32 Offbeat Cruise Excursions That Go Way Beyond Sightseeing

6. Hunt for Glowworms in New Zealand’s Waitomo Caves

While many New Zealand cruises highlight fjords and vineyards, few travelers expect to embark on a magical underground adventure. From Tauranga or Auckland, an excursion to the Waitomo Caves takes you into a subterranean world illuminated by thousands of tiny, bioluminescent glowworms. You’ll glide silently through the caves in a small boat, as the creatures overhead create a starlit galaxy-like scene. Pro Tip:This is a popular attraction, but early morning tours tend to be quieter and more atmospheric.