Australia Cruises from Canada: A Wonderful Way to Explore Down Under

Australia has been on my mind lately.

I recently attended a Tourism Australia webinar that reinforced something important: Australia is more accessible than many Canadians assume. If you’ve been researching Australia cruises from Canada, you may be wondering about the journey, the cost or how much time you’ll need to explore such an enormous country.

A cruise could be the answer. It offers a convenient introduction to Australia’s cities, coastlines and natural wonders, with the added comfort of unpacking only once.

Getting to Australia Is Easier Than You Think

Both Air Canada and Qantas offer nonstop flights between Vancouver and Sydney. Air Canada also serves Brisbane from Vancouver. Schedules vary by date.

A nonstop flight from Vancouver to Sydney takes approximately 15 hours. Many flights travel overnight, allowing time for dinner, rest and breakfast before arrival.

Concerned about losing a day crossing the International Date Line? You’ll gain that calendar day back when you return home.

Here’s an example of how the time difference works.

Vancouver to Sydney: What time will it feel like?

Illustrative January flight · Approximately 15 hours

1. Monday, 10 p.m. — Depart Vancouver. Enjoy dinner and settle in for an overnight flight.
2. Wednesday, 8 a.m. — Arrive in Sydney. It’s Wednesday morning locally, but your body clock is still around Tuesday at 1 p.m.

Sydney is 19 hours ahead of Vancouver in January. The difference varies seasonally.

I recommend arriving at least two nights before embarkation. This allows time to adjust and explore your departure city.

Many cruise lines also offer airfare programmes that coordinate flights with your cruise. Princess EZair and Flights by Celebrity are two examples. Both offer assistance with qualifying flight disruptions, subject to their terms.

Why Explore Australia by Cruise?

Australia is enormous. Rather than attempting to see everything during one vacation, a cruise lets you focus on a particular region.

(Affiliate disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links. If you make a booking through one of these links, I may earn a small commission.)

There are several advantages:

• Unpack once: Explore multiple destinations without changing hotels or arranging transportation between cities.
• Enjoy excellent value: Accommodations, many meals and entertainment are generally included in your cruise fare.
• Discover different regions: Choose tropical Queensland, Australia’s southern coastline or an itinerary combining Australia and New Zealand.
• Extend your adventure: Add hotel nights before or after your sailing for more extensive sightseeing.

Australia also offers wonderful experiences that cost little or nothing, from beautiful beaches to public gardens and opportunities to observe wildlife.

Two Australian Cruises to Consider

These examples demonstrate how varied Australian cruise itineraries can be.

Both could be combined with additional time in Sydney. Itineraries are subject to change.

Exclusive Cruise Benefits

Through my affiliation with Pure Magic Vacations, I have access to select sailings featuring additional benefits at no extra cost.

Distinctive Voyages is a collection of hosted cruises. Eligible sailings include an onboard host, a private welcome reception and an exclusive amenity. Depending on the departure, this could include a special shore experience or onboard credit.

The Culinary Collection features select premium and luxury cruises with additional food and wine experiences. These may include cooking demonstrations, wine offerings or other culinary activities.

I’ll be happy to investigate which Australian departures qualify.

Practical Tips for Canadian Travellers

Entry requirements: Canadian passport holders generally need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). Apply through the official Australian ETA app. The service fee is AUD $20, and the authorization generally permits stays of up to three months per visit during its validity period. Check requirements before departure.

Pack for the season: Australia’s seasons are opposite Canada’s. Remember that tropical Queensland has a wet season from November through April. Pack sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes and layers for cooler evenings.

Respect biosecurity rules: Australia strictly regulates incoming food, plant and animal products. Clean outdoor footwear before travelling and declare any applicable items upon arrival.

Ready to Explore Australia?

An Australian vacation isn’t necessarily inexpensive, but a thoughtfully planned cruise can offer tremendous value.

Whether you’re dreaming of the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney’s iconic harbour or Tasmania’s rugged coastline, I’d be delighted to help you explore the possibilities.

And remember, you don’t need to see everything on your first visit. Australia is a destination you’ll want to return to again.