Norwegian Cruise Line Oceania: 12 nights from Sydney with Norwegian Spirit
Mar 5, 2026

Eden

Burnie

Melbourne

Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia, is a city that seduces visitors with its unique mix of history, art, cafes and green spaces. Known for its labyrinthine streets, rich in street art, and for the vibrant atmosphere that is breathed in every corner, Melbourne is an unmissable stop for those who want to discover Australia beyond clichés. Cruises to Melbourne offer a different perspective on this dynamic metropolis, allowing you to appreciate its urban skyline by sailing along the Yarra River.

The beating heart of Melbourne is its historic center, where modernity and tradition meet. Federation Square, with its avant-garde buildings, is the meeting point par excellence, a stage for cultural events and art exhibitions. Not far away, the Royal Botanical Gardens invite you to a relaxing walk among native and exotic plant species. The city is also famous for its markets, such as the Queen Victoria Market, where you can find local products, handicrafts and street food that tell the flavors of the world.

Melbourne's cultural scene is rich and varied. Historic theaters, such as the Princess Theatre, offer internationally renowned shows, while the numerous museums, including the Melbourne Museum and the National Gallery of Victoria, house artistic and historical treasures. Sports enthusiasts will find a true paradise in Melbourne, with events ranging from tennis to Australian Football, celebrated in iconic facilities such as the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Taking part in a cruise that stops in Melbourne means immersing yourself in a multisensory experience, where urban effervescence combines with moments of serenity along the banks of the Yarra. Melbourne, with its welcoming character and cosmopolitan soul, promises an unforgettable stay, made of cultural, gastronomic and naturalistic discoveries, in one of the most lively and fascinating cities in Australia.

Milford Sound

Port Chalmers

Christchurch

Picton

Napier

Tauranga

Auckland

Auckland is the biggest city in New Zealand, which is located on the North Island. It got its start in 1840 and was named after George Eden, he was the first Earl of Auckland. Before Europeans showed up, the area was home to the Māori, New Zealand’s indigenous people. Key historical spots like Mount Eden and Maungakiekie are still super important to the Māori. The Māori have a bunch of myths and legends about Auckland. One such myth tells of a giant lizard, Taniwha, who supposedly lives in the Hauraki Gulf waters.

These tales are passed down through the generations and are a vital part of the local culture. Back in the 19th century, Auckland was a major port and trading center, which helped it grow fast. In 1865, the capital of New Zealand was moved to Wellington, but Auckland kept booming thanks to its strategic location and industrial potential. It’s called the "City of Sails'' because there are so many yachts in the Hauraki Gulf. Auckland has a bunch of museums and art galleries, like the Auckland Museum and the Auckland Art Gallery.

The city’s surrounded by gorgeous beaches, volcanic hills and dense forests. There are also several nature reserves and national parks nearby. Auckland’s cuisine is super diverse, reflecting its multicultural vibe. You’ll find restaurants serving Asian, European, Polynesian and Māori dishes. One of New Zealand’s national dishes is hangi, it’s a traditional Māori meal cooked in an earth oven. Meat and veggies are cooked in underground pits with hot stones, giving them a unique smoky flavor. Auckland is a major cruise hub for cruise tourism in the Pacific. The Port of Auckland sees a bunch of cruise ships heading out to the Pacific Islands, New Zealand’s coast and Australia. Popular cruise destinations include Vanuatu, Fiji and New Caledonia.

Cruises from Auckland offer not only luxury and relaxation on board but also a chance to see awesome landscapes and get a taste of New Zealand’s culture. Auckland is a city with a rich history, cultural diversity and stunning natural beauty, attracting tourists from all over the world with its cuisine, attractions and cruise opportunities.