Cruises from Australia: Top Departure Ports You Need to Visit

Cruise ship sailing from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, New Jersey at sunset, with the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan skyline in the background.

Cruises from Australia: Top Departure Ports You Need to Visit

Cruise ship sailing from Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, New Jersey at sunset, with the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan skyline in the background.

Staff

Australia is one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for cruises. Cruising is an excellent way to explore Australia’s onshore and offshore beauty. Whether you’re seeking sun or a remote adventure, there is an Australian cruise for you.

Before you look into specific cruise companies, explore different departure ports. Here are the top six dazzling cruise ports that should be on your radar when planning a cruise to explore Australia and beyond:

  1. Brisbane

Brisbane lives up to its sunny potential and is one of Australia’s most charming cities. It is bursting with culture, with a special focus on outdoor activities and attractions. The Brisbane International Cruise Terminal is a modern, two-story cruise terminal building with ample indoor and outdoor areas.

There’s no shortage of fun activities you can do on a cruise from Brisbane. For instance, you can see the sights and relax on the beaches of the Gold Coast or enjoy the ultimate wine experience in Sirromet Winery. 

A trip along the stunning Brisbane River will take you through the city and suburbs. You can look at Queenslander-style homes lining the coastline. 

  1. Sydney

Sydney is another one of Australia’s largest cities and a popular cruise port. It places you right at the heart of Australia’s most iconic harbour city. 

The two must-visit destinations in Sydney are the Opera House and the Harbor Bridge. Moreover, on the harbour’s edge, you have the beautiful Royal Botanic Garden and Taronga Zoo. 

Sydney cruises are especially popular among families travelling with children. There are lots of child-friendly attractions, promising a memorable experience. 

  1. Airlie Beach

Want to explore Australia’s stunning beaches? A cruise from Airlie Beach is an excellent choice. Here are some activities you should look into:

  • See the Great Barrier Reef from above
  • Take a wild ride on a jet boat
  • Jetski around the Whitsunday Islands
  • Skydive
  • Wander through the Airlie Beach markets

The exciting activities of Airlie Beach make it the perfect destination for groups. 

  1. Kimberley Coast

Looking for the ultimate scenic cruising experience? Kimberley Coast in Western Australia is your best option. The port has endless tracks of wilderness and red cliffs. 

You can also explore ancient rock art and hundreds of small islands and reefs. Bays and waterfalls are also incredibly beautiful. 

  1. Hobart

The Tasmanian Capital of Hobart is another Australian destination worth exploring. It is a small but charming departing port that offers a mix of ancient history, vibrant culture, and modern landscapes.

Hobart is Australia’s second-oldest city, so you can expect to visit colonial-era cottages and spots.

Historic Salamanca Place and Constitution Dock are the top two attractions near the Hobart cruise terminal. If you’re an art enthusiast, don’t forget to visit MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). 

  1. Adelaide 

The capital of South Australia, Adelaide, is another cruise port that must be added to your travel to-do list. The city is best known for its wine-growing regions, including the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale.

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