Cruising in Sydney and NSW

Find yourself in the heart of Sydney at the Overseas Passenger Terminal in Circular Quay. With uninterrupted views of Sydney Harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, it’s one of the city’s most iconic destinations. Nestled right by the historic Rocks neighbourhood, with its cobbled laneways, artisan markets and some of the oldest pubs in Australia, your cabin will be a stone’s throw from zoos, galleries, restaurants, bars, theatres, world-class shopping and transport.  

White Bay Terminal sits a little further into the harbour in the leafy suburb of Rozelle, offering the thrill of sailing under the Sydney Harbour Bridge before docking. White Bay is close to the Balmain area, a trendy neighbourhood with relaxed pubs, top restaurants and boutique stores. The Sydney Lyric Theatre and The Star Sydney are also nearby – a culture-filled night on the town awaits.  

A natural paradise on the sparkling Sapphire Coast of NSW, Eden's extraordinary attractions range from spotting humpback whales in the deep blue waters of Twofold Bay to learning about the region's whaling heritage, bushwalking in Beowa National Park (formerly Ben Boyd National Park) and getting up close to marine life on a guided tour. The big blue is ever-expanding here, especially as you cruise in.

Batemans Bay, in the Eurobodalla region on the NSW South Coast, is the complete package. A place of beauty in and of itself, it’s also a great base for exploring all the wonders of this underrated area. The region boasts magnificent beaches, fresh seafood and a myriad of water sports both on the sea and in the sparkling Clyde River. The water, and world, is your oyster here.  

Kiama, a beautiful seaside town on the NSW South Coast, is best known for its beaches, blowholes, volcanic rock formations and scenic stretches of coastal walks. It’s a favourite with families looking for a laidback holiday spot and surfers chasing world-class waves. Look out for delicious food, plenty of history and some of the state’s best ocean pools. Dive in.  

Adorned by rainforest-covered escarpment and the stunning golden beaches of the South Coast, NSW’s third-largest city is a fun, vibrant and delicious urban centre with diverse appeal. Dial up your adventure by going skydiving, playing golf or cycling, or discover beautiful botanic gardens, relaxed cafes and restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. 

Newcastle revolves around the water: whether you’re swimming in gem-like ocean pools, surfing reliably good waves, or gazing out over the harbour from a scenic waterside perch. Cultural attractions take you from the cosmopolitan heart of town to buzzing new precincts distinguished by cutting-edge architecture and blazing street art. Exploration is never-ending when immersed in ‘Newy’, plus, the Hunter Valley and Port Stephens are right on its doorstep.   

South West Rocks is one of NSW’s best-kept secrets. A little pocket of tranquillity at the mouth of the Macleay River, it boasts stunning beaches, beautiful nature trails, incredible kangaroo spotting opportunities and well-preserved history (the ruins of Trial Bay Gaol are nestled in Arakoon National Park). Its waters attract fishermen and scuba divers from all over the world, while its string of beaches lined with Norfolk pines promise sun and surf without the crowds of better-known holiday hubs.  

There is so much more to Coffs Harbour than the Big Banana. It’s a great place for a beach holiday – with glorious stretches of sand galore and a laid-back coastal vibe – and makes a fantastic base to explore the rainforests and waterfalls of the Waterfall Way or the incredible Solitary Islands Marine Park. Peruse at your own pace, your adventure starts here...  

At the mouth of the Clarence River on the North Coast of NSW, Yamba is the coastal destination holiday dreams are made of. The town’s beaches are blissful, with world-beating surf breaks and the marine park is brimming with dolphins, sea turtles and migrating whales – all enveloped by national parks and wilderness reserves. The town’s dining scene will steal your attention too, even overtaking some of its flashier neighbours.