If the 2023–2024 cruise boom was any indication, Aussies are well and truly back on the high seas; – and we’re looking ahead to 2026, while we’re also setting our sights further than ever. At Cruise Guru, we’ve been tracking thousands of bookings and browsing trends, and the results are in: these are the five hottest international cruise destinations Australians are lining up for in 2026. Whether you’re dreaming of island-hopping or cultural immersion, this list is your permission slip to start planning.

 

Southeast Asia  

If you’re looking for a cruise that’s rich in flavour, culture, and natural beauty Asia cruises are calling, specifically Southeast Asia with cruises from Singapore dominating much of the bookings. Australians are increasingly drawn to the magic of this region, and it’s easy to see why. 

Whether it’s wandering through the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, kayaking past limestone cliffs in Ha Long Bay, temple-hopping in Thailand or soaking up the island life in Indonesia, Southeast Asia delivers immersive moments at every port. 

Cruises through the region offer the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. And with lines like Disney, MSC, NCL and Royal Caribbean offering deeper itineraries and culturally curated shore excursions, there are plenty of choices on offer for family cruises, adult-only cruises and more.  

For 2026, Southeast Asia is where value, immersion and excitement meet.  

 

Japan 

Cruising in Japan is no longer a niche idea; it’s a full-blown trend. In 2024, there was a 56.9% increase in Australians visiting Japan and we are seeing an increase in enquiries for cruising to this region as a more seamless (and luggage-friendly!) way to explore this culturally rich country. 

From futuristic Tokyo to ancient Kyoto and the coastal charm of Hiroshima and Kanazawa, Japan cruises are ticking all the boxes.  

Better still? Lines like Princess, Celebrity, and Holland America are tailoring onboard experiences to immerse you in the food, traditions and seasonal magic, especially during cherry blossom season. 

 

 

Mediterranean (including Greece)  

Aussies can’t get enough of sun-drenched Santorini, Aperol-sipping in Amalfi and the backdrop of Rome’s cobbled streets. But what’s hot for 2026 is not just the usual ports; it’s the Mediterranean cruise itineraries that go deeper. 

Cruise Guru customers are leaning into Greek island cruise explorations, Croatia’s Adriatic coast and stops like Kotor, Montenegro. Add in fresh new ships from lines like Virgin Voyages, MSC, NCL and Royal Caribbean, and you’ve got a floating European summer dream. 

 

Alaska 

Alaska might feel like a world away, but for Australians planning a big trip, it’s the ultimate wilderness cruise. 2026 Alaska cruises are being snapped up by travellers ready for glaciers, grizzlies, and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife sightings. 

But it’s not just the destination—it’s the ships. Aussies are loving smaller vessels and expedition-style cruises that get you closer to nature, plus balcony cabins for unobstructed glacier views. Combine this with a land tour to go deeper into Alaska or through the Canadian Rockies , and you’ve got a spectacular itinerary. 

 

Northern Europe  

Cooler climates are heating up and Northern Europe cruises may be far from traditional cruise routes, but their raw beauty and bucket-list appeal are attracting a growing number of adventurous Aussie cruisers.  

Imagine sailing through iceberg-dotted fjords, witnessing the northern lights from your balcony or stepping onto land that feels truly untouched.  

In Iceland, volcanic landscapes meet Viking history and natural hot springs, while Greenland offers an extraordinary window into Inuit culture and remote arctic life. 

Cruise Guru travellers are increasingly opting for these off-the-grid adventures, especially on small-ship and expedition-style cruises with lines like Seabourn, Ponant, and Viking.  

It’s luxury meets polar exploration; and it’s poised to be one of the biggest surprises of 2026. 

Final Boarding Call 

What do all these destinations have in common? They offer the kind of immersive, memorable experiences that travellers are craving; and cruises provide the perfect blend of adventure and ease. 

If you’ve been toying with the idea of cruising in 2026, now’s the time to lock it in early, especially with Cruise Guru’s flexible payment plans, price guarantee and exclusive cruise-only deals that allow you to  

After all, the world is waiting—and it’s best seen from the water. 

Ready to plan your next escape? Browse Cruise Guru and set sail for 2026’s most unforgettable destinations.