South Island, New Zealand Cruises

Uncover the Beauty of South Island, New Zealand with Cruise1st

Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems, South Island, New Zealand, is a destination that promises adventure at every turn. Imagine lush valleys, majestic mountains, and pristine fjords—this is the perfect playground for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike! Fun fact: South Island is home to Aoraki/Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand, standing at 3,724 metres! Why not explore this stunning region by cruise, where you can soak in the views from the deck, visit charming coastal towns, and dive right into exhilarating outdoor experiences? A cruise to South Island offers the convenience of visiting multiple sites without the hassle of multiple accommodations.

Major Cruise Lines Offering South Island Itineraries

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17, Princess has 6 ships offering itineraries to South Island, including the Island Princess and Discovery Princess. Known for their exceptional onboard experiences and engaging educational programs, these ships promise relaxation and enrichment. For cruisers from Australia, departures are conveniently available from Sydney or Brisbane, while international options can be found from Los Angeles or Fort Lauderdale.
• Holland America Line: Featuring a fleet of 11, Holland America offers 3 ships that navigate to South Island, including Noordam and Westerdam. These vessels are praised for their culinary excellence and enrichment programs that truly immerse guests in the local culture. Domestic departures from Sydney and international departure points like Auckland or Seattle provide great options for planning your adventure down south.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises: With a total fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean sails 3 vessels to South Island, including Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas. Renowned for their exciting onboard activities, these ships cater to families and adventurers alike. For Australian cruisers, departures from Sydney or Brisbane make it easy to set sail for an exploration of this magnificent region!
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian boasts a fleet of 20 ships, with 2 specifically offering itineraries to South Island—Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Sun. Known for their relaxed atmosphere and multitude of dining options, these ships offer something for everyone. Cruisers can set off from domestic ports like Sydney or Melbourne, or choose to depart from international ports like Auckland.
• Celebrity Cruises: Operating a fleet of 16 ships, Celebrity offers 1 cruising to South Island: the Celebrity Edge. Known for its modern luxury and innovative dining experiences, this ship is perfect for cruisers seeking a touch of elegance. Departures usually take place from Sydney for a seamless experience heading to South Island.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to South Island

• Seabourn: With 6 ships in total, Seabourn has 2 vessels cruising to South Island: Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn. Renowned for their intimate luxury cruising experience, both vessels offer fine dining and exceptional service. Depart from Sydney or choose from international ports like Auckland Islands or Los Angeles for a lavish adventure.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of just 4 ships, Azamara has 2 that sail to South Island—Azamara Pursuit and Azamara Onward. Known for immersive cultural experiences and longer port stays, their cruises allow you to truly savour each destination. Departures typically occur from Melbourne or international options from Auckland or San Diego.
• Silversea: Featuring a fleet of 12, Silversea has 2 ships that visit South Island, specifically Silver Nova and Silver Muse. With their all-inclusive luxury experience, guests enjoy exceptional service throughout their journey. Departure options are plentiful with domestic ports from Sydney or Melbourne, and international departures from Auckland or Singapore.
• Oceania Cruises: Comprising 8 vessels, Oceania has 3 ships offering itineraries to South Island—Regatta and Insignia among them. With a focus on culinary excellence paired with destination immersion, you'll find plenty to indulge in onboard. Departures can be arranged from domestic ports in Sydney or Fremantle, alongside international departures from Auckland or Miami.

Top Harbours to Visit in South Island, New Zealand

• Dunedin (Port Chalmers): Known for its Scottish heritage, Dunedin offers a charming mix of history and natural beauty. While docking here, visit the iconic Larnach Castle or take a scenic drive to the Otago Peninsula and spot the unique wildlife, including albatross and seal colonies. Don’t forget to explore the local cafés for some delectable food offerings!
• Picton: Nestled at the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, Picton is the gateway to stunning fjords and hiking trails. Cruise passengers can take a walk along the waterfront, hop on a ferry to Queen Charlotte Sound for magnificent views, or sample local Sauvignon Blanc in nearby vineyards. It's the perfect place to kick-start your adventure amidst breathtaking scenery!
• Milford Sound: A breathtaking highlight of your cruise, Milford Sound is known for its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls. While here, take a scenic cruise or kayak through the serene waters to get up close and personal with the natural beauty surrounding you. Keep an eye out for dolphins and seals that often make an appearance!
• Fiordland National Park: Home to some of New Zealand's most stunning landscapes, this UNESCO World Heritage site is teeming with adventure. Spend your time hiking along the numerous trails, or opt for a guided jet boat tour to explore the fjords. Ideal for photography, the terrain offers spectacular vistas at every corner.
• Lyttelton: A charming port town with a rich maritime history, Lyttelton is surrounded by scenic hills and offers delightful cafés and shops. While docked, consider taking the historic earthquake tram ride up to the Port Hills for panoramic views of the city and harbour. You might also enjoy a leisurely stroll through the local farmers' market, if timing permits!

When to Book Your Cruise to South Island, New Zealand

The seasons offer various charms when planning your cruise to South Island! From January to March, temperatures are warm, averaging between 20-30°C—perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic beauty. April to June brings mild weather at 10-20°C, along with beautiful autumn colours. July to September sees winter temperatures ranging from 5-15°C, offering a different perspective with snow-capped mountains. Finally, October to December warms up again to around 15-25°C, ideal for hiking and summer adventures.

Cost Overview for Cruises to South Island

For a one-week journey to South Island, expect prices to range from $1,500 to $2,800 AUD, while a two-week cruise can go from $2,800 to $5,500 AUD. For luxury cruising, a week typically starts around $5,000 AUD and can reach up to $10,000 AUD for two weeks. Dining costs onboard are usually included, but if you choose to dine onshore, expect local meals to start at $20 AUD, with drinks usually costing around $8-$15 AUD.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If you’re considering a cruise to South Island, you might want to explore these intriguing alternatives:

• North Island, New Zealand: A great companion to the South Island, featuring stunning landscapes, vibrant cities like Auckland, and historic sites. It's an ideal region for art lovers and culture starters.
• Australia: Just a stone's throw away, Australia offers rich culture, stunning beaches, and vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne. You can have the perfect combination of urban exploration and nature adventures.
• Fiji: Known for its stunning beaches and warm, turquoise waters, Fiji is perfect for relaxation and beautiful tropical experiences. Perfect for sunseekers!
• South Pacific: With its diverse islands and cultures, the South Pacific is perfect for exploring while enjoying breathtaking natural beauty and local traditions.
• Adriatic Sea: If you fancy rich history and quaint coastal towns, look no further than the Adriatic where you can explore stunning destinations like Dubrovnik and Venice.

Ready to embark on your exploration of South Island, New Zealand? Cruise1st is here to help you find the perfect cruise! Dive into unforgettable experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and a journey that you will cherish for a lifetime.