Discover how to choose the right cruise ship for your Australian holiday, from mega-ships packed with activities to intimate boutique vessels. This guide covers ship classes, onboard facilities, dining, entertainment, and physical casinos at sea, so you can board with confidence.
Compare ship sizesCruise ships are usually grouped by passenger capacity. Each class offers a different balance of facilities, atmosphere, and itinerary style.
Mega-ships carry over 3,000 passengers and offer the widest range of facilities, including multiple dining venues, large entertainment complexes, and extensive casino spaces. They are best for families and travellers who want non-stop activities from morning to night.
3,000+ passengersMid-size ships carry 1,500 to 3,000 passengers and balance variety with a more relaxed atmosphere. They often feature a single main dining room, a few specialty restaurants, and a well-equipped casino, appealing to couples and travellers seeking comfort without crowds.
1,500–3,000 passengersSmall ships carry fewer than 1,500 passengers and focus on intimate experiences, unique itineraries, and personalised service. Casinos may be smaller or absent, depending on the cruise line, making them ideal for destination-focused travellers.
Under 1,500 passengersMore dining choices, entertainment, and facilities like multiple pools and large casinos. Expect more crowds and more scheduled activities.
Access to less-visited ports and a quieter onboard atmosphere, but fewer facilities and limited entertainment options.
Consider your priorities: dining variety, entertainment options, casino size, cabin choices, and itinerary. Your preferences will guide the ideal ship size and class.
Are you looking for non-stop activities, relaxation, cultural immersion, or family fun? Your travel style will narrow down the ship size and cruise line. Activity seekers often enjoy mega-ships with rock walls, water parks, and large casinos, while relaxation seekers may prefer smaller ships with a spa focus and quiet lounges.
Cruise fares vary widely by ship, cabin type, and itinerary. Larger ships often have lower base fares but more onboard spending opportunities, while smaller ships may be more inclusive. Check what is included: meals, drinks, gratuities, and entertainment. Casino spending is optional and separate.
Look at dining options, entertainment venues, pools, fitness centres, and casino spaces. Ensure the ship has the facilities that matter most to you.
Cabins range from interior staterooms to suites with balconies. Consider location, size, and amenities. Interior cabins are budget-friendly with no window, oceanview cabins offer a window or porthole, balcony cabins provide private outdoor space, and suites add extra space and perks. Our Cabins & Suites guide provides detailed information.
Most cruise ships feature multiple pools, hot tubs, and sun decks. Larger ships may have water parks, surf simulators, and adults-only pool areas. Deck space varies by ship size.
Fitness centres, jogging tracks, and spa facilities are common. Many ships offer wellness classes, thermal suites, and salon services. Some facilities may have additional fees.
Family-friendly ships provide supervised clubs for children and teens, with age-appropriate activities and dedicated spaces. Age groups typically cover 3 to 17, divided into sub-groups.
Many cruise ships have a physical casino offering table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker, as well as slot machines. Casinos are only open while at sea and are strictly for adults. Learn more about casinos at sea.
Most ships have a main dining room offering multi-course meals with rotating menus. Seating may be assigned or flexible, depending on the cruise line. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner service are usually available, and dress codes may apply on formal nights.
Specialty restaurants offer cuisines like Italian, steakhouse, sushi, and French, often for an additional fee. Reservations are recommended, and fees vary by ship and restaurant.
Casual options include buffets, poolside grills, pizzerias, and cafes. These are typically included in the cruise fare and offer flexible dining times. Buffets often open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while poolside grills serve burgers, hot dogs, and salads.
Most ships feature a main theatre with Broadway-style productions, comedy shows, and live music. Smaller venues host bands, pianists, and DJs. Shows are typically included in the cruise fare, and reservations may be required on larger ships.
Outdoor activities include pools, water slides, rock climbing walls, mini-golf, and sports courts. Some ships have surf simulators and zip lines. Activities vary by ship size and cruise line, and most outdoor activities are included.
For adults, the onboard casino offers blackjack, roulette, poker, and slot machines. It operates only while at sea and follows strict age restrictions. This is a physical casino only; there is no online gambling. Minimum age is typically 18 or 21, depending on cruise line.
Onboard casinos are physical venues offering table games and slot machines. They open only when the ship is in international waters and are restricted to adults. Games typically include blackjack, roulette, poker, and slots. Age restrictions vary by cruise line, usually 18 or 21.
Read the full Casinos at Sea guide · Learn about poker at sea
Cruise ship cabins range from compact interior staterooms to spacious suites with balconies and butler service. Location on the ship can affect noise and motion. Categories include interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite. Suites often include priority boarding and exclusive lounge access. Read the full Cabins & Suites guide.
P&O Cruises Australia offers a range of ships sailing from Australian ports, with a focus on local tastes and casual cruising. Homeports include Sydney and Brisbane, and the line is known for family-friendly cruises and Australian cuisine.
Carnival operates several ships in Australia, offering fun-filled cruises with extensive onboard activities and dining options. Ships like Carnival Splendor and Carnival Spirit homeport in Sydney, and the line is known for lively entertainment and family programs.
Royal Caribbean brings innovative mega-ships to Australia, featuring unique attractions like surf simulators and skydiving experiences. Ships such as Ovation of the Seas sail from Sydney, offering a wide range of dining and entertainment.
Princess Cruises offers premium cruising from Australian ports, with a focus on destination immersion and relaxed elegance. Ships like Majestic Princess homeport in Sydney, and the line is known for excellent service and diverse itineraries.
The Australian cruise season typically runs from October to April, with summer months being most popular. Peak season is December to February. Shoulder seasons in October-November and March-April offer fewer crowds and sometimes lower fares.
Yes, a valid passport is required for international cruises. For domestic cruises that do not leave Australian waters, a government-issued photo ID may suffice, but check with your cruise line. Passport validity requirements vary by destination, so always check entry requirements for each port of call.
No, onboard casinos are only open when the ship is at sea, typically in international waters. They close while the ship is docked in port. Casino hours vary by ship and itinerary, and age restrictions apply.
Most cruise ships operate on a cashless system where purchases are charged to your onboard account. The onboard currency is usually AUD for Australian-based ships, but check with your cruise line. Onboard accounts are settled at the end of the cruise, and some ships may use USD or other currencies.
Detailed guide to cabin categories, amenities, and tips for choosing the right stateroom.
Read guideExplore dining options, from main dining rooms to specialty restaurants and casual eateries.
Read guideLearn about onboard entertainment, including shows, activities, and nightlife.
Read guideComprehensive guide to physical onboard casinos, including games and etiquette.
Read guide