Short break New Zealand cruises from Auckland or Australia are fantastic for anyone who has never cruised before and is curious as to what cruising is like but doesn’t want to commit to the seven-night plus cruises with the fear of hating it.

Getaway New Zealand cruises are extremely great value for money.  I recently returned from the four-night Bay of Islands P&O cruise on the Pacific Pearl.

Our cruise started at $426.00 per person for an outside cabin. Yes, we were on the bottom deck with the doctor, but we still had a port hole and our cabin was very spacious with all the amenities that you need. I prefer it down on the lower decks – if you can’t get a balcony cabin – as you don’t get as much movement. This is good for those who have a tendency to get sea sick.

I have cruised many times before and this trip was with a group of 15 friends and we all had an amazing time. All the food and entertainment are included, so we only had to pay for our drinks (there were a few) and also we chose to dine at the Luke Mangan Restaurant which had a surcharge. It is well worth doing this, especially on a longer cruise, just to experience the special fine dining with only a limited number of people: great for a special occasion celebration. Oh yes, our other expense was Bingo – got to love Bingo on a cruise ship!

pacific pearl NZ cruiseIt is great having a port to visit, and we all had a lovely day in Paihia. We had to tender ashore (take a lifeboat from our boat) and the cruise company offered free transfers to and from the township. This took a little bit of queuing to disembark, but we chose to leave a little later so it wasn’t too long.

I have done these New Zealand cruises as a family reunion, girls’ weekend away and as a couple. Cruising suits everyone.

I’m looking forward to going on another short cruise. The NZ season is at the end of the year. Might just have to get another wee group together.

If you’re keen on the sound of short break New Zealand cruises, then keep reading or call Michelle at Bucket List Travel in Red Beach on 09 426 1490.

Tours in East Asia

Package includes

  • Accommodation with private ensuite
  • Full breakfast
  • Buffet or a la carte lunch menu
  • Buffet or 4 course a la carte dinners
  • Musical stage shows and entertainment
  • Special guest entertainers
  • Fully supervised children’s programs for ages 3 to 17 years
  • Flat screen TV for in-cabin entertainment
  • Latest release movies (in cabin and on big screen)
  • In cabin safe

Cruising is such a great value holiday as your fare includes accommodations, all main meals onboard ship, onboard daytime activities, and night-time entertainment including live stage shows.

One reason cruising is good value is that you’ll know what most of your holiday will cost before you go. Generally, your only extra onboard expenses could be your beverages, optional shore excursions, personal services such as spa treatments, and any purchases at the gift and duty-free shops.