From bad buffet breakfasts to awkward onboard entertainment, it’s time to forget everything you know about cruising cliches!

Here’s five reasons to consider an Australian cruise with Carnival Cruise Line this summer for a curated holiday that is equal parts exploration and relaxation.

1. Soak up the Summer sun

Overseas cruises are an excellent mid-year option when the Winter Blues beckon. But, coming December, chasing a Euro Summer seems somewhat redundant given that Australia is already serving endless sunny days and warm nights. From the balmy tropical breezes of God’s Country (Queensland) to the glorious coasts of its sisterly state down south (New South Wales), a local cruise means there is no need to leave the country to dose up on Vitamin D, and enjoy some super stylish staycationing.

2. More relaxing than a road trip…

Road trips are good in theory … until you realise that super-long stretches of highway driving don’t really deliver a scenic route. (No offence McDonald’s Pit stop #124!)

In contrast, Carnival lets you hop between some of the country’s most iconic destinations, with regularly scheduled picturesque pitstops including the sandy beaches and famed shipwrecks of Tangalooma at Moreton Island, the tropical wonders of the Great Barrier Reef, or the coast of Airlie beach.

As well as adventure-packed activities at each port (everything from snorkelling to seaside strolls), each evening then invites you to reboard your ship with a killer sunset cocktail in hand as you sail off to your next destination. Not exactly an option when you’re on driving duties.

3. … with infinitely better food options

Fun Fact: A Carnival cruise is known for stopping the repetition of questions asking “What’s for lunch, mum?” by approximately 100%.

This probably has something to do with the excellent food and plethora of activities available onboard – everything from family-friendly water sports, to adults-only evening entertainment – to keep travellers well distracted. Plus, excellent dining options that extend beyond a warm service station meat pie. Expect burgers, pizza and delicious mezze plates at Mad Sizzle on Carnival Splendor – as well as finer gourmet fare for those who prefer an elevated epicurean experience.

4. Cut the chaos of airport check-ins

From overpriced parking and chaotic queues for security checks and baggage claims, exactly nobody likes the chaos of airports, especially, during the silly season. Thankfully, a good cruise makes it easy to start your holiday stress-free. With convenient departures from centrally located ports – including Sydney Overseas Passenger Terminal and Brisbane International Cruise Terminal – all you need to do is pack your bags and step on board. Talk about smooth sailing .. literally!

Bonus: Using the Sydney Opera House or the Brisbane skyline as your backdrop is a much more stylish way to update your Instagram story and announce your travel plans than a snap in front of the departures sign, right?

5. Time (and cost) effective travel

Think cruising takes weeks of planning and breaks the bank? Think again. Carnival’s Australian cruises offer short and sweet itineraries that are perfect for those who want a quick escape. With cruises as short as two days, you can enjoy a mini getaway without needing to burn through your annual leave.

And, the best bit for travellers who may have blown the budget on Silly Season spending is that there are deals that start at impressively low prices – offering unbeatable value for accommodation, meals, and entertainment. Compare that to booking flights, hotels, and activities separately, and it’s easy to see why cruising can be a very well-calculated way to squeeze in a sneaky last-minute trip.