Australian Cruise Season 2024: What's New and Exciting

The Australian cruise season is setting sail, and 2024 promises to be the most exciting year yet.

Discover the latest ships, itineraries, and onboard experiences launching in the Australian cruise season 2024. Get ready for new adventures at sea!

Cruising in Australia has become the cornerstone of the country's tourism industry. Typically, over the warmer months, from October to April, travellers explore Australia's diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks, all from the comfort and convenience of a cruise ship.

Cruising has become popular in recent years, offering a seamless travel experience combining luxury accommodation, gourmet dining, and immersive shore excursions. From the natural wonders of the rainforests and Great Barrier Reef to the historical and rugged coasts of Tasmania and the vibrant cities of Sydney and Melbourne, cruising provides an unparalleled way to experience the vastness and variety of Australia's coastline.

The Australian 2024 cruise season will be the most exciting yet, with more than 60 ships equipped with fresh itineraries that delve deeper into Australia's hidden gems.

This year presents a unique opportunity for travellers to embark on an unforgettable cruise adventure as cruise lines elevate the onboard experience with enhanced entertainment, wellness facilities, and sustainable technologies.

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Highlighting New Vessels

Discover how these new developments make 2024 the perfect time to set sail and explore Australia's breath-taking destinations like never before.

Princess Cruises' Crown Princess: Debuting down-under in 2024, the Crown Princess will complete her relocation cruise from San Francisco to Sydney, arriving in late October before setting off for a 28-day round-Australia cruise, returning to Sydney in late November. This year, offering a wealth of eateries and restaurants, MedallionNet Wi-Fi, Movies Under the Stars, and Deal or No Deal, the cruise is a treat with Broadway-style, original music productions and featured guest entertainers.

Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas: While not brand new, Quantum of the Seas will make its inaugural deployment to Australia in 2024, bringing with it revolutionary features like the North Star observation capsule and the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, Laser Tag arena, and the Royal Escape Room. Ovation of the Seas offers a rock-climbing wall, Ripcord by iFly, and a FlowRider surf simulator.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Norwegian Sun: This ship debuted in December 2024 on its way from Papeete, calling into Brisbane on 17 December before arriving in Melbourne on the 20th, just in time for its Christmas and New Year cruise to New Zealand. This 14-day New Year-themed cruise takes a Southern Explorer route via Portland, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, and Hobart before heading to New Zealand's beautiful Fiordland National Park. This cruise arrives in Auckland on 4 January after cruising the east coast of New Zealand.

Expanded Cruise Lines

The Australian market is attracting international cruise lines:

MSC Cruises: Making a stronger push into Australia, MSC offers the world-renowned restaurant Eataly, which expresses its European heritage through its food, European flair, and family-friendly atmosphere.

Viking Cruises: Debuting the Viking Venus in December 2024 will bring their adult-only ship for a cruise from Sydney to Auckland, with unique offerings like wellness programs and less than 1000 guests for personalised attention.

Silversea Expeditions: Silversea Cruises offers boutique cruising on the Silver Muse and Silver Nova ships, which arrive in Australia from early November until mid-February. With only 575 – 728 passenger sizes, you will receive plenty of attention from the 556 crew, who work tirelessly to ensure your voyage is exceptional.     

Returning for another season:

Celebrity Edge   

  Disney Cruises - AU NZ  

   Holland America's Westerdam 

 MSC Magnifica    

 Royal Princess and Diamond Princess

Cruise Line Changes After 2024 Season

Year-round sailing: From April 2025, Carnival Cruises Carnival Splendor, the rebranded Carnival Adventure, and Carnival Encounter will sail out of Sydney and Brisbane.

It was announced in June 2024 that, due to operational changes and after 90 years of service, the P&O Cruises Australia brand would be phased out, with operations transferring to Carnival Cruise Lines from April 2025. 

• Pacific Explorer: The last cruise will leave Fremantle on 7 February 2025 for Singapore before being decommissioned.
• Pacific Adventure and Pacific Encounter will be rebranded, refitted with new technology, and operated by Carnival Cruise Line from April 2025. Several cruises in March 2025 have been cancelled. However, operations appear to resume in early April 2025 as Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter.

Exciting New Itineraries

National Geographic Orion offers one-way 10-18-day expeditions, mostly sailing from Auckland, New Zealand. It calls into Brisbane several times during the 2024 cruise season before heading to Port Denarau-Nadi in early January 2025. Rebranding to National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions in 2025, travellers will continue to learn about the environment, conservation, and natural wonders on these dedicated research voyages.

Cunard Queen Elizabeth: The six-day Great Australian Culinary Voyage in February entices participation and savours wonders presented by expert chefs and connoisseurs. Top names include Julie Goodwin, Nornie Bero, Katie Spain, Matt Moran, and Darren Purchese.

Unexplored Destinations

Eden, New South Wales, Australia

Cruise lines are adding new and less-travelled ports to their itineraries:

• Eden, New South Wales: A quaint coastal town known for its whaling history and stunning beaches.
• Exmouth, Western Australia: Gateway to the Ningaloo Reef, offering snorkelling experiences comparable to the Great Barrier Reef but with fewer crowds.

Onboard Experiences

Culinary Delights

• Celebrity Partnerships: Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Seas is back to celebrate another year with Australian wines by Ponting Wines. This itinerary for lovers of food and wine includes tastings, tours, and teachings by Ben Riggs, Ponting Wines' award-winning winemaker.
• Princess Cruises: Upgrades to the Premier Princess cruise packages apply from 1 September. The package offers internet access, unlimited drinks, and specialty restaurants for every night of your cruise for AUD$100 per person per day. Suppose you have time between savouring the fabulous drinks and food. In that case, you also get reserved seating in the Princess Theatre and unlimited premium fitness classes, including YogaSix, StretchLab, Stride, Club Pilates, Pure Barre, and CycleBar.

Entertainment Upgrades

• Broadway-Style Shows: Royal Caribbean presents full-length productions like We Will Rock You and Grease. Princess also offers a wealth of Broadway-type Princess entertainment.
• Live Concerts: Onboard theatres host performances by international artists and bands.
• Immersive Activities: Interactive game shows, escape rooms, and themed parties keep guests engaged throughout the voyage.

Wellness and Relaxation

• Upgraded Spas: Ships offer expansive spa facilities like hot stone massages, aromatherapy, and acupuncture.
• Fitness Programs: Group classes such as Pilates, spin, and Zumba are available, along with personal training sessions.
• Mindfulness Workshops: Activities like guided meditation and wellness seminars help passengers unwind and rejuvenate.

Recommendations for Travelers

Check out our article ...

The Golden Rule of Packing: Travel Essentials for Your Australian Adventure

Clothing

Travel: Getting to/from the cruise terminal can be a big journey for many of us. Whether you are flying into the country or traveling interstate as we often do, the following items have been our go-to favourites. Long-distance travel items for your comfort and also pack well. 

• Product Idea: Compression Socks (20-30 mmHg) for Women and Men, fit for Running, Flight, Travel.
• Product Idea: Helly Hansen Women's Crew Midlayer Jacket
• Product Idea: Outdoor Ventures Softshell Jacket Ladies Rain Jacket Functional Rain Coat Windbreaker Waterproof Hiking Jacket Breathable Outdoor Jacket with Hood
• Product Idea: G4Free Wide Leg Pants for Women

Light Summer Clothing: Pack breathable fabrics like cotton and linen for warm days, as well as hiking and outdoor activity gear. The weather can vary greatly depending on where you are cruising. Generally, dressing in layers is the best option to account for changing weather; however, the closer to the equator you go, the more important it is to have cool cotton or linen.

• Product Idea: Runcati Womens Button Down V Neck
• Product Idea: Womens Plus Size Linen Button Down Shirts Short Sleeve
• Product Idea: Wrangler Authentics Women's Denim Jacket
• Product Idea: R.Vivimos Women's Summer Midi Dress Vintage Floral Print Beach Boho Casual Long Sleeves
• Product Idea: Women Beach Floral Tshirt Sundress Casual Pockets Boho Tank Dress
• Product Idea: NAUTICA Women's Easy Classic Short Sleeve Stretch Cotton Polo Dress
• Product Idea: ZESICA Women's Summer Casual Flutter Short Sleeve
• Product Idea: R.Vivimos Womens Summer Cotton Short Sleeve V Neck Floral Print Casual Bohemian Midi Dresses
• Product Idea: Womens Cotton Adjustable Casual Summer Bib Overalls Jumpsuit
• Product Idea: Women's High Waist Pants Drawstring Capri Pants
• Product Idea: Women's Classic Straight-Fit Stretch Twill Chino Pant
• Product Idea: Lee Women's Relaxed Fit Avey Knit Waist Cargo Bermuda Short

My go to items for hiking:

• Product Idea: Avoogue Raincoat Women Lightweight Waterproof Rain Jackets Packable Outdoor Hooded Windbreaker
• Product Idea: G4Free Women's UPF 50+ UV Long Sleeve Sun Shirt Outdoor Hiking Quick Dry Lightweight
• Product Idea: Patagonia Women's W's Better Sweater JKT Jacket
• Product Idea: PATAGONIA Women's W's Granite Crest Rain Jacket
• Product Idea: Darn Tough Vermont Hiking Sock Merino Wool
• Product Idea: Women's 10" Hiking Cargo Shorts Stretch Golf Active Long Shorts Quick Dry
• Product Idea: Promover Women's Activewear Trousers Straight Wide Leg with Pockets
• Product Idea: Salomon Women's X Ultra Pioneer GTX Hiking Shoe. Great for all day wear, lightweight, comfort, Gore-Tex. I have the boot version for extra support.

and for him... easy slip to on/off at the airport, comfortable enough to wear all day travelling:

• Product Idea: Salomon Men's XA PRO 3D Trail Running and Hiking Shoe

Swim and sand: Bring multiple swimsuits for pool time and beach excursions. Reef shoes, comfortable footwear and poolside slip-ons.

• Product Idea: JOTO Water Shoes for Women Men Kids, Barefoot Quick-Dry Aqua Water Socks Slip-on
• Product Idea: Arch support Flip Flops, Thongs, Jandles - recommended by my Physiotherapist
• Product Idea: Crocs, great for wearing to the pool. Get them for the kids and yourself
• Product Idea: Non Slip Grip Ankle Socks, great for the gym or when hanging out in your cabin

Evening Attire: Include smart-casual outfits for dining and formal wear if attending gala nights (suits for men, cocktail dresses for women). 

Casual dining:

• Product Idea: Women's Summer Short Sleeve V-Neck Dress with Pockets
• Product Idea: Women's Classic V-Neck Knee Length Short Sleeve Faux Wrap Dress
• Product Idea: Wide Leg Pants for Women High Waisted Palazzo Pants

Formal dining:

• Product Idea: Women Short 1950s Retro Vintage Cocktail Party Swing Dress
• Product Idea: Women's Midi Cocktail Tea Dress A-Line Swing V-Neck 3/4 Sleeve
• Product Idea: Cocktail, Lace Chiffon Evening Dress
• Product Idea: Women's Cocktail Dress
• Product Idea: Women's Split Bodycon Evening Cocktail Long Dress

Light Jacket or Shawl: Essential for cooler evenings on deck or air-conditioned venues.

• Product Idea: Faux Fur Wrap Women's Shrug
• Product Idea: Womens Shawl Wrap Scarf Pashmina Cashmere
• Product Idea: Summer Cotton Blend Crinkle Vintage Soft Scarf Unisex
• Product Idea: Natural Scarf/Shawl/Wrap Linen For Men And Women
• Product Idea: Merino Wool Tartan Knitted Scarf for Men

Equipment and Gadgets

Sunscreen and Sunglasses: High SPF sunscreen, hats, and UV-protective sunglasses are essential for the Australian seasonal conditions. I have fair skin, and my dermatologist has stated research indicates the La Roche-Posay product below is proven to provide 50+ sunblock, as promoted on the packaging. I tested the product while cruising and traveling for 72 days in 2023 across Australia, New Zealand, Samoa, Papeete, Hawaii, San Francisco, Vancouver, and Alaska. During my travels, I used the Clinique and La Roche-Posay, along with my Tilley hat and sunglasses.

• Product Idea: Anthelios UVmune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF 50 Plus by La Roche-Posay Sunscreen
• Product Idea: Clinique Moisture Surge 100-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator Moisturizer
• Product Idea: Tilley sunhat UPF 50+, broad brim, air flow, water-repellent 
• Product Idea: Polaroid Sunglasses Polarized
• Product Idea: HAWKERS Sunglasses AUDREY for Men and Women
• Product Idea: Retro Oval Sunglasses Classic Shades UV400 Protection

Camera or Smartphone:

Capture memories with a quality camera and consider waterproof options for aquatic activities. The best camera is the one you have close at hand. The hero image for this article was taken with an Apple iPhone resting on the ship's railing as we sailed out of Sydney! But I'm sure  Samsung will give Apple a run for its money with its new Galaxy! Ensure you have a pop socket to minimize the risk of dropping your smartphone overboard. It happens!!

I use various tripods for my camera, Go Pro, and smartphone, with my Apple watch or tripod remote, especially when taking nighttime images. If taking photos with your phone, remember the best camera lens to use is the back one. You already have the perfect camera in your hand; if not, hunt around for a great deal with the upcoming sales. I am partial to the Olympus Micro 4/3 due to the weight and usability. It is also good to have binoculars to see things from the ship, especially when coming into port or cruising the coastline.

Cameras

• Canon EOS DSLR 
• Olympus OM-D Micro Four Thirds compact mirrorless camera
• Olympus OM-1 Micro Four Thirds compact mirrorless camera

• OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 Red Digital Camera, 12MP, Waterproof, Shockproof, Underwater and Macro Shooting, 4K Video, 4X-Wide-Angle Zoom

• Olympus 10x42 EXPS I Binocular

Lens

• Canon EFS 18-55mm
• Tamron 16-300mm f3.5 - 6.3

• Olympus 12-40mm F2.8 PRO II

• Olympus 40-150mm f2.8 Pro
• Olympus 75-300mm f4.8 - 6.7

Storage

• MicroSDXC 512GB UHS-1 SanDisk Extreme Pro - two of these per camera, especially if you're taking videos
• Western Digital 2TB hard drives x 2 for all the photos you will take

Accessories

• Olympus Electronic Flash FL-600R
• Olympus Lithium-ion batteries x 2, make sure you have a backup out on location
• HOYA UV(C) Filters CIR-PL for each lens
• Velbon Tripod

• NEEWER Selfie Light with Front & Back Phone Clip

• NEEWER Camera Tripod with Remote, Mini Flexible Tripod Stand with Action Camera Mount Adapter - great for uneven surfaces

• EUCOS Metal Tripod Stand with Remote for Phone or Lightweight Camera 

• Vanguard camera backpack

• DJI Osmo Mobile 6 Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphones - awesome new addition to the kit! 

Waterproof Phone Case: Protect your devices during beach visits and poolside lounging.

• Product Idea: Lamicall Waterproof Phone Pouch Case

Travel Adapters: Australia uses Type I plugs; bring an adapter to charge your electronics.

• Product Idea: LENCENT Universal Travel Adapter, International Charger with 3 USB Ports and Type-C PD Fast Charging Adaptor

Portable Charger: A full day of shore excursions will see your devices powered, especially if you are taking lots of photos with your phone.

• Product Idea: INIU 140W Power Bank, 27000mAh High Capacity Laptop Portable Charger, USB C in&Out 

Where to Stay Before and After the Cruise

Sydney

• Shangri-La Hotel Sydney: This hotel offers luxurious accommodations with views of the Sydney Opera House and ships coming and going. It is located in The Rocks district near the cruise terminal.

• The Sebel Quay West Suites Sydney - watch the ships come in

• The Russell Boutique Hotel is a charming, historic hotel offering personalized service, a short walk from Circular Quay.

Melbourne

• The Langham Melbourne: Five-star hotel overlooks the Yarra River and is close to boutique shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

• Crown Towers Melbourne: Part of the Crown Entertainment Complex, offering luxury rooms, a spa, and high-end restaurants near Port Melbourne.

Transportation to Embarkation Points

Sydney

• Airport Link Train: Take the train from Sydney Airport to Circular Quay Station; the cruise terminals are a short walk away.
• Taxis and Uber Services are available at the airport and around the city. They are a convenient option if you are traveling with luggage.
• Shuttle Services: Some hotels offer shuttle buses to the cruise terminals; check with your accommodation.

Melbourne

• SkyBus: Provides a service from Melbourne Airport to Southern Cross Station in the city.
• Trams and Taxis: Take a tram (routes 109 or 96) or a taxi to Port Melbourne's Station Pier from Southern Cross Station.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Uber and other services operate throughout Melbourne, offering door-to-door convenience.

Additional Tips

• Arrive Early: We recommend arriving a day before your cruise to allow for possible delays at the airport or getting to the port. This will enable you to explore the embarkation city.
• Luggage Handling: For smooth handling at the port, ensure your luggage is clearly tagged with your ship's name and cabin number.
• Travel Documents: During embarkation, make sure you have your passport, any applicable visas, and cruise tickets on hand.

The 2024 Australian cruise season is poised to offer travellers an unparalleled experience filled with innovation, adventure, and luxury.

With the introduction of ground-breaking ships like Princess Cruises' Crown Princess and Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas, guests can indulge in state-of-the-art amenities such as virtual reality entertainment, robotic bartenders, and eco-friendly technologies.

Now is the ideal time to book your Australian cruise and be among the first to enjoy these exciting new offerings. Early booking secures your spot on these highly anticipated voyages. It provides access to exclusive deals and the best cabin selections. Take the chance to create unforgettable memories exploring Australia's stunning coastlines and vibrant cultures aboard the most advanced cruise ships to date.

We'd love to hear from you!

Share your favourite cruise experiences or ask any questions via Facebook or Instagram. Your insights and inquiries can help fellow travellers make the most of the 2024 cruise season.

Let's embark on this exciting journey together!