New Zealand

Small Ship Cruises & Expeditions

Best of New Zealand

For such a small country, New Zealand offers an enormous array of options when it comes to cruising

Known as the land of the long white cloud (Aoteraroa), New Zealand features the 9th longest coastline in the world measuring 15,000 kilometres and offers immensely enjoyable and undulating scenery. On a Kiwi adventure, see the likes of the sunken valleys and towering mountains of Fiordland; the crystalline waters, golden beaches, and coves of the Bay of Islands; the diverse marine life of Hauraki Gulf; the scenic playground of Marlborough Sounds; the iconic wildlife havens of Stewart Island and many iconic Kiwi towns along the way including the Scottish city of Dunedin, the Garden City of Christchurch, and the rich fertile soils of Gisborne.

Essential experiences in New Zealand include:

Akaroa: Nestled in the harbour of an extinct volcano on Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is a charming fishing village popular with Christchurch residents for weekend trips.

Napier: Located in Hawke's Bay, Napier is known for its art deco architecture, fine wines, and Mediterranean climate. Visitors can enjoy bird watching at Cape Kidnappers and stroll along the picturesque seafront.

Fiordland National Park. A World Heritage site, Fiordland boasts rugged mountains, dense rainforests, alpine lakes, and sparkling waterfalls. Milford Sound, the most famous fiord, is accessible by road and offers breathtaking scenery. Accessible only by boat via Lake Manapouri, Doubtful Sound provides a serene contrast to Milford Sound. Visitors can spot New Zealand Fur Seals and Fiordland Crested Penguins.

Auckland: New Zealand's largest city offers a mix of natural beauty and modern attractions. Highlights include the Māori taonga collection, Rotoroa Island, Waiheke Island's wineries, and the Sky Tower's SkyWalk and SkyJump.

Stewart Island. Known for its glowing skies, Stewart Island offers a slower, nature-focused lifestyle with opportunities for walking, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Wellington: The vibrant seaside capital is known for its buzzing bars, cafes, and creative scene. Visitors can enjoy shows, art installations, and diverse culinary experiences.

The Chatham Islands. New Zealand's easternmost outpost features stunning scenery, cultural treasures, and a relaxed lifestyle. Visitors can enjoy seafood, outdoor activities, and the pristine waters of the Southern Pacific Ocean.

New Zealand Highlights

Benefits of Booking with Wild Earth Travel

Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 30 years' experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe.

• We Are Travellers. Our team of small ship cruise specialists is very well travelled. We have led small ship cruises all over the world and experienced the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet, and we love sharing our experiences with you!

• Unbiased Advice. Our team are all passionate expedition and small cruise ship travellers, and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences, which we then use to match you with the best small ship options for you.

• Largest Choice Providers. Our collection of small ship cruises is constantly growing, we now feature over 1200 cruises aboard more than 80 small ships. Our insider knowledge of the industry means there is barely a ship or a destination worldwide that we haven't experienced.

• Convenience Matters. We offer you the ability to pay in the original currency of the ship operator, meaning that you won't pay more in currency buffers. You can be assured that you are in safe hands as our team of specialists guide you through the entire booking process.

• Personalised Service. As you prepare for your cruise, we will be in touch to ensure you have everything you need, from packing lists and suggested reading lists to pre- and post- transfers and accommodation. For some cruises, there may be the option to add on extra activities.

• New Zealand is our backyard! We are proud to call this beautiful country home, and can’t wait to share it with you.

New Zealand & Subantarctic Islands Brochure

Featured New Zealand Cruises

Below is a selection of expedition cruises we offer in New Zealand. Our collection ranges from 4 to 20 days, and from adventure and expedition to luxury-style ships.

Save up to $1,553 AUD
NZ & Australia / New Zealand

Discover Marlborough Sounds: An In-Depth Exploration of the Marlborough Sounds

7 days from
$644 AUD per day
NZ & Australia / New Zealand

Expedition to New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands

15 days from
$1,134 AUD per day
  • New Zealand Luxury ExpeditionLuxury Expedition
  • Expedition to New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands in New Zealand: ship
  • Next departure on Dec. 29, 2025
Save up to $1,733 AUD
NZ & Australia / New Zealand

Southern Fiords Discovery: A Deep Exploration of Fiordland's Southern Fiords

7 days from
$720 AUD per day
NZ & Australia / New Zealand

Subantarctic Discovery Expedition From Dunedin, New Zealand

15 days from
$1,020 USD per day
NZ & Australia / New Zealand

Expedition to the Heart of New Zealand - 12 Days from Auckland to Dunedin

12 days from
enquire
NZ & Australia / New Zealand

New Zealand Coastal Odyssey: The Ultimate Expedition Cruise of the New Zealand Coast

14 days from
$612 AUD per day

If you're interested in learning about some of our additional New Zealand itineraries, please contact us. You may also be interested in specific New Zealand regions such as The Chatham Islands or Subantarctic Islands.

Watch Our New Zealand Webinars

Mystical Fiordland

Step into a mystical world of untouched forest, mountains and fiords as expedition guide, Glenda Darling takes us through New Zealand's remarkable Fiordland. In this discussion, find out: - Why Fiordland should be on your bucket list - The Ins and Outs of expedition cruising Fiordland

Watch Here

Explore the Chatham Islands

Expedition guide, Aaron Russ, takes us through the untouched wilderness, rich wildlife, and unique culture of the Chatham Islands

Watch Here

Subantarctic Islands

Reservation Specialist, Ellen, takes us through small ship cruising the Subantarctic Islands. Included in this presentation is: - Her highlights - An overview from expedition leader, Aaron Russ - Short video of the islands - Itinerary options

Watch Here

Ready to Learn More?

We look forward to helping you plan an incredible adventure to New Zealand

Choose Your Adventure!