Sail across the Tasman Sea to New Zealand, where Maori legends, steaming volcanic lakes, penguins and hobbits add to the magical landscape. With plenty of optional shore excursions available, you can witness the incredible beauty at the many and various ports of call such as Newcastle, Dunedin, Christchurch, Napier, Tauranga, Auckland, and Bay of Islands as well as scenic cruising at Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sound and Fjordland National Park.
In the university city of Dunedin, consider an excursion aboard Taieri Gorge Railway or a visit to Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. In Christchurch, try a spot of punting on the River Avon or perhaps visit the Antarctic Centre where it’s possible to ride aboard a Hagglund over-snow vehicle.
In Napier, discover a city rebuilt in the Art Deco style after an earthquake in 1930. In Tauranga, enjoy the beaches and make a beeline to Te Puke, home of Kiwi 360. Explore and shop in the leafy Auckland suburbs of Parnell and Ponsonby. In the Bay of Islands, be sure to take an eco-cruise - for this region is best seen up close. Whatever you do, though, don’t leave New Zealand without trying the local delicacy - a meat pie curiously stuffed with cheese.
Experience the first revolutionary Edge Series ship—Celebrity Edge. Enjoy luxurious staterooms, cuisine, and service. From the incredible new Magic Carpet to the private plunge pools in 2-story Edge Villas, this is one of the most refined ships at sea. The unique outward-facing design breaks from traditional ship design. Aboard, you will feel more connected with the sea and the places you will visit at spaces ranging from Edge Staterooms with Infinite Verandas to the reimagined, terraced pool deck that offers views of land and sea.
Crafted by Michelin-starred chefs, 29 unique food and beverage experiences will delight your taste buds. Quality entertainment, unique venues such as a rooftop park and the Magic Carpet, glamorous bars, and public spaces will offer you space to relax. A 25-yard lap pool, gym, hot tubs, and spa will keep your mind and body in tune. And shoppers will love the array of shops onboard.
Sydney to Newcastle and scenic cruising through Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sound
Day 1 Sydney
Depart 5pm
Considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney offers so much—from beaches and wineries to stunning landmarks and world-class shopping. Tour architectural marvels like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge, view life below the surface from Sydney Aquarium’s underwater walkways, or take it all in from above on a tour of the Sydney Tower. Explore lively pubs, shops, and historic buildings at The Rocks, located on Sydney harbour.
Day 2 Newcastle
Arrive 9am, Depart 6pm
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until you arrive at the next amazing destination.
Day 5 Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound
Scenic cruising
Milford Sound
As you sail into the narrow fjords of the Milford Sound, even your massive ship seems to shrink in comparison to the towering cliffs topped by lush mountain terrain. Situated within Fiordland National Park, this natural wonder is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site and is protected by its natural geography, which makes it a haven for all types of wildlife.
Doubtful Sound
As cold mountain water cascades from the cliffs above Doubtful Sound, it creates an unusual phenomenon-a dual-layered marine ecosystem of fresh and saltwater. This serves as a playground for a number of species, including fur seals and two types of penguins - the fiordland crested and blue penguin.
Dusky Sound
Steep cliffs that have been carved over centuries by dozens of waterfalls surround the largest and most complex of the many fjords along the New Zealand coast, Dusky Sound. It's also a wildlife paradise, with seals and dolphins patrolling the water, and birds like broad billed prions, mottled petrels and sooty shearwaters floating on the overhead thermals.
Dunedin and Christchurch
Day 6 Dunedin
Arrive 9, Depart 7pm
Here in this capital of architectural heritage, you might think your Dunedin cruise had taken you to Edinburgh. The architecture, scenery, and culture—if not the accents—borrow heavily from those in Scotland.
Day 7 Christchurch
Arrive 7:30am, Depart 5pm
At the centre of town is Christchurch Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.
Napier, Tauranga, Auckland
Day 8 Napier
Arrive 12:30pm, Depart 3pm
Discover Art Deco architecture, an alluring seaside town, and some of Hawke’s Bay’s finest wineries. Napier’s devastating 1931 earthquake resulted in a magnificent rebuilding effort that makes the city home to the greatest density of Art Deco buildings in the world. Stroll along Napier’s lovely streets and admire the architecture characterized by bold symmetrical shapes, linearity balanced by gentle curves, and sometimes intricate ornamentation. Visit lovely cafés, restaurants, and shops as you explore Napier’s seaside sights. Enjoy a beer, or fish and chips. Take a traditional tea break and sample a Pavlova, a New Zealand dessert of meringue and fresh fruit. Journey outside the city to explore some of New Zealand’s most spectacular wine vintages in Hawke’s Bay. Tour the wineries and enjoy exclusive wine tastings. Bird watchers and eco-tourists can visit Cape Kidnappers to admire the world’s largest gannet nesting site. Explore sheep farms, lush coastal scenery, mountain top lookouts, or just sit back and relax at a café in Napier, taking in the ambiance of another era.
Day 9 Tauranga
Arrive 10:45am, Depart 9:30pm
Explore this chic coastal town in the North Island and you’ll discover the land of the Māori. Tauranga’s white sand beaches offer something for everyone. Relax and sunbathe on one of New Zealand’s most beautiful and popular coasts. Take a dip in the ocean or immerse yourself in a lush waterfall swimming hole. Watch dolphins frolic in the waves or swim with these lovable creatures. Learn to sail, try surfing, take a diving lesson, or refine your fishing technique. Water activities abound in Tauranga. If you’re a landlubber, you can tee up at a golf course on your Tauranga cruise or stroll down The Strand where you can enjoy cafés and a vibrant nightlife. Journey to charming waterfalls or board one of the many eco-cruises available in the Bay of Plenty. Sometimes called the New Zealand Riviera, downtown Tauranga offers galleries, shops, history, and a vibrant café and restaurant scene. The culinary culture brings together innovative chefs working in diverse traditions. Enjoy Italian, Indian, Turkish, Thai, French, and fusion flavours. Sip a hand-crafted drink or enjoy fresh-caught seafood from the Bay of Plenty. From casual al fresco dining to sophisticated New Zealand Riviera gastronomy, Tauranga offers something to tantalize every taste.
Day 10 Auckland
Arrive 8:30am, Depart 9pm
Experience New Zealand's most cosmopolitan city—a melting pot of British, Asian, Pacific, and Māori cultures. Your cruise from Auckland allows you to sample their diverse arts, entertainment, and traditions. he Auckland Art Gallery has collected more than 15,000 paintings, sculptures, and prints, dating from 1376. Other attractions to visit include the Auckland War Memorial Museum, New Zealand Maritime Museum, National Museum of the Royal New Zealand Navy, and Museum of Transport and Technology.
Bay of Islands to Sydney
Day 11 Bay of Islands
Arrive 7am, Depart 5pm
Days 12-13
At Sea
While at sea, take the time to recharge before the next adventure. Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, taste the delicacies or explore the venues on-board, until you arrive back in Sydney.
Day 14 Sydney
Arrive 6:30am
13 night New Zealand cruise from Sydney return
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Standard full deposit penalty is applied if booking is cancelled within final payment period; see CEL’s cancellation policy for details. Non-Refundable Deposit: To qualify for the lowest available cruise fare, guest must choose a non-refundable deposit. Non-refundable deposit bookings (“NRDB”) cancelled prior to final payment due date will receive a future cruise credit in the amount of the deposit minus a $100 per person service fee. This FCC is non-transferable and expires 12-months from the issue date. In addition to cancelled NRDB, $100 per person service fee also applies to changes to NRDB ship or sail date. NRDB are applicable to groups at prevailing rates. Not applicable to incentive, contract, or charter groups. Non-refundable deposit offers are applicable to sailings within final payment, however full deposit is due at time of booking. BOGO 60% Off 2nd and 4th Guest Offer are for Refundable fares only. Applies to new, individual bookings during the Offer Period and provides Up to 60% off cruise fare on the 2nd guest and 4th guest only in the same stateroom as the first and third full fare guest sailing at standard rates on an Offer Cruise. BOGO 75% Off 2nd and 4th Guest Offer are for Non-Refundable fares only. Applies to new, individual bookings during the Offer Period and provides Up to 75% off cruise fare on the 2nd guest and 4th guest only in the same stateroom as the first and third full fare guest sailing at standard rates on an Offer Cruise. All Included applies to inside, ocean view, veranda, or Concierge Class staterooms who book with the All Included Rate (“Eligible Bookings”). All guests in an Eligible Booking who choose the “All Included” pricing package will receive a Classic Drink Package, Service Charges Included, and an unlimited Basic Wi-Fi package. All guests in an AquaClass stateroom will receive a Classic Drink Package, Service Charges Included and an unlimited Basic Wi-Fi Package. All guests in The Retreat will receive a Premium Drink Package, Service charges Included, OBC and a Premium Wi-Fi package. ^OBC Offer: - Cruise onboard credit (“OBC”) amounts are per person, and vary by sailing length and departure date: 3 to 5 Nights $50 OBC pp; 6 to 9 Nights $100 OBC pp; 10 Nights and longer $200 OBC pp. Guest’s onboard account will be credited with an OBC. OBC has no cash value, is applicable to cruise only, non-transferable, not redeemable for cash, and will expire if not used by 10:00 PM on the final night of the cruise. Onboard credit may not be used in the onboard medical centre or casino. For full terms and conditions please speak to your travel expert at RAA.
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Leisurely pace with increased walking on uneven ground and cobblestone surfaces, climbing and descending stairs, plus standing for a reasonable length of time in museums or at points of interest. You must be able to get on/off transportation unassisted, manage distances at airports and railway stations without assistance, and handle your luggage as required. Please note: Whilst most cruises (apart from active expedition cruises) feature moderate activity, many smaller ships and river cruise ships have extensive stairways and no elevators. Ask your RAA Travel sales consultant for up-to-date information on river or ocean cruise ship accessibility. Please carefully consider your ability to meet the physical demands of the tour.