Top Cruise Operators
Several premium and expedition cruise lines operate routes linking Western Australia with destinations further across the South Pacific, including New Zealand, with stopovers at the Abrolhos Islands. Coral Expeditions is a key operator on this route, known for its small-ship voyages that focus on the Abrolhos Islands and Coral Coast. Silversea also features longer itineraries from Fremantle, with luxury voyages that combine Western Australia’s coastline, remote islands, and onward travel into the broader Australia–New Zealand region. Other companies such as Scenic and specialist travel agencies highlight extended expeditions that combine Abrolhos exploration with cross-Tasman sailings.
Common Itinerary
A cruise from Perth to New Zealand via the Abrolhos Islands often begins in Fremantle, with the first stage dedicated to Western Australia’s Coral Coast. Guests can expect stops at Geraldton and time exploring the Abrolhos Islands, a chain of 122 islands known for coral reefs, seabird colonies, and historic shipwrecks. Voyages then continue north or east, depending on the operator, with routes sometimes including Darwin or Australia’s southern ports before crossing the Tasman Sea. The final stage of the journey includes New Zealand destinations, with itineraries often lasting several weeks and blending island exploration with long stretches of scenic cruising.
Typical Packages and Inclusions
Packages on this route vary by operator but typically combine accommodation, onboard meals, and guided experiences at key stops. Coral Expeditions emphasizes all-inclusive offerings such as daily excursions with naturalist guides, lectures, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat tours. Silversea provides a more luxury-focused experience, with spacious suites, fine dining, and premium services bundled into the fare. Optional add-ons across operators can include extended land tours, scenic flights over the Abrolhos, or specialist excursions such as diving at historic wreck sites. These inclusions make the journey not only a cruise between Perth and New Zealand but also a rich expedition into some of the most remote and ecologically significant waters in the Southern Hemisphere.
References
https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/destinations/australias-west-coast/abrolhos-islands-and-the-coral-coast/
https://www.expeditioncruisespecialists.com/blog/post/abrolhos-eco-2023
https://www.coralexpeditions.com/au/cruises/
https://discover.silversea.com/destinations/australia-new-zealand/visit-western-australias-most-remote-islands/
https://www.peregrinetraveladelaide.com.au/trip/australia/darwin-to-fremantle-20-day-western-australia-expedition-cruise/
https://www.silversea.com/destinations/kimberley-cruise/fremantle-perth-western-australia-to-darwin-e4260820017
https://www.scenic.com.au/ocean/destinations/australia-south-pacific/australia
https://www.silversea.com/destinations/kimberley-cruise/darwin-to-fremantle-perth-western-australia-e4260803017.html
http://www.brianlangley.id.au/The Traveller/the traveller.html
https://www.fittravel.com.au/en/product/abrolhos-island-discovery-with-pink-lake-ultimate-discovery-tour-ex-geraldton/
