How to choose the right cruise

With hundreds of ships and thousands of itineraries, it’s easy to feel adrift when planning your first cruise. But here’s the thing – there’s a cruise for every kind of traveller, from luxe seekers to culture lovers, families to foodies. 

The best way to start? Pick your dream destination. Then, match it with the cruise line that best suits your style of travel. Our cruise specialists help get you started with our cruise cheat sheet.

If you’re after cobblestone streets, quaint villages, and a medley of Mediterranean and Baltic gems, Europe is the one for you. 

• Princess Cruises offers a classic European experience with grand itineraries and all-inclusive comfort. Think Rome, Athens, Dubrovnik – without the fuss.
• Celebrity Cruises adds a touch of sophistication with locally inspired dining and stylish staterooms. The Edge class ships are uber cool and gratuities are included.
• MSC Cruises brings big-ship energy, Italian flair and great value, especially for families. There are a lot of interconnecting family rooms, and a great bonus - gratuities are included.
• Azamara, Windstar, and Ponant are for the curious cruiser – smaller ships that dock in out-of-the-way towns and focus on deep cultural immersion. Perfect, If you prefer more of a yachtie vibe where the destinations are the focus rather than onboard gimmicks.

Asia is a continent of contrasts – ancient temples, neon-lit cities, and islands that feel like time forgot. Oh, and the food, do we really need to mention the incredible array of culinary experiences? Cruises through this continent are as varied as the destinations.

• Princess Cruises (especially their Japan itineraries) are popular with Kiwis for their ease and onboard familiarity. 

• Silversea and Seabourn are perfect if you’re seeking five-star luxury and longer itineraries across multiple countries with all the important things included.

• Celebrity, Oceania and Holland America blend iconic sights with immersive cultural experiences, offering destination-rich itineraries that combine vibrant cities with relaxing beach escapes.

Want to cruise without the long-haul flight? These itineraries let you explore home turf (and just beyond) in a whole new way.

• Royal Caribbean and Carnival are your go-to for family fun, themed cruises, and crowd-pleasing onboard action from Brisbane & Sydney.

• Princess and Holland America offer more classic cruise vibes and are ideal for older couples or multigenerational trips.

• Windstar’s or Paul Gauguin Tahiti sailings are a romantic dream – small ships, turquoise lagoons and barely a footprint on the beach.

• For a touch of luxury, Silversea, Regent and Seabourn offer champagne sunsets, five-star service and a whole lot of pampering

If the words “Alaska cruise” spark something in you – good! This is one of the world’s most epic cruise destinations.

• Holland America and Princess are the big players in Alaska, with deep experience and immersive shore excursions (think dog sledding, glacier hikes & their own Alaskan lodges).

• Cunard brings elegance to North American sailings, with formal nights and a touch of nostalgia.

• Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and MSC offer flexible onboard options and great family offerings, especially around the Caribbean and Mexican Riviera.

Cruising through South America means tango in Buenos Aires, the thunder of Iguazú Falls, and maybe even penguins in Patagonia.

• MSC is great for value-focused travellers, especially on shorter itineraries, Note these are built for the Spanish speaking market so expect a European vive onboard

• Princess blends affordability with comfort on longer trips.

• HX Expeditions are a great value way to experience the deep south and are perfect for those who want to participate in citizen science programmes

• Ponant, Seabourn and Silversea are your luxe picks, venturing to off-grid destinations, and sparing none of the luxuries.

Dreaming of sandy toes and steel drums? The Caribbean has your name on it. But it’s not one-size-fits-all.

• Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSC and Norwegian deliver action-packed cruises with endless entertainment and family fun. PLUS Private Caribbean islands

• Windstar, Emerald Yachts, and Azamara are the boutique picks – small ships that reach off-the-beaten-path islands and spend more time in each port.

Inspired to set sail on a journey like no other? Discover the world from a new perspective, with endless horizons and unforgettable destinations. Connect with our cruise specialists today and start planning your dream voyage!