An Australia and New Zealand cruise is one of the most special ways to discover some of the world's most impressive natural landscapes, modern cities, rich cultures, and unique wildlife in a single journey. From Sydney's iconic harbour to the fjords of New Zealand, from the colourful corals of the Great Barrier Reef to the wilderness of Tasmania, cruise itineraries bring together some of the most remarkable destinations in the South Pacific. Australia and New Zealand cruise itineraries feature important ports such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns, Hobart, Auckland, Wellington, Tauranga, Dunedin, and the Bay of Islands, as well as natural wonders such as the Great Barrier Reef, Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and Dusky Sound. Different cruise companies offer a variety of itinerary options, from short Australia cruises to longer routes combining both countries and programmes extending to the islands of the South Pacific. Why Choose an Australia and New Zealand Cruise? Although Australia and New Zealand are geographically close to each other, they offer very different travel experiences. Australia stands out with its koalas, kangaroos, coral reefs, tropical coastlines, wine regions, and cosmopolitan cities, while New Zealand is known for its mountains, fjords, volcanic regions, Māori culture, and spectacular natural landscapes. Cruise travel provides an opportunity to bring different ports together in a single holiday for those who want to explore these two countries in one trip. On some Australia and New Zealand itineraries, travellers can sail between Auckland and Sydney while visiting destinations such as Dunedin, Christchurch, Wellington, and Milford Sound in New Zealand. Sydney: An Iconic Starting Point for Australia Cruises Sydney is one of the most recognised departure and arrival points for Australia and New Zealand cruises. Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour, and the Harbour Bridge are among the city's best-known landmarks, while seeing the cityscape from a cruise ship sailing into or out of the harbour can be one of the highlights of the journey. Sydney is also an excellent destination for travellers who want to spend a few days before or after their cruise, thanks to its city culture, restaurants, beaches, and shopping opportunities. Great Barrier Reef: Discover Australia's Underwater World When it comes to Australia cruises, one of the most important natural destinations is the Great Barrier Reef. Ports such as Cairns, Port Douglas, and Airlie Beach along the Queensland coast are important gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world's largest coral reef systems. Here, it is possible to observe marine life such as colourful corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles, and to explore the area through activities such as snorkelling, diving, and various shore excursions. The Great Barrier Reef stands out as one of the most remarkable natural attractions of an Australia and New Zealand cruise experience, while Cairns and Airlie Beach are among the important gateways for exploring the reef. Cairns and Port Douglas: Tropical North Queensland Cairns is an important port for cruise passengers who want to explore tropical northern Australia. The city offers access not only to the Great Barrier Reef but also to rainforests and the tropical coastline of Queensland. Port Douglas is another important port that combines Great Barrier Reef experiences with tropical nature. Some Australia cruise itineraries may combine destinations such as Cairns, Port Douglas, and Airlie Beach within the same journey. Brisbane: City Life and the Queensland Experience Brisbane is an important cruise port that combines modern city life with Australia's natural beauty. In addition to cultural and gastronomic experiences in the city centre, shore excursions to different parts of Queensland allow Brisbane to appeal to travellers who want to experience both the city and nature during their Australia cruise. Tasmania and Hobart: Following the Trail of the Wilderness Tasmania, located in southern Australia, stands out for travellers who want to discover a different side of Australia and New Zealand cruise itineraries. Hobart's historic waterfront area, restaurants, cafés, museums, and local gastronomy attract visitors. Outside the city, Tasmania's mountainous landscapes and natural scenery can be explored. Tasmania's natural beauty and historical heritage can be discovered through different shore excursions. Melbourne: Culture, Gastronomy, and City Life Melbourne is one of Australia's most distinctive cities, known for its art, culture, coffee culture, and gastronomy. Cruise passengers can visit attractions such as Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, and the National Gallery of Victoria in the city centre, while experiencing Melbourne's multicultural gastronomic atmosphere in its restaurants and cafés. Melbourne's gastronomic culture and diverse cuisines are among the highlights of the city's cruise experience. Auckland: The Gateway to New Zealand Auckland is one of the important departure and arrival points for New Zealand cruise itineraries. Combining modern city life with Māori culture, Auckland is an ideal starting point for exploring New Zealand's North Island. Around the city, travellers can enjoy harbour views, restaurants, and cultural experiences, as well as access to natural attractions. Auckland is one of the highlights of Australia and New Zealand cruise itineraries and is also an important destination in the region. Bay of Islands: History, Sea, and Nature The Bay of Islands in northern New Zealand is a notable stop on cruise itineraries, with its sheltered bays, islands, beaches, and history. The region offers a different experience for travellers who want to explore natural beauty, marine life, and the early history of New Zealand. Tauranga: Volcanic Landscapes and Geothermal Regions Tauranga, located on New Zealand's North Island, stands out for its natural beauty and the geothermal regions surrounding it. From Tauranga, visitors can explore geysers and hot springs, while the region is an important stop for cruise passengers who want to experience New Zealand's volcanic geography up close. Wellington: Where Culture and Nature Meet Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, combines urban life with dramatic natural landscapes. Museums, cultural centres, restaurants, and the waterfront area are important parts of the city experience. The hills and coastal scenery surrounding the city are among the features that distinguish Wellington from other New Zealand ports. Dunedin and Christchurch: New Zealand's South Island Dunedin and Christchurch are important destinations that can be included in the itineraries of cruise passengers who want to explore New Zealand's South Island. Dunedin stands out with its Scottish-influenced architecture and cultural atmosphere, while Christchurch is an important gateway to the natural beauty of the South Island. Both cities are included in some Australia and New Zealand cruise itineraries. Milford Sound: New Zealand's Iconic Fjords One of the most impressive parts of a New Zealand cruise experience is sailing through the fjords of the South Island. Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most famous natural landscapes, with its steep cliffs, waterfalls, and mountains rising from the sea. Depending on the itinerary, cruises may also include Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound. On some Australia and New Zealand cruise programmes, Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and Dusky Sound are among the featured destinations. Australia and New Zealand Cruise Itineraries Australia and New Zealand cruise programmes can vary considerably depending on the length of the journey and the ship's route. Shorter journeys may explore Sydney or selected Australian ports, while more comprehensive programmes can combine Australia and New Zealand within the same itinerary. Some routes continue into the South Pacific, reaching island destinations such as Fiji, Samoa, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu. For example, some programmes offer 10- or 11-night journeys between Auckland and Sydney, as well as itineraries that include numerous New Zealand ports, while some Sydney-based itineraries explore New Zealand more extensively. Australia and New Zealand can also be combined with South Pacific islands within the same cruise programme. Cruise Routes Extending into the South Pacific An Australia and New Zealand cruise holiday does not necessarily have to be limited to these two countries. Some itineraries depart from Australia or New Zealand and continue towards South Pacific destinations such as Fiji, Samoa, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia. On these routes, tropical islands, white-sand beaches, and turquoise lagoons add a different atmosphere to the city and nature experiences of Australia and New Zealand. Best Time for an Australia and New Zealand Cruise Australia and New Zealand are located in the Southern Hemisphere, so their seasons are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. In general, the October-April period is highlighted for Australia and New Zealand cruises, while December-March is particularly notable for New Zealand because of longer days and summer conditions. However, northern Australia has a tropical climate, while the south has a more temperate climate. Therefore, it is important to consider the weather conditions of the regions covered by the selected cruise itinerary. What Can You See on an Australia and New Zealand Cruise? Depending on the itinerary, an Australia and New Zealand cruise can include: Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Great Barrier Reef Cairns and Port Douglas Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays Brisbane Melbourne Hobart and Tasmania Auckland Bay of Islands Tauranga Wellington Dunedin Christchurch Milford Sound Doubtful Sound Dusky Sound Fiji Samoa Vanuatu New Caledonia Not all of these destinations are included in every cruise programme. The destinations visited may vary depending on the itinerary, ship, and travel dates. Luxury Cruises in Australia and New Zealand Australia and New Zealand offer cruise options for different travel styles. Large ships can feature numerous restaurants, entertainment areas, and activities, while luxury cruise options may focus on a more peaceful atmosphere, suite accommodation, and destination-focused experiences. Luxury cruise ships may offer suite accommodation, a variety of dining options, spa facilities, observation areas, and destination-focused experiences. Longer cruise programmes visiting Australia as part of World Voyage itineraries also provide opportunities to explore the region as part of an extended journey. Discover the Other Side of the World with an Australia and New Zealand Cruise An Australia and New Zealand cruise offers an extraordinary variety of experiences, from city life to wilderness, coral reefs to high mountains and fjords. From Sydney's iconic skyline and the underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef to the natural beauty of Tasmania, the Māori culture of Auckland, and the impressive fjords of Milford Sound, this journey provides an opportunity to discover the different sides of Oceania in a single cruise holiday. Whether you are planning a short cruise exploring Australia's east coast, an extensive Australia and New Zealand cruise between Sydney and Auckland, or a longer journey that also includes the islands of the South Pacific, considering the ports, travel duration, season, and destinations you want to see together can help you create the ideal cruise experience. Frequently Asked Questions About Australia and New Zealand Cruises Where do Australia and New Zealand cruises depart from? Depending on the itinerary, Sydney and Auckland are among the important departure and arrival points. Some programmes may also include Melbourne, Brisbane, or other Australian ports. Which cities are visited on an Australia and New Zealand cruise? Depending on the route and cruise company, cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns, Hobart, Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington, Dunedin, and Christchurch may be visited. Can you see the Great Barrier Reef on a cruise? Yes. Ports such as Cairns, Port Douglas, and Airlie Beach are important cruise destinations used to access the Great Barrier Reef. However, the way the reef is visited and the available shore excursion options vary depending on the cruise programme. Is Milford Sound included in New Zealand cruise itineraries? Some Australia and New Zealand cruise programmes include Milford Sound. Depending on the itinerary, Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound may also be included. What are the best months for an Australia and New Zealand cruise? The October-April period is generally highlighted, while December-March is particularly noted for New Zealand because of its summer conditions. However, the best time depends on the selected itinerary and the regions being visited. Can Australia and New Zealand be visited on the same cruise? Yes. Cruise companies offer a variety of programmes that combine the two countries within the same itinerary. Routes travelling between Sydney and Auckland or Auckland and Sydney are examples of these itineraries.
Show MoreSure, there are pros and cons to all types of travel, but cruising has become a popular option for a number of reasons: With so much included in the price - like meals, onboard performances and more - cruising offers tons of bang for your buck. A variety of onboard and onshore activities make cruising fun for everyone from spa-lovers to adventure-seekers to sun worshipers. Traveling from port to port is a snap, no need to worry about directions or unpacking. You'll wake up in an amazing new place, refreshed and ready to explore.
Safety and security are the highest priorities for cruise companies.All cruise ships are designed and operated in compliance with the strict requirements of the International Maritime Organization, the local authorities that mandates global standards for the safety and operation of cruise ships through adoption of treaties, regulations and resolutions, codified in the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention. Safety-related regulations and requirements are rigorous – and ships often go substantially above and beyond what is required, for example carrying backup mechanical, navigational and safety provisions. Ships crews undertake extensive training, certification, drills and scenarios for emergency situations, including the evacuation of a ship. All cruise ships have lifeboats, life rafts and life preservers for every person on board as well as additional capacity.
Almost all cruise ships have laundry facilities and a great many provide dry-cleaning services. There is, however, an additional charge for professional laundry and dry-cleaning services.
There are no basic differences between the ships.Each ship offers a unique variety of activities, amenities and dining options.
No - in fact, due to the special operating environment that regulates the maritime sector, many products (alcohol, tobacco, etc.) can be sold duty free, just like in airports, so you can enjoy a discount of up to 40% off usual retail prices on land.
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Every passenger must make sure he has the identity document, valid for travel, required for the selected cruise. Otherwise the passenger will not be allowed to embark ship. In this case, a refund for the cruise ticket will not be authorised.
If you're worried that you'll be bored on a cruise ship, banish that idea right away. Cruise ships schedule so many activities that a day at sea can be almost as much fun (and as exhausting) as a full day of sightseeing. From cooking classes to rock-climbing, trivia contests to line-dancing, wine-tasting to Wii-playing, there's truly something for everyone. Want to lie in the sun or take a dip in the pool? No problem. Want to spend time shopping for souvenirs, indulging in a massage or gambling in the casino? You can do it. Want to boogie board, drive a racecar, ice skate or learn trapeze?Regardless of your activity levels and preferences, you can't help but find a way to keep yourself entertained on a cruise ship. Here's our breakdown of the types of programs and amenities you're likely to find to keep you busy and happy during your time onboard. How do you find out what's going on each day? A daily newsletter is delivered to your cabin each evening. One will also be waiting for you when you arrive. In it, you'll find the schedule for the next day's activities and entertainment offerings, as well as opening hours for the spa, restaurants, onboard shops and bars. You'll even find listings for movies on your in-cabin TV, information on scheduled ports of call, debarkation and embarkation information, and sunrise and sunset times. Children registered with the onboard kids' club (see below) will often receive their own daily schedules of age-appropriate activities, as well.
Cruising is a chance to indulge in fine food, delicious dinners and tasty, all-inclusive menus in onboard elegant restaurants serving international cuisine.If you have special dietary requirements chefs onboard can accommodate it/them with pleasure .During the meals tea,coffee and tab water are free of charge and some of the cruises offer free soft drinks.You can call room service 24 Hours but some cruise companies ask additional charge for certain times (after midnight).
We group onboard accommodations into four categories: Interior , Oceanview , Balcony , Suite/Deluxe All of the staterooms accommodations are designed to be comfortable places you can kick back and relax in after a day of adventure. All staterooms and suites vary by ship, but every room offers a television, telephone, private bath, shower, vanity and a hair-dryer. And depending on your stateroom/suite category, you're accommodations many include other amenities such as bathrobes, sitting areas, even a whirlpool tub!
Staterooms and suites vary by ship, but every room offers a television, telephone, private bath, shower, dressing table and a hair dryer. And, like a fine hotel, all staterooms provide soap, shampoo and conditioner.
For most of the cruise companies English is the main language onboard but some of the cruise companies use Spanish,German and French.
Generally, you will be allowed to board two or three hours before the ship sails. Keep in mind that you must be on the ship at least one hour before departure, and the gangway will be pulled thirty minutes before sailing.Upon completion of check-in, you will receive a guest identification card. This card will serve as your identification on-board. It will also serve as your identification for security procedures when embarking and disembarking the ship and when making purchases on board.As you walk up the gangway, a member of the cruise staff will welcome you aboard. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin shortly after it arrives at the ship. You carry nothing but your hand luggage. Once you are on board you are free to explore the ship. Refreshments are available during embarkation and most cruise lines offer a nice buffet lunch (depending on the departure time).
First and foremost, dress for comfort. Daily life aboard ship and in ports of call is laid-back and casual. You are encouraged to wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable: sportswear, shorts, slacks, sundresses and so on. Warmer temperatures call for clothing made of lightweight, breathable fabrics. For cooler temperatures we suggest casual clothes that can be layered easily. On some days you may need a raincoat and waterproof hat or umbrella. Gloves are a good idea as well. Footwear should include comfortable walking shoes for visits ashore and sandals or rubber-soled shoes for strolling on deck. In the evening, ships vary as to dress. There are three types of "evenings" on board - casual, smart casual and formal. On casual nights, sport shirts and slacks are suggested for men; sundresses or pants for women. On smart casual nights, dresses and pantsuits for women; jackets and ties for men. For formal nights, women should wear cocktail dresses; men should wear suits and ties or tuxedos (optional). But don't buy a tuxedo just for the trip. If you do want to dress to the nines, many ships offer tuxedo rental services. Even on the most formal of ships, a dark suit and tie are fine for the dressiest occasions. Generally, three and four-night cruises consist of one formal night and two or three casual nights. Seven-night cruises include two formal nights, one smart casual night and four casual nights. Ten, 11 and 12-night cruises consist of two formal nights, three smart casual; all other nights are casual. 14 & 15 night cruises usually have three formal nights, four semi-formal nights and the remainder are casual. Again, these are guidelines and your evenings attire is left up to your discretion. In addition, most cruise lines offer alternative casual dining for anyone who may prefer not to dine in the main restaurant.
All cruise lines offer extensive shore excursion programs designed to enhance your cruise experience. Shore excursions will help you make the most of your time in port and provide you with the best transportation and guide services available. For certain destinations, such as Europe, tours can be pre-requested by completing the form found in the shore excursion brochure sent to you 4-6 weeks prior to departure. On other cruises you can book your tours through the shore excursion office once you are on-board.
Virtually every cruise ship (except for some smaller vessels operating in coastal waters) has a fully-equipped medical facility and staff to handle almost any emergency.Your prescription medication should be kept close at hand in your purse or carry-on bag rather than in your checked luggage. Be sure to bring a sufficient supply of medication and transport it in the original container. It is also a good idea to carry a written list of your medications in case they are lost. The list should include the name of the drug, dosage, and times taken.
Most cruise lines have set up a “cashless” system designed to make your life on board as simple as possible. You simply sign a receipt for each of your on-board purchases and then settle your shipboard account at the end of the cruise. Cash, VISA, American Express, MasterCard, Discover, and personal or traveler's checks are accepted as payment on most cruise lines.
Depending upon when the cruise is canceled, a cancellation charge may apply. We highly recommend Travel Insurance to protect yourself from penalties assessed for canceling due to medical reasons for yourself or family members. Note: No refunds will be made if you do not show up for your cruise or if you interrupt or cancel your vacation once it has begun.
Tipping is a matter of individual preference. A general rule of thumb is to plan for about € /$ 2.50 to €/$ 3.00 per person per day each for your room steward and dining room waiter, and about half that amount for your busboy. (A few cruise lines include tipping in the price and will so inform you.) Gratuities are customarily given on the last evening of your cruise. On many cruise lines it is now possible to prepay the above gratuities. Other personnel such as bar waiters, bellboys and deck stewards may be tipped as service is rendered. On most cruise lines a 15% gratuity is automatically added to your on board account for beverage purchases which you may adjust according to services rendered.
Each guest is permitted to carry a reasonable amount of personal property (including luggage) aboard the vessel; however, for your comfort and convenience, it is recommended that you limit the number of pieces you take. Keep in mind that airlines may charge for excess or oversize luggage. Charges incurred for excess or oversize baggage are the sole responsibility of the passenger. Each airline has a different limit on the amount of luggage they allow. Check with your air carrier for specific restrictions, such as allowance of Kgs (pounds) and any additional charges.
Women who are at the most 28 weeks pregnant at the end of the cruise may travel on our ships, submitting a medical certificate confirming her fitness to travel at the time of booking.
For the comfort and enjoyment for guests, most of the ships are designated as non-smoking; however, the cruise companies aware of that some of the guests smoke. Therefore, to provide an onboard environment that also satisfies smokers, there are designated certain public and private areas of the ship as "smoking areas."