Up to $400 OBC worldwide cruises
Best places to cruise in March
Where to sail for the best weather and maximum adventure.
We’re reader-supported and may be paid when you visit links to partner sites. We don’t compare all products in the market, but we’re working on it!
Cruising update
Australia has a cruise ban in place until 17 April 2022. This could be extended further. This ban is on luxury cruise ships and doesn't apply to short or day cruises along local waterways.
March is a changeover season for many parts of the world. In the northern hemisphere, it's the end of the bitter cold. Here in the south, we're getting ready to say goodbye to the heat of summer.
Our list covers the best places to consider for a cruise vacation with the best weather possible with minimal rain and maximum sunshine.
Where to cruise in Australia in March 2022
These destinations offer local cruises and sailings which are running right now.
1. Great Barrier Reef
Swim, snorkel or dive one of Australia's greatest natural wonders.
Sailings from Cairns out to the Great Barrier Reef run throughout the year. The weather is almost always blissful and the sights incredible.
- Departures from: Cairns, Whitsundays.
- Why March? Low-season with better prices and smaller crowds so you can have the water practically to yourself.
2. Tasmania
Circumnavigate the entire island by water.
Cruising around the island under Down Under is a unique way to discover all its hidden secrets. You'll also see parts of the island that are off the standard tourist itinerary such as Sheffield, Stanley, Macquarie Harbour and Queenstown.
- Departures from: Hobart.
- Why March? The weather is still warm enough for a dip in the water.
3. Sydney
Spend a few hours on the water when the weather is just right.
You'll not fall short of Sydney Harbour cruises that offer a little something for everybody. Choose between a private sail or scenic cruise with dinner, drinks, high-tea, a buffet and some commentary along your journey.
- Departures from: Sydney Harbour.
- Why March? Warm weather and fewer crowds.
Top 5 places to cruise in March in Australia and around the world
While now is not the right time for a long, luxury cruise, some of these destinations can inspire your future travel plans.
1. Kangaroo Island
A little island with a lot to offer.
From bushfires to a pandemic, tourism on Kangaroo Island has been struggling for a while now.
If you've been putting off a trip then this is the time to go and support the local tourism trade.
- Departures from: Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide.
- Why March? The cooler months draw in smaller crowds and wildlife is in easy view. Little penguins start to nest in March as well.
2. Melbourne
The big city that has a little something for everyone.
Melbourne is often called the cultural capital of Australia and for good reason. It's stylish, artsy and often the birthplace of hipster trends around the country.
You can choose to either do a roundtrip cruise or disembark in Melbourne to take in more of the sights before flying home.
- Departures from: Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth.
- Why March? A slew of fun festivals happens in March with something to appeal to most. March is just after the city’s hottest and wettest months so you miss out on those sweltering Melbourne summers.
3. Great Barrier Reef
Snorkel, dive or swim the largest coral reef system in the world.
As the weather cools down there's one tourist attraction you can bet will stay warm this month: the Whitsundays. Known for its heaven-sent beaches and marine life, it's enjoyed by young and old, solo travellers or multi-generational families.
- Departures from: Most departures are from Sydney or Brisbane.
- Why March? March is still brilliantly warm with temperatures in the high 20s yet it's in between school holiday dates meaning it will be less crowded.
4. New Zealand
Winter is knocking on the door so it's time to see the last of the summer scenery.
The warmer months will soon be gone so March will be your last chance for those nature-based shore excursions.
While you won't see any snow, you'll be able to visit some of the most picturesque summer spots, like Hobbiton, Marlborough and the hot thermal springs of Rotorua.
- Departures from: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Darwin.
- Why March? You should find lower prices now that the summer crowds have died off.
5. Los Angeles
Rub shoulders with A-listers in the City of Angels.
The second largest city in the USA is the hub for all things Hollywood. If you're feeling like some childlike fun, head to one of the big theme parks or if you want to soak in all the sights then just pick an area and explore on foot.
- Departures from: Vancouver or San Francisco.
- Why March? The rainy winter season is over and the air is less heavy with smog.
Latest cruise deals
More guides on Finder
-
Best places to cruise in December
Spend Christmas hopping between local Christmas markets or bathe in Queensland's blissful beaches.
-
Best cruise destinations in August
Our hit-picks on the exotic locations to cruise around in August before the change of season.
-
Save up to 40% off Royal Caribbean cruises
EXPIRED: Plus nab up to US$300 in onboard credit across hundreds of sailings.
-
5 of the best places to cruise in July
July is a great month for quirky and off-the-beaten-track destinations to suit all kinds of travellers.
-
Best places to cruise in June
June is an ideal month for some of the top cruise destinations whether you’ve packed your bathers or winter woollies.
-
Party cruises in Sydney that’ll really rock your boat
Make it a night to remember with these Sydney Harbour party cruises that will get you up and dancing the night away.
-
Newcastle Harbour cruises
See a whole new side of Newcastle that you can only access from the water on these Newcastle Harbour cruises.
-
Best cruises and cruise destinations in April for Australians
April brings spring flowers, off-peak crowds and an itinerary filled with beaches and ancient cities.
-
Score up to 45% off and free perks with Celebrity Cruises Valentine’s Day sale
EXPIRED: Enjoy free drinks, bonus onboard credit and free WiFi on your next cruise.
Ask an Expert