It looks like New Zealand cruises are finally set to return. After a long and unprecedented period of closed borders, the country is reopening for tourism. This is incredibly welcome news for the cruise industry, as New Zealand cruises have historically been a major source of revenue for multiple cruise lines. Although cruises have been operating locally in New Zealand for some time now, this marks the first time since the early days of the pandemic that tourists from outside of the country will be able to visit.
The news was announced on May 11th by New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern. It was part of an extensive set of changes for the country, and cruise travel was singled out as one of the major shifts. Ardern put it simply, saying that “New Zealand’s international border will reopen to all tourists and visa holders two months earlier than planned on July 31.” She also noted that this change “provides certainty and good preparation time for airlines and cruise ship companies planning a return to New Zealand in the peak spring and summer seasons.”
Although it is still too soon for cruise lines to announce their New Zealand itineraries in light of this news, we expect to see this happening across the industry in the next few weeks. New Zealand has always been a popular cruise destination, and this gives cruise lines plenty of reason to shift their schedules so that their ships are ready to sail from the nation.
Whether you’re an honorary Kiwi or you’ve never been on a cruise to New Zealand before, this news should stir up some wanderlust in you. New Zealand is an excellent spot for a vacation. The country has something for everyone. There are endless opportunities to spot wildlife, gorgeous fjords filled with history, and a unique culture to explore in every port. Another main draw of New Zealand cruises is the fact that you can experience a wide array of different landscapes in one itinerary. Over the course of just a few days, you can enjoy urban landscapes, glaciated mountains, forests, and grasslands. It’s a truly thrilling place, and a cruise vacation is one of the best ways to explore it.
If you’re interested in booking a New Zealand cruise, keep your eyes peeled. Most major cruise lines offer itineraries there, and many will likely be updating their 2022 calendars soon. We can’t wait!
