For many Aussies over sixty, the idea of a holiday sounds amazing – but the long-haul flight? Not so much.
Whether it’s the stress of airports, the discomfort of hours in the air or simply a preference to stay closer to home, no-fly cruises are becoming an increasingly popular way to travel without boarding a plane.
The good news? Aussies are uniquely positioned to take advantage of this style of holiday, with major cruise ships departing directly from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth.
One of the most popular no-fly options is a South Pacific itinerary. Departing from Sydney or Brisbane, these cruises typically visit destinations such as New Caledonia and Vanuatu over 7 to 10 nights. Expect warm weather, calm waters and relaxed days at sea – ideal for travellers who prefer a gentler pace.
Tasmania and coastal Australia
Shorter coastal cruises are another strong choice. Round-trip sailings from Melbourne or Sydney often include Hobart and regional ports around Tasmania, allowing you to explore without the hassle of airport transfers or luggage restrictions.
Longer coastal itineraries may circle Australia over several weeks, giving crusiers the chance to see remote stretches of coastline in comfort.
New Zealand without the airport
For those wanting a slightly longer journey, 10 to 14-night cruises to New Zealand depart seasonally from Australian ports. While the Tasman Sea crossing can be lively, ships are well equipped for stability and comfort.
Why choose no-fly?
No-fly cruising removes many of the stress points of modern travel. There are no baggage weight limits, no lengthy security queues and no worries about missed connections. You simply arrive at the terminal, unpack once and let the scenery come to you.
For Aussies who still love travel but prefer to skip the skies, a cruise departing from home may be the easiest holiday decision you make.
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