Sydney

Sydney sits on the southeastern coast of Australia, where the city meets the waters of Port Jackson, one of the world's finest natural harbours. Sydney Cruise Port is the busiest Australian homeport and ship travel destination, and is mainly a turnaround port where most voyages to New Zealand, Tasmania and the South Pacific begin and end.

The port has two cruise terminals. The Overseas Passenger Terminal is located on the western side of Sydney Cove and forms part of Circular Quay, stretching from The Rocks all the way around to the Sydney Opera House. The Sydney Cove Passenger Terminal was built in 1958 to 1960 and sits at the heart of the city, making it a five-minute walk to the central business district. The White Bay Cruise Terminal opened on 15 April 2013 and serves larger ships that fit beneath the Harbour Bridge. It won the transport section at the World Architecture Festival in October 2013.

Port Jackson itself is ringed by Sydney's most celebrated sights. The harbour is the location of significant landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The bridge has carried rail, vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians across the harbour since 1932, and the Opera House is among the world's most recognizable buildings. As the location of the first permanent European settlement on the Australian mainland, Port Jackson has played a key role in the history of Sydney, as well as its social and economic development.

Beyond the immediate harbour, Sydney offers plenty for cruisers ashore. Iconic beaches such as Bondi, Bronte and Clovelly are within easy reach of the Central Business District, as is Manly, a charming seaside town located a short ferry ride from Circular Quay. The city has become known for its dining scene, with everything from fine restaurants to casual spots serving local specialities. Sydney has a temperate climate with mild winters and warm, sunny summers, making it a great destination to visit year-round.

The Cruise Globe lets you see the exact routes ships sailed into and out of Sydney's legendary harbour.