£3499pp—Australia & New Zealand sail w/tours

Set sail for New Zealand's dreamy mountainous scenery and epic Fiordland. Visit the famous Hobbiton set from "The Lord of the Rings" and luminous glow-worm caves. Then, cross over to Australia for the dramatic Blue Mountains, rushing waterfalls and famed beaches. This package covers flights, hotels, three full-day tours, and full-board meals whilst cruising.

What's included

• Return flights to Auckland and from Sydney, with checked baggage
• All overseas transfers
• Three nights at the 4-star Rydges Auckland (or similar), in a Double/Standard Room
• A full-day Hobbiton Movie Set tour
• A Waitomo Caves, Rotorua and Te Puia tour
• 14-night full-board cruise aboard Noordam, in an Inside Stateroom
• Two nights at the 4-star PARKROYAL Darling Harbour, Sydney (or similar), in a Double/Standard Room
• A full-day Blue Mountains, Scenic World and Parramatta River cruise

Book by midnight on 28 February and receive over £200 in credit to spend on-board.

When
Fly from London or Edinburgh on 18 November, 2025.

You can also depart from Manchester from £3599 per person, or from Birmingham from £3699 per person.

For more information, see our partner's website.

Itinerary
Begin with three nights in Auckland. Your hotel is just around the corner from the Sky Tower. Stroll to the waterfront for a glass of wine, and enjoy sea views at every turn. Then, head over to Waiheke Island's wineries. 

The next morning, you'll visit the famous Hobbiton Movie Set. Explore New Zealand's 'Middle-earth', where "Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" came to life on our screens. Wander the flowery meadows and peaceful streams of the hobbits' home town, The Shire. A magical place where quaint thatched cottages and round doors hide under stunning landscapes.

The following day, this adventurous tour takes you to the Waitomo Caves and Rotorua. Two of new Zealand's top attractions. Explore the glow-worm grotto and marvel at thousands of them in limestone caves. You'll learn about over 130 years of cultural and natural history and discover subterranean stalagmites. Then, visit the Government Gardens and Lake Rotorua in Rotorua. Return transport from Auckland is included.

Then, board Noordam for a 14-night cruise, calling at:

• Tauranga... climb the nearby Mount Maunganui for panoramic views overlooking the beach. Cool off in the surf after your hike, or wander through the laidback beach town and its boutique shops. 
• Napier... discover the city's architectural charm, wine culture, and coastal beauty. Admire beautifully-restored Art Deco buildings, or book a wine-tasting tour (at your own cost) of the wider region—best known for its red blends and chardonnay.
• Picton... a picturesque seaside town at the top of the South Island. Dolphin watching, kayaking, and mountain biking are popular outdoor activities to try.
• Lyttelton... where artists gather alongside port workers in effortlessly cool bars and restaurants. Discover secluded coves, local art galleries, and artisanal treats.
• Timaru… this town is known for its stunning coastline. Caroline Bay is famous for its pristine white sand and sparkling blue waters. The South Canterbury Museum and Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre are well worth visiting. The Timaru Botanic Gardens feature beautiful flower displays and walking trials through a peaceful oasis. There are many cosy coffee shops where you can perch and sample the local coffee.
• Port Chalmers... serves as the main port of the city of Dunedin—where you can see the Scottish heritage in Larnach Castle, sip on a locally brewed beer, and spot the diverse birdlife.
• Hobart... this is your first Australian port—learn of Hobarts history while strolling the sculpture trail. Then, opt to take the ferry (at your own cost) to Bruny Island to go on a bush walk, or to enjoy farm-to-table dining.
• Melbourne... a lush and vibrant city with colourful laneways, hidden bars, historic arcades, artsy cafes, and fashion boutiques to fill your suitcases. 

You'll disembark the ship in Sydney and spend two nights at a central hotel—a short walk from Hyde Park. See iconic landmarks like Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. Head over to the coast, where you'll find the world-famous Bondi Beach. 

On your final full day, you'll get an included day trip with lunch to the Blue Mountains. It's named for the eucalyptus that gives the air a smoky blue cast. Join a local guide on the steepest railway in the world and Skyway cable car. Then, visit Featherdale Wildlife Park or Sydney Zoo to see the resident koalas and kangaroos. Finish with a boat ride down the Parramatta River for soaring views of the Three Sisters.

You'll disembark the tour at Sydney Harbour and catch your flight home the following morning.

Ship details
Noordam is a luxury mid-size cruise ship from Holland America Line, which carries 1972 passengers. It "strikes a balance between classic and contemporary", says Cruise Critic, with onboard entertainment including ballroom dancing, comedy acts, and show-tune performances. Dining options include the main dining room, a casual buffet restaurant, a poolside grill, and a coffee shop. Three themed afternoon teas—Indonesian, Royal Dutch and Cupcake—are served once each sailing.

Other options

• Sail in an Outside Cabin from £4099 per person
• Sail in a Balcony Cabin from £4199 per person
• Sail in a Suite from £4399 per person
• Add the Have it All package for premium drinks, speciality dining, WIFI, shore credit, and gratuities from £60 per person, per day

Transfers & baggage
Transfers are not included but are available on request—enquire on booking. Checked baggage is included.