Australia and New Zealand cruises

In New Zealand, a cruise to Fiordland and along the Milford Sound is an ethereal adventure, with incredible views and lots of wildlife to spot from deck. If it’s cities you prefer, New Zealand offers Christchurch, Wellington and Auckland: all bursting with culture and unique architecture.

Australia’s Kangaroo Island offers kangaroos, just as you’d expect, but also wallabies, koalas, seals, sea lions and goannas, placid lizards that can grow up to a meter long. Wine country is conveniently accessible from Busselton: the vineyards of Margaret River are second to none, and the local caves are perfect for exploring. Finally, a cruise along Australia’s east coast would be incomplete without a stop in Sydney. The sights of the harbor bridge and the opera house are known all over the world, and the Great Barrier Reef offers a diving experience unlike any other.

Cruises to Australia and New Zealand tend to operate between October and April, avoiding the colder winter months. December, January and February offer the warmest days, however the weather in this region (New Zealand in particular) can change very quickly. When you pack, prepare for a range of temperatures, and remember a waterproof jacket.

This region is large, and the weather is affected by several ocean currents and landmass size. New Zealand in particular can experience multiple seasons in a day! When you pack for your cruise, choose clothes that can be easily layered, so you can add or remove them for maximum comfort. Bring along a waterproof jacket for rain, sun protection for sun, comfortable shoes for exploring, and a warm jacket for cooler evenings.

Each Cunard Queen is equipped with pools and spa facilities, so pack swimwear (perhaps more than one set if you plan on snorkeling or diving during port calls), and bring your best dresses and suits for our formal Gala evenings.