Australia’s horror season of wild bushfires has surprisingly (or perhaps not) led to a small boom in Australia-based cruises. While many overseas visitors have canceled trips and cruises, residents of smoke or fire-impacted areas have turned to the sea to get at least a few days of fresh air.
With some Australian cities, including Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney showing up as the world’s worst air quality, those who can afford it have made “fresh air cruises” a thing. Some of those booking trips may have had vacation plans for other parts of Australia and canceled them, but the increase is significant.
P&O Cruises and Royal Caribbean, which both operate ships from Australia, are offering special rates and onboard recognition to firefighters who are getting a rest break from the fires.
