Smcahee

We did that cruise the last two times. Air New Zealand was the only airline that flew from the states (SFO or LAX) to Auckland. I believe they are still a star alliance carrier. If you're going to fly back to the states from Sydney you'd probably be on united.

You have more options if you fly from the states to and from Australia. Check aircraft. Last time delta was flying 777s and united 747s. 777 was nicer in economy. First or business might not matter.

Air New Zealand had something called sky couch on their 777s. Two people bought the third seat in a row for less than a third ticket and it turned into a bed of sorts.

If you are looking for a suite on the Australia cruise, or a room in any other category that is sold out, you might try calling Atlantis on Monday. We booked a room while on the Allure cruise and at that time they said they were holding half of the ship in reserve for guests booked on the March cruise, which finishes up this weekend. Not sure if they actually did that or if they went on to release those rooms when they started selling to Alumni and the general public. Can't hurt to try.

Solstice would be nice but we did Australia with Atlantis two years ago. Without the retractable roof over the pool deck the night parties would all have been in a cramped indoor disco.