Cruises From Sydney: Fun Getaways for Australian Travelers
The Best Getaway Cruises From Sydney
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, you may be itching to plan a relaxing escape. Look no further than a cruise getaway that starts in Sydney and heads out to the wonders of the South Pacific and nearby coastline gems.
Explore unique natural wonders, ranging from the incredible wildlife in New Zealand’s national parks to a geothermal hot spring where you can really unwind. Planning a cruise with Holland America is your stress-free answer to discovering experiences too good to hurry through.
Your Adventure Starts in Sydney
Your Australia cruise with Holland America begins in its largest city, Sydney. This vibrant area’s natural beauty sets the stage for an idyllic adventure. Get a head start on your dream getaway with an afternoon at one of the many brilliant beaches in Sydney to catch some rays (or waves!). Visit Bondi, Bronte, and Clovelly beaches, all within easy reach of the Central Business District of Sydney.
More interested in Sydney’s famed landmarks? The famed harbor is home to the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge — some of the city’s best-known cultural attractions. The day before embarking on your cruise, sail around the harbor and get a behind-the-scenes tour of the Sydney Opera House.
Let us plan it! We make it easy to get the most of your time in Sydney — check out even more shore excursions as you book your cruise.
Top 14-Day Roundtrip Cruises From Sydney
Unpack once and take a relaxing holiday to top Australian cities or to New Zealand’s jaw-dropping national parks. Check out some of our convenient 14-day roundtrip itineraries:
14-Day Australia & New Zealand: February 15 – March 1, 2026
14-Day South Australia Discovery Holiday: December 20, 2026 – January 3, 2027
14-Day New Zealand Discovery: February 13 – February 27, 2028
14-Day Australia & New Zealand: October 24 – November 7, 2027
Discover all 14-Day cruise itineraries here.
Explore Must-See Destinations
Once you depart Sydney, you’re on your way to spectacular natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania’s wilderness areas, or New Zealand’s Milford Sound. These destinations are brimming with ancient history, diverse ecosystems, and one-of-a-kind landscapes just waiting to be explored.
Ready to cross the South Pacific from your bucket list? Learn more about cruises to Australia & New Zealand.
NEW for 2027–2028: Penguin Parade on Philip’s Island
Partake in an enchanting tradition that’s been happening since 1920! Nestled on Summerland Beach, an estimated 32,000 breeding pairs of little blue penguins leave their burrows before sunrise and return at dusk for what is known as the Penguin Parade. Learn about the island’s wildlife while you wait for this incredible scene of the world’s smallest penguins waddling back home after a long day of fishing. Find the Penguin Parade shore excursion on several cruises from Sydney.
NEW for 2027–2028: Hobart, Tasmania
Linger longer with more time to encounter Tasmania’s iconic marsupials, such as the Tasmanian devil, the largest carnivorous marsupial. With access to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Australia Convict Sites and the Tasmanian Wilderness (one of the world’s largest temperate wilderness areas), this destination brings you up close and personal with spectacular wildlife and history. Check out more to do in this unforgettable stop.
Great Barrier Reef, a World Wonder
Located in the Coral Sea right off the coast of Australia, you’ll find the world’s largest collection of coral reefs, home to 400 types of coral and 1,500 types of fish. Take in this wonder from a fixed-wing aircraft or catamaran — or really stretch your adventurous skills and snorkel right alongside colorful tropical fish and intricate coral gardens. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not to be missed!
Milford Sound, New Zealand
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this remote fjord is framed by Mitre Peak — a dramatic spire rising straight from the sea. Milford Sound offers nearly endless trails to explore, but the true magic unfolds from the water — where towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls surround you in a panorama you simply can’t find on land.
Embark on the journey of a lifetime with a cruise conveniently departing from Sydney. Need more convincing to book that much-needed getaway? Take a look at what else awaits you. Plus, check out our cruise deals, including the Have It All Early Booking Bonus to help you save and receive exclusive upgrades and bonus amenities.
