Australia Cruises

Australia cruises showcase rainforests in the north and stunning beaches and cosmopolitan cities in the south, which give way to a vast interior and huge ranches. New Zealand boasts towering mountains and verdant valleys, washed by tumbling waterfalls. Certain cruises extend out into the sparkling Pacific to reveal idyllic South Seas islands.

Akaroa, meaning long harbour in Maori, certainly lives up to its name. Set on a beautiful, sheltered harbour, Akaroa is now a popular resort. Seek out the best spots for dolphin watching with tours from the harbour or relax on land at one of the welcoming bars or restaurants. Alternatively take a tour to Christchurch.

Australia cruises showcase rainforests in the north and stunning beaches and cosmopolitan cities in the south, which give way to a vast interior and huge ranches. New Zealand boasts towering mountains and verdant valleys, washed by tumbling waterfalls. Certain cruises extend out into the sparkling Pacific to reveal idyllic South Seas islands.

Ashmore Reef Marine Park is a pristine paradise, home to vibrant coral reefs, rare sea snakes, dugongs, and nesting turtles. A must-see destination for nature lovers and marine enthusiasts.

Prepare for a breathtaking vision of South Pacific beauty. The dark green silhouette of Mount Otemanu presides proudly over flawless beaches, all set in a lagoon swirled with luminous shades of green and blue. Stand in crystalline waters where graceful manta rays flock, or browse local stores for the region's famed black pearls.

The Brisbane River meanders through the heart of the city. Elegant Georgian buildings of native sandstone stand next to sleek glass towers. Brisbane is also a superbly landscaped city with jacarandas, flame trees, and bougainvilleas thriving in its semi-tropical climate. Come face to face with koalas, kangaroos and wombats on tours from this laid-back city.

Perched on the Northwest edge of Western Australia, Broome was once an isolated gem, reachable only by a rugged dirt road until the mid-1980s. A sun-soaked coastal town where outback meets ocean, Broome is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Famous for its pearling heritage and stunning Cable Beach sunsets, Broome also offers camel rides, vibrant markets, and a glimpse into Aboriginal culture. It’s the perfect tropical escape and a gateway to the wild Kimberley region.

Sitting on a beautiful stretch of Tasmania's North West Coast, port city Burnie may have industrial roots, but it has since reinvented itself as a creative enclave and the state's fourth largest city. With about 40 per cent of Tasmania designated as a World Heritage Area of national parks and reserves, you can enjoy a wide range of wilderness experiences available from this laid-back market town.

Long beaches and rocky outcrops define the shore, while venturing inland reveals over 100 premium wineries. The area is also known for its dramatic limestone caves whose incredible formations are tied to Aboriginal mythology. Margaret River is a beautiful natural setting in Australia’s southwest corner. Busselton has grown into one of Western Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. Circled by swathes of wetlands and bordered by tranquil Geographe Bay, where scores of humpbacks and blue whales seek respite on their migrations, Busselton’s white beaches and calm blue waters offer visitors unparalleled swimming. Rocky outcrops and tall forests rise from the water’s edge, while great granite buttresses shield the beaches from the Indian Ocean’s swell. In the heart of the town, Busselton’s beloved jetty stretches out over the turquoise surf, its observatory offering breath-taking views of the reef below.

Laid-back Cairns is your gateway to the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, a spectacular location for snorkelling and diving among kaleidoscopic marine life and coral. Follow Foreshore Promenade around the lagoon filled with pleasure craft or take a scenic railway ride to the tranquil mountain village of Kuranda.

Akaroa means ‘long harbour’ in Maori, and the town certainly lives up to its name. Overlooked by a dormant volcano on its thin peninsula, the sheltered Akaroa is a popular resort with stunning views. Akaroa harbour provides boat tours that feature the South Island’s diminutive dolphins – and the town has several welcoming bars or restaurants. Christchurch is 52 miles away by road.

Nestling on the lower slopes of a steep sided extinct volcano, the historic port town of Lyttelton is overflowing with trendy cafés and quirky shops. It’s also the gateway to nearby Christchurch.

Tropical and multicultural, Darwin is the vibrant capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and a gateway to the wild Top End. Known for its rich Aboriginal heritage, lively markets, and dramatic sunsets over the Timor Sea, Darwin offers a mix of adventure and culture. From crocodile encounters to nearby national parks like Kakadu, it’s a dynamic port city with a laid-back charm.

Dunedin is the second-largest city in the South of New Zealand and the principal of the region of Otago. In 1865 it became one of the largest cities for the influx of new settlers from Ireland, Italy, France, Germany and China due to the discovery of Gold. Sites not to be missed are the outstanding Dunedin Railway Station and a ride on the world famous Taieri Gorge Train.

This picturesque town near the border of New South Wales and Victoria was the site of a thriving shore-based whaling industry that depended on the cooperation of orcas, which herded baleen whales into Twofold Bay. Learn about it at the small but informative Killer Whale Museum.

Gateway to the world-famous Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth is a tropical paradise on Western Australia’s Coral Coast. This laid-back town is a dream for ocean lovers, offering snorkelling with manta rays, seasonal whale shark swims, and vibrant coral gardens just steps from the shore. With its unique blend of reef and outback, Exmouth promises unforgettable adventures in and out of the water.

As you sail through parts of Fiordland National Park, you will appreciate how it has mesmerised and intrigued travellers and tourists over the centuries, with its graceful and mostly untouched beauty. Amongst and beyond the glacier-carved fjords of Doubtful and Milford Sound, stand impressive snow-capped peaks, luscious green slopes and forests that are home to unusual and unique species.

Short overview here about Fremantle.

Wiggingarra Butt Butt (Freshwater Cove) offers a unique natural oasis, with fresh water flowing year-round. Managed in partnership with the Damibmangari traditional owners, this area is rich in cultural heritage and surrounded by stunning marine landscapes.

Wave goodbye to any preconceptions you may have of Australia, as you say hello to wonderful Hobart on the southeastern coast of Tasmania. Revel in the capital's splendid heritage, scenery and culture. Hobart has a distinctly European look and feel, and a unique local character. Capital of Australia’s Island State, with Mt. Wellington as its backdrop, it has plenty to offer the adventurous and the inquisitive.

The Hunter River winds through Kimberley’s ancient landscape, with towering cliffs, lush mangroves, and crystal-clear waters. Spot saltwater crocodiles basking on the banks and vibrant birds soaring above in this stunning, wild paradise.

There's far more than simply Kangaroos waiting to welcome you onto the rustically beautiful Kangaroo Island. The third largest Australian island boasts incredible natural beauty, unspoiled beaches and a truly unique opportunity to see an amazing range of animals in their local habitat. As you would expect there is a healthy kangaroo population, along with wallabies, koalas, seals, sea lions, and goannas, a type of lizard that grows up to a metre long.

Remote and breathtaking, Kuri Bay lies deep in the Kimberley region and is renowned as the birthplace of Australia’s cultured pearl industry. Surrounded by rugged cliffs, turquoise waters, and untouched wilderness, this secluded bay offers a rare glimpse into Australia’s pearling legacy and natural splendour. A true off-the-beaten-path gem for adventurers and nature lovers.

The Lacepede Islands, a remote paradise in the Kimberley, are perfect for nature lovers. With rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, they’re home to nesting seabirds and vibrant marine life, offering incredible wildlife viewing and snorkeling in an untouched, pristine environment.

There is a chance to capture the essence of Fijian life here. Past the avenue of Royal Palms along the main street, the ornate Sikh and Krishna temples and mosques give away the presence of a large Indian population.

Margaret River is a beautiful natural setting in Australia’s southwest corner that has inspired many artists here over the years. Or perhaps they just came for the seemingly endless fertile vineyards. Long beaches and rocky outcrops define Margaret River’s shores, while over 100 premium wineries lie inland. Don’t miss the dramatic limestone caves that link to Aboriginal mythology.

Originally part of New South Wales, Victoria became a colony in its own right in 1851. The discovery of gold and the development of agriculture propelled Melbourne’s rise to prominence and prosperity. Melbourne is a green and welcoming city, teeming with cultural institutions as well as cafés, bars and restaurants serving a spectrum of international cuisine. Melbourne is also an event city, home to the Australian Open Tennis, the Melbourne Cup and numerous other sporting occasions. Anyone who gets to know the city finds it has a kaleidoscopic character. Signs of Melbourne’s heritage are everywhere, and yet the city bears the glass and steel hallmarks of a modern metropolis. A visit here guarantees myriad experiences, most within easy walking range, and others a short ride aboard one of the historic trams that criss-cross the city.

Spectacular scenery awaits as you cruise by Milford Sound in the south-west tip of New Zealand.

Montgomery Reef is a must-visit destination, where dramatic tides reveal lagoons, sandstone islets, and stunning waterfalls cascading through the reef. This breathtaking natural wonder offers an unforgettable adventure on the Kimberley coast.

Napier is New Zealand's art deco city. Following a massive earthquake in 1931, large swathes were reconstructed in the flamboyant style of the day with a superb collection of Deco, Spanish mission, and classical Revival buildings.

Newcastle is the second oldest city in Australia and welcomes you with a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, providing the incredible beaches and surfing culture that Australia is famous for. Primarily known in the past for its coal exportation this reputation is now being quickly overtaken by its eclectic and pioneering arts scene.

In nearly 250 years since Captain Cook named then the Friendly Islands, little has changed. It remains the last kingdom in the South Pacific, colourful coral gardens are still untouched and the pleasure of sipping cool coconut milk fresh from the shell is as strong as it ever was.

Nestled upon the picturesque Dudley Peninsula, Penneshaw stands as Kangaroo Island's second-largest town and gateway to a wildlife realm renowned for its colony of adorable and diminutive Little Blue Penguins. Follow the road less traveled and discover unique wildlife, mouth-watering food and wine, breathtaking scenery and a laid-back lifestyle.

Perth’s explosive growth in recent decades has engulfed the old historic port of Fremantle. Eighty-percent of Western Australia’s population lives in and around Perth. This bustling port, known as “Freo” to the locals, sits on the Indian Ocean and offers a romantic, artsy ambiance to residents and visitors alike. The city’s urban sprawl is awash with fusion flavours, fashionable boutiques and innovative museums but Western Australia’s capital impresses in other ways too. Perth is famously isolated; a cosmopolitan drop in the ocean that is Australia’s outback. Stroll along the banks of the Swan River where you’ll find countless spots to sit and watch kayakers paddle by.

No call at Port Arthur is complete without visiting its once-feared and ever-infamous prison colony, a UNESCO historical site. Explore the fascinating ruins, once booming dockyard and restored houses.

Port Vila is the capital of Vanuatu, a nation comprising around 80 islands in the South Pacific. The capital is found on Efate island, which is home to the majority of the country’s residents. With plenty of rambling streets, cafes, and beaches to explore, Port Vila is a compact yet energetic port town.

Steeped in heritage and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Portland, Australia blends rich maritime history with rugged natural beauty. Located along the scenic Great Ocean Road, this charming coastal town offers an unparalleled mix of nature, history, and maritime allure. From the playful antics of migrating Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales to the art installations and sculptures that line the picturesque foreshore, Portland is a uniquely vibrant escape where history meets the wild southern ocean.

Rabaul means mangrove'. The Germans built Rabaul on a mangrove swamp when New Britain was a German colony. Papua New Guinea showcases extraordinary wildernesses, a land of tiny tree kangaroos and giant butterflies.

Delve into the stories of its First Nations heritage and marvel at the ancient rock art found throughout Talbot Bay, where extreme natural wonders await exploration. Explore its rocky shores and steep cliffs, comprised of deformed quartz sandstones blended with volcanic rock.

Suva, Fiji’s vibrant capital, offers a laid-back charm with lush mangroves, colonial-meets-modern architecture, and a multicultural vibe. Explore the Fiji Museum in Thurston Gardens, bustling markets like Suva Municipal Market, and scenic spots like Colo-i-Suva Forest Park. With year-round tropical warmth and welcoming locals, Suva is a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty—an experience far from the typical city life.

Australia’s oldest and largest city was born in 1788 with the arrival of the "First Fleet" that transported 760 British convicts. Gold and sheep breeding propelled Sydney’s development; today it is the largest port in the entire South Pacific. Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”.

Talbot Bay, home to the stunning Horizontal Waterfalls, is a must-see cruise destination. The powerful tidal flow creates a unique cascade effect, where water levels differ by meters, making this natural wonder a truly unforgettable sight.

Explore Townsville, the vibrant gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, offering stunning coastal views, rich history and a thriving arts scene.

Vansittart Bay, a remote bay known for its Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art, offers a unique glimpse into Aboriginal culture. Explore the ancient paintings on Jar Island, created by birds according to legend, while enjoying the scenic beauty of the bay and its beaches.

New Zealand's capital and cruise port Wellington, is blessed with a wonderful setting, overlooking a glittering harbour filled with bobbing sailing boats. Behind the gleaming modern skyscrapers of its centre, you will find the city's history well preserved in some outstanding old buildings. Visit the second-largest wooden building in the world, the old Government Building which was built in 1876. To see New Zealand's story brought most vividly to life, visit the Te Papa Museum, a multi-level extravaganza of hands-on learning where you can explore a Maori meeting house, take a virtual reality bungee jump or even experience an earthquake.

Sandwiched between the coast of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef, the Whitsunday’s beaches rank among the best in the world. In Airlie Beach itself, you’ll find a laid-back coastal town with surf boutiques, charming souvenir markets and inviting bistros serving a plethora of seafood.

With such a wonderfully evocative name, it's little wonder to find a connection with Yorkshire; that capital of eccentric place names. Yorkeys Knob sits on a headland north of Cairns, in an area of stunning natural beauty, situated as it is on the glorious Half Moon Bay and within touching distance of the Great Barrier Reef.