December Cruises from Sydney 2026
December brings holiday cruises with highest prices during Christmas and New Year weeks. Early December offers good values before holidays. Peak Caribbean season with perfect weather but premium pricing.
Why Cruise from Sydney in December?
December offers peak pricing and very high crowd levels for cruises from Sydney. Cruise from Sydney to explore Australia's coast, New Zealand, and South Pacific islands.
During December, the weather in Asia is winter season. Perfect Caribbean weather. Cold everywhere else. Holiday atmosphere on ships. Peak season pricing.
Where to Go from Sydney in December
Benefits of December
- Perfect Caribbean weather
- Holiday atmosphere
- Escape winter
- Early month deals
Things to Consider
- Christmas week extremely expensive
- New Year's premium pricing
- Most crowded month
- Limited availability
Sydney Port Highlights
Iconic Harbour Bridge sailaway
Gateway to New Zealand
Access to Great Barrier Reef
South Pacific island cruises
Historic Circular Quay terminal
Cruise Lines from Sydney
Planning Your December Cruise from Sydney
December is the peak season for cruises from Sydney, Australia. With peak pricing and very high crowd levels, it's perfect for those seeking the best weather. Popular destinations from Sydney in December include Australia, South Pacific.
Perfect Caribbean weather. Cold everywhere else. Holiday atmosphere on ships. Peak season pricing. Cruise prices in December typically range from €800 - €3,000, making it worth the premium for the experience.4+ cruise lines operate from Sydney during December, including Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line.
The port of Sydney offers iconic harbour bridge sailaway and gateway to new zealand. Convenient access via SYD - Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport. Book early for the best selection, especially for December departures which can sell out quickly during this peak period.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is December a good time to cruise from Sydney?
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December is a popular but expensive time to cruise from Sydney. Expect peak pricing and very high crowds. Perfect Caribbean weather. Cold everywhere else. Holiday atmosphere on ships. Peak season pricing.
What's the weather like in December for cruises from Sydney?
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December is winter season in Asia. Perfect Caribbean weather. Cold everywhere else. Holiday atmosphere on ships. Peak season pricing. Average temperatures range from 65-75°F.
How much do December cruises from Sydney cost?
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December cruise prices from Sydney range from €800 - €3,000, with peak pricing compared to other months. Prices are highest during this peak season, so book early.
What should I pack for a December cruise from Sydney?
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For December, pack layers, a light jacket for evening, comfortable walking shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen. Don't forget: passport, medications, formal night attire, and refillable water bottle.
Which cruise lines operate from Sydney in December?
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Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, and 1+ other cruise lines operate from Sydney in December. Popular destinations in December include Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, Mexican Riviera.
What to Pack for December Cruises
Essentials
- Valid passport (must be valid 6+ months after return)
- Cruise documents and boarding pass
- Credit card for onboard account
- Prescription medications (in original bottles)
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+, reef-safe for Caribbean)
- Comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions
- Layers for varying temperatures
- Formal/smart casual outfits (1 per formal night)
- Swimsuit and cover-up
- Phone charger and adapter (US outlets on most ships)
Nice to Have
- •Refillable water bottle
- •Day backpack for excursions
- •Waterproof phone case
- •Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- •Travel insurance documents
- •Seasickness medication (even if you don't usually need it)
- •Power strip (limited outlets in cabins)
- •Magnetic hooks for cabin metal walls
- •Highlighter for daily cruise planner
- •Small bills for tipping porters
When to Book December Cruises
12+ months before
Best cabin selection, lowest deposits, early saver rates up to 30% off
6-12 months before
Good availability, competitive pricing, ideal for Wave Season deals (Jan-Mar)
3-6 months before
Limited cabin choice, but potential for unsold inventory discounts
1-3 months before
Very limited options, mostly inside cabins, last-minute deals rare on popular dates
What's Included in Your Cruise Fare
Included in Fare
- Stateroom accommodation for cruise duration
- Main dining room meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Buffet and casual dining venues
- Pool, hot tubs, and fitness center access
- Most onboard entertainment (shows, live music, movies)
- Kids clubs and youth programs
- Room service (may have late-night fee)
Extra Costs
- Alcoholic beverages and specialty coffee
- Specialty restaurants ($25-75 per person)
- Shore excursions ($50-200+ per excursion)
- Spa services and salon treatments
- Casino and bingo
- Photos and professional photography
- Gratuities ($12-18 per person/day)
- Wi-Fi packages ($15-30 per day)
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