About

NSW is Australia's most geographically diverse state, offering a wide range of attractions, both natural and man-made. With nine cruise ports along the scenic coastline known as the Blue Highway - each offering striking natural beauty and unique experiences for the visitor - the state caters to all segments of the cruise market.

Sydney claimed Cruise Passenger Magazine’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Award for Best Port, the fourth time it has taken out the top spot. More than 6500 readers voted in the awards.

The city continues to be Australia’s cruise gateway and one of the world’s most beautiful destinations with its iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and pristine beaches. It offers a blend of art, culture, dining, events and outdoor activities, coupled with contemporary and colonial architecture.

Sydney Harbour is complemented by eight other beautiful ports along the NSW coastline — Eden, Batemans Bay, Kiama, Wollongong, Newcastle, Trial Bay, Coffs Harbour and Yamba.

The growing popularity of cruising in NSW has cemented the state’s place as the premier and unrivalled cruise destination in Australia and the South Pacific.

Resources

Cruise Sydney & New South Wales - Along the Blue Highway

Includes berth details and port parameters plus a list of key attractions at each of NSW’s nine ports.

Quick tips for creating cruise shore experiences

Introduces the cruise market opportunity to visitor economy businesses such as tours, attractions, restaurants and retailers.

Value of cruise tourism: 2023/24

This economic impact assessment jointly commissioned by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and the Australian Cruise Association (ACA) shows cruising has significant impacts of $8.43 billion economic output for Australia in FY2023-24.