Sydney named as one of the most stunning cruise ports in the world - but not the best
Departing from a port is one of the highlights of a cruise.
In fact, many ships host fun 'sailaway' parties as ships leave port, giving cruisers a last glimpse of their destination.
Meanwhile, passengers gather on the decks when arriving into ports of call, too.
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Valletta, Malta is the worlds most scenic port, according to research. Getty
Waving to locals on the shore as the ship blows its horn makes a great memory. But not all ports are the same.
Some are in industrial areas outside of the cities or towns they serve, making them a little less than scenic.
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However, there are plenty of dazzling port destinations that offer a stunning welcome, and a new survey has compiled the best.
European cruise ports dominate the rankings, offering some of the most memorable water arrivals.
Our very own Sydney made it into the top ten, in equal seventh place.
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However, Sydney, Australia made it into the top ten, in equal seventh place. Getty
Sailing past the Harbour Bridge and Opera House is a dream for many holidaymakers from around the world.
The city's Overseas Passenger Terminal was on the list, but of course White Bay is another scenic place where cruise ships dock.
Valetta in Malta, a UNESCO site, was named the world's most breathtaking port to arrive into, according to AllClear Travel Insurance.
Ports in Argentina, Italy and Sweden followed, each offering jaw-dropping views for passengers.
The remote port of Ushuaia in Argentina ranked as the second most attractive cruise port.
Ships depart from there to go to Antarctica, with the backdrop of the snow-covered peaks of the Martial Mountains.
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Lisbon, Portugal skyline at Sao Jorge Castle at sunset. Getty Images/iStockphoto
Completing the top three is Palermo's Cruise Terminal in Sicily, where visitors are welcomed by a blend of historic architecture, colourful streets and views of the sparkling sea.
Letitia Smith, Head of Communications at AllClear, said: "When cruising, often it's the incredible moments you sail into a new port for the first time that really take your breath away.
"Around the world, there are cruise ports and harbours that are set in some spectacular destinations, and those who love to sail around the world will understand how exciting that feeling really is."
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Ushuaia bay from Martial Glacier, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina Getty
Stockholm, ranking in fourth place, treats passengers to an eye-catching approach through its array of colourful cottages that are dotted across the skyline, following all the way into the city centre.
Lisbon's port also ranks highly with ships sailing beneath the iconic 25 de Abril Bridge before docking with views of the city's terracotta rooftops from the top deck.
One famous port which didn't make the top ten was Miami.
Regarded as the biggest cruise port in the world, ships line up at the Florida hub.
Each cruise line has its own terminal, with MSC's new one the biggest.
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Aerial view of Ostermalm Stockholm Capital of Sweden Scandinavia Northern Europe Getty
World's most beautiful cruise ports
1. Valletta Cruise Port, Malta
2. Port of Ushuaia, Argentina
3. Port of Palermo, Italy
4. Stadsgården Cruise Terminal, Stockholm, Sweden
5. Nassau Cruise Port, Bahamas
6. Aruba Cruise Terminal, Oranjestad, Aruba
7. Lisbon Cruise Port, Portugal
=7 Overseas Passenger Terminal, Sydney
9. Port Sultan Qaboos, Muscat, Oman
= 9. Ege Port, Kușadası, Turkey
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