The annual Christmas holiday break is just around the corner. Rather than spending a traditional Aussie Christmas around the barbie, maybe this year you might like to consider a dedicated Christmas cruise through beautiful waterways. Many cruise lines organise fantastic itineraries over the holiday period, so that eager cruisers have the opportunity of enjoying a unique and highly memorable Christmas.
Here are our top five Christmas cruises.
South America
Quest with Azamara Cruises
It's all aboard the beautiful Quest luxury liner for a fantastic South American cruise. Departing from Rio de Janeiro, the ship heads south towards Buenos Aires in Argentina. The special day is spent in Punta Del Est, a picturesque coastal city in Uruguay that's known as the Saint Tropez of Latin America - the big attractions are the colonial architecture and the stunning Atlantic beaches.
The Caribbean
Celebrity Eclipse with Celebrity Cruises
The Caribbean is synonymous with crystal clear waters, stunning golden-sandy beaches and general relaxation. There really is no better way to experience the mesmerising Caribbean than on board a luxury ship. Cruisers can enjoy this magnificent region on a 14 night cruise departing from Fort Lauderdale and dropping anchor in Barbados, St Lucia and Grenada amongst others.
The Caribbean
Celebrity Equinox with Celebrity Cruises
Another itinerary option for the Caribbean is the route taken by the Celebrity Equinox. This expedition begins in Fort Lauderdale and heads to St Thomas, Dominca and St Maarten. December 25 is spent in Bridgetown, Barbados where you can take a marine trip with an experienced guide to admire the incredible array of marine life who call the beautiful waters home.
Australia
Radiance of the Seas with Royal Caribbean International
Eager cruisers can minimise travel time by cruising within Australian waters. The Radiance of the Seas departs from Sydney and heads north along our stunning eastern coastline, dropping anchor in Brisbane, Airlie Beach and Cairns. Christmas Day is spent on Willis Island in the Coral Sea.
European Christmas Markets
MS Scenic Diamond with Scenic Tours
Perhaps you'll appreciate celebrating the festive spirit in advance of the day itself. Scenic Tours organises a special European Christmas Market river cruise that departs in late November. Eager cruisers can spread the joy by admiring the Christmas markets in Amsterdam, Wurzburg, Nuremberg and Vienna before completing the 12 night journey in Budapest.