Cruises from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne: Australian home ports and the best itineraries
Some links on this page are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Last updated
Australians have a wide choice of cruises without flying, from short getaways to the South Pacific, New Zealand and Tasmania. Here is how the main home ports compare.
Sydney: two terminals
Sydney is Australia's busiest cruise port and has two terminals. The Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay, beside the Opera House, handles the largest ships, because it sits on the ocean side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The White Bay Cruise Terminal is further up the harbour, so ships berthing there must be able to pass under the bridge. Check which terminal your ship uses before booking transport.
Brisbane
Brisbane International Cruise Terminal at Luggage Point, near the mouth of the Brisbane River, can take large ships and is a base for South Pacific and Queensland coast cruises. It is a drive from the city centre, so plan transfers in advance.
Melbourne and other ports
Melbourne's Station Pier in Port Melbourne serves cruises to Tasmania, New Zealand and around Australia. Adelaide, Fremantle (for Perth) and Hobart see seasonal departures and many port calls.
Popular itineraries
- South Pacific: New Caledonia (Nouméa, Lifou, the Isle of Pines), Vanuatu (Port Vila, Mystery Island) and sometimes Fiji.
- New Zealand: round trips from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane that usually include scenic cruising in Fiordland.
- Short breaks: two- to four-night sailings, often to Moreton Island or simply at sea.
- Tasmania and the Queensland coast: Hobart, Port Arthur, and the Whitsundays and Great Barrier Reef region.
When to sail
The main local season runs through the southern spring and summer, roughly October to April, when most international lines base ships in Australia. Some ships sail from Australia all year, especially from Brisbane and Sydney. Late summer and autumn can bring cyclones in the tropics, and itineraries may change to avoid them.
Lines sailing from Australia
Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess and other international lines run local seasons, and premium and luxury lines visit on longer voyages. P&O Australia's ships became part of Carnival Cruise Line's Australian fleet in 2025, so older articles may refer to the P&O Australia brand.
Documents and insurance
Even on a round trip from Australia, international itineraries require a valid passport, and non-Australian citizens may need visas for the countries visited and for re-entry. Medicare does not cover treatment on board a cruise ship or overseas, so buy travel insurance that includes cruise cover.
Shore excursions
In the South Pacific, the most popular excursions are snorkelling, beach days and island tours, and many ports are reached by tender. Book early in peak season and always allow time to return to the ship.
Frequently asked questions
Which Sydney cruise terminal does my ship use?
Large ships use the Overseas Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay. Ships that can pass under the Harbour Bridge may use White Bay Cruise Terminal. Your booking confirmation will show the terminal.
When is cruise season in Australia?
The main season runs roughly from October to April, but some ships sail from Brisbane and Sydney all year.
Do I need a passport for a South Pacific cruise from Australia?
Yes, international itineraries require a valid passport, and non-Australian citizens may need visas for the countries visited and for re-entry.
Does Medicare cover me on a cruise?
No. Medicare does not cover treatment on a cruise ship or overseas, so buy travel insurance that includes cruise cover.
Free cruise tips & deal alerts
One short email when we publish new cruise guides or spot a worthwhile offer. Unsubscribe any time.
We only use your email to send these updates. See our privacy policy.
