Cruise the southern seas in style

By STEVE HART

The superliner Regal Princess will be returning to New Zealand in December to offer eight cruises between Auckland and Sydney.

P&O Cruises New Zealand manager Todd Bolton said: "Some cruise companies have reduced the number of calls to New Zealand ports this summer, but we feel there's a growing interest from New Zealanders to cruise close to home."

Starting on December 15, the 70,000-tonne superliner will visit Fiordland National Park, Dunedin, Christchurch, Auckland, Wellington, Sydney, Hobart and Melbourne during her 12-day voyages between Auckland and Sydney. One cruise will visit Tauranga.

From the glaciers of Fiordland to the art and culture of Melbourne, the journey allows passengers to experience both the big-city and scenery of Australia and New Zealand.

Part of P&O's American fleet, the Regal Princess was designed by renowned architect Renzo Piano and inspired by the silhouette of a dolphin.

Spanning the Regal Princess' 12 decks are two pools, four whirlpool spas, a fun swim-up bar, spacious teak decks, 24-hour dining, a wine and caviar bar, domed observation lounge, showlounge, pizzeria, casino, gym and health centre.

The Regal Princess' 12-day cruises depart from Sydney on December 15, January 8, February 1 and February 25 next year, or from Auckland on December 27, January 30, February 13 and March 9 next year.

Prices start from $2994 for an inside twin cabin, $3207 for an outside twin cabin and $5480 for an outside twin with private balcony.

P&O is also offering connecting airfares and hotel packages.

Bookings or more information are available through travel agents or P&O Cruises. Ph 0800 441 766.

P&O Cruises