Australia and New Zealand are both referred to as Down Under, but are they really all that similar? When it comes to landscapes, the two countries couldn’t be more different. Although they are both islands, New Zealand boasts rolling hills and mountain peaks, while Australia is relatively flat. The coasts are also quite different in appearance, with New Zealand’s south island full of fjords and inlets. Most of the Australian coast is made up of long beaches that extend for miles.

Australians and New Zealanders might also seem alike, on the surface. Both accents are fairly similar to the untrained ear and both drive their cars on the left as opposed to the right. But make the mistake of calling a Kiwi an Aussie or vice versa and you’re likely to get an earful. The two countries share a playful rivalry.

Planning

Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge

Remember that a visa is required for all North American visitors to both New Zealand and Australia. However, not to worry. The visa process for both New Zealand and Australia is simple and it costs a mere $35, lasting for a full year. You don’t even need a photo to apply.

Keep in mind while planning your cruise that the seasons will be reversed when you’re Down Under. Summer lasts from November to approximately February in most areas of both countries. Winter, on the other hand, is in what would normally be the North American summer months. So a cruise in Australia or New Zealand can provide a nice break from the winter blahs.

You might also decide to go in the off-season, which can also be lovely. As most areas (save the south of New Zealand, which offers excellent skiing in the mountains) don’t get all that cold. During the low season, prices are cheaper and you won’t have to deal with crowds. However, if you’re going to New Zealand, you’re likely to get a lot of rain during your trip as most parts of the island are fairly rainy in winter.

Itinerary

The Twelve Apostles, Australia

There are three types of cruise ships that sail the Australian and New Zealand regions. For a reasonable price, you can get on a Holland America or Princess ship during the peak tourist season. These itineraries generally hit the most popular port destinations, beginning in Auckland and sailing to Sydney. The ports of call usually include major cities in New Zealand, such as Christchurch and Dunedin. In Australia, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney are favorite destinations for cruise-goers. Some cruises also incorporate a trip to Tasmania.

Some smaller cruise ship lines also operate in the Oceania region. These include Clipper Cruise Lines, which offers trips tailored a particular niche, such as wildlife viewing or hiking. Orion Expeditions is another company that offers smaller cruise trips.

The final type of itinerary is on the upper class, luxury cruise ships. Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, and Seabourn are three lines that also tailor their itineraries for the smaller ports of call and feature fine dining and luxury accommodations.

Twelve Apostles Australia

Shore Excursions

Cape Farewell, New Zealand

On your cruise, you’ll have an opportunity to get off in some of the most interesting cities in the world. If you want unbeatable dining off the boat or if you want to experience wildlife that you won’t find in North America, Australia is the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you want stunning island vistas, glaciers, fjords, and greenery, New Zealand is the place to go. Here are some of the most popular ports of call in both countries:

Sydney, Australia: There are a number of major tourist attractions in Sydney, from the famous Opera House to the renowned Harbor Bridge. The harbor atmosphere offers excellent dining and shopping and visitors can get around on foot, taxi, bus, ferry, hydrofoil, rail, or water taxi.

Tasmania: There are two main port stops in Tasmania. The first is Hobart, which is, besides Sydney, the oldest city in Australia. The second stop is Burnie, where wineries and rolling countryside stun visitors.

Wellington: On New Zealand’s North Island, Wellington offers visitors a vibrant music and dining scene set on hilly streets. It’s the center of the country’s two islands and features the amazing Te Papa museum of Maori heritage.