Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and a free morning to explore Auckland before lunch and boarding the ship. Settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the vessel, then join the Expedition Team on the Observation Deck as we set course south for Fiordland and our adventure begins.

From our berth in Tauranga, we drive inland through the rich horticultural region of the Bay of Plenty to the geothermal heartland of Rotorua. Marvel at steam vents, geysers and bubbling mud pools with expert local guides, in a region renowned for Māori culture, spa experiences and lush forests.

Sailing down the scenic North Island coastline, enjoy a day at sea with onboard lectures, relaxing time and the chance to spot whales and dolphins from the Observation Deck as we sail toward Wellington.

New Zealand’s “coolest little capital” welcomes us into its exceptional natural harbour, with the ship docked in the centre of the action. Explore the city on foot, including the iconic cable car, Zealandia nature reserve, the Botanic Gardens and Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum.

Join your naturalists to discover the beautiful coastal scenery of Abel Tasman National Park, exploring tranquil bays and observing wildlife. Walk a section of the iconic Abel Tasman Track, stopping at serene beaches surrounded by native coastal bush.

Note: some departures do not include Abel Tasman National Park.

This morning we sail into the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds, a labyrinth of waterways intersecting the northern shores of the South Island. Explore a coastal trail through regenerating forest and watch for native birds, including Saddleback, Parakeets and Robins.

We sail through the Akaroa heads and anchor in the sheltered waters of Canterbury’s largest harbour, beneath the eroded volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula, where the French attempted to settle in 1840. This afternoon, visit the Barry’s Bay Cheese Factory and French Farm Vineyard, or explore Akaroa’s township and local nature walks.

Sail into the beautiful Otago Harbour and watch for Northern Royal Albatross at the Taiaroa Head colony. Explore the fashion-forward city of Dunedin, known as the Edinburgh of the south, and the scenic Otago Peninsula, home to resting New Zealand Sea Lions and Yellow-eyed Penguins in one of their last mainland strongholds.

New Zealand’s third island is well off the usual tourist track, with untouched bushland and stunning scenery. We spend the morning exploring nearby Ulva Island, predator-free since 1997 and rich in birdlife including Stewart Island Robin, Southern Brown Kiwi, Kaka, Kereru, Mohua and Tui. In the afternoon, explore Paterson Inlet and the quirky township of Oban in Halfmoon Bay, home to the new Rakiura Museum and the iconic South Sea Hotel.

We have two full days to explore Fiordland’s incredible wilderness in the southwest corner of the South Island. Well known to local Māori, Captain Cook and his crew landed here on the HMS Resolution in 1773, spending five weeks in Dusky Sound. Fiordland’s coast is only accessible by sea, making it the most remote region of New Zealand’s mainland.

Our schedule allows flexibility to visit Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound, Acheron Passage, Astronomer’s Point and Pickersgill Harbour, depending on conditions. While in Dusky Sound, there’s an optional helicopter flight over the fiord and a landing on Mount Pender, taking in sweeping views across the islands and waterways below.

Early this morning we arrive at the Port of Bluff. After a final breakfast, we bid farewell to fellow travellers and take a complimentary coach transfer to either Invercargill or Queenstown Airport. In case of unexpected delays, we ask that you not book onward travel until after midday from Invercargill and after 3pm from Queenstown.

Note: During the voyage, circumstances may require deviations from the planned itinerary, including poor weather or opportunities for unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed. Voyages are planned and scheduled pending final regulatory approval.