Cruising, as a way to travel

Cruising has become one of the most popular ways to travel in recent years - not just because it’s easy, but because it allows people to see more of the world without constantly being on the move.

Far from the outdated stereotypes, modern cruising now attracts a wide mix of travellers: solo travellers, couples, friends, and people who simply want travel to feel more relaxed and immersive. You unpack once, settle in, and wake up somewhere new - often in places that would take far more effort to reach by land.

At its best, cruising isn’t about schedules or spectacle. It’s about flow. About letting destinations connect naturally, and giving yourself space to enjoy the journey as much as the places themselves.

Popular cruise lines to know about

Modern cruising is supported by a wide range of well-established cruise lines, each offering a different style of experience - from relaxed and family-friendly to contemporary, premium, or adults-only.

Some of the most recognised names in cruising include Ambassador Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, P&O Cruises World Cruising, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, and Virgin Voyages.

Each of these lines caters to different travel styles - whether you’re looking for ease and familiarity, a more refined onboard experience, flexible dining and activities, or something modern and adults-focused.

Knowing the names is helpful, but choosing the right fit matters far more than choosing the biggest or most popular option. That’s where guidance can make all the difference.Write your text here...

What’s hot in cruising right now

Cruising continues to evolve, and some of the most exciting options right now are less about floating cities - and more about experience-led journeys that combine movement, scenery, and cultural depth.

Here are a few styles of cruising that travellers are especially drawn to at the moment:

11-night Mekong River Cruise -Vietnam & Cambodia

with Travelmarvel | RV Lotus

Route: Ho Chi Minh City → Siem Reap
Duration: 11 nights
From: A$4,295 per person (suite)

This immersive Mekong River cruise is a beautiful way to experience Vietnam and Cambodia at a slower, more meaningful pace. Travelling by river allows you to move through cities, villages, and rural landscapes seamlessly — without the constant packing, flights, or hotel changes.

The journey includes time in Ho Chi Minh City, a series of Mekong Delta towns and river ports, cultural highlights across Cambodia, and finishes in Siem Reap, home to the iconic Angkor temples. Along the way, you’ll experience daily life on the river, guided excursions, and moments of quiet observation that are hard to access any other way.

This style of cruising is ideal if you want:

• cultural depth without travel fatigue

• a comfortable, well-paced itinerary

• destinations that feel connected, not rushed

• a balance of guided experiences and downtime

Important to know

• Prices and ports may vary by departure date

• River conditions and weather can affect routing

• A great option for travellers who value comfort, culture, and ease

👉 Ask us about dates, inclusions, and whether this cruise fits your plans.

7-night Western Mediterranean Cruise

with MSC Cruises | MSC World Europa

Route: Roundtrip from Marseille, France
Duration: 7 nights
From: A$1,219 per person (inside cabin, incl. taxes & fees)

This Western Mediterranean cruise is a classic introduction to European cruising, combining iconic cities, coastal scenery, and effortless travel into one smooth week-long journey.

Sailing aboard the modern MSC World Europa, the itinerary includes stops in Marseille (France), Genoa & Portofino (Italy), Rome via Civitavecchia, Messina (Sicily), Valletta (Malta), and Barcelona (Spain) — all without the need to change hotels or juggle transport between countries.

It’s a great option if you want:

• a snapshot of Southern Europe in a short timeframe

• easy access to major cities and historic ports

• a contemporary ship with plenty of choice onboard

• excellent value for a first or casual cruise experience

With multiple cabin categories available — from inside to balcony and suites — this cruise suits travellers who want flexibility in both comfort and budget.

Important to know

• Prices vary by departure date and cabin type

• Ports of call may change due to weather or operational reasons

• A strong option for travellers new to cruising or short on time

👉 Interested in Mediterranean cruising? Let’s see if this itinerary fits your plans.

Fly · Stay · Cruise

The Best of the Mediterranean - 24 nights

✈️ Fly

Return full-service economy flights from Australia are included, with departures available from major cities including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth.
Travelling in late September means warm weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed Mediterranean experience.

🏨 Stay

• 3 nights in Rome before the cruise

• 1 night in Rome at the end of the journey

• Accommodation at Al Manthia Hotel or similar (room only)

This allows time to settle in, explore Rome at a comfortable pace, and finish the journey without rushing straight to the airport.

🚢 Cruise

21-night Mediterranean cruise aboard Princess Cruises’ brand-new Sun Princess, sailing roundtrip from Civitavecchia (Rome).

The itinerary includes standout destinations across Italy, Greece, Turkey, Spain, France, and Montenegro, with highlights such as:

• Naples (Capri & Pompeii)

• Athens & Mykonos

• Kusadasi (Ephesus)

• Barcelona & Ibiza

• Marseille (Provence), Genoa, and La Spezia (Florence & Pisa)

On board, you’ll enjoy:

• Main meals and entertainment

• Princess PLUS®, including beverages, Wi-Fi, casual dining, and room service

• MedallionClass® service for a seamless, personalised cruise experience

From: A$9,398 per person (inside cabin, incl. taxes & fees)
Other cabin options available: outside, balcony, and suite.

Good to know

• Availability and pricing can change

• Ports may vary due to operational or weather conditions

• Gratuities may be additional (depending on cruise line policy)

👉 Curious if this fly–stay–cruise style suits your travel plans? Let’s talk it through.