Travel Trends Show Aussies Are “Seas-ing” the Day with Short Cruises
Think you need to book a few weeks off for a holiday that combines adventure, relaxation and fun? Think again. You’ll get all that and – and much, much more – on a short cruise.
Our short cruises are designed to deliver everything a great holiday should but without the need for extended time away. From all-ages activities and entertainment to shore excursions in some of Australia’s most beautiful destinations, here’s why hopping on a short cruise is one of Australia’s biggest travel trends right now.
The New Australian Travel Trend – Shorter, Smarter and More Fun!
You don’t need to go away for weeks to reap the benefits of a holiday. In fact, a recent survey by Carnival found one-third of Aussies (33%) feel refreshed after a holiday for as little as 3-5 days!
We can think of no better way to escape than with a short cruise. And it seems Aussies agree with us, with 73% open to exploring cruises, according to an Australian travel trends survey conducted by Luxury Escapes.
Why Aussie Travellers Are Anchoring Down for Short Cruises
There are loads of reasons why short cruises are quickly becoming a favourite choice for Aussie travellers who want to maximise fun, flexibility and value – all without the long-term commitment.
Whether you’re after a quick break from the daily grind, looking for a way to explore cruising for the first time, or just want an easy getaway with everything included, short cruises are the answer. For easy escapes with no major planning required, here’s why more Australians are saying “yes” to a short trip at sea.
Value for money with so many inclusions
One of the best things about a short cruise? The absolutely incredible value. Seriously – there’s just no other holiday that compares.
From the second you set foot on board, so much of the fun is already included in your fare. That means you can indulge in delicious dining, endless entertainment and activities for every age group, without paying an extra cent.
Get away from reality for a few days on a Getaway cruise
If you’re craving a quick escape, but only have a few days to spare, our 3-night Getaway cruises are perfect. With no port stops, you can head out to sea for a few days and make the most of everything the ship has to offer.
You can spend your seadays however you like – lounge by the pool, treat yourself to a massage at Cloud 9 Spa, or watch Seuss-A-Palooza Parade with the kids. By night, enjoy live music, themed parties and delicious dining – without ever stepping off the ship. It’s the ideal way to unwind, recharge and get your fill of fun, all in a few unforgettable days at sea.
Spread the fun out throughout the year with multiple short cruises
Is there anyone who returns from a holiday and doesn’t immediately start planning the next one? Didn’t think so.
With short cruises, you don’t have to wait for the next big break – book a few shorter cruises throughout the year to keep the fun going all year long, without breaking the bank (or using up all your annual leave). You can’t lose.
Short cruises offer all the benefits of a full holiday in a few fun days
One of our favourite things about cruising? You can make it into absolutely any kind of holiday you want. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie who loves adventure, parents looking for a family-friendly holiday or friends looking to unwind, you can tailor your cruise to your personal holiday style. Or why not mix and match a bit of everything? After all, it’s your holiday – do as much (or as little) as you like.
Action-packed adventures
Cruising to Airlie Beach or Moreton Island? Fill your days with action-packed shore excursions, from exploring croc country to an underwater sea scooter safari (yes, you read that right!).
Pro tip: Don’t forget to book your shore excursions before you set sail, so you don’t miss out on your must-do adventures.
All that jazz
The theatre-buffs among you can take a trip to Broadway without flying halfway across the world with show-stopping performances from world-class artists.
Fine dining to casual eats
Treat yourself to a steak cooked to perfection at Fahrenheit 555, Luke’s Bar & Grill, or indulge in the VIP experience of The Chef’s Table, where cocktails, hors d’œuvre and a gourmet feast await.
Seriously relaxing spa breaks
Start your day with a yoga class, enjoy a leisurely Seadays Brunch, then head on over to Carnival’s Cloud 9 Spa, the ultimate oasis of relaxation. Soothe your senses in the Thermal Suite, rejuvenate in the Hydrotherapy Pool or even get pampered at our onboard salon.
Fun for the whole family
From family movie nights under the stars to the all-ages Green Lightning Waterslide, there are loads of onboard activities for the whole family to enjoy. Plus, there are kids clubs for ages 2 through to 17, so kids and teens can hang out together, while parents slip away for some alone time – may we recommend the Adult-Only Serenity Retreat?
Dance from dusk ‘til dawn
Get all dressed up for our famous 80s Rock-n-Glow Party, sing your heart out at the Piano Bar or dance all night long at the Night Club. And if you’re feeling lucky, why not try your hand at roulette at the casino? Don’t forget to grab a cocktail from the Casino Bar while you’re there.
Top Short Cruising Spots for Aussies? Right Here at Home
Forget the passport – some of the most unforgettable cruise destinations are right here in Australia. Here’s a peek at where you could go in just a few days.
Paradise awaits: Airlie Beach Cruises
Whether you’re after relaxation or adventure, Airlie Beach has it all. Cruise up to the Whitsundays on a four-day cruise from Brisbane and experience some of the most spectacular beaches and reefs in Australia.
Marvel at the world-famous Great Barrier Reef from the skies on a scenic flight or see it from below, from a pontoon – go snorkelling, take a ride in semi-submersible or watch the marine life from the underwater viewing observatory.
Treasure island: Tangalooma Moreton Island Cruises
Looking for a mix of thrill and chill? Look no further than Moreton Island. On a four-night cruise from Sydney, you’ll have your pick of adventures. Try your hand at parasailing over turquoise waters; take a kayak tour of the famous Tangalooma Wrecks; or ride a 4WD over the island’s sprawling dunes; spot pelicans on a hike through the forests and deserts of the island.
Taste of Tassie: Hobart Cruises
If you’re in the mood for a holiday that combines stunning scenery, rich history and delicious local eats, sail down the south and explore Hobart for the day on a four-day cruise from Sydney to Tasmania. Why not join a historic walking tour or kayak around the waterfront, for a whole different perspective on the city?
Kangaroo Island cruises from Melbourne
Bursting with natural beauty and native wildlife, Kangaroo Island is a nature lover’s dream. The island is regarded by many as Australia’s “Galápagos”, and with good reason: no other place allows you to walk amongst endangered Australian sea lions, watch kangaroos feed, and catch a glimpse of a shy platypus – all in one day!
Short Cruises for Every Type of Traveller
With so much you can pack into just a few days, a short cruise is the perfect way for anyone to escape the everyday. Whether you’re bringing the whole family with you, a restorative solo holiday, planning a romantic getaway, or hanging out with friends, there’s something for absolutely any type of traveller.
First-time Cruisers
Curious about cruising, but nervous about booking a longer one or two-week adventure? A short cruise is a great way to dip your toes into life at sea and get a feel for cruise ship life. You can spend your days exploring everything the ship has to offer and even explore a new destination.
Group Cruises
Planning a group holiday? Why not try a cruise? They’re a great option for bringing extended family and friends together – whether that’s a reunion, to celebrate a milestone birthday, or just some quality time with everyone.
Kids & Teens
Set sail with the whole crew and let the fun begin! Families love our short cruises for the incredible range of activities that bring everyone together and let each family member do their own thing. Kids will adore Camp Ocean, where they can enjoy ocean-themed games and crafts under the watchful eyes of trained counsellors, while older kids chill at Circle “C” or Club O2 with dance parties, movies and video games.
Couples
If you’re after a romantic escape, a short cruise offers plenty of ways to make it unforgettable. Indulge in an intimate, sophisticated dinner at Lukes Bar & Grill or Fahrenheit 555, feel your troubles melt away in the Hydrotherapy Pool, or enjoy a cocktail crafted by our mix-masters Alchemy Bar. With such an impressive lineup of entertainment and dining at your fingertips, every night can be date night on a short Carnival cruise.
Friends
A short cruise is the perfect setting for a fun-filled getaway with mates. Challenge each other to a game or two of basketball, get the party started at BlueIguana Tequila Bar or go all in at the casino. With endless dining options and all-day entertainment, this is your chance to relax, reconnect and let loose together.
Insider Tips for Making the Most of a Short Cruise
A little planning goes a long way – even when it comes to a short cruise. Here are our top tips to make the most of your time on board.
Book Early for the Best Deals
Want the best rates and first choice of rooms? For the best short cruise deals, the key is to book early. Our short cruises are in high demand, so booking in advance not only secures your spot at a great price but also allows you to reserve popular dining experiences and exclusive activities.
But don’t worry if you’re more of a spur-of-the-moment traveller – we also have last-minute deals for those spontaneous escapes, letting you set sail on a whim without breaking the bank.
Plan Activities in Advance
Body: Once you’ve booked your cruise, it’s worth taking a few minutes to check out your cruise itinerary before you leave home and lock in your must-do dining experiences and shore excursions early, too. Some experiences, like special dining at Fahrenheit 555 or a spa day at Cloud 9 Spa, book up quickly, so we recommend reserving your spot as soon as you can.
Looking for Short Cruises Packed with Fun? Carnival’s Got ‘Em!
With value for money experiences, exciting destinations and endless onboard activities, our short cruises let you pack a whole holiday into just a few days. And with more than 100 short-sailings from Sydney and Brisbane, there’s never been a better time to jump on board.
