Top 10 Cruise Ports In Australasia
Unfortunately, for so many of us, it is a location that just seems to be too far out of the way for us to have any chance of visiting and even if we could afford the time and cost in getting there, the thought of all that expense and effort to just see a small part of the area is off putting.
That is where taking a cruise holiday as part of your visit to Australasia can really make the difference as you can spend time in the city or cities that are of interest to you and then set sail for a week or so of exploring all that is on offer.
Most cruise ships set sail from either Sydney or Auckland and cross the Tasman but there are plenty of options for those wanting to take in even more of the area.
This top 10 list takes lots of things into account including the number of cruise ships and lines operating out of the port, what is on offer in the port and then our own personnel views on each destination.
Our Top 10 Cruise Ports In Australasia
Sydney, Australia
Known as the ‘capital of Rugby League’, it could also be said that Sydney is the cruise capital of Oceania as not only is the main hub for numerous cruise lines, but it is also one of the most popular ports of call as well.
The city is home to a major international airport that helps to make it a popular starting point for a cruise holiday in the region and with the need for many visitors to climatise first, why not spend a few days exploring its numerous attractions.
Amongst the most iconic are the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, both of which will likely be seen from your cruise ship, and the Royal Botanic Gardens- or why not do what the locals do and head for a NRL match up?
Auckland, New Zealand
The New Zealand capital city of Auckland is the 2nd most popular cruise port for lines in the region and is one of the most popular with cruisers as well.
The port is well connected to the world via Auckland international airport and has plenty options for those wanting to spend time in the city before setting sail.
Amongst the cities leading attractions is the iconic SkyTower, a trip up Mount Eden, the beautiful Karekare Beach or why not head to Mount Smart stadium to watch some of the country’s leading Rugby stars.
Brisbane, Australia
The Queensland city of Brisbane offers a fantastic climate and lots of opportunities to make the most of it at attractions such as the South Bank Parklands, the Mount Coot-Tha Summit Lookout or the Brisbane Botanic Gardens.
The CBD (city centre or downtown area) has been heavily redeveloped recently and offers lots of photo friendly spots to have a drink or a bite to eat whilst a trip to the iconic Suncorp Stadium (Lang Park) is a must for all sports fans.
Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington is one of the most beautiful cities on New Zealand’s north island and it is that natural beauty that is at the heart of many of the city’s main attractions.
A trip up Mount Victoria gives a great overview of the city and its beautiful coastline whilst Cuba Street is the place to be in the city centre.
Melbourne, Australia
The Victorian city of Melbourne is one of the region’s most famous cities and is know to sports fans around the world as the home of the Australian F1 GP, the Australian Open tennis tournament, the iconic MCG and it is home to the hugely successful Melbourne Storm.
If sport isn’t your thing, it is also home to the long running soap Neighbours but there is also so much more on offer including many museums, tourist attractions and simply taking in the skyscrapers of downtown whilst taking advantage of Melbourne’s vibrant coffee house scene.
Tauranga, New Zealand
Tauranga may be the least known port of call on this list, but it is simply a must visit for many cruise holidaymakers.
Many will take advantage of an excursion to the Lord of the Rings/Hobbit filming sets nearby or you can head to several caves, waterfalls and other natural beauty spots all found throughout the region.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch has lots of options for visitors including heading into the mountains and taking the Christchurch gondola for stunning views or taking a visit to one of the many beautiful lakes found nearby.
Those wanting to stay in the city itself will find lots on offer including the Quake City Museum that gives a great insight into the devastating 2011 earthquake.
Perth, Australia
Perth is the biggest city in western Australia and is a popular stopping off port for cruises heading between Asia and Australia, which use the nearby port of Fremantle.
The city itself is perhaps more laid back than the other large urban areas in Australia and that makes it a great place to stroll around and just take it in.
Popular excursions include river boat rides, vineyard tours and a boat ride to the picture perfect tropical Rottnest Island.
Adelaide, Australia
Adelaide is perhaps unfairly known as a ‘sleepy city’ but it certainly is true that is has a relaxed vibe but that is just part of its charm.
The city is home to numerous museums, gardens and other sites of interest whilst a trip to the Rundle Mall is also a must do for holidaymakers.
Darwin, Australia
Darwin, in Australia’s Northern Territory, is one of the most remote ports on offer in the region and that gives lots of opportunities for visitors to head out and explore.
Amongst the most popular excursions for cruise visitors is to take an airboat to see some of the local wildlife- including giant saltwater crocodiles.
