If you’re planning to explore Australia and New Zealand on a cruise, one of the things you need to consider is the best time to go. The weather, crowds, and prices can vary greatly depending on the season, so it’s important to choose the right time for your needs.
Best Time for Cruising Australia
Australia is a vast country with diverse climates, so the best time for cruising really depends on where you want to go. Here are some general guidelines:
Summer (December – February)
If you want to experience Australia’s famous beaches and warm weather, summer is the best time to go. The temperatures can range from 25-35°C (77-95°F) in most parts of the country, but it can get extremely hot in some areas like Darwin and northern Queensland. Keep in mind that this is also peak season for tourists, so prices can be high and ports can be crowded.
Fall (March – May)
Fall is a great time to go cruising in Australia because the weather is still warm but the crowds have thinned out. The temperatures are usually between 20-30°C (68-86°F), which makes it comfortable for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.
Winter (June – August)
Winter in Australia means cooler temperatures, but it’s still possible to go cruising during this time. If you’re interested in whale watching or skiing in Tasmania or Victoria, this could be a good time for you. Keep in mind that northern parts of the country like Darwin and Cairns will still be warm during winter.
Spring (September – November)
Spring is another great time to cruise Australia because the weather starts warming up but it’s still not too crowded. The temperatures are usually between 20-25°C (68-77°F) and there’s plenty of wildflowers and wildlife to see.
Best Time for Cruising New Zealand
New Zealand has a milder climate than Australia, but the weather can still vary greatly depending on the season. Here’s what you need to know:
Like Australia, summer is peak season for cruising in New Zealand. The temperatures are usually between 20-30°C (68-86°F), which makes it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing. Keep in mind that this is also the most expensive time to go cruising and ports can be crowded.
Fall is a great time to go cruising in New Zealand because the crowds have thinned out but the weather is still mild. The temperatures are usually between 15-20°C (59-68°F), which makes it comfortable for exploring cities like Auckland and Wellington.
Winter in New Zealand means cooler temperatures, but it’s still possible to go cruising during this time. If you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding, this could be a good time for you as there are several ski resorts on both North and South Island.
Spring is another great time to cruise New Zealand because the weather starts warming up but it’s still not too crowded. The temperatures are usually between 15-20°C (59-68°F) and there’s plenty of wildlife and nature to see.
- Tip: Keep in mind that New Zealand’s weather can be unpredictable no matter what season you choose. Pack layers so you can adjust to changing conditions.
The Bottom Line
The best time to cruise Australia and New Zealand really depends on your preferences and interests. If you want to avoid crowds and save money, consider going during the shoulder season.
If you want to experience warm weather and outdoor activities, go during the summer. And if you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding, go during the winter. Whatever season you choose, make sure to pack accordingly and enjoy your cruise!