Which Cruise Lines Go to Australia and New Zealand Top Picks Revealed

Top cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America Line offer exceptional voyages to Australia and New Zealand, featuring iconic destinations such as Sydney, Auckland, and the stunning Milford Sound. With diverse itineraries, luxurious amenities, and immersive shore excursions, these operators stand out as the best choices for exploring the region’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean offers diverse itineraries with modern ships and family-friendly amenities.
• Princess Cruises excels in scenic cruising, especially through Fiordland and Milford Sound.
• Cunard provides luxury voyages with iconic trans-Pacific crossings and refined onboard experiences.
• Holland America Line features longer, immersive journeys with cultural and wildlife-focused excursions.
• P&O Cruises Australia delivers affordable, locally inspired sailings perfect for first-time cruisers.
• Oceania Cruises combines small-ship intimacy with gourmet dining and in-depth destination exploration.

Why Cruise to Australia and New Zealand?

Australia and New Zealand are two of the most breathtaking destinations in the Southern Hemisphere, offering a unique blend of natural wonders, cosmopolitan cities, and rich cultural experiences. From the vibrant coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef to the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound, these countries promise unforgettable adventures. Cruising to this region allows travelers to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking, offering a seamless way to experience both urban sophistication and remote wilderness. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling streets of Sydney, the geothermal marvels of Rotorua, or the serene beauty of Doubtful Sound, a cruise is one of the most efficient and luxurious ways to take it all in.

With growing interest in long-haul and immersive travel, cruise lines have responded by expanding their itineraries to include more Australian and New Zealand ports. From short 7-night getaways to extensive 21-day expeditions, there’s a cruise to suit every traveler’s schedule and budget. The region’s popularity has also led to increased competition among cruise operators, resulting in enhanced onboard amenities, curated shore excursions, and eco-conscious practices. In this guide, we’ll reveal the top cruise lines that go to Australia and New Zealand, highlighting their unique offerings, itineraries, and what sets them apart. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive overview will help you choose the perfect voyage.

Top International Cruise Lines Sailing to Australia & New Zealand

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean is one of the most prominent international cruise lines offering voyages to Australia and New Zealand. Known for its innovative ships and family-friendly amenities, Royal Caribbean operates seasonal deployments from Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland. The Spectrum of the Seas, one of its Quantum Ultra-Class vessels, sails from Sydney during the Southern Hemisphere summer (December to April), offering 7- to 14-night itineraries that include stops in New Zealand’s South Island, the Bay of Islands, and scenic cruising through Fiordland National Park.

What sets Royal Caribbean apart is its Sky Pad virtual reality bungee trampoline, robotic bartenders at the Bionic Bar, and expansive dining options—from casual buffets to upscale steakhouse experiences. Families love the Adventure Ocean youth program, while adults enjoy the Vitality Spa and Broadway-style shows. A standout itinerary is the 12-night “New Zealand Explorer,” which includes ports like Tauranga (for Rotorua’s geysers), Napier (for Art Deco architecture), and Wellington (New Zealand’s vibrant capital).

Pro Tip: Book early for balcony cabins on the port side during southbound sailings—you’ll get prime views of Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound without having to leave your room.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is a long-time favorite for travelers seeking a balanced mix of relaxation and exploration. With a strong presence in the region, Princess operates multiple ships year-round, including the Grand Princess, Royal Princess, and the newer Discovery Princess. Their itineraries range from 10 to 21 nights, often starting in Sydney and circumnavigating New Zealand or including trans-Tasman crossings between Australia and New Zealand.

Princess is renowned for its MedallionClass technology, which enables contactless check-in, keyless stateroom entry, and personalized service via a wearable device. The line also offers a unique “Local Connections” program, where passengers can enjoy cultural performances, wine tastings, and guided walks led by local experts. For example, in Akaroa, a French-influenced town near Christchurch, cruisers can sample local cheeses and hear stories of early French settlers.

One of the most popular itineraries is the 13-night “New Zealand & Fiordland” cruise, which includes scenic cruising through Dusky Sound, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its untouched wilderness. Princess also partners with local Māori guides in Rotorua and Waitangi, offering immersive cultural experiences that go beyond typical tourist offerings.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises brings a modern, upscale vibe to the Australia and New Zealand market. Their Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Apex ships, known for their sleek design and innovative “Infinite Veranda” staterooms, offer 10- to 14-night sailings from Sydney and Auckland. These itineraries often emphasize scenic cruising, with extended time in ports like Dunedin (home to the Royal Albatross Centre) and Picton (gateway to the Marlborough wine region).

What makes Celebrity stand out is its focus on wellness and sustainability. The ship features a state-of-the-art spa, a fitness center with Peloton bikes, and a dedicated “Oceanview” restaurant serving farm-to-table New Zealand cuisine. The line also participates in the “Ocean Conservation Initiative,” partnering with local marine researchers in Fiordland to monitor water quality and wildlife.

For foodies, Celebrity offers a “Taste of New Zealand” culinary series, where chefs from local restaurants like The French Café in Auckland and Fergburger in Queenstown host cooking demos and pop-up dinners onboard. Their 11-night “Southern Adventure” cruise is a favorite, combining urban exploration with nature-focused excursions like a guided kayak tour in Abel Tasman National Park.

Australian-Based Cruise Lines: Local Expertise & Seasonal Focus

P&O Cruises Australia

P&O Cruises Australia is the country’s largest domestic cruise line, operating a fleet of four ships—Pacific Explorer, Pacific Encounter, Pacific Adventure, and Pacific World—that sail exclusively from Australian ports. While primarily catering to the local market, P&O offers a range of itineraries that include New Zealand, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic Australian experiences.

With a strong emphasis on local culture and entertainment, P&O ships feature performances by Australian artists, themed nights like “Aussie BBQ,” and onboard activities such as didgeridoo workshops and bush tucker tastings. Their 7-night “New Zealand Short Break” from Sydney includes stops in Auckland, Tauranga, and Wellington, with optional excursions like a Hobbiton tour or a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

P&O also offers longer 14-night voyages that explore both the North and South Islands, including scenic cruising in the Marlborough Sounds and a stop in Dunedin. What’s unique is their “P&O Passport” loyalty program, which rewards repeat cruisers with discounts on shore excursions, specialty dining, and future sailings. For families, the “Kids Free” promotion (available on select dates) is a major draw.

Insider Tip: Book a “P&O Premium” package for priority boarding, a welcome drink, and a $100 onboard credit—ideal for first-time cruisers.

Holland America Line (Australia & New Zealand Seasonal Deployments)

While Holland America Line is headquartered in the U.S., it maintains a strong seasonal presence in Australia and New Zealand, typically from October to April. The Noordam and Oosterdam are the most frequent visitors, offering 14- to 21-night “Australia & New Zealand Grand Voyages” that often include a trans-Pacific segment.

Holland America excels in enrichment and destination immersion. Their “On Location” program includes onboard lectures by historians, naturalists, and even former Australian diplomats, while shore excursions are designed to showcase local life. For example, in Napier, passengers can attend a Māori cultural evening with traditional dance and food; in Port Chalmers (near Dunedin), they can visit a working sheep station.

The line also partners with local conservation groups—on a recent cruise, passengers helped plant native kauri trees in Northland, New Zealand, as part of a reforestation initiative. Their 18-night “Southern Cross” itinerary is particularly popular, combining stops in Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, and multiple New Zealand ports with scenic cruising in Milford and Doubtful Sounds.

For travelers who value tradition, Holland America’s elegant ambiance, afternoon tea service, and classic piano lounges offer a refined alternative to more casual lines.

Luxury & Expedition Cruises: Premium Experiences

Silversea Cruises

For those seeking a high-end, all-inclusive experience, Silversea Cruises offers some of the most luxurious voyages in the region. Their small, intimate ships—like the Silver Muse and Silver Nova—carry fewer than 600 guests, allowing for personalized service and access to remote ports like Milford Sound, Dusky Sound, and the Subantarctic Islands.

Silversea’s all-inclusive model covers premium beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and even select shore excursions. Their 14-night “Australia & New Zealand Explorer” cruise includes overnight stays in Auckland and Sydney, giving guests time to explore beyond the port. The line also offers “Zodiac” expeditions in Fiordland, where passengers can get up close to waterfalls, seals, and rare birds.

What sets Silversea apart is its culinary excellence. The ship features multiple specialty restaurants, including La Dame (a Relais & Châteaux partnership) and Indochine (serving Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine). In New Zealand, they collaborate with local wineries like Cloudy Bay and Felton Road for exclusive tastings.

Pro Tip: Book a suite with a veranda for the best views during scenic cruising—Silversea’s ships often sail right up to the cliffs of Milford Sound, creating a truly cinematic experience.

Lindblad Expeditions (National Geographic)

Lindblad Expeditions, in partnership with National Geographic, offers expedition-style cruises that focus on nature, wildlife, and scientific exploration. Their 12- to 16-night itineraries aboard the National Geographic Orion and National Geographic Endurance are designed for adventure seekers who want to get off the beaten path.

These cruises are led by expert naturalists, marine biologists, and photographers from National Geographic. Passengers can participate in citizen science projects, such as monitoring penguin colonies in the Otago Peninsula or tracking humpback whales in the Hauraki Gulf. The ships carry kayaks, Zodiacs, and underwater cameras to capture marine life.

A standout feature is the “Photo School” program, where guests receive hands-on training in wildlife and landscape photography. Their 14-night “Australia & New Zealand: From the Outback to the Fjords” voyage includes stops in remote places like the Three Kings Islands and the Auckland Islands, where few cruise ships go.

While not luxury in the traditional sense (think cozy cabins and communal dining), Lindblad offers unparalleled access to the region’s most pristine environments.

Seasonal Considerations & Best Times to Cruise

Peak Season (December–February)

The Southern Hemisphere summer is the most popular time to cruise, with warm weather, long daylight hours, and festive events like New Year’s Eve fireworks in Sydney Harbor. However, this is also the most expensive and crowded period. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and P&O fill up quickly, so early booking is essential.

During peak season, you’ll find the widest range of itineraries, including short 7-night “taster” cruises and longer 21-day expeditions. The downside is higher prices—expect to pay 20–30% more for the same cabin compared to shoulder seasons.

Shoulder Seasons (October–November, March–April)

Traveling during shoulder months offers a sweet spot: pleasant weather (temperatures in the 60s–70s°F), fewer crowds, and lower prices. This is the best time for scenic cruising in Fiordland, as the waterfalls are at their most powerful from spring rains (October–November) or autumn snowmelt (March–April).

Many luxury and expedition lines, like Silversea and Lindblad, schedule their most ambitious itineraries during this time, taking advantage of milder conditions for Zodiac and kayaking excursions. For example, Lindblad’s March voyages often coincide with the annual migration of humpback whales.

Winter Cruising (May–September)

While most mainstream lines pause operations in winter, expedition and luxury lines continue to sail. The weather is cooler, but the region experiences fewer tourists and more dramatic cloud formations, creating stunning photo opportunities. Winter is also the best time to see auroras (Southern Lights) from southern New Zealand.

For travelers willing to bundle up, a winter cruise offers a unique perspective—imagine steaming geysers in Rotorua shrouded in mist or snow-dusted peaks in Fiordland.

Comparing Cruise Lines: Key Data & Practical Tips

Quick Comparison Table

Cruise Line	Ships Deployed	Itinerary Length	Best For	Price Range (Per Person)
Royal Caribbean	Spectrum of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas	7–14 nights	Families, first-time cruisers	$1,200–$3,000
Princess Cruises	Discovery Princess, Grand Princess	10–21 nights	Cultural immersion, couples	$1,500–$4,500
Celebrity Cruises	Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex	10–14 nights	Wellness, foodies	$1,800–$5,000
P&O Cruises Australia	Pacific Adventure, Pacific Explorer	7–14 nights	Budget travelers, Australians	$800–$2,000
Silversea	Silver Muse, Silver Nova	12–18 nights	Luxury, all-inclusive	$6,000–$15,000
Lindblad Expeditions	NG Endurance, NG Orion	12–16 nights	Wildlife, adventure	$7,000–$12,000

Practical Tips for Booking

• Book early: Popular itineraries (especially those including Milford Sound) sell out 6–12 months in advance.
• Check visa requirements: Australian and New Zealand visas are required for most nationalities; some cruise lines include them in the package.
• Pack layers: Weather can vary dramatically—bring a waterproof jacket, warm layers for fjords, and sunscreen for coastal areas.
• Choose your cabin wisely: For scenic cruising, opt for port-side cabins on southbound voyages; starboard on northbound.
• Research shore excursions: Book directly with the cruise line for guaranteed return to the ship; use local operators for unique experiences (e.g., a helicopter tour over Franz Josef Glacier).

Whether you’re drawn to the high-energy entertainment of Royal Caribbean, the cultural depth of Princess, or the remote adventures of Lindblad, Australia and New Zealand offer a cruise experience like no other. With careful planning and the right cruise line, your journey through this stunning region will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go to Australia and New Zealand?

Majestic cruise lines like Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises Australia, and Holland America Line regularly sail to Australia and New Zealand. These operators offer diverse itineraries, from short coastal trips to month-long explorations of the South Pacific.

Are there luxury cruise lines that visit Australia and New Zealand?

Yes, luxury options like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, and Silversea feature all-inclusive voyages to both countries. These high-end lines provide boutique experiences with gourmet dining, butler service, and curated shore excursions.

What’s the best family-friendly cruise line for an Australia and New Zealand itinerary?

Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line are top family picks, with ships boasting kids’ clubs, water parks, and multi-generational activities. Both lines offer sailings from Sydney and Auckland, making them convenient for regional travelers.

Do any expedition cruise lines go to Australia and New Zealand?

Expedition specialists like Lindblad Expeditions and Ponant explore remote areas, including the Great Barrier Reef and New Zealand’s Milford Sound. These cruises focus on wildlife, culture, and adventure with expert guides and small ships.

Which cruise lines offer the longest voyages to Australia and New Zealand?

For extended journeys, Oceania Cruises and Cunard Line operate 20+ day itineraries covering both countries. These sailings often include overnight stays in ports like Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland for deeper exploration.

Can I find affordable cruise lines for Australia and New Zealand trips?

Budget-friendly options like P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Cruise Line offer competitively priced 7–14 day itineraries. Look for repositioning cruises during shoulder seasons for even better deals on these sought-after routes.