Should You Book a Christmas Cruise from Australia?

Should You Book a Christmas Cruise from Australia? Important Cruise Tips that You Need to Know

If the idea of swapping a Christmas BBQ for ocean views sounds like your kind of holiday, then a Christmas cruise might be your ticket to paradise. Christmas cruises have become a popular alternative for Australians looking to unwind, avoid holiday hosting stress, or simply exploring new destinations during the festive season.

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Should You Book a Christmas Cruise

By: Sally - Travel Writer

Here’s everything you need to know to decide if a holiday cruise is right for you.

Why Choose a Christmas Cruise?

Cruising over the holiday season can be a fantastic way to unwind and celebrate without the usual holiday prep. Here are a few reasons why Christmas cruising is becoming more popular:

Stress-Free Festivities

Leave behind the shopping lists, cooking, and cleaning, and let the crew handle everything from decorations to a lavish Christmas feast.

All-Inclusive Fun

Most Christmas cruises include special holiday meals, entertainment, and even Christmas trees onboard to keep the festive spirit alive.

Varied Destinations

From tropical getaways to cultural destinations, cruising from Australia offers something for most travellers – without long-haul flights.

Family-Friendly Activities

Cruises are great for all ages, with activities and amenities for kids, teens, and adults, making it an easy way to spend time with family without planning activities yourself.

Meet New Friends and Celebrate Together

If the holiday season sometimes feels a bit lonely, a cruise might be just the ticket! With group dining, themed activities, and social events on board, cruises offer plenty of chances to meet like-minded travellers and make new friends.

Popular Christmas Cruise Destinations from Australia

Wondering where a Christmas cruise from Australia might take you? Here are some fantastic options:

South Pacific Islands

Highlights: Christmas in the South Pacific can mean turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and all the holiday relaxation you could dream of.

Destinations: Fiji, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu are all popular destinations for Aussies looking to soak up some sunshine over the holidays.

New Zealand

Highlights: Experience a Kiwi Christmas with cruises visiting spots like Milford Sound, Auckland, and Wellington.

Activities: Expect scenic fjords, coastal views, and the unique chance to see New Zealand’s natural beauty during the warmer summer season.

Australian Coastal Cruises

Highlights: Stay closer to home with cruises around Australia’s coastline. Popular destinations include Tasmania, the Whitsundays, and even cruises up to tropical Queensland.

Why It’s Great: These cruises allow for an easy, no-fly holiday, perfect for a quick getaway while still enjoying the beauty of Australian shores.

Asia Cruises

Highlights: For those looking to venture a bit further, holiday cruises from Australia to destinations like Singapore, Indonesia, or Thailand are a great option.

Bonus: Celebrate Christmas with a mix of local cultures, cuisines, and festive decor at sea.

Is a Christmas Cruise Right for You?

While a Christmas cruise has plenty of perks, it might not be for everyone. Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros

Convenient: No need to plan meals, activities, or holiday decor – everything is taken care of.

Family Time: Cruises are designed for relaxation and togetherness, with something for all ages.

Unique Destinations: Experience new cultures or destinations without the hassle of planning every detail.

Cons

Peak Season Prices: The holiday season is a busy travel period, so cruises can be pricier than other times of the year.

Crowds: Christmas cruises are popular, so expect fuller ships and busier excursions.

Limited Flexibility: Cruises follow set itineraries, so they may not be ideal if you prefer a flexible schedule.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Christmas Cruise

Book Early – Christmas cruises are popular, so book ahead to get the best rooms and rates.
Pack for All Occasions – From formal holiday dinners to island excursions, pack versatile clothing for all the cruise activities.
Plan Excursions in Advance – Excursions tend to book up fast, especially during the holidays. Research and reserve ahead to ensure you don’t miss out on any memorable activities.
Consider Travel Insurance – While we all hope that any cruise trip we take will be smooth sailing, travel insurance can provide certain protection for some of the unexpected things that can go wrong. From cancelled cruises due to a natural disaster to unexpected health issues, having a travel insurance policy can reimburse you for some of your out-of-pocket expenses and help you to enjoy your Christmas cruise holiday with ease^.

FAQs

Is it expensive to take a Christmas cruise?

Depends on your personal financial situation, but it is always good to remember that holiday cruises are in high demand, and prices can be higher during this period. Booking early and looking for inclusive packages can help manage costs.

Are Christmas cruises suitable for children?

Absolutely! Many cruise lines offer kids’ clubs, holiday-themed activities, and even a visit from Santa, making it a family-friendly option.

How far in advance should I book a Christmas cruise?

It’s wise to book at least 6-12 months in advance, but you can also grab wonderful last-minute offers to fill the cruise’s empty slots. Christmas cruises tend to be very popular, and cabins fill up quickly.

Ready to Book Your Christmas Cruise?

If you’re thinking about making the most of the holidays with a cruise, Fast Cover Travel Insurance can be here to help protect you from port to port. Get a quote today and cruise with ease!

^ You need to specify ‘Cruise’ at the time of policy purchase to include cover for travelling on cruise ships. Max age 89 years of age, however, lower age limits may apply depending on the cover required and policy chosen. Eligibility criteria, policy terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub limits apply.

Any advice is general only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Consider the PDS prior to deciding on which product is right for you.

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About the author

Sally is a travel insurance specialist and content writer at Fast Cover who enjoys researching new destinations for the monthly newsletters and Spotlight posts. A dumpling connoisseur and food blogger at heart, she has outlasted everyone at the stand-up desk and is the only reason the office plants are still alive.

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