How to choose your cruise holiday
Dreaming of escaping the daily grind, cruise style? You’re in luck. Keep scrolling for the scoop on choosing your cruise, and some of the most amazing international and river cruise routes.
Source: Getty
Craving a cruise holiday but not sure which adventure floats your boat?
To help you choose your cruise, we’ve crafted the ultimate cruising travel guide. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic river cruise through Europe, a family-friendly escape around Australia, or even an international cruise for singles or seniors, these are some of the best cruise options around.
Once you’ve found your perfect match, don’t forget to check out our cruise travel insurance cover.
Don’t say we didn’t tell you: When it comes to our cover, you’ll need to add Cruise Cover to have protection if you’re going on an ocean or sea going cruise for two or more nights. If you don’t, you’ll have to foot the bill for any unexpected incidents during the cruise – medical or otherwise.
About to book a cruise holiday? Sail ahead for our two cents on:
- How to choose the best cruise for you
- The different types of cruises you can sail away on
- International cruises worthy of your bucket list
- Must-try international river cruises
3 quick questions to help you land the best cruise holiday for your travel tastes
Whether you’re a first-time sailor or a seasoned cruise connoisseur, choosing the right cruise holiday is key to smooth sailing. Here are three questions to help you choose your cruise.
1. Where do you want to go?
Close your eyes and picture yourself on a cruise holiday. Are you soaking up the sun on crystal-clear waters and lounging on white-sand beaches? Or are you gazing in wonder at glaciers and towering snow-capped mountains?
Cruises can take you just about anywhere. So, deciding on your dream destination (and trip type!) is the first step to narrowing down your options.
2. Are you into planning your travels?
Are you a ‘go with the flow’ kind of traveller? Or do you prefer to plan your holidays well?
Some cruises offer a buffet of activities at each port - think beach days, cave explorations, or city tours. This means you’ll have to do virtually no planning for a jolly good time. Others might drop you off and let you explore on your own – which means you’ll have to plan your day.
Decide how much (or how little) planning you want to do, and you’ll be one step closer to your best cruise option.
3. What onboard vibe are you after?
Yes, your cruise’s stops are exciting. But don’t forget, you’ll be spending some quality time on the ship, too!
Looking for romance? A singles cruise might be your match. Travelling with friends? A party boat could be your jam.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, knowing the vibe you want will help you zero in on your perfect cruise holiday.
Source: Getty
5 types of cruises you can sail away on
1. Domestic cruises
Not sure if a cruise holiday is your thing? Consider dipping your toes in the water with a short domestic cruise holiday right here in New Zealand.
You could dive into culture at the Bay of Islands, where you can explore the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds and soak up the rich Maori heritage. Feeling more adventurous? A Milford Sound cruise might float your boat. Nestled in Fiordland National Park, this jaw-dropping fjord is perfect for kayaking with a backdrop of towering mountains.
Fun fact: cruise between November and February to make the most of our mild summer. Long days, warm temperatures, and endless adventure await.
2. Seniors’ cruises
Golden years? More like golden adventures! Plenty of cruise lines tailor cruise packages for seniors.
Senior cruises are all about living your best life on the water. Whether you want to snorkel around the Great Barrier Reef, lounge on the Whitsundays’ white sands, or simply soak up the bliss of a child-free holiday, there’s bound to be a cruise holiday tailored just for you.
Feeling adventurous? Go for it! Prefer to relax? That’s cool too. You can even bring the whole family along or keep it a peaceful adults-only getaway. Either way, it’s your time to shine!
3. Family cruises
Looking for a family holiday that’s fun for everyone? Hop aboard a family cruise! With onboard cinemas, water parks, and endless activities, you can swap the ‘are we there yet?’ groans for big, happy smiles.
While the kids are busy having a blast, you can kick back by the pool or enjoy some much-needed R&R. And for parents with little ones, take advantage of child-minding services and sneak away for a romantic dinner or a Broadway-style show. Family cruising = happy kids, happy parents, happy memories!
4. Singles cruises
Flying solo right now? Why not cruise solo too! Singles cruise holidays are perfect for adventurous spirits looking to meet new people and make unforgettable memories. Many cruise lines offer single cabins, so you can enjoy your own space while diving into as many (or as few) social events as you like.
From blind dinner dates to group tours, singles cruises from Sydney, Brisbane, or Melbourne are packed with opportunities to connect with fellow travellers.
First time cruising? Start with a short domestic cruise to ease into the solo cruising life. Who knows, you might leave with lifelong friends (or even a little romance)!
5. International cruises
Why visit one country when you can explore a bunch while sailing the high seas?
International cruises are like a floating hotel that takes you to bucket-list destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of Europe’s historic charm or Africa’s wild beauty, there’s a cruise to match your wanderlust.
Just pick your dream destinations, pack your bags, and let the adventure begin. Bon voyage!
3 incredible international cruises to add to your bucket list
Keen to sail the high seas? Here are some of the best international cruise destinations, in our books.
1. Australia cruises
Want to hop on a cruise but prefer not to travel too far away? Why not visit our Aussie neighbours just across the ditch!
You could sail to Sydney or Brisbane, explore the Great Barrier Reef, or enjoy a cruise trip to Melbourne. These routes are perfect for first-timers or anyone craving a closer escape.
With so many options to choose from locally, finding the right cruise holiday in Aussie waters is a breeze. Plus, there’s nothing like cruising with the comfort of home just a splash away.
2. South Pacific cruises
Craving a tropical escape? A South Pacific cruise is calling your name! With thousands of islands to explore, the options are as endless as the ocean.
Thrill-seekers can hike an active volcano in Vanuatu, while water lovers can snorkel above vibrant coral reefs in Fiji. Want a touch of French flair? Head to New Caledonia. And for the ultimate adventure, sail all the way to Hawaii, stopping at beautiful island nations along the way.
For the best experience, plan your cruise during the dry season (May to October). Think crystal-clear waters, warm sunshine, and a Pacific breeze – snorkelling heaven.
3. Mediterranean cruises
Sun, history, and mouthwatering food – what’s not to love about a Mediterranean cruise? From Portugal to Turkey, this region is packed with stunning beaches, ancient landmarks, and endless charm.
History buffs can explore the Acropolis on a Greek Island cruise, while foodies can indulge in the South of France on a route from Rome to Barcelona. Whether you’re chasing culture, coastline, or cuisine, the Mediterranean has it all.
For fewer crowds and warm weather, cruise during Europe’s spring or autumn. It’s the perfect way to soak up the magic without the tourist hustle.
Source: Getty
5 must-try international river cruises
Do you love exploring with a little side of luxe? Then a river cruise might just be your perfect cruise holiday match! Forget the highways and let the world unfold before you as you glide through stunning landscapes.
Whether it’s the romantic Seine or the exotic Mekong, these scenic cruises are all about history, culture, and jaw-dropping views.
Ready to choose your cruise? Here are five river cruise adventures to add to your bucket list!
1. Seine River, France
Calling all romantics, art lovers, and history buffs - this one’s for you. A Seine River cruise is like stepping into a French postcard.
Start in Paris, where you’ll soak up the City of Light for two magical days. From there, sail to Honfleur and the English Channel, with stops at Giverny (hello, Monet’s water lilies!) and Rouen, aka the City of 100 Spires. Don’t miss a trip to Normandy for D-Day memorials and a good dose of history.
2. Rhine River, Germany
First-time river cruiser? The Rhine is a great intro to European river cruising. Flowing through Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Switzerland, this route is a cultural smorgasbord.
Highlights include Cologne’s iconic cathedral, Riesling wine tastings in Rüdesheim, and the charming streets of Heidelberg. Oh, and don’t forget Strasbourg’s jaw-dropping Gothic cathedral.
3. Mekong River, Vietnam and Cambodia
Choose this cruise to sail through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia, starting in Siem Reap and ending in bustling Ho Chi Minh City.
Along the way, you’ll explore floating fish markets, rural villages, and royal palaces. Bonus: hopping on local boats will get you up close and personal with the Mekong’s hidden gems. Just be ready to climb in and out of those pangas. It’s all part of the adventure!
4. Nile River, Egypt
The Nile is home to one of the world’s most popular river cruise routes. These shorter cruises (usually four to 10 nights) are perfect for history buffs who want to sail through time.
Start in Cairo, the gateway to ancient wonders, and marvel at pyramids, temples, and more as you glide through Luxor and Aswan. If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing Egypt’s treasures up close, this is your chance to make it happen.
5. Yangtze River, China
The Yangtze River is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of cruise. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, history lover, or just looking to relax, this 6,400km waterway has something for everyone.
Sail through iconic cities like Shanghai and Nanjing, or opt for the Three Gorges tour (Chongqing to Yichang) to witness a breathtaking 120km stretch of natural beauty. Keep an eye out for ancient pagodas dotting the riverbanks as you sail by.
Ready to book your dream cruise holiday?
Check out our Cruise Cover – it may come in handy if things aren’t smooth sailing.