Unforgettable Australia: My Princess Cruises® Review (and Why You Should Book Now)

There’s a certain magic to Australia that seeps into your soul. It’s the scent of eucalyptus on a warm breeze, the otherworldly call of a kookaburra at dawn, the dazzling, almost impossible blue of the water against the red earth. It’s a continent of epic scale and breathtaking contrasts, a place that calls to the adventurer in all of us. For years, I’ve dreamt of exploring its vast coastlines, but the sheer logistics felt daunting. How could one possibly capture the essence of Sydney’s iconic harbor, Melbourne’s vibrant culture, and Tasmania’s rugged wilderness in a single trip without spending months on the road?

The answer, I discovered, lies not on land, but at sea. My recent voyage with Princess Cruises was more than a vacation; it was a revelation. It was the seamless, elegant, and profoundly moving way to experience the Land Down Under. This isn't just a review; it's an invitation. An invitation to see, taste, and feel the wonders of Australia with a grace and comfort that only a premium cruise line can provide. If this continent is on your bucket list, allow me to show you why a Princess cruise is unequivocally the best way to tick it off.

Why Princess Cruises for Your Australian Adventure?

Choosing a cruise line is as important as choosing your destination. For a journey of this magnitude, you need a partner with deep expertise, impeccable service, and an onboard experience that enhances, rather than distracts from, the destination. Princess Cruises has been sailing these waters for decades, and it shows. Their itineraries are thoughtfully crafted, their shore excursions are enriching, and their understanding of the region is second to none.

What truly sets them apart in the modern era is their revolutionary MedallionClass® experience. Forget fumbling for a keycard. Your personal Medallion, a small, wearable device, unlocks your stateroom door as you approach, allows you to order food and drinks to wherever you are on the ship, and simplifies every transaction. It’s a subtle, seamless technology that removes the minor frictions of travel, leaving you with more time to simply… be. To relax, to explore, to connect. This effortless personalization is the hallmark of modern luxury, and Princess has perfected it.

Feeling intrigued but have a quick question about which ship offers this? Our team is standing by. Simply click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner of your screen for an instant response as you continue to read.

The Onboard Experience: Your Floating Sanctuary at Sea

Your ship is your home for the duration of your adventure, and Princess ensures it’s a sanctuary of comfort and delight. I sailed aboard the magnificent Royal Princess, a vessel that strikes the perfect balance between grand, sweeping spaces and intimate, cozy corners. From the moment you step into the soaring, Italian-style Piazza—the vibrant heart of the ship—you feel a sense of relaxed elegance.

Accommodations: More Than Just a Room

After a long day of exploring, your stateroom is your private retreat. I cannot recommend a balcony stateroom highly enough for an Australian itinerary. There is simply nothing like waking up, stepping outside into the fresh sea air, and watching the Sydney Opera House glide into view. Or enjoying a quiet glass of wine as the sun sets over the Tasmanian coast. It’s these moments that transform a great trip into an unforgettable one.

And the bed? The Princess Luxury Bed, developed with a board-certified sleep expert, is pure bliss. It’s the kind of deep, restorative sleep you need to feel energized for the adventures ahead. It’s these thoughtful details that make all the difference.

• Spacious, well-appointed staterooms and suites
• Private balconies for breathtaking, ever-changing views
• Twice-daily housekeeping service
• Room service available 24/7, delivered with a smile

Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses

A journey with Princess is a journey for your taste buds. The culinary program is exceptional, offering a dazzling array of choices to suit any mood or palate. The main dining rooms offer a classic, elegant experience with a rotating menu of international and locally-inspired dishes. But it’s the specialty dining where Princess truly shines.

My evening at the Crown Grill was a highlight. The sizzle of a perfectly-seared, hand-cut steak, the rich aroma of truffle-laced macaroni and cheese, the impeccable service—it was a world-class steakhouse experience that just happened to be in the middle of the ocean. Another evening, we indulged in handmade pasta at Sabatini's Italian Trattoria, a warm and inviting space that felt like a family-run restaurant in the heart of Tuscany.

Beyond these, you’ll find:

• The World Fresh Marketplace, a casual buffet with an incredible variety of global cuisines.
• Alfredo's Pizzeria, voted "Best Pizza at Sea" by USA TODAY.
• The International Café in the Piazza, for gourmet coffees, fresh pastries, and light bites around the clock.

Planning these special meals is part of the fun. When you book with us, our specialists can help you secure dining reservations and spa appointments before you even set sail. Get a Custom Quote and let us handle all the delightful details for you.

Relaxation and Entertainment: From Serenity to Spectacle

Sea days on a Princess cruise are a destination in themselves. For ultimate tranquility, The Sanctuary is a must. This adults-only, spa-like retreat offers plush loungers, attentive service, and an atmosphere of pure serenity. For a different kind of rejuvenation, the Lotus Spa® offers a range of treatments from massages to facials.

When evening falls, the ship comes alive. The Princess Theater hosts dazzling, Broadway-caliber productions. You can cozy up with a blanket, popcorn, and a cocktail for Movies Under the Stars® on the top deck. Or you can simply find a spot in the Piazza to listen to a string quartet, a jazz trio, or a lively band. There is always something to captivate you.

The Itinerary: A Tapestry of Australian Wonders

While the ship is a destination, the ports of call are the soul of the journey. Princess’s Australia itineraries are masterfully designed to showcase the continent's incredible diversity. Here’s a glimpse of what your adventure could look like.

Sydney: An Iconic Welcome

Sailing into Sydney Harbour is a moment that will be etched in your memory forever. The graceful sails of the Opera House and the majestic arch of the Harbour Bridge create one of the most beautiful maritime arrivals on Earth. From here, the city is your oyster. You can take a surf lesson at the world-famous Bondi Beach, explore the historic cobblestone streets of The Rocks, or for the ultimate thrill, embark on the BridgeClimb for a 360-degree view you’ll never forget.

Melbourne: Culture, Coffee, and Coastal Drives

Melbourne is Sydney’s artsy, sophisticated sibling. The city thrives in its hidden laneways, where you’ll find world-class coffee, incredible street art, and unique boutiques. A Princess shore excursion can take you out of the city to witness the incredible spectacle of the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island or for a breathtaking drive along the Great Ocean Road to see the iconic Twelve Apostles sea stacks.

Hobart, Tasmania: A World Away

Dropping anchor in Tasmania feels like stepping into another world. The air is cleaner, the history is palpable, and the natural beauty is raw and untamed. Explore the poignant history of the Port Arthur Historic Site, a former penal colony, or wander through the vibrant Salamanca Market on a Saturday. The island’s reputation for gourmet food and wine is well-deserved, offering a delicious counterpoint to its rugged landscapes.

Fiordland National Park, New Zealand (Scenic Cruising)

Many Australia itineraries include a stunning detour to New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, and this day alone is worth the price of admission. The ship glides silently through the deep, dramatic waters of Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound. Sheer granite cliffs rise thousands of feet from the water, draped in mist and countless waterfalls. You’ll stand on your balcony, feeling utterly humbled by the scale and majesty of nature. It is a profoundly moving, almost spiritual experience.

This is just one example of the incredible journeys available. To explore all the possibilities, use the interactive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. You can filter by date, ship, and duration to find your perfect match. Of course, for personalized recommendations from a human expert, our cruise specialists are just a phone call away at 1 (888) 883‑0460. They know these itineraries inside and out.

The Princess Vibe: Effortless Elegance and Genuine Connection

So, who is a Princess cruise for? It’s for the traveler who appreciates refined service without stuffiness. It’s for couples seeking a romantic escape, multi-generational families looking to create shared memories, and solo travelers wanting a safe and engaging environment. The atmosphere onboard is one of relaxed sophistication. The service is intuitive and warm—your stateroom steward knows your name, and your favorite bartender remembers your drink.

Through partnerships like Discovery™ at SEA, there are also fantastic enrichment opportunities, from stargazing on the top deck to programs inspired by the hit show "Shark Week." It’s a cruise line that understands that travel is about more than just seeing new places; it’s about expanding your horizons.

Why You Should Book Now (and with Us)

Australia is a dream destination, and these Princess sailings are, understandably, incredibly popular. The best staterooms on the most desirable itineraries often sell out months, if not a full year, in advance. To secure your preferred dates and accommodations, the time to plan is now.

Booking through an experienced travel agency like ours provides value you simply can't get by booking direct. We are your advocates, your experts, and your partners in planning. We have access to exclusive promotions, potential onboard credits, and package deals you won't find anywhere else. More importantly, we take the stress out of the process. We handle the details, from flights and pre-cruise hotels to shore excursions and travel insurance, so you can focus on the excitement of the journey ahead.

Don't let this dream voyage remain on a wish list. The first step is a simple, no-obligation conversation. Let us show you what’s possible.

Plan Your Australia Adventure by filling out our short inquiry form. One of our dedicated Princess Cruises specialists will reach out to craft a custom quote tailored just for you.

Prefer to talk it through? Our friendly experts are waiting for your call at 1 (888) 883‑0460. Let's start planning your unforgettable journey Down Under today.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the best time of year to cruise to Australia?

The Australian cruise season typically runs from October to April, which corresponds with the country's spring, summer, and autumn. This period offers the best weather for exploring the coastal regions, with warm, sunny days perfect for sightseeing and beach activities.

What is included in a Princess Cruises fare?

Your cruise fare includes your stateroom accommodation, all meals in the main dining rooms and buffet, many snack and beverage options, onboard entertainment like theater shows and live music, and access to pools, hot tubs, and the fitness center. Specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, and shore excursions are typically extra, though packages like Princess Plus® and Princess Premier® can bundle many of these for an excellent value.

Is a balcony cabin worth it for an Australia cruise?

Absolutely. An Australia and New Zealand itinerary is one of the most scenic in the world. A balcony provides a private space to enjoy breathtaking moments like sailing into Sydney Harbour, cruising through the Fiordland National Park, or simply watching the incredible coastline drift by. It elevates the entire experience.

What is Princess MedallionClass?

MedallionClass is an innovative technology that enhances your cruise experience. A small, wearable Medallion device replaces your traditional keycard. It enables keyless stateroom entry, simplified purchasing, on-demand service (like ordering a drink to your lounge chair), and easy navigation around the ship via digital portals and your smartphone. It makes your vacation more seamless and personalized.

Why should I book my cruise through a travel agent?

Booking with a knowledgeable travel agent provides immense value. We act as your personal cruise concierge, offering expert advice to match you with the perfect ship and itinerary. We often have access to exclusive deals, amenities, or onboard spending money that you can't get on your own. Most importantly, we save you time and hassle by managing all the details of your booking, providing a single point of contact for any questions or support you need before, during, and after your trip.