12 Night New Zealand (Sydney Roundtrip)
Brilliance of the Seas
Brilliance of the Seas
February 2, 2024
12 Night New Zealand

Brilliance of the Seas - 2/2/2024

The February 2, 2024 cruise on the Brilliance of the Seas departs from Sydney, Australia. On this 12 Night New Zealand (Sydney Roundtrip) sailing, the ship will visit a total of 10 cruise port destinations, including its departure port. The Brilliance of the Seas sets sail on Friday, Feb 2nd and returns on Wednesday, Feb 14th.

Cruise Length
12
Night Cruise
Departure Port
Sydney
Australia
Port Stops
10
Sea Days
4

Cruise Itinerary

Itinerary

Brilliance of the Seas - February 2, 2024 - 12 Nights

DayDatePort
1Feb 1stSydney, Australia
2Feb 3rdAt Sea
3Feb 4thAt Sea
4Feb 5thCruise Milford Sound
4Feb 5thCruise Doubtful Sound
4Feb 5thCruise Dusky Sound
5Feb 6thPort Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand
6Feb 7thChristchurch, New Zealand
7Feb 8thWellington, New Zealand
8Feb 9thNapier, New Zealand
9Feb 10thTauranga, New Zealand
10Feb 11thBay Of Islands, New Zealand
11Feb 12thAt Sea
12Feb 13thAt Sea
13Feb 14thSydney, Australia
show more...

The Brilliance of the Seas sails on February 2, 2024 for a 12 Night New Zealand (Sydney Roundtrip). The ship will depart the port of Sydney, Australia at 1:45 AM and will return to the port of Sydney, Australia on Feb 14th at 1:30 PM. During the 15-day journey, the Brilliance of the Seas will visit 9 additional ports and will spend 4 days at sea.

Itinerary Safety Score

Based on my comprehensive research of cruise port safety information, including recent crime reports, travel advisories, Global Peace Index rankings, and specific port security concerns, we've created a "safety score" for each cruise port stop. The overall rating below represents a combined score for your specific cruise itinerary.

Itinerary Safety Rank
88 / 100
safer than 88% of all cruises
88
8
/ 10
Sydney, Australia
Sydney
Travelers should remain vigilant against petty theft in tourist areas and nightlife districts while enjoying the overall safety of Sydney.
10
/ 10
Cruise Milford Sound
Milford Sound
Travelers can safely enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Milford Sound from the stability of their cruise ship, ensuring a secure experience.
10
/ 10
Cruise Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound
Travelers can safely enjoy the stunning beauty of Doubtful Sound from their cruise ship without concerns about land-based excursions.
10
/ 10
Cruise Dusky Sound
Dusky Sound
Travelers can enjoy the scenic beauty of Dusky Sound safely while remaining on board their cruise ships, minimizing potential risks.
9
/ 10
Port Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand
Port Chalmers
Port Chalmers offers a safe environment for cruise travelers with low crime rates and well-maintained facilities for exploration.
8
/ 10
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch
Christchurch is generally safe for cruise travelers, but it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions.
9
/ 10
Wellington, New Zealand
Wellington
Wellington is a safe cruise destination with low crime rates, allowing travelers to explore its attractions with minimal risk.
9
/ 10
Napier, New Zealand
Napier
Napier, New Zealand, offers travelers a safe experience with a low crime rate and well-maintained infrastructure for exploration.
9
/ 10
Tauranga, New Zealand
Tauranga
Tauranga, New Zealand, offers a low-crime environment and well-developed facilities, ensuring a safe experience for cruise travelers.
9
/ 10
Bay Of Islands, New Zealand
Bay Of Islands
The Bay of Islands offers a safe environment for travelers with low crime rates, minimal commercial traffic, and sheltered anchorages.

Cruise Ship

Brilliance of the Seas Size Infographic

Brilliance of the Seas

91 k
tonnage
962 ft
length
2002
year built
1,074
cabins
2,145
passengers
848
crew

BRILLIANCE OF THE SEAS SIZE

The Brilliance of the Seas has a construction date of 2002 and a total size of 90,090 gross tons. The ship measures 962 feet (293 meters) in length. Brilliance of the Seas is included in Royal Caribbean’s Radiance Class. At full capacity, the Brilliance of the Seas holds 2,993 passengers. That includes 2,145 cruise vacationers and 848 staff members. The Brilliance of the Seas total number of staterooms is 1,074.

Brilliance of the Seas Size & Stats

  • Gross Tonnage:90,090 GT
  • Length:962 ft (293 m)
  • Beam:106 ft (32 m)
  • Draft:29 ft (9 m)
  • Max Speed:25 mph (22 kn)
  • Year Built:2002
  • Years Served:2002 - Present
  • Capacity:2,145
  • Crew Members:848
  • Total on Board:2,993
  • Total Staterooms:1,074
  • Flagged Country:Bahamas
  • Ship Cost:350 Million
  • Status:active

To see how this compares, click through to see Brilliance of the Seas age and stats vs all Royal Caribbean ships. There you’ll find graphs showing length, capacity, tonnage and more for this ship vs all in the fleet.

To check out the ship from top to bottom, click here for Brilliance of the Seas Deck Plans.

Cruise Ports

Day1
FEB 32024
D:1:45 AM

Sydney, Australia, offers docking at Circular Quay. Travelers explore Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach. Excursions visit Blue Mountains. Local markets sell meat pies. The peak season, December to February, brings warm weather for coastal tours. Photography captures iconic landmarks and Pacific vistas. Dining onboard includes lamingtons, an Australian favorite. Souvenirs, like opal crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Aboriginal history. Light clothing and sun protection suit the temperate climate, while comfortable shoes enhance city walks. Sydney’s urban charm offers a vibrant Australian stop. Cruise travelers enjoy a mix of cultural landmarks and scenic coasts, making Sydney an engaging destination for exploration. (126 words)

Day2
FEB 32024
At Sea

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Day3
FEB 42024
At Sea

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Day4
FEB 52024
A:3:00 PMD:4:00 PM

Milford Sound, a UNESCO World Heritage fjord in New Zealand’s Fiordland, has no docking; ships cruise its serene waters. Travelers spot fur seals lounging on rocks and Fiordland crested penguins diving. Zodiacs approach Stirling Falls, surrounded by towering cliffs. No facilities are present; provisions come from the ship. The peak season, December to March, brings frequent rain. Photography captures Mitre Peak’s reflection in calm waters. Dining onboard features green-lipped mussels. Souvenirs, like fjord postcards, are sold in ship shops. Briefings stress ecosystem protection. Kayaking explores quiet coves, revealing marine life. Rain gear is essential for the wet climate. Milford Sound’s dramatic cliffs and waterfalls create a breathtaking natural spectacle, drawing nature lovers to its pristine wilderness.

Day4
FEB 52024
A:8:00 PMD:9:00 PM

Doubtful Sound, a pristine fjord in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, offers no docking; ships cruise the tranquil waterway. Travelers marvel at fur seals basking on rocky outcrops and rare Fiordland crested penguins diving in the clear waters. Zodiac excursions venture to Blanket Bay, revealing lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls framed by steep cliffs. No facilities are available, so all provisions come from the ship. The peak season, from December to March, brings milder weather, though rain is frequent. Photography captures the fjord’s misty cliffs and serene waters, a haven for nature lovers. Dining is limited to onboard menus, often featuring fresh seafood like salmon. Souvenirs, such as fjord-themed postcards, are available in ship gift shops. Briefings emphasize environmental protection to preserve the delicate ecosystem. Kayaking offers intimate views of dolphins and seals. The remote setting requires layered clothing for comfort.

Day4
FEB 62024
A:11:00 PMD:12:00 AM

Dusky Sound, a remote fjord in New Zealand’s Fiordland, features no docking; ships glide through its serene waters. Travelers observe bottlenose dolphins leaping gracefully and royal albatross soaring above rugged cliffs. Zodiac trips explore Resolution Island, showcasing native flora and historic Maori sites. No facilities exist, so provisions are ship-based. The peak season, December to March, offers milder temperatures, though rain is common. Photography captures misty peaks and reflective waters, ideal for wilderness enthusiasts. Dining is onboard, often featuring local fish like cod. Souvenirs, including penguin postcards, are sold in ship shops. Briefings stress minimal environmental impact to protect the pristine habitat. Kayaking provides close encounters with seals and seabirds. The unpredictable weather demands waterproof gear and warm layers. Scenic cruises reveal the fjord’s untouched beauty, making it a highlight for nature-focused travelers.

Day5
FEB 62024
New Zealand
A:4:00 PMD:2:00 AM

Port Chalmers (Dunedin), New Zealand, offers docking at Port Chalmers. Travelers explore Larnach Castle and Otago Peninsula. Excursions include wildlife tours for albatross. Local markets sell hokey pokey. The peak season, December to February, brings warm weather for coastal tours. Photography captures Gothic castles and Pacific vistas. Dining onboard includes whitebait fritters, a Kiwi favorite. Souvenirs, like paua crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Maori history. Light clothing and sun protection suit the temperate climate, while sturdy shoes enhance peninsula hikes. Port Chalmers’ cultural charm offers a vibrant New Zealand stop. Cruise travelers enjoy a mix of historic castles and scenic wildlife, making Port Chalmers an engaging destination. (126 words)

Day6
FEB 72024
A:3:00 PMD:3:00 AM

Christchurch, New Zealand, docks at Lyttelton Port, 12 kilometers from downtown, with shuttles for 20-minute rides. The city, population 380,000, features the Botanic Gardens and Transitional Cathedral. Local markets sell pavlova. Excursions to Akaroa, 1 hour south, offer dolphin cruises. Peak season December to March; taxis 10-20 NZD. Dining includes lamb shanks at riverside cafes. Souvenirs feature greenstone pendants.

Day7
FEB 82024
A:2:30 PMD:12:30 AM

Wellington, New Zealand, offers docking at Wellington Port. Travelers explore Te Papa Museum and Mount Victoria. Excursions visit Weta Workshop. Local markets sell pavlova. The peak season, December to February, brings warm weather for coastal tours. Photography captures urban harbors and Cook Strait vistas. Dining onboard includes lamb, a Kiwi favorite. Souvenirs, like Maori crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Polynesian history. Light clothing and sun protection suit the temperate climate, while comfortable shoes enhance city walks. Wellington’s cultural charm offers a vibrant New Zealand stop. Cruise travelers enjoy a mix of modern museums and scenic lookouts, making Wellington an engaging destination for exploration. (126 words)

Day8
FEB 92024
A:2:00 PMD:10:30 PM

Napier, New Zealand, offers docking at Napier Port. Travelers explore Art Deco District and Hawke’s Bay wineries. Excursions visit Cape Kidnappers’ gannets. Local markets sell pavlova. The peak season, December to February, brings warm weather for coastal tours. Photography captures Art Deco buildings and Pacific vistas. Dining onboard includes lamb, a Kiwi favorite. Souvenirs, like Maori crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Ngāti Kahungunu history. Light clothing and sun protection suit the temperate climate, while comfortable shoes enhance city walks. Napier’s cultural charm offers a vibrant New Zealand stop. Cruise travelers enjoy a mix of architectural heritage and scenic vineyards, making Napier an engaging destination. (126 words)

Day9
FEB 102024
A:4:15 PMD:3:15 AM

Tauranga, New Zealand, offers docking at Tauranga Port. Travelers explore Mount Maunganui and Rotorua’s geothermal sites. Excursions include Maori cultural tours. Local markets sell pavlova. The peak season, December to February, brings warm weather for coastal tours. Photography captures geysers and Bay of Plenty vistas. Dining onboard includes lamb, a Kiwi favorite. Souvenirs, like jade crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Maori history. Light clothing and sun protection suit the temperate climate, while sturdy shoes enhance geothermal hikes. Tauranga’s cultural charm offers a vibrant New Zealand stop. Cruise travelers enjoy a mix of natural wonders and indigenous heritage, making Tauranga an engaging destination. (126 words)

Day10
FEB 112024
A:4:45 PMD:12:30 AM

Bay of Islands, New Zealand, offers docking at Waitangi Port. Travelers explore Waitangi Treaty Grounds and Paihia. Excursions include dolphin-watching tours. Local markets sell hāngī. The peak season, December to February, brings warm weather for coastal tours. Photography captures historic sites and Pacific vistas. Dining onboard includes kumara, a Kiwi favorite. Souvenirs, like paua crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Maori history. Light clothing and sun protection suit the temperate climate, while water shoes enhance beach exploration. Bay of Islands’ coastal charm offers a vibrant New Zealand stop. Cruise travelers enjoy a mix of cultural heritage and marine adventures, making Bay of Islands an engaging destination. (126 words)

Day11
FEB 122024
At Sea

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Day12
FEB 132024
At Sea

Take advantage of the many on board activites during your day at sea. You'll have more than enough to fill your day!

Day13
FEB 142024
A:1:30 PM

Sydney, Australia, offers docking at Circular Quay. Travelers explore Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach. Excursions visit Blue Mountains. Local markets sell meat pies. The peak season, December to February, brings warm weather for coastal tours. Photography captures iconic landmarks and Pacific vistas. Dining onboard includes lamingtons, an Australian favorite. Souvenirs, like opal crafts, are sold in ship shops. Briefings cover Aboriginal history. Light clothing and sun protection suit the temperate climate, while comfortable shoes enhance city walks. Sydney’s urban charm offers a vibrant Australian stop. Cruise travelers enjoy a mix of cultural landmarks and scenic coasts, making Sydney an engaging destination for exploration. (126 words)