Are you craving a memorable getaway filled with spectacular scenery, unique wildlife, charming ports of call and your pick of fine wines? A New Zealand Discovery Cruise aboard the Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’ is just the ticket you’re looking for.
Begin your holiday in Sydney with time at leisure before cruising the Trans-Tasman journey in style aboard RCI’s Quantum Class vessel. As one of the largest cruise ship's in the ocean, 'Ovation of the Seas' packs a punch for entertainment, activities, facilities, dining and shopping.
The cruise takes you to diverse locations, such as magnificent Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds, where you’ll have the chance to witness some of the world’s highest waterfalls and stunning fjords. While there, search for dolphins, yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, magnificent royal albatross and whales.
Enjoy the local culture by visiting vibrant Dunedin with its proud Scottish heritage and marvel at Wellington's Maori artefacts and culture. No trip to New Zealand is complete without a visit to picturesque Picton, providing ideal access to the world-renowned Marlborough wine region, famous for its award-winning sauvignon blancs.
Experience the pristine landscapes and rich food and wine culture of New Zealand on an unforgettable cruise. This deal includes one night of hotel accommodation in Sydney, a 10-night Royal Caribbean cruise, 29 meals including all while cruising and much more.
Want more? Choose our optional Ocean View or Balcony Cabin upgrades to take in views anywhere and anytime on the cruise.
Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.
Please make your own travel arrangements to Sydney and check into your centrally located accommodation.
Enjoy your day at leisure in one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Sydney offers so much, from beaches and wineries to stunning landmarks and world-class shopping.
Sydney is not only Australia’s oldest city, it is also one of the most ethnically diverse cities on the globe, offering a wealth of cuisines, unique museums, and cultural opportunities.
Visit architectural marvels including the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, then explore lively pubs, shops, and historic buildings at The Rocks, located on Sydney Harbour.
Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Overnight: Centrally located Sydney hotel (Standard or premium option)
Meals included: None
(Departs at 18:45)
Enjoy a free morning before making your own way to the cruise terminal in time for boarding.
This afternoon, you will embark on your 10-night New Zealand cruise aboard the Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’.
Once onboard and settled in, make your way up on deck, grab a drink and join the Sail Away party to celebrate the start of your journey to New Zealand.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Dinner
Take your time to orientate yourself with the multitude of entertainment options available on the incredible ‘Ovation of the Seas’. Check out the Royal Esplanade with a wonderful selection of restaurants, cafés and bars complete with the English-style pub, Amber & Oak, and Sorrento's pizza bar for late night snacks.
Wander through the many onboard boutiques and shops to choose from beautiful jewellery, souvenirs and other accessories.
How about dinner and a show? Book a table with world-class cuisine, and extraordinary personal service in the four complimentary main dining rooms or (for an additional cost) choose from one of the amazing specialty restaurants, including Chops Grille, Wonderland or Jamie's Italian, then head off to a Broadway show in the main theatre.
Feel like something a little more casual? Grab a table at the Solarium Bistro, Izumi Japanese or there is always the option to enjoy the 'all you can eat' buffet at the Windjammer Marketplace.
Take a dip in the various pools, spas and whirlpools or book yourself a session in the onboard spa Vitality, with a broad choice of relaxing and therapeutic massages and pampering spa treatments.
Be sure to stop by the most talked-about bar on the ship and unofficially dubbed the "robot bar", this is where drinks are shaken and served by the pair of Makr Shakr robotic bartenders.
You will be spoiled for choice aboard Royal Caribbean’s ‘Ovation of the Seas’.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
If you haven't yet sampled all the various entertainment or dining options on the incredible ‘Ovation of the Seas', you'll want to take a wander down Royal Esplanade. Here, you'll find a fantastic selection of restaurants, cafés and bars.
Looking for some evening fun with dinner and a show? Book a table and sample world-class cuisine, and extraordinary personal service in one of the four complimentary main dining rooms or (for an additional cost) choose from one of the impressive specialty restaurants before heading off to a Broadway show in the main theatre.
There are plenty of casual dining options to please the entire family, including the Solarium Bistro, Japanese Izumi for fresh-rolled sushi and Windjammer Marketplace for 'all you can eat' buffets, where you'll find a mix of international cuisines. Anyone for pizza? Grab a table at Sorrento’s, which has late-night dining options and is the perfect spot after an evening dancing in the Latin-themed lounge bar and nightclub, Boleros. Feeling thirsty? Meet friends or make new ones in one of the many bars onboard, including Schooner, North Star or Diamond Lounge.
If you're feeling adventurous, try rock climbing, or the surf and skydive simulators. Relax poolside, try a spa or whirlpool plunge, or take relaxation to the next level with a pamper session in the onboard spa Vitality, where you can choose from therapeutic massages and luxury spa treatments.
Take high-tech drink service to the next level at Bionic Bar, where drinks are shaken and served by the Makr Shakr robotic bartenders. Then head off to the shops onboard and pick up some treasures to remember your cruise.
You find plenty to keep you entertained aboard Royal Caribbean’s ‘Ovation of the Seas’.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
In the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island lies one of the most dramatic and beautiful parts of the country. Of New Zealand's 18,000 kilometres of coastline, the Sounds offer some of the most memorable scenery and wildlife.
The Fiordland National Park is a remarkable natural environment that features spectacular fjords, magnificent waterfalls and snow-capped peaks. The mountains are adorned with an ancient rainforest, while waterfalls cascade down hundreds of metres into grand fjords. Shimmering lakes and granite peaks remain unchanged for centuries, preserving their appearance from a thousand years ago.
Perhaps the most famous of the fjords in the national park are the spectacular Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound. These not-to-be-missed landscapes are truly bucket-list locations and, on your Royal Caribbean cruise, you have the chance to experience all three.
Milford Sound: Scenic Cruising from 08:00 - 09:00
Mountains and waterfalls abound in South Island's Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's top attractions and a site of otherworldly beauty. Called the eighth wonder of the world by novelist Rudyard Kipling, the sound (technically a fjord) is part of Fiordland National Park and the 2.6 million-hectare Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take in the surrounding nature on your Milford Sound cruise, passing by green cliffs and plummeting waterfalls like Lady Bowen Falls. Along the way, take in the famous Milford Track: suspension bridges, boardwalks and mountain passes take you past stunning vistas of emerald-green mountains and valleys, as well as Sutherland Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Zealand.
Fur seals like to sun themselves on the aptly named Seal Rock, so they can be easy to spot. In Milford Sound, you may be able to spot penguins and perhaps a pod of dolphins. Whales sometimes come into the fjord, too — so watch out for their tail splashes during your cruise.
Doubtful Sound: Scenic Cruising from 13:00 - 14:00
Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second-largest fjord in New Zealand. It was named by Captain Cook, the first European to chart the coast, because he was doubtful he would be able to sail his ship, 'HMS Endeavour', out of the sound due to the westerly winds. Look for the area's towering waterfalls: See heights of 619-metre and 836-metre cascades in Browne Falls near Hall Arm and 220-metre Helena Falls at Deep Cove. Try to spot dolphins, penguins and fur seals in the waters and shoreline during your Doubtful Sound cruise.
Doubtful Sound is quite remote. The closest towns are roughly 55 kilometres away on nearby lakes Te Anau and Manapouri, so most visitors to the area come aboard ships. Take in the vastness of the epic scenery and the quiet stillness of the fjord.
Thanks to the more than 200 days of rainfall every year in Fiordland National Park, Doubtful Sound has plenty of waterfalls to admire. You might even see a rainbow when the sun comes out during your Doubtful Sound cruise. Helena Falls in Deep Cove is particularly spectacular after heavy rain.
Dusky Sound: Scenic Cruising from 16:00 - 17:00
Dusky Sound lies among the grand fjords of Fiordland National Park. Named by Captain Cook when he sailed by at dusk on his first voyage in 1770, this spot holds one of the area's largest fjords, at almost 40 kilometres long. During the rainy season, you can spot hundreds of waterfalls splashing down from the verdant green hills into the dark deep waters. During your Dusky Sound cruise, look out for historic Astronomer's Point, a former observatory dating back to Cook's second voyage in 1773, which overlooks the dramatic fjord.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
(Arrives at 09:00 and departs at 19:00)
On the southeast coast of New Zealand's South Island, on the Otago Peninsula, you'll find Dunedin. The city basks in its Scottish heritage — its name being the Gaelic word for Edinburgh. No Scottish city would be complete without a castle: Explore Dunedin's Victorian-era Larnach Castle and Gardens, a Gothic Revival mansion surrounded by impeccably manicured rows of rhododendrons, azaleas and Scottish heather. Then, check out Baldwin Street, the world's steepest residential street.
Explore St. Paul's Cathedral, The Octagon, in the city centre. Or make the worthwhile 32 kilometre journey to Taiaroa Head at the tip of the Otago Peninsula, where unique wildlife abounds: enjoy a chance to spot the rare yellow-eyed penguin, New Zealand fur seals and royal albatross.
The city centre is walkable from the cruise terminal. George Street, heading north from The Octagon, has the most shops and restaurants to enjoy a day meandering among fashion and food.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
(Arrives at 09:00 and departs at 19:00)
Lyttelton lives up to the quaintness implied by its name, with a population of just under 3000 people – yet the welcoming town is home to big travel attractions and major beauty.
Head into downtown Lyttelton to explore independent boutiques and a lively arts scene. Pop in for an afternoon theatre performance at the popular Lyttelton Arts Factory. Christchurch is just a 20-minute drive from the Lyttelton cruise port. Visit Christchurch and stroll through beautifully manicured Hagley Park or see Maori artefacts at the Canterbury Museum.
If you're looking to capture beautiful views on foot, Lyttelton is the place to be. You'll find the hiking trails of the Pony Point Reserve along the coast, while you can trek the Urumau Loop to venture up Mount Pleasant. Catch glimpses of paradise on a hike down the Whakaraupo Loop in historic Bridle Path or take the Christchurch Gondola for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
(Arrives at 09:00 and departs at 19:00)
Wellington, New Zealand's capital, sits at the southern tip of the North Island, roughly the middle of the country. According to Maori legend, New Zealand's two main islands are associated with the god Maui; the South Island is his canoe and the North Island is the fish he caught. Wellington sits in that metaphorical fish's mouth.
Wellington is New Zealand's second-largest city, following Auckland. Despite its smaller size, Wellington has an abundance of cultural attractions including the National Library, Archives New Zealand, theatres and excellent museums. The city is also home to the country's film industry and is nicknamed Wellywood.
Te Papa Tongarewa is New Zealand's national museum, with free admission. Its full name means "container of treasures" in Maori, and the museum has six floors of cultural and historic pieces with several interactive exhibits.
Wellington is New Zealand's craft beer capital, so have a pint if you can tear yourself away from the country's fantastic selection of wines. Wellington has its very own wine country, just an hour's drive or a picturesque train trip south from the bustling central city. Wairarapa is a charming rural wine area renowned for its world-class pinot noir and warm hospitality.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
(Arrives at 07:00 and departs at 17:00)
Picton, on the northeast corner of New Zealand's South Island, provides access to the beautiful Marlborough Sounds and to New Zealand's most famous wine region, Marlborough, home to the world's best sauvignon blanc.
Known as the sunniest place in the country, this small town of about 3000 people is named for Sir Thomas Picton, who fought and died at the Battle of Waterloo. The pretty harbour town has several cafes and shops, plus a market when cruise ships are in port. The area is home to five different types of dolphins, orcas and rare birds.
You are well advised to drink the local wine in Marlborough during your cruise to Picton. Marlborough's sauvignon blancs are lush, herbaceous and often add a touch of grapefruit or lime zing to the palate. It's perfectly palatable on its own, and pairs very well with the area's oysters, clams, king salmon and green-lipped mussels.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Take your time to orientate yourself with the multitude of entertainment options available on the incredible ‘Ovation of the Seas’. Check out the Royal Esplanade with a wonderful selection of restaurants, cafés and bars complete with the English-style pub, Amber & Oak, and Sorrento's pizza bar for late night snacks.
Wander through the many onboard boutiques and shops to choose from beautiful jewellery, souvenirs and other accessories.
How about dinner and a show? Book a table with world-class cuisine, and extraordinary personal service in the four complimentary main dining rooms or (for an additional cost) choose from one of the amazing specialty restaurants, including Chops Grille, Wonderland or Jamie's Italian, then head off to a Broadway show in the main theatre.
Feel like something a little more casual? Grab a table at the Solarium Bistro, Izumi Japanese or there is always the option to enjoy the 'all you can eat' buffet at the Windjammer Marketplace.
Take a dip in the various pools, spas and whirlpools or book yourself a session in the onboard spa Vitality, with a broad choice of relaxing and therapeutic massages and pampering spa treatments.
Be sure to stop by the most talked-about bar on the ship and unofficially dubbed the "robot bar", this is where drinks are shaken and served by the pair of Makr Shakr robotic bartenders.
You will be spoiled for choice aboard Royal Caribbean’s ‘Ovation of the Seas’.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Take your time to orientate yourself with the multitude of entertainment options available on the incredible ‘Ovation of the Seas’. Check out the Royal Esplanade with a wonderful selection of restaurants, cafés and bars complete with the English-style pub, Amber & Oak, and Sorrento's pizza bar for late night snacks.
Wander through the many onboard boutiques and shops to choose from beautiful jewellery, souvenirs and other accessories.
How about dinner and a show? Book a table with world-class cuisine, and extraordinary personal service in the four complimentary main dining rooms or (for an additional cost) choose from one of the amazing specialty restaurants, including Chops Grille, Wonderland or Jamie's Italian, then head off to a Broadway show in the main theatre.
Feel like something a little more casual? Grab a table at the Solarium Bistro, Izumi Japanese or there is always the option to enjoy the 'all you can eat' buffet at the Windjammer Marketplace.
Take a dip in the various pools, spas and whirlpools or book yourself a session in the onboard spa Vitality, with a broad choice of relaxing and therapeutic massages and pampering spa treatments.
Be sure to stop by the most talked-about bar on the ship and unofficially dubbed the "robot bar", this is where drinks are shaken and served by the pair of Makr Shakr robotic bartenders.
You will be spoiled for choice aboard Royal Caribbean’s ‘Ovation of the Seas’.
Overnight: Royal Caribbean ‘Ovation of the Seas’
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Arrives at 06:30
This morning, the cruise ship sails into the iconic Sydney Harbour. After the final breakfast onboard, complete your disembarkation and bid a fond farewell to your home for the past 10 nights, 'Ovation of the Seas'.
Meals included: Breakfast
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