New Zealand Cruise
Tours

Sydney to New Zealand round-trip aboard the Royal Princess

Tours

15 Days

4 to 18 December 2026

Tours

Active

Tours

$5,320pptw

Tours

89 villabucks

New Zealand Cruise

Sydney to New Zealand round-trip aboard the Royal Princess

Set sail from sparkling Sydney Harbour and voyage across the Tasman Sea aboard Royal Princess, a luxurious ship filled with dining delights, entertainment and peaceful sea views. Explore both islands of New Zealand, uncovering rich Māori culture, breathtaking natural beauty and charming towns steeped in history. From the peaceful Bay of Islands to Auckland’s vibrant waterfront, Marlborough’s rolling vineyards and Fiordland’s dramatic scenery, this unforgettable cruise blends adventure with comfort and elegance.

Set sail from sparkling Sydney Harbour and voyage across the Tasman Sea aboard Royal Princess, a luxurious ship filled with dining delights, entertainment and peaceful sea views. Explore both islands of New Zealand, uncovering rich Māori culture, breathtaking natural beauty and charming towns steeped in history. From the peaceful Bay of Islands to Auckland’s vibrant waterfront, Marlborough’s rolling vineyards and Fiordland’s dramatic scenery, this unforgettable cruise blends adventure with comfort and elegance.

Itinerary

Your holiday itinerary (ex Perth, Western Australia)

Day 1. Perth to Sydney (D)
Your journey begins with a warm Villa welcome as we collect you from home and transfer you to the airport. On arrival in Sydney, enjoy a smooth transfer to your harbourside hotel. Settle in and relax after your flight, before gathering for a delicious dinner overlooking Darling Harbour, where city lights dance on the water.
One night: Novotel Darling Harbour.

Day 2. Sydney Embarkation (BLD)
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning stroll or coffee by the harbour before boarding Royal Princess. As you sail out past the Opera House and beneath the Harbour Bridge, watch Sydney’s glittering skyline fade behind you. Sip champagne on deck as the ship glides through the Heads and into the open Pacific, your grand adventure has begun.
Thirteen nights: Royal Princess Cruise Stateroom.

Day 3. At Sea – Discover Your Ship (BLD)
Today you can truly unwind. Explore the elegant piazza, relax by the pool with a book, or join a cooking demonstration. There is so much to enjoy on board, from live music and art auctions to afternoon tea served with ocean views. This evening, dine in one of the speciality restaurants before catching a Broadway-style show.

Day 4. At Sea – Pampering and Pleasures (BLD)
Wake to the gentle rhythm of the sea. Perhaps start the day with a yoga session or a stroll along the deck before breakfast. Treat yourself to a spa treatment at the Lotus Spa or a refreshing pool swim. By evening, settle under the stars for an outdoor movie on the big screen, a signature Royal Princess experience.

Day 5. At Sea – Tastes and Tunes (BLD)
Savour another relaxing day at sea. Indulge in fresh seafood or try a new dish from the international buffet. Browse the onboard boutiques, take part in a quiz, or simply watch the endless blue horizon from your private balcony. Tonight, enjoy live music in the atrium before a moonlit walk on deck.

Day 6. Bay of Islands, New Zealand (BLD)
Step ashore into a slice of paradise. The Bay of Islands welcomes you with golden beaches, lush forests and a deep connection to Māori culture. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, wander through the historic seaside town of Russell, or take a cruise to see playful dolphins. Every corner of this region is alive with natural beauty and history.

Day 7. Auckland, New Zealand (BLD)
Dock in Auckland, the “City of Sails”, surrounded by sparkling harbours and volcanic hills. Explore the vibrant waterfront precincts, sample local cuisine at the markets, or visit the Auckland Museum for insight into New Zealand’s heritage. For wine lovers, a ferry trip to Waiheke Island offers boutique vineyards and scenic views.

Day 8. At Sea – Across the Cook Strait (BLD)
As Royal Princess cruises south, spend the day however you please, perhaps learning about New Zealand through an onboard lecture, joining a dance class, or simply admiring the endless expanse of blue. In the evening, share stories over dinner as the ship sails towards the South Island.

Day 9. Picton and Marlborough Sounds (BLD)
Wake to emerald hills and turquoise inlets as you glide into Queen Charlotte Sound. From Picton, venture into the world-famous Marlborough wine region for tastings and garden visits. Discover charming Blenheim or enjoy a leisurely harbour stroll. This region’s wines and scenery perfectly capture the spirit of New Zealand’s South Island.

Day 10. Lyttelton for Christchurch (BLD)
Sail into Lyttelton Harbour, gateway to graceful Christchurch, the “Garden City”. Ride along the Avon River, wander through Hagley Park and visit the Botanic Gardens, filled with roses in summer bloom. Enjoy the city’s innovative architecture, rebuilt with creativity after the earthquakes and admire its proud English heritage before returning to the ship.

Day 11. Dunedin (Port Chalmers) (BLD)
Today reveals Dunedin’s proud Scottish heart. Discover elegant Victorian buildings, visit the striking railway station and explore Baldwin Street, the steepest in the world. Nature lovers may head to the Otago Peninsula to see royal albatross and sea lions. Dunedin’s lively cafés and boutiques offer the perfect balance of heritage and charm.

Day 12. Fiordland National Park Scenic Cruising (BLD)
A day of awe awaits as Royal Princess slips through the deep, glacial waters of Fiordland. Gaze up at sheer cliffs draped in mist and cascading waterfalls, framed by the peaks of the Southern Alps. Glide through the world-famous Milford Sound, home to seals, dolphins and pristine wilderness. It is an unforgettable highlight of your voyage.

Day 13. Tasman Sea – Relax and Reflect (BLD)
After days of exploration, take time to rest and relive your adventures. Attend a wine pairing workshop, browse the onboard art gallery, or simply watch the ocean drift by. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner in one of the ship’s grand dining rooms.

Day 14. Tasman Sea – Final Day at Sea (BLD)
Your last full day aboard offers one more chance to indulge. Savour a leisurely breakfast, relax on deck, and perhaps treat yourself to high tea or a cocktail at sunset. Celebrate new friendships during a lively final show as the ship approaches the Australian coast.

Day 15. Sydney to Perth (B)
Welcome back to Sydney Harbour, where your voyage began. Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the airport for your flight home. Reflect on the extraordinary sights, sounds, and friendships made on this remarkable journey.

Itinerary is subject to change. Terms and conditions apply. Call 08 9754 2026 for details.

Guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

eg. BLD indicates three meals included on that day of the itinerary.



PPTW is per person twinshare accommodation.

Image Credit: Royal Princess Cruises

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Dates & Pricing

15 Days
4 to 18 December 2026

$5,320pptw

$1610 single option

Highlights

• Sydney sail-away past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge at sunset
• Ancient Māori culture and island paradise at the Bay of Islands
• Auckland’s harbours, volcanic landscapes and vibrant city life
• Marlborough wine region and spectacular coastal scenery from Picton
• English charm, riverside gardens and heritage beauty in Christchurch
• Dunedin’s Scottish history, stunning coastline and charming architecture
• Majestic Fiordland Sounds and towering waterfalls of Milford Sound
• Exceptional entertainment, world-class dining and ocean serenity aboard Royal Princess

Inclusions

• Pre and post tour transfers (ex Perth Western Australia)
• 41 meals
• 14 nights accommodation
• Cruise, flights and hotel in Sydney
• Professional Villa Tour Leader
• A scheduled pre-departure get together with your tour leader and fellow travellers
 

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Dates & Pricing

Duration: 15 Days

Dates:  4 to 18 December 2026

Activity Level: Active

$5,320pptw

$1610 single option

Earn: 89 villabucks

Highlights

• Sydney sail-away past the Opera House and Harbour Bridge at sunset
• Ancient Māori culture and island paradise at the Bay of Islands
• Auckland’s harbours, volcanic landscapes and vibrant city life
• Marlborough wine region and spectacular coastal scenery from Picton
• English charm, riverside gardens and heritage beauty in Christchurch
• Dunedin’s Scottish history, stunning coastline and charming architecture
• Majestic Fiordland Sounds and towering waterfalls of Milford Sound
• Exceptional entertainment, world-class dining and ocean serenity aboard Royal Princess

Inclusions

 • Pre and post tour transfers (ex Perth Western Australia)
• 41 meals
• 14 nights accommodation
• Cruise, flights and hotel in Sydney
• Professional Villa Tour Leader
• A scheduled pre-departure get together with your tour leader and fellow travellers

Itinerary

Your holiday itinerary (ex Perth, Western Australia)

Day 1. Perth to Sydney (D)
Your journey begins with a warm Villa welcome as we collect you from home and transfer you to the airport. On arrival in Sydney, enjoy a smooth transfer to your harbourside hotel. Settle in and relax after your flight, before gathering for a delicious dinner overlooking Darling Harbour, where city lights dance on the water.
One night: Novotel Darling Harbour.

Day 2. Sydney Embarkation (BLD)
After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning stroll or coffee by the harbour before boarding Royal Princess. As you sail out past the Opera House and beneath the Harbour Bridge, watch Sydney’s glittering skyline fade behind you. Sip champagne on deck as the ship glides through the Heads and into the open Pacific, your grand adventure has begun.
Thirteen nights: Royal Princess Cruise Stateroom.

Day 3. At Sea – Discover Your Ship (BLD)
Today you can truly unwind. Explore the elegant piazza, relax by the pool with a book, or join a cooking demonstration. There is so much to enjoy on board, from live music and art auctions to afternoon tea served with ocean views. This evening, dine in one of the speciality restaurants before catching a Broadway-style show.

Day 4. At Sea – Pampering and Pleasures (BLD)
Wake to the gentle rhythm of the sea. Perhaps start the day with a yoga session or a stroll along the deck before breakfast. Treat yourself to a spa treatment at the Lotus Spa or a refreshing pool swim. By evening, settle under the stars for an outdoor movie on the big screen, a signature Royal Princess experience.

Day 5. At Sea – Tastes and Tunes (BLD)
Savour another relaxing day at sea. Indulge in fresh seafood or try a new dish from the international buffet. Browse the onboard boutiques, take part in a quiz, or simply watch the endless blue horizon from your private balcony. Tonight, enjoy live music in the atrium before a moonlit walk on deck.

Day 6. Bay of Islands, New Zealand (BLD)
Step ashore into a slice of paradise. The Bay of Islands welcomes you with golden beaches, lush forests and a deep connection to Māori culture. Visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, wander through the historic seaside town of Russell, or take a cruise to see playful dolphins. Every corner of this region is alive with natural beauty and history.

Day 7. Auckland, New Zealand (BLD)
Dock in Auckland, the “City of Sails”, surrounded by sparkling harbours and volcanic hills. Explore the vibrant waterfront precincts, sample local cuisine at the markets, or visit the Auckland Museum for insight into New Zealand’s heritage. For wine lovers, a ferry trip to Waiheke Island offers boutique vineyards and scenic views.

Day 8. At Sea – Across the Cook Strait (BLD)
As Royal Princess cruises south, spend the day however you please, perhaps learning about New Zealand through an onboard lecture, joining a dance class, or simply admiring the endless expanse of blue. In the evening, share stories over dinner as the ship sails towards the South Island.

Day 9. Picton and Marlborough Sounds (BLD)
Wake to emerald hills and turquoise inlets as you glide into Queen Charlotte Sound. From Picton, venture into the world-famous Marlborough wine region for tastings and garden visits. Discover charming Blenheim or enjoy a leisurely harbour stroll. This region’s wines and scenery perfectly capture the spirit of New Zealand’s South Island.

Day 10. Lyttelton for Christchurch (BLD)
Sail into Lyttelton Harbour, gateway to graceful Christchurch, the “Garden City”. Ride along the Avon River, wander through Hagley Park and visit the Botanic Gardens, filled with roses in summer bloom. Enjoy the city’s innovative architecture, rebuilt with creativity after the earthquakes and admire its proud English heritage before returning to the ship.

Day 11. Dunedin (Port Chalmers) (BLD)
Today reveals Dunedin’s proud Scottish heart. Discover elegant Victorian buildings, visit the striking railway station and explore Baldwin Street, the steepest in the world. Nature lovers may head to the Otago Peninsula to see royal albatross and sea lions. Dunedin’s lively cafés and boutiques offer the perfect balance of heritage and charm.

Day 12. Fiordland National Park Scenic Cruising (BLD)
A day of awe awaits as Royal Princess slips through the deep, glacial waters of Fiordland. Gaze up at sheer cliffs draped in mist and cascading waterfalls, framed by the peaks of the Southern Alps. Glide through the world-famous Milford Sound, home to seals, dolphins and pristine wilderness. It is an unforgettable highlight of your voyage.

Day 13. Tasman Sea – Relax and Reflect (BLD)
After days of exploration, take time to rest and relive your adventures. Attend a wine pairing workshop, browse the onboard art gallery, or simply watch the ocean drift by. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner in one of the ship’s grand dining rooms.

Day 14. Tasman Sea – Final Day at Sea (BLD)
Your last full day aboard offers one more chance to indulge. Savour a leisurely breakfast, relax on deck, and perhaps treat yourself to high tea or a cocktail at sunset. Celebrate new friendships during a lively final show as the ship approaches the Australian coast.

Day 15. Sydney to Perth (B)
Welcome back to Sydney Harbour, where your voyage began. Enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the airport for your flight home. Reflect on the extraordinary sights, sounds, and friendships made on this remarkable journey.

Itinerary is subject to change. Terms and conditions apply. Call 08 9754 2026 for details.

Image Credit: Royal Princess CruisesNew Paragraph

Guide:

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

eg. BLD indicates three meals included on that day of the itinerary.


PPTW is per person twinshare accommodation.

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Tour Activity Levels

With such a diverse collection of travel options, we want to ensure you choose the right holiday for you.


Our tour activity levels are a guide to the required fitness level for each of our holidays.


Look out for the feet when reading about a tour!

  • Relaxed

    Designed for travellers with lower mobility who can manage everyday movement independently. You must be able to embark and disembark coaches, trains, and other transport via steps, carry your own luggage, and walk short distances. Stairs may be encountered at times. Walking aids (sticks and walkers) are welcome. Travellers who bring a companion to help provide assistance may find these holidays suitable.

  • Moderate

    For travellers who walk confidently and unaided. In addition to Relaxed requirements, expect guided walking tours that may include gentle inclines and stair climbs, some longer days, and multiple hotel changes. Access to accommodation may involve stairs, short walks to facilities, and showers over baths. Walking sticks are welcome unless the tour includes overnight rail or cruising—please check with staff.

  • Active

    For travellers comfortable with full sightseeing days. Building on Moderate requirements, these tours feature more activities, extended periods of standing and walking, and nature-based excursions. You must be able to walk confidently over uneven surfaces at a steady pace, and negotiate busy transport terminals. Expect feature walks for up to 3 hours, and activities that may include small aircraft, vehicles, vessels and watercraft. Not suitable for travellers requiring walking aids or assistance from others.

  • Highly Active

    Requires good general fitness. Excursions will be over more difficult terrain and require a certain level of agility. You will be required to walk confidently for up to 3 hours over uneven surfaces including soft sand, rocky surfaces and creek crossing. Some itineraries will explore remote locations. No walkers allowed.

  • Challenging

    For travellers with a high level of fitness and previous outdoor experience. Building on Highly Active requirements, these tours involve full days of physical activity in remote or rugged locations that may be difficult to access. You must be able to walk confidently for 6 or more hours per day over multiple days while carrying a day pack and be comfortable walking in varied weather conditions. Not suitable for travellers using walking aids or requiring assistance.