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.

From cycling and comedy to boating and begonia appreciation, there’s an event in regional Victoria that’s sure to have you circling dates on your calendar.

1. Festival of Sails

the Melbourne to Geelong passage race, Festival of Sails 2025 — The Melbourne to Geelong passage race will be held for its 183rd year. (Image: Salty Dingo)

When: 24–26 January
Where: Melbourne and Geelong

This five-day regatta of sailing and onshore entertainment at Geelong’s waterfront includes Australia’s oldest sporting event, the Melbourne to Geelong passage race which, in 2026, will be held for its 183rd year. But you don’t have to be a yachtie, sailor or boat-enthusiast to enjoy the nautical excitement; there’s also a three-day line-up of entertainment, food and live music, including the anchoring of tall ships – ever a firm family favourite.

2. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

cyclists during the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race — Catch the best cyclists as they wind through Victoria’s coastal towns. (Image: Visit Victoria)

When: 31 January – 1 February
Where: The Bellarine Peninsula

Meandering (at pace) along the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast is this annual cycling event that welcomes everyone from families to serious athletes. Since its beginnings in 2015, the race has become a huge hit with spectators flocking along to cheer on Lycra-clad competitors. Starting and finishing in Geelong’s Velo Village, this is the hub of the non-race activity with food and drink, roaming performers, lawn games and face painting.

3. Riverboats Music Festival

the performers at Riverboats Music Festival, Murray River — The annual music festival is staged under majestic red gums by the Murray River.

When: 13–15 February
Where: Echuca–Moama

Get along to bop and sway under the canopy of red gums at this annual music festival . Hosted by the twin towns of Echuca–Moama, the stage is set for Murray River-adjacent revelling as historic paddlesteamers peacefully chug alongside the event. As well as music, there’s dancing, food trucks and plenty of atmosphere to absorb.

4. Neerim ArtsFest

the Neerim ArtsFest south sculptures — Admire stunning works at Neerim ArtsFest. (Image: Nicky Cawood)

When: 28 February – 15 March
Where: Gippsland

This biennial Gippsland festival celebrates sculptural artists with an esteemed award in two categories, large outdoor and small indoor. The public is invited to enjoy the works over the exhibition period as they’re placed throughout Neerim South and surrounding venues. For 2026, the theme ‘The Spirit Soars’ leads artists to create stunning pieces that explore the expression of freedom in a thrilling visual capacity.

5. ChillOut Festival

a street parade during the LGBTQIA+ ChillOut Festival — Think colourful street parades and burlesque performances.

When: 5–9 March
Where: Daylesford

Pride in the country has been cheered on every March in Daylesford since 1997 with the riotous annual LGBTQIA+ ChillOut Festival . This colourful regional spectacle is an inclusive celebration of diversity that plays out across a vibrant parade, burlesque performances, a bush dance and a carnival. Get bedazzled, find a wig and stick on the false eyelashes for this fun party.

6. Port Fairy Folk Festival

Missy Higgins at the Port Fairy Folk Festival — Celebrate folk music at the Port Fairy Folk Festival. (Image: Lucinda Goodwin)

When: 6–9 March
Where: Port Fairy

In 2026, this beloved festival will be one year shy of its 50th anniversary. From folk fans to festival-lovers, this long-running event brings plenty of good vibes to guarantee an incredible experience. While music is at the heart of the festival, there’s also a range of workshops, exhibitions and family entertainment across dance, film and folk art. For its 49th year, the line-up so far includes Blair Dunlop, Elephant Sessions, and the musical duo Felicity Urquhart and Josh Cunningham.

7. The Ballarat Begonia Festival

a woman admiring flowers at The Ballarat Begonia Festival — Gasp at delicate blooms at The Ballarat Begonia Festival.

When: 7–9 March
Where: Ballarat

In bloom since 1953, this horticultural event places a collection of rare begonias at the centre of festivities, honouring the flower’s presence in Ballarat since the 1800s. During its history, the event has been visited by Queen Elizabeth II and, in 2015, it featured the launch of the largest outdoor Lego flower. Apart from a display of around 500 species of the flower of the moment, there’s also a begonia parade, entertainment, live music, food and presentations.

8. The Bendigo Easter Festival

Chinese dragon Dai Gum Loong dance at The Bendigo Easter Festival — The majestic Chinese dragon Dai Gum Loong dance is an annual tradition at The Bendigo Easter Festival.

When: 3–6 April
Where: Bendigo

Held in the city’s Rosalind Park, the annual Easter Festival has been a highlight of Bendigo’s calendar of events since 1871. A carnival of colourful activity, the festival welcomes everyone and rolls out the good times with everything from a Good Friday Easter egg hunt to live music and performances, a Rotary market and Gala Parade. Don’t miss the world’s longest imperial dragon rhythmically roaming the historic streets as part of the Easter Sunday festivities.

9. Grape Escape

a glass of wine at the Grampians Grape Escape — Enjoy a wine tasting experience. (Image: Anthony Evans Photography)

When: 1–3 May
Where: The Grampians

Backdropped by gorgeous Grampians/Gariwerd National Park, this much-loved bacchanalian-inspired festival of food, wine and music is a high-priority for gourmands. Held at Halls Gap Reserve, a Tasting Ticket includes a tumbler that unlocks free wine, beer and cider tastings and, if you are partaking, there’s a shuttle bus to get you back to your digs afterwards. Be sure to book your accommodation early for this one – its popularity is undisputed.

10. Comedy in the Vines

Comedy in the Vines at Cherryhill Orchards — Get the good times rolling at Cherryhill Orchards. (Image: Saige Prime)

When: 24–26 October
Where: Yarra Valley

The premise of Yarra Valley’s Comedy in the Vines , held at Cherryhill Orchards, is that wine and laughs pair well. Few arguments can be made, so get along this month (or next year), to have a giggle and a gamay. This year, taking the stage is the likes of Merrick Watts, Tommy Little, Ray O’Leary and Takashi Wakasugi. There are also masterclasses, a riesling and oyster shot bar, and plenty of food and music between gigs.

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