New Zealand Christmas Cruise Escape
Dive headfirst into adventure on a 9-night cruise to Australia and New Zealand. Depart from Sydney, Australia on Anthem of the Seas for your epic Down Under journey. Gaze in awe and wonder at the region’s captivating natural beauty and explore the great outdoors before heading back to your ship.
Anthem of the Seas isn’t the same old song. It’s a thrill ride that packs in cutting edge experiences like North Star, which gives you 360-degree views from 300 feet above sea level, and flavor firsts like creative fare at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Plus showstoppers like We Will Rock You.
19 December 2026 departure
- Inside from $2,399 pp twin share / from $4,484 sole use*
- Outside from $2,699 pp twin share / from $5,243 sole use*
- Balcony from $2,899 pp twin share / from $5,483 sole use*
- Suite from $5,849 pp twin share / from $11,524 sole use*
* Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Sydney, Australia
Depart from Circular Quay, home to the Opera House, Art Gallery of NSW and historic George Street district.
Day 2 – At Sea
Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck.
Day 3 – At Sea
Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck.
Day 4 – Bay of Islands, New Zealand
Sail through the Hole in the Rock, spot bottlenose dolphins, or visit Russell, New Zealand’s first capital city.
Day 5 – Auckland, New Zealand
Explore downtown cafes, stroll Viaduct Basin’s waterfront, or visit Auckland Museum for harbor views.
Day 6 – Tauranga, New Zealand
Visit Hobbiton film set, explore McLaren Falls Park, or surf at Mount Maunganui beach.
Day 7 – At Sea
Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck.
Day 8 – At Sea
Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck.
Day 9 – At Sea
Lounge by the pool, be spoiled at the spa, dine at onboard restaurants or explore the thrills on each deck.
Day 10 – Sydney, Australia
Arrive back in Sydney; consider a day trip to the Blue Mountains with its forests, cliffs and Three Sisters rock formation.
* Please note that cruise itineraries are subject to change at any time by the cruise company and are not guaranteed
Highlights
- Anthem of the Seas features innovative dining venues from Jamie’s Italian to robotic bartenders at Bionic Bar
- Ideal for families and couples seeking a festive holiday cruise departing just before Christmas
- All main dining room meals, entertainment and pool facilities included in the fare
Dive headfirst into adventure on a 9-night cruise to Australia and New Zealand. Depart from Sydney, Australia on Anthem of the Seas for your epic Down Under journey. Gaze in awe and wonder at the region’s captivating natural beauty and explore the great outdoors before heading back to your ship.
Anthem of the Seas isn’t the same old song. It’s a thrill ride that packs in cutting edge experiences like North Star, which gives you 360-degree views from 300 feet above sea level, and flavor firsts like creative fare at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine. Plus showstoppers like We Will Rock You.
Inclusions
- Main Dining Room meals and Windjammer buffet
- Complimentary venues including Café Promenade, Sorrento’s Pizza and Dog House
- Entertainment including live shows and Two70 multimedia experiences
- Pool facilities and fitness center access
- Taxes and fees
Exclusions
- Specialty dining venues,
- Alcoholic beverages,
- Wi-Fi packages,
- Spa services and shore excursions are available at additional cost.
- Travel insurance
- Air fares
FAQs
Anthem of the Seas offers staterooms ranging from cosy Interior cabins (101 to 285 sq. ft.) to spacious Suites (267 to 795 sq. ft.). Ocean View staterooms feature in-room windows with endless ocean views (182 to 302 sq. ft.), while Balcony cabins offer private outdoor space with stunning views (119-298 sq. ft.). Suite guests enjoy exclusive access to Coastal Kitchen, Suite Lounge and Crown Lounge with complimentary continental breakfast and evening drinks.
Which ship will I be sailing on?
You will be sailing aboard Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas, featuring a range of dining options, entertainment, pools, activities and onboard attractions.
How long is the cruise?
The cruise is 9 nights, departing Sydney on 19 December 2026 and returning to Sydney.
Where does the cruise depart from?
The cruise departs from Sydney, Australia.
How many days will the ship spend at sea?
There are five days at sea, providing plenty of time to relax, enjoy the ship’s facilities and take part in onboard activities.
What can I do in the Bay of Islands?
You can enjoy a scenic cruise through the Hole in the Rock, look out for dolphins, visit historic Russell or explore the beautiful coastal scenery.
What are some highlights of Auckland?
Explore Auckland’s waterfront, enjoy its cafés and restaurants, visit the Auckland Museum or admire the city’s harbour and sailing culture.
What can I see and do in Tauranga?
Highlights include visiting the famous Hobbiton Movie Set, exploring McLaren Falls Park or enjoying the beaches around Mount Maunganui.
Provided by: Royal Caribbean InternationalFine Print
Prices include taxes and fees. Specific ports of call are subject to change due to weather, safety or operational considerations. Ship departs promptly at 5:00 pm on embarkation day; plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early.
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