All Your Cruise Questions Answered - Australian Traveller

As part of our ‘Everything you need to know about cruising‘ series, we went straight to the experts to get their insider tips on booking and taking a cruising holiday.

When considering a cruise holiday for the first time, the volume of cruise lines, types of cruises, destinations, shore excursions and everything in between can be overwhelming. We’ve answered the most commonly asked questions about cruising to help you book the right cruise for you.

What size cruise ship is right for me?

Large cruise ships

Cruise expert Louise Goldsbury says a large cruise ship is 1750 passengers or more.

“These are mega-resorts at sea, with a lot going on," she says.

“Large ships offer a huge variety of dining options, kids’ activities and the most lavish entertainment productions you can get (there’s even a Cirque du Soleil show on-board one international ship).

“Also, they almost always sail well – regardless of bad weather. The catch: their sheer size means service can lean towards one-size-fits-all."

the Norwegian Spirit in Sydney Harbour — NCL’s Norwegian Spirit departs in Sydney.

Mid-sized cruise ships

“A mid-sized cruise ship is approximately 750 – 1749 passengers. A mid-sized ship is a happy medium between the benefits of a large hotel and the intimacy of a smaller one," Goldsbury says.

“Mid-sized ships mightn’t have the huuuuuge entertainment and dining options of their super-sized sisters, but they generally offer a more laidback atmosphere, still with a generous amount of variety (and without the queues)."

Seabourn Odyssey at sea in Australia — Seabourn Odyssey is a modern yacht-style ship.

Small cruise ships

“A small ship is 749 passengers or less," Goldsbury says.

“Now it is more like a lavish boutique hotel. Internationally, some small ships can be rather downmarket, but in Australia small ships tend to be all about luxury: cooked-to-order cuisine, highly personalised service and a day-to-day structure free from the rigidity of larger ships. They are best in calm seas."

the Coral Adventurer at sea — Coral Adventurer can carry a maximum of 120 passengers.

When’s the best time of year to take a cruise holiday?

Brett Dudley, founder and former owner of ecruising.travel, says the best time to cruise depends on the destination you choose.

“The best time to cruise around Australia is between late October and March," he says.

“However, there are some cruises that operate all year round. Asia and the USA have cruising all year round as well.

“In Alaska, you can cruise between April and August, in Europe the season runs May to September, and in Canada and New England, cruise from September to November."

an aerial view of the Great Barrier Reef, Coral Expeditions — Embark on a tropical escapade to the Great Barrier Reef with Coral Expeditions. (Image: Phlipvids)

Is cruising expensive or is it value for money?

Jan Harrington, former general manager of product and business development for Cruise Guru, says cruising offers unbeatable value for money.

“The great thing about taking a cruise is that you have your hotel-style accommodation and transport combined as well as meals and entertainment. In general, you can also choose your style of meal. You will never go hungry," she says.

“Most entertainment such as group activities, classes and theatre shows are included in the cruise fare. And don’t forget the access to the gym and pools. The ship also takes you from port to port, cutting out on the cost of transportation items such as airfares and taxis, so effectively you are saving a lot!"

an elegant dining venue onboard Viking Cruises — Viking Cruises offers elegant dining options.

What time of year will I get the best price?

Joel Katz, managing director of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia, says cruise lines release their itineraries at various times throughout the year, often depending on the seasons and the different regions of the world they operate in.

“It’s a good idea to book as far ahead as possible. Booking early also gives you the best chance of securing your preferred cabin options and dates," he says.

“A good CLIA-accredited travel agent will be aware of the best specials available at any particular time."

Lounge by the edge of the infinity pool onboard Viking Cruises.

Am I going to be the youngest person on board?

“No, cruising is incredibly diverse. There is something out there for everyone, you just need to find what suits you," Breeanna Perez, former groups coordinator of Clean Cruising, says.

“From my experience, you will find many people in the younger generation gravitate to the ships with the bells and whistles such as waterslides, indoor sky diving and dodgem cars where the ship is a destination in itself. These ships have a broad variety of entertainment from the high tech evening shows to nightlife, deck parties and movie theatres to appeal to those audiences.

“The cruising industry is innovative when it comes to technology on board and these generations absolutely love this. You just need to pick your ship."

an old couple relaxing onboard True North — Curl up with a drink in hand onboard True North.

Do I need to pack any essentials?

“As well as packing for the weather in your cruise destination, you should also think about the excursions and activities you’ll take part in," Katz says.

“Consider whether you’ll need walking shoes, wet-weather protection or other outdoors gear. It’s also important to check on the on-board dress requirements – are there formal nights that require black tie, or theme nights involving party wear?

“Check to see if you need a passport. If your cruise includes an international port like the Pacific Islands, New Zealand or Bali, even for the day, you will need one – regardless of whether you plan to stay on board. Also, don’t forget at least one power adaptor – some ships only have US sockets."

the seating area at Carnival Captain's Suites — Carnival Captains Suites are decked out with premium comforts.

What’s different about expedition cruises?

“Adventure cruising combines an adventure/expedition experience with a leisure cruise," Harrington says.

“You can explore remote regions of the world, often only accessible by the sea and learn about the history and culture of places off the beaten track. Zodiac inflatable rafts are often used to get passengers onshore where you can take part in activities such as hiking, kayaking and bird watching to name a few. The ships are generally smaller and offer a more intimate atmosphere onboard.

“Many adventure or expedition cruises will have lecturers or an expedition team onboard who give presentations on the culture, history and geography of the destinations."

True North cruise ships in the Kimberley — True North takes you right into the Kimberley.

How do I score an upgrade on a cruise?

“The most common way is to book a Guarantee cabin. Guarantee means you book a spot on the ship but the cruise line chooses the cabin number for you," Perez says.

“These fares tend to be the cheapest in the category type, but there are pros and cons to this so depends on the type of sailor you are and whether you get seasick or not.

“For example, people have booked an obstructed ocean view guarantee and when their room is assigned it can be a non-obstructed ocean view, it’s not always the case but if the ship needs to fill a space they will just move you.

“I tell my clients if you don’t get seasick and don’t mind which deck you are on, take the luck of the draw!"

the pool deck onboard Princess Cruises — Cool off in the shimmering pool deck of Princess Cruises.

What is good about river cruising?

“River cruise operators offer a very different style of cruising to their ocean-going counterparts. A river cruise often involves much more time on land – every day is a port day and there are lots of towns and villages to explore along the waterways. A river cruise is often a good option for anyone who isn’t sure about going to sea, or who prefers smaller travelling groups," Katz says.

Viking Osiris along the Nile River — Viking Osiris cruises along the Nile River.

What are cruise lines doing to limit their environmental impact?

“The cruise industry worldwide has committed to sustainable practices. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) recently announced a historic agreement among cruise lines to reduce emissions by 40 per cent by 2030, through initiatives including new fuels and advanced exhaust cleaning systems," Katz says.

“Cruise lines are also leaders in other initiatives like recycling systems, waste reduction and sewage treatment technologies that protect the oceans. The aim of CLIA cruise lines is not only to meet environmental requirements worldwide, but wherever possible to exceed them."

the Cloud 9 Spa at Carnival Cruise Line — Experience next-level indulgence at the Cloud 9 Spa onboard Carnival.

Will I get seasick?

“Every person is different, and some cruisers find their sea legs pretty quickly," Dudley says.

“There are many tips and tricks to help reduce the chances of seasickness like having ginger sweets and drinks, or some cruisers try over-the-counter preventatives suggested by their medical practitioners or even patches or wristbands that are said to work very well.

“When choosing it is important to consider the location of your cabin and the size of the ship as these factors influence your overall experience."

the Izumi Spa at Princess Cruises — Unwind at the Izumi Spa onboard Princess Cruises.

Underpinned by grassroots hospitality and award-winning organic produce, the Central Coast’s gastronomy scene is thriving, with the region quickly becoming one of the best destinations in NSW for epicures.

Revered for its rugged natural splendour and laid-back seaside charm, NSW’s Central Coast has soared in popularity in recent years, becoming a top choice for an affordable slice of weekend escapism for Sydneysiders. Just a short 45-minute drive north of Sydney, it’s the kind of place that, no matter how many times you visit, leaves you with the sense that there’s always more to uncover. But while the ocean pools, bushwalks and beaches have (rightly) taken the spotlight, it’s the Central Coast food offerings which have been quietly simmering in the background.

From fresh-as-it-gets seafood and juicy organic citrus you can pluck yourself, through to regenerative farming and reputable farm-to-fork dining, this coastal gem has become an idyllic foodie mecca. Here are some of the best ways to immerse yourself in grassroots hospitality and gastronomic glory on the NSW Central Coast.

vegetables in a basket at Bells Garden at Bells At Killcare — From picking your own, to farm-to-table, discover the best Central Coast food experiences. (Image: Remy Brand)

Central Coast oyster experiences

From humble grub to opulent delicacy, oysters have ascended into a league of their own. Epicureans are fascinated by them – willing to pay upwards of $35 per dozen (double at some of Sydney’s reputable fine dining restaurants) – and ‘shuck bars’ seem to be popping up at every milestone celebration.

But it’s rare to find places that really draw back the curtain on how they’re farmed and why everyone is mad for these molluscs. The Central Coast , however, is home to several of these venues. With its pristine waters, mild climate and nutrient-rich estuaries, it’s the perfect breeding ground for oysters.

Learn about oyster farming and, importantly, how to shuck them at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours . Nestled on the Hawkesbury River at Mooney Mooney, Sheridan Beaumont and her team offer a hands-on foodie experience where you can feast on dozens of oysters (white tablecloth and all) while wading through the calm waters. You can even bring your own bottle of bubbles to wash them down.

guests in the water for an experience at Sydney Oyster Farm - Central Coast food — Learn tricks of the trade at Sydney Oyster Farm Tours. (Image: Remy Brand)

Elevate your oyster knowledge even further by heading north over the Hawkesbury River Bridge to the Hawkesbury River Oyster Shed . Tour their scenic oyster leases and saltwater paddocks by boat to uncover the distinct characteristics of the Sydney rock oyster and creamy Pacific oyster. They’ve also partnered with Broken Bay Pearl Farm to offer a one-of-a-kind oyster and pearl farming guided tour, showcasing the Central Coast’s very own pearl oyster, the Broken Bay ‘Akoya’. But if you’re simply in the mood to devour a dozen delectable oysters while soaking in the tranquil river views, pull up a chair at the shed. It’s friendly in every sense of the word: pets, families and BYO welcome.

shucking oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Taste freshly shucked oysters at Broken Bay Pearl Farm. (Image: James Horan)

Central Coast farms to pick your own fruit

While the Central Coast is known for its breathtaking 40 beaches and 80-kilometre coastline, its lush hinterland is equally impressive – abundant with orchards and agriculturally rich farmland. And when it comes to the simple joy of picking your own fruit, the Central Coast is a ripe playground.

Family-owned Meliora Farm at Peats Ridge is an orchard that blends conventional, biodynamic and organic philosophies. Third-generation farmer Tim Kemp and his wife Elise are dedicated to honouring the family legacy by growing a rich variety of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins and avocados. In late May, roam the sustainable and nutrient-dense property during ‘Pick Your Own’ weekends.

Eastcoast Beverages is another bountiful citrus orchard boasting over 60 hectares of fruit. From June you can learn about the cultivation of high-quality ingredients – like lemons, limes, grapefruit and oranges – by touring both the farm and factory before setting out and picking your own straight from the source. You can also sample an array of citrus-inspired sweet and savoury treats at their on-site cafe, Bambino’s .

If it’s just juicy oranges you’re after, Cedar Farm in Dooralong is a must-visit. Located about 30 minutes north of Peats Ridge, it features 15 flourishing orchards and over 3000 orange trees – with take-home bags during the season (from July) at low prices. Not bad for a fruity weekend haul.

woman picking oranges at Oranges at Dooralong — Pick your own citrus fruits on the Central Coast. (Image: James Vodicka)

Organic dining

What makes the Central Coast hinterland so special is the unwavering respect the communities have for their cherished backyard. Locally owned and operated farms are all striving for more sustainable practices and methods to both enhance biodiversity and reduce environmental impact, each with a heartwarming food philosophy.

The Food Farm in Wyong Creek believes good food is worth both the work and the wait. Devoted to regenerative farming, first-generation ‘farmily’ Tim Eyes and Hannah Greenshields are recognised for their grass-fed, grass-finished beef and pasture-raised, gold medal-winning chickens. With an open gate policy, The Food Farm encourages visitors to swing by and try some of their slow-grown produce at their small ‘honesty’ farm shop. With no staff, you can pick up a few quality cuts of meat and pasteurised eggs, leaving the owing amount in cash or via eftpos.

Keeping the spirit of generational organic farming alive is Fanelli Organics . Nestled in the Central Coast’s scenic and sleepy Mangrove Mountain, founders Eden and Louise Fanelli own over 45 hectares of plentiful farmland and orchards that produce a huge range of organic fruit and vegetables, like purple Dutch carrots, blood oranges, broccoli and Tuscan kale. A true home-grown operation, Fanelli Organics shares its fresh produce with local restaurants and community markets, including the beloved markets at Like Minds Cafe at Avoca Beach every Wednesday afternoon.

farmers holding fresh produce picked at Fanelli Organics — See where your food comes from at Fanelli Organics.

Paddock-to-plate dining

High-quality ingredients go hand in hand with premium dining, and the Central Coast is home to several paddock-to-plate restaurants that showcase its diverse and rich agriculture. Paired with warm, grassroots hospitality, there are culinary triumphs, new menus and revered chefs constantly popping up, putting the local dining scene firmly on the map.

Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce. Nestled in thick bushland with wraparound verandahs, floral gardens and an idyllic dam, the gourmet homestead and bakehouse is unlike any restaurant on the Central Coast. Here, head chef Reece Collins and his team serve up an impressive breakfast and lunch menu that oozes rustic charm. Pull up a comfy armchair on the expansive deck, listen to birdsong, and tuck into flavoursome dishes like the farmhouse Benedict with honey-cured ham, lemon myrtle hollandaise and Warrigal gremolata, or the hearty beef brisket pie with confit garlic potato purée and rainbow chard.

woman writing in notebook next to a table of food at Saddles, Central Coast food — Taste country-style cooking at Saddles. (Image: Destination NSW)

Delivering a slice of sophistication and luxury to the shores and bushland of Bouddi Peninsula is Bells at Killcare . One of the few boutique resorts on the Central Coast, it’s known for its premium service and five-star suites, as well as its bountiful kitchen gardens that boast an orchard, olive trees, avocado trees, free-range hens and a honey bee hive.

Cameron Cansdell has returned to Bells at Killcare as head chef, bringing his expertise to the casual yet refined menus that feature a raw bar with Oscietra caviar, freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and Moreton Bay bugs, all served alongside optional matched wines. Sample some of Australia’s best regional wines and standout dishes, like roasted Wollemi duck with grilled leeks, rocket, grilled grapes and 10-year-aged balsamic, or the shareworthy salt-crusted snapper with herb salad and salsa, before roaming the picturesque gardens, wine in hand.

cocktail at Bells At Killcare — Sample incredible wine, cocktails and dishes at Bells At Killcare. (Image: Nikki To)

Plan your next visit to the delicious Central Coast.

All the questions you have ever wanted to ask about taking a cruise