A cruise is one of the best ways to explore Asia - here's why

Just don't forget to follow these insider tips.

Cruising avoids the headache of logistics in a continent that can seem overwhelming. Instead of planning a complicated itinerary of flights, train journeys or driving, a cruise allows travellers to relax, enjoy the views and simply step off the ship at each destination, without packing and unpacking at each stop.

Japan, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines are the most common countries visited by ocean. By river, it's Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, China and India.

The most common departure ports are Singapore, Hong Kong and Bali, with cruises visiting neighbouring countries over one or two weeks. To immerse in one country, Japan is the best option to sail around its islands and cities. Some cruises depart from Australia, but more days are spent at sea.

Mekong River cruises travel between Vietnam and Cambodia, with some extending to Laos, offering a mix of big cities and villages that are rich in local culture, traditions and ancient temples. Another option is a Yangtze River cruise in China, renowned for its dramatic landscapes such as the Three Gorges. In India, voyage down the sacred Ganges or experience the wildlife of the Brahmaputra River.

The shortest itineraries typically last three to four days. Longer options can be 14 days or more. The longest is Antara Ganga Vilas' 50-night epic river cruise from India's Varanasi to Dibrugarh via Dhaka, Bangladesh.

The mildest climate in most regions is generally during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). This can vary, depending on the destinations and your preferences for weather and crowds.

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Australians often prefer familiar fleets of large ships such as Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, Cunard or MSC Cruises. Luxury travellers can consider Scenic, Seabourn, Silversea, Ponant, Crystal, Azamara, Oceania or Regent Seven Seas Cruises. For river cruises, check out Viking, Uniworld, APT, Scenic, Travelmarvel, Emerald Cruises, Avalon Waterways, Wendy Wu Tours or Helen Wong's Tours. Local specialists such as Pandaw also cater to international passengers. Adventure-focused lines include Coral Expeditions, Heritage Expeditions, Aqua Expeditions and National Geographic in collaboration with Lindblad Expeditions.

Yes, bilingual crewmembers speak fluent English on these major cruise lines.

Cruise essentials in Asia include a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and lightweight clothing for warm weather, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear for beach destinations, and modest clothing that covers legs and shoulders for visiting temples or conservative areas. Don't forget any necessary medications as these can be difficult to obtain in some countries.

Visa requirements depend on the countries included on your itinerary. Many Asian countries offer visa-free entry or visas on arrival for Australian cruise passengers, but it's always crucial to check several weeks before departure.