Set between sparkling harbours and volcanic hills, cruises from Auckland open the door to adventures across New Zealand, Australia, Asia and the South Pacific. Once primarily a start or end point, Auckland now offers round trips and one way sailings that suit first timers and cruisers alike. Whether you want a short cruise for a quick reset or a longer voyage with more sea days, you will find plenty of choice departing this waterfront city. Add a night before you sail to sample waterfront dining, galleries and island wineries, then step aboard ready to relax. Itineraries range from weekend tasters to two week journeys that circle both islands or cross the Tasman to Sydney and Melbourne. Some cruises from New Zealand continue onward to Singapore, perfect if you want to pair your voyage with travel. Whichever direction you choose, expect warm service, dramatic coastlines and easy access from downtown Auckland.
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Why Sail From Auckland
A cruise from Auckland lets you pair big city energy with coastal beauty in every direction. Spend time on black sand beaches on the West Coast, wander the galleries and restaurants around the Viaduct, then board your ship ready to relax. Itineraries range from two or three night short cruises to weeklong loops around the North and South Islands, plus repositioning journeys that continue to Australia or Asia. If you are browsing for ideas, try our Cruise Finder to filter by date, ship and line.
Popular cruise destinations from Auckland
• New Zealand highlights: Follow the classic circuit to ports such as Tauranga, Wellington, Akaroa for Christchurch and Dunedin. For a deeper look, compare New Zealand cruises to plan a route that matches your wish list.
• Australia: Many travellers choose cruises from Auckland to Australia, with sailings to Sydney, Melbourne and Hobart. Several are one way itineraries that cross the Tasman with extra sea days. To weigh up value on longer passages, see our guide to repositioning cruises.
• South Pacific: Trade city vistas for palm lined lagoons on voyages to Lifou, Suva and Port Vila. For island hopping inspiration, browse South Pacific cruises.
• Asia: Seasonal one way cruises from Auckland to Asia often finish in hubs like Singapore, a smart base for further travel. Explore departure options on our Singapore page.
Types of Cruises
Short cruises from Auckland are popular for quick getaways and celebrations. Longer itineraries add time to enjoy specialty dining, entertainment and sea day downtime. Some cruises from New Zealand combine both islands before heading to Australia or Asia. If price is your priority, start with today’s cruise deals and refine by month or cruise line.
Cruises from Auckland FAQ’s
Where do cruise ships leave from in Auckland?
Cruise ships from Auckland typically leave from either Princes Wharf or Queens Wharf. Have no fear, as both of these wharves are located right next to each other, so if you end up going to the wrong one, it’s just a quick taxi ride to the other. If you have some extra time before your cruise from Auckland, be sure to check out some of the local restaurants at Princes Wharf. While there, take some time basking in the gorgeous Auckland waterfront on one side or the impressive city skyline on the other. Otherwise, Auckland’s city centre is within walking distance from both Queens and Princes Wharf, allowing you to do some quick sightseeing (if you have the time) before your Auckland cruise!
How far is Auckland Airport from the Cruise Terminal?
The Auckland Airport is approximately a 30 minute taxi drive from both Queens Wharf and Princes Wharf. Bear in mind this travel time can increase to up to 50 minutes during peak, so plan your travel arrangements accordingly. Alternatively, cruise lines usually offer an option of a shuttle bus that will take you from the airport directly to where you need to be, taking out all the hassle with the logistics. Contact your cruise line once you’ve booked your cruises from Auckland to find out if this option is available for you.
If you wish to (potentially) save some money instead of taking an airport transfer, you can try your luck with booking either an external shuttle bus or taking public transport. External shuttle busses are usually at a cheaper cost (namely on return trips), however, may not drop you off exactly where you need to be. Similarly, taking public transport from the airport to the cruise terminal is by far the cheapest option. Nevertheless, travel times range wildly between 1-1.5 hours and may require you to make multiple transfers depending on the route you take. We advise that this option should only be done for those who know the area and don’t mind carrying your luggage fair distances.
What cruise lines depart from Auckland?
Cruise lines that depart from Auckland, New Zealand include:
- Azamara Cruises
- Celebrity Cruises
- Cunard Cruises
- Holland America Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Oceania Cruises
- P&O Cruises UK
- Ponant Cruises
- Princess Cruises
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Seabourn Cruises
- Silversea Cruises
- Viking Cruises
What website should I go for the best Auckland Cruise Deals?
For cheap cruise deals from Auckland, look to no other website than Cruise Guru. With an extensive selection of must-see itineraries available year-round at the lowest prices, you’ll be hard pressed to find another website online that offers a cheaper deal. Book with Cruise Guru on your next holiday and start saving now!
Before or After Your Cruise
Make the most of Auckland by adding a night or two. Climb the Harbour Bridge, sample markets in Britomart, or take a ferry to Waiheke for vineyards and coastal walks. Families appreciate easy access to parks and beaches, while food lovers will find excellent coffee and waterfront dining.
Group and Multi-Cabins
Planning a celebration or conference at sea is simple with our dedicated Group Travel team. If you are organising eight or more cabins, we can coordinate dining, payments and any pre or post arrangements. Learn how group bookings work and what perks may apply.
Last Minute and Cheap Options
If your dates are flexible, last minute cruises from Auckland can offer sharp pricing. Begin at our last minute page, then filter by length and cabin type to compare what suits you best. For budget planning across the year, keep an eye on short cruises as they often bundle great value with minimal time off work.
Uncertainties and Tips
Sailings that cross the Tasman vary in length and may be direct or include New Zealand ports. Specific port calls and onboard offerings change by ship and season, so always review itinerary details for the sailing you plan to book. When you are ready, start with the Auckland cruises tab and compare dates to lock in the right match. Prefer another gateway? Explore cruises from Sydney, cruises from Brisbane or cruises from Melbourne.
Booking with Cruise Guru
Cruise Guru brings together a wide range of cruises from Auckland with live availability, clear inclusions and our Price Guarantee for confidence at checkout. If you prefer to talk through options, call 13 13 03 or request a call back form our Australian team and we will help you shortlist sailings that fit your timing and budget. To keep up with promotions, competitions and newly added itineraries, follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X.
