1. Overview of New Zealand Cruises
New Zealand is an amazing country to visit, featuring spectacular scenery, incredible natural wonders, and unique wildlife. With two large islands and many smaller ones, cruises are ideal for exploring the beauty of New Zealand.
2. Popular Cruise Options
Most cruises cover both the North and South Islands of New Zealand. Additionally, some expedition ships, like the Silversea Silver Discoverer, include the sub-Antarctic islands in their itineraries. A popular option is to circumnavigate the South Island, where you can experience settings such as:
- Touring Dusky, Doubtful, and Milford Sounds in magnificent Fiordland
- Hiking at Motuara Island sanctuary to see various birds, including penguins
- Visiting the historic Cook Monument at Ship Cove or hiking famous trails
- Tasting delectable wines at a Marlborough winery
- Exploring marine life and taking scenic cliff walks at Kaikoura Bay
- Discovering the towns of Picton, Christchurch, and Dunedin.
3. Fiordland National Park
Fiordland, located in the southwest corner of the South Island, is a region of breathtaking scenery and rich wildlife, covered by over 4,800 square miles of Fiordland National Park. Featuring 134 miles of shoreline and 14 fiords, exploring this area by ship is truly unparalleled.
4. Dusky Sound
Dusky Sound is the longest fiord in Fiordland, stretching 25 miles inland and five miles wide at its broadest point, making it accessible to large cruise ships. A notable stop includes Captain Cook’s old camp, known as astronomer’s point, which has historical significance in navigation history.
5. Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound, the second fiord accessible to cruise ships, is characterized by its challenging entry and incredible tranquility. With towering cliffs and spectacular waterfalls, this location is ideal for serene experiences away from the crowds.
6. Milford Sound
Milford Sound, despite being officially a bay, is renowned as New Zealand’s most famous tourist destination. It can be reached by boat or small plane and is celebrated for its stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and breathtaking landscapes, including the iconic Mitre Peak.
7. The Marlborough Sounds and Motuara Island
While not in Fiordland, the Marlborough Sounds on the northeast coast of the South Island boast numerous islands and scenic coves. Motuara Island, a predatory-free wildlife sanctuary, attracts visitors with its vibrant birdlife and beautiful trails.
8. Cook Monument at Ship Cove
Located at Ship Cove, the Captain Cook Monument commemorates the explorer’s time in New Zealand and provides a serene location for relaxation and exploration.
9. Hiking in Ship Cove
Ship Cove offers several walking trails and connects to the Queen Charlotte Track, a 44-mile route perfect for hikers seeking stunning views and natural beauty.
10. Marlborough Vineyards
The Marlborough wine region is recognized for producing exceptional Sauvignon Blanc and is a short drive from the cruise ports in Picton. Wine tours in this area provide an opportunity to sample exquisite wines while learning about the region’s viticultural history.
11. Kaikoura Bay
Kaikoura is a vibrant tourist destination famous for its remarkable marine life. The warm and nutrient-rich waters attract a variety of sea creatures, making whale-watching tours a fantastic choice for visitors.
12. Towns to Explore
Dunedin, Christchurch, and Picton serve as excellent starting points for circumnavigation cruises of the South Island. Each of these towns offers rich history, beautiful landscapes, and plenty of attractions to explore.
In summary, cruising around New Zealand’s South Island allows travelers to witness its unique natural wonders, captivating wildlife, and stunning landscapes. No matter the stops along the way, New Zealand remains a mesmerizing cruise destination.
