8 best Australia and New Zealand cruises

10.08.2024 - 18:00 / thepointsguy.com

When it comes to cruising, Australia and New Zealand are often intertwined into a single sailing — these two countries have a complementary relationship, offering a diverse array of attractions and experiences. Plus, their relative geographic proximity makes it convenient to check both of these bucket list destinations off your list simultaneously, creating one unforgettable vacation.

Australia's allure lies in its vastness and variety. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the sun-kissed beaches of the Gold Coast and the ancient wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia delivers an approachable mix of urban sophistication and raw wilderness.

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Similarly, New Zealand captivates cruisers with its cinematic scenery. Active shore excursions featuring hiking, bungee jumping and kayaking get your heart racing, while Maori cultural tours add a depth and richness to your visit.

Aussie and Kiwi splendors await aboard these eight best cruises to Australia and New Zealand. We chose options that vary in length, ports of call and price, so everyone can find their own Down Under dream cruise.

Tick several Australasian highlights off your list with this one-off 16-night New Zealand & Australia Voyage from Azamara in February 2025 aboard the 702-passenger Azamara Pursuit. Beginning in Auckland, the ship will wind its way around New Zealand before heading to Tasmania (with an overnight stay in Hobart) and up to Melbourne and Sydney. Shore excursions will keep passengers busy during two-plus weeks with only three sea days. Try a trek through Hastings Cave in Tasmania, a dip in a thermal pool in the rainforest or a wine tasting in Waipara Valley.

Who should go: Golf lovers will be especially keen to hop on this cruise, as it's part of Azamara's golf program by PerryGolf. Add this to your booking and get in six rounds throughout the sailing (including at Terrey Hills, Kauri Cliffs and Cape Kidnappers). For many travelers, Azamara represents a good value, with included gratuities, drinks and self-service laundry. Fares start at $3,744 per person.

As one of the world's most precious wilderness regions, the Kimberley is home to Precambrian rocks, rugged and diverse landscape with mangroves and savannas, and the oldest living culture in the world. It's no wonder cruises here are highly coveted, as is the case with Seabourn's 10-night Kimberley expeditions in 2025.

This itinerary begins in Darwin and each of the nine port stops offers a wide array of excursions designed to deeply entrench passengers into the locale. Many are guided Zodiac expeditions with naturalists to see waterfalls, wildlife and local ways of life.

Who should go: Travelers looking