The NZ Cruise Association is accusing health officials of unfairly rocking the boat by warning people off overseas cruises.
Official government advice on MFAT'S Safe Travel site says New Zealanders, particularly those with underlying health concerns, should reconsider taking an overseas cruise due to Covid-19.
It says close contact onboard can speed up the spread and some ships have been declined entry to ports which can have significant consequences for travellers.
The Diamond Princess cruise ship - dubbed the 'floating petri dish' - spent weeks in lockdown in Japan after passengers tested positive for Covid-19.
New Zealanders onboard were placed in quarantine at Whangapaora on their return home.
But Kevin O'Sullivan from the NZ Cruise Association said they are being unfairly targeted and he does not accept the idea that cruise passengers face a greater risk than others.
