OREANDA-NEWS. Carnival Cruise Line is taking its legendary brand of family fun across the Tasman in January, with guests set to enjoy a one-off, action-packed school holiday cruise to New Zealand. 

Departing Sydney on January 7, 2017, the 10-night Carnival Legend cruise will call at three New Zealand holiday hotspots, with the ship making Carnival's maiden visit to Dunedin, as well as calling at the country's capital Wellington and Akaroa in the South Island. Guests will also have the chance to witness the majestic beauty of Fiordland National Park during a scenic cruise through its famous Sounds. 

Holidaymakers will be able to enjoy plenty of family-friendly fun onshore, with Carnival offering a host of exciting excursions including a chance to follow in the footsteps of the Lord of the Rings in Wellington, swim with Hector's Dolphins in Akaroa and get close to nature during an off-road cross country tour while in Dunedin. 

Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke said Carnival's New Zealand cruise was a perfect option for adventurous families seeking an alternative to a traditional flop and drop beach break this summer. 

"New Zealand is a fantastic family destination with plenty of outdoor action on offer for kids and parents alike, whether they want to get up close with the local wildlife or try a great adventure activity like sea kayaking around the Otago Peninsula from our latest destination Dunedin," Ms Vandekreeke said. 

Families onboard the 2680-guest, 12-deck Carnival Legend will also be able to enjoy Carnival's renowned hospitality as they cross the Tasman, with the ship offering more than 20 restaurants, bars and lounges, as well as its popular Green Thunder – the fastest and steepest waterslide at sea – and a splash park, sports court and mini-golf. Entertainment includes world class productions shows as well as offerings unique to Carnival like Hasbro, The Game Show and the whimsical Seuss at Sea program. 

The cruise will be the only opportunity for Carnival guests to sail to New Zealand's shores in 2017, with the cruise line due to next return to the country in January 2018. 

Fares on the 10-night cruise start from $1890 per person twin share.