Winter in the United States means summer in Australia and New Zealand, so most cruises leave between December and March to catch the sun. Crystal Cruises (800-820-6663) offers an 18-day Singapore-to-Sydney voyage starting December 1 with guest chef André Soltner. David Lowe and Jane Wilson of Australia's Lowe Family Wines will also share insights. Cunard Line (800-728-6273) sends its Queen Elizabeth II on an itinerary from San Francisco to Sydney (January 21 to February 17, 2000) and then on to Singapore (February 17 to March 11). Norwegian Capricorn (800-327-7030) has a 24-night cruise leaving Sydney on December 17 that tours New Zealand and the South Pacific. An extensive wine list concentrates on Australia. Princess Cruises (800-774-6237) was recently inducted into the Chaîne des Rotisseurs, an international gastronomic society. Their 17-day millennial trip leaves Sydney on December 21 and crosses the international date line on New Year's Eve en route to Auckland. Radisson Seven Seas (800-333-3333) sails the coasts of New Zealand and Australia from December through March. Royal Caribbean International (888-303-7225) will also ring in 2000 at the date line during a voyage from Sydney to Auckland (December 19 to January 9). Regional foods are an RCI specialty. Silversea Cruises (800-722-9955) invites chefs from the Cordon Bleu to give classes, lead wine tastings and prepare dinners on a 14-day Singapore-to-Cairns, Australia, trip leaving December 7. --Jessie Carry
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