SMOOTH SAILING - THE CRUISES TO BOOK NOW

There's been a revolution at sea that will leave any landlubber excited to book a cruise this instant!

Cruising is finally back, and in Australia it's set to be a bigger season than ever, with tempting new and refurbished ships, new ports and new expeditions. Why worry about negotiating long lines and cancellations at airports, not to mention repacking every day, when you can simply hop on a cruise ship at your closest port and wake up to a new adventure daily? Whether you're planning a big family escape, an intrepid journey of discovery or simply want to enjoy a luxurious onboard lifestyle, here are some of the cruises heading our way.

BEST FOR ADVENTURERS

Keen to join an expedition exploring the heart of remote islands and captivating landscapes? Consider a journey with French luxury expedition cruise brand Ponant. Among its offerings are itineraries exploring the spectacular and untamed Kimberley region of Western Australia. In exciting news, the 32-passenger sailing yacht Le Ponant will join the fleet for the 2023 Kimberley season.

In partnership with the prestigious Paspaley pearling group, guests will enjoy the chance to take a private scenic flight on one of the group's vintage Grumman Mallard flying boats, as well as private access to discover its Kuri Bay pearl operations. A continent away, meanwhile, newer itineraries include Treasures of the South Australian Coast and Tasmania.

Sailing on Le Laperouse, which features the world's first underwater lounge, called Blue Eye, you'll cruise from Sydney to Hobart, taking in Jervis Bay, Eden and Maria Island before discovering the absorbing wildlife (fur seals! little penguins! whales!) of the Tasman Peninsula. Visit au.ponant.com.

BEST FOR THOSE WHO LOVE TRADITION