Low Cost Cruises
Low Cost Cruises ATOLLow Cost Cruises ATOL
Australia & New Zealand Cruises: Complete Guide to Routes & Destinations

Australia & New Zealand Cruises: Complete Guide to Routes & Destinations

12 Oct 2026•5 min read

A complete guide to Australia & New Zealand cruise routes, destinations and the best time to explore Australia & New Zealand.

Enjoy a breathtaking holiday to Australia and New Zealand exploring the natural landscapes and the wildlife. Explore the iconic landmarks in Sydney, tropical islands of Queensland to volcanic landscapes to New Zealand.

Best Australia & New Zealand Cruise Routes

Choosing the right itinerary for Australia and New Zealand cruises depends on your preferences of travel, holiday time and the destinations you want to experience.

  • Australia Coastal Cruises

Australian coastal cruises are ideal for travellers looking to discover the iconic cities, tropical islands and breathtaking shorelines. The Australia New Zealand cruise itinerary may depart from Brisbane or Sydney with selected voyages in Queensland, the Great Barrier Reef region and other coastal destinations.

Top destinations to explore:

  • Sydney: Explore the Sydney Opera House, known for its sail-shaped or shell-like roof structure. Enjoy a walk around Circular Quay and climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for panoramic views.

  • Brisbane: Explore Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, known for kangaroos, koalas, wombats and a saltwater crocodile exhibit. Visit South Bank Parklands & Streets Beach, exploring the white-sand beach and lagoon pool.

  • Cairns: Explore the Great Barrier Reef offering premier snorkelling, scuba diving, scenic helicopter flights, and floating pontoons. Visit Fitzroy Island, an island for hiking with eco-resorts and Nudey Beach.

  • Airlie Beach: Explore the Whitsunday Islands with a stretch that is famous for its pure silica sand that does not retain heat.

These Australia New Zealand cruise routes are appealing for people looking to explore beaches and islands where you can relax and chill in the beaches.


  • New Zealand Scenic Cruises

New Zealand cruises are famous for breathtaking natural scenery, coastal towns, and wildlife. Explore Maori culture and towering fjords like Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park.

​Top destinations to explore:

  • Auckland: Explore Mount Eden hiking to the summit of the highest volcanic point of Auckland for panoramic views of the city. Visit the Sky Tower for panoramic city views, or try the Sky Walk and Sky Jump.

  • Tauranga: Explore Mount Maunganui, a prominent 232-meter volcanic lava dome located in Tauranga. Explore Rotorua's geothermal landscapes, with active geysers and steaming volcanic vents in the Pacific Ring of Fire.

  • Wellington: Explore the Museum of Te Papa Tongarewa and the pretty cafes, galleries and waterfront.

  • Napier: Explore the exquisite Art Deco architecture, waterfront and discover the Hawke’s Bay.

  • Dunedin: Dunedin is known for its Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Explore the historic streets and wild, rich Otago Peninsula.

Explore the South Island itineraries, including Fiordland National Park, known for cascading waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. Milford Sound is famous for its serene landscape, while some itineraries also include Dusky Sound.


  • Australia & New Zealand Combination Cruises

For travellers seeking a comprehensive journey, Australia and New Zealand combination cruises bring two fascinating countries together. Voyages may connect Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane with Auckland, Wellington, Tauranga and destinations along New Zealand’s southern coastline.

These longer itineraries are ideal for travellers who want to experience Australia's iconic architecture alongside New Zealand's awe-striking natural beauty.

Explore the harbour attractions of Sydney, cultural districts of Melbourne and the coastal cities of New Zealand sailing through Fiordland.


Best Time to Take an Australia & New Zealand Cruise

The best time for an Australia and New Zealand cruise holidays depends on the preferred destinations and weather conditions.

​November to March offers warmer weather and is ideal for summer cruising in the Southern Hemisphere. These months are ideal for exploring beaches, beach excursions, outdoor sightseeing, and New Zealand's beautiful landscapes.

​March to May is the arrival of autumn with changing foliage in some areas and peak-summer crowds at few destinations.

​September to November offers spring, with blooming gardens, cities to explore, and coastal attractions as temperatures rise.

​

Whether you want a short holiday to an Australian coastal escape or the scenic landscapes of New Zealand, choosing the right route helps you create a holiday that suits your preferences. Compare itineraries and departure dates to find the best travel package for you. Explore exciting holiday packages with Low Cost Cruises.

Get Exclusive Cruise Deals
Straight to Your Inbox

Worldwide Cruises

Low Cost Cruises

Find your perfect cruise holiday.