Australia & New Zealand Cruise

January 5–21, 2028

Experience the beauty of Australia and New Zealand on a spectacular cruise journey featuring vibrant cities, coastal communities, scenic cruising, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Southern Hemisphere.

Wednesday, January 5, 2028 — Sydney, Australia

Embarkation

• Embark in Sydney
• Cruise departs: 6:00 PM

Thursday, January 6, 2028 — Eden, Australia

Port of Call

• Arrive: 9:30 AM
• Depart: 6:00 PM

Enjoy time exploring the coastal town of Eden, located on the beautiful Sapphire Coast of New South Wales.

Friday, January 7, 2028 — At Sea

Day at Sea

Enjoy a relaxing day aboard the ship as we cruise toward Tasmania.

Saturday, January 8, 2028 — Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

Overnight in Port

• Arrive: 8:00 AM
• Overnight in Hobart

Spend the day exploring Hobart, Tasmania's charming capital, known for its waterfront, historic architecture, galleries, markets, and access to the spectacular Tasmanian wilderness.

Sunday, January 9, 2028 — Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

Port of Call

• Depart: 5:00 PM

Enjoy additional time in Hobart before continuing the journey toward New Zealand.

Monday, January 10 & Tuesday, January 11, 2028 — At Sea

Days at Sea

Relax and enjoy the amenities aboard the ship as we cross the Tasman Sea toward New Zealand.

Wednesday, January 12, 2028 — Milford Sound, New Zealand

Scenic Cruising

Experience scenic cruising through Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural landscapes. Admire dramatic mountains, waterfalls, and rugged fjord scenery from the ship.

Thursday, January 13, 2028 — Dunedin, New Zealand

Port of Call

• Arrive: 7:30 AM
• Depart: 5:00 PM

Explore Dunedin, a city known for its Scottish heritage, Victorian architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to the spectacular Otago Peninsula.

Friday, January 14, 2028 — Christchurch, New Zealand

Port of Call

• Arrive: 8:00 AM
• Depart: 5:00 PM

Discover Christchurch, known as the "Garden City," with its beautiful parks, gardens, architecture, and vibrant post-earthquake transformation.

Saturday, January 15, 2028 — Picton, New Zealand

Port of Call

• Arrive: 8:00 AM
• Depart: 8:00 PM

Spend the day in Picton, gateway to the beautiful Marlborough Sounds and one of New Zealand's renowned wine-producing regions.

Sunday, January 16, 2028 — Wellington, New Zealand

Port of Call

• Arrive: 8:00 AM
• Depart: 6:00 PM

Explore Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, known for its waterfront, cultural attractions, museums, cafés, and lively arts scene.

Monday, January 17, 2028 — Napier, New Zealand

Port of Call

• Arrive: 10:30 AM
• Depart: 10:00 PM

Enjoy an extended visit to Napier, famous for its distinctive Art Deco architecture and its location in the heart of the Hawke's Bay wine region.

Tuesday, January 18, 2028 — Gisborne, New Zealand

Port of Call

• Arrive: 8:00 AM
• Depart: 4:00 PM

Explore Gisborne, a relaxed coastal destination known for its beaches, vineyards, local food, and Māori heritage.

Wednesday, January 19, 2028 — Tauranga, New Zealand

Port of Call

• Arrive: 8:00 AM
• Depart: 5:00 PM

Visit Tauranga, gateway to the Bay of Plenty and the nearby coastal town of Mount Maunganui.

Thursday, January 20, 2028 — Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Tender Port

• Arrive: 8:00 AM
• Depart: 8:00 PM

Enjoy a full day in the beautiful Bay of Islands, an area rich in maritime history, Māori culture, beaches, and scenic islands.

Friday, January 21, 2028 — Auckland, New Zealand

Disembarkation

• Arrive: 7:00 AM
• Disembark in Auckland

Your Australia and New Zealand cruise adventure comes to an end in Auckland.

Australia and New Zealand are ideal destinations for a January adventure. Since January falls in the Southern Hemisphere's summer, travelers can expect generally warm weather, long daylight hours, and excellent opportunities for outdoor exploration. New Zealand's summer runs from December through February, although temperatures can vary considerably from region to region.

This itinerary combines Australia's sophisticated cities and coastal landscapes with Tasmania's natural beauty and a wonderful sampling of New Zealand's North and South Islands. Along the way, we'll experience fjords, vineyards, beaches, historic cities, Māori culture, wildlife, gardens, and some truly spectacular scenery.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney is one of the world's great harbor cities and the perfect place to begin our Australia and New Zealand adventure. Its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge create one of the most recognizable cityscapes in the world, but Sydney is much more than its famous landmarks.

The city combines beautiful beaches, historic neighborhoods, museums, gardens, restaurants, and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle. January is summer in Australia, making it an excellent time to enjoy Sydney's waterfront and beaches.

Things to Experience

• Sydney Opera House
• Sydney Harbour Bridge
• The Rocks historic district
• Royal Botanic Garden
• Circular Quay
• Bondi Beach
• Darling Harbour

Suitcase Gals Suggestion

Consider arriving a day or two before the cruise to give yourself time to experience Sydney without feeling rushed before embarkation.

Eden, Australia

Located along New South Wales' Sapphire Coast, Eden is a charming coastal community surrounded by beaches, forests, and spectacular ocean scenery. It is one of Australia's southernmost coastal towns and has a long maritime history.

Eden's location on Twofold Bay has played an important role in the town's history, particularly its association with whaling. Today, visitors come for the scenery, wildlife, beaches, fresh seafood, and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Things to Experience

• Eden Killer Whale Museum
• Twofold Bay
• Ben Boyd National Park
• Coastal walks and viewpoints
• Local seafood
• Beaches and waterfront

Suitcase Gals Suggestion

Eden gives us a chance to experience a smaller Australian coastal community rather than simply visiting the country's major cities.

Hobart, Tasmania

Hobart, Tasmania's capital, is one of Australia's most atmospheric cities. Set along the Derwent River and surrounded by mountains, it combines historic architecture, a lively waterfront, an impressive food scene, art, and easy access to Tasmania's wilderness.

January is summer in Tasmania, although temperatures are generally milder than those experienced in many parts of mainland Australia.

Because our ship remains overnight, we have the luxury of enjoying Hobart without trying to squeeze everything into a single day.

Things to Experience

• Salamanca Place
• Battery Point
• Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
• Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
• Mount Wellington/Kunanyi
• Hobart waterfront
• Tasmanian food and wine
• Bruny Island

Food and Wine

Tasmania is known for exceptional seafood, wine, cheese, produce, and other locally sourced specialties. A food and wine excursion can be an excellent way to experience the region.

Milford Sound, New Zealand

Scenic Cruising

Milford Sound is one of the spectacular highlights of this journey.

Located within Fiordland National Park on New Zealand's South Island, Milford Sound is a dramatic fjord surrounded by towering mountains, steep cliffs, and waterfalls. Since our visit is scenic cruising rather than a port call, the ship provides our front-row seat to the landscape.

This is a day to slow down and watch the scenery unfold.

Keep an Eye Out For

• Mitre Peak
• Waterfalls cascading down the cliffs
• Rugged mountain peaks
• Seals
• Seabirds
• Rainforest-covered slopes

Suitcase Gals Suggestion

Keep your camera nearby, but don't forget to simply stand on deck and take it all in. The landscape can change dramatically as the ship moves through the fjord.

Dunedin, New Zealand

Dunedin is a city with a distinctly Scottish personality. Founded by Scottish settlers, it features impressive Victorian and Edwardian architecture, a lively cultural scene, and easy access to the Otago Peninsula.

The surrounding peninsula is particularly appealing for wildlife enthusiasts and is home to an extraordinary variety of marine and bird life.

Things to Experience

• Dunedin Railway Station
• Historic city center
• Larnach Castle
• Otago Peninsula
• Royal Albatross Centre
• Wildlife viewing
• Local food and cafés

For Wildlife Lovers

An excursion to the Otago Peninsula can provide opportunities to see albatross, seals, penguins, and other wildlife.

Christchurch, New Zealand

Known as New Zealand's "Garden City," Christchurch is filled with parks, gardens, tree-lined streets, and beautiful open spaces. The city has also undergone a remarkable transformation following the devastating 2011 earthquake.

Today, Christchurch blends historic character with contemporary architecture, art, restaurants, and public spaces.

Things to Experience

• Christchurch Botanic Gardens
• Avon River
• Punting on the Avon
• Cathedral Square
• Cardboard Cathedral
• Christchurch Gondola
• Local shops and cafés

A Great Way to See the City

A leisurely punt along the Avon River offers a relaxing perspective of Christchurch and its beautiful gardens and surrounding scenery.

Picton, New Zealand

Picton is a picturesque seaside town and the gateway to the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. The region is also one of New Zealand's premier wine-producing areas.

The combination of beautiful waterways, rolling hills, vineyards, and small-town charm makes this one of the more relaxed stops on our itinerary.

Things to Experience

• Marlborough Sounds cruise
• Wine tasting
• Marlborough vineyards
• Seafood lunch
• Picton waterfront
• Scenic walks
• Nearby Blenheim

For Wine Lovers

A day exploring the Marlborough wine region is an excellent way to experience one of New Zealand's most celebrated wine areas.

Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington is New Zealand's capital and one of its most culturally vibrant cities. Built around a beautiful harbor and surrounded by green hills, Wellington is known for museums, art, cafés, restaurants, and a lively creative community.

Things to Experience

• Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand's national museum
• Wellington Cable Car
• Wellington Botanic Garden
• Waterfront
• Cuba Street
• Wētā Workshop
• Zealandia wildlife sanctuary

Good to Know

Wellington is particularly well known for its strong winds, even during summer. A lightweight jacket or windbreaker is useful.

Napier, New Zealand

Napier is one of New Zealand's most distinctive cities. Rebuilt in the Art Deco style following a devastating 1931 earthquake, the city is now famous for its elegant geometric architecture and colorful historic buildings.

Napier is also located in Hawke's Bay, one of New Zealand's important wine regions.

Things to Experience

• Art Deco walking tour
• Hawke's Bay wineries
• Wine tasting
• Napier waterfront
• Local cafés and restaurants
• Cape Kidnappers
• Boutique shopping

Suitcase Gals Suggestion

Pair an Art Deco tour with a winery visit for a day that combines history, architecture, food, and wine.

Gisborne, New Zealand

Gisborne sits on New Zealand's east coast and offers a more relaxed, less urban experience. The region is known for beautiful beaches, vineyards, local produce, and a strong Māori cultural heritage.

Gisborne is part of the Tairāwhiti region, an area where Māori culture and history are an important part of the visitor experience.

Things to Experience

• Tairāwhiti Museum
• Local vineyards
• Gisborne waterfront
• Beaches
• Māori cultural experiences
• Local food and wine
• Scenic coastal drives

For Food and Wine Lovers

Gisborne has a strong reputation for Chardonnay and other locally produced wines.

Tauranga, New Zealand

Tauranga is located in the Bay of Plenty on New Zealand's North Island. It is a popular coastal destination known for beaches, outdoor activities, and the nearby resort town of Mount Maunganui.

Mount Maunganui's long sandy beach and distinctive volcanic cone provide one of the region's signature landscapes.

Things to Experience

• Mount Maunganui
• Mount Maunganui Beach
• Tauranga waterfront
• Scenic harbor cruise
• Local cafés and shops
• Māori cultural experiences
• Excursion to Rotorua

For an Active Day

Travelers who enjoy walking can explore the area around Mount Maunganui, while those looking for a more relaxed experience can enjoy the beach and waterfront.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

The Bay of Islands is a beautiful maritime region made up of more than 140 islands. With its sheltered waters, beaches, historic towns, and rich Māori heritage, it is one of New Zealand's most scenic destinations.

This is also an important area in New Zealand's history. The Waitangi Treaty Grounds provide an opportunity to learn about the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi and the relationship between Māori and the British Crown.

Things to Experience

• Waitangi Treaty Grounds
• Bay of Islands scenic cruise
• Paihia
• Historic Russell
• Dolphin watching
• Māori cultural experiences
• Coastal sightseeing

Suitcase Gals Suggestion

A boat excursion provides a wonderful overview of the islands, while Waitangi offers a deeper look at New Zealand's history and culture.

Auckland, New Zealand

Our journey ends in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Known as the "City of Sails," Auckland is built around two harbors and offers an interesting combination of urban attractions, Māori and Polynesian culture, beaches, volcanic landscapes, and nearby wine country.

The city is a wonderful place to extend your stay after the cruise.

Things to Experience

• Sky Tower
• Viaduct Harbour
• Auckland Museum
• Mount Eden
• Auckland waterfront
• Waiheke Island
• Wine tasting
• Māori and Polynesian cultural experiences

A Few Things to Know Before You Go

January Is Summer

January is summer in both Australia and New Zealand. Australia experiences its summer from December through February, while New Zealand's summer also runs from December through February.

Temperatures can vary considerably, however. Sydney can be quite warm, while Hobart is generally cooler. New Zealand's mountainous terrain also creates numerous microclimates, so layers are important.

Pack for Variety

For this particular cruise, think lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and layers. A lightweight rain jacket is also useful. New Zealand can experience summer showers, and weather conditions can change quickly.

Expect Plenty of Walking

Many of these destinations are best experienced on foot, and several excursions involve walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable shoes are one of the most important things you can pack.

The Scenery Is Part of the Experience

One of the wonderful things about this itinerary is that not every experience requires an excursion. Some of the most memorable moments may happen simply by standing on deck as the ship approaches a new destination or cruises through Milford Sound.

New Zealand's cruise destinations are particularly well suited to a variety of experiences, from scenic beauty and wildlife to Māori culture, food, wine, and outdoor activities.

The Suitcase Gals Perspective

This isn't simply a trip to "check off" Australia and New Zealand. It is an opportunity to experience two remarkable countries at a comfortable pace, discover smaller communities as well as major cities, try new foods and wines, learn about different cultures, and share the experience with a group of women who love to travel.

Come for the destinations. Stay for the friendships. Leave with memories you'll be talking about for years to come.