How Long Does It Take to Cruise to New Zealand?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, you might be wondering how long it takes to cruise to this beautiful country. The answer, of course, depends on where you’re departing from and which ports of call your itinerary includes.

Cruising to New Zealand from Australia

If you’re departing from Australia, the journey to New Zealand can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days depending on your departure city and your destination in New Zealand. For example, a cruise from Sydney to Auckland typically takes around two days, while a journey from Melbourne to Dunedin can take up to five days.

Cruising to New Zealand from the United States

If you’re departing from the United States, the journey will generally take longer than if you’re leaving from Australia. Most cruises depart from either the west coast or Hawaii and stop at several ports in the South Pacific before arriving in New Zealand. Depending on your itinerary, the journey can take anywhere from two weeks to over a month.

Cruising Within New Zealand

Once you arrive in New Zealand, there are many options for cruising within the country. Some popular itineraries include:

  • Auckland to Bay of Islands: This short cruise takes just a few days and allows you to explore some of North Island’s most beautiful coastal areas.
  • South Island Explorer: This cruise takes passengers through stunning fjords and past towering glaciers along the South Island’s west coast.
  • Stewart Island Expedition: This small-ship adventure takes passengers around Stewart Island, an unspoiled wilderness area located off the southern coast of South Island.

Factors That Affect Cruise Length

There are several factors that can affect how long it takes to cruise to New Zealand. These include:

Departure port:

Depending on where you’re departing from, the journey to New Zealand can be longer or shorter.

Itinerary:

The more ports of call your itinerary includes, the longer your journey will be.

Weather conditions:

If you’re traveling during the winter months, you may encounter rough seas that slow down your journey.

Cruise ship speed:

Different cruise ships travel at different speeds, which can affect how long it takes to reach your destination.

In conclusion, the length of a cruise to New Zealand varies depending on where you’re departing from and which ports of call your itinerary includes. However, regardless of how long it takes to get there, a cruise to New Zealand is sure to be a memorable experience filled with stunning scenery and exciting adventures.