When should I book?

There is no magic time to book a cruise.

‘‘I’m not a fan of the sitting back and waiting for prices to change approach,’’ says Jardine.

‘‘Cruise lines aren’t about the race to the bottom – you would rarely see cheap prices going out at the last minute.

‘‘With most brands, the earlier you book, the better the deal.’’

For local cruises departing out of Auckland or Sydney, three to six months in advance would be the average booking time, Jardine says.

For international cruises, it’s six to 12 months – but keep in mind you’ll also be wanting to lock in your airfares.

And it’s getting competitive out there, with close to 70,000 New Zealanders taking a cruise in 2015 – a 10 per cent increase on the previous year.

‘‘Generally, cruising is becoming a lot more popular than what it was a few years ago, and ships are filling up. If it’s available now, book.’’ 4180-passenger ship will be the newest, biggest, most advanced ship to sail in New Zealand waters this season.

It boasts skydiving and surf simulators. A viewing capsule that ascends 300 feet above sea level. A basketball court, roller skating rink, and bumper car track. Twenty one different restaurants and cafes.

‘‘A lot of people have this idea, ‘I’m going to be cooped up on this thing