Some of the most picturesque landscapes, natural wonders and must-see destinations form the incredible southern coastline of Australia. With such a huge landmass these travel destinations can be both challenging and time-consuming to reach. This is when cruising holidays combined with touring and destination stays make exploring these vast landscapes easy.
From the moment you step aboard Crown Princess, you will be welcomed and feel right at home. From the attentive service and friendly staff, you’ll find your cruise aboard Crown Princess truly a home away from home. Crown Princess blends the exotic and the familiar aspects of the ideal holiday, with its elegant Italian restaurant, celebrity-style spa treatments, and the collection of freshwater pools and spas. The ship is a vacation destination in itself, offering live entertainment, original musical productions, and a broad selection of tantalising dining. As you cruise from Sydney to Fremantle, you will be visiting the ports of Hobart, Melbourne, Adelaide, Albany and Margaret River/Busselton on an unforgettable voyage.
Sydney
One of the most iconic harbours in the world, framed by two equally iconic landmarks (Sydney Harbour Bridge & Sydney Opera House) Sydney Harbour is home to one of the most frequently utilised cruise docks in the world. Whilst visiting the world-renowned Opera House or climbing the Harbour Bridge is a must-do experience, be sure not to miss out on exploring the rest of Sydney’s magical Harbour. From the buzz and energy of Circular Quay at the foot of the city’s business district, you can take your pick from several ferry services to reach many of the harbourside suburbs. You can also take a water taxi, enjoy a harbour lunch or dinner cruise, or even take a walking tour around the historic Rocks area. From there you can also walk to the Royal Botanic Gardens, stopping at several chic cafes and award-winning restaurants on the way, featuring some of the city’s best views. Ask our consultants about extending your holiday with a pre-cruise or post-cruise stay in this must-see destination to get the most out of Sydney’s wonderful delights.
Hobart
There’s plenty of history to be found in Hobart, one of the oldest cities in Australia, alongside fresh produce, charming side streets and the scenic Hobart waterfront with kunanyi/Mt Wellington forming a magnificent backdrop to the capital city and providing equally striking views over the city to match. The city is a vibrant hub of boutique hotels, world-class dining and celebration of all things art, being home to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), and all at a welcome and relaxed pace. Hobart is also the finish line for the annual Rolex Sydney to Hobart, the famous yacht race held on Boxing Day and an icon of Australian sporting events.
Melbourne
Known as Australia’s home of sport, Melbourne will certainly fill your day with creative art, award-winning food, great coffee, local fashion brands and hidden bars. Explore the city’s museums, walk through the various parklands and beautiful gardens that surround the CBD and shop up a storm at flagship stores and international fashion houses. A standout cityscape structure, inspired by the London Eye, is the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel, promoting panoramic views of up to 40 kilometres and an experience you’ll never forget. After discovering the CBD’s many haunts and people-watching in Federation Square, wander across the river to the National Gallery of Victoria where there’s sure to be a noteworthy exhibition running.
Adelaide
The city of Adelaide surprises many tourists thanks to its continued explosion of new laneway bars, cafes and incredible restaurants along with further international hotels popping up around the city. Wander along North Terrace and marvel at the historic architecture of the Art Gallery of South Australia, the University of Adelaide and the South Australian Museum. Head to the historic and bustling Adelaide Central Markets for superb local produce and eateries, tour the iconic Adelaide Oval or enjoy a leisurely walk through the stunning Adelaide Botanic Gardens. Not far from the city itself are numerous beautiful beaches such as Glenelg, Henley and Semaphore, each with its own inviting seaside cafes, restaurants and shopping.
Albany
Albany is a must visit for its pristine coastline, convict and settler history, world-class hiking and is just an all-around gorgeous place to be. Albany's highlights include The Gap - a spectacular sight stretching out over the granite sea cliffs, and the rock wonder that is Natural Bridge, both of which are located in Torndirrup National Park. More must-dos include the Whaling Station, Padre White Lookout and ANZAC Centre. This is also the destination for premium craft spirits, being home to Limeburners Distillery producing single malt whisky and the Great Southern Distilling Co Cellar Door producing their Giniversity Gin.
Margaret River/ Busselton
Arrive into Busselton, the gateway to the Margaret River, known for the longest timber-piled jetty in the southern hemisphere. This picturesque and premium wine region of Western Australia is one of world-class wines and gourmet produce, with stunning beaches and towering timber forests to walk through. Margaret River has quickly gained accolades over recent years for producing some superb Cabernets and Chardonnays in addition to being home to some of Western Australia’s best beaches and gorgeous natural landscapes. Here you can also follow the epic annual migration of the humpback whale, southern right whale and the rare blue whale, from the food-rich Southern Ocean.
Perth / Fremantle
Just 30 minutes from Perth, the popular port city of Fremantle buzzes with popular cafes, bars and restaurants, in addition to a World Heritage-listed prison and colourful maritime history. Browse the eclectic markets, wander the eclectic streets or hop on the short ferry ride from here to beautiful Rottnest Island and meet the world’s happiest animal – the Quokka! Before departing this beautiful city, enjoy a pre-cruise stay in Perth and explore the vibrant food and culture scene, along with beautiful Kings Park and Botanic Garden, the Art Gallery of Western Australia and scenic Swan River. Explore Perth’s burgeoning food and wine scene in Northbridge and Subiaco or head to Elizabeth Quay for festivals and dining on the picturesque waterfront. The capital is also known for its amazing beaches such as Scarborough or Cottesloe Beach for a spectacular coastal sunset and incredible dining.
This bucket list cruise adventure along Australia's southern coastline offers an unforgettable blend of urban excitement, historic charm, and natural beauty. From the iconic harbours of Sydney to the vineyards of Margaret River and the historic streets of Fremantle, each destination weaves a unique thread into the fabric of our journey. Aboard the Crown Princess, every moment of the journey will be just as incredible as the destinations as you embark on the southern coast voyage of a lifetime.
Click here to view our Crown Princess cruise holidays or call our team on 1300 854 897 or email holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au for more.
Image credit: Tourism Western Australia, Tourism Tasmania, Tourism Victoria, South Australian Tourism Commission & Princess Cruises.