One in three Australians are considering going on a cruise this year, according to new research from the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) Australia, with Sydney the number one destination.
Interest in cruise holidays has surging over the past two years. TTF research shows 33 per cent of Australians surveyed are planning to go on a cruise this summer or within the next 12 months, up from 26 per cent from January 2024.
Sydney and Airlie Beach/the Whitsundays ranked equal first as the most popular Australian cruise destinations for 2026.
TTF CEO Margy Osmond said the increased interest in cruising was welcome news for the tourism sector, bringing more visitors and increased spending to destinations across the country.
“By working together, government and the cruise industry can ensure this growing demand is met, while maximising the benefits for local communities and the wider economy,” she said.
An increasing number of younger Australians are behind the rise in cruise holidays, with 44 per cent of Australians under 35 looking to go on a cruise this year, compared with just 35 per cent two years ago.
Interest also remains strong among 35 to 44 years olds, a key demographic for families, with 42 per cent considering a cruise this year, particularly one within Australia, compared with just 20 per cent of Australians aged 65 and over.
“Cruises are increasingly catering to younger travellers and families, with incredible new onboard experiences,” Ms Osmond said.
“From surf simulators and indoor skydiving to trapeze schools, mini golf and even salt therapy lounges, innovation never stops. Add world-class dining and spectacular shows, and there’s something for everyone.”
Ms Osmond said the popularity of capital cities such as Sydney showed that Australians are seeking a mix of iconic city stops and classic coastal destinations this coming year.”
Carnival Cruise Line's Assistant Vice President Sales & Marketing Anton Loeb said: "Carnival is definitely seeing more young people – particularly millennials – embrace the great value of a cruising holiday.
"In fact, about one-third of our guests are now aged under 35, reflecting the growing appeal of cruising for families and younger Australians wanting a stress-free holiday, with so much included in the cabin fare, including dining and entertainment.”
Royal Caribbean, Australia and New Zealand, Vice President and Managing Director Gavin Smith said: “2026 is an exciting year for Royal Caribbean in Australia. We’ve welcomed Anthem of the Seas to Sydney for the first time, giving Australian holidaymakers the chance to experience first-hand the innovative thrills, world-class entertainment and signature flavours that have made this ship a global favourite.”
Taronga Conservation Society Australia CEO Cameron Kerr AO said: “Cruise passengers make up an important part of our visitor community at Taronga Zoo Sydney and we’re thrilled to see cruise holidays on the rise this year.
“Passengers stopping in Sydney can get up close with animals from Australia and around the world, creating memorable experiences with their families whilst knowing that every dollar spent at Taronga has the power to protect and save wildlife.”
Virgin Australia relaunches service for cruise passengers
Virgin Australia has reinstated its seasonal flight check-in and baggage drop service at Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal (OPT), allowing cruise travellers to check-in for flights and drop off checked baggage immediately after disembarking a cruise.
The service was initially launched in 2018 in partnership with OACIS and paused amid the pandemic to enable a smoother, luggage-free journey for guests exploring Sydney, while helping to reduce airport congestion during the peak summer travel period.
Once the luggage is checked in at the OPT, it is transported by Virgin Australia to Sydney Airport, where it is loaded onto the guest’s Virgin Australia flight ahead of departure.
Learn more here.
