Cruising New Zealand (Frommer's) - Cruise Line Fans: Cruise Forum, Reviews and Chat From Real Cruisers

canarymoon · 10-05-2007, 11:30 AM

A nice article from Frommer's about seeing New Zealand by cruise ship:

New Zealand: Particularly Perfect by Cruiseship

By Heidi Sarna
September 12, 2007
Beautiful New Zealand is an anomaly in the world of travel destinations. Few places on earth can claim such an ideal tourism infrastructure -- great roads, friendly locals and natural beauty -- without the tourists. Sure, more than 2 million visitors do come to New Zealand each year . . . but that's hardly enough to cause traffic jams, crowded hiking trails or cranky hoteliers and tour guides

. . . snip . . .

Touring by car, train, foot and bicycle are all great ways to see New Zealand, but traveling around the country by cruise ship holds its own special appeal. The major ports are close together so ships can offer nearly a stop a day while circumnavigating the islands. Better yet, this part of the world hasn't been overrun by cruise ships yet, so yours will likely be the only one in town.

FULL ARTICLE HERE: New Zealand: Particularly Perfect by Cruiseship | Frommers.com

canarymoon · 10-05-2007, 11:32 AM

Some tips from the above article:

Kiwi Cruise Tips

Be prepared for fluctuating temperatures (between about 45 to 75 F degrees), wind and rain. Pack layers and rain gear.
The Tasman Sea, between New Zealand and Australia, is known to be one of the roughest in the world. Expect some swells and rocky seas during the two-day crossing.
In the southern part of the south island, where the super-scenic Dusky, Doubtful and Milford Sounds reside, winds can gust to 50 or 60 knots. Though included on most itineraries as a cruising day (passengers don't disembark), there's always a risk the captain will cancel a trip into the sounds because of weather conditions.
When it comes to wildlife, it's down there, but not necessarily easy to spot. Sheep are everywhere, but penguins are illusive (and some endangered), albatross only show up when it's windy (it helps them fly), and kiwi birds are nocturnal as are many of Australia's stars -- wallabies, wombats and Tasmanian Devils.

canarymoon · 10-05-2007, 11:34 AM

The article also has a short paragraph about each of 8 different places there, each with links, so it looks like a nice starting point for anyone doing pre-cruise research for their cruise to the land of the Kiwi.

Enjoy!