The most popular cruise destinations for Aussies in 2026
Cruising season is well underway in Australia, with some of the world's most impressive ships voyaging in our waters.
As Aussies start to plan their next cruise, 9Travel chatted with Genevieve Thompson, a seasoned cruise expert at Flat Beds Tour + Cruise, to get the inside scoop.
Here are the most in-demand destinations that Aussies are looking at - and how to save money when you book.
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Cruising season is well underway in Australia Getty
Cruises to Japan
Japan has seen a huge increase in travellers from Australia in the last few years. And that's true for cruises in the region, too.
"Cruising in Japan is very popular due to the recent increase in costs associated with land touring," Gen tells 9Travel.
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As a way to manage overtourism and support local communities, foreign visitors will be charged higher entry fees at places like UNESCO World Heritage sites, temples, and national parks.
Accommodation taxes in certain regions of Japan have also gone up.
See Japan away from the crowds. Getty
Cruising offers travellers a chance to see a different side of Japan, away from the typical tourist sites. Though it's a relatively small country, Japan is a long chain of islands with a lot to see and do.
A Japan cruise is a great way to check things off your itinerary without the logistical hassle of figuring out your itinerary.
Europe cruises
Gen says that European cruises are especially popular right now - even more so than mainland river cruises
"Hot destinations right now include Malta, Sardinia, and the Greek Islands," she says.
Sardinia is beautiful in the shoulder season. Getty
These Mediterranean destinations have everything you want from a cruise holiday: warm weather, beautiful islands and beaches, interesting port cities and plenty of history. The
The Mediterranean cruise season is generally between April and November.
To avoid crowds, you're best to visit in the shoulder season - September, October, and November. You'll also likely be able to snap up a good deal on your room, too.
"We advise clients to book 18 months in advance for the best rates and availability," says Gen.
Norway is stunning. Getty
Norwegian coastal cruises are also gaining popularity among travellers, Gen tells us.
Often touted as the world's most beautiful journey, these cruises are typically smaller and focused on the experience. Expect to see dramatic fjords and mountains, charming small towns, and adventurous excursions.
The best time to cruise the Norwegian Fjords is between May and August, for longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures.
Canada and Alaska cruises
Gen says that people who visit Canada and Alaska aren't just cruising.
"We have also seen a huge increase in clients travelling to Canada and Alaska who are now booking cruise line, land and cruise packages," she says.
It's such a beautiful part of the world (and quite a long flight away), so it's worth crossing off as much as possible while you're there.
An Alaska cruise is on many peoples' bucket lists. Getty
How to save money when booking a cruise
Gen says there are two main ways to snag a bargain on a cruise: book early, and be flexible.
"There are some great last-minute river cruises available for 2026 if clients can be flexible about the month they can travel," she says.
For ocean cruises, it's a good idea to try and book 18 months in advance for the best rates.
