New Zealand Christmas Cruise: Auckland to Melbourne (18 Dec 2026)
Enjoy a spectacular journey through New Zealand and Australia aboard the luxurious Azamara Pursuit, with drinks included. Your holiday begins with a relaxing 5-star stay in Auckland, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Step on board and sail along New Zealand’s stunning coastline, discovering Tauranga’s sun-soaked beaches, the bubbling geothermal wonders of Rotorua, Napier’s elegant Art Deco streets, and Wellington’s vibrant cultural scene. Christmas Day brings a truly magical experience as you cruise through the breathtaking landscapes of Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park.
The celebration continues as you cross the Tasman Sea to Hobart, where colonial charm and wild natural beauty await. Then, ring in the New Year in spectacular fashion in Sydney, with a front-row view of the world-famous fireworks over the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Spend New Year’s Day soaking up the best of the city—from golden beaches and harbourside walks to its diverse dining scene—bringing this extraordinary festive voyage to a perfect close.
🚢 17-Night Cruise & Stay | Azamara Pursuit
Departs 18 December 2026
Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including house spirits, wine and international beers
Prices (Per Person, Twin Share):
From $7,979pp – Inside
From $8,979pp – Ocean View
From $11,479pp – Verandah
Our team can also assist with booking your return International flight and accommodation as part of your overall travel plans as well as Travel Insurance.
Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice
Itinerary
| Arrive | Details | Depart | Day 1 | Auckland: Hotel Stay - Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, is a vibrant metropolis brimming with stunning harbours, cultural attractions, and a thriving culinary and bar scene. Explore its diverse neighbourhoods, iconic landmarks, and natural beauty for an unforgettable experience. Overnight: SO/ Auckland. | 12:00 | Day 2 | Auckland: Embark Ship - Embark the sleek Azamara Pursuit for your all-inclusive cruise. Once settled into your generous accommodation, get to know your fellow passengers on deck before exploring this stunning vessel’s restaurants and lounges. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 3 | Tauranga - Tauranga blends golden beaches with a vibrant harbour. Relax on the beach at Mount Maunganui, stroll the waterf ront, or wander McLaren Falls Park. As the gateway to the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga also opens the door to Rotorua’s steaming geysers and bubbling geothermal landscapes. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 4 | Napier - Napier, in New Zealand’s Hawke’s Bay, dazzles with its striking Art Deco architecture, rebuilt after the 1931 earthquake. Sun-soaked beaches, vibrant vineyards, and a lively waterf ront complement the city’s glorious galleries and charming cafés. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 5 | Wellington - Wind-swept yet welcoming, New Zealand’s capital brims with creativity and coastal charm. Nestled between rolling hills and a sparkling harbour, the city is alive with culture – world-leading film studios craft movie magic here, while museums and galleries showcase cultural treasures. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 6 | Christchurch - Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island blends resilience with creativity. Reborn after the 2010–11 earthquakes, its revitalised centre brims with modern architecture, lively markets, and bold street art. Stroll the tranquil Botanic Gardens or glide along the Avon River. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 7 | Dunedin - Arrive in Dunedin on Christmas Eve and delve into the town’s Scottish heritage, grand architecture, and cultural charm. A short journey away, the Otago Peninsula teems with wildlife, creating a truly remarkable destination to explore and treasure. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 8 | Milford Sound: Scenic Cruising & Christmas Day - Experience a Christmas Day like no other as you sail through the still waters of Fiordland National Park. On board your ship, dine on a sumptuous festive feast as you drift by towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil inlets. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 9-10 | Relax At Sea | Day 11-12 | Hobart: Overnight in Port - Hobart welcomes you with its deep-water harbour and historic charm. Wander Salamanca Place, where sandstone warehouses now hum with galleries, craft shops, and cafés. As the sun sets, the waterf ront comes alive with f resh seafood, fine wines, and laid-back charm. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 13 | Relax At Sea | Day 14 | Sydney: Overnight in Port & New Year's Eve - Sail into Sydney Harbour for New Year’s Eve and experience the celebration of a lifetime. Against the backdrop of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, you’ll toast midnight as fireworks ignite the sky and the water shimmers with colour and energy. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 15 | Sydney: Overnight in Port & New Year’s Day - Enjoy New Year’s Day against Sydney’s iconic backdrop, f rom the Opera House sails to Bondi’s golden sands. Harbour walks, bustling neighbourhoods, and vibrant dining scenes promise an unforgettable start to 2027. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 16 | Sydney - On your final day in Sydney, discover eclectic neighbourhoods, bustling markets, and cutting-edge galleries. From contemporary architecture to leafy parks and vibrant festivals, the city invites exploration and f resh perspectives. Meals Included: All-Inclusive Board Basis. Overnight: Azamara Pursuit. | Day 17 | Relax At Sea | Day 18 | Melbourne: Disembark Ship & Make Your Own Way - Home Your holiday complete, today you’ll disembark your ship before making your own way home. Meals Included: Breakfast. | 06:00 |
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Highlights
- Celebrate Christmas amid New Zealand’s stunning scenery.
- Welcome the New Year with Sydney’s iconic harbour fireworks.
- Enjoy an all-inclusive luxury cruise with dining, drinks & entertainment.
- Explore vibrant ports with curated shore excursions.
- Enjoy world-class entertainment and festive celebrations onboard.
- Relax in stylish accommodations with all-inclusive dining and drinks.
Inclusions
- 16 night all-inclusive cruise on board Azamara Pursuit
- Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including house spirits, wine and international beers
- Pre-paid gratuities and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings event
- Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations
- Overnights in port in Hobart and Sydney
- 1 night five-star stay in Auckland at the SO/ Auckland with breakfast
Exclusions
- Aifare
- Travel Insurance
- Visa
Fine Print
- Prices are subject to availability
- Fare includes all taxes and port charges
- Travel insurance not included; customers are advised to purchase appropriate cover after booking
- Itinerary is subject to change without notice
- Visas/ESTA’s are not included
All travellers must have a valid passport for international travel and many countries require at least 6 months validity from the date of return and some countries require a machine-readable passport.
Extras
TRAVEL ADVICE: We recommend that you contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or visit their website at www.smartraveller.gov.au for general travel advice, as well as specific advice (including safety alert levels) relating to the destination you wish to visit. You can also register your travel plans with DFAT, so that you may be more easily contacted in an emergency.
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