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Royal Caribbean Is Headed Back to Australia — and You Can Start Booking Today

Sailings will begin in October 2023.

Royal Caribbean has announced a slew of Australian cruises for 2023 and 2024 a week after the country said it would lift its ban on cruise ships.

The cruise line will sail out of Brisbane and Sydney , embarking on everything from two-night getaways to 19-night voyages, according to Royal Caribbean . The Australia cruises, which will start in October 2023, will sail on the Ovation of the Seas , Quantum of the Seas , and — for the first time — on the Enchantment of the Seas .

"It's thrilling to welcome back two Quantum Class ships Down Under, demonstrating Royal Caribbean's commitment to the region. Plus… we've taken the opportunity to bring Enchantment of the Seas to Australia to offer unique sailings that visit new destinations we know our guests are excited to explore," Gavin Smith, the managing director of Australia and New Zealand for Royal Caribbean International, said in a statement. "We look forward to even more guests, their loved ones, and families creating memories while holidaying with us in several of the most spectacular places on earth."

Sail along Queensland's coast, including a trip to Cairns, which is a jumping-off point for the Great Barrier Reef . Or use Sydney as your base to explore New Zealand's coastline , Hobart, Adelaide, or the stunning South Pacific islands.

Those who board the Enchantment's inaugural season in Australia can visit Kangaroo Island , New Caledonia, and Vanuatu, or plan to celebrate Christmas at sea with an 11-night South Pacific and Fiji Christmas cruise.

Travelers can book a Royal Caribbean Australia cruise starting Wednesday and will receive half-price deposits if they book before April 5.

Australia dropped its ban on cruise ships last week, allowing it to end when it expires on April 17, according to the government . Before the pandemic in 2019, Australia welcomed more than 600,000 cruise ship passengers.

"On the basis of medical advice and with the agreement of National Cabinet, lifting the cruise ban is consistent with the reopening of Australia's international border and shows that we have successfully navigated Australia's emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic," Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt said in a statement.

The decision also comes weeks after Australia opened its borders to vaccinated international tourists .

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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Royal Caribbean Details 2023-2024 Australia Schedule

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• March 23, 2022

Royal Caribbean International has revealed its Australia lineup for the 2023-2024 season.

Voyages in the region will range from two to 19 nights, collectively visiting 38 destinations on the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific islands.

Quantum of the Seas

Quantum  will sail from Brisbane, Australia, returning for an encore after its first summer season sailing from the city in 2022.

Travelers can choose from three to 13-night voyages to explore Queensland’s coast, including destinations such as Airlie Beach and Cairns, Queensland; or discover the untouched beauty of the South Pacific by visiting places like Port Vila, Vanuatu and Noumea, New Caledonia.

Ovation of the Seas

Ovation of the Seas  will operate voyages from Sydney, setting sail on its fifth season in the region.

Guests can choose from 20 different cruises, including nine to 11-night sailings that visit destinations along New Zealand’s coastline like Milford Sound, Wellington, and Bay of Islands. Travelers can also choose from three to nine-night getaways around Australia that visit Hobart, Adelaide, and Eden; as well as sailings to the South Pacific islands.

MORE: After Pulling Getaway From Baltic, Norwegian Reveals Ship’s New Itineraries

Enchantment of the Seas

Enchantment  will sail from Sydney for its inaugural Australia season, visiting new destinations for Royal Caribbean: Kangaroo Island and Gladstone, Australia.

Vacationers can escape to the South Pacific on eight to 11-night voyages and visit Isle of Pines, Mare and Noumea, New Caledonia; Lifou, Loyalty Islands; and Port Vila, Vanuatu.

A series of special cruises are also on the schedule, including an 11-night South Pacific and Fiji Christmas cruise and longer 16 and 18-night sailings to locales such as Darwin, Exmouth, and Fremantle. Passengers can combine the two itineraries back to back to enjoy a 34-night Australia and New Zealand adventure.

More Information

These Australia cruises are now open for booking, and those who book by April 5 can take advantage of 50 percent off deposits.

“It’s thrilling to welcome back two Quantum Class ships Down Under, demonstrating Royal Caribbean’s commitment to the region. Plus, because there’s always more room for adventure with Royal Caribbean, we’ve taken the opportunity to bring  Enchantment of the Seas to Australia to offer unique sailings that visit new destinations we know our guests are excited to explore,” said Gavin Smith, managing director of Australia and New Zealand, Royal Caribbean International.

“We look forward to even more guests, their loved ones and families creating memories while holidaying with us in several of the most spectacular places on earth.”

READ NEXT: Wonder of the Seas Dining Guide: Which Restaurants Are Complimentary?

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Royal Caribbean Summer cruising

Up to 30% OFF fares PLUS Kids Sail from $29 per day!

Royal Caribbean’s 2023-24 cruising season is on sale with wonderful close-to-home itineraries. Cruise from Sydney or Brisbane aboard three magnificent ships – Ovation of the Seas,   Quantum of the Seas and  Brilliance of the Seas.

Enjoy mouth watering culinary experiences, action packed shipboard activities and spectacular onboard entertainment. Royal Caribbean is for couples on a romantic getaway, multi generational families and fun-loving friends travelling together.

The 2023-24 season offers great savings and a magnificent Summer Adventure holiday to look forward to!

Featured Cruises

A Summer of untamed adventure and unbridled freedom is on the horizon! Set sail from Sydney or Brisbane on a range of great itineraries in 2023-24 including:

7 nights Queensland

10 nights South Pacific New Years Eve

12 nights New Zealand

16 nights round australia top end, 18 nights round australia bottom end.

*Many more itineraries are available. Contact us via [email protected] or call 1300 766 537 if you’d like more details.

from Sydney - Ovation of the Seas

9 February 2024

Fares are per person twin share based on lead-in categories

from Brisbane - Quantum of the Seas

8 March 2024

Fares are per person twin share based on lead in categories

10 nights South Pacific New Years Eve*

from Sydney - Brilliance of the Seas

30 December 2023 

14 February 2024

from Perth - Brilliance of the Seas

1 March 2024 

To enquire call 1300 766 537 or complete the form below

Royal caribbean summer 2023-24 adventures from australia.

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION: Your deposit will vary by grade of accommodation and will be due upon booking. Offer is not combinable with other promotions, is capacity-controlled, subject to availability and may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. All fares are subject to the terms and conditions as set out by Cruise Express and its suppliers which may be obtained at the time of booking. Cruise Express reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions and to cancel any product or service offered in the event of such error or omission. *Cruise prices are based on lead-in staterooms categories and include all the available promotional savings. Cruise prices are based on select departure dates and are subject to change and availability until booked. Cruise fares are valid on new individual bookings. Availability is limited and the cruise line has the right to withdraw from sale at any time, without notice. Travel Insurance is strongly recommended at the time of paying your deposit.

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Press Releases

Bigger, bolder, brighter: royal caribbean reveals 2022/2023 adventures on australia’s three boldest ships.

SYDNEY, 18 March 2021 –  A summer of adventure is on the horizon as Royal Caribbean International announces its blockbuster 2022/23 Australian season, featuring three of the region’s boldest ships — including two high-tech Quantum Class ships. Bookings open Thursday 25 March 2021.

From October 2022, sun-seekers can discover Queensland’s newest, most technologically advanced ship, Quantum of the Seas , sailing from Brisbane’s brand-new International Cruise Terminal. Meanwhile, adventure lovers can embrace action-packed indulgence on board her sister ship the innovative Ovation of the Seas or savour world-class dining on Radiance of the Seas , both sailing from Sydney.

“Quantum Class ships are in a league of their own in Australian waters — and we have two sailing in the 2022/2023 season,” says Gavin Smith, VP and managing director, Royal Caribbean International, Australia and New Zealand. “This calibre of ship isn’t seen elsewhere in this region, and their technological innovation and modern hardware open up a new audience to cruising.”

“Along with fan-favourite Radiance , they offer variety and adventure that can’t be matched – it will be time to turn holiday-making up full throttle in 2022/23.”

Together the three game-changing ships will offer 66 sensational 2- to 19-night cruises to sun-soaked ports throughout Australia, New Zealand, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Fiji and Loyalty Islands. The new season also features more weekend 2- or 3-night “sampler” cruises than ever before, so guests can get a taste for cruise life and weekend like they mean it in 2022/23.

Quantum is the newest and most technologically advanced ship ever to homeport in Queensland, and with features like the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, North Star all-glass viewing capsule and FlowRider surf simulator, she offers the ultimate family holiday from the Sunshine State. Along with over 18 different dining options – including Jamie’s Italian, Chops Grille steakhouse and whimsical Wonderland – she’ll also bring a new wave of entertainment never seen before in Australia.

Quantum will offer 24 sailings ranging from 3- to 18-nights, including two transpacific journeys, to destinations in the South Pacific, New Zealand and Australia. Families will be spoilt for choice over the summer, as more South Pacific school holiday sailings departing Queensland are on offer than ever before.

• Sailing Highlight: Fares start from AUD$1049 per person, twin share for an interior stateroom on an 8-night South Pacific cruise departing from Brisbane, 1 November 2022. Prices include accommodation, world-class dining, entertainment and onboard activities like the RipCord by iFly and FlowRider – which retail for up to $90 per person on land.
• Sailing Highlight: Fares start from AUD$549 per person, twin share for an interior stateroom on a 3-night Weekend Sampler departing from Brisbane on 24 November 2022.

Ovation will continue to wow for her seventh Australian season. Like her sister, she boasts a bevy of breathtaking activities like the North Star, RipCord by iFly, FlowRider and a myriad of dining options, as well as cutting-edge entertainment venues like the transformational Two70 – featuring jaw-dropping shows that weave aerialists and robots into showstopping performances. Ovation will offer 20 sailings, ranging from 2- to 19-nights, to summer stops in New Zealand, Queensland, the South Pacific and Australia.

• Sailing Highlight : Fares start from AUD$1099 per person, twin share for an interior stateroom on an 8-night Australian sailing departing from Sydney on 3 March 2023.

Radiance , sailing from Sydney, is a food lover’s paradise, boasting 11 world-class dining options from the exclusive Chef’s Table to guest favourite Izumi. And with tranquil spaces to relax like the stunning Solarium, and places to energise, like the rock-climbing wall and mini-golf course, she offers the perfect balance of relaxation and action.  Radiance will offer 22 sailings, including two transpacific voyages, ranging from 3- to 18-nights, to destinations such as New Zealand, Great Barrier Reef, South Pacific & Fiji, and Tasmania.

• Sailing Highlight : Fares start from AUD$1399 per person, twin share for an interior stateroom on a 9-night Australian sailing departing from Sydney on 28 December 2022.

For added peace of mind, refundable deposits are available for 2022/23 sailings, which allows guests to retrieve their deposit up to 70 days prior to sailing for most cruises.

TRADE ONLY RELEASE: Royal’s Price Protection means travel partners can sell with confidence, allowing them to reprice their client’s fare outside of final payment to ensure their clients receive the best deal.

The ships also bring with them impressive sustainability credentials, with 100% percent of the Royal fleet equipped to be landfill free and whenever possible, the waste on ships is reused, recycled or converted into energy. Royal Caribbean International is recognised as a leader in sustainability within the cruise industry for its “Save the Waves” ocean conservation program, and for partnerships with WWF-Australia and Taronga Zoo – “Surrender Your Shell” and “Litter Free Oceans”, respectively. Open for sale 25 March 2021. For more information, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.au or call 1800 754 500.

TRADE: Travel partners can visit rcihomeport.com.au or call 1800 754 500 for more information

For easy access to high-res images and B-roll, head to the Royal Caribbean Press Centre

About Royal Caribbean International Royal Caribbean International has been delivering innovation at sea for more than 50 years. Each successive class of ships is an architectural marvel featuring the latest technology and guest experiences for today’s adventurous traveler. The cruise line continues to revolutionise holidays with itineraries to more than 270 destinations in 72 countries on six continents, including Royal Caribbean’s private island destination in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay, the first in the Perfect Day Island Collection. Royal Caribbean has also been voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 16 consecutive years in the US Travel Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards.

Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on Twitter, @RCIaustraliaandnz on Facebook and visiting RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com . For additional information or to make reservations, holidaymakers can call their travel advisor; visit RoyalCaribbean.com.au; or call 1800 754 500.

Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, and regional travel restrictions vary by ship and destination, and are subject to change without notice. Due to evolving health protocols, imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice.

Media Contacts Rachael Gordon PR Executive, Royal Caribbean International, Australia and NZ E: [email protected]   T: 0431064694

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• RCI-Royal Caribbean unveils 2023-2024 Australia cruises on 3...

RCI-Royal Caribbean unveils 2023-2024 Australia cruises on 3 ships

RCI-Royal Caribbean International announces its 2023-2024 Australia season based on 3 liners

Ovation OTS and Quantum OTS, among the world's most technologically advanced cruise ships, return to Australia to sail out of homeports Brisbane QLD and Sydney NSW . The season also features the debut of Enchantment OTS, with homeporting in Sydney.

Royal Caribbean’s line-up is now open and available on the line’s website, and guests can celebrate with half-price deposits if they book through to April 5.

Explorers of all ages can experience the spectacular beauty of the region on varying itineraries that range from 2-night trips to 19-night journeys. Passengers can visit multiple destinations of a total of 38 gems of the Southern Hemisphere, including locales along the coasts of Australia, the Land of the Long White Cloud, and the beaches of the South Pacific.

2023-2024 itinerary highlights include:

• Quantum of the Seas (from Brisbane) is returning after her first summer season sailing from the port of Brisbane in 2022. Vacationers can choose from 3- to 13-night sailings to Queensland’s coast, including destinations like Airlie Beach and Cairns , or discover the South Pacific by visiting Port Vila (Vanuatu) and Noumea (New Caledonia) .
• Ovation of the Seas (from Sydney) is setting sail on her 5th season in the region. Vacationers can choose from a mix of 20 voyages, including 9- to 11-night cruises that visit destinations along New Zealand’s coastline like Bay of Islands , Milford Sound, and Wellington . Guests can choose from a series of 3- to 9-night voyages around Australia to visit Adelaide , Eden , and Hobart , as well as journeys to the South Pacific islands.
• Enchantment of the Seas (from Sydney) is calling at new destinations for Royal Caribbean: Gladstone and Kangaroo Island . Vacationers can experience the South Pacific on 8- to 11-night cruises and visit Isle of Pines , Mare Island , and Noumea (New Caledonia), Lifou (Loyalty Islands, and Port Vila (Vanuatu). A series of special voyages are also offered, including an 11-night South Pacific & Fiji Christmas trip , and longer 16- and 18-night sailings along Australia’s Top End/West Coast, like Darwin , Exmouth , Fremantle . Passengers can combine the two itineraries back-to-back and enjoy a 34-night Australia & New Zealand adventure.

Royal Caribbean Cruises to Australia

Royal Caribbean has a lot of Australia cruises. Itineraries include cruises to Australia from the USA or Singapore . Other highlights include cruises to Tasmania , circumnavigation cruises , and cruises to Hawaii from Australia . See the schedule of departures below.

Royal Caribbean offers fun cruises at fair prices. They're good for familes and young active people. Features of the Radiance of the Sea ship include glass elevators facing the ocean, 9-story central atrium, Solarium pool, Vitality Spa, rock climbing, Adventure Ocean Youth Program, and outdoor movie screen.

7-night Queensland cruise on the Quantum of the Seas. Round-trip from Brisbane to Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia) and Willis Island (Australia). • 2024 departure: January 12.

9-night cruise to the Great Barrier Reef on the Ovation of the Seas. Round-trip from Sydney to Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia) and Willis Island (cruising). • 2024 departure: January 12.

8-night cruise to Southern Australia on the Ovation of the Seas. Round-trip from Sydney to Adelaide (Australia) and Hobart (Tasmania). • 2024 departure: January 21.

6-night cruise to South Australia on the Brilliance of the Seas. Round-trip from Sydney to Melbourne (Australia) and Hobart (Tasmania). • 2024 departure: January 27.

28-night cruise to Australia from California. One-way from Los Angeles (California) to Brisbane (Australia). Visit Maui (Hawaii), Kona (Hawaii), Oahu (Hawaii), Moorea, Tahiti, Auckland (New Zealand), Bay of Islands (New Zealand), Sydney (Australia) and Newcastle (Australia). • 2024 departure: February 11.

34-night cruise Around Australia on the Brilliance of the Seas. Round-trip from Sydney 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). • 2024 departure: February 14.

7-night Queensland cruise on the Quantum of the Seas. Round-trip from Brisbane to Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia) and Willis Island (Australia). • 2024 departure: March 8.

5-night cruise to Tasmania on the Brilliance of the Seas. Round-trip from Sydney to Hobart (Tasmania). • 2024 departure: March 30.

15-night cruise from Australia to Hawaii on the Quantum of the Seas. One-way from Brisbane to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Moorea, Raiatea and Tahiti. • 2024 departure: April 4.

17-night cruise from Australia to Hawaii on the Brilliance of the Seas. One-way from Sydney to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Bay of Islands (New Zealand), Tauranga (New Zealand), Raiatea, Tahiti and Moorea. • 2024 departure: April 12.

18-night cruise from Australia to Hawaii on the Ovation of the Seas. One-way from Sydney to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Bay of Islands (New Zealand), Auckland (New Zealand), Moorea, Tahiti and Raiatea. • 2024 departure: April 13.

18-night cruise to Australia from Hawaii. One-way from Honolulu (Hawaii) to Sydney (Australia). Visit Tahiti, Moorea, Raiatea, Auckland (New Zealand) and Bay of Islands (New Zealand). • 2024 departure: October 13.

8-night Queensland cruise on the Ovation of the Seas. Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia) and Willis Island (Australia). • 2024 departure: November 13.

12-night cruise from Singapore to Australia on the Quantum of the Seas. One-way from Singapore to Brisbane. Visit Lombok (Indonesia), Darwin (Australia), Cairns (Australia) and Airlie Beach (Australia). • 2024 departure: November 19.

10-night Christmas cruise on the Ovation of the Seas. Round-trip from Sydney to Picton (New Zealand), Napier (New Zealand), Lyttelton (New Zealand) and Dunedin (New Zealand). • 2024 departure: December 18.

6-night Queensland cruise on the Quantum of the Seas. Round-trip from Brisbane (Australia) to Airlie Beach (Australia) and Willis Island (Australia). • 2025 departure: January 4.

7-night Queensland cruise on the Ovation of the Seas. Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Airlie Beach (Australia). • 2025 departure: January 23.

21-night Australia to Hawaii cruise on the Quantum of the Seas. One-way from Sydney (Australia) to Honolulu (Hawaii). Visit Picton (New Zealand), Auckland (New Zealand), Papeete (Tahiti), Moorea (French Polynesia) and Raiatea (French Polynesia). • 2025 departure: April 8.

17-night Hawaii to Australia cruise on the Anthem of the Seas. One-way from Honolulu (Hawaii) to Sydney (Australia). Visit Papeete (Tahiti), Moorea (French Polynesia), Raiatea (French Polynesia) and Tauranga (New Zealand). • 2025 departure: October 13.

12-night Singapore to Australia cruise on the Voyager of the Seas. One-way from Singapore to Brisbane (Australia). Visit Bali (Indonesia), Darwin (Australia), Cairns (Australia) and Airlie Beach (Australia). • 2025 departure: December 1.

9-night Christmas cruise on the Anthem of the Seas. Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Picton (New Zealand), Lyttelton (New Zealand) and Dunedin (New Zealand). • 2025 departure: December 19.

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BEAUTY RICH & RARE

Australian cruises.

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

Australia delivers the best of both the city and the country, the beach and the bush. 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 hire 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 and 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 emerald doves and white-bellied sea eagles. See the coloured sands at postcard-perfect Fraser Island, or explore the wild island state of Tasmania during your holiday.

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 favourite 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 holiday adventure and 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 TANTALISED 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.

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 prawns 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 specialities 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 favourite brand of chocolate-covered biscuits.

IT'S PIE TIME

Meat pies – with a flaky pastry crust baked around a savoury filling of ground meat (typically beef or lamb) and spices – are a traditional Australian lunch or snack found in bakeries across the country. Another favourite 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

Related Destinations

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Royal Caribbean says cruise to depart Baltimore on May 25 ‘as planned’

The main channel out of the Port of Baltimore will be open by May 25, at least according to Royal Caribbean.

In a statement Wednesday, the cruise line said a cruise scheduled for May 25 will leave Baltimore “as planned.”

“Royal Caribbean International looks forward to returning to the Port of Baltimore once again. Vision of the Seas will set sail on a 5-night itinerary as planned on Saturday, May 25,” a Royal Caribbean spokesperson said.

A Carnival ship is scheduled to leave Baltimore on May 26 while another Royal Caribbean cruise is scheduled to leave Baltimore on May 30. Carnival has not responded to requests for comment.

Since a cargo ship lost power and struck one of the Francis Scott Key Bridge’s support piers March 26, collapsing the span into the water and killing six construction workers, Royal Caribbean and Carnival cruises scheduled to embark and debark in Baltimore have been rerouted through Norfolk, Virginia.

Baltimore cruise industry hopes Key Bridge channel reopens in time for busy June

A Coast Guard official said Wednesday that response officials in Baltimore believe the cargo ship, the Dali, will be refloated and removed from the middle of the waterway “early next week.” The Army Corps of Engineers hopes to reopen the federal channel by the end of May.

In 2023, Maryland Port Administration spokesperson Richard Scher said, 444,000 passengers boarded cruises in the terminal, the highest total since 2012. Eight cruise ships are scheduled to depart in June. The cruise terminal primarily services ships from Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruise lines, and the Norwegian Cruise Line also occasionally uses the terminal. Typically cruises are round trips, though there are some one-way transatlantic offerings.

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11 Around-The-World Cruises For An Epic Getaway

"Sailing around the world" sounds so romantic, doesn't it? You're sailing to remote islands with like-minded people while chasing sunsets on a distant horizon. Sure, you can just board a plane to, say, New Zealand, but there's something so pure and patient about maritime journeys. Cruises are like floating resorts, which ease their way over the waves. It's the definition of "slow travel." 

Amazingly, in the modern world of jet-setting travel, round-the-world cruises do exist. Voyagers visit dozens of ports over the course of their odyssey, each with its own landscape, climate, and personality. There are lots of ways travelers can experience "the trip of a lifetime," but this kind of circumnavigation outmatches just about all of them -- and in style. However, there are a few things to consider before investigating such cruises. First, what does it actually mean to sail "around the world?"

Many companies use this phrase — and sail thousands of nautical miles — but only around a single ocean or hemisphere. Even when ships do sail a distance equivalent to the equator (or more), they rarely return to their precise port of origin. Also, these epic  cruise vacations can be pricey ; the kind of dream that merits cashing in a 401K, and the time commitment is also substantial, meaning months on the water. But for diehard cruisers, crisscrossing the planet could easily be worth the time and money, and if this sounds like you, these 11 cruise lines are scheduled to sail around the world.

Read more: The Prettiest Waters Around The World

Viking: World Cruise

For 138 days, passengers frog-hop through the Caribbean, pass through the Panama Canal, make their way to the islands of Polynesia, and skirt Australia, Asia, and Europe before finally dropping their anchor in London. On Viking's World Cruise, you can step ashore in 28 different nations and pick from 57 guided tours. Viking has been a prolific, respected cruise line since its founding in 1997, and this three-quarter circumnavigation sets sail in December 2024, so there's still time to book.

Ships are equipped with spas, luxury dining options, and cabin beds that can be separated or combined, among many other touches. Long before stepping aboard, the Viking website has a virtual 360-degree tour, acquainting future travelers with the ship's staterooms. Viking has thoughtfully put together a reading list to help travelers get a deeper understanding of the countries they will visit, which is especially helpful in little-understood destinations like Moorea and Indonesia. The ship also has a sizable library onboard for further research. This, plus its sophisticated tours and dining options that reflect the culture of each port, may explain Viking's moniker, "the thinking person's cruise." Quality does come at a price, with full passage starting at $59,995.

Ambassador: Grand Round The World Cruise

The Ambiance sets off from London, crosses the Atlantic, passes through Panama, and hits Australia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America before pinging back to the United Kingdom. Not only do you cross all the major oceans, but you actually cross the Atlantic three times. Most of these destinations are warm-weather ports, including Sydney at the height of summer. Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats are recommended on this largely equatorial route.

Ambassador is new to the cruise scene, having been established in the United Kingdom in 2021, and Ambiance is its flagship vessel. Passengers will spend their 120-night voyage in extreme comfort, traveling to 24 countries and 34 ports of call, with top-notch dining, live entertainment, and about 35,000 nautical miles in between. If you can live without a porthole, opting for an  inside cabin on the cruise , then passage starts at the budget-friendly price of $8,500 per person, making this Ambassador cruise one of the most economical on this list. You can also add on drink packages and arrange tours in advance or onboard through an agent or the Ambassador app. You can also explore the ship before you travel, thanks to a 360-degree virtual tour. The 2024 voyage sets sail on June 6.

Regent: World Cruise

The 2026 Regent World Cruise starts in Miami and ends in Miami, which makes it convenient to coordinate, especially if you're already based in the United States. Regent Seven Seas Cruises was founded in 1992 and is a respected brand in the industry.

The ship, the Seven Seas Mariner, also lives up to its name with a formidable 154-night itinerary: the Panama Canal, points along Central America, a dozen Pacific islands, Australia, South Asia, East Africa, and two Atlantic islands before returning to Florida. The Mariner arrives in many well-trod ports like Cape Town and Acapulco, but the route also includes locations that most travelers would have trouble pinpointing on a map: Lautoka, Abidjan, and Male are all names cruisers will become familiar with. To really explore these places, Regent organizes a whopping 431 free shore excursions across six continents, 77 ports, and 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sailing nearly 40,000 nautical miles with world-class spas, dining, and entertainment aboard doesn't come cheap. While you'll need to contact Regent to request specific prices, passengers can expect to pay nearly $100,000 for passage. Regent's World Cruise is considered a luxury-level experience with first-class airfare, gratuities, and 24-hour room service included. If this is your tax bracket, just wait until you see the suites.

Royal Caribbean: Ultimate World Cruise

Royal Caribbean has been taking tourists to far-flung destinations since the late 1960s, and it's now one of the most recognizable cruise companies in the world, so naturally Royal Caribbean would host a round-the-world voyage. But even for seasoned travelers, the Ultimate World Cruise is pretty, well, ultimate. Royal Caribbean's world cruise lasts 274 nights and arrives in no fewer than 60 countries. In other words, you'll spend nine months at sea and personally visit more than a quarter of the sovereign nations on Earth. The saga starts and ends in Miami, where the Royal Caribbean is headquartered, which should make arrangements easy.

The biggest bragging right of all: This cruise touches on every single continent, including Elephant Island and Paradise Bay in Antarctica. You'll find yourself in both Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Australia, plus ports you've never even heard of. That said, unless your soul is fueled by pure wanderlust, this itinerary may sound like a lot of cruising, which may explain why Royal Caribbean has divided the journey into four segments. Cruisers don't have to commit to the entire itinerary; they can easily pick from the quarter that most interests them. 

By the time you read this, a segment may be the only option left, as the next Ultimate World Cruise departs in December of 2023. The segments are significantly more affordable as well. An interior stateroom for the full cruise costs at least $60,000 per person, while a segment starts at $12,500.

Cunard: Full World Voyage

When the Queen Mary 2 departs from New York City on January 3, 2024, it won't return to this same harbor for 123 nights. The itinerary isn't exactly "around the world," but rather a crossing of the Eastern Hemisphere — twice. Passengers traverse the Atlantic to the United Kingdom, then ease their way down the eastern coast of Africa before beelining for Australia. The ship boomerangs back, with many stops in Asia, a shortcut through the Suez Canal, and a tour of the Mediterranean before heading back to the U.S.

The voyage comes at the heels of Cunard's 100th anniversary, making it the second-oldest company on the list. The Queen Mary 2 has been Cunard's flagship vessel since 2004, and the company has mastered hospitality over the past century, with exceptional dining, luxury suites, and Broadway-quality performances by the Royal Court Theatre. Cunard also takes pride in its children's facilities, encouraging families to travel together, as well as the great English tradition of afternoon tea. Most of the budget cabins on the Queen Mary 2 were already booked at the time of this writing, but cabins with balconies are still available, starting at the not-ludicrous price of $16,899 per person. 

Oceania: Around The World In 180 Days

When Junes Verne wrote his novel "Around the World in Eighty Days," his Victorian goal was to travel as quickly as possible. Oceania is now advertising the opposite: This journey takes passengers the long way from Los Angeles to New York City, across the Pacific, around Australia, along the coasts of East Asia, and then up through the Middle East, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and even Greenland. The itinerary doesn't spend much time in the "global south," so you'll have to visit Africa and South America another time.

The Miami-based Oceania was founded in 2002 and specializes in long-haul cruises, so they know their system well. This cruise may be especially appealing to foodies. The company takes particular pride in its onboard meals as well as in-country Culinary Discovery Tours. Passengers can also take advantage of The Aquamar Spa & Vitality Center, which can orchestrate a special dietary regimen.

Oceania exudes "small-ship luxury" and caps its total number of passengers at 1,250. Everything about the ship is more intimate than found on its larger cousins, from the live entertainment to the duty-free boutiques. If you like a small-town feel, 180 days should be just enough time to meet all your shipmates. If you can't summon the time or (at least) $47,599 by January 2024, the next ship departs in January 2025.

Princess: 111-Day World Cruise

This Princess cruise is another true circumnavigation, starting in Los Angeles and bearing west until the ship arrives back at its original dock. The 111-day cruise starts on January 18, 2024, and includes all three major oceans, both the Suez and Panama Canals, plus 47 ports along the way. The itinerary is light on Asian and African ports and skips South America altogether, but you can still enjoy visits to Australia, the Middle East, and numerous destinations around Europe.

Princess is a hallowed name in the cruise industry. Not only have its ships been sailing the world since the 1960s, but Princess is still one of the most profitable cruise companies in the world. Passengers can expect onboard enrichment programs, award-winning live performances, and rejuvenating treatments at the Lotus Spa. Each port will also bring its own offerings of special excursions, from river rafting to art tours. 

With its dependable quality of service and nearly four-month itinerary, it's remarkable that base bookings start at only $15,498. Better yet, if you want to circle the globe with the whole family, this Princess itinerary is a family-friendly cruise and offers youth programming, which is not always the case. If you miss this one, no worries. Three more, of varying lengths, are slated for January 2025.

Holland America Line: Grand World Voyage

Fort Lauderdale is the beginning and end point for the Zuiderdam, which spends 128 days making a complete circle around the globe. Holland America's Grand World Voyage is true to its name. Passengers travel across the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, making port on five continents. Most of its destinations are clustered around Asia and the Mediterranean, and it skips over Australia. But the Voyage is a rare opportunity to sail up the Amazon River, with visits to inland Brazilian cities most travelers would never think to visit.

Holland America began as a shipping and passenger line in the mid-19th Century, and its history of cruising is nearly as old as the concept. The flagship Zuiderdam is a luxury vessel with a swimming pool and sizable theater. It also boasts several diverse dining areas, including the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse, the Italian-themed Canaletto, and the à la carte Lido Market. There's Billboard Onboard, a special room for trivia nights and karaoke, as well as World Stage, a presentation space with a wraparound LED screen. Bookings start at the more expensive rate of $22,499 for an inside cabin, and the 2024 voyage will set sail on January 3, 2024, but you can expect additional Grand World Voyages to be slated in the coming years.

Azamara: World Voyage

Formerly part of the Royal Caribbean fleet, Azamara is now an independent company taking its own journeys. The 2025 World Voyage begins in San Diego and sails westward, across the Pacific, to Australia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, before passengers disembark in Barcelona. The World Voyage doesn't quite girdle the globe, stopping just short of the Atlantic Ocean, and the only stop in Africa is Giza. But this 155-night expedition should satisfy almost any traveler, especially with its 40 countries and 22 overnights.

Unlike many world cruises, Azamara has divided its full itinerary into segments with clear geographic themes, such as "South Pacific Jewels" and "Mediterranean Icons." These titles can help turn experiences into coherent narratives. For example, "Ancient Pathways" draws a historic and economic line between Mumbai and Athens, along with all ports in between. These themes are coupled with thoughtful excursions, which are often scheduled around local holidays and festivals. The World Voyage for 2024 appears to be sold out, but the 2025 edition sets sail on January 5. Passage starts at a princely $39,999.

Freighter Cruises

Some of us want to keep it simple. No need for late-night show-stoppers, cocktail parties with hundreds of strangers, or daring bets at the roulette wheel. "Freighter cruises" have gone by many names over the years, such as "banana boats" and "cargo cruises," but passengers have hitched rides on commercial ships since the dawn of seafaring. These accommodations come in many forms, and you do have to share your vessel with stacks of massive shipping containers; still, you can expect a comfortable cabin and regular meals, along with friendly and respectful crewmembers from around the world. For travelers with a Jack London streak, the freighter cruise feels raw and adventurous.

The Freighter Travel Club was founded in 1958, and companies like Maris Freighter Cruises and Voyage en Cargo have booked passengers on commercial vessels for years. Maris has arranged round-the-world itineraries in the past, and multi-week journeys are common, as enormous loads are floated from one nation to the next. The pandemic took its toll on this niche industry, and most of these journeys do not precisely travel around the world. But when they're in operation, freighter cruises usually cost a little over $100 per day, and savvy travelers have flexibility in their bookings.

Miray Cruises: Life At Sea

Sure, cruising is fun, but what if you want to turn your ship into a semi-permanent address? Life at Sea Cruises promises three years of luxury seafaring, with stops in 140 countries across all seven continents. By the time you're done with these 382 ports, you'll have more photos to sort through and stories to share than most people will amass in a lifetime.

That sounds life-changing, but we'll have to see whether it's too good to be true. Life at Sea is a brand-new enterprise from Miray Cruises, and the maiden voyage has been fraught with delays. However, at the time of this writing, Life at Sea should get underway by the end of 2023, and most full-voyage passengers should already be sailing by 2024. If all goes well, there are four scheduled embarkation options for travelers who want to hop aboard later on, and more will likely be scheduled.

One of the problems has been the ship itself. For a while, the purchase of the ship was in limbo, pushing back the original sail date. However, the MV Lara now seems ready to sail. The medium-sized vessel has space for 1,266 passengers, with a range of cozy cabins, a wellness center, and a pool deck, among many other amenities. Travelers committed to living at sea for three years should get a lot out of their floating home. Life at Sea is a dreamy concept, so let's hope for calm waters once it finally sets sail. 

Read the original article on Explore .

Royal Caribbean

Sector Insights: Sharp Increase in Cruise Line Deposits Drives Positive Operating Cash Flow in Q2; Higher Pricing Needed to Overcome Inflationary Pressure; Enterprise Values Hovering Near Pre-Covid Levels

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