Aussie cruisers sailed over 60 ships and spent $8.4 billion this season – here’s what the experts predict for 2025/26

• Aussie love affair with cruise continued this season, with more sailing than ever, our season wrap shows.
• Next year we will see fewer ships, so more fly-cruises.
• Our panel says book early to avoid rising prices.

Aussie cruisers were spoilt for choice on destinations and experienced many new ships during the 2024/25 season, cruise bosses say in a Cruise Passenger survey at the end of six months of sailings.

While Australia’s final figures are still being calculated, the global number of people who took an ocean cruise during 2024 reached an astonishing 34.6 million worldwide – a 9.3% increase on the previous year.

Joel Katz, Cruise Lines International Association Managing Director, said his members have reported strong demand in virtually every area of cruising, not only within local waters but around the world.

It was the year that saw P&O Australia close and Carnival expand its year-round fleet. Unrest in the Pacific and extreme weather events also affected cruising.

But Australia’s love affair with holidays at sea continued unabated.

Kara Glamore, VP Sales and Marketing, Carnival Cruise Line Australia, told us family, multi-generational and short break cruises were among the major trends this season.

“It was a great summer for Carnival Cruise Line and P&O Cruises Australia. Our point of difference is that we are here year-round from Sydney and Brisbane, so we’re now turning our attention to offering great value holidays through autumn and winter.

“This year we’re taking more than half a million guests on a Carnival cruise in Australia. 

“I think one of the key trends for us has been the rise in short break cruises – those quick three or four-day getaways to recharge,” she said.

Norwegian Cruise Lines Ben Angell, Vice President & Managing Director of the Asia Pacific, told us the company experienced record revenues.

“Whilst our core guests from this part of the world continue to be in their 50s and 60s, we are seeing younger guests and multigenerational families embracing cruise, and the solo travel market continues to grow.”

Gavin Smith, Vice President and Managing Director of Royal Caribbean in the region said: “We’ve just wrapped another successful season of creating memorable vacations for our guests and we are looking forward to the highly anticipated arrival of Anthem of The Seas and Voyager of the Seas sailing from Sydney and Brisbane, respectively, this summer.

“These vacations offer a varied line-up, from short getaways to a longer sailing from Asia, and new experiences like the show-stopping ‘We Will Rock You’ musical production, ice-skating shows and six exclusive family adventures created by Royal Caribbean and the Wiggly Friends.”

Katz reported: “Recent summers have shown that Australians have lost none of their passion for cruising, and the past season is no exception.

“The past summer has brought a huge amount of choice for Australian cruisers, and the diversity of experiences has been strong.

“We have seen more than 60 ships operating in Australia during 2024-25, including some high-profile first timers like Silversea’s Silver Nova, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Sun, Cunard’s Queen Anne and Princess Cruises’ Crown Princess.

“The number of ships in our region might have been slightly down on the previous year, but the amount of choice is still amongst the highest we have experienced in this region. We expect to see encouraging growth in the Australian market when regional data is available in coming weeks, coming after record figures at the global level.”

He added that Australians were now turning to fly-cruise.

“There are signs Australians are exploring cruise options further from home, opting for fly-cruise destinations in Europe, Asia and North America in greater numbers. Cruise lines report that guests who have sailed previously in local waters are now keen to cruise in new destinations in other parts of the world. 

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Here’s what the experts say about 2024/25

How was the 2024/25 season for Carnival brands in terms of booking numbers, and were there any outstanding trends?

Glamore: We are really pleased to see strong bookings continue for Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter following the transition of P&O.

We’re definitely seeing an increase in the number of multi-generational families choosing a Carnival cruise as a way to spend time together, and now we’re a four-ship fleet in Australia, there’s a Carnival ship for everyone! 

Angell: Our global full-year 2024 and recent Q4 results were extremely positive, achieving record revenue, and the company remains at an optimal booked position on a 12-month forward basis. In our APAC region, 2024/25 was another great season for NCL, both as a source market for outbound fly-cruise and in terms of local deployment. We continue to see strong demand for our premium cruise product in the region and fantastic guest feedback around our new More at Sea brand positioning.” 

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Did you notice any cost-of-living issues changing spending patterns?  

Glamore: Economic uncertainty does have an impact on the travel industry however cruising remains an affordable holiday option compared to land-based holidays, and in particular Carnival Cruise Line will always be attractive for families and anyone looking for a great value holiday, whether it’s a group of friends, a couple or a multi-generation family. We’ve increased the number of short break cruises to meet demand, and they’re a great option for people wanting a quick affordable getaway. 

Australians still want to enjoy time with loved ones, and take a break, even with cost-of-living pressures. And a cruise is perfect for that because it’s an escape, whether for 3 days or 10 days. People want value for money, and that’s exactly what Carnival Cruise Line offers. 

Angell:  Our guests tend to be less focused on cost, and more focused on value. That’s where our More at Sea proposition sets us apart… Ultimately, we’re not seeing the current economic climate impact our guests’ booking habits and spending patterns. Research has shown time and time again that despite cost-of-living pressures, travel remains a priority, almost a non-negotiable, for Australian travellers, who would rather tighten their belts in other areas than sacrifice a holiday.”

What were Australian cruisers enthusiastic about in terms of destination and itineraries? Were there any changes noted? There were problems in the Pacific this season – what impact did this have or likely to have on the long term view?

Glamore: Queensland remains our guests’ favourite destination – I mean, who doesn’t love a cruise to the Great Barrier Reef or Whitsundays. We’re making 127 port calls in Queensland in 2025. 

“The Port Vila earthquake at Christmas was so heartbreaking – Carnival has close ties to Vanuatu and it was so devastating to see lives lost, and businesses in ruins. 

“Our ships can’t wait to return to Port Vila, and we’ve been working closely with the authorities in Vanuatu on when that is likely to happen, which is hopefully in a couple of months. For now, all voyages until the end of May that were due to visit Vila have had their itineraries changed.

“Since the earthquake, we’ve been re-directing our ships to Mystery Island or Santo when possible, because Vanuatu is a really important destination for us and we want to continue helping their economic recovery from the quake.  The South Pacific remains a key destination for Carnival – that won’t change. 

Angell: Australians love to explore, and NCL guests know that whether they want to travel ‘near or far’, there’s an NCL itinerary to suit.

“Europe continues to perform strongly, both the Mediterranean, a traditional favourite, as well as Northern Europe, with increased interest in our seven-day sailings in 2026 which are ideal to pair with a land-based package either pre- or post-cruise, something that we’re catering for with our open-jaw voyages which enable exploration of two different areas before and after their cruise.

“Besides Europe, Alaska and Hawaii, as well as Asia – Japan, a standout – continue to be popular for Australian cruisers.

“Closer to home, the South Pacific is increasingly a top favourite for Aussie/Kiwi guests and they particularly like the fact that we offer a range of immersive itineraries from four departure ports plus overnight stays in Bora Bora and Tahiti on select itineraries.

“Strong demand for our close-to-home offering, including Asia, the South Pacific and Australia and New Zealand – is a great lead into our 26/27 local season, offering five round-trip Sydney cruises including our first two 4-night Tassie Taster sailings.”

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How to avoid price rises for next season

Prices have been higher this season – do you see prices continuing to rise next season?  And can you estimate by how much? 

Glamore: Carnival Cruise Line has always been committed to being accessible and affordable, especially for families. There are a lot of variables that go into pricing and Carnival has a lot of onboard inclusions, making it a great value option. We think with four ships we’re able to give people a lot of different options when it comes to choosing the right cruise. 

Angell: With cruise lines reporting record-breaking forward booked positions, many cruisers are booking early to secure the best price, their preferred sailing and stateroom.

“Our guests tell us they prioritise value over cost when making a holiday decision and there’s no doubt they appreciate the value offered when cruising with NCL and enjoying our More at Sea inclusions, such as premium beverages, additional specialty dining meals and inclusions, more wi-fi minutes and shore excursion credits in every port.

“We’ll be launching a new season of sailings soon, so we advise keen cruisers to keep an eye out and book early.”

What’s next for Aussies in the coming season?

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Is the Australian fly cruise market growing, and if so, where do you see that growth?

Glamore: Now Carnival has expanded to four ships sailing in Australia, we’re really excited to see more Americans coming to Australia to take a Carnival cruise. Until now, around 15% of our guests sailing on Carnival Splendor and Carnival Luminosa in Australia have been from the US – so we’re looking at ways to increase that by harnessing the power of our global marketing now we have 2 more ships, Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter.

And on the flip side, we’re looking at ways to entice more Aussies to take a cruise out of the United States and our other destinations. The Caribbean is obviously hugely popular right now, and Carnival is launching our own exclusive private island in Grand Bahama in July this year – called Celebration Key – which is going to be a game changer for guests with endless relaxation and recreation options. It’s just so exciting, and we are counting down the days to it opening. Carnival also sails from LA and Texas to Mexico and the Caribbean – and with so many direct flights these days to Australia, it’s becoming a very realistic holiday option for Australians. 

Asia is an emerging cruise destination and we’re excited to be part of that. Carnival Adventure and Carnival Luminosa have Asia itineraries on sale for 2026/27 and they’re proving very popular. For the first time, Carnival Adventure will be taking guests to Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam from Singapore. Cruising in Asia is a great way to explore multiple countries without the hassle of planes and buses.  

Angell: “I consider there to be three key approaches to deliver on cruise growth opportunities within the region.

“Firstly, Australia is fortunate to have a highly successful homeport cruising model, celebrated for unprecedented growth in recent years. Hugely popular with Australians – approximately 1 million Australians cruise within Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific each year – domestic cruising also acts as an ‘on-ramp’ for first-time cruisers from the region.

“Secondly, Australia is a world-class tourism destination and on the bucket list for many inbound cruise visitors from around the world. Popular with those responsible for measuring inbound arrivals, spend and dispersal, these visitors often combine a land holiday with their cruise, stay longer, spend more and visit more destinations throughout Australia.

“Collectively, homeport cruising and inbound cruise arrivals inject AU$5 billion into the Australian economy each year, and both are critical to the future success of cruise in the region.

“But the third and perhaps most exciting opportunity – particularly if you are as enthusiastic about promoting the value, convenience and desirability of a cruise holiday as I am – is the outbound Fly Cruise.

“Fly Cruise, flying to join a cruise in an international country outside of Australia, remains largely untapped in this market. In 2023, 85% of Australians who cruised did so within Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. This means just 200,000 Australians cruised in other parts of the world.

“Contrast that to the millions of Australians who travelled overseas in 2023 and the opportunity is clear. How many Australians would consider an overseas cruise holiday if they fully appreciated the exceptional value, convenience and almost endless variety a cruise offers?

“And best of all, Australians who fly overseas to cruise typically do so in addition to land-based holiday plans. A win/win for the industry and the travel consultant making the booking.

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The New Zealand Cruise Association recently claimed they were losing more than 40 per cent of port calls.  Are you cutting back on New Zealand itineraries?

Glamore: Carnival Splendor has 12 voyages to New Zealand between now and mid-2027 so yes, we are continuing to visit New Zealand.   Carnival Corporation & plc is actively working with NZCA, CLIA, the NZ Government and Ports to see how cruise can grow again – and it’s been great to see more engagement with the NZ Government since the decline in cruise ship visits overall. 

Angell: “The most important thing to achieve a successful, sustainable cruise industry for New Zealand is to have clear policies and processes for cruise lines, destinations, port authorities and the environment which encourage and enable future deployment planning, and certainty.

“Having reasonable cost structures in place is also vital, so it’s imperative that we, as cruise lines, work alongside CLIA Australasia and the New Zealand Cruise Association to address concerns with the government to help support and grow the New Zealand cruise sector and ensure it remains competitive.

“We are in this for the long term, and all stakeholders must continue collaborating and communicating to protect and enhance our sector, not just for cruise lines, but for our guests and the ports and many businesses which benefit economically from cruise visitation.

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Anything else about this season or next you would like to say? 

Glamore: We’re super excited to be bringing back the popular Grinchmas In July cruises this winter – and for the first time, on three ships! The Grinch-themed cruises are going to be on Carnival Adventure and Carnival Encounter, as well as Carnival Splendor. 

“There are 10 Grinch themed sailings from Sydney and Brisbane this July – we’ll be transforming the ships into magical winter wonderlands, we’ll have the Ugly Christmas Sweater competitions, and plenty of Christmas-themed activities and dining options. It’s part of our long-standing partnership with Dr. Seuss and I can’t wait to share this FUN festive experience with more of our guests this winter.

Angell: There is always MORE to get excited about, so watch this space! Whether guests want to sail near to home or far away, NCL has all your favourite cruise destinations covered.

Closer to home, we are thrilled to have Norwegian Spirit returning to local waters for the next two summer seasons. During her 2026/27 season, Norwegian Spirit will sail our first-ever round-trip Sydney sailings, including two four-night taster cruises to Tasmania – the ideal opportunity for first-time cruisers and those who haven’t experienced More at Sea with NCL to try cruising with us. We’ll also be debuting itineraries exploring Australia’s wine regions, with overnight stays in Melbourne and Adelaide so guests can spend more time in regions such as the Yarra Valley, McLaren Vale or the Barossa Valley.

“Of course, we’re also excited about Norwegian Aqua’s inaugural season this year, and we can’t wait to hear guest feedback about our new Prima-Plus Class, the most spacious ship in her category, boasting more outdoor space, more dining and bar options, our brand’s first-ever Thai specialty restaurant Sukhothai, and plant-based venue Planterie, as well as industry firsts, such as the Slidecoaster, a hybrid rollercoaster waterslide.

“Most importantly, wherever travellers want to cruise, NCL has their favourite destinations covered, Australia and New Zealand, the South Pacific and Asia, to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Hawaii, Alaska and beyond.

Smith: “We are excited about the debut of Star of the Seas this August sailing from Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida, that will set a new benchmark for innovative travel, inspiring more Australian thrill-seekers to consider this type of holiday – whether it’s part of a wider international family holiday or ticking off a bucket list worthy adventure. Europe continues to be a desirable destination for Australian travellers, who will be even more convinced to pack their bags with Legend of the Seas, set with a thrilling Crown’s Edge sky walk and deluxe swim up bars, travelling out of Barcelona in 2026.  We look forward to the season ahead.”