Cruises from Sydney

Top Cruise Lines Departing from Sydney

With its brand-new overseas cruise terminal, Sydney is the biggest and best place to start your cruise. You will have a grand variety of itineraries to choose from, as Sydney is home to some of the largest cruise companies.

• P&O Australia cruises from Sydney
• Princess cruises from Sydney
• Celebrity cruises from Sydney
• Royal Caribbean cruises from Sydney

Top Destinations from Sydney

Some of the most popular international destinations for cruises from Sydney are:

• New Zealand cruises from Sydney – grand national parks, ancient rock formations, unique Maori culture and inventive cuisine
• Vanuatu cruises from Sydney – an archipelago of 80+ beautiful islands with deserted beaches & ancient culture
• New Caledonia cruises from Sydney – with its UNESCO World Heritage lagoon
• Fiji cruises from Sydney – explore the garden island of Taveuni

Things To Do in Sydney

If you are staying in Sydney as part of a longer trip, here are some quick tips on things to do that are close to the cruise terminal.

• Sydney Opera House – it is on everybody’s bucket list, and rightly so! Climb the stairs of the Opera House and you’ll be met with a beautiful view and spot more of the city’s iconic sights.
• Harbour Bridge, locally known as the ‘Coathanger’. In fact, you can catch sight of this world-renowned symbol of Australia from almost anywhere in the city. Climbing right to the top of the bridge is the best way to experience it: take the popular BridgeClimb or climb the steps through 3 exhibits to reach the top of the Pylon Lookout.
• Royal Botanic Garden is the oldest botanic garden in the country and has something for everyone – you can explore the plants and the history of the place on a free tour, enjoy a delicious meal in one of the many cafes, see an exhibition at the Calyx or just relax and admire the view.
• Take a ferry, of which there are plenty around the harbour, to one of Sydney’s most popular northern beaches – Manly. This quiet and laid-back beachside town feels miles away from the hustle and bustle of Sydney, yet it’s only a 30-minute ride from the Harbour.
• Catch a 12-minute ferry to the Taronga Zoo from the main harbour, and you’ll find yourself in a place full of hirsute Australians and numerous imported guests. You can really enjoy animal encounters here, knowing that their welfare is taken very seriously.
• Shopping is more your thing? Sydney has a grand variety of shops catering to all styles and desires. Wander along Pitt Street to visit some of the biggest department stores like Myer and David Jones. Or if you’re looking for that something special, wander down The Rocks narrow lanes and discover local boutiques. The Rocks also hosts a number of markets where you can find some handcrafted artisan gems.

Check out our guide on things to do in Sydney for more detailed information.

Sydney Cruise Terminals

Sydney is the only Australian city with two dedicated cruise terminals:

• Overseas Passenger Terminal
• White Bay Cruise Terminal

Overseas Passenger Terminal

This terminal is built to accommodate some of the biggest cruise liners in the world, so if you are cruising on board an ocean giant, you are likely to embark/disembark here. You will have Sydney’s top sights at your doorstep:

• Sydney Harbour
• Zoos
• Aquariums
• Theatres

Located in the heart of Sydney, the Overseas Passenger Terminal is easy to get to and from. It is a few minutes walk to the Circular Quay station that’s full of travel options:

• Trains
• Buses
• Ferries

These will take you anywhere you need to go. The Circular Quay station is just a 17-minute train ride from the airport. There are also plenty of taxis just outside the cruise terminal.

Because of its central location, the terminal provides no parking facilities for passengers. Cars may only drop people off or pick them up in front of the terminal.

White Bay Cruise Terminal

The White Bay Terminal is located a little further into the Sydney harbour and welcomes smaller cruise ships or those that homeport in Sydney for a season or two.

The terminal sits right next to the city’s trendy Balmain area that features:

• Swanky bars and restaurants
• Exclusive shopping opportunities

Take a taxi and you will be in the city in five minutes. Some cruise lines also offer transfer options, plus there are ferries available on departure/arrival days.

Guests embarking on a cruise can leave their cars at specially provided large car parks.

The Best Time to Visit Sydney

Sydney is serviced by cruise ships all year round. If you want guaranteed good weather, choose one of the summer months for your cruise holiday.

However, the mild New South Wales climate provides for sunshine and an average of 16 degrees even in winter, so don’t be afraid to book your cruise for the period from June to August.

Need help with choosing your perfect cruise holiday from Sydney? CruiseAway has a fantastic selection of the best deals and cruise experts on hand to find the perfect fit for you.