cruises europe to australia

UK to Australia Cruises and Australia to UK Cruises

There are cruises from the UK to Australia and the reverse -- they are half of a complete world cruise. A cruise to Australia from Great Britain is the comfortable and luxurious way to go down under.

England to Australia cruises depart from the port of Southampton (not far from London) and end in Sydney. Australia to England cruises are simply the opposite, departing from Sydney and endind in Southampton.

Cruises to Australia from the UK

January 11, 2024: 52-night cruise to Australia on Cunard Line . One-way from Southampton (England) to Sydney (Australia). Visit Hamilton (Bermuda), Port Canaveral (Florida), Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Aruba, Panama Canal, Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), San Francisco (California), Honolulu (Hawaii), Apia (Samoa), Suva (Fiji), Auckland (New Zealand), Wellington (New Zealand) and Christchurch (New Zealand).

January 9, 2025: 49-night cruise to Australia on Cunard Line . One-way from Southampton (England) to Sydney (Australia). Visit New York (New York), Aruba, the Panama Canal, Puerto Quetzal (Guatemala), Cabo San Lucas (Mexico), San Francisco (California), Honolulu (Hawaii), Apia (Samoa), Nuku'alofa (Tonga), Auckland (New Zealand), Tauranga (New Zealand) and Bay of Islands (New Zealand).

Cruises to the UK from Australia

February 28, 2025: 58-night cruise to England on Cunard Line . One-way from Sydney (Australia) to Southampton (England). Visit Brisbane (Australia), Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Manila (Philippines), Hong Kong (China), Phu My (Vietnam), Singapore, Port Kelang (Malaysia), Penang (Malaysia), Port Louis (Mauritius), Durban (South Africa), Cape Town (South Africa), Walvis Bay (Namibia), Dakar (Senegal) and Tenerife (Spain).

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Australia & New Zealand Cruises

Explore the wonders down under on a cruise to new zealand and australia, why cruise to australia & new zealand.

Epic landscapes, ancient cultures and laid-back charm – experience it all on board an Australia & New Zealand / Aotearoa cruise with Princess the #1 cruise line in Australia. We’ll take you to golden beaches, rugged outback, world-class cities and beyond. And on board, delight in  local food  and entertainment as our  Across the Ditch  immersive program brings the very best of New Zealand to you.

Australia Cruises

Your choice of Australian cruise ports is as grand as the continent itself. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the Sydney Opera House. Trek through one of the world’s last temperate rainforests in Tasmania, sample award-winning wine in Margaret River and snorkel in the crystalline waters of the Great Barrier Reef or ride camelback on a beach in  Broome .

New Zealand Cruises

Marvel at the spectacular scenery of  Fiordland National Park / Piopiotahi , voted one of the 7 Cruise World Wonders by  Condé Nast Traveler . Immerse yourself in Māori culture, see glowworms twinkle in underground caves outside  Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau , stroll the famed Art Deco city of Napier / Ahuriri, and peek into moviemaking magic with  The Lord of the Rings  tour in  Wellington .

The wonders of Australia and New Zealand are like no other! From iconic  cruises from Sydney  to the coastal beauty of  Brisbane / Meeanjin , the rich culture of  Melbourne , the famed wine country of  Perth (Fremantle) / Boorloo (Walyalup)  and  Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau , the land of the Māori, more departures to and from  Adelaide / Tarndanya  than ever before – each city possesses a vibrant spirit and a unique personality worth discovering.

2025 - 2026 Australia and New Zealand New Cruise Itineraries. Learn more

Soak in Local Flavors and Revel in Rich Traditions

Food & beverage on australia & new zealand / aotearoa cruises.

• Enjoy delicious new culinary experiences that highlight the region created exclusively for Princess.
• Our beverage menus include popular regional beer, wine and whisky selections for a taste of local flavors.

Activities on Australia & New Zealand / Aotearoa cruises

Day or night, you'll discover unique experiences that give you a new perspective on the region.

• Watch feature films with a local twist – such as  The Lord of the Rings  trilogy and  The Piano  – on deck at our Movies Under the Stars® outdoor theater.
• Join the performers as you learn the legend of the haka, an ancient Māori war dance.

Photo: Experience Māori culture on board with our Matariki Festival

Discover More Ashore on a Princess ® Cruise to Australia & New Zealand / Aotearoa

Australia & new zealand / aotearoa cruise shore excursions.

Princess Cruises offers a vast array of award-winning excursions, including several  Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ Recommended and Exclusive tours  that provide unique experiences you’ll never forget, such as snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef or bushwalking in the Blue Mountains.

Photo: The technicolor beauty of the Great Barrier Reef

Australia Cruisetour Vacations

For the ultimate adventure, choose an in-depth Princess Cruisetour Vacation that combines your cruise with a multiple-night land tour. Venture into Australia’s rugged outback for a look at fabled Uluru (Ayers Rock), and later dive into the brilliant underwater colors of the Great Barrier Reef.

Photo: The beauty of Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Australia & New Zealand Cruise Articles

Read about exotic isles, legendary destinations, and prepare to explore a region unlike any other on your Australia and New Zealand cruise.

Visit iconic landmarks in Australia, strikingly diverse landscapes in New Zealand, and the palm-fringed islands of the South Pacific.

Things to Do in Brisbane Cruise Port for Couples, Singles & Families

Find things to do in Brisbane, Australia, while you're in port.

5 Things to Bring Back from Your Australia Cruise

Wondering what to bring back from your Australia cruise?

Tauranga Shore Excursions: Maori Culture and History Comes Alive

Explore foreign lands when you embark on a Tauranga shore excursions.

10 Melbourne Travel Tips to Help Cruisers Fit in with Locals

These 10 Melbourne travel tips from Princess Cruises will help you experience the best of this iconic Australian city as only a local would.

Fiordland National Park Excursions: Experience the Majesty of New Zealand

Witness the majestic beauty of New Zealand on Fiordland National Park cruise excursions.

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Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

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Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

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Voyage dates

Voyage length, cruise lines, customer review, from/to port, from country, from/to country, includes flight, onboard language.

Itinerary: Hamburg, Lisbon, Arrecife, Sta. Cruz, Mindelo, Praia, Natal, Recife, Salvador de Bahia, Ilhéus, Armação dos Búzios, Rio de Janeiro, Ilhabela, Portobelo, Rio Grande, Punta del Este, Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Puerto Madryn, Ushuaia, Puerto Williams, Punta Arenas, Castro, Puerto Montt, San Antonio, Robinson Crusoe Island, Hangaroa, Bounty Bay, Fakarava, Papeete, Moorea, Huahine, Bora Bora, Rarotonga, Auckland, Bay of Islands, Gisborne, Napier, Picton, Akaroa, Timaru, Port Chalmers, Hobart, Port Arthur, Eden, Sydney, Burnie, Melbourne, Adelaide, Kingscote, Esperance, Bunbury, Fremantle, Geraldton, Exmouth, Broome, Waikelo, Komodo, Benoa, Pare Pare, Tolitoli, Kota Kinabalu, Muara, Terempa, Singapore, Port Klang, Penang, Sabang, Kochi, Mumbai, Muscat, Khasab, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Muscat, Salalah, Jeddah, Yanbu al Bahr, Hurghada, Aqaba, Eilat, Port Said, Giardini Naxos, Savona

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Australia & New Zealand Cruises

Gain deep insight into the native and European cultures of Australia and New Zealand. Admire the Victorian treasures of Dunedin, the fragrant English gardens of Christchurch and thrilling dances of the Māori.

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Grand Australia Circumnavigation

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Viking World Cruise

Viking World Journeys

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Highlights of australia & new zealand cruises.

Experience the natural wonders and fanciful Victorian-era cities of Australia & New Zealand. Spot the famous Tasmanian devil and savor fine wines from the region’s vineyards. Here are some highlights of this fascinating itinerary through the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea:

• Lively Sydney and its stunning Opera House
• New Zealand’s breathtaking Milford and Doubtful Sounds
• Lilies and irises blooming within Christchurch’s famed Botanic Gardens
• Earthy sounds of the traditional Aborigine didgeridoo
• Delicious Pacific oysters and fine wine in Tasmania
• Native creatures such as kangaroos and koalas

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Cruises to Europe - Australia’s best Europe Cruise Deals

Europe is an amazing place – a historical, cultural and geographical heavyweight. From its Northern Lights to its Southern shores, Europe keeps on thrilling and surprising with her extraordinary wealth of sights, sounds and people.

European destinations include Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Ukraine, Czech Republic, Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, France, Luxembourg, Slovakia, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Moldova, Belarus

Europe also includes the gorgeous Mediteranean. See Mediterranean Cruise Deals here

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Highlights of europe.

Paris, France

The cloud-piercing, wrought-iron Eiffel Tower, broad Arc de Triomphe guarding the glamorous avenue des Champs-Élysées, gargoyled Notre Dame cathedral, lamplit bridges spanning the Seine and art nouveau cafes' wicker-chair-lined terraces are enduring Parisian emblems. It welcomes millions of visitors every year, in reverence of its cityscape, culture and lifestyle. With museums housing impressive collections of artworks and sculptures, cathedrals and churches intricately designed, palaces lavishly decorated and hundreds of parks providing green spaces and tranquillity.

Rome, Italy

The result of 3000 years of development, Rome's cityscape is an exhilarating spectacle. Ancient icons such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon recall the city’s golden age as caput mundi (capital of the world), while its many monumental basilicas testify to its historical role as seat of the Catholic Church. Lording it over the skyline, St Peter’s Basilica is the Vatican’s epic showpiece church, a towering masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Elsewhere, ornate piazzas and fountains add a baroque flourish to the city's captivating streets.

Spain’s second largest and definitely most cosmopolitan city, and one of the Mediterranean’s busiest ports. Barcelona offers the best of both worlds, situated on the Costa Brava on the Spanish Mediterranean coast, the city gently rises up from the coastline through the city and up into a range of wooded hills. Famous for breaking ground art, Gaudi architecture and a world class food scene; it’s the perfect city to relax, stroll around and enjoy its unique way of life.

Ships visting Europe

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2024 Europe Cruises

We’re excited to introduce our new Europe Season. We have six award-winning ships from our fleet in these waters, including three of our amazing Celebrity Edge® Series ships, featuring our newest ship, Celebrity Ascent SM . For the first time, we’re excited to have our revolutionary Edge® Series ship, Celebrity Apex®, sailing from Southampton for a full season.Scandinavia, Netherlands, Ireland, and Iceland, must-see places for every world traveler. With seven departure ports across Europe and itineraries ranging from 4 to 14 nights, you’re sure to find the perfect sailing to satisfy your wanderlust. 

With this new season, we’re also introducing more new places we’ve ever gone before, including Bordeaux (Pauillac), France; Brindisi and Trieste, Italy; and Volos and Kavala, Greece. Plus, we’re returning to some of our favorite locations in Europe that we haven’t visited in some time, such as the Amalfi Coast of Italy and Gdansk (Gdynia), Poland. 

Want to check that transatlantic crossing off your travel list? We’ve got you covered with new transatlantic itineraries that begin in, and visit some of, the best cities in Europe. 

Join us on a journey where you’ll experience the Old World to the fullest with the only premium cruise line sailing there.

Itineraries

Brindisi, italy.

Known as the “Gateway to the East,” Brindisi is one of the largest cities in Italy’s Apulia region and one of the most active trading hubs in the country. Located on the Adriatic coast of Southern Italy, Brindisi will greet you with its crystal-clear waters and historic city views. After the bombings of World War II, the city spent many years rebuilding and now hosts a unique mix of historic and contemporary architecture, including churches and castles like Castello Alfonsino, the Church of Santa Maria del Casale, Santa Maria del Casale, and the Forte a Mare Castle. Beautiful beaches, like Lido Azzurro and Torre Guaceto, are also close by and will offer you a great place to relax.

Bordeaux (Pauillac), France

A destination for wine-lovers, food-lovers, and city ramblers, southern French city and wine region Bordeaux will offer you much more than only its famous red wine. With stunning classical, neo-classical, and urban architecture, historical monuments, incredible art museums, and a buzzing dining and drinking scene, this port city and UNESCO World Heritage site rivals the likes of Paris.

Kavala, Greece

Tucked into the northeastern coast of mainland Greece, just below the Bulgarian border, the hillside city of Kavala overlooks the Aegean Sea and is the main seaport of eastern Macedonia. Kavala will offer you a surprising mix of history, culture, and architecture—archeological sites, monuments, cobblestone streets, wooden balconies lined with flowers, colorful palaces, and hilltop fortresses—as well as diverse landscapes like lush wetlands, lagoons, inland lakes, beaches, and diverse flora and fauna.

Trieste, Italy

Old-World Trieste—a city that draws attention from travelers around the world—sits at a northeastern corner of Italy and brings together the Latin, Slavic, and Germanic cultures of the Adriatic Sea. The Roman and Byzantine empires ruled here once upon a time, and their influences can be seen in the different types of architecture of the cityscape. You can experience Trieste's many cultures through its cozy coffeehouses, seafood restaurants, open-air plazas, Old World churches, and museums.

Volos, Greece

Volos, Greece's newest port city, is located at the foot of Mount Pelion and the innermost point of the Pagasetic Gulf. As an important industrial center and bridge between Europe and Asia, this lively seafront destination offers you many things to discover—local cultural activities, museums, cafes, restaurants, and an exciting nightlife area. You will also enjoy its unique architecture, nearby lush mountain ranges, and golden beaches. 

Returning Ports

Gdansk (Gdynia), Poland

Amalfi Coast of Italy

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Athens (Piraeus)

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Southampton

Ravenna (Venice)

Amalfi Coast, Italy

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Mykonos, Greece

Naples, Italy

Oslo, Norway

Palma De Mallorca, Spain

Porto, Portugal

Reykjavik, Iceland

Santorini, Greece

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Europe Cruises

Explore Europe’s history, cultures and breathtaking beauty on an unforgettable cruise vacation. Choose from an array of carefully crafted itineraries offering more time in port to explore unique destinations and iconic landmarks. A lifetime of memories awaits.

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Explore the Different Regions of Europe

Mediterranean Cruises

A Mediterranean cruise transports you to bustling cities, secret escapes, and even back in time. Explore the birthplace of democracy on a cruise to Greece. Tour influential architecture in Barcelona. Marvel at Renaissance art on a cruise to Italy.

Northern Europe Cruises

Voyage in the path of Vikings to incredible Northern Europe destinations. Enjoy a rich array of itineraries from the colorful, fashion-forward Copenhagen, to the glass-like waters of Norway’s fjords.

Scandinavia & Baltic Sea Cruises

Romantic seascapes and fairytale cities await in Scandinavia. Amble medieval town centers and squares. Stroll among centuries-old, spired churches and castles. Sample simple, yet flavorful cuisine and see inspirational design.

Transatlantic Cruises

Channel your inner explorer on a transatlantic Europe cruise. Unwind as you take in the beauty of the Atlantic and enjoy more time at off-the-beaten-path Europe destinations and remote islands.

Make the Most of Your European Cruise Vacation

Peruse our convenient Europe departure ports. Whether you’re interested in a 7-day cruise or a long voyage, your dream port is where the adventure begins.

Cruises from Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Cruises from Barcelona, Spain

Cruises From Copenhagen, Denmark

Europe Departure Ports

Featured european cruise ports.

Eidfjord, Norway

In the shadow of snowy peaks and near stunning blue-green fjords, Eidfjord is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful villages in Norway.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini, the jewel in the crown of Greece's Cyclades, is best known as the island with the giant volcanic caldera at its heart.

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Rome is both a modern bustling city and an ancient open-air museum. You can walk in the footsteps of emperors, have coffee in Renaissance piazzas and see contemporary art all in one afternoon.

Barcelona, Spain

On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architecture—Gaudí and Picasso both called it home—and lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital.

Istanbul, Turkey

Arriving in Istanbul by ship is unforgettable. Take in views of Istanbul’s best attractions—the shores of Asia to the east, the first Bosphorus Bridge to the north, and the “old Istanbul” to the south.

EXPLORE ALL EUROPEAN CRUISE PORTS

Featured europe shore excursions.

From cooking classes to architecture tours and thrilling outdoor adventures, our shore excursions are the easiest way to explore the Old Continent.

A Walk Through Cádiz & The Flamenco Dance

Fjords & Glaciers Seaplane Flightseeing

Iceland on horseback, europe travel tips.

Find out what to experience on your Europe cruise. Read insider tips and recommendations for things to see and do in beloved European destinations.

Europe Travel Guide & Packing List

Here’s what to pack for a European cruise and shore excursions, so you can feel comfortable and prepared for your adventures.

Best Time for a Mediterranean Cruise

Find out the best time of year to cruise the Mediterranean, depending on what you want to experience.

Best Fjords in Norway

Discover our top 5 picks for the best fjords in Norway—and what makes each one unique.

Europe Cruise Onboard Experience

Travel to Europe’s most fascinating destinations on perfectly sized cruise ships offering unmatched service and an award-winning onboard experience. Enjoy entertainment for every preference and the best live music at sea. 

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Onboard activities, europe vacation packages.

Add flights and hotels before or after your cruise (or both!). Arrange ground transportation to create a custom cruise package.

Find Flights To Europe

Book flights that depart and arrive in time for your Europe cruise with Holland America Line Flight Ease®. Find low prices, loads of options, and enjoy flexibility and support should plans change.

Add a Hotel Package

Extend your trip by a few days. Add a hotel package to your Europe cruise and indulge in a comfortable, convenient overnight before or after your cruise.

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We make it easy to schedule transfers between the airport and cruise ship. Arrange ground transportation ahead of time and breeze to and from your cruise.

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Europe Cruises    |    Mediterranean Cruises    |    Northern Europe Cruises    |    Scandinavia & Baltic Sea Cruises    |    Transatlantic Cruises

Resilient Lady is officially on her way to Australia.

Our third lady ship is southern-bound for her first season in oceania..

It’s been years in the making, and it’s finally here: Virgin Voyages’ triumphant arrival in Australia. The country’s stunning scale and natural diversity make it a dream to experience by cruise, and our voyages kick off with the Aussie MerMaiden voyage, sailing from Melbourne on 11 December. Join us for A Taste of Virgin Voyages if you want a sneak peek of the Virgin experience in advance of our first sailing — and Sailors taking our MerMaiden voyage, be ready for some surprises we’ve cooked up specially for the occasion 😉

We’re arriving in Australia with a bang, but that’s nothing new for us. When we sailed our way into the cruise industry, we turned heads and shook things up. Since then, Sailors and industry publications alike can’t stop praising the quality and luxuriousness of our on board restaurants, our shows and entertainment offerings, and our ships in general. (This year, we took home the award for Best Large Cruise Ship in Conde Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards).  

Always Included Luxury

The principle that Virgin Voyages far ahead of the pack is something we call Always Included Luxury — to us, it means our Sailors should not be lured on board only to be tricked into costly upgrades, or charged for things that should be free at sea. All meals during your voyage — in our 20+ eateries, which have won awards for the inventiveness of their menus — are included in the cost of your voyage. So are gratuities, so you don’t have to stress about tipping at the end of the meal. And so are group fitness classes, essential beverages (water, soda, juice, drip coffee, tea), our award-winning on board shows, and WiFi — over $1,000 in luxuries on every single voyage.

You can have full nights on board that feel exactly like (an elevated version of) the things you’d do with friends on land. Go to dinner at a Korean BBQ restaurant , see a Broadway-quality show, go dancing at our on board club The Manor , and then unwind with a nightcap in our spirit-forward bar On the Rocks. Start the next morning with a spin class and a mud bath at Redemption Spa . Then relax by the pool and do it all over again.  

Make a difference with the Great Reef Census

Something special we’re doing on our MerMaiden, in hopes of being a force for positive change in our new home of Australia, is partnering with the incredible Great Reef Census project. The Great Barrier Reef is the largest reef system in the world, and an absolute treasure of the Australian continent. On board the Aussie MerMaiden voyage, we’re offering Sailors a chance to help protect it, led by our resident scientists. The Great Reef Census is a campaign to survey the Great Barrier Reef’s health, using 75,000 images that span its 2,300km length. Information sessions hosted every 30 minutes on board will train you how to use your eyes to identify problem spots in the reef — and flag them to the ecologists who can help nurse those areas back to good health by planting new coral. It only takes a few minutes of observation to make a difference, but Sailors are free to stay and enjoy some special incentives along the way.   We’re excited to be here, Australia. If you want to wait out on the dock blowing kisses until Resilient Lady arrives in Melbourne, we won’t be mad 😘

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A brilliant bit of news about our 4th ship., our third lady ship is making waves right on time., resilient lady’s strong and stunning mermaid is officially here..

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How to travel by train & ship

From the uk to australia.

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Train travel UK & Ireland...

Train travel in europe..., train travel in asia..., train travel in africa..., train travel in america..., train travel in australasia, europe to australia without flying....

It's a long way to Oz.  There are two options to get there from the UK without flying:

Option 1, Europe to Australia via the Trans-Siberian Railway .  You can travel by train from London to Moscow, then by Trans-Siberian Railway to China & the Far East, then catch a passenger-carrying freighter (if you can find one!) or cruise ship to Australia.  This is a real adventure, and a popular choice with lots to see on the way.  Not currently feasible because of the war in Ukraine & Russia being off limits .

Option 2, Europe to Australia by sea .  You can go all the way from the UK to Australia or New Zealand by sea, either a leisurely direct voyage by infrequent round-the-world cruise, or by one of the few remaining passenger-carrying freighters, sometimes with the need to switch ships in either the USA or SE Asia.  Expect Europe to Australia by sea to take at least 32-40 days and cost at least £4,000+ one-way by freighter including cabin & meals, much more if you use a cruise.

This page outlines the journey and how to go about putting such a trip together, with links to other pages for more detailed information about each part of the journey.  Please remember this is not a tour or a package, just some guidance in putting your own independent trip together using scheduled train services across Europe and Asia.

Europe to Australia by sea

By freighter or cruise ship.

If you'd been going to Australia in the first half of the 20th century, you could have caught the fortnightly P&O liner from Southampton to Sydney, taking several weeks.  These days there are no regular passenger ships from the UK or Europe to Australia, and your choice is limited to one of these, if currently operating:

There are occasional round-the-world cruises from Europe to Australia, stopping at various places on the way.  Some sail westward around the world via the Panama Canal, others sail eastwards via either the Suez Canal or South Africa and the Cape of Good Hope.  This is the most comfortable but expensive option.

There are freighters which take a limited number of passengers although they are now getting very thin on the ground.  There are a mere handful of direct Europe-Australia freighters which carry a few passengers, or there are freighters from Europe to SE Asia where you can change onto another freighter or a cruise ship from SE Asia to Australia.

You can take the Queen Mary 2 from Europe to New York (or use a passenger-carrying freighter), take a train from coast to coast across the United States , then take a passenger-carrying freighter to Australia from the Pacific seaboard of the USA. 

To find out more, and to book a cruise or freighter passage to Australia, try the following sites:

Europe to Australia by Trans-Siberian Railway

Overland to the far east by train.

It's possible to travel most of the way from London to Australia by train via the Trans-Siberian Railway.  In fact, quite a number people travel this way.  Time-wise, we're talking 4-5 weeks one-way, minimum.  But it's a journey of a lifetime.

Update 2024:  There is a war in Ukraine, travel to Russia is inadvisable, there are currently no international trains to Moscow and no Moscow-Beijing trains.

Route, timetable & costs

Travel tickets alone costs only £750 or so from London as far as Singapore, but you must add food, hotels, and tours along the way.  The links below cover travel in either direction, from London to Australia or Australia to London, follow the links to see details of prices and timetables for each section.

Step 1:  London to Moscow by train .  Daily departures taking 2 nights.  Spend at least 1 night in Moscow.

Step 2:  Moscow to Beijing by Trans-Siberian Railway   Two direct trains every week each taking 6 nights.  Spend at least 1 night in Beijing.

Step 3:  Beijing to Hanoi by train A train runs twice a week taking 2 nights, or you can travel any day with a change of train at Nanning.  Spend at least 1 night in Hanoi.

Step 4:  Hanoi to Saigon by train   Several trains daily, 2 nights.  Why not stop off to see Hue or Hoi An?  Spend at least 1 night in Saigon.

Step 5:  Saigon-Phnom Penh by bus Daily, 1 day.  Spend at least 1 night in PP.

Step 6:  Phnom Penh-Bangkok by bus to the border at Poiphet, then local train from Aranyaprathet to Bangkok .

Step 7:  Bangkok to Singapore by train .  Daily, 2 nights.

Step 8:  The final sea voyage from Asia to Australia is the problem:

You can get from Singapore as far as Bali in Indonesia by scheduled ferry, train, ferry & bus using the ferries from Singapore to Jakarta , see the Indonesia page .  But there are no regular passenger ships to Australia from Singapore or Indonesia or anywhere in the Far East .  And don't bother trying to island hop down to Dili in East Timor, it may look the closest land to Darwin, but there are absolutely no ferries of any kind from there to Australia.

You therefore need an infrequent passenger-carrying freighter for the last leg from Southeast Asia to Australia.  There are one or two Asia-Australia freighters that will carry passengers.  They have very very few passenger places and get booked up, so book early.  Freighter travel is not cheap, with limited places in high demand.  Also bear in mind that schedules can change according to freight requirements, a ship can easily leave a day or two earlier than originally scheduled, so build in plenty of leeway!

Option 1 , shipping company CMA CGM have freight ships which carry a limited number of passengers between Port Klang in Malaysia & Fremantle near Perth in Australia every 46 days or so.  The voyage takes 7-10 days and costs around €1,300 for one person in a private cabin with meals included.  CMA CGM also have ships between Singapore & Brisbane roughly once a month taking 14 days.  Contact them directly via their website, www.voyagesencargo.com .  Various agencies can also book this freighter route for you, presumably with an added fee or mark-up, such as thecruisepeople.wordpress.com & www.traveltips.com .

Option 2 , try German agency www.slowtravel-experience.com who can offer infrequent sailings between Singapore & Fremantle near Perth on the ship MOL Guardian .

Option 3 , talk to Swiss company www.shipntrain.ch .  They have twice-monthly freighter sailings from Singapore to Fremantle (Perth) taking 7 days.  Their website is in German, so use Google language tools to translate it.  They also have a monthly Singapore-Melbourne freighter taking 15 days.

Feedback on freighter booking & travel would be appreciated.

How to plan & arrange this trip

There aren't any travel agencies who can arrange the whole trip from Europe to Australia, so you will need to plan and arrange each stage of the journey yourself.  It's an exercise in project management, and I use a simple spreadsheet technique like this to plan an itinerary and budget.  Unless time is absolutely no object, you should book the key sections in advance through various travel agencies, for example, book London-Moscow as shown on the London to Russia page , then book Moscow-Beijing & Beijing-Hanoi through a local Russian agency such as Svezhy Veter.  You also need to pre-book the freighter from Asia to Australia, as places are limited.  Tickets for other parts of the trip, for example, Hanoi-Saigon-Phnom Penh-Bangkok can all be bought locally, as you go along.  The place to start is the sea section from Asia to Australia, as that will determine the dates for the rest of the trip.

You'll need to pre-arrange visas for Belarus, Russia, possibly Mongolia, China & Vietnam.  Cambodian visas can be obtained at the frontier.  In many ways, complying with the various visa requirements (and in some cases, requirements for confirmed onward tickets to be held) is actually the biggest hassle, not buying the tickets for the trains, so check this out carefully using the relevant embassy websites.

So where do you start?

First, read through the seat61 pages linked above, as these explain the options for each stage of the journey.

Then sketch out your itinerary using a simple spreadsheet like this , deciding where and for how long you want to stop off.

Next, check out the visa situation for each country.

Finally, follow the advice on each seat61 page to buy tickets for each train journey that you want to pre-book.

Request for more information

If anyone has any more information, an account of this journey, photos or travel reports that would be useful for this page, please e-mail me !

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Announcing the Hot List Winners of 2024

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants , and cruise ships , a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech, or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List hotel winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North Island Okavango

Angama Amboseli

Jannah Lamu

Farasha Farmhouse , Marrakech

Kozo Kigali

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island — Seychelles

SOUTH AFRICA

Nikkei Cape Town

Molori Mashuma , Mana Pools National Park

Pemako Punakha

Regent Hong Kong

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Naar , Darwa

Papa's , Mumbai

Cap Karoso , Sumba

Further , Bali

Locavore NXT Bali

Le Pristine Tokyo

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park , Tokyo

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection , Jomsom

SOUTH KOREA

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Pot Au Phở , Ho Chi Minh

Le Foote , Sydney

Southern Ocean Lodge , Kangaroo Island

Sun Ranch , Byron Bay

MIDDLE EAST

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

SAUDI ARABIA

Six Senses Southern Dunes , Umluj

The St. Regis Riyadh

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Guild , Dubai

SIRO One Za'abeel, Dubai

Soul Kitchen , Dubai

The Lana, Dorchester Collection , Dubai

Koan , Copenhagen

Hotel Maria , Helsinki

1 Place Vendôme , Paris

The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel , Cannes

Datil , Paris

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin , Paris

La Nauve Hôtel & Jardin , Cognac

Rosewood Munich

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

Monument , Athens

One&Only Aesthesis , Athens

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

Bulgari Hotel Roma , Rome

Trattoria del Ciumbia , Milan

Hotel La Palma , Capri

La Roqqa , Porto Ercole

Nolinski Venezia , Venice

Palazzo Roma , Rome

Saporium , Florence

Hotel Violino d’Oro , Venice

Mamula Island

NETHERLANDS

De Durgerdam , Amsterdam

Canalha , Lisbon

Andreu Genestra , Mallorca

Barro , Ávila

César Lanzarote , Lanzarote

Hotel Corazón , Mallorca

Grand Hotel Son Net , Mallorca

Palacio Arriluce , Getxo

Son Vell Menorca , Menorca

The Peninsula Istanbul

UNITED KINGDOM

Broadwick Soho , London

Chishuru , London

The Devonshire , London

Chelsea Townhouse, London

Estelle Manor , Cotswolds

Fish Shop , Ballater

Raffles London at The OWO

Colima 71 , Mexico City

Maizajo Mexico City

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya EDITION

The St. Regis Kanai Resort , Riviera Maya

SOUTH AMERICA

Casa Lucía , Buenos Aires

Trescha , Buenos Aires

Oseille , Rio de Janiero

99 Restaurante, Santiago

Our Habitas Atacama , San Pedro de Atacama

Puqio , Arequipa

THE CARIBBEAN

Silversands Beach House

UNITED STATES

The Celestine , New Orleans

Dawn Ranch , Sonoma, California

The Fifth Avenue Hotel , New York

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The Georgian , Santa Monica, California

The Global Ambassador , Phoenix

Hotel Bardo, Savannah

Ilis , New York

Kiln , San Francisco

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , Kona, Hawaii

Maty's , Miami

Warren Street Hotel , New York

Yess , Los Angeles

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

CRUISE SHIPS

Silver Nova , Silversea

Norwegian Viva

Seven Seas Grandeur , Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

Oceania Vista

World Voyager , Atlas Ocean Voyages

Scenic Eclipse II

Emerald Sakara

Celebrity Ascent

Seabourn Pursuit

Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean

MSC Euribia

Viking Aton

Resilient Lady , Virgin Voyages

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler's Hot List issue. Never miss an issue when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler.

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Why adventure cruising on a small ship is the best way to see Australia’s Kimberley region

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Diversity Charters at King George Falls. Photo / Diversity Charters

Small-group adventurer cruises are becoming increasingly popular in the Kimberley’s Broome region because they’re a unique way to experience this remote part of Australia, writes Linda Hanan

Western Australia’s Kimberley coast is famous for its dramatic landscapes and having an abundance of water, and there’s no better way to experience the region than on a cruise. Smaller-vessel adventure-style cruises are becoming increasingly popular as they’re a unique way to experience this remote part of the country. If you’ve been thinking about taking the plunge to discover more about this iconic destination across the water, here’s why you should consider adventure cruising on a smaller vessel.

Small numbers are a highlight of a small cruise

Small group numbers are a highlight of these cruises, with vessels taking between 12 and 36 passengers (depending on the cruise operator). Numbers like these provide a good indication that there’s going to be no crowds to beat while you’re on board or during excursions. Think of it as a more intimate and casual style of cruising compared to being on the more typical larger-style ships. Getting to know fellow passengers and crew quickly is another advantage of travelling with a smaller group, and the interaction between passengers and crew can be likened to travelling with good friends.

READ MORE: Australia’s Kimberley coast: One of the world’s great wildernesses

Small ships get you to places that larger ships can’t

Kimberley’s staggering 12-metre tides are the second largest in the world, so it’s an area where smaller vessels have a big advantage. These vessels get you where the larger ships can’t as they’re able to cruise rivers and tributaries closer to the mainland. That’s a mighty benefit when you can be surrounded by dramatic scenery while up close and personal with towering ancient cliffs as the vessel glides along secluded rivers. You’ll likely have more time on excursions as well, as you don’t need to be transported for long distances by tenders, which can often be the case with larger ships.

Cruising times and itineraries

The cruising season is brief, running for six months between mid-March and late August to coincide with dry season timing in Australia’s north . If you’re crunched for time, cruises start at six days, although 8-14 days are more popular. The shorter cruises lasting 6-9 days leave from the laid-back resort town of Broome in the Kimberley’s west, or one of the region’s major rivers to the area’s north. These cruises take in some of the region’s highlights and may include a breathtaking light-aircraft flight to experience the Kimberley from the air. The longer 14-day cruises depart from Darwin, Wyndham/Kununurra and Broome (or vice versa). Often referred to as an “ultimate” cruise, the itineraries between Broome and Wyndham/Kununurra (or vice versa) are the best option if you’re looking to spend the maximum possible time on Kimberley waters. Each cruise operator has their own set itinerary, but it’s not uncommon for skippers to change course or have spontaneous stops to get passengers closer to the action.

Adventures everyday

Adventure is the name of the game and cruises of this calibre have it in spades. Unlike a larger ship’s sheer size that prevents it getting close to the mainland, you’re well placed in the thick of things and get right up close on a smaller vessel. And while you can choose your own daily adventures, it’s possible to be off the vessel up to three times a day for a variety of experiences the region is renowned for. Activities include daily visits to gorgeous refreshing waterfalls and swimming in picture-perfect waterholes that very few ever get to witness and are a delight for the senses. While bushwalking to remote historical WWII wrecks or visiting unique 40,000-year-old indigenous art sites that are only accessible by water - guaranteeing they’re visited by very few.

If fishing is your thing, you’ll be completely in your element when cruising the Kimberley coast. This is one of the most popular activities all over Kimberley as the region teems with a vast array of aquatic life. Have you ever wanted to catch a barramundi? These elusive fish are prized all over Australia’s north and grow to more than a metre, with most small vessels having their own secret fishing spots they share with passengers. Your chances really don’t get much better while fishing in the region’s coastal rivers, and you’re well and truly in the box seat to fulfil that dream. And whether you’re a keen fisherman or simply happy to dangle a line, you don’t need to supply anything as all the fishing gear is included. Although the aquatic action doesn’t stop there; seafood doesn’t get much fresher when cruise activities include feasting on cooked mud crabs collected from mangroves and succulent oysters prised off rocks from a secluded island.

Experience the ship’s every luxury by night

After a day of adventure and activities, luxury awaits you back on deck. As the sun begins to dip, being up front on the bow is the place to be. An intimate setting of chatting to new friends with a drink in hand while watching a spectacular Kimberley sunset is something to behold. While passengers are taking in the last of the daylight, the onboard chef prepares gourmet meals (including the delicious seafood caught during the cruise), with meals cooked to an individual’s liking.

And while you may be cruising on a smaller vessel, that certainly doesn’t mean you’re cramped for space. With fewer passengers onboard, there’s plenty of room to relax and retreat in the lounge, on the bow and other deck areas, or from the comfort of your cabin. You can also expect itineraries to be carefully curated, ensuring passengers soak up as much of the dramatic Kimberley coastal and tributary landscape during daylight hours. At times, skippers take advantage of steaming through the night, with passengers waking up so close to towering ancient rich-red sandstone cliffs you feel you could reach out and touch them.

With a growing focus on the environment and sustainable travel practices, the popularity of cruising on these types of vessels will only continue. Choosing the right adventure cruise really comes down to how long you’d like to cruise for, what you’d most like to see and experience, and when you can travel. With all the benefits of small-vessel adventure cruising along with their points of difference, book well in advance to secure your preferences as cruises sell out quickly.

KIMBERLEY, AUSTRALIA

The most direct route for Kiwis to get to Darwin is via Brisbane or Sydney with Air New Zealand, Qantas, and Virgin Australia . Air North and Nexus Airlines offer connecting flights to Broome. Connecting flights are also available to Kununurra where cruise passengers are transferred to Wyndham.

westernaustralia.com/nz/home

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Virgin Voyages to Announce Plans for Brilliant Lady

• April 29, 2024

Virgin Voyages is preparing to announce plans for its forthcoming ship, the Brilliant Lady. The 2,770-guest vessel was delivered to the company earlier this year but has remained out of service in Europe.

Now, Virgin appears ready to disclose more details about Brilliant’s inaugural season and future deployment.

In its social media profiles and main website, the company recently published teaser videos that promise “something brilliant coming.”

Virgin Voyages said that the announcement will include “epic news,” as well as new ports. The video also shows silhouettes of destinations landmarks across North America, including Seattle’s Space Needle, Los Angeles’ Hollywood Sign and New York City’s Statue of Liberty.

The news will be unveiled on May 1, 2024, during a live transmission on Virgin Voyages’ website.

Built by the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy, the Brilliant Lady is the fourth vessel in the company’s Lady Ship series.

Initially scheduled to debut in late 2023, the 140,000-ton cruise ship had its inaugural season canceled in September .

At the time, the company stated that unexpected construction, supply chain and staffing challenges led to the decision.

“We want to make sure that when the ship launches, we can deliver the standards our Sailors have come to expect from an award-winning brand like Virgin Voyages,” the company added.

A new launch date was not immediately determined, and the vessel has remained out of service in Italy since its delivery.

With three ships currently in service, Virgin Voyages offers year-round itineraries in the Caribbean and seasonal programs in the Mediterranean.

After cancelling its upcoming winter season in Australia, the company also revealed plans to return to Northern Europe in August with a series of cruises departing from the United Kingdom onboard the Resilient Lady.

The company offers an adults-only product designed to provide “the intimate and elevated experience of a boutique hotel at sea.”

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TIMELESS BEAUTY OF THE PAST

European cruises.

Jump on a satisfying study in contrasts, from the black Baltic to the azure Aegean, and from medieval castles to modern skyscrapers with a cruise to Europe.

As you Cruise to Europe, peer over the side of your ship as it approaches the weathered spires of old-town Copenhagen, the sun-bleached houses of Santorini, the colourful cliffs of the Mediterranean or the Celtic cliffs of the British Isles. Dive into Croatia's waterfalls and France's famous rivers and let the eclecticism of Europe delight you again and again. Culinary excellence also awaits, from familiar favourites like Italian pasta and Spanish tapas, to lesser-known cuisines from Amsterdam to Zagreb. Discover the magic with a Europe cruise.

Save Big with these European Cruise Deals

Explore more while spending less with Europe cruise deals onboard our best cruise ships

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SUN, SPICE AND SEA BREEZES

It's no coincidence that many of the best European cruises call in the most beautiful ports in the world. Eat your way through the cobbled streets of Italy, contrast the timeless beauty of Greece's ruins with the modern chic that's come to define its islands or hike through forlorn caverns and up lush waterfalls in captivating Croatia.

DISCOVER LA DOLCE VITA

From the storied streets of Rome to the charming canals of Venice, Italy is a country that needs no introduction. Whether you pose with Michelangelo's David in Florence or indulge in to-die-for Pizza in Naples, it's no wonder why so many cruises to Europe visit la bella Italia.

FROM THE ACROPOLIS TO THE AEGEAN

Greece is remarkable, from the ancient Acropolis of Athens to the blue-roofed houses of Santorini. Whether you trek through the limestone hills in the north or swim through the cobalt waters around the Cyclades, it's easy to see why this is one of the best places to visit in Europe.

'GAMES OF THRONES' Lives On

The hit TV show might be finished, but 'Game of Thrones' fans will recognise dozens of locations in the walled city of Dubrovnik , the jewel of Croatia's Adriatic coast. Further afield, explore the countless waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park or pair European cruises with tastings at underrated wineries.

SCENES THAT INSPIRED 1,000 PAINTINGS

Endless possibilities are what the coasts of France, Spain and Portugal have always been about. Generations of iconic painters from Van Gogh to Picasso have found inspiration from the crystalline coasts of the French Riviera to the craggy mountaintops of the Canary Islands. Of course, the best European cruises also dock in timeless cities like Barcelona, Cherbourg, Lisbon and beyond.  

CITY OF LOVE, CÔTE D'AZUR

The only thing better than strolling into Paris as the Eiffel Tower lights up at night? Sitting down for a meal of freshly caught seafood as the sun sets over the harbour of aptly named Nice. France has got something for every traveller, which is why so many cruises to Europe dock here.

SAY 'SALUD' TO SPAIN

Sitting down for Spanish tapas is one of the most satisfying food experiences in the world, especially when you wash it down with fruity sangria. Plus, the Jurassic topography of the Canary Islands and the storied streets of Barcelona are just a few of the best places to visit in Europe you'll find here.

KING OF DISCOVERY

Portugal is where many of the first expeditions to the New World start, but most people on European cruises bound for Lisbon wonder why anyone would leave. Explore the mysterious Quinta de Regaleira castle in Sintra, pour port wine in Porto or practise your surfing skills in the Algarve.

Best European Cruises

A cruise to Europe is filled with exciting destinations, each with its own style and vibe. Discover Europe onboard the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships.

SPAIN, PORTUGAL & THE CANARY ISLANDS

EXPLORE MORE

BALTIC SEA & SCANDINAVIA

BRITISH ISLES & SOUTHAMPTON

MEDITERRANEAN ITALY & GREEK ISLES

OLD-WORLD WARMTH ALONG A BREEZY COAST

You can feel warmth in your heart no matter the temperature outside, and the northwestern reaches of Europe illustrate this beautifully. Join the best European cruises through the British Isles and along the coast of the Netherlands, where enchanted country charm and royal, old-world cities offer endless possibilities for memories that will last a lifetime.  

THE JOY OF GOING DUTCH

The Dutch have managed to keep the sea at bay for hundreds of years, but many of the best European cruises still make their way into Amsterdam . If you tire of the tranquility you find amid tulip fields and beneath towering windmills, make your way to the hipster capital of Rotterdam.

ETERNAL LANDSCAPES ON THE EMERALD ISLE

Life is but a dream in Ireland , whether you down a pint of Guinness and trace tales told by James Joyce in Dublin, or careen along the Cliffs of Moher along the west coast. Many cruises to Europe also stop in Northern Ireland's Belfast, a city that's a testament to rebirth and reconciliation.

STEP INTO A SCOTTISH FAIRYTALE

When you visit Scotland, it can be difficult to discern legend from real life. Strolling down Edinburgh's Royal Mile to Edinburgh Castle might feel like a dream, while the fabled and mythical Loch Ness may surprise you with its charm and stunning scenery. Scotland's one of the best places to visit in Europe, without a doubt.

WINTER AURORA, SUMMER SUN

Scandinavia  is dark for much of the year, but light is what defines its polar nations, from the Midnight Sun that rises high above Demark in mid-summer, to the aurora that dances above Norway and Iceland amid winter's deepest freeze. Find endless possibilities and the best European cruises along the Baltic, from the savoury seafood eateries of Oslo, to the cold cityscape of Reykjavik.  

SCANDINAVIA'S UNSUNG SISTER

Many of the best European cruises dock in Denmark, and it's no wonder why. From colourful Nyhavn harbour in Copenhagen to storied castles like Amalienborg and Frederiksborg, Denmark more than makes up for the fact that its more famous neighbours often eclipse it.

LAND OF FIRE AND ICE

It's easy to be intrigued by Iceland , whether you walk through Reykjavik's riveting Hallgrimskirkja church, or watch the northern lights dance over Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls. Plus, there are few better ways to cap off cruises to Europe than a dip in the aptly named Blue Lagoon.

PRICELESS PANORAMAS, FABULOUS FJORDS

Norway is a country in beautiful balance. Had enough of the orderliness of Oslo? Head west to beautiful Bergen, where finger-shaped fjords jut into and out of thousands of miles of coastline. Or contrast a fresh fish dinner at sea level with a view from the towering Trolltunga cliff.

Europe is beautiful in every season, but the peak of comfortable weather (especially in the north) is between May and September.

You should always be prepared for rain and colder weather when you travel to Europe, especially in the North. Dress in light layers for your holiday.

Europeans speak more English the further north you go. Your phone's translation app (or, at minimum, learning how to say 'Hello' and 'Thank You' in local languages) will aid you along the Mediterranean.

RELATED PORTS

Learn more about Baltic ports like Klaipeda, Lithuania and Tallinn, Estonia, or read up on Bergen, the gateway to Norway's stunning fjords. The Mediterranean provides many options but start by exploring Malaga on Spain's Costa del Sol or the exciting Monte Carlo, Monaco. The most popular ports in the British Isles are Edinburgh in Scotland and the cities of Belfast and Dublin in Ireland. No matter what you like, you will find your favourite European cruise.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Barcelona, Spain

Copenhagen, Denmark

Seville (Cadiz), Spain

Venice, Italy

Argostoli, Greece

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Mykonos, Greece

Santorini, Greece

Bologna (Ravenna), Italy

Zadar, Croatia

Bergen, Norway

Aarhus, Denmark

Ajaccio, Corsica

Alesund, Norway

Amalfi Coast (Salerno), Italy

Arctic Circle (Cruising), Norway

Belfast, Northern Ireland

Berlin (Rostock), Germany

Berlin (Warnemunde), Germany

Bilbao, Spain

Brest, France

Bruges/Zeebruge (Brussels), Belgium

Cannes, France

Chania (Souda), Crete

Cork (Cobh), Ireland

Flam, Norway

Fredericia, Denmark

Geiranger, Norway

Gibraltar, United Kingdom

Gijon, Spain

Hamburg, Germany

Holyhead, Wales

Honningsvag, Norway

Olympia (Katakolon), Greece

Klaipeda, Lithuania

Lisbon, Portugal

Reykjavik, Iceland

Sardinia (Cagliari), Italy

Agadir, Morocco

Alicante, Spain

Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Cartagena, Spain

Cherbourg, France

Dover, England

Dublin, Ireland

Edinburgh (S. Queensferry), Scotland

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey

Gdansk (Gdynia), Poland

Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Helsinki, Finland

Ibiza, Spain

Inverness / Loch Ness, Scotland

Kotor, Montenegro

Kristiansand, Norway

La Palma, Canary Islands

Lerwick / Shetland, Scotland

Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

Molde, Norway

Nice, France

Olden, Norway

Oslo, Norway

Paris (Le Havre), France

Rhodes, Greece

Riga, Latvia

Rotterdam, Netherlands

Sete, France

Sicily (Messina), Italy

Sicily (Catania), Italy

Edinburgh (Newhaven), Scotland

Genoa, Italy

La Coruna, Spain

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Ponta Delgada, Azores

Sicily (Palermo), Italy

Skjolden, Norway

Southampton, England

St. Peter Port, Guernsey

Stockholm, Sweden

Tallinn, Estonia

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Valletta, Malta

Vigo, Spain

Palma De Mallorca, Spain

Provence (Marseille), France

Skagen, Denmark

Tromso, Norway

Visby, Sweden

Waterford (Dunmore East), Ireland

Stavanger, Norway

Málaga, Spain

Provence (Toulon), France

Valencia, Spain

Florence / Pisa (La Spezia), Italy

Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy

Naples / Capri, Italy

Bremerhaven, Germany

Split, Croatia

Corfu, Greece

Limassol, Cyprus

Porto (Leixoes), Portugal

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Portofino, Italy

Koper, Slovenia

Liverpool, England

Cadiz, Spain

Bordeaux (La Rochelle), France

Istanbul, Turkey

Florence / Pisa (Carrara), Italy

Zakynthos, Greece

Thessaloniki, Greece

Portland, Dorset, England

Skiathos, Greece

Maloy, Norway

Haugesund, Norway

Kotka, Finland

Kiel, Germany

Bodrum, Turkey

Burgas, Bulgaria

Casablanca, Morocco

Chios, Greece

Santa Margherita, Italy

Bay of Kotor (Cruising), Montenegro

Constanta, Romania

Sinop, Turkey

Varna, Bulgaria

Trieste, Italy

Trabzon, Turkey

Ravenna, Italy

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Top 5 rail trips to pair with a cruise for incredible experiences around Australia, Europe, Canada and more - full list

Boarding a train is one of the most traditional ways of travel but there is much more to it than getting from A to B.

It can offer a small piece of nostalgia while relaxing with five-star service and seeing some of the most breathtaking places in the world. Discover incredible routes on board The Ghan , Rocky Mountaineer , Indian Pacific , Himalayan Queen and Venice Simplon-Orient-Express .

Pairing a rail trip with a cruise can be the recipe for a truly unique holiday.

Like rail, cruising is an exciting way to travel where the journey becomes as much part of the experience as the destination.

Here are the five best rail journeys to pair with a cruise, according to Imagine Cruising.

The Ghan is a legendary train that has run for 95 years and ventures through some of the most beautiful parts of Australia.

It offers all-inclusive service while guests take in the vast landscapes of the Australian Outback.

The Ghan Rail & Luxury All-Inclusive Voyage gives Britons a once-in-a-lifetime experience while they travel from Australia to Singapore.

Holidaymakers can sip on wine in Adelaide before journeying on the Ghan to Darwin, where they will spend three nights and indulge in a sunset dinner cruise.

During the two-day train journey, enjoy off-train experiences including a cruise of the Nitmiluk Gorge, a chance to see the Simpsons Gap and the opportunity to set your eyes on the Milky Way.

Up next, it's time to fly to Sydney where you’ll enjoy a five-night before the cruise part of the journey begins.

Embark Celebrity Solstice® and soak in Australia's east coast while enjoying a luxurious 15-night cruise, including an overnight stop in port in Bali.

Guests will then arrive in Singapore where they can relax during a two-night stay.

As well as sampling all the fine wine and dining available on both the train and ship, there are plenty of included excursions to look forward to.

The cruise and rail voyage runs for 31 nights, departing on October 5, 2024. Prices start from £7,499pp and it includes all flights and transfers with drinks, wi-fi and tours.

Rocky Mountaineer

Step on board the Rocky Mountaineer for a scenic train journey through Canada.

Experience the continent during an incredible train journey from Vancouver to Calgary. Explore the history of the country and take in the breathtaking natural landscapes.

The All-Inclusive Silversea Alaskan Voyage, Rocky Mountaineer & Calgary Stampede pairs the unmissable rail journey with a seven-night cruise of Alaska.

Kicking off with a one-night stay in Anchorage, holidaymakers will then board Silver Nova for the cruise, passing views of Hubbard Glacier, Juneau, and Haines.

Next, travellers can relax with a night in Vancouver before stepping on the Rocky Mountaineer for the unforgettable rail journey that promises to treat guests to a "VIP experience from start to finish".

Hosts will talk you through the highlights of the tour, as well as storytelling and wildlife spotting.

The cruise and rail voyage runs for 15 nights, departing on June 24, 2025. The cruise and rail journey starts from £8,499pp and is exclusive to Imagine Cruising.

Indian Pacific

Holidaymakers will explore Australia and New Zealand during the 27-night holiday.

Enjoy a magnificent all-inclusive service on board the Indian Pacific travelling from Perth to Sydney during a four-night journey.

As well as taking in the views from the train, Britons can immerse themselves in the beautiful landscapes as they step off board in the Kalgoorlie, the Barossa Valley, and the Blue Mountains.

During the All-Inclusive Silversea New Zealand Voyage & Indian Pacific Rail Journey , Britons will spend a night in Perth before boarding the train.

Once in Sydney, you’ll embark Silver Muse for a 14-night cruise to Auckland.

This includes stops in Geelong, Tasmania, Hobart, and Port Arthur, among other destinations, with complimentary premium shore excursions available at every port.

Complete the break with even more luxury and enjoy a two-night stay in a five-star hotel in Auckland.

The cruise and rail voyage runs for 27 nights, departing on January 9, 2025. The cruise and rail journey starts from £9,999pp.

Himalayan Queen

The Himalayan Queen helps guests to immerse themselves in the vibrancy of India.

Journey to the Himalayan foothills, take part in an exhilarating jungle safari and bask in one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal as part of the Golden Triangle tour.

The All-Inclusive Celebrity Voyage & Ultimate India Experience offers a Tigers, The Himalayas & Golden Triangle Tour and more during a 27- to 29-day stay.

Take the Shatabdi Express to Kalka and then board the Himalayan Queen for a journey from Kalka to Shimla.

Enjoy a cruise with the Celebrity Millennium® where you get the chance to see Goa, Colombo in Sri Lanka and the wildlife in Hambantota. Other destinations include picturesque Phuket, Penang and Kuala Lumpur.

Holidaymakers will get to experience opulence on and off their modes of travel, with several five-star hotels included in the price.

The cruise and rail voyage runs for 27-29 nights, departing on dates between November 2024 and February 2025. The cruise and rail journey starts from £3,699pp based on a November 24, 2024 departure and includes a classic drinks package and wi-fi.

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Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

Mediterranean cruises are a popular holiday option for seeing the continent in style.

There are also some fantastic rail journeys to be had along the way.

Travel on the luxurious Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Verona to Paris with waterside views of the continent.

Holidaymakers will be treated to dedicated steward service, three course lunches and four course dinners, as well as a full porterage service.

The Luxury Cunard Mediterranean Cruise, Lake Garda & All-Inclusive Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers a remarkable voyage to beautiful parts of Europe.

Explore the Mediterranean on board the Cunard’s Queen Victoria, a sleek and luxurious ship with gourmet dining and spacious cabins.

Visit lively Barcelona, historical Florence and celebrity-studded Lake Garda.

As well as taking part in a winery tour and tasting before boarding the train to Paris.

The package also includes a standard Premier Class Eurostar train journey from Paris to London.

The cruise and rail voyage runs for 13 nights, departing on June 16, 2025.

The cruise and rail journey starts from £5,499pp including outbound flight and transfers, with a complimentary Oceanview to Balcony cabin upgrade on board Queen Victoria. You won’t find this holiday anywhere else as it’s exclusive to Imagine Cruising.

Unforgettable adventures to Australia, New Zealand, Christmas Markets

by FRESH LIVING

KUTV — Are you ready to set sail on the journey of a lifetime? Larry Gelwix, renowned travel expert with Morris Columbus Travel, invites you to join him on two incredible adventures that promise to create memories to last a lifetime.

2025 Australia & New Zealand Cruise with Larry Gelwix

Set sail on the luxurious Royal Princess from February 15-28, 2025, for an unforgettable cruise through Australia and New Zealand. Discover the breathtaking beauty of these two stunning destinations as you explore picturesque ports, pristine beaches, and vibrant cities.

2024 Christmas Markets on the Danube with Larry Gelwix

Experience the magic of the holiday season like never before on the 2024 Christmas Markets on the Danube cruise. From December 4-11, 2024, journey along the legendary Danube River aboard a luxurious river cruise ship. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as you visit the largest and most iconic Christmas markets in Europe.

Why Travel with Larry Gelwix?

As a seasoned traveler and expert guide, Larry Gelwix brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every journey. With his passion for exploration and dedication to providing exceptional service, Larry ensures that each trip is tailored to exceed your expectations. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first adventure, Larry's expertise and enthusiasm will ensure that your experience is truly unforgettable.

For more information visit morriscolumbus.com

Follow Fresh Living on social media, subscribe to our newsletter , and check out our podcast for more

Watch Fresh Living every weekday at 1 pm MST on CBS Channel 2, 2 pm on KMYU, and 3 pm on KJZZ

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

European beach beats Hawaii and Caribbean to be crowned best in the world

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The best beach in the world has been crowned by Tripadvisor – and it’s under three hours away from London .

Praia da Falésia in the Algarve , Portugal has finished in first place at the Travellers’ Choice Awards 2024, ahead of stunning locations in the Caribbean, Australia and the Seychelles. 

In fact the top three are all in Europe, with Spiaggia dei Conigli in Sicily and La Concha Beach in Spain taking second and third respectively. The highest Caribbean entry was Grace Bay Beach in Turks and Caicos which came in at number five.

Though the UK failed to make the top 10 overall, we did win an award for having the most sustainable beach in the world. Sandbanks Beach in Poole, Dorset, got a special mention from the judges for its commitments to sustainability, including eco-friendly transport options, waste disposal and water quality.

The popular travel guidance platform analysed ‘tens of millions’ of reviews submitted by travellers over the past 12 months, looking particularly at the quality and quantity of ratings for beach experiences. 

Portugal’s Praia da Falésia is known for its dramatic red, sandy cliffs and golden sand. Reviewers who have been lucky enough to visit loved walking along the soft, powdery sand while admiring the views of the Atlantic Ocean.  

There are thousands of gushing reviews for the beach. A Tripadvisor user known as Waddler said of the location: ‘It reminded me of some remote beaches I’d been to in Western Australia, but here it has resorts around so is much more easily accessed.’

Another visitor, @grillo84BS, wrote about the walk they enjoyed from the beach Praia Maria Luisa towards Vilamoura, with Praia da Falésia being located in between both. ‘The colours of the cliffs are spectacular and you almost don’t realise how many kilometres you have travelled,’ they said about the award winning beach. ‘Highly recommended for those who love these scenarios.’

Meanwhile, @GlobetrottingViking said: ‘The red-coloured cliffs were magnificent and it was amusing to see the playful birds, like Ruddy Turnstones, Yellow-legged Gulls and a solitary Kestrel along the beach.’ 

Although the beach is often showered with praise, one criticism from reviewers is that it isn’t the most accessible place for those with mobility issues. Tripadvisor user @Steve_of_N21 commented: ‘Both the entry points at the Albufeira Surf Adventure and the Algarve Gardens Sports Resort involve steps, especially at the surf adventure where the wooden staircase down to the beach is an impressive piece of mechanical engineering.

‘Also Praia da Falésia is not blessed with facilities, with the Strandbar Alfamar at the Garden Sports entrance being about it.’

Top 10 beaches in the world for 2024

• Praia da Falésia- Algarve, Portugal
• Spiaggia dei Conigli – Sicily, Italy
• La Concha Beach, Basque Country, Spain
• Ka’anapali Beach – Maui, Hawaii
• Grace Bay Beach – Turks and Caicos, Caribbean
• Anse Lazio, Seychelles
• Manly Beach, New South Wales, Australia
• Eagle Beach- Aruba, Caribbean
• Siesta Beach, Florida, US
• Varadero Beach – Cuba, Caribbean

How much do flights from England to Faro cost?

The nearest airport to Praia da Falésia is Faro, which is a 40-minute drive away by car. Comboios De Portugal runs a train service from Estação Ferroviária de Lisboa Oriente (a major public transport stop) between Albufeira and Ferreiras five times a day. Tickets are typically priced between £14-£20 and the journey takes two hours and 36 minutes according to Rome2Rio. 

You can currently book a plane ticket from London Luton Airport to Faro for £58 with Ryanair. 

Other airlines that fly direct to Faro include Jet2, easyJet and British Airways, with flights priced between £108-£151. The non-stop flights usually last for around two hours and 50-55 minutes.

What is the weather like in the Algarve and when should you visit?

The Algarve is a top choice among travellers seeking warmth and sun even during the winter months. The Olhos de Agua region, where you’ll find Praia da Falésia has a Mediterranean climate, with long hot summers and relatively short winters. 

For the most heat, the best time to visit is between June and August. The hottest month of the year is July, which has an average high of 30°C and an average low of 22°c°. 

February is the coldest month of the year, but you would still be able to wear a t-shirt outdoors. During the second month of the year, the average high is 16°C and an average low of 10°C.

What are the top things to do and where should you stay at Praia da Falésia?

The beach is also listed number one for things to do in the Olhos de Agua region on Tripadvisor, however that doesn’t mean you have to spend the entire trip sunbathing (even though that does sound ideal). 

For a shopping spree, visit Albufeira’s old town – Avenida Dr Francisco Sa Carneiro – for souvenirs and clothes. You can also find an open-air mall with the easy to remember name Algarve Shopping, where you can buy anything from pottery to a new outfit, as well as local bars and restaurants, like Planet Fusion, The Three Harps and Symbiosis.

For tapas and booze, you can head to Fabio’s RoadStop, Platinum and Metrópole.

But let’s face it, the beach is an attraction itself and visitors can actually walk or hike from Praia Maria Luisa towards Vilamoura and pass through Praia da Falésia. 

The west side of the award-winning beach is where you’ll find the high red cliffs. This part is also referred to as Açoteias and a highly rated hotel in this era is the Epic Sana Algarve Beach Hotel.

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The east side of Praia da Falésia, towards Vilamoura, is referred to as Alfamar because of the nearby Alfamar Beach & Sport Resort. The lower parts of the cliffs can be found here, along with shallow waters where activities like paragliding, diving and surfing take place. 

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