Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours in New Zealand

Take in the sights of Queen Charlotte Sound and visit Ship Cove on a morning boat tour from Picton. The 3.5-hour journey follows a network of waterways as your captain narrates the highlights of the Marlborough Sounds. During free time while anchored at Ship Cove, see Maori wood carvings and a Captain Cook memorial, and explore the sheltered beach. Be on the lookout for marine life and other natural features of this breathtaking region while you sip complimentary tea and coffee on board.

Board a Milford Sound cruise and ride a vintage steamship across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm on this Queenstown Super Saver. You'll take each tour on two separate days, soaking up the breathtaking alpine landscapes of the South Island. First, spot marine life as your experienced skipper navigates the serene waters of the UNESCO-listed Fiordland. The next day, enjoy typical New Zealand hospitality at a rural farm with wool spinning, sheep sheering and either morning or afternoon tea.

Sail Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, and get up close to the Māori Rock Carvings on this 2.5-hour sailing tour. Aboard Fearless, a sleek ketch boat, you'll set sail on the impossibly blue Lake Taupo at the heart of the North Island. Choose to rig and hoist the mainsail with the crew, or sit back and let the views wash over you as you sail to the secluded spot where Māori figures have been etched into the rock face. This sailing trip is limited to just 14 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Travel along the spectacular Milford Road on a full-day Milford Sound tour from Te Anau. Have the chance to see native wildlife like the endangered kea (an alpine parrot), seals, dolphins, and the Fiordland crested penguin. Visit Gunns Camp, take short walks to beautiful sights including the Chasm and Marian Cascade, and take a 2-hour sightseeing cruise on the Milford Sound. Includes entrance fees, boat cruise with live commentary, morning tea, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Cruise Queen Charlotte Sound to Motuara Island and Ship Cove on a 4.5-hour boat tour from Picton. Search for birdlife and marine mammals, such as Hector's dolphins and bottlenose dolphins, as your captain details the region's natural and cultural history. Spend time exploring Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary, home to endangered native birds including the South Island saddleback, king shag, little blue penguin and kiwi. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee on board, with free time ashore in Ship Cove.

Discover Rotorua on a 1.5-hour duck tour. This sightseeing adventure takes you aboard a World War II amphibious vehicle "” able to travel on land and water. Start with a city tour past Government Gardens, the Blue Baths and more before splashing down into Lake Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Lake Okareka. Enjoy family fun along the way with a provided duck caller, and listen to live commentary about Rotorua's history and local landmarks.

Relax on a romantic 30-minute punt (flat-bottomed boat) ride along the Avon River in Christchurch. Float past willows lining the riverbanks as a punter, dressed in traditional costume, uses a long pole to propel you and your companions across the water while providing informative commentary. You'll row past the city center and Christchurch Botanic Gardens, which you can opt to tour by electric shuttle. Other upgrades include a Christchurch Gondola ride to the Crater Rim and/or a Christchurch Tram hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour of downtown.

Ride a catamaran to Paterson Inlet and take a 45-minute guided walk at Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary. Your cruise showcases hidden coves and unspoiled beaches with informative commentary. Keep an eye out for fur seals and penguins, then learn about native birdlife and plants that flourish in the predator-free environment of Ulva Island. This 2.5-hour tour departs Stewart Island in the afternoon, with the option to include a boxed lunch on board. Numbers are limited for a small-group experience.