With its stunning coastline, lakes and fiords, New Zealand is best explored by boat. From relaxing cruises to beautiful journeys, it’s a great way to enjoy the scenic landscapes of the country. Here are some cruise experiences worth checking out!
Start in Northland, where the Bay of Islands offers some of the country’s best adventures. Cruise through over clear blue water, enjoy a picnic on an island and see dolphins along the way. Further south, Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf is perfect for sailing. With its calm waters and numerous islands, it’s ideal for catamaran trips or day cruises. In the central North Island, the Lake Taupo offers boat trips to the Mine Bay Maori rock carvings, which you can see from the lake. A few cruises also offer fishing for the popular rainbow trout. On the east coast, Gisborne is known for its Maori culture, great food, wineries and beaches. Finally, Wellington, New Zealand’s capital, has a pretty harbour surrounded by hills. Cruise the water, visit galleries, boutique shops, or the national museum Te Papa!
Cruising through New Zealand’s South Island allows you to experience its stunning landscapes and wildlife. Start in the Marlborough Sounds, where over 1500 km of coastline reveals secluded bays, marine reserves and island sanctuaries that protect native species like the kiwi. Here, you can enjoy a seafood cruise with fresh salmon and mussels, or spot dolphins and seals on a wildlife tour. Further south in Fiordland, the iconic Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound offer amazing views of towering cliffs, deep blue water and waterfalls like the Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls. Many cruises offer great panoramic and observatories with chances to see penguins, dolphins and sometimes whales. In Queenstown, cruises on Lake Wakatipu give you views of The Remarkables mountain range, with some tours including a swim and picnic when the weather is right. For a classic Queenstown experience, take the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw across the lake for dinner at Walter Peak Station!