Adelaide is often overlooked by tourists but spend some time in the South Australian capital and you’ll soon discover it’s sophisticated, cultured and a delight to explore. A handful of cruise lines are also basing ships in the city, with itineraries sailing around South Australia and the east coast of Australia or further afield into New Zealand.
It’s known as the City of Churches, so take some time as you walk the wide streets to admire the historic churches and grand cathedrals that seem to dot every corner. It’s also fast becoming famous for its small bars, exceptional restaurants, vibrant festivals and thriving arts scene. Catch a tram to the beach at Glenelg, kayak on the River Torrens or rub shoulders with the locals at the busy Adelaide Central Market. Adelaide is close to the famed vineyards of the Adelaide Hills and the Barossa, so you can sample some of the region’s legendary shiraz before set sail.
The Port Adelaide Passenger Terminal is at Outer Harbor, a 10-minute drive from the centre of the city and around half an hour from Adelaide Airport. You can also catch a train to Outer Harbor Railway Station and cross the short tunnel that connects it to the cruise terminal.
- Which destinations can I visit on cruises from Adelaide?
Cruises from Adelaide sail to destinations in Australia and internationally. Popular itineraries sail to Kangaroo Island, Tasmania, Melbourne and Sydney. Some cruises sail from Adelaide to New Zealand, visiting Fiordland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington and Auckland. A few circumnavigation cruises also begin here, sailing in a loop around the Australian coast.
- How long typically are cruises leaving from Adelaide?
No matter how long your holiday, there’s an Adelaide cruise for you. Short cruises lasting just two or three days will take you on a loop to one or two ports. Longer cruises can last from one week up to more than three weeks, taking you around the Australian coast or into New Zealand and the South Pacific.
- Are there cruises from Adelaide suitable for families?
Absolutely! Large cruise ships have lots of fun things onboard to keep the whole family entertained. This can include swimming pools, waterslides, sports courts, video game arcades and special family-friendly entertainment. P&O’s Pacific Explorer regularly sails from Adelaide and has all this plus the P&O Edge Outdoor Adventure Park, with rock climbing, a flying fox and the thrilling Walk the Plank.
- What facilities can I expect on cruises departing from Adelaide?
You’ll never be bored on one of the large, modern cruise ships that depart regularly from Adelaide. Onboard you’ll find facilities like swimming pools, waterslides and waterparks, sports courts, fancy wellness facilities, gyms and more. There are also multiple restaurants, ranging from casual to fine dining, bars and cafes, as well as live entertainment every night.
- Can I book luxury cruises from Adelaide?
There are fewer luxury options from Adelaide, but you can still find s few high-end cruise ships departing from the city. Once onboard, expert spacious suites, fine dining, indulgent facilities and next-level service.
- Do themed cruises depart from Adelaide?
Yes, many cruises departing from Adelaide are themed around the incredible food and wine you’ll find in surrounding ports like Kangaroo Island and Tasmania. You can also find themed cruises that focus on comedy, music or sporting events.
- What's the recommended arrival time at the Adelaide cruise terminal?
Check in times for your cruise will be staggered to cut down on wait times for passengers. The process varies across different cruise lines, but you will be allocated a check in time based on your cabin or given the option to choose a check in slot when you book or through the lines’ app. At a minimum you will need to be at the cruise terminal at least one hour before the ship is scheduled to depart – remember, they won’t wait for you!
- Is there a parking facility at the Adelaide cruise port?
There is limited free parking available across from the cruise port, however don’t assume that you’ll be able to get a spot. A better option is Andrew’s Airport Parking, which has a secure car park about 25 minutes from the cruise terminal with regular shuttle buses between the two. Book ahead to secure your spot and get the best price.
- Are round-trip cruises available from Adelaide?
Many of the cruises that depart from Adelaide will sail on round trip itineraries, returning back to the same port. These cruise can be short loops around the South Australian coast and Kangaroo Island or longer voyages that take in Tasmania, Victoria and even New Zealand.
- When is the prime season for cruises from Adelaide?
The peak cruise period for ships sailing from Adelaide is between October and April. That includes the warmer months and the busy summer season.