The Appeal Of Australia And New Zealand
The history of Australia and New Zealand and their distance from most of the rest of the world has given the area a mystery and made it a must see on every travel lovers list. Certainly, there are tourist sites in Australia and New Zealand that are not accessible via cruise ship, but cruise lines offer pre or post cruise add-ons to capture a trip to the outback, the Great Barrier Reef or to see some of the wonderful natural sites in New Zealand.
Because of its location, Australia is a land of plants and animals seen nowhere else in the world. Who doesnt think of koalas and kangaroos in connection with Australia? This isolation from the more populated continents makes Australia and New Zealand even more intriguing to me. Movies ranging from the chilling 1959 doomsday movie, On the Beach to the hilarious Crocodile Dundee have whetted our appetites for Australia. The Australian national song Waltzing Matilda can bring tears or laughter, depending on how it is sung. More recently, the three Lord of the Rings movies, which were set in New Zealand, transformed this exotic island nation into Middle Earth.
If anyone out there hadnt already thought of Australia as a vacation destination, the 2000 Olympics in Sydney certainly raised the awareness of this corner of the world.
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Australia And New Zealand Beyond All You Imagined
Discover our all-new Australia and New Zealand cruises to experience what the rest of the world only imagines.
These exceptional voyages travel to destinations both familiar and far-flung the Great Barrier Reef, Tasmania, New Zealand, Bali, Singapore and more.
From sophisticated Sydney to primitive Komodo, we encounter the legendary Tasmanian Devil and fearsome Komodo dragon, plus sharks, crocs and other toothy types. Visit lavender fields, sheep farms and a remote island full of pearls. Sip the nectar of coastal vineyards. Meet Aboriginal artists and uncover seal colonies rarely seen by humans.
Travel the diverse expanses of Australia and New Zealand with Azamara®s destination experts. Its more than just a far-ranging journey its beyond all you imagined.
Featured Australia & New Zealand Voyages
Tips To Help You Plan Your Cruise Down Under
By Heidi Sarna
Cruises between Australia and New Zealand are all the rage. Well, its all relative: In these parts theres rarely more than one cruise ship in port at a time thank god but still, business is booming with both Celebrity and Royal Caribbean recently announcing theyll position a ship down under next season sometime between late 2007 and March 2008. They join Holland America, Princess and Silversea who are already there this season.
There are few places in the world where the natural beauty is as stunning as New Zealands, though Alaskas Inside Passage and the Norwegian fjords are usually mentioned in the same sentence as the fjords of New Zealands south island. The landscape varies from dense forests to rolling farmland. Brooding windswept clouds cast their shadows across hilly green carpets of sheep and cattle pastures. Seals laze on rocky peninsulas that jut into the frothy sea, vineyards stretch for miles, and the white capped peaks of the Southern Alps poke up through the horizon. It seems every road is a scenic drive. The towns are cute, the people are friendly, and who isnt charmed by that streak of Kiwi wackiness zorbing anyone?
What to Know Before You Go
1. Itineraries are typically about two weeks long and sail between Sydney and Auckland, somewhere between November and April .
8. Driving is on the left in both countries if youre considering renting a car in port . Roads are generally well sign posted and in good condition.
Cunard
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Thinking Of Booking A Cruise
1Sassafrass2jacketwatch3SassafrassjacketwatchSassafrassJacketwatch, I bet your cruises will be just fine. A couple are saying Fall, but most major lines expect to be fully operational by Summer and the ones affected are in the Middle East, New Zealand and Australia, so should not affect you at all. We are hoping for another Caribbean cruise during GDs Spring break, just beaches, snorkeling, shows on the ship, lots of ice-cream, stuff like that for her. We will wait a bit to book though, see how things are going.
More About Australia & New Zealand
What is the best time to cruise to Australia & New Zealand?
Thanks to a rather temperate climate, there are cruises to the continent of Australia nearly year-round. The summer months Down Under are actually considered winter in the U.S., so that’s the most popular time of year to visit . Just keep in mind that from December through February, it can get incredibly hot. For more: Australia Cruise Tips.
Which cruise lines go to Australia & New Zealand?
Pretty much all of the major cruise lines worldwide run Australia/New Zealand cruises, including popular lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Celebrity and luxury line Seabourn. P& O Cruises is the top choice amongst local Aussies. Many of the same lines stop in New Zealand, but only during the summer months –New Zealand tends to be much colder the rest of the year. There are also expedition lines like Lindblad and Coral Expeditions that make port stops in some of the smaller ports throughout New Zealand.
What are some things to do in Australia & New Zealand?
Australia is full of natural landmarks and world-class museums. Don’t miss the beaches or snorkeling and diving the Great Barrier Reef a stroll across the iconic Harbour Bridge in Sydney and shopping and dining in Melbourne. New Zealand is decidedly more low-key and ideal for long strolls to take in the natural landscape, but visitors should also squeeze in an excursion to historic Christchurch.
Do you need a passport to take a cruise to Australia & New Zealand?
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Oceania Cruises To Host An Exclusive Webinar To Preview The New 2023 Europe & North America Collection
OceaniaCruises, the worlds leading culinary and destination-focused cruise line, is launching an exclusive live webinar for valued travel partners in Australia and New Zealand to preview the captivating new 2023Europe and North America Collection, ahead of its official launch on 7 October 2021.
Taking place on Thursday 30 September 2021, from 12:00pm to 12:45pm AEST, Oceania Cruises invites valued travel partners to discover the new collection of itineraries, which will see Oceania Cruises seven small, luxurious ships cruise the alluring and captivating coastline of the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic and Scandinavia. The new voyages also celebrate the best of Alaska, Canada and New England in a masterpiece of original explorations, unspoiled landscapes and iconic cities.
During the webinar, which will be co-hosted by Jason Worth, Vice President Australia and New Zealand, and James Sitters, Business Development Manager Queensland, Western Australia and Northern Territory at Oceania Cruises, travel partners will be introduced to the 2023 voyage collection, featuring 179 destination-intensive itineraries and nine new ports of call. Hosts Jason Worth and James Sitters will also provide invaluable insights into the newest addition to the Oceania Cruises fleet, Vista, and her highly anticipated inaugural season.
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Australia And New Zealand
Cruise Nation are proud to offer competitive cruise packages to some of the most beautiful and highly sought after parts of the world. For many travellers, Australia and New Zealand represent the best in luxury cruise travel – destinations that can offer pampered relaxation and adventure all in one unforgettable voyage.
As experts in cruise travel, we are passionate about helping our customers find the ultimate cruise destinations that will create life-long memories. Australia and New Zealand offer a vast and extremely diverse array of activities and experience – all of which contribute to a cruising adventure like no other.
Get the most out of your holiday with a Cruise Nation Smart Package!
Discover incredible value and huge savings with our Australia & New Zealand Cruise & Stay Deals!
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Australia & New Zealand Cruise Guide
Cruise between two countries famed for spectacular natural beauty, artistic cities and thrilling shore activities.
Imagine your dream cruise to Australia and New Zealand. It probably involves exploring the Great Barrier Reef, sipping coffee in Wellington and meeting a koala bear. All of these dreams can become reality on an Australia and New Zealand cruise. Enjoy other unexpected sights and thrills along the way. Drift along breathtaking fjords in New Zealand or visit UNESCO-listed sites on an Australia cruise that is sure to take in a dazzling and diverse itinerary.
Multiple choices are available to anyone planning an Australia and New Zealand cruise. First, select your ship, which could be a family-friendly craft with myriad activities for children or a smaller vessel for more intimate adventures. Then choose an itinerary, which could cover either nation individually or include both for maximum variety in your Australia and New Zealand cruise vacation.
The two nations are very different, yet both promise thrills, sightseeing and natural beauty to any cruise liner pulling into port. In Australia, experience underwater wonderlands when you dock at Cairns or spend the day exploring the chic city center of Sydney. Book in advance for a sought-after place on a circumnavigation Australia cruise, which circles around the whole island continent.
Australia & New Zealand Cruises
To say that Australia and New Zealand are a region of extremes is no understatement. Silent fjords and thundering waterfalls. Sandy shores and abundant wildlife. The oldest indigenous lands in the world, with some of the youngest cities.Silverseas fleet of small, ultra-luxury cruise ships offers extensive coverage of the entire region. Sailing to 150 destinations, our all-inclusive fleet is as comfortable in the salty waters of The Kimberley as berthed next to the Sydney Opera House. And with both Expedition and Ocean-faring ships sailing the region, whether you want in-depth discovery or leisurely exploration, we guarantee we have an itinerary to suit.Whats more, our crew to guest ratio of almost 1:1 is one of the highest in the industry. Add bespoke mid-land adventures, a wide variety of shore excursions and an authentic ultra-luxury small ship experience and we think youll agree: our Australia and New Zealand cruises really do take you closer to the authentic beauty of the world.
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Fred Olsen Activities & Entertainment
With something to entertain film lovers, quiz nerds and dance enthusiasts, Fred. Olsen offers a wide range of activity options â if you can move after indulging in the delicious food on board that is…
From daily activities such as carpet bowls, table tennis, craft class, cookery demonstrations and afternoon trivia to evening activities including an impressive array of headline acts such as comedians, live music and cabaret â you certainly wonât be bored.
– READ MORE: Discover Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ different take on cruising –
There you have it â your perfect day on board â start with relaxing in the Atlantis Spa, then indulge in one of the restaurants on board such as Colours and Tastes before winning a game of bingo â sounds like heaven to us.
Discover The Perfect Day At Sea With Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines offers a unique take on cruising, with its smaller ships and hand-crafted itineraries.
Ever wondered what life is like on board a Fred. Olsen cruise?
Fred. Olsen masters serene spa treatments, delectable restaurants and engaging entertainment â everything you could possibly want from a cruise.
Read on for a sneak peek of what you can expect, from observing stunning scenery on deck and listening to fascinating talks, to spending your days at sea relaxing in the spa and enjoying a sumptuous afternoon tea in The Observatory â thereâs plenty to keep you amused.
So, sail away with Fred. Olsen and discover your perfect day on board.
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Helpful Tips Before You Go
As you prepare for your Australia & New Zealand cruise, theres a lot to think about, especially if youve never been here before. Create a checklist of key items you need to bring. This will help you have wonderful experiences everywhere you go, whether youre visiting historical sites, absorbing the local vibe, enjoying regional cuisine, or marveling at natural wonders you wont see anywhere else in the world.
- Book Flights by Celebrity® to be protected in case there is any cancellation.
- Research the shore excursions and book them in advance, pre-cruise. The popular shore excursions get sold out fast.
- All United States citizens will need to obtain a visa to visit Australia. This will need to be done in advance of your trip as it will be required for entry into the country.
- Remember to pack sunscreen, bathing suit, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
- Turn on your international cellular service plan.
- Have your documents protected and photocopied.
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P& o Cruises Extends Cruise Suspension
The cruise line has now announced an extension on its pause on cruises for Australia and New Zealand until August 31, 2020. The extension is due to the ongoing global pandemic and travel restrictions which cruise lines have been heavily impacted by.
P& O Cruises President Sture Myrmell, said:
Australia and New Zealand have led the world in flattening the COVID-19 curve, which adds to our optimism for the future. However, we also recognise that a further extension is the prudent and responsible course.
In the confident knowledge that cruising will be back, this is an opportunity to update our guests on the latest itinerary plans and to thank them for their understanding and support during this period of uncertainty. We look forward to welcoming them back onboard our ships when it is safe to do so.
P& O has detailed the changes in operations for Australia and New Zealand impacting many sailings:
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Princess Cruises Announces Australia & New Zealand Itineraries For 2021
One of the Largest Deployments Offered with Five Ships Sailing to 82 Desired Destinations in 19 Countries
SANTA CLARITA, Calif., With once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for seaside exploration, cultural immersion, unique wildlife, regional wine and magical landscapes, Princess Cruises announced destination-rich itineraries for the cruise lines upcoming Australia and New Zealand 2021-2022 season, on sale September 16, 2020, that also includes visiting popular South Pacific tropical destinations of Fiji, Papa New Guinea, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu.One of its largest deployments ever offered, five ships will sail to 82 destinations in 19 countries on 59 unique itineraries. Royal Princess, Emerald Princess, Sapphire Princess, Coral Princess, and Pacific Princess will cruise this season with voyages ranging in length from two to 36 days. Options abound with sailings between a variety of homeports including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Auckland, as well as journeys afar to Southeast Asia and North America.Itinerary highlights of the Australia and New Zealand October 2021 through April 2022 season for bucket-list aficionados comprise:
Offering more time to maximize the experience in each locale, Princess lists 14 destinations with late-night, or More Ashore stays, including Auckland, Darwin, Hobart and. Sydney, to name a few.Access to 11 UNESCO World Heritage sites including:
From Los Angeles California
Three cruise lines sail from Los Angeles to Sydney: Seabourn with its 56-day Pacific Exploration, Crystal Cruises with its 24-day Pacific Sojourn and Oceania, which has a 31-day LA to Sydney cruise. Highlights of Seabourns itinerary include four consecutive days in Hawaii, a visit to the remote Fanning Island in Kiribati, two days in the Solomon Islands and three in Papua New Guinea, as well as a Great Barrier Reef visit, one of five destinations in Australia. Crystal Cruises shorter journey takes you to seven Pacific islands Maui, Oahu, Samoa, Western Samoa, Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia before reaching Australia, where it stops first at the tiny, mountainous Norfolk Island on the way to Sydney. Oceanias cruise similarly hits Hawaii, French Polynesia, American Samoa, Samoa, Fiji and New Caledonia. It stops in Brisbane as well as Sydney.
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Australia/new Zealand Cruises Travel Tips
- While the dress code is pretty casual and relaxed, dont forget your sneakers. Yes, sandals are lovely, but arent that great for long days of walking!
- Dont forget to pack your sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe even a hat. No matter what time of year you visit, the sun is bound to be out in this part of the world. Protect your skin so you can enjoy your adventure!
- Make sure you apply for your visa well in advance of your cruise to Australia and New Zealand. It doesnt matter how long you plan to visit everyone entering has to have on to enter.
- If theres a popular attraction that you want to visit, make sure you get there right in the morning to avoid all crowds that generally come later in the day.
- Try not to shy away from visiting during the winter. Its a beautiful place to visit during this time of year, and its never that busy compared to the summer months!
No Cruising In New Zealand Before October 2022 Association Reveals
Anyone looking to cruise to New Zealand this season is out of luck there are no plans to resume cruising into New Zealand until late next year at the earliest.
Cruising will not resume into New Zealand until the nation has achieved its 90 per cent vaccination rate, which is well above Australias target of 80 per cent before international borders re-open.
The New Zealand Cruise Association Chief Executive Officer Kevin OSullivan told Cruise Passenger that cruising will not return to New Zealand until 90 per cent of New Zealanders have rolled up their sleeves and had their vaccination.
90 per cent of cruises are cancelled. The cruise lines are still booking but the cruises are being cancelled, he said.
Mr OSullivan said that the New Zealand cruise industry had not yet spoken to the Health Minister Chris Hipkins, and that talks were unlikely until the governments desired vaccination rate was achieved a mirror of the treatment being metered our to the industry body in Australia.
Well have to discuss a phased re-entry. That could be smaller ships. Its hard to say. NZ will follow what Australia does, said Mr OSullivan. Fifty per cent of those cruising into New Zealand are Australian.
He said that before Delta there was talk of a cruise bubble. We looked at cruising New Zealand only, or Australia and New Zealand cruising.
At the moment we cant discuss cruising. It will depend on other countries.
The New Zealand economy has also taken a hit.
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