Sailing the Seas of Australia & New Zealand: A Norwegian Cruise Line Adventure
Get ready to embark on a journey like no other with Norwegian Cruise Line as we discover the stunning beauty of New Zealand's coastline! We sailed on the NCL Spirit on a 12-day adventure through the stunning waters of Australia and New Zealand. From the bustling city of Sydney to the serene beauty of Doubtful Sound, this cruise has something for everyone. See all Pacific Island Cruises by NCL.
Day 1: Sydney, Australia -
Welcome to the land down under! Our sailing started in Sydney, the largest city in the country. It's an incredibly diverse and exciting metro, and is home to some of the world's most iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
Spend some time exploring the city's neighborhoods, like The Rocks, Surry Hills, and Paddington. In The Rocks, you can see some of the oldest buildings in Sydney, which date back to the city's early days. Surry Hills is known for its trendy cafes, bars, and shops, while Paddington is famous for its boutique stores and galleries.
We spent the day walking around Bondi Beach. This is one of Australia's most iconic and popular coastlines. With its golden sand, turquoise water, and breathtaking coastal views, Bondi Beach is a must-visit destination for all beach lovers. Don't forget to explore the vibrant beachside cafes, restaurants, and shops while you're there! I spent half of my time shopping and the other half eating. I Highly recommend Fruitologist for an acai bowl - the extra PB is worth it! We were also recommended to visit Preach Cafe but sadly couldn’t get a table due to it being busy Saturday morning. I loved the shopping on Gould St which is adjacent to the main Bondi Beach walk. I spent about two hours popping into all the shops. I bought things from Tuchuzy, Fox & Dove, Museum, and some local street vendors. Gotta get that sea-shell anklet!
We stayed at the A by Adina Sydney. A by Adina is a luxury hotel in the heart of Sydney, known for its stunning contemporary design and exceptional hospitality. With a prime location that offers easy access to the city's top attractions, this hotel is the perfect choice for both business and leisure travelers. The A by Adina has a rooftop infinity pool with sweeping views of the city skyline, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center and a sophisticated restaurant that serves a range of gourmet cuisine. The hotel also offers luxurious rooms and suites that feature high-end amenities and elegant furnishings, making for a truly memorable and indulgent stay.
SHOP — Dress Aya Sacred Wear | Skirt Abercrombie | Tank Nordstrom
photo by urlaubstracker.de
Day 4: Melbourne, Australia -
Get ready for a cultural experience as you visit Melbourne, Australia's second-largest city. Stroll through the city's famous laneways, sample delicious coffee and cuisine, and visit the National Gallery of Victoria.
We were able to see a large part of the city thanks to the free city bus that goes around Melbourne. You read that right - a FREE city bus just for people who are touring the city. The Free City Circle Tram is a popular and convenient mode of transport for both tourists and locals in Melbourne, Australia. The service, as the name suggests, operates in a circular route around the central business district, passing by many of the city's top attractions, including the Flinders Street Station, Parliament House, and the Queen Victoria Market. The Free City Circle Tram runs every 12 minutes, seven days a week, and is completely free of charge, making it an affordable and efficient way to explore Melbourne's inner-city. The vintage-style trams used in the service are a charming and unique feature, and the commentary provided on board gives passengers an insight into the city's rich history and culture.
Our first stop was Lune Croissantarie. Lune Croissanterie is a pastry shop located with multiple locations in Melbourne and has gained a reputation for producing some of the most delicious and innovative croissants in the world. Founded by two passionate bakers, Kate Reid, and Cameron Reid, Lune Croissanterie is dedicated to using only the finest ingredients and traditional French techniques to create their mouth-watering pastries. With its sleek and modern design, the bakery provides a welcoming environment where customers can indulge in their favorite treats, including the signature croissant, which has been lauded as one of the best in the world. The commitment to quality and attention to detail at Lune Croissanterie has earned it a devoted following and cemented its place as a must-visit destination for pastry lovers in Melbourne and beyond.
Hosier Lane is a renowned laneway located in the bustling heart of Melbourne, Australia. This iconic graffiti hotspot is home to some of the city's most impressive street art, including colorful murals, stencil works, and quirky installations that make for a unique and Instagram-worthy backdrop. Fun facts about Hosier Lane include its ever-changing artwork, as the works are constantly updated by local and international artists, and that it has become a popular destination for fashion and music video shoots, adding to its growing reputation as a must-visit destination for art lovers and creative souls alike.
Melbourne's China Town is a colorful and exciting destination that offers a feast for the senses. From the delicious Asian cuisine to the unique shops and historical landmarks, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this lively and dynamic neighborhood.
Day 7: Cruise Doubtful Sound -
This at-sea day has some of the most breathtaking scenery you'll ever see! Doubtful Sound, also known as the ‘Sound of Silence’, is a fjord located in the southwestern corner of New Zealand's South Island. With its pristine waters, rugged cliffs, and abundant wildlife, this is a natural wonder that simply cannot be missed. Fiordland National Park, located in the southwestern corner of New Zealand's South Island, is home to some of the most beautiful fjords in the world. The park covers over 1.2 million hectares and is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site. We spent the entire day admiring the view, watching the tiny kayakers from afar, and counting hundreds of waterfalls. We also Cruise through Milford Sound and Dusky Sound which were equally impressive. We had so much fun here taking photos. You can find all my camera gear here.
The fiords in Fiordland were formed during the last Ice Age, around 20,000 years ago, when glaciers carved deep valleys into the landscape. As the glaciers melted, the sea level rose and flooded the valleys, creating the fjords we see today.
Milford Sound, one of the most famous and popular fiords in Fiordland, is often called the "eighth wonder of the world." It's known for its towering cliffs, waterfalls, and stunning scenery. Visitors can take a boat tour or kayak on the sound to get a closer look at the natural wonders.
Doubtful Sound is another popular fiord in Fiordland, known for its untouched wilderness and remote location. Visitors can take a boat tour or spend a night on a boat to experience the peace and tranquility of this stunning fiord.
The fiords in Fiordland are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including penguins, seals, dolphins, and whales. The unique marine environment and isolated location make it an important breeding ground and sanctuary for many species.
Day 8: Dunedin (Port Chalmers), New Zealand -
Discover the rich Scottish heritage of Dunedin, a city located on the southeast coast of New Zealand's South Island. Nestled just outside of the charming city of Dunedin in New Zealand lies Tunnel Beach, a hidden gem that will take your breath away. This secluded beach is named for the tunnels carved into the cliffs that lead down to the sand, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the coast and the Pacific Ocean. The natural rock formations and dramatic cliffs make Tunnel Beach a unique and picturesque destination that's perfect for those seeking a little adventure. Whether you're taking a leisurely stroll along the shore, exploring the tunnels, or simply soaking up the beauty of the landscape, a visit to Tunnel Beach is a must-do when in Dunedin. Make sure to pack your camera and capture the stunning scenery for yourself!
For lunch, we stopped at little vegan hole in the wall, called Let Them Eat Vegan, downtown Dunedin. Everything was homemade and I wish I could have ordered the whole menu. I had the Breakfast burrito with vegan breakfast sausage. They also had an array of local juices.
SHOP — Boots Sorel | Denim Abercrombie
Day 8 Lyttelton/Waimakariri River -
In Lyttelton, take a stroll along the charming streets and enjoy the quaint atmosphere of this historic town. We decided to book an excursion with Alpine Jet Thrills. With this excursion, experience the rush of adrenaline with the Alpine Jet Thrills excursion on the Waimakariri River in New Zealand! This heart-pumping adventure takes you on a scenic jet boat ride through the breathtakingly beautiful Waimakariri River Canyon. As you speed through the rapids and navigate tight turns, you'll be surrounded by towering cliffs and stunning alpine scenery. The skilled drivers of the jet boats provide a thrilling ride that will leave you on the edge of your seat. With its breathtaking scenery and heart-pounding excitement, the Alpine Jet Thrills excursion is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty of New Zealand and add a touch of excitement to your travels. Don't miss this unforgettable opportunity to take in the scenic beauty of the Waimakariri River while feeling the thrill of the ride! The Waimakariri River is the largest of the three main rivers in the Canterbury region of New Zealand's South Island, stretching over 150 km from its source in the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean. The Waimakariri River is the largest of the three main rivers in the Canterbury region of New Zealand's South Island, stretching over 150 km from its source in the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean.
The Waimakariri River is known for its braided river channels, which are created by the river depositing sediment and changing its course over time. These braided channels are a unique feature of the river and provide important habitat for many species of plants and animals.
The Waimakariri River is an important source of water for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation in the Canterbury region. The river is also a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and jet boating.
The Waimakariri River was the site of one of New Zealand's worst maritime disasters, when the HMS Orpheus ran aground on a sandbar in 1863, killing 189 people. The incident led to significant changes in the way ships navigated New Zealand's waters.
The Waimakariri River is an important cultural and spiritual site for the Ngāi Tahu, the Māori tribe who have lived in the region for centuries. The river is believed to have healing powers and is used in traditional Māori ceremonies and rituals.
photo by Sulthan Auliya
Day 9 Wellington -
Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. We spent the day visiting thrift shops, cafes, and restaurants. Check out the Hannahs Laneway area for great food and local chocolate making. There is also an incredible scenic overlook that we didn’t have time to do in the southern part of the city. Here are five must-do things to see in Wellington:
Te Papa Museum - This world-class museum offers a fascinating insight into New Zealand's rich history and culture, with interactive exhibits and immersive displays that make for a memorable experience. Fun fact: Te Papa is home to the world's largest specimen of the colossal squid, which weighs a staggering 495 kilograms!
Cable Car - Taking a ride on the Wellington Cable Car is a quintessential experience that provides breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Fun fact: The cable car has been in operation since 1902 and carries over a million passengers each year.
Weta Cave - Lord of the Rings fans won't want to miss a visit to the Weta Cave, a museum and workshop that showcases the impressive special effects and props used in the iconic movie trilogy. Fun fact: Weta Workshop has won five Academy Awards for its work in film and television.
Zealandia Ecosanctuary - This unique conservation park offers a glimpse into New Zealand's unique flora and fauna, with a focus on protecting native species and restoring their habitats. Fun fact: Zealandia is home to a variety of rare and endangered birds, including the kiwi, takahe, and kaka.
Wellington Waterfront - The picturesque waterfront area is a hub of activity, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, as well as stunning views of the harbor and the surrounding hills. Fun fact: The iconic red and white lighthouse at the end of the waterfront was originally built in 1879 and has been in continuous operation ever since. Check out the Hannahs Laneway area for great food and local chocolate making.
SHOP — Shoes Converse
Day 10 Napier -
Napier is known for its Art Deco architecture and stunning landscapes. We spent this port on a Gannet Safari. The Cape Kidnappers Gannet Safari is a unique experience where visitors can observe thousands of gannets nesting and raising their young. The gannets are a sight to behold, with their striking appearance and fascinating behaviors, and the experienced guides provide interesting insights and information about the birds and their habitat. The tour offers a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the area and to learn about the conservation efforts that are helping to protect the gannets and their fragile ecosystem. This excursion is great for anyone who wants an easy-going day, since they picked us up straight from the port and transported us everywhere with no hiking involved. We ended the day with high tea and then headed back to the ship.
Day 11 Tauranga -
Tauranga is a coastal city located on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant arts scene, and abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. Tauranga is also famous for its thriving port, which is the largest in New Zealand in terms of exports.
We went on a Kayak excursion to Lake Rotoriti. I’ll start by saying that the bug bites here are no joke so please bring bug spray. It’s two weeks later and I still have welts on my ankles. This excursion took us on a kayak trip around the lake and into a glow worm cave. Truthfully the grow worms were pretty disappointing and I would not suggest choosing this excursion simply for that part of the tour. With that being said, Colin and I loved being in a tandem kayak together and the natural hot springs we visited after lunch was extremely charming. I wish we had spent more time there instead of going to the glow worm cave.
Day 12 Bay of Islands -
The Bay of Islands is a subtropical micro-region located in the far north of New Zealand's North Island, consisting of 144 islands and numerous secluded bays and beaches. Sadly, we visited on a rainy day but I can imagine how insanely blue the water must be on a sunny one. Its stunning natural beauty and abundant water activities make it a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports. Visitors to the Bay of Islands can also enjoy a diverse range of wildlife, including dolphins, penguins, and marlin.
We did a boat tour that sailed by each island with the highlight being Hole in the Rock. The famous "Hole in the Rock" formation, a natural archway that can be seen on boat tours of the bay, is an important cultural site for the Māori people and has spiritual significance. If you want a picture here you better be ready. We went on such a long journey to get there just for the boat to turn around and leave almost immediately. It was a gorgeous sight but difficult to capture among hundred other tourists and less than 3 minutes at the site.
photo by Sulthan Auliya
Day 13 Auckland -
Finally, we'll arrive in Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand. You'll have the chance to explore this cosmopolitan city and experience its vibrant nightlife and unique shopping opportunities. We actually had a one-day overlap with some friends who were boarding an NCL cruise and headed back to Australia! We all caught up and had a great brunch at Williams Eatery near the port.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your spot on Norwegian Cruise Line's sailing adventure in New Zealand today! Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with excitement, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime!
