If you’re planning a vacation in Australia, you might be wondering if there are any cruise ships that operate in the country. The good news is that there are plenty of options for travelers who want to explore Australia’s coastline and nearby islands by sea.
Major Cruise Lines Operating in Australia
A number of major cruise lines offer itineraries that include stops in Australian ports. These include:
- Royal Caribbean International: This popular cruise line operates multiple ships that visit Australian ports, including the Ovation of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, and Voyager of the Seas.
- Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival offers a variety of itineraries that depart from Sydney and Melbourne and visit destinations such as New Zealand, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia.
- P&O Cruises: P&O is an Australian-based cruise line that operates several ships that depart from ports around the country. Itineraries include trips to destinations such as Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand.
Smaller Cruise Lines
In addition to these major players, there are also a number of smaller cruise lines that operate in Australia. These companies often offer more specialized itineraries that focus on specific regions or activities. Some examples include:
- Kimberley Quest: This company specializes in cruises through the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia.
- Coral Expeditions: Coral Expeditions focuses on small-ship expeditions to destinations such as the Great Barrier Reef and Papua New Guinea.
- Sail Ningaloo: This company offers luxury sailing trips to Ningaloo Reef, one of Australia’s most spectacular natural wonders.
COVID-19 and Cruise Travel in Australia
It’s worth noting that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the cruise industry worldwide, and Australia is no exception. In March 2020, the Australian government issued a ban on all cruise ship arrivals in response to the pandemic.
This ban was lifted in November 2020, but with strict new protocols in place to ensure passenger safety. These protocols include mandatory pre-boarding testing for all passengers and crew members, as well as enhanced cleaning and sanitation measures onboard.
The Bottom Line
If you’re planning a trip to Australia and want to explore the country by sea, there are plenty of options available. From large cruise ships operated by major companies to smaller, specialized vessels run by local operators, there’s something for every type of traveler.
Of course, it’s important to keep in mind the current COVID-19 situation and any travel restrictions that may be in place. But with proper planning and precautions, a cruise can be a safe and enjoyable way to experience all that Australia has to offer.