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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.

Popular Cruises View all

5 Days Auckland to Auckland

Operator: P&O Cruises

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5 Days Auckland to Auckland

Operator: P&O Cruises

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15 Days Auckland to Auckland

Operator: Princess

From 2,346
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4 Days Auckland to Auckland

Operator: P&O Cruises

From 673

Featured Cruise LinesFeatured Cruise Lines View all

Azamara
Here at Azamara, we continue our efforts to be the world's top up-market cruise line. As such, we are committed to providing you with unparalleled service;...more the finest dining at sea; a glorious spa and wellness retreat, and innovations such as Destination Immersion® experiences. With our hallmark of stay longer, experience more, we'll not only take you to awe-inspiring destinations, but also give you more time to fall in love with them.
New Zealand Cruises6
Budget:Luxury
Known For:Longer Stays
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 Cruises38
Budget:Premium
Known For:Responsible Travel
Fleet Size:2
P&O Cruises
Over the years P&O Cruises have led the Australasian cruise industry, and established ourselves as the region’s only home brand and experts in delivering...more memorable cruise holidays. On every cruise, our 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. With years of experience and thousands of cruises under our belt, we know how Aussies like to cruise. Our popular Short Breaks cruises and longer cruise holidays offer the perfect opportunity for guests to relax, unwind, and explore the world.
New Zealand Cruises20
Budget:Affordable
Known For:South Pacific
Fleet Size:3

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

Wonderful Cruise Sydney to Auckland NZ     , QLD, Australia, Dec 2023
What an amazing experience! From the time we boarded the Viking Orion in Sydney to disembarking in Auckland our expectations were exceeded at every point. The staff were very friendly and accommodating - nothing was a problem. The entertainment was brilliant and the food terrific. What was very noticeable was the high standard of cleanliness that ...read more was maintained throughout the ship - it made us very confident that we would be unlikely to become ill because of some bug on the ship. Well done Viking - we have booked another cruise with you and Global Journeys.
Five days to Melbourne   , New Zealand, Nov 2023
Worst cruise we ever have done! Cabin on the bow of the ship, nearest elevator the length of half the ship away. All so called complimentary dining venues sold out. Left only meals upstairs, always full and hard to get a table, walking with a walker and getting food was impossible! NEVER again on P&O Australia!

Explore More Your guide to cruising New Zealand

The Vikings are Coming!

06 April, 2022

The Vikings are Coming!

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 vessels entering Australia will not be extended when it ends on April 17. This means only one thing… Cruising is coming...

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...read more 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...read more 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...read more 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...read more 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...read more calm seas so if you are prone to sea sickness, be sure to pack your travel sickness medication.