World Cruise Destinations -
Asia, Australia & The Pacific
The skyline of Hong Kong from Victoria Peak
To help you pick the right ship and itinerary, we have listed most of the destinations in Asia, Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific that our cruise line partners are planning to visit on their next world cruises on these pages. Although a few words can never do justice to the magnificent places that you can visit, we hope to pique your wanderlust with the following short descriptions for each location or port. We have also included an indicator to show which ship(s) call on that port during a world cruise or grand voyage. Ports are listed in alphabetical order by the name of the main city or destination. If the port city has a different name, it is listed in brackets.
World Cruise Destinations in North, Central, South America and Hawaii
World Cruise Destinations in Europe, Africa and the Middle East
Asia, Australia & The Pacific
Adelaide - Australia
Decisions, decisions: should you try some of Australia's best wine regions that are so conveniently located near Adelaide, or enjoy a true Australian bush adventure at Conservation Park, a well-known wildlife reserve on the slopes of Mt. Lofty?
Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 |
Albany - Australia
Albany started off as one of Australia's notorious penal colonies. Now, it is a charming city of scenic beauty and historical sites. Don't forget to have tea at the Princess Royal Fortress, Australia's first federal fortress.
Apia - Samoa
Apia is the quaint capital of Samoa. Beach Road is the main stretch for shops, hotels and restaurants, but the overall laid-back atmosphere of Apia is one of its main attractions. For a more cultural experience, visit the Catholic Church and the Samoa Museum.
Auckland - New Zealand
Nicknamed the City of Sails, Auckland is a sparkling clean city surrounded by water. You'll find a picturesque waterfront, fine museums and extinct volcanoes. For a great view, visit the Auckland Sky Tower, or see the unusual Glow Worm Grotto.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Bali - Indonesia
The gracious people of the beautiful island of Bali welcome you to this wonderful place full of traditions, stunning temples and volcanic slopes. The many green terraced rice fields compete for your attention with the artful display and colorful dress of the island's traditional dancers. Make sure you pick up some batik fabrics or other handicrafts while you're here!
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 |
Bandar Seri Begawan (Muara) - Brunei
Learn about the local history and culture of the mysterious Sultanate of Brunei at the Brunei Museum and visit the gold-domed Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin Mosque.
Bangkok (Laem Chabang) - Thailand
Home to eight million people, Bangkok offers you exquisite shopping, gorgeous handicrafts and intriguing attractions like the Grand Palace complex on the Chao Praya River and the beautiful Temple of the Golden Buddha and the Temple of the Reclining Buddha.
Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Bay of Islands - New Zealand
The Bay of Islands features gorgeous beaches, sensational views of sea and sky and lots of opportunities for boating and water sports. Learn about the distinctive culture and rich heritage of the Maoris at the Maori Meeting House.
Beijing (Xingang) - China
China's capital offers many attractions: the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square and excellent shopping for silk and handicrafts. A bit further afield you'll find the Summer Palace and the Great Wall. And many world cruises offer the option to travel to the Terra Cotta Warriors in Xian, China.
Terra Cotta Warriors, Xian, China
Bora Bora - Society Islands
Just it name conjures up images of a lush tropical island, azure blue waters and some of world's most beautiful beaches. And rightly so! Let us arrange a boat ride along the clear blue lagoon - and if you like, snorkel with sharks or swim with stingrays! Not quite so adventurous? Learn more about the Polynesian culture, or simply relax on a powdery white sand beach.
Brisbane - Australia
The capital of the tropical state of Queensland, Brisbane, is also the third largest city in Australia, with a wide variety of attractions, including the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (the largest and oldest in the world), a variety of Victorian buildings and the City Botanic Gardens.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 |
Bunbury - Australia
Situated on a peninsula, about 100 miles from Perth, Bunbury is almost entiry surrounded by water, home to playful bottlenose dolphins; plants as old as dinosaurs and other natural attractions. In addition, you'll find shopping centers and boutiques and typically casual Australian atmosphere.
Burnie, Tasmania - Australia
Busan - South Korea
Previously known as Pusan, South Korea's second-largest city is an intriguing blend of new and old. Wander amidst modern high-rise towers to discover ancient temples in their shadows.
Cairns (Yorkeys Knob) - Australia
Known for incredible beaches and gorgeous weather, Cairns will also give you access to natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef and the fantastically lush Daintree National Park.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Christchurch (Lyttelton) - New Zealand
Cathedral Square is the heart of this very "British" town. Take a tram around the historical city center or learn about New Zealand's unusual native fauna at the Southern Encounter Aquarium & Kiwi House.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2011 |
Chennai - India
Previously known as Madras, Chennai is the capital of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Althought largely a busy industrial city, Chennai boasts an interesting variety of British colonial architecture and Hindu temples. Here you will also find the Basilica of the National Shrine of St. Thomas: one of three churches in the world (the others are the Basilica of St. Peter in Rome and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain for St. James) built over the tomb of one of Jesus Christ's apostles.
Chuuk - Micronesia
Chuuk is a large atoll with a vast lagoon that almost seems like an underwater museum, surrounded by coconut palms and white sand beaches. Here you see over 100 shipwrecks just below the clear blue water while snorkelling.
Cochin - India
Located on the Kerala coast, Cochin boasts a rich cultural heritage from its days as a major trading port and counts English mansions, a Portuguese fort, a Dutch Palace and a Jewish synagogue among its many sights.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 |
Colombo - Sri Lanka
Colombo is the largest city and former capital of Sri Lanka. It is a busy and vibrant city with a mixture of modern life and historical buildings and ruins. Even today, the colonial influences from the Portuguese, Dutch and English is still clearly visible in Colombo's architecture, names, clothing, food and attitude.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 |
Da Nang/Hue (Chan May) - Vietnam
The port city of Da Nang is the gateway to a number of UNESCO world heritage sites, including the Imperial City of Hue with its variety of palaces and temples and the old town of Hoi An.
Darwin - Australia
The capital of Australia's Northern Territory grew from a pioneer outpost and small port into one of Australia's most modern and multicultural cities - but is still the least populous of all Australia's capital cities. The city has many miles of wide, unpolluted beaches and serves as the gateway to Kakadu National Park.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 |
Dunedin - New Zealand
Easter Island - Chile
Easter Island, also known as Rapa Nui or Isla de Pascua, is one of the most remote islands in the world. Although it is officially a territory of Chile, it is actually about halfway between Chile and Tahiti. The island is of course most famous for its centuries old giant stone statues, known as Moai. In addition, the island offers the volcanic craters of Rano Kau and Rano Raraku, and an extensive cave system.
Exmouth - Australia
Exmouth is all about its surrounding natural splendours, including the Ningaloo Marine Park with hundreds of pecies of hard and soft corals. Back on dry land, the Cape Range National Park boasts gorgeous views among a series of scenic gorges.
Fiji (Dravuni Island)
Goa (Marmagoa/Mormugao) - India
Marmagoa, the main port of the Indian state of Goa, gives easy access to the treasures of this former Portuguese colony. Visit the Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, including the Se Cathedral, the church of St. Francis of Assisi and the Basilica of Bom Jesus which contains the body of Saint Francis Xavier.
Beach in Goa, India
Guam - Northern Mariana Islands
Guam is an island territory of the United States. You'll find gorgeous beaches, birds and flowers, but also the interesting War in the Pacific Park that commemorates the military actions that took place in the Pacific during World War II.
Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Ha Long Bay/Hanoi (Cai Lan) - Vietnam
You'll still find the French influence in Hanoi: tree-lined boulevards, green public parks and colonial architecture. Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is noted for its more than 1,600 spectacular limestone islands.
Hiroshima - Japan
Hiroshima became best known as the first city in history to be destroyed by a nuclear weapon. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park draws many visitors from around the world to remember that moment, but there are also other attractions, including the beautiful Hiroshima castle.
Queen Mary 2 - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Ho Chi Minh City (Vung Tau/Phy My) - Vietnam
Formerly known as Saigon, on the Mekong River, you can tour the National History Museum or shop on famous Dong Khoi Street. Maybe you want to watch a performance of Vietnamese water puppets, or learn about the country's history at Reunification Hall.
Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Hobart, Tasmania - Australia
The capital of the island state of Tasmania, Hobart, is known for its historical inner suburbs and a rich music, restaurant, beer and wine culture. Hobart's wine industry thrives and the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Garden is another attraction.
Hong Kong - China
Sailing into Victoria Harbour is one of the highlights of many world cruises: steel and glass skyscrapers fight for space with historic temples, oldfashioned junks cross the waters next to the famous Star Ferries. Shop in one of the many street markets, travel to the Peak by Peak Tram for a stunning view of this metropolis or take a cable car to see the largest Buddha statue in the world.
Hong Kong Peak Tram
Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Ko Samui - Thailand
On the island of Ko Samui you can watch monkeys harvest coconuts, or enjoy a swim on Chaweng or one of the many other beaches. Also make sure you visit the Big Buddha Temple.
Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 |
Komodo Island - Indonesia
Komodo Island is known for the famed Komodo Dragon, the world's largest living species of lizard. The Komodo Dragon can grow up to 10 feet.
Kota Kinabalu - Malaysia
Kota Kinabalu is located on the island of Borneo, in the Malaysian state of Sabah and known for its stunning natural wonders, parks and bird sanctuaries. For a more cultural experience, visit the Sabah State Museum.
Kuala Lumpur (Port Kelang) - Malaysia
From Port Kelang you can get to Kuala Lumpur, known as "KL" by the locals. Visit the King's Palace, beautiful mosques or the twin Petronas Towers that define the city's skyline. Like spicy food? KL is heaven!
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 |
Langkawi - Malaysia
This cluster of 99 islands boasts palm-fringed beaches that are the envy of all Malaysia. You'll also enjoy many other natural wonders and learn about the area's folklore.
Lautoka - Fiji
The friendly city of Lautoka welcomes you to Fiji's largest island and offers a wonderful introduction to Fijian life. The main attractions include the lush Botanical Garden, but save some time for shopping in the handicraft markets.
Lyttelton - New Zealand
See Christchurch, New Zealand
Male - Maldives
Male is the capital of the island nation of the Maldives, a group of atolls in the Indian Ocean. Male takes up one entire small island and gives you access to local culture and life in the Sultans Gardens Park and the National Museum.
Melbourne - Australia
Located where the Yarra River feeds into Port Philip Bay, Australia's second city is arguably its most "European" one, with a combination of beautiful Victorian architecture and parks, gorgeous shopping arcades and boulevards, art galleries, wine bars and cafes.
Royal Arcade, Melbourne, Australia
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 |
Moorea - Society Islands
If you picture a tropical island paradise, Moorea is it: a green island surrounded by a shallow lagoon with crystal clear water. Pastel colored homes and tropical flowers will compete for your attention, as will the white sandy beaches.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 |
Mumbai (Bombay) - India
Formerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is every bit as exotic and intriguing as you imagine it to be. You could spend a day here simply people-watching in the markets and on the bustling streets, but you probably prefer to visit sights like the Gateway to India arch, take a boat ride to Elephanta Island or see the Jain Temple. On some cruises, you may be able to make a day trip to Agra and its famous monument to love, the Taj Mahal.
Taj Mahal, Agra, India
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Nha Trang - Vietnam
This coastal city boasts one of the most beautiful bays in the world and easy access to beautiful natural beaches and parks. If you're not a beach goer, consider visiting Buddhist temples or shopping in one of the many markets.
Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 |
Nagasaki - Japan
This lovely city was the setting for Puccini's famous opera "Madame Butterfly". Located on Japan's Kyushu Island, Nagasaki is often described as the San Francisco of Japan, with green hills surrounded by a deep-water bay.
Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 |
Napier - New Zealand
Napier, a city on Hawke's Bay, the East coast of New Zealand's North Island is known for its Art Deco architecture. This was the result of an earthquake in 1931 that resulted in most of the city being rebuilt. Nearby attractions include the wineries and vineyards of nearby Hastings City.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 |
Noumea - New Caledonia
Try the local food and you'll immediately will be able to tell that the South Pacific islands of New Caledonia are French territories, but the ambience is distinctly tropical.
Osaka (for Kyoto) - Japan
The large city of Osaka also serves as a gateway to the historical city of Kyoto, once the Imperial capital of Japan. Here you'll find an extensive collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the city has over 2,000 shrines!
Pago Pago - American Samoa
One of the best parts of a visit to Pago Pago is sailing into its gorgeous deep water harbor, surrounded by lush, dramatic mountains. You'll certainly get a feel for life in the South Pacific while exploring this quiet town.
Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Penang - Malaysia
Penang is an alluring combination of golden beaches and cultural gems. Along the north coast, Penang’s most famous beach is lined with luxury Asian hotels while Malay kampongs sprinkle across a countryside scented with cloves and nutmeg. Admire the giant reclining Buddha and the 1,000 gilded statues of Kek Lok Si Temple. See the elaborate clan house of the Chinese Khoo Kongsi. Ride a tram to the superb vistas atop Penang Hill. Or set out for the Temple of the Azure Cloud, also known as the “Snake Temple”, where sacred pit vipers, half-drugged by incense, writhe around the columns and statues.
Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 |
Perth (Fremantle) - Australia
From Fremantle you can visit Perth, the capital of Western Australia and a modern city with beaches and a rich history from convict days to the present.
Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 |
Phuket - Thailand
Known for its beaches and crystal waters, Phuket also offers lush forests and the revered Chalong Monastery.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Picton - New Zealand
Picton is a quaint town in a lush setting on New Zealand's South Island. It's a convenient gateway for exploring beautiful Marlborough Sounds and a great place for outdoor activities, whether you'd like to go hiking or biking 0r prefer sailing and fishing.
Pitcairn - UK Territory
Pitcairn is part of a volcanic island group in the Southern Pacific Ocean and a United Kingdom territory. It is best known as the home to the descendants of the Bounty mutineers and the Tahitians who accompanied them. Pitcairn only has about 50 inhabitants who are quite willing to share their history with visitors who respectfully treat this island and its history.
Port Denarau - Fiji
Azure lagoons, white sands, verdant jungles and tumbling waterfalls welcome you to beautiful Fiji. Attractions include the Sabeto Hot Springs and the colorful Sri Subramaniya Hindu temple, believed to be the largest in the Southern hemisphere.
Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 |
Port Douglas, Australia - see Cairns
Pusan - South Korea - see Busan
Rabaul - Papua New Guinea
Decidedly off the beaten path, Rabaul is a picturesque town in Papua New Guinea located on the edge of Rabaul Caldera. Gain an insight into the fascinating culture and history of this island nation and explore sights such as the Rabaul Volcanological Observatory.
Rarotonga - Cook Islands
Palm-studded white sand beaches are the perfect starting point for snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, horse back riding or hiking.
Saipan - Northern Mariana Islands
Saipan is a tropical island in the heart of the Pacific, with beautiful sandy beaches and wonderful diving.
Shanghai - China
Gaze at the futuristic skyline while you're walking on The Bund, Shanghai's famous waterside promenade, and you'll realize how quickly China is developing. Go shopping or visit the Ming Dynasty Yu Garden.
Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Sihanoukville - Cambodia
The town of Sihanoukville is surrounded on three sides by the Bay of Thailand. From the beaches and surrounding hills, this is Cambodia's most famous beach resort.
Singapore
This tropical city state is known for shopping, and for blending many Asian cultures. Here you can shop for spices in Little India, visit Buddhist temples and Arab bazaars and stroll through Victorian-style streets. If you stay overnight, consider a visit to the Night Zoo for a unique encounter with animals that tend to be more active at night.
Singapore
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Suva - Fiji
Immerse yourself in the unique culture of Fiji. Made up of over 300 islands, the Fiji archipelago stretches across a wide swath of the South Pacific. The capital Suva welcomes visitors with colonial architecture and distinctive Fijian cultural rituals such as firewalkers, Kava ceremonies, tribal dance and song.
Sydney - Australia
Tour the world famous Opera House, take a ferry to one of the many clean beaches, travel to the breathtaking Blue Mountains - there is so much to do here that you'll be glad that many world cruises stay overnight here! On some sailings, you may even be able to go on an optional land tour to Ayers Rock.
Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 | Queen Mary 2 - 2012 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Tahiti (Papeete) - Society Islands
Sugary white sandy beaches, the fragrances of tropical flowers that greet you, Tahiti and its islands welcome you to your island paradise. Tahiti is the largest of the Society Islands with a mountainous interior adorned with deep valleys, clear streams and rushing waterfalls. Papeete, the capital, is the gateway of the country and offers resorts and restaurants, pearl shops and vibrant markets. There is so much to explore here!
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2011 |
Tauranga - New Zealand
Tonga (Nuku'Alofa)
Nuku'Alofa is the capital of the tiny Pacific country of Tonga. Here, you will discover the charm of a small Pacific island nation. See the Royal Palace and Parliament Building or visit one of the local markets.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Tokyo (Yokohama) - Japan
Travel from Yokohama to Tokyo and you'll be astounded at the neon signs, the crowds and the impressive buildings of Tokyo. But stroll by the Imperial Palace or one of the historical temples and you'll appreciate the unique style that is so Japanese.
Tokyo, Japan
Queen Mary 2 - 2011 | Pacific Princess - 2012 |
Vila - Vanuatu
Capital of the Pacific island nation of Vanuatu, quaint Vila will show you everything you'd expect of such a place. Inviting blue seas and gracious, friendly people will welcome you.
Wellington - New Zealand
Located in the shadow of Mt. Victoria and set amidst forested peninsulas, this enchanting city features a bustling waterfront, fine Victorian architecture and landmarks from the Parliament Building to the indigenous artefacts of the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongerewa.
Crystal Serenity - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2011 | Queen Elizabeth - 2012 |
Whitsunday Islands (Great Barrier Reef) - Australia
The Whitsunday Islands are located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. What better location to explore the majestic scenery of the world's largest reef! Snorkel, dive or simply relax in these clear blue waters.
Yangon - Myanmar
Although Yangon, previously called Rangoon, is no longer the capital of the country that used to be known as Burma, it is still the largest city and most important commercial center. Yangon is less developed than other Southeast Asian cities but offers a range of pagodas and churches, as well as some interesting historical architecture and of course access to the myriad of interesting sites in Myanmar.