AUSSIE cruise holidays are on the rise this year, with one in three of us considering taking to the high seas in 2026, according to new research from the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF). The past two years have seen a particular surge in cruise interest, the industry group found,...
AUSSIE cruise holidays are on the rise this year, with one in three of us considering taking to the high seas in 2026, according to new research from the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF).
The past two years have seen a particular surge in cruise interest, the industry group found, with a survey it conducted showing 33% of Australians are planning to go on a cruise this summer or within the next 12 months.
This is up from 26% in the last cruise survey, published 24 months ago.
Key to the sector’s proposition is its value for money, with 53% of those surveyed believing cruising prioritises this when compared to other holidays, especially for families and older adults.
This was found to be particularly appealing as cost-of-living pressures persist, chief executive officer Margy Osmond said.
“At a time when household budgets are under pressure, cruising bundles accommodation, meals, activities and transport into a single package, making it an exciting yet cost effective option for holidaymakers,” the TTF head said.
An increasing number of younger Australians are behind the rise in cruise holidays, with 44% of those under 35 looking to go on a cruise this year, compared with just 35% two years ago.
Interest also remains strong among 35 to 44 years olds, a key demographic for families, with 42% considering a cruise this year, compared with just 20% of Australians aged 65 and over.
Cruises are increasingly catering to younger travellers and families, 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.”
The Whitsundays and Sydney ranked equal first as the most popular Australian cruise destinations for this year.
This was followed by Hobart, Melbourne, Hamilton Island, and the Great Barrier Reef.
New Zealand ranked as the most popular overseas destination.
Osmond said this shows the importance of the Australian Government working to ensure more cruise ships don’t leave local shores.
“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. MS
