This travel guide details a 14-day Australia to New Zealand cruise ship docks’ locations and what to do when you arrive. Find out where you depart, what ports you stop at, and what you do when you are there.
Australia to New Zealand cruise itinerary
Below is our Australia to New Zealand cruise itinerary in 2023. The Holland America Australia to New Zealand 14-day cruise changes slightly yearly.
Planning a last-minute Australia to New Zealand cruise?
If you’re planning an Australia to New Zealand cruise at the last minute, consider booking your trip, flights, and lodging ASAP. Below are some recommendations.
Best accommodations in Sydney (cruise departure):
- Sir Stamford at Circular Quay
- Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay
- YHA Sydney Harbour – The Rocks (hostel)
Best sites to find cheap flights:
1. Sydney Harbor, Australia: Day 1 Australia to NZ itinerary
Our Australian and New Zealand cruise starts with stunning views of the famous Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour. Before boarding the cruise ship, stroll around the city or shop at the historic Rocks before returning to the ship to enjoy a delicious meal at one of its top-class restaurants.
If you have time to travel around Sydney, save money by riding on public transport. Read our Australia travel guide if you need recommendations on things to do. Some of our favorite adventures were traveling to Port Stephens by public transport to take surf lessons and go camel riding.
Things to do near Sydney
- Hike the Sydney Harbour Bridge
- See the Manly wormhole
- Find the Champagne Spa in Port Stephens
- Visit Luna Park
- Go to Featherdale Wildlife Park
- Visit the Green Square Library
- Go to the Sydney Opera House
2. Day at sea (day 2 Australia to New Zealand cruise)
Enjoy a relaxing day on board as you take advantage of the various dining options and engaging activities like cooking demonstrations and dance lessons.
Spend a day cruising through the Tasman Sea, and indulge in all the ship’s amenities. Dip in the pool, enjoy live music and shows, or pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment.
3. Melbourne, Australia: Day 3
Our next destination is the bustling city of Melbourne. Visit the Lume Museum for an aboriginal art exhibition, and then head to the Brighton bathing boxes. Melbourne is a vibrant city boasting art, culture, and delicious food.
Best Melbourne shore excursions on the Australia to New Zealand cruise
- Lume Museum
- Brighton bathing boxes
4. Burnie, Tasmania (Australia to New Zealand cruise, day 4)
Day four of our 14-day Australia to New Zealand cruise brings us to the stunning wilderness of Tasmania. Get a glimpse of life in the Australian outback on the island of Tasmania. In addition, visit the Makers Workshop and learn about the historic paper mill.
Explore the nearby Cheese tasting rooms and indulge in some of the finest local cheeses. Go on a nature hike and explore the majestic Guide Falls and Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden, where you can spot the elusive duck-billed platypus.
Best Burnie shore excursions
- Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden
- Guide Falls
5. Two days at sea: Days 5 and 6
Take more time on the ship to relax or try something new, like practicing golf swing, attending a culinary workshop, or even enjoying a massage at the ship’s spa.
Spend more time on the Holland America Noordam and enjoy the amenities and activities on board. Also, participate in cooking classes and wine-tasting sessions or spend an evening at the Rolling Stone Rock Room.
6. Milford Sound and Fjordland, NZ: Days 7-8
Next on the Australia to New Zealand cruise itinerary, get lost in the natural beauty of Milford Sound, where you’ll witness some of the world’s most stunning waterfalls. Next, journey through Fjordland, where you can take in the awe-inspiring landscapes from the comfort of your balcony.
Explore the stunning Fjordland and experience the raw beauty of rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests. Take a boat tour through the famous Milford Sound and spot dolphins, seals, and penguins. This is the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and take a break from your busy life.
7. Day 9: Port Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand
Experience New Zealand’s unique wildlife on a private guided tour aboard argos through private farmland. Get to see everything up close, from yellow-eyed penguins to blue penguins to sea lions. You will surely remember this adventure from the 14-day Australia to New Zealand cruise itinerary.
Best shoreline excursion in Port Chalmers
- Natures Wonders private property tour
8. Timaru, New Zealand (day 10)
Take a scenic hike up the Tuhawaiki Point, where you can witness fields of vibrant yellow canola and succulent flowers along the hillside. Learn about the history of Timaru at the South Canterbury Museum, and explore the city’s stunning gardens.
Best Timaru shoreline excursion
- Hike Tuhawaiki Point
9. Day 11: Lyttelton (Christchurch), New Zealand
Christchurch is an excellent destination to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s culture. Visit the famous Christchurch Cathedral and take a stroll through the Botanic Gardens. Ensure you explore the nearby Banks Peninsula, which is filled with beautiful scenery and opportunities for watersports.
Christchurch shore excursion on Australia to New Zealand cruise
10. Day 11: Wellington, New Zealand
Enjoy a ride in the iconic Wellington Cable Car up the hilltop for panoramic city views. Take advantage of visiting the National Museum of New Zealand, Te Papa Tongarewa, and the Space Observatory to learn about New Zealand’s rich history.
Recommended shoreline excursion in Wellington
- Travel on the cable car
- Visit Space Place at Carter Observatory
11. Day 12: Napier, New Zealand
Enjoy an electric bike tour and explore the Art Deco Capital of the world’s bright and cheerful architecture. Make sure to visit the local museum and the aquarium, which are filled with exciting exhibits. Return to Australia to New Zealand cruise ship.
Recommended shoreline Napier excursion
- Ride electric bikes to see the Art Deco Capital of the world
12. Day 13: Tauranga (Rotorua), New Zealand
Go on a memorable kayaking tour of Lake Rotoiti to see the famous glowworm caves and other natural wonders before returning to Auckland for disembarkation and your next great adventure. Experience the unique geothermal activity in Rotorua on a guided tour.
Dip in the natural hot springs and see the stunning geysers and mud pools. If you’re into adventure, try the zipline through the forest or the whitewater rafting.
Recommended Rotorura shore excursion
13. Day 14: Depart the Noordam in Auckland
From the rugged Australian outback to the stunning fjords of New Zealand, this 14-day cruise on the Noordam cruise ship of Holland America will provide every traveler with an unforgettable adventure.
Auckland shore excursion
- Attend a Māori cultural performance at the Auckland Museum
Embarking on a 14-day Australia to NZ cruise aboard the Holland America Noordam cruise ship is an excellent way to experience the beauty of these two countries. From exploring the rugged Australian outback to soaking in the natural hot springs of Rotorua, this cruise itinerary has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, prepare for an adventure, and create unforgettable memories.
What do you do after your Australia to New Zealand cruise?
After your cruise, you don’t return to Sydney, you depart the ship in Auckland. Our family chose to stay in NZ a little longer, and you can too. We wanted to experience things to do in Queenstown, NZ, and further south on the South Island near Bluff. One of our family’s bucket list adventures was cage diving with great white sharks in NZ.
Read more travel tips and guides
Booking an Australia to New Zealand cruise
Before considering the itinerary or the ports of call, you must book your Australia to New Zealand cruise first. The cruise cost will mostly depend on the type of cabin you’re getting, from an inside cabin to a balcony stateroom and a suite.
How much is an Australia to New Zealand cruise
The average price of an interior cabin is usually between $1,399-1,899. An outside or balcony cabin usually ranges between $1,999-2,899. This costs $71 to $103 per person per day. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, a suite cabin would range between $4,099 and $5,799. This costs $146 to $207 per person per day.
Specialty restaurant, wifi, and drink package
Holland America Noordam offers a range of dining options, from eating in the main dining room to the buffet to the specialty restaurants. The two must-visit restaurants are Pinnacle Grill, which serves premium steaks and seafood, and Canaletto, which features authentic Italian cuisine. The price for dining at these restaurants ranges from $35 to $49 per person.
Flight Costs to get to an Australia to New Zealand cruise
Regarding the Holland America Noordam’s Australia to New Zealand 14-Day Cruise, you’ll need to find your way to Sydney, Australia, or Auckland, New Zealand, according to the cruise itinerary.
This additional cost might add a considerable amount to your overall expenses. It’s essential to book your tickets well in advance to avoid sky-high prices. Typically, flights to Oceania range from $1,000 to $1,500 for economy airfare from the United States.
Consider all costs before booking your Australia to New Zealand cruise
Considering all the costs before booking your cruise to budget appropriately is essential. Cabin costs, flights, food and beverages, excursions and activities, and gratuities are all typical expenses you’ll encounter when booking your cruise.
Holland America’s Australia to New Zealand 14-Day Cruise is a must for vacationers and adventurers who want to explore the wondrous waters of Australia and New Zealand.
