New Zealand Holiday Cruise/Ovation of the Seas
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Ovation of the Seas

New Zealand Holiday Cruise - 10 night cruise



Cruise only from €2,616

Price based on lowest available cruise only fare for double occupancy. Subject to change at any time.


Description

Highlights

Gratuities

Dates and Prices

Cabins

Your Alaska adventure hits a high point.

Pioneer America's last frontier onboard one of the world's most groundbreaking ships, Ovation of the Seas®, the biggest boldest ship to ever sail Alaska. It's scenery scoping from the unrivalled perspective of North Star® – the highest vantage point on any cruise ship. Edge-of-your-seat entertainment, game-changing family fun you can enjoy in any climate and breathtaking vistas from every stateroom – even interior staterooms offer real-time views from a Virtual Balcony℠. All between unforgettable destinations from Juneau to Skagway. No other cruise ship lets you see Alaska like this.

Cruise ID: 3329

RipCord by iFLY – the first skydiving experience at sea which allows everyone from first-time flyers to seasoned skydivers – to enjoy the sheer thrill and exhilaration of skydiving in a safe, controlled environment.

North Star – an engineering marvel that takes guests to new heights in a jewel-shaped glass capsule that gently rises more than 300 feet in the air, taking guests on a spectacular journey and delivering awe-inspiring, 360-degree views.

Smart Check-in – To make your holiday as easy as possible RCI have introduced smart check in, RFID WOW bands and internet speeds that match broadband connections onshore thanks to dedicated satellites making it easy to stay in touch with home All these features makes the Quantum Class ships the first SMARTships at sea. The onboard technology is fun as well as functional with Robotic bartenders in the Bionic Bar and Xbox Live capabilities so you can play against people all over the world.

The automatic service gratuity is $14.50 USD per person, per day for guests in Junior Suites and below, or $17.50 USD per person, per day for guests in Grand Suites and above, applied to each guest's SeaPass account on a daily basis. The gratuity applies to individual guests of all ages and stateroom categories. As a way to reward our crew members for their outstanding service, gratuities are shared among dining, bar & culinary services staff, stateroom attendants and other hotel services teams who work behind the scenes to enhance the cruise experience.

In the unlikely event that a guest onboard being charged the daily automatic gratuity does not receive satisfactory service, the guest may request to modify the daily amount at their discretion by visiting Guest Services onboard and will be able to do so until the morning of their departure. Guests who have pre-paid their gratuity will not see a daily charge during their cruise.

The automatic daily gratuity is based on customary industry standards. Applying this charge automatically helps streamline the recognition process for the crew members that work to enhance your cruise. We hope you find the gratuity to be an accurate reflection of your satisfaction and thank you for your generous recognition of our staff.

A 18% gratuity is automatically added to all beverages, mini bar items, and spa & salon purchases.

Guests can pre-pay gratuities by calling (UK) 0344 493 4005 / (Ireland) 1800 555 604 or logging into www.royalcaribbean.co.uk before* their sailing. For guests booked through travel advisors, their advisor may add pre-paid gratuities to the guests' booking prior to sailing*. If gratuities are not prepaid prior to sailing, they will be automatically added to the guests' folios once onboard.

*Pre-paid gratuities can be added to an individual reservation at any time outside of 48 hours of the sail date.

Date Time Price * Booking
18 December 2024 18:45 €2,616 Call us to book
28 December 2024 17:00 €2,636 Call us to book

* Price based on lowest available cruise only fare for double occupancy. Subject to change at any time.

Cabins on Ovation of the Seas

Ocean View
1-4

Gaze at the beautiful views from your cosy room.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View Balcony
1-4

Experience a spectacular view for a memorable holiday.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Interior with Virtual Balcony
1-4

Enjoy a live feed scenic view in the comfort of your room.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Real-time ocean views and destinations via a high-definition screen
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Junior Suite
1-5

An incredible intimate suite with a great view.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 and 5 guests
  • One Pullman bed in staterooms with up to five guests
  • Up to 5 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Some staterooms have an obstructed view
  • Bedroom area
  • Sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom with tub

Sea Class Exclusives* (not applicable for China and Hong Kong sailings)

  • Dinner at Coastal Kitchen
  • Royal Caribbean Classic Bathrobes for Use On Board
  • Luxury Pillowtop Mattress
  • Luxury Bathroom Facilities by L'Occitane
  • And more

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Pullman Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Connecting Interior
1-2

Enjoy your vacation in the perfect space.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • Up to 2 guests
  • Room with bed and vanity
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Vanity Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View Stateroom Guarantee
3-4

Our Ocean View staterooms offer a gorgeous view, two twin beds and a private bathroom.

  • 2 twin beds (can convert to a Royal King, measuring 184 cm (72.5 in) wide by 208 cm (82 in) long)
  • Select rooms include Pullman beds
  • Size: Varies by ship
  • 3-4 guests

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Pullman Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View with Large Balcony
1-4

Experience a spectacular view for a memorable holiday from your comfortable balcony.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Some staterooms have an obstructed view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Obstructed Ocean View Balcony
1-4

Enjoy the ocean sounds from your private balcony and sitting area.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Obstructed ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony Guarantee
2-4

Vast views of the landscapes, seascapes and skies are yours to enjoy from your private balcony.

  • 2 twin beds (can convert to a Royal King, measuring 184 cm (72.5 in) wide by 208 cm (82 in) long)
  • Size: Varies by ship
  • 2-4 guests

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Spacious Ocean View
1-4

Have a spectacular view for a memorable holiday.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 guests
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Room with bed, dresser and sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Sky Junior Suite
1-5

Our standard Junior Suite with extra perks

Sky Class amenities:

Size

  • Stateroom: 267 sq. ft.
  • Balcony: 81 sq. ft.

Beds

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed in staterooms with up to 4 and 5 guests
  • One Pullman bed in staterooms with up to 5 guests

Occupancy

  • Up to 5 guests

Sky Class Exclusives

  • Dinner at Coastal Kitchen, based on availability*
  • Royal Caribbean Classic Bathrobes for Use Onboard
  • Luxury Pillow Top Mattress
  • Luxury Bathroom Amenities
*Reservations are required. Beverages are not included.

Views

  • Ocean view
  • Some staterooms have obstructed view

Rooms

  • Bedroom area
  • Sitting area with sofa

Bathrooms

  • One bathroom with tub

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Vanity Area
  • Shower
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk
  • Exclusive

Spa Oceanview Large Balcony
1-2

Experience a tranquil and relaxing room with a beautiful view.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • Up to 2 guests
  • Ocean View
  • Bedroom area
  • Sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Grand Loft Suite
1-4

Spectacular two-floor loft with private balcony, dining and living areas and more.

  • King size bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Open living and dining room on main level
  • Master bedroom and bathroom on second level.
  • Private balcony with dining area
  • One bathroom on main level
  • Master bathroom with shower and two sinks on the second level

Star Class Exclusives* (not applicable for China and Hong Kong sailings)

  • Royal Genie Service
  • All Day Access to Suites-Only Coastal Kitchen
  • Complimentary Ultimate Beverage Package (for guests 21 years or older)
  • Complimentary Royal Replenish Package (for guests under 21 years old)
  • Still and Sparkling Water Replenished Daily
  • Complimentary Gratuities
  • Complimentary VOOM - The Fastest Internet at Sea
  • And more

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Dining Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Whirlpool Bath
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Desk
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Butler Service
  • Telephone

Sky Loft Suite
1-4

Contemporary two-floor loft with private balcony, dining and living areas, and more.

  • King size bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Open living and dining room on main level
  • Master bedroom and bathroom on second level.
  • Private balcony with dining area
  • One bathroom on main level
  • Master bathroom with shower and two sinks on the second level

Sky Class Exclusives* (not applicable for China and Hong Kong sailings)

  • Priority Boarding
  • Suite Lounge/Concierge Club Access
  • VOOM Surf+Stream – High Speed Internet for one device per person
  • Complimentary 24-Hour Room Service
  • Complimentary ironing on the first formal night
  • Bridge, Galley, Backstage tours
  • VIP Pool Deck Seating
  • and more

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • Dining Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Desk
  • Sofa Bed
  • Telephone

Owner's Suite - 1 Bedroom
1-4

Enjoy the ultimate suite for a perfect holiday.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Bedroom area
  • Living area with dining table and sitting area
  • Private balcony with a seating area and private dining
  • Master bathroom with tub and two sinks
  • Half bathroom

Sky Class Exclusives* (not applicable for China and Hong Kong sailings)

  • Concierge Service
  • All Day Access to Suites-Only Coastal Kitchen
  • Speciality Bottled Water (upon arrival)
  • Complimentary VOOM - The Fastest Internet at Sea
  • Priority Boarding & Departure
  • Priority Reservations
  • And more

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Desk
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Dining Area
  • Telephone

Grand Suite - 1 Bedroom
1-4

Enjoy a comfortable suite and the extra perks.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Bedroom area
  • Living room with sitting area and writing desk
  • Private balcony with a seating area and private dining
  • One bathroom with tub and two sinks (access from living room and bedroom)

Sky Class Exclusives* (not applicable for China and Hong Kong sailings)

  • Concierge Service
  • All Day Access to Suites-Only Coastal Kitchen
  • Speciality Bottled Water (upon arrival)
  • Complimentary VOOM - The Fastest Internet at Sea
  • Priority Boarding & Departure
  • Priority Reservations
  • And more

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Grand Suite with Large Balcony - 1 Bedroom
1-4

Enjoy a comfortable suite, larger balcony and extra perks.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Some staterooms have an obstructed view
  • Bedroom area
  • Living room with sitting area and writing desk
  • Private balcony with a seating area and private dining
  • One bathroom with tub and two sinks (access from living room and bedroom)

Sky Class Exclusives* (not applicable for China and Hong Kong sailings)

  • Concierge Service
  • All Day Access to Suites-Only Coastal Kitchen
  • Speciality Bottled Water (upon arrival)
  • Complimentary VOOM - The Fastest Internet at Sea
  • Priority Boarding & Departure
  • Priority Reservations
  • And more

Facilities

  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Junior Suite with Large Balcony
1-4

Enjoy a great view from your spacious balcony.

  • Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed
  • One double sofa bed
  • Up to 4 guests
  • Ocean view
  • Some staterooms have an obstructed view
  • Bedroom area
  • Sitting area with sofa
  • One bathroom with tub

Sea Class Exclusives* (not applicable for China and Hong Kong sailings)

  • Dinner at Coastal Kitchen
  • Royal Caribbean Classic Bathrobes for Use On Board
  • Luxury Pillowtop Mattress
  • Luxury Bathroom Facilities by L'Occitane
  • And more

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Sofa Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Bath
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • Suite Benefits
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

Interior Stateroom Guarantee
2-4

This standard stateroom offers two twin beds, a private bathroom and all the facilities of our standard staterooms.

  • 2 twin beds (can convert to a Royal King, measuring 184 cm (72.5 in) wide by 208 cm (82 in) long)
  • Pullman beds
  • Size: Varies by ship
  • 2-4 guests

Facilities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Pullman Bed
  • Lounge Area
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • Room Service Available
  • TV
  • Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk

View Itinerary By Date



Day 1 Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Sydney belongs to the exclusive club of cities that generate excitement. At the end of a marathon flight there's renewed vitality in the cabin as the plane circles the city, where thousands of yachts are suspended on the dark water and the sails of the Opera House glisten in the distance. Blessed with dazzling beaches and a sunny climate, Sydney is among the most beautiful cities on the planet.With 4.6 million people, Sydney is the biggest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia. A wave of immigration from the 1950s has seen the Anglo-Irish immigrants who made up the city's original population joined by Italians, Greeks, Turks, Lebanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thais, and Indonesians. This intermingling has created a cultural vibrancy and energy—and a culinary repertoire—that was missing only a generation ago.Sydneysiders embrace their harbor with a passion. Indented with numerous bays and beaches, Sydney Harbour is the presiding icon for the city, and urban Australia. Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the 11-ship First Fleet, wrote in his diary when he first set eyes on the harbor on January 26, 1788: "We had the satisfaction of finding the finest harbor in the world."Although a visit to Sydney is an essential part of an Australian experience, the city is no more representative of Australia than Los Angeles is of the United States. Sydney has joined the ranks of the great cities whose characters are essentially international. What Sydney offers is style, sophistication, and great looks—an exhilarating prelude to the continent at its back door.

Days 2-3  Cruising

Day 4 Picton, New Zealand

The maritime township of Picton (population 4,000) lies at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound and is the arrival point for ferries from the North Island, as well as a growing number of international cruise ships. It plays a major role in providing services and transport by water taxi to a multitude of remote communities in the vast area of islands, peninsulas, and waterways that make up the Marlborough Sounds Maritime Park. There's plenty to do in town, with crafts markets in summer, historical sights to see, and walking tracks to scenic lookouts over the sounds. The main foreshore is lined by London Quay, which looks up Queen Charlotte Sound to the bays beyond. High Street runs down to London Quay from the hills, and between them these two streets make up the center of town.

Day 5 Napier, New Zealand

The earthquake that struck Napier at 10:46 am on February 3, 1931, was—at 7.8 on the Richter scale—the largest quake ever recorded in New Zealand. The coastline was wrenched upward several feet. Almost all the town's brick buildings collapsed; many people were killed on the footpaths as they rushed outside. The quake triggered fires throughout town, and with water mains shattered, little could be done to stop the blazes that devoured the remaining wooden structures. Only a few buildings survived (the Public Service Building with its neoclassical pillars is one), and the death toll was well over 100.The surviving townspeople set up tents and cookhouses in Nelson Park, and then tackled the city's reconstruction at a remarkable pace. In the rush to rebuild, Napier went mad for art deco, the bold, geometric style that had burst on the global design scene in 1925. Now a walk through the art deco district, concentrated between Emerson, Herschell, Dalton, and Browning streets, is a stylistic immersion. The decorative elements are often above the ground floors, so keep your eyes up.

Day 6 Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch is one of New Zealand's most English cities. The Anglisation of the area is quickly evident throughout. The name Christchurch, is named after one of the most famous Oxford Colleges. Traditional English styled punts can be seen drifting lazily along the Avon River, and customary striped blazers are still worn by students at Christ's College.

Day 7 Dunedin, New Zealand

Clinging to the walls of the natural amphitheater at the west end of Otago Harbour, the South Island's second-largest city is enriched with inspiring nearby seascapes and wildlife. Because Dunedin is a university town, floods of students give the city a vitality far greater than its population of 122,000 might suggest. Its manageable size makes it easy to explore on foot—with the possible exception of Baldwin Street, the world's steepest residential street and home to the annual "gutbuster" race, in which people run up it, and the "Jaffa" race, in which people roll the namesake spherical chocolate candy down it.Dunedin, the Gaelic name for Edinburgh, was founded in 1848 by settlers of the Free Church of Scotland, a breakaway group from the Presbyterian Church. The city's Scottish roots are still visible; you'll find New Zealand's first and only (legal) whisky distillery, a statue of Scottish poet Robert Burns, and more kilts, sporrans, and gillies than you can shake a stick at! The Scottish settlers and local Maori came together in relative peace, but this wasn't true of the European whalers who were here three decades before, as places with names such as Murdering Beach illustrate.Dunedin has always had a reputation for the eccentric. Wearing no shoes and a big beard here marks a man as bohemian rather than destitute, and the residents wouldn't have it any other way. The University of Otago was the country's first university and has been drawing writers ever since its founding in 1871, most notably Janet Frame and the poet James K. Baxter. Dunedin also has a musical heritage, which blossomed into the "Dunedin Sound" of the 1970s and '80s.

Days 8-10  Cruising

Day 11 Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Sydney belongs to the exclusive club of cities that generate excitement. At the end of a marathon flight there's renewed vitality in the cabin as the plane circles the city, where thousands of yachts are suspended on the dark water and the sails of the Opera House glisten in the distance. Blessed with dazzling beaches and a sunny climate, Sydney is among the most beautiful cities on the planet.With 4.6 million people, Sydney is the biggest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia. A wave of immigration from the 1950s has seen the Anglo-Irish immigrants who made up the city's original population joined by Italians, Greeks, Turks, Lebanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thais, and Indonesians. This intermingling has created a cultural vibrancy and energy—and a culinary repertoire—that was missing only a generation ago.Sydneysiders embrace their harbor with a passion. Indented with numerous bays and beaches, Sydney Harbour is the presiding icon for the city, and urban Australia. Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the 11-ship First Fleet, wrote in his diary when he first set eyes on the harbor on January 26, 1788: "We had the satisfaction of finding the finest harbor in the world."Although a visit to Sydney is an essential part of an Australian experience, the city is no more representative of Australia than Los Angeles is of the United States. Sydney has joined the ranks of the great cities whose characters are essentially international. What Sydney offers is style, sophistication, and great looks—an exhilarating prelude to the continent at its back door.

Day 1 Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Sydney belongs to the exclusive club of cities that generate excitement. At the end of a marathon flight there's renewed vitality in the cabin as the plane circles the city, where thousands of yachts are suspended on the dark water and the sails of the Opera House glisten in the distance. Blessed with dazzling beaches and a sunny climate, Sydney is among the most beautiful cities on the planet.With 4.6 million people, Sydney is the biggest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia. A wave of immigration from the 1950s has seen the Anglo-Irish immigrants who made up the city's original population joined by Italians, Greeks, Turks, Lebanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thais, and Indonesians. This intermingling has created a cultural vibrancy and energy—and a culinary repertoire—that was missing only a generation ago.Sydneysiders embrace their harbor with a passion. Indented with numerous bays and beaches, Sydney Harbour is the presiding icon for the city, and urban Australia. Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the 11-ship First Fleet, wrote in his diary when he first set eyes on the harbor on January 26, 1788: "We had the satisfaction of finding the finest harbor in the world."Although a visit to Sydney is an essential part of an Australian experience, the city is no more representative of Australia than Los Angeles is of the United States. Sydney has joined the ranks of the great cities whose characters are essentially international. What Sydney offers is style, sophistication, and great looks—an exhilarating prelude to the continent at its back door.

Days 2-3  Cruising

Day 4 Picton, New Zealand

The maritime township of Picton (population 4,000) lies at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound and is the arrival point for ferries from the North Island, as well as a growing number of international cruise ships. It plays a major role in providing services and transport by water taxi to a multitude of remote communities in the vast area of islands, peninsulas, and waterways that make up the Marlborough Sounds Maritime Park. There's plenty to do in town, with crafts markets in summer, historical sights to see, and walking tracks to scenic lookouts over the sounds. The main foreshore is lined by London Quay, which looks up Queen Charlotte Sound to the bays beyond. High Street runs down to London Quay from the hills, and between them these two streets make up the center of town.

Day 5  Cruising

Day 6 Tauranga, New Zealand

The population center of the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is one of New Zealand's fastest-growing cities. Along with its neighbor, Whakatane, this seaside city claims to be one of the country's sunniest towns. Unlike most local towns, Tauranga doesn't grind to a halt in the off-season, because it has one of the busiest ports in the country, and the excellent waves at the neighboring beach resort of Mount Maunganui—just across Tauranga's harbor bridge—always draw surfers and holiday folk.

Day 7 Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is called the City of Sails, and visitors flying in will see why. On the East Coast is the Waitemata Harbour—a Maori word meaning sparkling waters—which is bordered by the Hauraki Gulf, an aquatic playground peppered with small islands where many Aucklanders can be found "mucking around in boats."Not surprisingly, Auckland has some 70,000 boats. About one in four households in Auckland has a seacraft of some kind, and there are 102 beaches within an hour's drive; during the week many are quite empty. Even the airport is by the water; it borders the Manukau Harbour, which also takes its name from the Maori language and means solitary bird.According to Maori tradition, the Auckland isthmus was originally peopled by a race of giants and fairy folk. When Europeans arrived in the early 19th century, however, the Ngati-Whatua tribe was firmly in control of the region. The British began negotiations with the Ngati-Whatua in 1840 to purchase the isthmus and establish the colony's first capital. In September of that year the British flag was hoisted to mark the township's foundation, and Auckland remained the capital until 1865, when the seat of government was moved to Wellington. Aucklanders expected to suffer from the shift; it hurt their pride but not their pockets. As the terminal for the South Sea shipping routes, Auckland was already an established commercial center. Since then the urban sprawl has made this city of approximately 1.3 million people one of the world's largest geographically.A couple of days in the city will reveal just how developed and sophisticated Auckland is—the Mercer City Survey 2012 saw it ranked as the third-highest city for quality of life—though those seeking a New York in the South Pacific will be disappointed. Auckland is more get-up and go-outside than get-dressed-up and go-out. That said, most shops are open daily, central bars and a few nightclubs buzz well into the wee hours, especially Thursday through Saturday, and a mix of Maori, Pacific people, Asians, and Europeans contributes to the cultural milieu. Auckland has the world's largest single population of Pacific Islanders living outside their home countries, though many of them live outside the central parts of the city and in Manukau to the south. The Samoan language is the second most spoken in New Zealand. Most Pacific people came to New Zealand seeking a better life. When the plentiful, low-skilled work that attracted them dried up, the dream soured, and the population has suffered with poor health and education. Luckily, policies are now addressing that, and change is slowly coming. The Pacifica Festival in March is the region's biggest cultural event, attracting thousands to Western Springs. The annual Pacific Island Secondary Schools' Competition, also in March, sees young Pacific Islander and Asian students compete in traditional dance, drumming, and singing. This event is open to the public.At the geographical center of Auckland city is the 1,082-foot Sky Tower, a convenient landmark for those exploring on foot and some say a visible sign of the city's naked aspiration. It has earned nicknames like the Needle and the Big Penis—a counterpoint to a poem by acclaimed New Zealand poet James K. Baxter, which refers to Rangitoto Island as a clitoris in the harbor.The Waitemata Harbour has become better known since New Zealand staged its first defense of the America's Cup in 2000 and the successful Louis Vuitton Pacific Series in early 2009. The first regatta saw major redevelopment of the waterfront. The area, where many of the city's most popular bars, cafés, and restaurants are located, is now known as Viaduct Basin or, more commonly, the Viaduct. A recent expansion has created another area, Wynyard Quarter, which is slowly adding restaurants.These days, Auckland is still considered too bold and brash for its own good by many Kiwis who live "south of the Bombay Hills," the geographical divide between Auckland and the rest of New Zealand (barring Northland). "Jafa," an acronym for "just another f—ing Aucklander," has entered the local lexicon; there's even a book out called Way of the Jafa: A Guide to Surviving Auckland and Aucklanders. A common complaint is that Auckland absorbs the wealth from the hard work of the rest of the country. Most Aucklanders, on the other hand, still try to shrug and see it as the parochial envy of those who live in small towns. But these internal identity squabbles aren't your problem. You can enjoy a well-made coffee in almost any café, or take a walk on a beach—knowing that within 30 minutes' driving time you could be cruising the spectacular harbor, playing a round at a public golf course, or even walking in subtropical forest while listening to the song of a native tûî bird.

Day 8 Bay of Islands, New Zealand

The Tasman Sea on the west and the Pacific Ocean on the east meet at thetop of North Island at Cape Reinga. No matter what route you take, you'll passfarms and forests, marvellous beaches, and great open spaces. The East Coast,up to the Bay of Islands, is Northland's most densely populated, often withrefugees from bigger cities—looking for a more relaxed life—clustered aroundbreathtaking beaches. The first decision on the drive north comes at the footof the Brynderwyn Hills. Turning left will take you up the West Coast throughareas once covered with forests and now used for either agricultural orhorticulture. Driving over "the Brynderwyns," as they are known,takes you to Whangarei, the only city in Northland. If you're in the mood for adiversion, you can slip to the beautiful coastline and take in Waipu Cove, anarea settled by Scots, and Laings Beach, where million-dollar homes sit next tosmall Kiwi beach houses.An hour's drive farther north is the Bay of Islands, known all over theworld for its beauty. There you will find lush forests, splendid beaches, andshimmering harbors. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840 betweenMaoriand the British Crown, establishing the basis for the modern New Zealandstate. Every year on February 6, the extremely beautiful Waitangi Treaty Ground(the name means weeping waters) is the sight of a celebration of the treaty andprotests by Maori unhappy with it. Continuing north on the East Coast, theagricultural backbone of the region is even more evident and a series ofwinding loop roads off the main highway will take you to beaches that are bothbeautiful and isolated where you can swim, dive, picnic, or just laze. .The West Coast is even less populated, and the coastline is rugged andwindswept. In the Waipoua Forest, you will find some of New Zealand's oldestand largest kauri trees; the winding road will also take you past mangroveswamps. Crowning the region is the spiritually significant Cape Reinga, theheadland at the top of the vast stretch of 90 Mile Beach, where it's believedMaori souls depart after death. Today Maori make up roughly a quarter of thearea's population (compared with the national average of about 15%). The legendaryMaori navigator Kupe was said to have landed on the shores of Hokianga Harbour,where the first arrivals made their home. Many different wi (tribes) livedthroughout Northland, including Ngapuhi (the largest), Te Roroa, Ngati Wai,Ngati Kuri, Te Aupouri, Ngaitakoto, Ngati Kahu, and Te Rarawa. Many Maoriherecan trace their ancestry to the earliest inhabitants

Days 9-10  Cruising

Day 11 Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Sydney belongs to the exclusive club of cities that generate excitement. At the end of a marathon flight there's renewed vitality in the cabin as the plane circles the city, where thousands of yachts are suspended on the dark water and the sails of the Opera House glisten in the distance. Blessed with dazzling beaches and a sunny climate, Sydney is among the most beautiful cities on the planet.With 4.6 million people, Sydney is the biggest and most cosmopolitan city in Australia. A wave of immigration from the 1950s has seen the Anglo-Irish immigrants who made up the city's original population joined by Italians, Greeks, Turks, Lebanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Thais, and Indonesians. This intermingling has created a cultural vibrancy and energy—and a culinary repertoire—that was missing only a generation ago.Sydneysiders embrace their harbor with a passion. Indented with numerous bays and beaches, Sydney Harbour is the presiding icon for the city, and urban Australia. Captain Arthur Phillip, commander of the 11-ship First Fleet, wrote in his diary when he first set eyes on the harbor on January 26, 1788: "We had the satisfaction of finding the finest harbor in the world."Although a visit to Sydney is an essential part of an Australian experience, the city is no more representative of Australia than Los Angeles is of the United States. Sydney has joined the ranks of the great cities whose characters are essentially international. What Sydney offers is style, sophistication, and great looks—an exhilarating prelude to the continent at its back door.

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