A once-in-a-lifetime adventure that takes in the dramatic scenery, fascinating Maori culture and iconic wildlife of the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’. Over 12 unforgettable nights cruise from Auckland the ‘City of Sails’ to Milford Sound, you will experience the country’s outstanding iconic sights and the genuine warm welcome for which New Zealanders are renowned.
Departing from Auckland aboard the state-of-the-art small ship Oceanic Discoverer cruise amongst the many scenic islands of Hauraki Gulf, before travelling ashore for a unique experience on rarely-visited White Island. Join our expedition staff on a walk across the island’s barren landscape into the heart of an active sulphur volcano. Marvel at Napier’s wonderful heritage of art deco architecture, the result of the city’s total rebuild following the massive earthquake of 1931 which flattened most of the city. Follow in Captain Cook’s footsteps in the Marlborough Sounds and experience a traditional Maori welcome and cultural show in Gisborne. At Kaikoura, considered to be the world’s premier destination for whalewatching, we join a special cruise allowing us to get up close and personal with these majestic mammals. Then, soak up the French ambience of pretty Akaroa, where myriad wildlife experiences await, before the opportunity to explore historic Dunedin, a fascinating city which retains a strong Scottish heritage and many interesting sights to explore.
A highlight of our expedition will be a visit to the renowned wildlife area that is Stewart Island. In the company of our expert local guides you will encounter New Zealand’s native birdlife, including the iconic kiwi, which is often seen foraging on the beach. The cruise concludes with three memorable days cruising the World Heritage-listed waters of the South Island’s Fiordland National Park. Experience Milford Sound and cruise amongst the towering peaks of rarely-visited Doubtful and Dusky sounds, where myriad marine-life frolics in the cool waters. Our expedition concludes in Milford Sound, before an included coach transfer through spectacular mountain scenery and the green farming lands of the South Island to Queenstown, a resort town of unrivalled beauty, where our journey concludes.
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
Oceanic Discoverer
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 63 metres
Passenger Capacity: 72 (in 36 rooms)
Built: 2005
Onboard Accommodation
Onboard accommodation comprises 36 spacious modern staterooms. You can select from Bridge, Promenade or Main Deck staterooms offering a choice of twin through to junior king-size doubles. All staterooms have an ocean view, en-suite facilities, settee, large wardrobe, desk, luggage storage, individual air-conditioning control, and are serviced daily.
Onboard Facilities
What you would expect of a much larger cruise ship:
- Large sundeck
- Spa Pool
- Guest computer
- Comprehensive reference library
- Phone and fax facilities
- Lecture lounge with large plasma screen
- Limited laundry facilities
- Two fully stocked cocktail bars
- Boutique and dive shop
- Air-conditioned public areas
Oceanic Discoverer is equipped with the latest technology active stabilizers and is fitted with state-of-the-art safety and navigational equipment and is the only Australian passenger ship registered with full SOLAS compliance allowing opportunities to explore a multitude of international voyages.
Dining
All meals during the cruise are included. Breakfast and lunch are served in the Dining Room located on the Main Deck and are buffet-style while dinner is table d’hote. Coffee and tea is available 24 hours. Standard hours are breakfast from 7:00-8:30am, lunch at 12:30pm and dinner at 7:30pm however meal times may vary according to the day's activities. Meal times will be advised in the onboard daily bulletins.
Excursion Boats And Zodiacs
The "Xplorer" is a specially designed aluminium excursion vessel used for the majority of our excursions. This vessel has high horsepower engines and will accommodate all passengers at one time. The "Xplorer" will be used for landings and for extensive exploration of rivers and tributaries. For your added convenience and comfort, the "Xplorer" is equipped with an awning and toilet.
We also carry two inflatable landing craft (Zodiacs). Designed for expedition work, these large and heavy-duty inflatables are extremely safe. Separate air compartments retain a large reserve of buoyancy even if the boats damaged. The flat bottom design permits these crafts to land directly onto the beaches. Expect nonetheless to wade through shallow water to reach the shore. See photo below (right)
