Cruising in Australia

While most people think “cruise” and their minds go immediately to the Caribbean or Alaska, AdventureSmith Explorations offers cruises to one of the most fascinating landscapes in the world — Australia. Rather than try to see the entire continent, or most of it, over the course of a cruise itinerary, though, the small ship cruise provider dives deep into one particular destination on the continent so cruisers get a more in-depth, personalized experience.

“Don’t shortchange this great destination by trying to do too much,” says Todd Smith, founder and president, AdventureSmith Explorations.

The cruise line’s Australian Outback itinerary includes 11 days in Kimberley, often considered Australia’s “Alaska,” or the continent’s last frontier. It is the least densely populated part of Australia and one of the least densely populated places in the world.

The itinerary includes hiking, scenic helicopter flights, kayaking and cultural experiences like visiting caves to see aboriginal art. Wildlife viewing includes brown boobies, Roseate terns and green sea turtles.

A shorter, eight-day cruise takes guests on a luxury experience through Tasmania. The flexible itinerary corresponds with weather conditions, so guests might spend a few days exploring the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, oyster farms, seal colonies or a number of options.

If you have as few as four days, you can take the cruise line’s Great Barrier Reef cruise for experiences beyond what the snorkel, dive and daytrip boats see.

Australia small-ship cruises from AdventureSmith Explorations start at $2,655 per person.