Australia and New Zealand are home to some of the most distinctive wine regions in the world. Their landscapes are dramatic, their climates varied, and their winemakers deeply connected to the land. For travelers who appreciate the quiet pleasure of a well-made vintage and the stories behind it, Seabourn’s 2027 World Cruise offers a rare opportunity to explore these regions in depth.

This 145-day journey, sailing round-trip from Miami, includes a rich stretch through the South Pacific, with stops in boutique ports across Australia and New Zealand. Along the way, guests will encounter wine regions that are often overlooked— places where the cellar doors are small, the conversations are personal, and the wines reflect the character of the soil and the season.

Australia’s Quiet Wine Country

In South Australia, the port of Wallaroo opens the door to the Clare Valley. Known for its Rieslings, this region is less commercial than its neighbor Barossa, but no less compelling. Vineyards here are often family-run, and tastings feel more like visits than transactions. The valley’s rolling hills, and historic stone buildings add to its charm.

Further east, the Southern Highlands of New South Wales offer cool-climate wines in a setting that feels almost European. Pinot Noir and Chardonnay thrive here, and producers like Artemis and Cherry Tree Hill focus on small-batch quality. The region is also known for its gardens and heritage villages, making it a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Sydney.

Inland from the capital, the Canberra District is gaining recognition for its Rieslings and Shiraz. The altitude and climate create wines with structure and finesse, and many producers are experimenting with biodynamic and organic methods.

Tucked along Western Australia’s rugged coastline, the Margaret River wine region is a haven for lovers of bold Cabernet Sauvignon and refined Chardonnay; cooled by ocean breezes and enriched by ancient soils, its boutique wineries blend innovation with tradition, offering cellar door experiences that are as thoughtful as they are scenic, often paired with gourmet food and views of forested valleys and surf-laced shores.

Travel Tip: On the 2027 World Cruise, Busselton, Australia is the perfect port to plan a tour of this incredible region. Seabourn’s culinary team is dedicated to personally shopping for local, regional varietals to keep your exploration going long after you’ve returned to the ship.

New Zealand’s Expressive Terroir

New Zealand’s wine regions are defined by contrast. Marlborough, on the South Island, is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc, but there is more to explore. Boutique producers in the Awatere and Wairau Valleys are crafting nuanced wines that go beyond the expected.

Central Otago, further south, is known for Pinot Noir. The region’s alpine setting creates wines with intensity and elegance. Vineyards here are often surrounded by dramatic scenery including snow-capped peaks, glacial rivers, and golden tussock grass. Tasting in Central Otago is as much about the view as the wine.

On the North Island, Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s oldest wine region. It is especially strong in Bordeaux-style reds and Chardonnay. The area’s art deco architecture and coastal setting add layers of interest, and many wineries offer food pairings that highlight local produce.

Waiheke Island, just off the coast of Auckland, is a place where wine and lifestyle meet. The island’s vineyards are small and often family-owned, with a focus on Syrah and Cabernet blends. Olive groves, beaches, and art galleries make Waiheke a destination that rewards slow exploration.

Travel Tip: Seabourn’s 15-Day New Zealand Explorer is the perfect pairing for a dive deep into the wine regions of this vibrant island nation. Featuring 8 unique New Zealand ports in just 8 consecutive days, you will also enjoy a scenic cruise of Fiordland National Park before arriving in Sydney.

A Journey That Connects Place and Palate

Seabourn’s approach to travel emphasizes depth over breadth, and the 2027 World Cruise is no exception. Explore the full 2027 World Cruise, or book a shorter segment focused on one of these regions. With overnight stays in cities like Sydney and Hobart, and access to smaller ports such as Burnie and Whangarei, you are free to explore beyond the surface. Shore excursions often include visits to local markets, tastings at regional vineyards, and conversations with growers and chefs. While not a wine tour in the traditional sense, our epicurean experts call this storytelling at its most sumptuous. Cheers!