Why cruise to New Zealand?

New Zealand isn’t just a destination — it’s an unfolding panorama. It’s where wild meets wonder, and each port welcomes you with a different personality.
Cruising lets you uncover the breadth of this cinematic country without the hassle of unpacking twice. Glide from the golden beaches of the Bay of Islands to the storybook fjords of the South Island. Swap early-morning airport queues for sunrise on the open sea. Watch dolphins dance alongside the bow and toast each day with views money can’t buy.
With itineraries ranging in nights and bonus inclusions built into every package, we make it easy to tailor your trip to your travel style — whether you’re a thrill-seeker, soul-soother or culture lover.

Auckland

The ‘City of Sails’ sets the tone with volcanic peaks, shimmering harbours and a skyline where sailboats and skyscrapers collide. Wander waterfront precincts, indulge in national cuisine or venture out to nearby Waiheke Island — praised for boutique wineries and artistic flair.

Bay of Islands

A subtropical sanctuary peppered with 140 isles, this region is steeped in Maori heritage and marine life magic. Kayak turquoise coves, swim with dolphins or simply sun yourself on a secluded beach.

Doubtful, Dusky and Milford Sound

These legendary fjords in Fiordland National Park are nothing short of soul-stirring. Picture sheer cliffs, echoing waterfalls and mist that clings to mountaintops like a secret. Cruising here is like floating through a painting.

Dunedin (Port Chalmers)

Rich in Scottish roots and whimsical wildlife, Dunedin charms with gothic architecture, rolling hills and rare species like yellow-eyed penguins and the only mainland royal albatross colony in the world.

Wellington, Napier, Tauranga and beyond

From Wellington’s boho vibes and Napier’s Art Deco flair to Tauranga’s bubbling geothermal pools, every stop unlocks something new — whether it’s fine wine, Maori legends or street art and sunshine.

Cruise round-trip from Sydney

Sail straight from your doorstep and soak up the sea days in style. This is an ideal choice if you want the convenience of a single departure port, allowing you to ease into holiday mode the moment you leave home. You’ll enjoy plenty of time to unwind onboard before reaching New Zealand’s breathtaking coastlines.

Fly to New Zealand, cruise back to Australia

Start your adventure in Auckland, Queenstown or Christchurch and journey home by sea. This option gives you more time to explore inland highlights before cruising — perfect for travellers who want to tick off New Zealand’s alpine heartlands or cultural cities before retreating into cruise luxury.

Add a tropical twist

Some cruises combine New Zealand with island stopovers in Fiji or New Caledonia, blending rugged fjords with sun-kissed beaches. It’s the ultimate two-in-one escape, where you can snorkel in coral gardens one day and gaze at snow-capped peaks the next.

Go coast to coast

Extended sailings from Perth or Adelaide let you experience the breadth of Australia and New Zealand in one sweeping voyage. This is your chance to see it all — from Western Australia’s famed wine regions to the emerald fjords of the South Island.

What you’ll need

A New Zealand cruise might be easy to book, but a little prep goes a long way. Here’s what you’ll need to enter this beloved island country.

Passport

Australians still need one to cruise internationally. Make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months beyond your return.

NZeTA

Most travellers, including Aussies, need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority. It’s affordable, easy to apply for and valid for two years.

Travel insurance

Highly recommended — not just for peace of mind, but for medical, baggage and cancellation protection.

Dive deeper on tour

Why limit your New Zealand experience to the coastline? Delve further into the heart of the island nation with our curated tour journeys, offering an intimate exploration of the country’s majestic landscapes and cultural treasures.

Our fly-and-tour packages present a tapestry of turquoise lakes, alpine peaks and charming towns. From Christchurch, the ‘Garden City’, through Lake Tekapo’s celestial blue waters, Dunedin’s Scottish heritage streets and Queenstown’s adventure-filled avenues. Each day unfolds a new chapter of natural wonder and cultural richness. Our tours are designed with return flights, deluxe coach travel, expert guides and thoughtfully selected accommodations. Every detail is handled.

Why book with My Cruises?

At My Cruises, we don’t just sell packages, we craft once-in-a-lifetime journeys. Our New Zealand cruises include handpicked luxury hotels, exclusive Bonus Value inclusions (like shore excursions and onboard credit), flights, transfers and curated extras to surprise and delight you along the way.
Every detail is fine-tuned by our Holiday Experts — people who love cruising as much as you do. We know the difference between a good trip and an unforgettable one. That’s why over a million travellers have trusted us to deliver dream holidays wrapped in ease.
So whether you’re sipping wine in Marlborough, watching waterfalls pour through morning mist in Fiordland or tracing Maori stories in the steam of Rotorua, one thing’s certain — New Zealand will stay with you long after you sail home.