As Australians eagerly plan their following holidays, the rising cost of travel is a critical factor influencing decisions. A recent analysis conducted by Money.com.au reveals a game-changing alternative for those looking to save on their next getaway: cruising. A cruise could save over $100 a day for savvy travellers compared to traditional land-based holidays. This dramatic insight is making waves across the travel industry, urging Aussies to rethink how they approach their next adventure.
According to Money.com.au’s in-depth comparison, cruises offer a cost-effective solution that covers meals, entertainment, and select on-shore excursions—features that typically add significant expenses to on-land vacations. By bundling these critical elements into one fare, cruising presents a compelling financial advantage that is hard to overlook.
Cost Comparison: Cruises vs. Traditional Holidays
Money.com.au compared the total cost of cruises for two travellers from Australia to three popular international destinations, evaluating them against equivalent land-based holidays. The analysis included vital expenses such as economy flights and hotel accommodations at the final docking city, offering a clear perspective on the potential savings.
1. Sydney to New Zealand: 10-Night Cruise vs. Traditional Holiday
For those dreaming of exploring New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes, the savings are substantial when opting for a cruise. A 10-night South Pacific voyage aboard the luxurious Ovation of the Seas, departing from Sydney and exploring iconic New Zealand destinations like Wellington and the South Island, costs $4,997. This package includes all onboard meals, entertainment, and a drinks package.
In contrast, a traditional 10-day holiday for two to New Zealand could set travellers back $6,013. Of this, $2,813 would be dedicated to flights and accommodation, and an additional $3,200 would be required for meals, drinks, and activities.
The numbers speak for themselves: The cruise comes out to $499.70 per day, while a traditional trip would cost $601.30 per day—a daily saving of $101.60. The cruise would save you $1,016, making it a much more budget-friendly choice.
Sean Callery, Finance Expert at Money.com.au, explains, “The cost per day of cruising can be much lower than a traditional trip when you factor in the included meals and activities. It’s a smart choice for travellers who want to manage their spending without sacrificing the experience.”
2. Sydney to Fiji: 13-Night Cruise vs. Traditional Holiday
With its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, Fiji remains a top holiday destination for Aussies. A 13-night Princess Cruises voyage from Sydney to Fiji, with stops in New Caledonia, costs $6,208. This fare includes onboard meals, entertainment, and a basic drinks package.
A comparable 13-day traditional holiday for two to Fiji costs $7,533, with flights and accommodation alone reaching $3,333. Meals, drinks, and activities would add $4,200.
The cruise costs $477.54 per day, compared to $579.46 per day for the land-based trip—a daily saving of $101.92. Opting for the cruise could save you $1,325, providing excellent value for those seeking a tropical escape.
3. Transpacific Adventure: 21-Night Cruise to Hawaii vs. Traditional Holiday
For travellers eyeing a more extensive journey, a 21-night transpacific cruise aboard Quantum of the Seas, travelling from Sydney to Honolulu with stops in New Zealand and French Polynesia, is a financial revelation. The cruise is priced at $7,278 and includes all meals, entertainment, and a spirits-only drinks package.
By comparison, a 21-day traditional holiday to Hawaii for two travellers would cost a staggering $12,680, with $6,580 devoted to flights and accommodation and an additional $5,800 for meals, drinks, and activities.
The numbers reveal an impressive savings opportunity: The cruise costs just $346.57 per day, compared to $603.80 per day for the traditional holiday—a daily saving of $257.23. In total, choosing the cruise could save you $5,402, nearly cutting the cost of the trip in half.
Why Cruising Could Be the Best Way to Travel
The financial benefits of cruising don’t just stop at meals and entertainment. “Cruises offer tremendous value by bundling key travel expenses into one package,” Callery says. “For travellers comfortable with spending extended periods at sea, the savings can be substantial. On the flip side, traditional holidays tend to be more expensive because costs like meals, drinks, and entertainment are often separate, leading to higher overall expenses.”
Additionally, Callery highlights that cruises provide a unique opportunity to explore multiple destinations in one trip, reducing the need for multiple flights or overland transport. “This convenience is another reason why many travellers are choosing cruises as their preferred holiday option.”
However, Callery notes some limitations. “While cruising is a fantastic way to save money, the variety of departure locations may be more limited than flights. Travellers may need to factor in the cost of travelling to a cruise’s departure city, which could slightly offset the savings.”
The Verdict: Savings Beyond Expectations
For Australians planning their next holiday, cruises present a severe contender in the battle for budget-friendly travel. Whether exploring the natural beauty of New Zealand, soaking up the sun in Fiji, or venturing across the Pacific to Hawaii, cruising offers significant savings that can enhance your travel experience without breaking the bank.
With all-inclusive pricing, unforgettable experiences, and the ability to visit multiple destinations in one trip, cruises are more than just a relaxing vacation—they’re a wise financial choice for the modern traveller.
Written by: Michelle Warner
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