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18 Feb 2013
New Zealand Cruise
Sun Princess - 14 nights ex Brisbane, Australia
Past Sailing
All aboard the Sun Princess over 14 relaxing nights aboard the New Zealand Cruise exploring New Zealand. This cruise departs from Brisbane and visits 8 ports in 2 countries before returning to Brisbane. This 4.5 star voyage from Princess Cruises has forward departures, but is unfortunately sold out for this departure.
BONUS up to $75 onboard cabin credit for this cruise!
| Day | Date | Port of call | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mon 18 Feb 2013 | Brisbane, Australia | 4.00pm | |
 Portside Wharf Cruise Terminal at Hamilton, up-river and 6 km from the CBD, is accessed by ships that clear the twin Gateway Bridges. Pacific Dawn sails year-round from here to the South Pacific, Great Barrier Reef, New Zealand, and PNG, and in 2014 she will be joined by Pacific Jewel and Sea Princess. Larger vessels berth at the Port of Brisbane where the river enters Moreton Bay, 20 km from the CBD. In early 2014 Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, P&O’s Aurora, and Dawn Princess depart from here on World Cruises to the UK, with sectors to Asia, the Middle East, Mediterranean and South Africa. The semi-tropical city of Brisbane, situated on the Brisbane River, is the capital of the Sunshine State.
A day’s trip away are the Sunshine and Gold Coasts with their beautiful hinterlands, and the famous Australia Zoo. In the CBD take a free bus around past heritage landmarks, such as the historic Windmill and the Old Commissariat Store, some built by convicts in 1828. Do visit the newly-restored City Hall. Across the river from the CBD is South Bank, with its sandy beach and eateries, Gallery of Modern Art, Museum & Science Centre, Piazza and ferry terminal. Take a CityCat upstream to view river-side parklands, the University of Queensland, and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (a world top-ten zoo). Feed and handle the animals, home to koalas, kangaroos, Australian birds, Tasmanian devils, wombats, dingoes and reptiles. Be photographed cuddling a koala or a python. Climb the Story Bridge at dusk, it’s fantastic. Take a bus to Mount Coot-tha and take in a 300 degree view of the entire city, while visiting the interesting cafes. The Kangaroo Point Cliffs are a great vantage point to see the Brisbane River and city buildings, while those wanting ‘action’ can go rock climbing and abseiling with the Riverlife Adventure Centre. Meet with the local aboriginal tribe, Mirrabooka, and share in rich Aboriginal culture presented by the Yuggera Aboriginal Dancers in the natural bushland of Kangaroo Point. more/less... |
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| 2 | Tue 19 Feb 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 3 | Wed 20 Feb 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 4 | Thu 21 Feb 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 5 | Fri 22 Feb 2013 | Auckland, New Zealand | 7.00am | 6.00pm |
 Auckland (Akarana), a city on the North Island, is New Zealand's biggest city and has the largest Polynesian population of any city in the world. Situated on a narrow isthmus, it is one of the few cities in the world to have harbours on two separate bodies of water, the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
Wherever you stay in Auckland, you're never far from breathtaking scenery, beautiful beaches, invigorating walks, outstanding food - including the 'Pacific Rim' cuisine that has perfected the fusing of Pacific and Asian flavours - and award-winning wine. Enjoy great shopping at the home of top fashion designers in the city's heart, or visit the markets that are a magnet for bargain hunters! Places to visit include the Museum, Zoo, and the Botanic Gardens. Daily departures from Viaduct Harbour of the Whale and Dolphin Safari offer a guaranteed viewing of dolphins or whales as well as other captivating animals on every trip. If more adventurous go hot air ballooning, take an hour and a half Auckland Bridge Climb, or participate in bungy jumping that operates daily and is available to anyone aged 10 years or over. Also on offer are Canyoning Adventures at various levels of difficulty with no experience required. With tours catering for all kinds of visitors, you will thoroughly enjoy your visit to “The City of Sails'! more/less... |
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| 6 | Sat 23 Feb 2013 | Rotorua (Tauranga), New Zealand | 6.00am | 5.00pm |
 Rotorua (Tauranga) is a centre of tourism and a place of extraordinary natural beauty. It is a smallish city on the shores of a lake of the same name, in the crater of an ancient volcano in the Bay of Plenty region of the North Island of New Zealand. The entire area is thermally active, and the smell of sulphur, a 'rotten eggs'' smell that is never far, results in the nicknames 'Sulphur City' and 'Rottenrua'!
The surrounding geothermal wonderland, however, soon causes one to get used to the odour. View active geysers, bubbling mud pools of spectacular colours, experience spa rejuvenation with a mud spa therapy treatment, soak in geothermal waters, and get a taste of 'how life should be'! Take a tour or hire a car and experience Maori culture by visiting places such as Mitai Maori Village, home of the sacred spring and glow worms, or the Living Thermal Village, to interact with locals as they produce craft products and enjoy their shows and hangi meals. It is an area packed with pioneering history. Alternatively, simply enjoy the sixteen lakes, fantastic trout fishing, boating or one of the myriads of walking tracks. Truly, Rotura delivers it all! more/less... |
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| 7 | Sun 24 Feb 2013 | Napier, New Zealand | 12.00pm | 7.00pm |
 Napier is a port city in Hawkes Bay on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand. It is known as the 'Art Deco' capital of the world because following the earthquake which almost levelled the city in 1931, the rapid rebuilding was strongly influenced by Art Deco architecture that was at its height of popularity. The building style of clean simple lines and base relief decoration suited the needs of the city and is maintained by the Art Deco Trust.
With its Mediterranean climate and over 2300 sunshine hours per year, Napier is famous for the wide variety of water sports including water skiing, windsurfing, kayaking, and parasailing – also its beautiful public gardens, historic wineries, wonderful scenery. Visit Marineland, the National Aquarium of New Zealand, and the Kiwi House where you can actually touch a kiwi, the country's national emblem! Other outstanding places of interest include the Arataki Honey Visitor Centre (with its interactive environment for children). Shop at the Specialty Store and at Classic Sheepskins, explore the Museum and Art Gallery, take a guided art Deco walk, or tour the Mission Estate Winery. You will thoroughly enjoy your visit to one of New Zealand's best kept secrets! more/less... |
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| 8 | Mon 25 Feb 2013 | Wellington, New Zealand | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 Wellington, New Zealand's capital city, is situated on the SW tip of the North Island, and is set on the edge of a stunning harbour surrounded by rolling hills. As the political centre it houses Parliamentary buildings, as well as the bulk of foreign diplomatic missions. However, it is also renowned for its cafe-culture, as there are more cafes per capita than in New York City.
Downtown Wellington on Lambton Quay, home to the city's strong yachting fraternity, is popular with shoppers. Don't miss a trip on the Cable Car that takes you from Lambton Quay to Kelburn, the Botanic Gardens and superb harbour views. For a different perspective of the city, take a harbour cruise or a ferry trip to Eastbourne where there are craft shops, galleries and cafes. Hire a car and drive just 15-30 minutes and discover Lower Hutt with its fantastic recreation opportunities and leading-edge art museum, Upper Hutt and its pristine Hutt River with stunning riverside trails, and Porirua to enjoy a range of water sports and visit the award-winning Pataka Museum. A little further away is Wellington's wine region where you can sample culinary delights, and visit the boutique wine-village of Martinborough as well as the antique and crafts stores of Greytown. more/less... |
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| 9 | Tue 26 Feb 2013 | Christchurch, New Zealand | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 Christchurch, in the Province of Canterbury, is the largest city of the South Island of New Zealand. It is located mid-way down the island's east coast just north of Banks Peninsula, on the edge of the Canterbury Plains. It is a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting festivals, theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping and award-winning attractions.
Christchurch was a planned settlement founded by English colonialists, and this rich English history is still apparent in the city's atmosphere. Use an all-day pass and loop the inner city on the beautifully restored historic tramway. There is no limit to the stops, and the impressive Neo-Gothic architectural buildings such as the Canterbury Museum, Christ's College School, and the Arts Centre can be explored at leisure. With much of the city being flat and only a few metres above sea level, climb up to the spire of the Christchurch Cathedral, examine the cathedral bells and enjoy a spectacular bird's-eye view of the city and surrounds. Stroll down the New Brighton Pier, enjoy the high standard cuisine of the restaurants and cafes, visit 'down-town' centred on Cathedral Square, enjoy the Botanic Gardens, hire a car and experience neighbouring towns such as Sumner, but above all else be sure to take a leisurely journey down the Avon River in a punt! more/less... |
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| 10 | Wed 27 Feb 2013 | Dunedin, New Zealand | 8.00am | 6.00pm |
 Dunedin is the principal city of the Otago Region of New Zealand. It was founded in 1848 by Scottish migrants, and today the city still contains many Scottish relics, including a statue of the Scottish Bard Robbie Burns. Dunedin is a vibrant city surrounded by a giant outdoor playground.
Dunedin, or the Quirky Capital – named after its quirky annual events – is packed with historic architecture, cafes, bars, art galleries and New Zealand designer fashion. A city tour ending at The Otago Settlers Museum will uncover the tales of those who settled in Dunedin from early Maori, Scottish pioneers and Chinese gold miners. Definitely do not leave without taking note of Baldwin Street, officially named the world’s steepest street by the Guinness Book of Records! Just thirty minutes by car, or a tour (many cycle) from the CBD, the Otago Peninsula is a must see, as it is concentrated with unique New Zealand wildlife. Here you will see yellow eyed penguins, the only mainland albatross breeding colony, New Zealand fur seals, sea lions and much more. Garden lovers will enjoy a visit to Lanarch Castle, with its gardens of international significance (and very Scottish), Rhododendron Dell and the Botanic Gardens. more/less... |
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| 11 | Thu 28 Feb 2013 | Fjordland Nat Park, New Zealand | 8.00am | 5.00pm |
 Fjordland National Park occupies the SW corner of the south island of New Zealand, and is the largest of 14 national parks as well as a major part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site. It is a region of waterfalls and misty virgin forests, snow-clad mountains and towering granite peaks, crystal clear lakes, rivers and remote fjords. His, together with two off-shore ice carved islands, makes it one of the most dramatic and beautiful places in New Zealand.
Milford Sound is truly breathtaking, so much so that it often attracts the title of The Eighth Natural Wonder of the World. Fjordland is one of the wettest places in the world, and is as beautiful when raining as it is with clear skies, as waterfalls, too many to count, spring up anywhere! Cruise ships going into Milford Sound can take you right underneath massive waterfalls, and the whole 16 km to the end of the sound. Doubtful Sound is the second longest in Fjordland at 40 km long. On a cruise you will experience more shades of lush green than you knew existed, while you drift over 420 m deep water. In both Milford and Doubtful Sounds you will experience a host of wildlife, such as seals and crested penguins gathering on the shores, and sometimes bottle-nosed dolphins can be sighted playfully swimming alongside the boat. Put this together with trips to the centrepiece town of Te Anu and the unique glow worm caves and your visit will be absolutely unforgettable! more/less... |
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| 12 | Fri 1 Mar 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 13 | Sat 2 Mar 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 14 | Sun 3 Mar 2013 | At Sea | ||
| 15 | Mon 4 Mar 2013 | Brisbane, Australia | 7.00am | |
| Portside Wharf Cruise Terminal at Hamilton, up-river and 6 km from the CBD, is accessed by ships that clear the twin Gateway Bridges. Pacific Dawn sails year-round from here to the South Pacific, Great Barrier Reef, New Zealand, and PNG, and in 2014 she will be joined by Pacific Jewel and Sea Princess. Larger vessels berth at the Port of Brisbane where the river enters Moreton Bay, 20 km from the CBD. In early 2014 Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria, P&O’s Aurora, and Dawn Princess depart from here on World Cruises to the UK, with sectors to Asia, the Middle East, Mediterranean and South Africa. The semi-tropical city of Brisbane, situated on the Brisbane River, is the capital of the Sunshine State.
A day’s trip away are the Sunshine and Gold Coasts with their beautiful hinterlands, and the famous Australia Zoo. In the CBD take a free bus around past heritage landmarks, such as the historic Windmill and the Old Commissariat Store, some built by convicts in 1828. Do visit the newly-restored City Hall. Across the river from the CBD is South Bank, with its sandy beach and eateries, Gallery of Modern Art, Museum & Science Centre, Piazza and ferry terminal. Take a CityCat upstream to view river-side parklands, the University of Queensland, and Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (a world top-ten zoo). Feed and handle the animals, home to koalas, kangaroos, Australian birds, Tasmanian devils, wombats, dingoes and reptiles. Be photographed cuddling a koala or a python. Climb the Story Bridge at dusk, it’s fantastic. Take a bus to Mount Coot-tha and take in a 300 degree view of the entire city, while visiting the interesting cafes. The Kangaroo Point Cliffs are a great vantage point to see the Brisbane River and city buildings, while those wanting ‘action’ can go rock climbing and abseiling with the Riverlife Adventure Centre. Meet with the local aboriginal tribe, Mirrabooka, and share in rich Aboriginal culture presented by the Yuggera Aboriginal Dancers in the natural bushland of Kangaroo Point. more/less... |
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Until July 2013 Sun Princess is based in Yokohama, Japan. Cruise the islands Japan and the Inland Sea of Japan, and touch on Korea, choosing from and impressive selection of on-shore day tours. In August/September 2013 sail between Singapore and Freemantle. Then until March 2014 Sun Princess circumnavigates New Zealand, out of Sydney and Auckland. Other itineraries head for the South Pacific islands of New Caledonia, Fiji and Vanuatu. Princess Cruises organises on-shore tours that can be booked before sailing or during the cruise. For some voyages pre- and post-cruises tours are available to extend your stay in major ports.
Accommodation
There are six main categories of staterooms - Suites with balcony, Mini-Suites with balcony, Balcony, Oceanview Deluxe, Oceanview, and Interior – and 28 grades, which give a broad choice according to guests’ needs of space and price. All cabins have pleasing décor and reasonable storage space, satellite TV, refrigerator, and 24-hour room service. Fresh fruit (by request), evening bed turn-down, bathroom lotions, and bathrobes (by request) come with every stateroom. Standard cabins are well-designed and functional. Some cabins accommodate a third and even a fourth person. Generally twin beds can be made up into a queen-size bed. Bedding is top quality. There are no interconnecting or single cabins. There are many wheelchair-accessible cabins, and guests with disabilities are well catered for. An in-cabin dining menu is available 24-hours.
Food and Dining
There are two main dining rooms (no Anytime Dining), and dinner is served in two set seatings in each dining room with the same waitstaff and assigned tables and tablemates. Dress code is smart casual, and on cruises longer than three days dress for a formal night for every week of sailing. Breakfast and lunch are provided in an open seating arrangement. (Of course a continental breakfast can be delivered to your stateroom, and there is a stateroom menu.) The alternative eating venue is Stirling Steakhouse (extra charge, reservations) for really good steak and barbecued chicken. Passengers booked in cabins with balconies can order several special, romantic meals to be served restaurant-style on the verandah - Ultimate Balcony Dining. Order special dietary requests before sailing.
Entertainment
In the evening having two show lounges (both theatre and cabaret style) is a great way to give passengers more entertainment choices. During her 2010 refurbishment additions included a Movies Under the Stars screen in the main pool area for new movie releases, sporting events and concert videos. Adults have their own private sunbathing area, the Sanctuary, at the front of the ship. Add seven bars and lounges, nightclub and dance floors, and the casino, to the list of evening options. Alternatively, just stroll around and shop duty-free, or for a quiet time retire to the Library/Card Room or Internet Café. Weddings are officiated by the Captain.
Welcome to our Roll Call forum for Sun Princess's "New Zealand Cruise" departing 18 Feb 2013. Here you can meet fellow cruisers, swap ideas, plan tours, share with others and make friends before you even leave!
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View the current location for Sun Princess here!
Cruise summary
Cruise: New Zealand Cruise
Duration: 14 nights
Ship: Sun Princess
Star rating: 
Departs: Brisbane
Returns: Brisbane
Ports of call: 8
Forward departures:
What's onboard? ▼
- Defence Force (active and ex-serving) onboard credit program (ADF & NZDF)
- Stateroom
- Piazza-style Atrium
- Shops duty free (4)
- DINING
- Main dining rooms (2)
- Traditional Dining
- Anytime Dining (outside Australia)
- 24-h room service & menu
- Special dietary requests
- Formal dining nights
- Ultimate Balcony Dining
- The Chef’s Table
- Steakhouse & seafood
- Buffet, Pizzeria
- Internet café
- Patisserie, Wine bar
- Ice cream sundae bar
- Drink & coffee packages
- Afternoon tea
- ENTERTAINMENT
- Show lounges (2)
- Lounges, bars, nightclub, disco (7)
- Movies Under the Stars
- Onboard games, parties, tours
- Casino
- ScholarShip@Sea courses
- Library
- Art auctions
- Celebration packages
- ACTIVITIES
- Pools (4)
- Whirlpools (5)
- The Sanctuary adult oasis
- Fitness Centre, jogging track
- The Lotus Spa, beauty salon
- Sports deck & table games
- Golf simulator
- UNDER 18
- Princess Pelicans (3-7 y)
- Shockwaves (8-12 y)
- Remix (13-17 y)
- OTHER
- Weddings (selected itineraries)
- Medical centre
- No tipping, bar service charges ex Australia
- ATM on board
- Internet, phone, Wi-Fi (pay)
- Laundromat
- 220V AC (Australia)
- Mobile phone reception
- Wheelchair access
- Daily newsletter
What's included? ▼
- Accommodation as booked
- Australia: Gratuities for Sun and Dawn Princess departures, and Sea Princess departing and returning to Australia.
- All main meals on-board
- Coffee, tea & milk 24 hrs
- Oplen/anytime dining (not in Australia)
- Traditional/set time & multi-venue dining
- Cocktail or champagne reception
- In-cabin dining at no charge
- Complimentary mini-bar setup (Suites)
- Use of ship facilities - indoor & outdoor
- Entertainment - live music and/or shows, movies
- Activities - organised & individual
- Specialty lectures, workshops, classes & programs
- Bridge director on select cruises
- Kids clubs & teen programs (3-17 yrs most ships)
- Cruise Director & all English speaking staff
- Onboard newsletter
- Port maps and/or guide books
- Destination seminars and/or lectures
- Ship-shore-ship transfers
What's excluded? ▼
- Airfares, accommodation & transfers not specified
- Shore & land excursions and meals not specified
- Alternate specialty dining venues
- Room service menu items (unless specified)
- Casino gaming, bar expenses
- Passport & visa fees
- Insurances of all kinds
- Increases in third party charges or taxes
- Outside Australia: Service charge USD 11.50 (suites USD 12) pp/night all ages. Adjust or remove on board.
- Customary land tour gratuities are welcome
- Outside Australia Service charge: bar and wine 15%
- Items & services of a personal nature
- Medical services, vaccination costs
- Laundry and/or valet charges
- Laundry services (Complimentary for Suites & Elite Capltain's Circle
- Wi-Fi, Internet, satellite/mobile phone & fax charges
- Childcare night services (3-12 yrs, 10pm-1am)
Recent testimonials
"The cruise was wonderful and I have recommended it, and you, to all my friends! I really appreciate the time you took to assist and advise me, and I will have no hesitation in using your services to book my next cruise holiday."
Cheryl W from Perth
"We thoroughly enjoyed our cruise and have no hesitation in using you again and would most certainly recommend your company. So thank you for looking after us, have a great Xmas and a happy new year."
Brian & Margaret from Buderim
"Ultimately it came down to attitude and the service from you was genuinely impressive so I rewarded that with my business. Price is very important but that good old thing called Service is hard to find these days."
William H from Melbourne