Portland, Australia

Portland, Australia Port Guide

Portland, Australia Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to Portland, Victoria's oldest European settlement and a charming gateway along Australia's rugged southwest coast.

Frequently visited by cruise lines like Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises Australia, and Holland America Line, this scenic maritime destination offers visitors rich historical heritage and astounding coastal views.

Passengers are drawn to its thriving fur seal colonies, historic cable tram, and easy access to natural wonderlands like Cape Bridgewater.


Key Portland, Australia Port Information

Top Attractions & Excursions

A top highlight for visitors is the Portland Cable Tram, which takes passengers on a nostalgic journey along the coastline, stopping at key historical sites and scenic lookouts.

Nature enthusiasts should not miss Cape Bridgewater, located about 20 minutes from port, home to a large breeding colony of Australian fur seals and impressive blowholes.

History buffs can explore the Portland Maritime Discovery Centre, which showcases the region's rich whaling and maritime heritage, including a complete sperm whale skeleton.

Another popular spot is the historic Cape Nelson Lighthouse, situated 15 minutes away, offering dramatic cliffside views across the Southern Ocean.

Last updated on August 29, 2026

Nearby Cities & Attractions

Just a 20-minute drive (20 km) west of the port lies Cape Bridgewater, famous for its sweeping sandy bay, volcanic cliff walks, and seals.

The picturesque seaside village of Port Fairy is located approximately 50 minutes (75 km) east, offering heritage cottages, boutique shopping, and birdwatching on Griffiths Island.

Further inland, the volcanic landscape of Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve is a 60-minute drive away, perfect for spotting koalas, kangaroos, and emus in their natural habitat.

Last updated on August 29, 2026

Port Location

Cruise ships visiting Portland generally dock at the commercial berth at the Port of Portland or anchor in Portland Bay and tender passengers ashore to the local marina berth.

The port facilities are located less than two kilometers from the town center, making it easily accessible for arriving visitors.

Local volunteer ambassadors often greet arriving ships, and short shuttle buses or quick walks bring guests directly to the shops and attractions along Bentinck Street.

Last updated on August 29, 2026

Local Currency

The official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD).

Foreign currencies like US Dollars or Euros are not accepted in local stores, but credit and debit cards are universally accepted throughout shops, cafes, and attractions.

ATMs are conveniently located along Percy Street and Bentinck Street in the city center if cash is required for small purchases or local markets.

Last updated on August 29, 2026

Safety Considerations

Portland is a very safe and friendly destination for cruise passengers to explore independently.

Standard travel safety precautions apply, such as keeping personal belongings secure and staying aware of your surroundings.

When walking along rugged coastal trails like the Great South West Walk, remain on marked paths and keep well clear of steep cliff edges and ocean blowholes.

Last updated on August 29, 2026

Weather & Climate

Portland experiences a temperate maritime climate, with the main cruise season spanning the warmer months between October and April.

Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F), though cool ocean breezes are common.

Layered clothing, a light windproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection including sunscreen and a hat are highly recommended.

Last updated on August 29, 2026

Getting Around

The town center and foreshore areas are compact and easily walkable from the tender landing or shuttle drop-off point.

The scenic Portland Cable Tram serves as both a delightful attraction and an easy mode of transport between major coastal sights.

Taxis are available but limited, so joining an organized shore excursion like a Portland Coastal Sightseeing Tour or regional tour operator is recommended for trips to Cape Nelson Lighthouse or Cape Bridgewater.

Last updated on August 29, 2026

Shopping

The main retail district is centered around Bentinck Street and Percy Street, offering a relaxed shopping experience with local boutiques and cafes.

Popular souvenirs include locally crafted wool garments, regional wines, artisanal food products, and indigenous artwork.

Bargaining is not customary in Australia, and prices listed in retail shops and markets are fixed.

Last updated on August 29, 2026

Shore Excursions & Tours

The Real Portland Tour: City and 3 Lighthouses Historical Tour with a Real Local

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Join a local guide born and raised in Portland for an authentic 1-hour and 45-minute tour of the city’s history and three lighthouses. This insider’s experience visits both popular landmarks and hidden places other tours miss while covering rich history and current happenings.

Portland, Maine: Hidden Histories Guided Walking Tour

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Meet the diverse people of all backgrounds whose wit and grit shaped Maine's largest city on this walk across brick sidewalks with a locally-raised guide. You will hear extraordinary, surprising stories omitted from history books that broaden your perspective of Portland and Maine’s past and potential.

Portland, Maine: Black History Guided Walking Tour

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Trace the steps of Black Portlanders who moved the city, state, and country toward the ideals of freedom and equality through labor, skill, and insight. Meet the Black Yankees who founded Maine communities, overturned statewide slavery, drove maritime industries, and gained political influence.

Private Sunset Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks

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Leave the crowds behind for a private 2-hour vintage lobster boat charter through Casco Bay’s islands to see lighthouses, 19th-century forts, and a breathtaking Maine sunset. Perfect for families, this sightseeing experience showcases the state's most iconic coastal sights and stunning coastline.

Portland Explorer | Maine History, Culture, & 3 Lighthouses Tour

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Skip the city for a dedicated coastal tour of three iconic Maine lighthouses to admire their architecture and learn about their rich history. Though most are not open for internal tours, you will get up-close views and see the stunning scenic surroundings.

A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland

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This 2-hour Walk Through Time tour from Commercial Street explores Portland's history since 1632, covering railroads, fires, wars, poets, and Hollywood producers. Visit the Old Port, downtown, and waterfront to see landmarks like the lobster statue and historic homes.

Lighthouse Bicycle Tour from South Portland with 4 Lighthouses

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This 3-hour tour departs at 11:00 am and follows the scenic South Portland Greenbelt Pathway to Bug Light, Spring Point Ledge Light near Fort Preble, and Willard Beach. The journey concludes with a visit to the famous Portland lighthouse.

Private Island Fort Tour in Casco Bay: Boat Cruise & Island Tour

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Board the Elizabeth Grace for an exclusive experience viewing the early 19th-century stone fortresses in Portland Harbor. These imposing structures are captivating reminders of coastal defense that are otherwise difficult for visitors to access.

Private Sightseeing Charter on a Vintage Lobster Boat with Drinks

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This 100% private 2-hour vintage lobster boat charter departs from the Old Port to view four iconic lighthouses, historic forts, and the coastline of Casco Bay. Perfect for families and small groups, this private experience allows you to see the sights while avoiding the crowds.

Casco Bay Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour

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Explore Casco Bay on a four-hour small-group sea kayak tour with a licensed Maine Guide that includes a basic lesson and an island snack break. You will island-hop to look for seals and seabirds while enjoying views of lighthouses, 19th-century forts, and other landmarks.

Sunset Lighthouse Cruise Along Casco Bay

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This 1.5-hour sunset cruise through Casco Bay aboard the 39-foot classic boat Ruth features four iconic lighthouses, historic forts, seals, and seabirds. Guests are invited to unwind along the breathtaking coastline while bringing their own beer, wine, and meals.

Portland's Best Craft Beverages Bus Tour

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Known for having the most breweries per capita, Portland is also seeing growth in local spirits and wine, particularly in neighborhoods like East Bayside. This craft beverage scene caters to every taste with small-batch offerings such as those from Three of Strong.

Casco Bay Morning Windjammer Sail

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Sail Casco Bay for two hours on a morning Windjammer cruise to see lighthouses, seals, seabirds, and the rugged coastline. This non-narrated tour is open to all ages from nine to 99, and the crew is available to answer any questions.

Private Portland to Acadia & Bar Harbor Experience

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Experience the beauty and history of the Acadia and Bar Harbor area on this full-day, 10-to-12-hour adventure from Portland. The trip includes three hours of travel each way, broken up by scenic photo stops to see rugged shorelines, crashing waves, and sweeping overlooks.

Paint Portland, Maine: Small Group Outdoor Painting Experience

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Immerse yourself in Maine's natural beauty by hiking to a scenic location and capturing the landscape in a painting. This all-levels class welcomes both beginners and experienced painters, and no prior experience is necessary.

Sea Kayak to an Island Tour in Casco Bay

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Join a Master Maine Guide for a 3-hour morning kayak tour of Northwest Casco Bay, starting with land-based basics and launching from Mere Point in Brunswick. The trip features a photo op at the end of the point, island exploring with snacks, and a return via a different route.

Vintage Fire Truck Sightseeing Tour of Portland Maine

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Relive Portland’s colorful history from a local perspective on this 50-minute family-friendly vintage fire engine tour. A knowledgeable guide shares stories and a multimedia experience of historic images while visiting lighthouses, Civil War forts, city parks, and buildings.

Portland Bicycle Tour with 5 Lighthouses and XL Lobster Roll

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Discover Portland and Casco Bay on a five-lighthouse bicycle tour, though groups generally see four: Bug Light, Spring Point, Portland Head Light, and Ram Island Ledge. This trip explores the coast and history and includes lunch from the award-winning Bite into Maine food truck.

Sunset Sea Kayak Tour on Casco Bay

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Enjoy a leisurely two-hour sunset paddle from East End Beach into the islands of Casco Bay when the sky is colorful and the seas are calm. This tour offers panoramic views of the city as you paddle along the waterfront during the best time of day.

Morning Lighthouse Cruise Along the Coast of Portland Maine

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Cruise the tranquil waters of Casco Bay for 1.5 hours aboard Ruth, a 39-foot classic picnic-style boat, to see lighthouses, forts, seals, and seabirds. This all-ages adventure invites guests to relax with their own favorite drinks and meals while exploring the rugged coastline.

Visiting Portland, Australia Cruise Deals

150 Night Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale cruise
January 11, 2028
Crystal Symphony
S M L XL
Fort Lauderdale Cozumel Belize City Santo Tomas de Castilla Roatan Puerto Limon Cartagena, Colombia Colon Manta Guayaquil Salaverry Lima Easter Island Pitcairn Island Fakarava Rangiroa Huahine Papeete Moorea Raiatea Bora Bora Pago Pago Suva Lautoka Mystery Island Lifou Noumea Ile des Pins Bay of Islands Auckland Napier Wellington Melbourne Portland, Australia Adelaide Kangaroo Island Albany Perth Bali Puerto Princesa Boracay Manila Nha Trang Singapore Kuala Lumpur Penang Phuket Port Blair Hambantota Colombo Cochin Mangalore Goa Mumbai Khasab Abu Dhabi Dubai Fujairah Muscat Salalah Jeddah Aqaba Luxor Alexandria Chania Olympia Syracuse Valletta Tunis Trapani Lipari Sorrento Rome Barcelona Alicante Motril Ponta Delgada Horta King's Wharf Fort Lauderdale
$72,500
$483 per day
Outside
136 Night Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona cruise
January 11, 2028
Crystal Symphony
S M L XL
Fort Lauderdale Cozumel Belize City Santo Tomas de Castilla Roatan Puerto Limon Cartagena, Colombia Colon Manta Guayaquil Salaverry Lima Easter Island Pitcairn Island Fakarava Rangiroa Huahine Papeete Moorea Raiatea Bora Bora Pago Pago Suva Lautoka Mystery Island Lifou Noumea Ile des Pins Bay of Islands Auckland Napier Wellington Melbourne Portland, Australia Adelaide Kangaroo Island Albany Perth Bali Puerto Princesa Boracay Manila Nha Trang Singapore Kuala Lumpur Penang Phuket Port Blair Hambantota Colombo Cochin Mangalore Goa Mumbai Khasab Abu Dhabi Dubai Fujairah Muscat Salalah Jeddah Aqaba Luxor Alexandria Chania Olympia Syracuse Valletta Tunis Trapani Lipari Sorrento Rome Barcelona
$69,000
$507 per day
Outside
NEW THIS WEEK
13 Night Sydney, Australia to Perth cruise
March 7, 2029
Seabourn Quest
S M L XL
Sydney, Australia Sydney, Australia Burnie Melbourne Portland, Australia Robe Adelaide Kangaroo Island Busselton Perth
$7,289
$561 per day
Outside
85 Night Fort Lauderdale to Singapore cruise
January 11, 2028
Crystal Symphony
S M L XL
Fort Lauderdale Cozumel Belize City Santo Tomas de Castilla Roatan Puerto Limon Cartagena, Colombia Colon Manta Guayaquil Salaverry Lima Easter Island Pitcairn Island Fakarava Rangiroa Huahine Papeete Moorea Raiatea Bora Bora Pago Pago Suva Lautoka Mystery Island Lifou Noumea Ile des Pins Bay of Islands Auckland Napier Wellington Melbourne Portland, Australia Adelaide Kangaroo Island Albany Perth Bali Puerto Princesa Boracay Manila Nha Trang Singapore Singapore
$47,800
$562 per day
Outside
13 Night Melbourne to Bali cruise
March 10, 2028
Crystal Symphony
S M L XL
Melbourne Portland, Australia Adelaide Kangaroo Island Albany Perth Bali Bali
$9,300
$715 per day
Outside

Upcoming Cruises to Portland, Australia Cruise Deals

150 Night Fort Lauderdale to Fort Lauderdale cruise
January 11, 2028
Crystal Symphony
S M L XL
Fort Lauderdale Cozumel Belize City Santo Tomas de Castilla Roatan Puerto Limon Cartagena, Colombia Colon Manta Guayaquil Salaverry Lima Easter Island Pitcairn Island Fakarava Rangiroa Huahine Papeete Moorea Raiatea Bora Bora Pago Pago Suva Lautoka Mystery Island Lifou Noumea Ile des Pins Bay of Islands Auckland Napier Wellington Melbourne Portland, Australia Adelaide Kangaroo Island Albany Perth Bali Puerto Princesa Boracay Manila Nha Trang Singapore Kuala Lumpur Penang Phuket Port Blair Hambantota Colombo Cochin Mangalore Goa Mumbai Khasab Abu Dhabi Dubai Fujairah Muscat Salalah Jeddah Aqaba Luxor Alexandria Chania Olympia Syracuse Valletta Tunis Trapani Lipari Sorrento Rome Barcelona Alicante Motril Ponta Delgada Horta King's Wharf Fort Lauderdale
$72,500
$483 per day
Outside
136 Night Fort Lauderdale to Barcelona cruise
January 11, 2028
Crystal Symphony
S M L XL
Fort Lauderdale Cozumel Belize City Santo Tomas de Castilla Roatan Puerto Limon Cartagena, Colombia Colon Manta Guayaquil Salaverry Lima Easter Island Pitcairn Island Fakarava Rangiroa Huahine Papeete Moorea Raiatea Bora Bora Pago Pago Suva Lautoka Mystery Island Lifou Noumea Ile des Pins Bay of Islands Auckland Napier Wellington Melbourne Portland, Australia Adelaide Kangaroo Island Albany Perth Bali Puerto Princesa Boracay Manila Nha Trang Singapore Kuala Lumpur Penang Phuket Port Blair Hambantota Colombo Cochin Mangalore Goa Mumbai Khasab Abu Dhabi Dubai Fujairah Muscat Salalah Jeddah Aqaba Luxor Alexandria Chania Olympia Syracuse Valletta Tunis Trapani Lipari Sorrento Rome Barcelona
$69,000
$507 per day
Outside
NEW THIS WEEK
13 Night Sydney, Australia to Perth cruise
March 7, 2029
Seabourn Quest
S M L XL
Sydney, Australia Sydney, Australia Burnie Melbourne Portland, Australia Robe Adelaide Kangaroo Island Busselton Perth
$7,289
$561 per day
Outside
85 Night Fort Lauderdale to Singapore cruise
January 11, 2028
Crystal Symphony
S M L XL
Fort Lauderdale Cozumel Belize City Santo Tomas de Castilla Roatan Puerto Limon Cartagena, Colombia Colon Manta Guayaquil Salaverry Lima Easter Island Pitcairn Island Fakarava Rangiroa Huahine Papeete Moorea Raiatea Bora Bora Pago Pago Suva Lautoka Mystery Island Lifou Noumea Ile des Pins Bay of Islands Auckland Napier Wellington Melbourne Portland, Australia Adelaide Kangaroo Island Albany Perth Bali Puerto Princesa Boracay Manila Nha Trang Singapore Singapore
$47,800
$562 per day
Outside
13 Night Melbourne to Bali cruise
March 10, 2028
Crystal Symphony
S M L XL
Melbourne Portland, Australia Adelaide Kangaroo Island Albany Perth Bali Bali
$9,300
$715 per day
Outside

Ships in Port Schedule

Map of Portland, Australia port area
Portland, Australia port location

No ships scheduled in port today.

Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting Portland, Australia

Cruises visiting Portland, Australia during the the peak season of spring are much more expensive than the the low season of winter. On average Portland, Australia is rather expensive as a port of call. Look at the diagram below for the monthly average cost per day.

Jan
$518
Feb
Mar
$638
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

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