenger Polar Class 6 expedition vessels, Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris. These ships also offer a mostly all-inclusive experience with the same amenities as their oceangoing vessels. Pricing on the expedition sailings includes Zodiac safaris, the use of kayaks, a keepsake Viking jacket, and essential gear for excursions and landings.

Select excursions, pre- or post-dinner cocktails, spa treatments, special bottles of wine, and other optional purchases come at an additional expense.

Book a Viking cruise on GoToSea.

Azamara's four upscale boutique ships carry a maximum of 702 guests and offer immersive experiences around the world, calling on many smaller, lesser-known ports. The line also boasts more than 380 overnights and 850 late nights in port, so guests can have dinner in town and experience more of the destination's local culture and cuisine.

Azamara's cruise fares include all meals (other than the specialty dining restaurants) with water, tea and coffee. A selection of complimentary wine, sparkling wine, beer and spirits is available throughout the voyage. Cultural evenings ashore or on board the ship and gratuities are also included in the basic cruise fare.

If you'd like to enhance your onboard experience, Azamara offers inclusive "Experience More" packages that are discounted and based on the length of the voyage.

For example, on a seven-day or shorter sailing, solo travelers can add a package for $799 that's valued at $1,114 (a savings of 28%). This value-add bundle includes $350 of onboard credit to use for shore excursions; unlimited Wi-Fi for one device; a drinks package featuring premium wines, spirits and bottled water; a $150 spa credit; and a dinner at the Chef's Table or a total of three nights of specialty dining at Prime C or Aqualina. Three bags of laundry are also included.

Guests can book similar packages for double occupancy staterooms and longer voyages. You can also choose individual beverage, dining or internet packages if you don't need the extra amenities or features of the bundled options.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages' four superyacht-inspired ships are designed with adults in mind and feature 1,330 cabins (most with balconies) and 78 RockStar Quarters suites, where guests have access to Richard's Rooftop, an exclusive outdoor deck space. Pricing with the adults-only cruise line includes stateroom or suite accommodations and meals at more than 20 eateries serving up international cuisine and dishes created by Michelin-starred chefs. Guests also have access to complimentary Wi-Fi; unlimited group exercise classes; nonalcoholic drinks such as water, tea and coffee; and plenty of lively entertainment.

Virgin does not offer beverage packages, but the line at times advertises special promotions that include voyage credits to cover expenses like airfare and drinks. Shore excursions and spa treatments – including skin care offerings on board Scarlet Lady in partnership with Jennifer Lopez, Virgin's chief entertainment and lifestyle officer – are some of the additional expenses not covered in the base fare.

Find a Virgin Voyages deal on GoToSea.

Add-on Packages and All-Inclusive Fares

These five cruise lines offer basic cruise fares that cover accommodations and some amenities – and you can typically find special pricing and promotional deals throughout the year.

With the optional packages, guests can create a mostly all-inclusive voyage with bundles of add-on extras, such as shore excursions, beverage packages, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, gratuities or shipboard credit to cover miscellaneous personal expenses such as spa treatments or a bottle of wine for a special celebration.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania's eight small luxury ships carry between 648 and 1,238 guests. The line's newest ship – Vista , the first Allura Class vessel – debuted in Rome in May 2023. The beautifully appointed vessel features four new dining concepts, spacious standard staterooms at 290-plus square feet in size, new Concierge Level veranda accommodations for solo cruisers, an elevated mixology program and more.

Oceania's culinary program is touted by the line as "The Finest Cuisine at Sea" under the tutelage of Jacques Pépin, executive culinary director and master chef. Complimentary specialty dining is included in cruise fares on Oceania sailings. Pricing also covers airfare, still and sparkling water, specialty teas and coffees, soft drinks, and Wi-Fi on the ship.

Oceania's "OLife Choice" package provides additional value to your cruise with 2-for-1 cruise fares, free round-trip airfare and airport transfers – plus one free amenity you'll choose out of eight complimentary shore excursions, a beverage package or up to $800 in shipboard credit.

Explore Oceania Cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity offers special rates and packages throughout the year that save money over a la carte pricing – and elevate your onboard experience to be more inclusive. You'll be able to access the best deal on the added perks if you book the upgraded package before you sail, saving up to 40 to 50 percent of the actual cost.

The line's "All-Included" package bundles the most popular add-ons for cruisers: a standard beverage package for alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, unlimited basic Wi-Fi, and gratuities for the staff and crew. Pricing depends on the stateroom or suite category and sailing.

There are other options when booking a cruise with Celebrity to create a more upscale and all-inclusive experience. Guests staying in all-suite The Retreat have exclusive access to a sundeck (on select ships), a lounge and Luminae – a private restaurant that features Global Culinary Ambassador Daniel Boulud at the helm. Guests of The Retreat booking the "All-Included" package receive a premium beverage package, premium unlimited Wi-Fi, gratuities and an onboard credit.

If you book AquaClass accommodations, you'll also have access to complimentary amenities and perks, such as unlimited access to the SEA Thermal Suite, discounts on spa treatment packages and complimentary fitness classes. In addition, you'll also find a bottle of sparkling wine upon arrival (by request) and two bottles of water refreshed daily in your room. AquaClass guests also have exclusive access to the restaurant Blu. You can add the "All-Included" package to your booking, which will include the Classic Drinks Package, basic Wi-Fi and gratuities.

Passengers who want to book this "All-Included" package and are sharing a stateroom or suite will need to book the same package.

Compare Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian also offers promotional fares and special deals throughout the year that feature similar amenities and perks to what you'll find on an all-inclusive cruise. The "Free at Sea" deal bundles discounts on the cruise, free specialty dining, unlimited open bar privileges, shore excursion credits, savings on Wi-Fi access, discounts on the third and fourth guests in the stateroom, and a 2-for-1 deal on airfare.

"Free at Sea Plus" takes the package up a notch with a more comprehensive beverage selection, including top-shelf cocktails, Champagne by the glass, bottles of select premium wines at dinner and signature Starbucks coffee drinks. This option also includes unlimited Wi-Fi, additional nights of specialty dining and shore excursions.

Prices for both packages on Norwegian Cruise Line will depend on the dates, length and destination of the cruise.

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line cruise on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line's "Have It All Premium Cruise Package" is available to book for cruises six days or longer, excluding the line's Grand Voyages. The benefits vary depending on the length of the trip but include credits for shore excursions; the Signature Beverage Package; specialty dining at Tamarind, Pinnacle Grill or Canaletto; and a Wi-Fi Surf Package. The cost starts at $50 a day per person. 

An early booking bonus for this package includes an Elite Beverage Package upgrade, covered crew appreciation charges and a premium Wi-Fi upgrade. Holland America has other special promotions throughout the year. One of these is an early booking bonus of up to $400 in onboard credit per stateroom for Mariner Society members.

Find Holland America deals on GoToSea.

Princess Cruises

"Princess Plus" and "Princess Premier" packages offer guests two options to upgrade their onboard amenities from the standard Princess Cruises plan, which covers accommodations, dining, entertainment and the line's signature MedallionClass experience.

"Princess Plus" perks include a beverage package with drinks up to $15 each, Wi-Fi on one device per guest, gratuities for the crew, two premium desserts a day (think hazelnut gelato at the onboard gelateria), two fitness classes per cruise (such as Pure Barre or YogaSix) and unlimited trips to the juice bar. The cost is $60 per day per person for this middle-tier package.

Additional benefits of the highest-tier option, at $80 per person per day, include the Premier Beverage Package, which covers drinks up to $20 each, and Wi-Fi for up to four devices per guest. Other features of the "Princess Premier" upgrade are two specialty meals, a photo package, Princess Prizes, reserved theater seating and a Medallion accessory.

Explore Princess Cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed to destinations around the globe on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts and traditional masted sailing ships. Most recently, she traveled on a small expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

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• Cruise vs. All-Inclusive Resort: Which One Is Right for You?

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