The latest and most popular cruise ship reviews from our editorial team, selected for Australian travelers.
Our full review of Coral Princess covers the spacious balcony cabins, the specialty dining at Sabatini's, and the lively evening entertainment in the Princess Theater. A refined choice for longer Australian coastal voyages.
Reviewed 14 June 2025
Pacific Adventure is built for family-friendly cruising from Sydney. Expect a huge water park, casual dining hubs, and a relaxed onboard atmosphere that suits first-time cruisers and multi-generational groups.
Reviewed 28 May 2025
After a major refurbishment, Quantum of the Seas now features the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, enhanced dining venues, and refreshed staterooms. A technology-forward ship with plenty of wow factor.
Reviewed 11 May 2025
Fresh editorial reviews from our team, with practical insights for your next voyage.
Celebrity Edge delivers a refined onboard experience with the Magic Carpet platform, innovative Infinite Veranda cabins, and a strong focus on contemporary dining. The ship feels spacious even on sea days.
Published 2 July 2025
Ovation of the Seas packs a huge range of activities into a ship that regularly sails from Sydney. The North Star observation capsule and Two70 venue are standout features for Australian cruisers.
Published 25 June 2025
Viking Orion offers a quieter, more destination-focused style of cruising. The ship's Scandinavian design, included shore excursions, and excellent enrichment program make it a top pick for thoughtful travelers.
Published 18 June 2025
Choose the right cabin category with our practical comparisons and guides.
Choosing the right cabin is one of the most important decisions for any cruise. Inside cabins offer the best value and are perfect for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring the ship. Oceanview cabins add natural light and a window to the sea, while balcony cabins provide private outdoor space for morning coffee or sunset watching. Suites add extra square metres, priority boarding, and often access to exclusive lounges and dining venues.
Our cabin guides compare typical sizes, amenities, and price ranges across major cruise lines. We also explain which decks are quietest, how to avoid cabins near high-traffic areas, and when it is worth paying extra for a balcony on scenic itineraries.
| Cabin Type | Typical Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Inside | 14–17 m² | No window, best value |
| Oceanview | 16–19 m² | Window or porthole |
| Balcony | 19–25 m² | Private verandah |
| Suite | 28–60+ m² | Extra space, priority perks |
From specialty restaurants to casual buffets, we review the full dining experience.
We review the standout specialty venues across major cruise lines, from French bistros to Japanese teppanyaki. Expect detailed notes on menu quality, service, and whether the cover charge is justified.
Main dining rooms offer multi-course meals with rotating menus. Our guides explain dress codes, flexible dining times, and how to make the most of the experience without feeling rushed.
Casual venues and buffets keep you fuelled between activities. We assess variety, food quality, peak-hour crowding, and whether the included options are strong enough to skip paid dining.
Understand the facilities and deck layouts that shape your onboard experience.
Modern cruise ships are floating resorts with carefully planned deck layouts. Pools, spas, sports courts, and sun decks are usually concentrated on upper decks, while dining venues and entertainment spaces occupy the middle decks. Lower decks house guest services, medical facilities, and tender boarding areas.
Our infrastructure guides explain how to navigate these spaces efficiently. We highlight accessibility features, quiet zones, and the best spots for sunrise or sunset views. Understanding the deck plan before you board can save hours of wandering.
View Infrastructure GuidesMost major cruise ships include a casino, typically open only while the ship is in international waters. You will find slot machines, blackjack, roulette, poker, and occasionally craps or baccarat. The casino is usually located on a lower deck near other evening entertainment venues.
Age restrictions vary by cruise line but are generally 18 or 21. Our dedicated casino section explains the games, house rules, and etiquette so you can play with confidence. We also cover responsible gambling practices and how to set a sensible budget before you sit down.
Gambling should always be treated as entertainment, not a way to make money. Set time and money limits before you play, and never gamble with funds needed for essentials. If gambling stops being enjoyable, take a break or seek support. Australian residents can contact Gambling Help Online at 1800 858 858 for free, confidential advice.
Find inspiration for your next departure port or shore excursion.
Sydney is Australia's busiest cruise homeport. Our guide covers the Overseas Passenger Terminal, White Bay, transport connections, and the best pre- and post-cruise stays in the harbour city.
From Noumea to Mystery Island, the South Pacific offers idyllic beaches, snorkelling, and warm local culture. Our destination guides explain the best shore excursions and what to expect at each port.
Practical advice to make your cruise smoother and more enjoyable.
Recent editorial features from across the portal.
We explain the rules, opening hours, and house policies that shape the onboard casino experience, plus how to play responsibly.
We compare specialty restaurant prices and quality across major cruise lines to help you decide where to spend your dining budget.
Make the most of your first full day at sea with our practical guide to ship orientation, activity planning, and quiet spots.
Browse our detailed reviews and practical guides to find the right ship, cabin, and itinerary for your next Australian departure.
