Pack an overnight bag and leave the big smoke behind for a sea break on the Hauraki Gulf, writes Elisabeth Easther.

Untamed, unconventional and dramatic - Tasmania's people, like its land, have their own idiosyncratic take on the rest of Australia's claims to fame, finds Chris Reed. And they like a good night out.

Hmmm, red snapper mojito or beef tartare? Yoga or b-ball? Movie or massage? Chris Reed faces a cruiser's hard decisions.

On a luxurious cruise ship, Jamie Morton goes hunting for his happy place.

Aboard a river ship built for considerable comfort, Albertina Lloyd enjoys the luxurious side of one of Europe's great waterways.

Language is no barrier where enjoyment is a universal concept, writes Julia Carlisle.

You can choose relaxation or adventure — or maybe a mixture of both — on board a boutique cruise ship journeying through Fiji's Yasawa Islands, writes Sue Baxalle.

Magic for kids, and the ship's bars are mercifully Mickey-free, writes Josie Clarke.

A cruise through ancient lands exposes kids to a diverse culture and religion, writes Heidi Douglas.

New cruise line's winning formula puts creatures before home comforts, write Anne Z Cooke and Steve Haggerty.

Cruise industry insiders tell Winston Aldworth about what’s exciting them in the season ahead.

Bright bikinis and black-tie outfits will take you from poolside to cocktail hour in style, says Carol Smith.

A wildlife expedition to Fiordland takes you up close to a pristine land of legend and glacial beauty, writes Jim Eagles.

Take in the Marquesas Islands and explore French Polynesia from on board the Aranui III, writes Suzanne Morphet.

Joe Kafka and his wife embrace the ease of island hopping by boat.

A few pearls of Pacific wit add to the glorious sights on the comedy cruise, writes Winston Aldworth.

A ship is like a second home to regular cruisers, writes Denise Montgomery.

The warm welcome at PNG's Kiriwina Island leaves cruise passenger Paul Rush smiling.

Herald editorial cartoonist Rod Emmerson travels the Greek Isles and Turkish coast on a seven-night cruise aboard the luxurious Azamara Journey.

Peace reigns after inter-tribal war, writes Paul Rush.

Carol Smith finds herself looking enviously at the new single cabins on her recently refitted ship.

One of the great pleasures of a cruise ship journey is the ample opportunity for people watching.

Memories come flooding back when Susan Buckland revisits a city of grace and grandeur.

Make sure you check out all the options before booking a tour, writes Isobel Marriner.

Before you embark ensure five essentials are packed, advises Megan Singleton.

Catherine Masters enjoys a kaleidoscope of European sights from her floating hotel.

Pamela Wade - and her nightie - enjoy her cruise so much she'll be back.

Catherine Masters cruises the Danube, taking in central Europe's stunning cities.

Sue Bryant looks at the best of the cruise industry's shore excursions for the year.

The cruisy life on a river ship appeals to Justine Tyerman.