Chandra Hamzah
Australia can have as many as 63 ships sailing around its shores during the cruise season. But how do spoilt-for-choice Aussies know which are the best? Thousands of Cruise Passenger readers voted in our annual Readers’ Choice Awards 2026. The most coveted category is Best Cruise Line. Oceania Cruises took out first place – a fascinating choice given the luxury line has recently sent two vessels to Australia, including one which sails our waters for five months. Perennial favourite Princess Cruises, family pick Royal Caribbean and premium Celebrity Cruises are all in the top five, as lines that have been sailing in Australia for some time. Which one will you chose?
The Best Cruise Lines in Australia According to Cruise Passenger Readers
The Australian cruise market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with an increasing number of domestic and international cruise lines choosing to homeport or visit Australian shores. This surge in offerings presents a delightful, yet sometimes overwhelming, array of choices for Australian travellers. To navigate this expansive landscape, Cruise Passenger magazine once again conducted its highly anticipated annual Readers’ Choice Awards, soliciting feedback from its dedicated readership to identify the premier cruise lines operating in the Australian market for the 2026 season. The results, revealed today, offer a comprehensive snapshot of passenger preferences, highlighting lines that excel in various aspects of the cruising experience, from luxury and value to family entertainment and culinary excellence.
1. Oceania Cruises – Luxe for Less
Oceania Cruises has claimed the coveted title of Best Cruise Line in the 2026 Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards, a testament to its growing appeal among discerning Australian travellers. This prestigious recognition underscores the line’s ability to deliver a luxurious experience at a surprisingly accessible price point, a feat particularly noteworthy in the premium and luxury cruise sector.
For years, Oceania Cruises has cultivated a reputation for offering a refined, high-value proposition, often at a fraction of the cost of other luxury lines. With some itineraries priced as low as $300 per person per day, compared to the $800 or more charged by some competitors, Oceania presents a compelling argument for its "luxe for less" philosophy. This value proposition is further amplified by the line’s proud declaration of offering "Best Cuisine at Sea," a claim consistently reinforced through its culinary programs and dining experiences.
A significant factor in Oceania’s ascendance to the top of the rankings is its innovative "Your World Included" offer. This program aims to provide a near all-inclusive experience, encompassing specialty dining, unlimited Wi-Fi, a selection of non-alcoholic beverages such as coffees, teas, and sodas, and even beer and wine during restaurant hours. When considering these substantial inclusions, the overall value offered by Oceania Cruises becomes exceptionally attractive, providing passengers with a comprehensive and high-quality vacation package.
The line’s commitment to the Australian market is evident in its increasing presence. With two ships currently sailing in Australian waters, and a significant expansion on the horizon with the upcoming Oceania Sonata, a new class of vessel slated for debut in 2027, Oceania is clearly investing in the region. This expansion signals a long-term commitment to Australian cruisers and suggests a growing understanding of their preferences.
Oceania’s appeal also lies in its ability to offer a small-ship experience with intimate service, a distinct advantage in an industry often dominated by larger vessels. The author’s personal experience aboard the newly christened Oceania Vista highlighted a notable elevation in the line’s offerings, a strategic shift towards the luxury space, evident in its sophisticated cuisine and refined interior design.
A standout recommendation from Cruise Passenger is the opportunity to participate in a cooking class at the Culinary Centre. This immersive experience, now expanded to feature 24 cooking stations, provides guests with hands-on culinary instruction, reinforcing the line’s commitment to gastronomic excellence.
2. Princess Cruises – An Aussie Favourite
Princess Cruises has once again secured a top position in the Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards, solidifying its status as a perennial favourite among Australian cruisers. With a remarkable 50-year history of sailing in Australian waters, Princess Cruises holds the distinction of being the longest-operating cruise line in the region, a longevity that speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and deep understanding of the local market.
The line’s success can be attributed to its ability to strike a balance between premium quality, refined experiences, and excellent value, characteristics that resonate deeply with Australian travellers. While Princess Cruises does cater to families, it distinguishes itself from more boisterous, family-focused lines like Carnival or Royal Caribbean by eschewing water parks, slides, and race tracks. Instead, Princess focuses on providing a sophisticated blend of high-quality entertainment and enriching, immersive shore excursions.
One of Princess Cruises’ key strengths is the unparalleled diversity of its itineraries. Australian cruisers can embark on circumnavigations of the continent, explore the idyllic South Pacific islands, discover Australia’s stunning west coast, and access a wider array of itineraries to destinations such as South Australia and Tasmania than offered by most other lines operating in the region. This extensive network of destinations ensures there is a Princess cruise to suit almost every travel desire.
Complementing its diverse itineraries are the popular "Princess Plus" and "Princess Premier" cruise packages. These packages enhance the onboard experience by bundling amenities such as drinks packages, Wi-Fi access, and other valuable perks, offering a taste of an all-inclusive vacation and further bolstering the line’s reputation for value.
A strong endorsement comes from Cruise Passenger contributor Jane Archer, who recently sailed on the Crown Princess for a New Zealand voyage departing from Sydney. Her experience underscored the exceptional quality of the food and service, elements that have consistently impressed her over two decades of sailing with the line. This long-standing commitment to excellence is a hallmark of the Princess Cruises experience.
3. Royal Caribbean International – Family Favourite
Royal Caribbean International has once again been recognised as a top choice for Australian families, clinching a strong third place in the Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards 2026. The line’s unwavering commitment to providing unparalleled family-focused cruising experiences on its large, amenity-rich ships continues to resonate with Australian travellers seeking adventure and entertainment for all ages.
Royal Caribbean is renowned for its "big-ship" experience, transforming its vessels into floating resorts packed with thrilling attractions. From exhilarating water slides and rock-climbing walls to surf simulators and indoor skydiving (iFly), these ships offer a diverse range of activities that captivate younger passengers and adventurous adults alike. The sheer scale and variety of onboard facilities are a primary drawcard, making Royal Caribbean a go-to for family holidays.
However, the line’s appeal extends far beyond its family-oriented offerings. Adults can indulge in high-quality dining options, sophisticated wine tastings, rejuvenating spa treatments, captivating Broadway-style entertainment, and an endless array of daily activities. This dual focus ensures that both families and adult groups can find their ideal cruising experience.
While Royal Caribbean offers excellent value for money, its price point has seen a modest increase, positioning it as a more premium option than its direct competitor, Carnival Cruise Lines. However, this adjustment is often justified by the line’s typically younger fleet and the extensive array of modern facilities available onboard.
A significant development for Royal Caribbean in the region is the upcoming launch of its private beach club, Lelepa, in Vanuatu, scheduled for late 2027. This exclusive destination promises to further enhance the South Pacific cruising experience offered by the line, which predominantly focuses on this region rather than extensive Australian itineraries.
The author’s recent experience aboard the Ovation of the Seas, a decade after their first sailing on the ship, highlighted the line’s enduring ability to impress. The remarkable diversity of onboard activities remains a consistent highlight, and the Ovation is described as a vessel that has aged exceptionally well, retaining its cutting-edge appeal.
4. Celebrity Cruises – A Premium Experience
Celebrity Cruises has earned a solid fourth position in the Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, a testament to its continued growth and its ability to carve out a distinct niche in the premium cruising market. The arrival of the sophisticated Celebrity Edge and the significant upgrades to Celebrity Solstice have undoubtedly elevated the line’s profile and offerings in Australia.
While historically considered a direct competitor to Princess Cruises, Celebrity has successfully differentiated itself by focusing on a more contemporary and sophisticated onboard experience. Instead of the high-octane family attractions found on some other lines, Celebrity emphasizes elegant spaces, lush gardens, curated bars, and refined wine-tasting experiences, complemented by an array of exceptional specialty restaurants.
A prime example of Celebrity’s innovative design is the "Magic Carpet" featured on Celebrity Edge. This unique, cantilevered platform that travels up and down the ship’s exterior offers a multi-functional space, transforming from a simple boarding platform to a vibrant open-air lounge or dining venue. It represents a masterclass in modern maritime engineering and guest experience design.
The line has also found particular success with its themed "wine cruises" in Australia. These sailings focus on visiting renowned wine regions and ports celebrated for their gourmet food scenes, offering specialised shore excursions and onboard programming that perfectly complements the epicurean journey. This niche offering appeals to a sophisticated clientele seeking a refined culinary and viticultural experience at sea.
Celebrity Cruises offers sailings departing from Sydney, exploring a diverse range of Australian and South Pacific ports, providing ample choice and variety for travellers.
Cruise Passenger contributor and expert Sue Bryant, who experienced the launch of Celebrity Edge, was particularly impressed by the ship’s advanced design and innovative features, reinforcing the line’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of contemporary cruising.
5. Viking Ocean Cruises – A Game Changer
Viking Ocean Cruises has secured the fifth spot in the Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, a remarkable achievement for a line that has rapidly redefined the cruising landscape. Viking’s consistent and meticulously crafted onboard experience, irrespective of the global destination, has cultivated a fiercely loyal following.
The hallmark of Viking’s success lies in the uniformity of its fleet. Each identical ship offers a refined and predictable experience, ensuring that passengers know precisely what to expect, a significant factor for its dedicated clientele. The line famously appeals to a more mature demographic, with a deliberate policy of "no kids, no casinos," positioning itself as "the thinking person’s cruise." This clear focus has allowed Viking to carve out a unique and highly successful niche in the market.
While often described as luxury, Viking prefers to position itself as offering "the thinking person’s cruise" with exceptional value. Fares can exceed $500 per night, but the extensive inclusions and the high standards of construction and design contribute to a compelling overall value proposition. Viking boasts the world’s largest river fleet, two expedition vessels, and a fleet of 15 ocean ships, demonstrating its significant global footprint.
During the Australian cruise season, Viking typically deploys two ships to local waters, offering sailings that frequently include destinations like New Zealand. This presence allows Australian passengers to experience Viking’s unique offering closer to home.
A strong recommendation from Cruise Passenger highlights Viking’s speciality restaurants, all of which are included in the cruise fare. The Italian restaurant, Manfredi’s, is singled out as one of the finest at sea, a testament to the line’s commitment to culinary excellence.
6. Cunard Line – British Upper-Crust Cruising
Cunard Line, renowned for its elegant and traditional British cruising experience, has secured the sixth position in the Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards 2026. The line unapologetically embraces its "upper-crust" identity, offering a journey steeped in grandeur, sophistication, and a touch of bygone era charm, an appeal that resonates deeply with its dedicated passenger base.
From meticulously observed dress codes to grand ballrooms, Cunard offers an experience drenched in elegance and opulence. Guests who appreciate the finer aspects of travel, including white-gloved service and a refined atmosphere, find Cunard’s approach highly appealing. The line frequently hosts distinguished speakers discussing topics ranging from history and diplomacy to art, alongside traditional entertainment, fostering a rich cultural and intellectual environment onboard.
While Cunard no longer homeports ships in Australia, making direct embarkation more complex for local travellers, its enduring popularity means many Australians are willing to fly to international hubs like the USA or Europe to experience its distinctive offerings. This willingness to travel further underscores the unique draw of the Cunard brand.
Positioned in a price bracket above Princess Cruises but below ultra-luxury lines like Oceania, Cunard offers a distinct value proposition. Its larger ships, typically accommodating between 2,000 and 3,000 passengers, paradoxically manage to deliver an intimate style of service and a refined aesthetic that permeates every aspect of the onboard experience.
For travellers seeking an opportunity to dress up, indulge in classic luxury, and enjoy a traditional, grand-scale cruise, Cunard remains an unparalleled choice. The Cruise Passenger recommendation specifically points to the quintessential "British high tea," complete with finger sandwiches and scones, and the tradition of formal nights, where black tie and dinner jackets are the norm, as defining elements of the Cunard experience.
7. Disney Cruise Line – A Kids’ (and Parents’) Favourite
Although not currently sailing in Australian waters, Disney Cruise Line has made a significant impression, earning seventh place in the Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards 2026. Its recent short stint in Australia demonstrated the enduring popularity of the Disney brand and its magical appeal to both children and adults.
Disney Cruise Line excels in delivering an immersive entertainment experience tailored for young fans, coupled with excellent dining and luxurious ships that cater to parents. While lines like Royal Caribbean might offer a broader range of activities, Disney’s strength lies in its unique, franchise-specific experiences that create cherished memories for families.
For Australians eager to experience a Disney cruise, the Disney Adventure, the line’s largest and newest ship, is now sailing from Singapore. This offers a convenient travel opportunity for Australians, with a relatively short flight providing access to a world-class Disney cruise experience.
A surprising highlight often noted by passengers is the exceptional quality of the food onboard, with a wide variety of dining venues available to explore. This culinary excellence, combined with the unparalleled theming and entertainment, solidifies Disney Cruise Line’s reputation as a top-tier family vacation option.
8. Holland America Line – A Quiet Achiever
Holland America Line, often considered a quiet achiever in the Australian market, has secured the eighth position in the Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards 2026. Despite being less overtly marketed than some of its competitors, Holland America maintains a steady and loyal following among Australian cruisers who appreciate its relaxed and understated approach to cruising.
The line typically deploys its well-maintained, slightly older ships during the Australian summer season. Its local specialty lies in its cruises between Australia and New Zealand, generally offering two-week, one-way itineraries that visit a range of New Zealand ports and often include stops in Australian destinations like Melbourne and Hobart.
Holland America offers an experience akin to that of Celebrity and Princess Cruises but generally presents a more no-fuss, relaxed onboard atmosphere. This approach appeals particularly to an older demographic seeking a slower-paced and more tranquil cruising experience. For Australians looking for a local sailing option that offers a uniquely relaxed and understated holiday, Holland America Line is a compelling choice.
A notable recommendation from Cruise Passenger is the pervasive presence of music onboard, especially jazz, which creates a sophisticated and enjoyable evening ambiance.
9. Silversea – Quality and Silver Service
Silversea Cruises, a leader in ultra-luxury cruising, has claimed the ninth spot in the Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, reflecting its strong appeal to affluent Australian travellers. The line’s decision to deploy its flagship, Silver Nova, to Australian waters during the season underscores its commitment to this key market.
Silver Nova is lauded as one of the most beautiful ships gracing Australian waters, featuring a light-filled, contemporary design and an impressive pool deck. The line’s dedication to culinary excellence is evident in its SALT (Sea, Air, Land, Taste) program, which includes the SALT Kitchen, a learning studio, and a specialty restaurant, offering immersive gastronomic experiences.
Silversea has significantly increased its presence in the Australian market, emphasising exceptional service as its core differentiator. With butlers attending to guests and a near 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, Silversea ensures top-tier quality across all aspects of the cruise, from dining and accommodation to amenities and personalised service.
The line offers a variety of itineraries around Australia, as well as sailings connecting Australia with Asia and the South Pacific. A standout itinerary is the 30-day Sydney to Tokyo voyage, which includes calls at popular destinations such as Bali, Vietnam, Singapore, and Taiwan.
A personal recommendation from a Cruise Passenger contributor who sailed on Silver Nova from Darwin to Cairns highlights the unparalleled service as the defining characteristic of Silversea. This commitment to service, which earned Silversea the "Best for Service" award in last year’s Readers’ Choice Awards, is a key reason for its premium pricing and the exceptional guest experience it provides.
10. Seabourn – Expedition with an Authentic Flavour
Seabourn Cruises rounds out the top ten in the Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, recognised for its relaxed, opulent, and yacht-like cruising experience. Australia represents Seabourn’s third-largest source market globally, prompting the line to implement new strategies to attract and cater to Australian guests.
A significant drawcard for Seabourn in Australia is its expedition-style cruising in the Kimberley region. The line’s purpose-built expedition vessels offer immersive exploration opportunities in one of Australia’s most remote and breathtaking natural environments. Beyond its domestic offerings, Seabourn is actively encouraging Australian guests to explore its itineraries in Europe and Antarctica, leveraging strategic partnerships to enhance accessibility and broaden its appeal.
These partnerships include collaborations with APT and Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, facilitating seamless travel and integrated holiday experiences for Australian travellers.
Seabourn promises luxury in every aspect of the onboard experience, delivering top-notch quality and service in an understated, low-key manner that guests often find refreshingly unobtrusive.
A specific recommendation highlights Seabourn’s generous inclusion of caviar, available at any time as an optional extra, alongside impeccable service, as a signature element of its refined offering. This attention to detail and commitment to guest satisfaction solidifies Seabourn’s position as a premier choice for discerning travellers.
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