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Our team will be taking a holiday break to spend time with their families from December 23rd to December 27th. We’ll return to regular business hours on Monday, December 30th.
Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

Overview
Itinerary
Dates & Prices
Add-Ons
Photos
Deck Plans
FAQs

Highlights

  • Learn about New Zealand’s natural and human history at the Auckland Museum
  • Enjoy the unique art deco meets Maori aesthetic of stylish Napier
  • Experience the stunningly beautiful Fiordland National Park
  • Soak up the atmosphere of Melbourne
  • Discover Sydney on a guided tour

Soak in new experiences as you sail past stunning landscapes on our Australia and New Zealand cruise.

Learn about New Zealand’s history and enjoy fabulous sightseeing in Auckland, the stunning “Queen City” from which you will embark on your cruise. In Tauranga, you can see New Zealand’s own Pompeii at Rotorua’s frozen-in-time Buried Village. The art deco beauty of Napier will transport you back to the 1930s, and you can even visit the real-life Middle Earth in Wellington.

Melbourne might be where you eat the best meal of your life. Your final stop is Sydney for disembarkation and an included city tour. Once rough and tumble, it is now a leading center of culture and international commerce with one of the most recognizable skylines in the world.

Activity level

  • Relaxed
  • Easy Going
  • Moderate
  • Active
  • Very Active
Click to Learn More

Moderate

On this tour type, you should be prepared to walk slightly longer distances, and be able to climb stairs (these may be steep and/or uneven). You should be comfortable with periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops, or ship excursions. The daily pace and timing can fluctuate significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities which may occur in the early morning or evening. There may be some changes in altitude or temperature.
Click to Learn More

Tour Includes

2 Countries

  • Australia
  • New Zealand

Sightseeing

  • Auckland
  • Tauranga (Rotorua)
  • Napier
  • Wellington
  • Picton
  • Lyttleton (Christchurch)
  • Dunedin (Port Chalmers)
  • Fiordland National Park
  • Hobart
  • Melbourne
  • Sydney

Cruise Accommodations

  • 14 Nights
  • Cruise aboard Holland America Line’s ms Westerdam

Hotel Accommodations

  • 4 Nights
  • Moderate hotels based on twin/double occupancy

Meals

  • 6 Breakfasts and 1 Lunch on land portion. All meals and select drinks on the cruise

Service

  • A professionally trained English-speaking local tour director who is knowledgeable about the area will provide you with a wealth of information. Their friendly service will make your trip a memorable experience.

Baggage Handling

  • To and from your hotel room and cruise ship cabin throughout your tour for one piece of Checked Baggage per person.

Add-Ons

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

Sydney Opera House Guided Tour

Take an exclusive guided tour of the world-famous Sydney Opera House
Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

Have It All!

Add exciting shore excursions at stops along your cruise! Get in touch for more details
Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025 - Northbound Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025 - Northbound with Cairns Post Tour Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025 - Southbound Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025 - Southbound With Cairns Pre-Tour
Tour Starts:

Auckland

Tour Ends:

Sydney

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025
Days 1 & 2
Depart for Auckland, New Zealand
Take an overnight flight to Auckland.
Note: Depending on the departure time of your outbound flight, you may depart one day later.
Day 3
Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand
Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. If you purchased airline tickets from YMT Vacations, a representative will welcome you at the airport and transport you to the hotel. Enjoy the evening on your own.

Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre or similar
Day 4
Auckland, New Zealand
Start the morning with a guided coach tour of Auckland. Travel along the waterfront of Tamaki Drive, with gorgeous ocean and city views. Visit the colonial-style Mission Bay, the fragrant Parnell Rose Gardens, and the magnificent Auckland Domain Park. Next, learn the story of New Zealand on a guided tour of the Auckland Museum. See natural history exhibits and Māori artifacts. Continue to Auckland’s 1,000-foot-tall Sky Tower, where you can see for up to 50 miles in every direction. Sit down at the revolving Orbit Restaurant for a lunch (included) with a side of the city’s best views. (B, L)

Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre or similar
Day 5
Embarkation in Auckland

You’ll have free time in Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’, before heading to board the ms Westerdam. (B, D)

Add-On: Have It All (Days 5-19)
Day 6
Tauranga (Rotorua), New Zealand
Discover Rotorua, known for its stunning natural beauty. Visit the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, a town that remains frozen in time after being devastated by a volcanic eruption in 1886. (B, L, D)
Day 7
Napier, New Zealand
The coastal city of Napier is set amid the renowned wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay. Known for art deco landmarks including the zigzag patterned Daily Telegraph Building, the city feels like it is straight out of the 1930s in places. (B, L, D)
Day 8
Wellington, New Zealand
Welcome to Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Take the Wellington Cable Car from the central Lambton Quay to the hills of Kelburn, where you can enjoy the sprawling Botanical Gardens, the petite Wellington Cable Car Museum, and dazzling city views. (B, L, D)
Day 9
Picton, New Zealand

The gateway to South Island, Picton is perched at the edge of Queen Charlotte Sound. The picturesque town is also the perfect base to explore the Marlborough wine region, further inland. (B, L, D)
Day 10
Lyttleton (Christchurch), New Zealand

Spend a blissful day in Lyttelton, New Zealand’s only registered historic township. The seaside city built on the site of an extinct volcano is irresistibly charming. (B, L, D)
Day 11
Dunedin (Port Chalmers), New Zealand
This dramatic South Island coastal town offers a mix of unique natural beauty and fascinating history. Rare yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, and the Royal Albatross all call Dunedin home. Larnach Castle sits high above the city, offering sweeping views from its gardens. (B, L, D)
Day 12
Cruise Fiordland National Park
Spend the day cruising Fiordland National Park, a stunning expanse of wilderness on one of the most remote parts of the pristine South Island. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a dazzlingly dramatic landscape, with volcanos, sprawling rainforests, and snow-topped mountains, as well as crystal-clear waters teeming with wildlife. (B, L, D)
Day 13 & 14
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 15
Hobart, Australia

This beautiful waterfront city in Tasmania has a thriving art scene, and if time permits, a visit to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) comes highly recommended. Wander the city’s scenic harbor, visit its eclectic markets and take in sweeping views of the wilderness all around. (B, L, D)
Day 16
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 17
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, known as Australia’s cultural capital, is a robust and dynamic city. Considered the most European of Australia’s major cities, Melbourne is a cultural melting pot with remarkable art and architecture, excellent shopping, and world-class dining. (B, L, D)
Day 18
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 19
Disembarkation and Sydney Tour
After disembarking, enjoy a city tour which starts at The Rocks, Sydney’s birthplace. You’ll see the picturesque Botanic Gardens, and take in the view of the Sydney Opera House. Continue to Darling Harbour, Watson’s Bay, and Bondi Beach before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure. (B)

Novotel Sydney or similar

Add-On: Sydney Opera House Tour
Day 20
Sydney Leisure Day

Enjoy one final day on your own in Sydney. (B)

Novotel Sydney or similar

Post-Tour Enhanced Option: Add 2 nights in Cairns, Australia (Novotel Oasis Resort or similar) with a Great Barrier Reef snorkeling experience.
Add-On: Deluxe Full Day Blue Mountains
Day 21
Depart for Home (B)
Post-Tour Enhanced Option: Add 2 nights in Cairns, Australia (Novotel Oasis Resort or similar) with a Great Barrier Reef snorkeling experience at $1,099 USD per person
Tour Starts:

Auckland, New Zealand

Tour Ends:

Cairns, Australia

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025
Days 1 & 2
Depart for Auckland, New Zealand
Take an overnight flight to Auckland.
Note: Depending on the departure time of your outbound flight, you may depart one day later.
Day 3
Arrive in Auckland, New Zealand
Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. If you purchased airline tickets from YMT Vacations, a representative will welcome you at the airport and transport you to the hotel. Enjoy the evening on your own.

Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre or similar
Day 4
Auckland, New Zealand
Start the morning with a guided coach tour of Auckland. Travel along the waterfront of Tamaki Drive, with gorgeous ocean and city views. Visit the colonial-style Mission Bay, the fragrant Parnell Rose Gardens, and the magnificent Auckland Domain Park. Next, learn the story of New Zealand on a guided tour of the Auckland Museum. See natural history exhibits and Māori artifacts. Continue to Auckland’s 1,000-foot-tall Sky Tower, where you can see for up to 50 miles in every direction. Sit down at the revolving Orbit Restaurant for a lunch (included) with a side of the city’s best views. (B, L)

Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre or similar
Day 5
Embarkation in Auckland

You’ll have free time in Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’, before heading to board the ms Westerdam. (B, D)

Add-On: Have It All (Days 5-19)
Day 6
Tauranga (Rotorua), New Zealand
Discover Rotorua, known for its stunning natural beauty. Visit the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, a town that remains frozen in time after being devastated by a volcanic eruption in 1886. (B, L, D)
Day 7
Napier, New Zealand
The coastal city of Napier is set amid the renowned wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay. Known for art deco landmarks including the zigzag patterned Daily Telegraph Building, the city feels like it is straight out of the 1930s in places. (B, L, D)
Day 8
Wellington, New Zealand
Welcome to Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Take the Wellington Cable Car from the central Lambton Quay to the hills of Kelburn, where you can enjoy the sprawling Botanical Gardens, the petite Wellington Cable Car Museum, and dazzling city views. (B, L, D)
Day 9
Picton, New Zealand

The gateway to South Island, Picton is perched at the edge of Queen Charlotte Sound. The picturesque town is also the perfect base to explore the Marlborough wine region, further inland. (B, L, D)
Day 10
Lyttleton (Christchurch), New Zealand

Spend a blissful day in Lyttelton, New Zealand’s only registered historic township. The seaside city built on the site of an extinct volcano is irresistibly charming. (B, L, D)
Day 11
Dunedin (Port Chalmers), New Zealand
This dramatic South Island coastal town offers a mix of unique natural beauty and fascinating history. Rare yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, and the Royal Albatross all call Dunedin home. Larnach Castle sits high above the city, offering sweeping views from its gardens. (B, L, D)
Day 12
Cruise Fiordland National Park
Spend the day cruising Fiordland National Park, a stunning expanse of wilderness on one of the most remote parts of the pristine South Island. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a dazzlingly dramatic landscape, with volcanos, sprawling rainforests, and snow-topped mountains, as well as crystal-clear waters teeming with wildlife. (B, L, D)
Day 13 & 14
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 15
Hobart, Australia

This beautiful waterfront city in Tasmania has a thriving art scene, and if time permits, a visit to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) comes highly recommended. Wander the city’s scenic harbor, visit its eclectic markets and take in sweeping views of the wilderness all around. (B, L, D)
Day 16
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 17
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, known as Australia’s cultural capital, is a robust and dynamic city. Considered the most European of Australia’s major cities, Melbourne is a cultural melting pot with remarkable art and architecture, excellent shopping, and world-class dining. (B, L, D)
Day 18
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 19
Disembarkation and Sydney Tour
After disembarking, enjoy a city tour which starts at The Rocks, Sydney’s birthplace. You’ll see the picturesque Botanic Gardens, and take in the view of the Sydney Opera House. Continue to Darling Harbour, Watson’s Bay, and Bondi Beach before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure. (B)

Novotel Sydney or similar

Add-On: Sydney Opera House Tour
Day 20
Sydney Leisure Day

Enjoy one final day on your own in Sydney. (B)

Novotel Sydney or similar

Add-On: Deluxe Full Day Blue Mountains
Day 21
Fly to Cairns

Take a flight from Sydney to Cairns and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure before your amazing adventure to the Great Barrier Reef tomorrow. (B)

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort or similar
Day 22
Included Day Trip to Great Barrier Reef

Magic Cruises catamaran to experience the magic of the Great Barrier Reef. Your day at the all-weather Marine World platform will be full of activities that cater to all levels. As part of your package, you can enjoy the magnificent reef from a semi-submersible reef viewer, a glass bottom boat, or the underwater observatory. For additional cost, you may even choose to snorkel in the sheltered coral lagoon or go scuba diving (no experience necessary). (B, L)

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort or similar
Day 23
Depart for Home (B)
Tour Starts:

Sydney

Tour Ends:

Auckland

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025
Days 1 & 2
Depart for Sydney, Australia
Take an overnight flight to Sydney.
Note: Depending on the departure time of your outbound flight, you may depart one day later.
Day 3
Arrive in Sydney, Australia
Welcome to Sydney, Australia. If you purchased airline tickets from YMT Vacations, a YMT representative will welcome you at the airport and transport you to the hotel. Enjoy the evening on your own.

Novotel Sydney or similar
Day 4
Sydney, Australia
Enjoy a city tour starting at The Rocks, Sydney’s birthplace. See relics and buildings of the city’s past, pass the picturesque Botanic Gardens, and take in the view of the Sydney Opera House. Continue to Darling Harbour, Watson’s Bay, and Bondi Beach before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure. (B)

Novotel Sydney or similar

Add-On: Sydney Opera House Tour

 
Day 5
Embarkation in Sydney, Australia

Enjoy Sydney on your own before boarding ms Westerdam. (B, D)
Day 6
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 7
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, known as Australia’s cultural capital, is a robust and dynamic city. Considered the most European of Australia’s major cities, Melbourne is a cultural melting
pot with remarkable art and architecture, excellent shopping, and world-class dining. (B, L, D)

Add-On: Have It All (Days 7-21)
Day 8
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 9
Hobart, Australia

This beautiful waterfront city in Tasmania has a thriving art scene, and if time permits, a visit to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) comes highly recommended. Wander the city’s scenic harbor, visit its eclectic markets and take in sweeping views of the wilderness all around. (B, L, D)
Day 10 & 11
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 12
Cruise Fiordland National Park
Spend the day cruising Fiordland National Park, a stunning expanse of wilderness on one of the most remote parts of the pristine South Island. This UNESCO World
Heritage site is a dazzlingly dramatic landscape, with volcanos, sprawling rainforests, and snow-topped mountains, as well as crystal-clear waters teeming with wildlife. (B, L, D)
Day 13
Dunedin (Port Chalmers), New Zealand
This dramatic South Island coastal town offers a mix of unique natural beauty and fascinating history. Rare yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, and the Royal Albatross all
call Dunedin home. Larnach Castle sits high above the city, offering sweeping views from its gardens. (B, L, D)
Day 14
Lyttelton (Christchurch), New Zealand

Spend a blissful day in Lyttelton, New Zealand’s only registered historic township. The seaside city built on the site of an extinct volcano is irresistibly charming. (B, L, D)
Day 15
Picton, New Zealand

The gateway to South Island, Picton is perched at the edge of Queen Charlotte Sound. The picturesque town is also the perfect base to explore the Marlborough wine region, further inland. (B, L, D)
Day 16
Wellington, New Zealand
Welcome to Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Take the Wellington Cable Car from the central Lambton Quay to the hills of Kelburn, where you can enjoy the
sprawling Botanical Gardens, the petite Wellington Cable Car Museum, and dazzling city views. (B, L, D)
Day 17
Napier, New Zealand
The coastal city of Napier is set amid the renowned wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay. Known for art deco landmarks including the zigzag patterned Daily Telegraph
Building, the city feels like it is straight out of the 1930s in places. (B, L, D)
Day 18
Tauranga (Rotorua), New Zealand
Discover Rotorua, known for its stunning natural beauty. Visit the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, a town that remains frozen in time after being devastated by a
volcanic eruption in 1886. (B, L, D)
Day 19
Disembarkation in Auckland
You’ll have free time to explore Auckland on your own after disembarkation. (B)

Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre or similar
Day 20
Auckland, New Zealand
Start the morning with a guided coach tour of Auckland. Travel along the waterfront of Tamaki Drive, with gorgeous ocean and city views. Visit the colonial-style Mission Bay, the fragrant Parnell Rose Gardens, and the magnificent Auckland Domain Park. Next, learn the story of New Zealand on a guided tour of the Auckland Museum. See natural history exhibits and Māori artifacts. Continue to Auckland’s 1,000-foot-tall Sky Tower, where you can see for up to 50 miles in every direction. Sit down at the revolving Orbit Restaurant for a lunch (included) with a side of the city’s best views. (B, L)

Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre or similar

Pre-Tour Enhanced Option: Add 2 nights in Cairns, Australia (Novotel Oasis Resort or similar) with a Great Barrier Reef snorkeling experience before flying into Sydney to proceed with your Southbound itinerary. Call for pricing.
Day 21
Depart for Home (B)
Tour Starts:

Sydney

Tour Ends:

Auckland

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025
Days 1 & 2
Depart for Cairns
Fly to Cairns, and en route, cross the International Date Line, separating East from West. You will “lose” a day traveling to Australia.
Day 3
Arrival in Cairns & Day at Leisure
You will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of your day is at leisure.
Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort or similar
Day 4
Included Day Trip To Great Barrier Reef

This morning head over to the Reef Fleet Terminal and board the Reef Magic Cruises catamaran to experience the Great Barrier Reef. Snorkel in the sheltered coral lagoon or enjoy the reef from the semi-submersible reef viewer, glass bottom boat or underwater observatory. (B, L)

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort or similar
Day 5
Fly to Sydney, Australia
This morning fly to Sydney to meet the rest of your fellow travelers and continue your great adventure in the Land Down Under. If you purchased airline tickets from YMT Vacations, a YMT representative will welcome you at the airport and transport you to the hotel. Enjoy the evening on your own. (B)
Day 6
Sydney, Australia
Enjoy a city tour starting at The Rocks, Sydney’s birthplace. See relics and buildings of the city’s past, pass the picturesque Botanic Gardens, and take in the view of the Sydney Opera House. Continue to Darling Harbour, Watson’s Bay, and Bondi Beach before enjoying the rest of the day at leisure. (B)

Novotel Sydney or similar

Add-On: Sydney Opera House Tour
Day 7
Embarkation in Sydney, Australia

Enjoy Sydney on your own before boarding ms Westerdam. (B, D)

Add-On: Have It All (Days 7-21)
Day 8
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 9
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne, known as Australia’s cultural capital, is a robust and dynamic city. Considered the most European of Australia’s major cities, Melbourne is a cultural melting
pot with remarkable art and architecture, excellent shopping, and world-class dining. (B, L, D)
Day 10
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 11
Hobart, Australia

This beautiful waterfront city in Tasmania has a thriving art scene, and if time permits, a visit to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) comes highly recommended. Wander the city’s scenic harbor, visit its eclectic markets and take in sweeping views of the wilderness all around. (B, L, D)
Day 12 & 13
At Sea (B, L, D)
Day 14
Cruise Fiordland National Park
Spend the day cruising Fiordland National Park, a stunning expanse of wilderness on one of the most remote parts of the pristine South Island. This UNESCO World
Heritage site is a dazzlingly dramatic landscape, with volcanos, sprawling rainforests, and snow-topped mountains, as well as crystal-clear waters teeming with wildlife. (B, L, D)
Day 15
Dunedin (Port Chalmers), New Zealand
This dramatic South Island coastal town offers a mix of unique natural beauty and fascinating history. Rare yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, and the Royal Albatross all
call Dunedin home. Larnach Castle sits high above the city, offering sweeping views from its gardens. (B, L, D)
Day 16
Lyttelton (Christchurch), New Zealand

Spend a blissful day in Lyttelton, New Zealand’s only registered historic township. The seaside city built on the site of an extinct volcano is irresistibly charming. (B, L, D)
Day 17
Picton, New Zealand

The gateway to South Island, Picton is perched at the edge of Queen Charlotte Sound. The picturesque town is also the perfect base to explore the Marlborough wine region, further inland. (B, L, D)
Day 18
Wellington, New Zealand
Welcome to Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. Take the Wellington Cable Car from the central Lambton Quay to the hills of Kelburn, where you can enjoy the
sprawling Botanical Gardens, the petite Wellington Cable Car Museum, and dazzling city views. (B, L, D)
Day 19
Napier, New Zealand
The coastal city of Napier is set amid the renowned wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay. Known for art deco landmarks including the zigzag patterned Daily Telegraph
Building, the city feels like it is straight out of the 1930s in places. (B, L, D)
Day 20
Tauranga (Rotorua), New Zealand
Discover Rotorua, known for its stunning natural beauty. Visit the Buried Village of Te Wairoa, a town that remains frozen in time after being devastated by a
volcanic eruption in 1886. (B, L, D)
Day 21
Disembarkation in Auckland
You’ll have free time to explore Auckland on your own after disembarkation. (B)

Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre or similar
Day 22
Auckland, New Zealand
Start the morning with a guided coach tour of Auckland. Travel along the waterfront of Tamaki Drive, with gorgeous ocean and city views. Visit the colonial-style Mission Bay, the fragrant Parnell Rose Gardens, and the magnificent Auckland Domain Park. Next, learn the story of New Zealand on a guided tour of the Auckland Museum. See natural history exhibits and Māori artifacts. Continue to Auckland’s 1,000-foot-tall Sky Tower, where you can see for up to 50 miles in every direction. Sit down at the revolving Orbit Restaurant for a lunch (included) with a side of the city’s best views. (B, L)

Holiday Inn Express Auckland City Centre or similar

Pre-Tour Enhanced Option: Add 2 nights in Cairns, Australia (Novotel Oasis Resort or similar) with a Great Barrier Reef snorkeling experience before flying into Sydney to proceed with your Southbound itinerary. Call for pricing.
Day 23
Depart for Home (B)

Please note that this is a proposed itinerary; the actual itinerary may vary due to season, special events, or weather. Hotels may differ depending on date. Because our tour arrangements are often made a year or more in advance, YMT Vacations reserves the right to alter the itinerary. Itinerary changes are made to improve your vacation experience, as well as respond to any unforeseen circumstances that mandate alterations. By their nature, all tour vacations involve a certain level of physical activity. While YMT tours have been designed with our guests in mind and are not physically demanding, this tour does include walking and periods of standing during the sightseeing visits. You will also encounter steps and some uneven ground along the way, particularly at older, historical sights. Please ask your Travel Consultant for more information.

YMT Vacations itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.

*Inside Cabins receive choice of two set sail offers. Ocean View and Verandahs receive choice of four set sail offers. Unlimited Open Bar and Specialty Dining Package require additional service fees. Click here to view additional offer details.

FREE ONBOARD CREDIT

This tour is no longer available. For 2026 departure dates, check out our Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2026 Tour.

Request A Quote

This tour is no longer available. For 2026 departure dates, check out our Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2026 Tour.

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We’ll get back to you soon. To secure an exclusive limited-time offer for your trip, call 888-860-1969 now to uncover our best-kept secret deals!
Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025
Bondi-beach-australia
Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025
Doubtful Sound, New Zealand
The Laughing Kookaburra, a bird in the kingfisher subfamily, is native to Australia and New Zealand
Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

Inside Cabin

The Inside Cabin rooms at ms Westerdam come with two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed. The room also includes the liner’s signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities.

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

Click to enlarge +

Ocean View

These expansive rooms include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed. The room also includes the liner’s signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities, plus a view of the ocean.

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

Click to enlarge +

Verandah

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these rooms include a sitting area with two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed. Other amenities include the liner’s signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage shower heads.

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

Click to enlarge +


Holland America Line's ms Westerdam Deck Plans

View ms Westerdam's deck plans on the Holland America Line website. Content that you may read on Holland America Line's website may not be applicable to your tour, please speak with a YMT Travel Consultant for clarification.
Click here

FAQs

Can I arrange pre- or post-tour accommodations to extend my trip?

Unfortunately, additional nights are not available from YMT Vacations for this tour. Your YMT Sales Consultant will confirm the specific hotel related to your departure date, and you can then contact the hotel directly to arrange an extended stay.
Can this tour accommodate triples?

Yes, triples are permitted (depending on availability) in 2 beds.
I’m booking my own flights for this tour, what time should I arrive?

You should arrive in Auckland (for Northbound tours) or Sydney (for Southbound tours) no later than 6pm.
Will I need any visas or travel permits for this tour?

Please be aware that visa requirements can vary significantly based on your nationality. There may be additional requirements or conditions not listed in our general information. You can also check U.S. Department of State for the most updated information regarding visa requirements for any country.

Also consider that personal circumstances can greatly influence the time required for visa processing. Some individuals, due to specific situations, may require additional time to complete the visa process. This could be due to a variety of factors and isn’t necessarily reflective of the typical experience.
Will this cruise have a YMT Cruise Host?

Yes, this cruise tour will have a YMT cruise host on board the ship to assist YMT guests.

Add-Ons

Make your vacation extra special by adding optional excursions to your tour. It’s a great opportunity to enhance your trip, these experiences slot seamlessly into your package, and we’ll take care of all the logistics for you. Remember that adding an optional experience might increase the overall activity level of the tour, so always keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Sydney Opera House Guided Tour

Take an exclusive guided tour of the world-famous Sydney Opera House. More than 60 years ago, Jorn Utzon designed what is now considered one of the greatest buildings of all time. The Sydney Opera House Tour brings to life the saga behind the making of the world’s most famous concert venue. Using state-of-the-art audio visual technology, your guide will take you on an emotional journey inside this modern masterpiece. This tour puts Jorn Utzon on center stage and is a tribute to his creative genius. You will discover why Utzon was more than simply an architect: he was an architect of change.

Inclusions

  • Admission to and guided tour of the Sydney Opera House
  • Roundtrip transportation to and from hotel

Note: The opera house has over 300 stairs, YMT recommends comfortable walking shoes.

Duration: Approx. 1.5 Hours (Afternoon)

Activity Level: Moderate/Active

Price: $129 USD

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025
Have It All!

Book Holland America Line’s Have It All package and experience the best of amenities on board your cruise! The package includes shore excursion credits (starting at $100 USD), signature beverage package (up to 15 alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages per day priced up to $11 USD a day), specialty dining for 1 to 3 nights, and free wi-fi throughout your cruise. Enjoy all these amazing features on cruises that are at least 6 days long! Please note that this is in addition to the free onboard credit. Reach out to our travel consultants for more details.

Activity Level: Easy

Price: $60 USD per person per day

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025
Deluxe Full Day Blue Mountains

Spend a day exploring the stunning Blue Mountains. Your first stop is Calmsley Hill, a working farm that’s also home to kangaroos, wombats, emu and more. Sip some tea and wander around at your pace, before proceeding to Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote viewpoint with sweeping views of the Three Sisters. Observe the play of light and shadow on this surreal rock formation. Stop at Blackheath for a two-course lunch, and head out to more lookouts for views of Govetts Leap and majestic waterfalls. Next, enjoy a relaxed evening at Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens as you sip a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice. Head back to Sydney down the Bells Line of Road.

Inclusions

  • Round trip transfers
  • Morning tea
  • National Park Fees
  • 2-course lunch

Note: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Tour is available only on Northbound and Northbound Post-Tour Extension tours in 2025

Duration: Approx. 9 hours

Activity Level: Moderate/Active

Price: $229 USD

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

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Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise 2025

Hawaiian Islands Cruise & Tour
11 Days from $3448 USD $3198 USD

Per person, double occupancy, excludes roundtrip airfare

Our Hawaii cruise offers you the ultimate affordable way to fall in love with the Islands’ beautiful beaches, magnificent views, and exquisite cuisine. Experience the four major islands of Hawaii on this tour.

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