‘Easy to see why’: Affordable long weekend trip you may never have considered

Despite the ongoing cost-of-living crisis Aussies are still desperate to cruise, new figures reveal.

They’re just opting for shorter voyages, with travel agents at Cruise Guru telling nine.com.au long weekend cruises are booming.

Bookings for short cruises were up a massive 171 per cent in the first quarter of this year, the firm said.

Michael Betteridge, Chief Commercial and Operating Officer, said Aussies are looking for an easy and affordable getaway and with cruises generally including all meals it’s a great budget-friendly holiday.

“It really comes down to timing and money,” he told nine.com.au.

“A short cruise can solve both problems at once, and it’s priced in a way that makes the value obvious when you add up the costs and do the maths on a land-based getaway.

Read more

Royal Caribbean brings three ships to Australia - plus more cruise news to get excited about

“People have likely cruised once, liked it, and are now looking at it as an easy getaway without the fuss of planning.”

Cruises are also unique in that you can just get on board and everything is done for you.

There’s no need to arrange transfers, debate car hire, visit the supermarket and excursions are also easy to book too.

“For someone who is time poor, that’s worth a lot,” he said. “It’s telling that 77 per cent of people who try a short cruise go on to book another one.

“Once people experience how little planning it takes, they tend to come back for more.

Read more

‘Most important’: All the things you need to know before a cruise

“And when you factor in the value, around $800 for two people on three-night cruise, it’s easy to see why so many people are choosing to sail.”

Short cruises generally only stay around Australia, visiting spots like Moreton Island near Brisbane and Hobart in Tasmania.

Some just spend a few days at sea. But travellers don’t mind at all.

“Sydney and Brisbane departures are the strongest sellers for 2026, mostly three- and four-night itineraries,” Michael said.

“It’s less about chasing an exotic destination and more about how easy the escape is, get on board Friday, and you’re home by Monday without having flown or driven anywhere or planned a thing.”

Michael also said booking early is the best way to find a bargain.

There’s one time of year everyone decides they want to go.

“We’ve seen searches for short cruises spike in January every year, lining up with early bird sales offers, so that’s a good window to watch,” he said