Cruise to Bay of Islands

Aerial shot of harbour with large cruise ship surrounded by smaller boats

New Zealand Cruises: Your guide to cruising the Bay of Islands

  • Aerial shot of clear water up against rock face
  • Dolphin jumping out of water
  • Mountainous range with lake in the distance

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  • A travel promotional banner featuring a smiling family of four playing in a swimming pool. A woman in a blue swimsuit carries a young girl wearing a pink life jacket on her back, while a man carries a toddler in a blue life jacket on his shoulders. Both adults are smiling up at the children. Text below reads: "8-Night Queensland Family Cruise – $400* Onboard Credit – From $3,235* per family of 4. Earn from 6,470 points*." Fine print states: "T&Cs apply. Price is based on 2 adults & 2 children aged 2–11 year
  • A travel promotional banner featuring a woman in a red dress and straw hat walking along a white-washed stone path overlooking the iconic blue-domed buildings and cliffside scenery of Santorini, Greece. Text reads: "7-Night Luxury Greece & Turkey Cruise – Save up to $2,750* – From $8,095* per person. Earn from 32,380 points*." Fine print states: "T&Cs apply. Price is per person, based on twin share."
  • A travel promotional banner featuring an aerial view of a large cruise ship sailing through a dramatic fjord with steep, bush-covered mountains rising on either side under a blue sky, likely Milford Sound in New Zealand. Text reads: "15-Night New Zealand Cruise – Save up to $1,100* – From $2,499* per person. Earn from 9,996 points*." Fine print states: "T&Cs apply. Price is per person, based on twin share."
  • A travel promotional banner featuring a couple relaxing on a wicker daybed with teal cushions on a cruise ship deck, with the ocean and blue sky visible behind them. The man holds an orange drink and the woman holds a cocktail with mint, both smiling and laughing. Text reads: "7-Night Carnival South Pacific Cruise – Bonus $400* Onboard Credit – From $1,099* per person. Earn from 4,396 points*." Fine print states: "T&Cs apply. Price is per person, based on twin share."
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  • Luxury Emerald yacht cruise sale | exclusive save up to $6,250* | *T&Cs apply | Emerald cruise yacht next to a coastal town
  • Brand New Adventures from Australia 2027-28 | Royal Beach Club Lelepa | Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship next to Lelepa Island
  • Reward store deals. Stays from 15,000 points. Flights from 67,200 points. Cruises from 103,718 points
  • 15 night fiji and vanuatu fly stay and cruise

Frequently asked questions

We hope you’re got a few days up your sleeve! Spend your time in Bay of Islands exploring the stunning scenery of over 140 subtropical islands, visiting historic sites, and enjoying water activities like dolphin watching and kayaking. 


Yes, cruises stopping in Bay of Islands are great for families, offering activities and sights that appeal to all ages.


Yes, of course! There are options for different budgets, including more economical sightseeing cruises.


The summer months, from December to March, offer the best weather for cruising and outdoor activities. This also happens to be the best time to see pods of orcas cruising past your boat.


Some cruises may cater more to adults, offering a more relaxed and quiet experience. Chat with your Flight Centre cruising expert for more details.


Cruise durations vary, and can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the itinerary and destinations included.


A range of vessels stop in Bay of Islands' port, from medium to larger cruise liners.  Chat with your Flight Centre cruise expert to find the right ship for you.


Yes, check out itineraries that focus on wildlife and nature, cultural heritage tours, and adventure activities like diving, snorkeling and hiking.


Yes, last-minute bookings are often possible. However, if you’ve got your heart set on a particular itinerary or ship, we recommend booking in advance to avoid missing out.


Unique experiences include up-close encounters with marine life, visiting historical landmarks, and enjoying the tranquil natural beauty of the bay.