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New Zealand Cruises

Let a cruise of New Zealand introduce you to incredible scenery and rich traditions, from the fiords of the south to the beautiful beaches of the north and all the stunning headlands, bays and ports in between. Glide through turquoise waters and delve deep into Maori culture on the North Island and indulge all your senses with stunning landscapes, charming cities, and delightful culinary experiences on the South Island.

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Search 283 cruise departures around New Zealand

Popular Cruises

13 Days Sydney to Sydney

Operator: Celebrity Cruises

From 2,462pp
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10 Days Sydney to Sydney

Operator: Royal Caribbean

From 2,904pp
Save 1,672pp

13 Days Sydney to Sydney

Operator: Royal Caribbean

From 3,772pp
Save 1,767pp

14 Days Sydney to Sydney

Operator: Celebrity Cruises

From 12,629pp
Save 140pp

Featured Cruise Lines Featured Cruise Lines

Holland America
For 150 years, Holland America Line has been a recognized leader in cruising. If you are looking for some of the most spacious and comfortable ships at more sea, award-winning service, exquisite dining, extensive activities and enrichment programs and compelling worldwide itineraries, you've come to the right place. Balance. Depth. Authenticity. These are the elements we bring to more than 500 itineraries, stopping in 100 countries, the world over.
New Zealand Cruises28
Budget:Premium
Known For:Alaskan Cruises
Fleet Size:11
Carnival
Over the years P&O Cruises led the Australasian cruise industry, and established themselves as the region’s only home brand and experts in delivering memorable more cruise holidays. On every cruise, their guests are treated to a range of amazing onboard cruise activities, plenty of dining options, spectacular entertainment, and a wide range of shore tours that offers something for everyone.

In March 2025, P&O Cruises Australia joined Carnival Corportation and it's two ships joined the fleet as Carnival Adventure® and Carnival Encounter®. Onboard, guests can expect a seamless blend of Carnival’s signature Fun Ship experience, plus many of the much-loved P&O features, giving guests the best of both worlds.
New Zealand Cruises7
Budget:Affordable
Known For:South Pacific
Fleet Size:4
Heritage Expeditions
Pioneers in environmentally friendly, authentic small ship expedition cruising Heritage Expeditions has been exploring some of the world's most unique more and remote islands, coasts and shorelines with intrepid travellers for more than 40 years.

Contributing to conservation through experiential learning and providing funds for research and management, each expedition is meticulously planned and led by an expert team of botanists, ornithologists, naturalists and historians who interpret the natural and human history discovered during each voyage. Our ships are equipped to ensure every guest has the opportunity to maximise every opportunity to learn, discover and experience as much as possible, while minimising the impact of their visit and becoming an ambassador for these special places.
New Zealand Cruises51
Budget:Premium
Known For:Responsible Travel
Fleet Size:2

Discover

Must do experiences and highlights on a New Zealand cruise
Picture Perfect Bay of Islands Picture Perfect Bay of Islands
Explore this paradise by land, water, or sky. Coach to Cape Reinga, cruise to the Hole in the Rock, or take a scenic flight over this lovely archipelago.
The Cultural Hot Spot of Rotorua The Cultural Hot Spot of Rotorua
Mt. Maunganui oversees your arrival into the Bay of Plenty, your gateway to visit the thermal wonderland and cultural stronghold of Rotorua.
Delightful Marlborough Sounds Delightful Marlborough Sounds
Watch from the deck as you wind through the beautiful bays and inlets of Marlborough Sounds, before sampling the renowned wine of the region.
Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula
Rolling green hills tumble into the sea and are crowned by the ‘Edinburgh of the South’ – Dunedin. Explore the city’s charming streets flanked by Victorian buildings, visit the botanic gardens, or simply soak in the view.
Scenic Fiordland Cruising Scenic Fiordland Cruising
Sail atop glassy waters and glide below the towering cliffs framing the Fiordland National Park. Pass through Milford, Doubtful and Dusky sounds taking in the stunning scenery that dwarfs your ship, and all your expectations.

Recent Reviews

What our clients are saying about their cruises around New Zealand
Celebrity Edge to New Zealand New Zealand Cruise , NSW, Australia, Nov 2025
Thankyou for attending to our booking. The whole journey was seamless thanks to you excellent service. We always recommend you to people looking to book a journey. Your support and prompt services always goes above and beyond expectations. The Celebrity Edge is an amazing ship with friendly staff and lots of room to relax and enjoy the journey.
Lovely New Zealand Cruise New Zealand , QLD, Australia, Jan 2025
Had a great time travelling with Princess, it was our first cruise and for our Honeymoon and was overall a great experience. Luckily we also had amazing weather. Given how great this cruise was we will be booking another cruise in the very near future!
First Class Service New Zealand , NSW, Australia, Jan 2025
From booking the cruise to sailing the experience was magnificent and would love to stay longer. The vessel facilities, service, food and entertainment where first class. The staff friendliness and attention is wonderful to experience.
Global Journeys have done a fabulous job with my booking on our Princess Cruise to NZ   New Zealand , ACT, Australia, Dec 2024
The service from Grace was exemplary as was the Royal Princess cruise. Our cabin was exactly what we wanted, just the best outlook.
Marvellous cruise set up, friendly efficient Global Journeys   Australia & New Zealand , Northland , New Zealand, Oct 2024
My first cruise with Princess was such a wonderful experience on the impressive Royal Princess. An immaculate ship with amazing decor & facilities, activities, food & crew to match. A special mention to my Travel Advisor, Maisie, a credit to Global Journeys with her efficiency & enthusiasm. I wouldn't hesitate to use Global Journeys & Princess Cruises on future adventures!
Onboard and Relax Australia & New Zealand , New Zealand, Oct 2024
Thank you Sam for booking us on the cruise Auckland to Sydney, and quickly helping us with our queries. Embarking and disembarking is straightforward and pleasant! Beats any experience passengers are subjected to by airport staff and procedures. It was a thoroughly enjoyable 6 night cruise on the Royal Princess liner. Fantastic food and entertainment read more and a lovely gym. Could not fault the staff- friendly and helpful, professional and genuine. NB: The cabins had American power points. For people with NZ & AU electrical devices please consider packing an adaptor plug with usb ports. The cabin attendants will provide the loan of an adaptor plug but it won't have a usb port.

Explore More

Your guide to cruising New Zealand
If you’ve been dreaming of a journey that blends luxurious comfort with the thrill of true exploration, Ponant’s latest New Zealand season could be your perfect match. This
Cruising is returning to Australia and New Zealand we are so excited! After what seems like a very long time, the Australian Government has announced that the ban on cruise

Common Questions Common questions about cruising New Zealand

What is the best time to cruise New Zealand?

Cruise season in New Zealand generally begins in October and ends in late April with the peak season falling during the summer months of December to March. Peak season is also when the widest choice of cruises are available. October, November and April are just outside of peak season and prices may be more competitive during those months. As the weather should still be mild it offers a good time to cruise on a tighter budget.

What side of the ship is best on a New Zealand cruise?

This depends on your preference and route. If you are hoping to see the shore then pick the side facing land. For example, when sailing from the north to south along the east coast of New Zealand, the shore is on the right or starboard side of the ship. As you can't always see the shore, you may prefer to base your decision on whether you prefer a view of the sunrise or sunset from your balcony. When visiting the Fjords, stunning scenery will be on all sides so you're unlikely to miss out. Viewing decks are popular at these locations to take in the full beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Can you cruise from Australia to New Zealand?

Yes, you can cruise from Australia to New Zealand. There are a myriad of itineraries on offer of various lengths and complexity. Some are round trips starting  and ending in Australia and cruising to and around New Zealand in between. Others start in Australia visiting various locations on the east coast before heading to explore New Zealand. Similarly, you can start in New Zealand and end in Australia. It is a wonderful way to explore the diverse and stunning scenery of both countries in one holiday.

Which cruise lines go to Australia and New Zealand?

It might be easier to list ones that don't visit Australia and New Zealand as most major cruise lines operate extensively throughout the region during the main cruise season of October to April with some operating year round in Australia. We offer cruise itineraries from 18 of the most well known cruise operators offering experiences from sailing yachts, small ships and expedition ships to well known mega cruise ships. Explore our New Zealand cruise and Australian cruise departures for more information.

Are the seas rough between Australia and New Zealand?

The Tasman Sea can be a bit choppy at times. However, the cruise season falls over the same summer months that are also considered to the best time to make the crossing. Weather patterns are more settled and as a consequence sailing conditions are fairer. As with any cruising, you can never be 100% certain of calm seas so if you are prone to sea sickness, be sure to pack your travel sickness medication.

Routes

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