Private Charters, Exclusive Deck Hire & Group Cruise Bookings Across Australia
Whether you're organising a corporate function, Christmas party, milestone birthday, wedding celebration, family reunion or another special occasion, choosing the right venue is one of the most important decisions you'll make.
Australian Cruise Group makes it easy to compare and book group cruise experiences across Australia's leading cruise destinations. From large group bookings on scheduled cruises to private deck hire and exclusive vessel charters, we connect you with a wide range of cruise experiences to suit different group sizes, budgets and event styles.
With more than 40 years of experience, we've helped businesses, families and event organisers create memorable celebrations on the water. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or an event for several hundred guests, we'll help you find the option that best fits your occasion.
Why Book Through Australian Cruise Group?
Instead of contacting multiple cruise operators individually, compare a wide range of experiences through one trusted booking platform.
When you book with Australian Cruise Group, you'll enjoy:
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Access to group cruise experiences across Australia's leading destinations
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Scheduled group bookings, private deck hire and exclusive private charters
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A diverse range of vessels for small gatherings through to large-scale events
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Personalised recommendations based on your guest numbers, occasion and budget
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Transparent pricing, booking terms and payment schedules
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Dedicated support from enquiry through to confirmation
Charter Cruises for Every Occasion
Whether you're celebrating with family, entertaining clients or organising a community event, there's a cruise experience to suit your occasion.
Popular group bookings include:
Choose the Right Booking Option
Not every event requires exclusive use of a vessel. Depending on your guest numbers, budget and the experience you're looking for, you can choose from three different booking options.
| Large Group Booking |
Private Deck Hire |
Private Charter |
| Reserve multiple seats on a scheduled cruise |
Hire an exclusive deck on selected scheduled cruises |
Hire the entire vessel exclusively |
| Best for birthdays, Christmas parties, family celebrations and social groups |
Ideal for corporate events, networking functions and private celebrations |
Perfect for weddings, product launches, VIP events and large corporate functions |
| Cost-effective option |
Added privacy without chartering the entire vessel |
Complete privacy and maximum flexibility |
| Fixed cruise itinerary and inclusions |
Dedicated space with custom packages & shared onboard facilities |
Custom packages with tailored catering, entertainment, theming, décor if required |
If you're unsure which option is right for your event, we'll help you compare the available experiences.
Planning Your Event
Every event is different. The ideal cruise depends on far more than simply choosing a vessel.
When comparing options, consider:
Large Group Bookings
Large group bookings allow you to reserve multiple seats on a scheduled cruise while enjoying the same dining, sightseeing or entertainment experience as other guests onboard. This is often the most affordable option for birthdays, Christmas parties, sporting clubs, family celebrations and social groups.
Private Deck Hire
Available on select vessels, private deck hire provides your group with an exclusive function area while the remainder of the vessel continues to operate as a scheduled cruise. It's an excellent choice for businesses or private groups wanting additional privacy without hiring an entire vessel.
Private Charters
Private charters provide exclusive use of the vessel, offering the greatest flexibility for larger events and premium experiences. Depending on the vessel and destination, charter packages may include:
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Exclusive vessel hire
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Cocktail or seated dining
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Catering and beverage packages
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DJs or live entertainment
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Dance floors
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Audio-visual equipment
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Presentation facilities
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Event styling opportunities
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Branding and signage
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Dedicated event coordination
Available inclusions vary between vessels and destinations.
How Do Charters Work
1. Tell Us About Your Event
Share your preferred destination, event type, guest numbers, preferred travel dates and budget.
2. Compare Suitable Options
We'll recommend the most suitable scheduled cruises, private deck hire or charter experiences based on your requirements.
3. Select Your Preferred Cruise
Review available vessels, inclusions and pricing before confirming the option that best suits your event.
4. Finalise Your Booking
Once confirmed, we'll guide you through payment requirements, guest numbers and any final event arrangements.
5. Get Ready To Cruise
Time to get on the water and enjoy your private charter
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Australian Cruise Group accommodate large group bookings?
Yes. Australian Cruise Group can arrange everything from small social gatherings to large corporate functions across a wide range of scheduled cruises and charter vessels. Suitable options vary by destination and vessel, and we'll recommend the best options based on your group size and event requirements.
What's the difference between a large group booking, private deck hire and a private charter?
A large group booking reserves multiple seats on a scheduled cruise, allowing your group to enjoy the experience alongside other guests. Private deck hire provides exclusive use of a dedicated deck or function space on selected vessels while sharing the cruise with other passengers. A private charter gives your group exclusive use of the entire vessel, offering the greatest flexibility and privacy.
Which booking option is best for my event?
The right option depends on your guest numbers, budget and the type of event you're planning. Large group bookings are ideal for social celebrations and smaller corporate groups, while private deck hire offers added privacy for business events and special occasions. Private charters are best suited to weddings, major celebrations, VIP events and large corporate functions.
Which destinations offer group bookings and private charters?
Australian Cruise Group offers group bookings, private deck hire and private charter experiences across many Australian destinations, including Sydney Harbour, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Hobart, Cairns, Port Douglas, the Whitsundays, Sunshine Coast, Port Stephens, Gordon River (Strahan), Perth and Broome. Available experiences vary by destination and operator.
What group sizes can you accommodate?
Group sizes vary depending on the vessel and destination. We can assist with everything from small celebrations to large events involving several hundred guests. If you have a specific group size in mind, we'll recommend the most suitable options available.
Can I book a cruise for a birthday, wedding or corporate event?
Absolutely. Our cruise experiences are popular for corporate functions, Christmas parties, milestone birthdays, weddings, engagement celebrations, anniversaries, family reunions, charity events, school groups and many other special occasions.
Are food and drinks included?
Many cruises include meals, beverage packages or both, while others offer these as optional upgrades. Inclusions vary between vessels and destinations, and full details are provided before you confirm your booking.
Can I customise a private charter?
Many private charter operators offer flexible catering, beverage packages, entertainment, styling, branding opportunities and event coordination. Customisation options vary depending on the vessel and destination.
Can dietary requirements and accessibility needs be accommodated?
Many cruise operators can cater for common dietary requirements and provide accessibility options when advised in advance. As facilities vary between vessels, we'll help identify the most suitable cruise for your group's needs.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking early is recommended, particularly for Christmas parties, school holidays, long weekends, major events and peak travel periods. Early booking gives you the best chance of securing your preferred vessel, date and departure time.
Can I make changes to my booking after it's confirmed?
Changes such as guest numbers or catering selections may be possible, depending on the operator's terms and how close you are to the cruise date. Contact us as soon as possible if you need to make changes, and we'll advise what options are available.
Why book through Australian Cruise Group instead of contacting operators directly?
Australian Cruise Group makes it easy to compare a wide range of cruise experiences across multiple Australian destinations through one enquiry. Rather than contacting individual operators separately, you can compare vessels, booking options and inclusions, making it simpler to find the right cruise for your group, budget and occasion.