Description

Aotearoa or New Zealand, one of the world’s most isolated countries is also one of the greatest. Its small compass houses an amazing range of scenery, incorporating just about every natural phenomena that you can think of - geysers, volcanoes, fjords, mountains and stunning wildlife. Yet this is not only a voyage of unforgettable landscapes, expect also sophisticated cities and architectural jewels along the way.

Bonus:  Fly Free plus one night stay in Auckland

Your Fly, Stay & Cruise Package Includes:

• Economy class flights from Sydney to Auckland, returning from Dunedin
• Luxury private car transfer from Airport to Hotel
• 1 night accommodation in Auckland including breakfast
• 10 night cruise onboard Silver Explorer
• Includes  gourmet dining in a choice of restaurants, beverages in-suite & throughout the ship including champagne, select wines & spirits, butler service in every suite, Parka, unlimited Wifi, all guided zodiac, land & sea tours + more
• Port charges, pre paid gratuities onboard your cruise & airline taxes

Extend your flights and stay longer - talk to our travel experts about more options

Highlights: Auckland, Napier, Picton, Milford & Dusky Sound, Snares Islands, Bluff, Dunedin 

Cruise highlights:

Napier, New Zealand 
Napier is the starting point to reach the iconic Cape Kidnappers, home to the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. Hawke’s Bay’s vineyards are home to some of New Zealand’s ultra-premium wines. Some of the most sought-after wines New Zealand has to offer are produced here and the country’s oldest winemaking region is renowned for its award-winning red wines, fresh produce and artisan food producers.
Since Napier claims to be the “Art Deco Capital of the World”, a visit to the art deco district to admire the world‐class collection of architecture is a must. 

Ship Cove and Motuara, New Zealand 
Captain Cook visited Ships Cove on many occasions during his three voyages into the Pacific, and a memorial has been set up here. A landing will permit to walk to a small waterfall or hike the first metres of the famous Queen Charlotte Track –which has its northern starting point here.
Nearby Motuara, a predator-free Island Bird Sanctuary, shows Yellow-crowned Parakeets, South Island Saddlebacks, South Island Robbins, and bellbirds -sometimes even Little Blue Penguins can be seen with a bit of luck. For better viewing group sizes on Motuara are restricted.

Stewart Island and Ulva Island, New Zealand 
To gain an insight into New Zealand’s southernmost community one can explore Oban and the surrounding bays at one’s own pace. Neighbouring Ulva Island is a world renowned open bird sanctuary looked after by the Department of Conservation. Small groups of not more than 12 guests will be led by professional local guides to ensure a maximum experience of natural history. As Ulva has no invasive species, the walk through the natural forest will be a wonderful opportunity to see the endemic plants and birdlife.

Cruise Itinerary