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Choose Cruise ExpertDreaming of swapping Christmas cooking and New Year clean-up for warm seas, cocktails and fireworks at sea? Christmas Cruises from Australia let you spend the festive season in the sun, with special menus, kids’ activities, and plenty of time to relax. From last minute deals to longer all inclusive sailings, it is an easy way to gather the family and celebrate without any of the stress.
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33 cruises
New Zealand from Sydney, Australia with the Anthem of the Seas


Cruise Only
From / To Sydney, Australia
Anthem of the Seas
from A$108 – A$252 off when you book online
19 Dec 2026
9 nights
No Alternative Dates
Best Price Guarantee
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New Zealand from Sydney, Australia with the Royal Princess


Cruise Only
From / To Sydney, Australia
Royal Princess
from A$164 – A$345 off when you book online
22 Dec 2026
13 nights
No Alternative Dates
South Pacific from Sydney, Australia with the Celebrity Edge


Cruise Only
From / To Sydney, Australia
Celebrity Edge
from A$93 – A$264 off when you book online
2 Jan 2027
12 nights
No Alternative Dates
New Zealand from Sydney, Australia with the Anthem of the Seas


Cruise Only
From / To Sydney, Australia
Anthem of the Seas
from A$144 – A$364 off when you book online
28 Dec 2026
9 nights
No Alternative Dates
Australia from Sydney, Australia with the Carnival Splendor


Cruise Only
From / To Sydney, Australia
Carnival Splendor
Full board
from A$44 – A$89 off when you book online
26 Dec 2026
4 nights
No Alternative Dates
South Pacific from Brisbane, Australia with the Grand Princess


Cruise Only
From / To Brisbane
Grand Princess
from A$120 – A$192 off when you book online
6 Jan 2027
14 nights
No Alternative Dates
South Pacific from Sydney, Australia with the Carnival Splendor


Cruise Only
From / To Sydney, Australia
Carnival Splendor
Full board
from A$77 – A$156 off when you book online
17 Dec 2026
9 nights
No Alternative Dates
New Zealand from Sydney, Australia with the Carnival Splendor


Cruise Only
From / To Sydney, Australia
Carnival Splendor
Full board
from A$130 – A$237 off when you book online
3 Jan 2027
10 nights
No Alternative Dates
New Zealand from Melbourne, Australia with the Azamara Pursuit


Cruise Only
From Melbourne To Auckland
Azamara Pursuit
from A$292 – A$583 off when you book online
4 Jan 2027
16 nights
No Alternative Dates
South Pacific from Brisbane, Australia with the Carnival Luminosa


Cruise Only
From / To Brisbane
Carnival Luminosa
Full board
from A$71 – A$82 off when you book online
18 Dec 2026
8 nights
No Alternative Dates
A Christmas cruise from Australia is one of the easiest and most memorable ways to enjoy the festive season. Instead of spending weeks preparing meals, organising family gatherings and cleaning up afterwards, you can step on board and let the crew take care of every detail while you focus on relaxing and making lasting memories.
Departing from major ports including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth, Christmas cruise from Australia offer itineraries suited to couples, families, solo travellers and groups of friends. Depending on your preferred holiday style, you can spend Christmas exploring the South Pacific, sailing along the Australian coastline or discovering New Zealand’s spectacular scenery.
Ships are beautifully decorated throughout December, creating a festive atmosphere from the moment you board. Guests can enjoy Christmas trees, themed entertainment, carol performances, seasonal cocktails and special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dining. Children can look forward to visits from Santa, festive activities and dedicated kids’ clubs, while adults can relax by the pool, indulge in the spa or enjoy a quiet dinner overlooking the ocean.
Itineraries range from short escapes of just a few nights to longer holidays that include both Christmas and New Year celebrations. Whether you’re after a relaxing tropical getaway or a scenic cruise filled with incredible destinations, celebrating Christmas at sea offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional holiday at home.
For many Australians, Christmas is about spending quality time together. Cruising allows you to do exactly that without the usual stress that often comes with hosting the festive season.
Popular destinations include Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Tasmania, New Zealand and beautiful Australian coastal ports. Some itineraries also visit remote destinations such as Christmas Island, known for its unique wildlife, dramatic coastline and pristine natural landscapes.
Another advantage is the variety of ships available. Whether you prefer a family-friendly mega ship packed with entertainment or a smaller vessel offering a more relaxed atmosphere, there’s a Christmas sailing to suit every travel style and budget.
Booking early is highly recommended, particularly for balcony cabins and departures during school holidays. Festive cruises remain among the most popular sailings each year, and the best itineraries often sell well in advance.
When should I book a Christmas cruise?
Booking between six and twelve months ahead is recommended. Christmas departures are among the busiest cruises of the year, particularly for families travelling during school holidays.
What destinations can I visit?
Popular itineraries include the South Pacific, New Zealand, Tasmania and coastal Australia. Cruise lengths vary from short escapes to extended voyages covering Christmas and New Year.
What happens on Christmas Day onboard?
Most cruise lines host festive breakfasts, traditional Christmas lunches or dinners, themed entertainment, live music, visits from Santa, children’s activities and seasonal decorations throughout the ship.
Are Christmas cruises suitable for children?
Yes. Most ships offer supervised kids’ clubs, family entertainment, swimming pools, games, youth programs and festive activities designed especially for younger guests.
What is usually included in the cruise fare?
Your fare generally includes accommodation, meals in main dining venues and buffets, entertainment, onboard facilities and Christmas-themed activities. Optional extras such as beverage packages, shore excursions, specialty dining and spa treatments can be purchased separately.
Why book with Cruise1st Australia?
At CruiseAway Australia, we make it easy to compare cruise lines, itineraries and cabin options in one place. Our experienced cruise specialists help you find exceptional value, exclusive offers and the right sailing for your festive holiday, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing Christmas escape with complete confidence.
Looking for the perfect festive escape? Book with CruiseAway Australia to compare leading cruise lines, access outstanding value and receive expert guidance from cruise specialists dedicated to helping you find your ideal Christmas holiday at sea.
Christmas Cruises from Australia