South Korea Cruises

Uncover the Allure of South Korea with Cruise1st

Rich in cultural heritage and modern marvels, South Korea is a vibrant destination that perfectly blends tradition with innovation. From the hustle and bustle of bustling cities like Seoul to the serene beauty of Jeju Island, South Korea is bursting with things to explore. Fun fact: South Korea has more than 3,000 islands, each with its own unique character! Taking a cruise to South Korea is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the culture, taste incredible cuisine, and explore stunning landscapes—all while enjoying the comfort of your floating hotel. So get ready to experience the beauty and charm of this incredible country!

Major Cruise Lines Offering South Korea Itineraries

• Princess Cruises: With a total fleet size of 17, Princess has 1 ship cruising to South Korea—Diamond Princess. Known for its warm hospitality and extensive range of onboard activities, this ship prioritises passenger satisfaction in every way. Cruises typically depart from Yokohama (Tokyo) or Tokyo, making it easy for cruisers from Australia to find an accessible sailing point for their journey to South Korea!
• Celebrity Cruises: This line boasts a fleet of 16, with 1 ship offering itineraries to South Korea, Celebrity Millennium. Guests enjoy premium amenities and top-notch entertainment on board, making every moment special. Departures are often made from Yokohama (Tokyo) or Tokyo, allowing travellers to combine the excitement of Japan with their South Korean adventure.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Featuring 20 ships in total, Norwegian has 3 that offer itineraries to South Korea, notably Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Sky. These vessels are celebrated for a lively atmosphere and a wide selection of dining options catering to all tastes. Norwegian cruises to South Korea typically depart from Seoul or Tokyo, perfect for those adding a bit of Japanese flair to their trip.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 1 that travels to South Korea, Westerdam. Known for its elegant style and focus on cultural enrichment, Westerdam offers a fantastic cruise experience. Departures are often from Yokohama (Tokyo) or Hong Kong, making it a good option for those looking to explore multiple destinations.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: A large fleet of 29 gives Royal Caribbean plenty of flexibility, with 4 ships cruising to South Korea, including Spectrum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas. Both ships feature thrilling onboard activities and diverse culinary experiences. The primary ports of departure for these cruises are Shanghai or Beijing, allowing adventurous cruisers to experience East Asia before arriving in South Korea.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to South Korea

• Oceania Cruises: This line has a fleet of 8 ships, with 3 offering itineraries that include South Korea. The Riviera and Regatta are renowned for their culinary artistry and destination immersion, ensuring a top-notch cruising experience. Typically, cruises to South Korea depart from Hong Kong or Tokyo, providing guests with seamless access to the stunning coasts of this fascinating country.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6, Seabourn offers 2 ships—Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn—that sail to South Korea. These ships deliver an ultra-luxury experience with an emphasis on personalised service and gourmet dining. South Korea itineraries typically depart from Kobe or Yokohama (Tokyo), giving cruisers an opportunity to explore these exciting port cities beforehand.
• Azamara Cruises: This line features a fleet of 4, with 1 ship visiting South Korea: Azamara Pursuit. Azamara is known for its immersive cultural experiences, allowing you plenty of time to soak in the local flavours. Departures typically occur from Kobe or Tokyo, ensuring a smooth journey to South Korea.
• Silversea: A fleet of 12 includes 4 ships offering itineraries in South Korea. Silver Nova and Silver Moon highlight the line's focus on luxury, offering all-inclusive comfort for discerning travellers. Departures are commonly from Melbourne for domestic sails, and from Tokyo or Singapore for international cruises.

Top South Korean Harbours to Discover

• Busan: As the country’s second-largest city and a bustling port, Busan is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant street markets. Cruise passengers can explore Haeundae Beach, visit the stunning Beomeosa Temple, or immerse themselves in the local culture at Jagalchi Fish Market, where you can sample fresh seafood straight from the ocean!
• Cheju (Jeju Island): A popular holiday destination, Jeju Island boasts stunning volcanic landscapes and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the scenic Hallasan National Park, hike up to Mount Hallasan for breathtaking views, or enjoy local delicacies like fresh black pork BBQ. Don’t miss the picturesque beaches, perfect for a relaxed afternoon by the sea!
• Seoul: South Korea’s capital is a true blend of tradition and modernity. While docked, guests can visit iconic landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace or wander the vibrant streets of Myeongdong for shopping and street food delicacies. A guided tour through the bustling Insadong district is a must for experiencing the heart of cultural Seoul!
• Incheon: Known for its tranquil beaches and cultural sites, Incheon is a pleasant stop for cruise passengers. Don’t miss the Incheon Chinatown or the Songdo International Business District—a city built on reclaimed land and packed with cutting-edge architecture. The serene Incheon Grand Park is great for a calming stroll if time allows.
• Sokcho: Nestled near the stunning Seoraksan National Park, Sokcho offers access to beautiful nature and adventure. If you dock here, take the opportunity to hike a portion of Seoraksan for breathtaking mountain views or explore the Sokcho fish market for a taste of local seafood.

Best Times to Cruise to South Korea

When planning your trip to South Korea, consider the best time to visit. Spring (April to June) features pleasant temperatures of 10-25°C, making it perfect for exploring cherry blossoms and outdoor attractions. Summer (July to August) can get warm, reaching around 20-30°C, but it’s a lively time with many festivals. Autumn (September to November) is delightful, with temperatures ranging from 5-20°C and beautiful foliage, ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Winter (December to March) can be chilly, falling between -5 to 5°C, but it’s perfect for those seeking a unique experience and winter sports near the mountains.

Cost Overview for South Korean Cruises

A typical 1-week cruise to South Korea might cost around $1,500 to $2,500 AUD, while a 2-week adventure can range from $3,000 to $5,000 AUD. For luxury cruises, expect prices starting at about $5,000 AUD for one week and going up to $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining on the cruise is often included, but if you’re looking to taste the local cuisine ashore, expect to pay about $15-40 AUD per meal, while drinks will usually cost between $8-15 AUD.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re eyeing a cruise to South Korea, don’t overlook these fascinating alternatives:

• Japan: From Tokyo’s neon lights to the tranquility of Kyoto’s temples, Japan offers a unique mix of modernity and tradition, appealing to all sorts of travellers.
• China: With its rich history and breathtaking landscapes, cruising in China provides cultural treasures from the Great Wall to dynamic cityscapes like Shanghai.
• Taiwan: Known for its night markets and scenic landscapes, Taiwan is an adventurer’s dream, featuring stunning national parks and lively cities.
• Vietnam: With its enchanting landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich culture, Vietnam is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
• Philippines: For those craving stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, the Philippines boasts some of the most beautiful tropical islands in the world.

Embark on a cruise to explore the incredible experiences that South Korea has to offer with Cruise1st. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, the wonders await your discovery!