Auckland to Auckland Cruise

Day 1 - Auckland

Arrive: Fri 20 December 2024 at 07:00

Blending beachy recreation with all the delights of a modern, diverse and thoroughly multicultural city, Auckland sits on the lucid blue-green waters of New Zealand’s north island. Known as the ‘City of Sails’, its two harbours will tempt you with waterfront walks, and the chance to breathe fresh sea air deep into your lungs while absorbing spectacular views of Auckland’s grand harbour bridge’s span. Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 metres to the Sky Tower, and looking out over the city’s gleaming silver towers, which reflect on the abundant waters below. Views over the bay and adjacent islands await, and you can share elegant cocktails at this dizzying height, above the mingling yachts of Viaduct Harbour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area at Auckland Art Gallery, Toi o T?maki. Set beside tranquil fountains and handsomely landscaped flowerbeds of Albert Park, the French-Renaissance building houses New Zealand’s most extensive art collection, and exhibits works from M?ori and Pacific artists. New Zealand is world-renowned for its captivating natural scenery, and day trips across the sparkling bays, to nearby islands like Waiheke, Tiritiri Matangi, and Rangitoto, are always tempting. Discover lava caves, grape-laden vineyards and flourishing wildlife in the Hauraki Gulf’s islands. You’ll also find an exceptional 360-degree panorama over the city, to the horizon beyond, from the heights of ancient Mount Eden. The spectacular dormant volcano rises improbably from a city suburb, and also lends its name to Eden Park – the unusual, translucent stadium of New Zealand’s mighty All Blacks.

Day 2 - Auckland

Depart: Sat 21 December 2024 at 18:00

Blending beachy recreation with all the delights of a modern, diverse and thoroughly multicultural city, Auckland sits on the lucid blue-green waters of New Zealand’s north island. Known as the ‘City of Sails’, its two harbours will tempt you with waterfront walks, and the chance to breathe fresh sea air deep into your lungs while absorbing spectacular views of Auckland’s grand harbour bridge’s span. Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 metres to the Sky Tower, and looking out over the city’s gleaming silver towers, which reflect on the abundant waters below. Views over the bay and adjacent islands await, and you can share elegant cocktails at this dizzying height, above the mingling yachts of Viaduct Harbour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area at Auckland Art Gallery, Toi o T?maki. Set beside tranquil fountains and handsomely landscaped flowerbeds of Albert Park, the French-Renaissance building houses New Zealand’s most extensive art collection, and exhibits works from M?ori and Pacific artists. New Zealand is world-renowned for its captivating natural scenery, and day trips across the sparkling bays, to nearby islands like Waiheke, Tiritiri Matangi, and Rangitoto, are always tempting. Discover lava caves, grape-laden vineyards and flourishing wildlife in the Hauraki Gulf’s islands. You’ll also find an exceptional 360-degree panorama over the city, to the horizon beyond, from the heights of ancient Mount Eden. The spectacular dormant volcano rises improbably from a city suburb, and also lends its name to Eden Park – the unusual, translucent stadium of New Zealand’s mighty All Blacks.

Day 3 - Tauranga

Arrive: Sun 22 December 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 22 December 2024 at 18:00

Tauranga is the principal city of the Bay of Plenty. The founders of Tauranga, 19th-century missionaries, left a legacy of well-planned parks and gardens for today's residents and visitors to enjoy.

Day 4 - Bay of Islands

Arrive: Mon 23 December 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 23 December 2024 at 18:00

The Tasman Sea on the west and the Pacific Ocean on the east meet at the top of North Island at Cape Reinga. No matter what route you take, you'll pass farms and forests, marvellous beaches, and great open spaces. The East Coast, up to the Bay of Islands, is Northland's most densely populated, often with refugees from bigger cities—looking for a more relaxed life—clustered around breathtaking beaches. The first decision on the drive north comes at the foot of the Brynderwyn Hills. Turning left will take you up the West Coast through areas once covered with forests and now used for either agricultural or horticulture. Driving over "the Brynderwyns," as they are known, takes you to Whangarei, the only city in Northland. If you're in the mood for a diversion, you can slip to the beautiful coastline and take in Waipu Cove, an area settled by Scots, and Laings Beach, where million-dollar homes sit next to small Kiwi beach houses. An hour's drive farther north is the Bay of Islands, known all over the world for its beauty. There you will find lush forests, splendid beaches, and shimmering harbors. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840 between M?oriand the British Crown, establishing the basis for the modern New Zealand state. Every year on February 6, the extremely beautiful Waitangi Treaty Ground (the name means weeping waters) is the sight of a celebration of the treaty and protests by M?ori unhappy with it. Continuing north on the East Coast, the agricultural backbone of the region is even more evident and a series of winding loop roads off the main highway will take you to beaches that are both beautiful and isolated where you can swim, dive, picnic, or just laze. . The West Coast is even less populated, and the coastline is rugged and windswept. In the Waipoua Forest, you will find some of New Zealand's oldest and largest kauri trees; the winding road will also take you past mangrove swamps. Crowning the region is the spiritually significant Cape Reinga, the headland at the top of the vast stretch of 90 Mile Beach, where it's believed M?ori souls depart after death. Today M?ori make up roughly a quarter of the area's population (compared with the national average of about 15%). The legendary M?ori navigator Kupe was said to have landed on the shores of Hokianga Harbour, where the first arrivals made their home. Many different wi (tribes) lived throughout Northland, including Ngapuhi (the largest), Te Roroa, Ngati Wai, Ngati Kuri, Te Aupouri, Ngaitakoto, Ngati Kahu, and Te Rarawa. Many M?orihere can trace their ancestry to the earliest inhabitants

Day 5 - At Sea

Day 6 - At Sea

Day 7 - Dravuni, Fiji Islands

Arrive: Thu 26 December 2024 at 12:00 / Depart: Thu 26 December 2024 at 19:00

Step into a vision of tropical island paradise, as you tread the soft white sands of Dravuni Island. A dreamy setting, alive with dazzling and intense colours and sea views – you'll find walls of lazily reclining palm trees backing onto beautiful fringes of sugary-white, powder-soft sand. Impossibly clear blue waters roll against the island's coastline, begging you to dip in and relish the pleasure of swimming through clear waves, observing the kaleidoscopic world of colour below the surface. A tiny shaving of an island, Fiji's Dravuni Island is almost lost amid the aquamarine haze of the South Pacific. A tight-knit community of 150 islanders live here in a compact scattering of village huts – almost swallowed whole by the island's jungled interior. Take the gentle incline up to the top of the one small hill, from which you can admire the sum total of this tiny island of perfection. Wander the pristine beaches that fringe the island's circumference, before taking a break to refresh with sweet coconut milk, from a husk freshly cleaved open by a friendly local. You're also welcome to drop in and visit the small primary school - where the kids relish the opportunity to practice their English with visitors. Corals create vivid, brain-like structures on the seafloor, providing nooks and crannies for the island's rich tropical fish-life to flit and dance between. Fiji's Great Astrolabe Reef is also within reach, promising a vast underworld universe of overlapping corals, and a vibrant explosion of life – see sharks, tuna and snappers are among the reef's many resident species.

Day 8 - Lautoka

Arrive: Fri 27 December 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 27 December 2024 at 18:00

Lautoka is often described as the sugar city. Sugar cane is the major industry of Fiji and Lautoka is its main base. Here are the industries' headquarters, the largest sugar mill, modern loading facilities and a large wharf. It features 70 miles of roads, almost all paved, a wonderful botanical garden and royal palm trees decorating the city's main street, Vitogo Parade. The municipal market is another attraction from both outside and inside. Fiji typifies the image of paradise. The people here live as they have done for centuries, retaining their ancient traditions and simple and carefree lifestyle supported by the harvest of a generous land and bountiful sea.

Day 9 - At Sea

Day 10 - Champagne Bay, Vanuatu

Arrive: Sun 29 December 2024 at 13:00 / Depart: Sun 29 December 2024 at 19:00

As world famous beaches go, Champagne Beach is one of the big hitters. In 2003, CNN ranked it number nine in its list of top 100 beaches and independent travel specialists permanently include it on their list of 50 best beaches worldwide. It’s one of the world’s greatest natural beauties: picture-perfect beach white sand, turquoise water and nothing – save for the occasional cow or curious turtle - around. With only coconut plantations and a few friendly locals to keep you company, this might just be the island of your dreams. The glorious name “Champagne Beach” was given to the island in the 17th century, when Pedro de Quirós believed he had reached the famous unknown southern land or the “Tierra Australis Incognita” (or Australia as we now know it). He believed the effervescent bubbles of volcanic origin that bubble up from the crystal clear waters were reminiscent of the bubbles of Champagne. Additionally, the coastline is shaped like an art deco Champagne saucer, so the name stuck! The beach is located on the largest yet least populated island in the 40-island Vanuatu archipelago, near the village of Hog Harbor on Espiritu Santo Island. If you want to venture beyond the beach, then Espiritu Santu is also famed for its blue holes. The island is home to some of the clearest waters on Earth, benefiting from natural filtering from underground limestone caves. Ride or paddle your way through emerald green rainforest amid the sound of birdsong for an experience that will make your soul sing.

Day 11 - Port Vila, Vanuatu

Arrive: Mon 30 December 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Mon 30 December 2024 at 18:00

An archipelago of smiles and warm welcomes, Vanuatu enjoys a reputation as the happiest place in the world. With an abundance of stunning isolated beaches, and endless reefs offering idyllic escape from the humdrum, it’s easy enough to understand why. Green-clad volcanoes rise from the depths of the South Pacific Ocean, creating 83 lush islands. Port Vila is the capital of this scattering of geothermal isles, where mountains brood, hot springs gurgle, and thick rainforests sway. View less The sounds of water rushing - as you cut through rainforest trails - offers a clue that you’re getting close to the Mele Cascades - one of Port Vila’s most dramatic and spectacular natural sights. A remarkable collection of plumes rolls through the jungle, and down into the refreshing splash pool waiting below. Jump in, to experience the cool hit of the fall’s pure waters. Offshore islands offer exemplary snorkelling opportunities, and glass-bottom boat rides give privileged windows into the swirling worlds of colour below the waves. Explore more of the islands, to encounter traditional villages and Vanuatu island culture, or to seek out secluded beaches of crystal-clear water - where worries you didn’t even realise you had will drift away. Set on Efate Island, Port Vila is close to a selection of marvellous beaches like Eton Beach and Crystal Blue Lagoon. Visit one of the many restaurants serving food from across the globe, to try fresh Spanish mackerel and meaty chunks of seared tuna. Or the adventurous can pound through the jungle on horseback, kayak on the river, or hook fish from the island’s sparkling waters.

Day 12 - Lifou Island

Arrive: Tue 31 December 2024 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 31 December 2024 at 14:00

Lifou Island or Drehu in the local language is the largest, most populous and most important island of the Loyalty Islands, in the archipelago of New Caledonia, an overseas territory of France in the Pacific Ocean. With a total area of 1,207 square kilometers Lifou is located east of Australia at 20.9°S

Day 13 - At Sea

Day 14 - Norfolk Island, Australia

Arrive: Thu 02 January 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 02 January 2025 at 18:00

750 kilometers northwest of New Zealand and 1400 kilometers east of Gold Coast, NSW, Norfolk Island, an External Territory of Australia consisting of Norfolk Island and uninhabited Phillip Island and Nepean Island, was self-governed until 2015 when it came under the laws of New South Wales. Discovered by Captain Cook in 1774, the island has had different settlements, starting with Polynesians that had already disappeared before Cook’s visit, followed by convicts and soldiers in 1788. This penal colony was abandoned in 1814 yet used again from 1825 to 1855. View less The Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area, with its elegantly restored Georgian houses at Quality Row, is among the 11 historic Australian Convict Sites, UNESCO World Heritage. Most of today’s population can be traced back to the 194 descendants of the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian wives who had left Pitcairn for Norfolk in 1856. In 1867 the Church of England’s Melanesian Mission moved its headquarter to Norfolk. A few years later St Barnabas Chapel was built of stone from the ruins of the New Gaol. The wooden seats have beautiful mother-of-pearl inlay work in Solomon Island style. 14% of the island is national park and the Botanical Gardens feature plants that are endemic to Norfolk Island. Golden Whistlers, Sacred Kingfisher and Norfolk’s symbolic Green Parrot can often be seen and heard. Norfolk and close by Phillip and Nepean Islands are important breeding sites for seabirds such as Red-tailed Tropicbirds, Sooty Terns, Wedge-tailed Shearwaters, and Masked Boobies.

Day 15 - At Sea

Day 16 - At Sea

Day 17 - Sydney

Arrive: Sun 05 January 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 05 January 2025 at 19:00

With its glorious harbour, lavish golden beaches and iconic landmarks, Sydney is Australia's showpiece city. Creative and curious, discover the world-class cuisine, indigenous culture, and irresistible beach life that make Sydney one of the world’s most dynamic, exciting destinations. Sydney’s sparkling harbour is the heart of a richly cultural city. Overlooked by the metallic curves of the masterpiece of an Opera House, and that grand arched harbour bridge. Take it all in from the water, and admire the iconic landmarks, which are set before the city’s gleaming skyline backdrop. View less If you’re feeling adventurous, take the legendary climb up the smooth curve of the bridge – nicknamed the Coathanger - to soak in the shining city’s spread from a unique perspective. Spread out to tan on one of the world’s most famous stretches of sand - Bondi Beach. Restaurants and bars burble away in the background, while the sun beams down, and surfers curl and leap over pure rollers. Swim in spectacular salty ocean pools, or wander the beautiful Bondi to Coogee coastal walk for more of this sun-gorged stretch of prime coastline. Leaving the thrills of Australia’s largest city behind is surprisingly simple – take to the skies to be flown above skyscrapers and rippling ribbons of waves, out to majestic peaks, sheer cliffs and iconic rock formations - like the Three Sisters of the Blue Mountains. Or, drop in on wildlife sanctuaries caring for the country’s animals – from hopping kangaroos to adorably cute, cuddly koalas.

Day 18 - At Sea

Day 19 - Melbourne

Arrive: Tue 07 January 2025 at 12:01

Melbourne is about the same size as Sydney, but there the similarity ends. Where Sydney is a jumble of hills and inlets, Melbourne spreads over a flat plain. Its pace, steadfast and sedate, contrasts with Sydney's upbeat and brassy lifestyle. Tree-shaded parks and gardens, a quiet bay and a proud stateliness become this capital of culture and the arts. Grand municipal buildings and splendid Victorian edifices, which sprang up in the wake of the gold rush, stand proudly along broad avenues.

Day 20 - Melbourne

Depart: Wed 08 January 2025 at 18:00

Melbourne is about the same size as Sydney, but there the similarity ends. Where Sydney is a jumble of hills and inlets, Melbourne spreads over a flat plain. Its pace, steadfast and sedate, contrasts with Sydney's upbeat and brassy lifestyle. Tree-shaded parks and gardens, a quiet bay and a proud stateliness become this capital of culture and the arts. Grand municipal buildings and splendid Victorian edifices, which sprang up in the wake of the gold rush, stand proudly along broad avenues.

Day 21 - At Sea

Day 22 - Hobart

Arrive: Fri 10 January 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 10 January 2025 at 18:00

Mount Wellington's looming, cloud-wisped form is an ever-present sight as you explore booming Hobart, the cosmopolitan capital of Australia's most southerly state. A former British penal colony, nowadays Australia’s second-oldest city is a place to live the free and easy life. Encircled by dramatic cliffs, landscaped gardens and rolling vineyards, Hobart is also well stacked with cultural pursuits including museums, and respected - if controversial - galleries plastering new and old art to their walls. View less With fresh sea breezes and a fabulous location, Hobart is a creative place, where you can browse the produce of local artisans in Saturday's massive Salamanca Market - which draws visitors from all across Tasmania and beyond. Eat at waterfront restaurants, or rise up Mount Wellington's slopes to appreciate the remoteness of Hobart's location. From this elevated platform, you can look down across views of flowing forests, undulating mountains and endless ocean swallowing up the city. Further away, animal sanctuaries introduce you to the island's famous inhabitants, including the famous Tasmanian devil. Thirsty? Hobart has a long brewing tradition - so enjoy a refreshing ale poured from the country's oldest brewery. The climate's blend of generous sunshine and cool Antarctic breezes helps Hobart to produce its acclaimed wines, and thick clumps of pinot noir grapes hang from vineyards dotted along the valleys nearby. Taste the wines, accompanied by a platter of artisan cheese and sausage. Whiskey aficionados aren't left in the cold either, with international award-winning distilleries close by.

Day 23 - At Sea

Day 24 - At Sea

Day 25 - Cruising Milford and Doubfull Fjords

Day 26 - Bluff (Invercargill)

Arrive: Tue 14 January 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 14 January 2025 at 18:00

The most southernmost town in New Zealand, Bluff (or The Bluff as it is locally known) is perhaps the most European of all the settlements in the country. Called Campbelltown until 1917, the city was officially renamed after the 265 meter conical hill that towers above it. One of the farthest corners of the British Empire, the inaugural Royal Tour of New Zealand by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, concluded at Bluff in January 1954. Nowadays however, it is the Bluff oysters that are the stars of the show. Reputed to be the best in the world, these local heroes are what have really put Bluff on the map and are celebrated every May with a lively festival honouring Ostrea chilensis (that’s Latin for Bluff oyster). But gastronomy aside (and it is mostly oyster related), Bluff offers the adventurous traveller much in the way activity. Gateway to Stewart Island, day trippers here might enjoy hopping on the ferry for the hour long trip to Stewart Island, or New Zealand’s third island. Unspoilt, tranquil and stunning, Stewart Island is a showcase for New Zealand’s undiscovered tourism spots due to its privileged (yet remote) position in the world. However, for those who wish to stay on the mainland, the Bluff Maritime Museum is a “must visit” for anyone travelling along the Southern Scenic Route, with fascinating historical information about the many early shipwrecks in these challenging southern waters and coastlines. The comprehensive network of walking tracks will delight the ornithologists amongst you – just don’t forget your binoculars!

Day 27 - Dunedin, New Zealand

Arrive: Wed 15 January 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 15 January 2025 at 19:00

The south-easterly coast of New Zealand's wild southern island is a haven for outdoor adventures, with masses of raw scenic beauty and thrilling coastline. Heading the Otago Harbour, Dunedin is a cosmopolitan city of culture and architectural splendour, with a distinctly tartan flare. Settled by the Scots in 1848, the romantically misty valleys and moody landscapes, continue to capture the hearts of visitors to these distant shores. Searing bagpipes echo down the streets in the Edinburgh of the South, which wears its Scottish origins proudly. Gothic revival architecture is scattered liberally, including the magnificent university - with its glorious clocktower - and the city's grand cathedral. Head to the elegant Octagon to see the statue to Robert Burns, whose nephew was a city founder. The railway station is perhaps the pick of this city's many artistic structures. Its glowing gardens and pretty mosaics add extra detail to the elegant, gingerbread building. It's also the perfect jumping-off point for romantic rail adventures along the coastline. The melodramatic coastline of the Otago Peninsula boasts dramatic cliffs and sea-sprayed beaches, as well as an abundance of animals. Explore cliffs laced with tunnels and hidden walkways, to get you up close and personal with Yellow-eyed penguins. Sea lions and seals also sprawl out on windswept beaches, drifting in and out of indulgent dozes. The south island's second-largest city regularly receives a top-up of youthful energy thanks to its healthy student population. Not that Dunedin is lacking a distinctly quirky personality of its own, as showcased by the event where locals race thousands of chocolate orbs down the world's steepest street - Baldwin Street. Museums in the city tell of Chinese influences, as well as the stories of early Maori settlers. Round off an active day sampling a South Island institution - an icy beer from Speight's Brewery.

Day 28 - Timaru

Arrive: Thu 16 January 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 16 January 2025 at 20:00

Named by the Maoris as Te Maru – which translates as 'Place of Shelter' - you're guaranteed a warm and refreshing welcome here. The location means Timaru has understandably been adopted as something of a pitstop for road trips by many but with charming Edwardian architecture a lively port and prime fishing opportunities - there is a lot to keep you hooked. Beachside charm awaits at Caroline Bay while birds tweet and chatter in the botanical gardens where pink and purple petalled flowers unfold.

Day 29 - At Sea

Day 30 - Wellington

Arrive: Sat 18 January 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sat 18 January 2025 at 17:00

Sprawling around a hook-shaped peninsula, Wellington is a vibrant and energetic seaside capital. A compact, well-stocked city of buzzing bars and chatting cafes, New Zealand's capital is a bright and breezy place with an infectious, easy-going atmosphere. Known as the creative hub of the South Pacific, there are shows to see, art installations to enjoy, and rich flavours to savour here. The sounds of rare and beautiful birdlife fill the hills around the city, and the bush of the green belt provides easy-to-access sanctuary, strolls and cycle rides. View less The Botanical Gardens break up the buildings, even more, while an iconic, cherry-red cable car rumbles up Wellington's slope to the city's best viewpoint, looking out over the city's scenic harbour from above. Zealandia has provided an urban home for rare and endangered birdlife, bringing many species back from the brink. Varied museums cover everything from Maori traditions to earthquake simulations and even the real-life Kraken - a displayed colossal squid. Wellington is only New Zealand's third-biggest city, but spend some time here and you'll realise that's a blessing. Eminently strollable, you can stop in at countless cool cafes to top up your caffeine levels whenever your energy is flagging - the smell of a fresh artisan espresso is never far away. The wines grown nearby are revered, and the city's craft beers are also making waves. Wander the breezy waterfront, and admire the surfers riding the wind-whipped rollers of the self-proclaimed 'coolest little capital in the world'.

Day 31 - Napier, New Zealand

Arrive: Sun 19 January 2025 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 19 January 2025 at 22:00

Napier, with its pleasant Mediterranean climate and famous art deco architecture, is a charming and lively seaside resort located on the eastern side of North Island.

Day 32 - At Sea

Day 33 - Auckland

Arrive: Tue 21 January 2025 at 07:00 / Depart: Tue 21 January 2025

Blending beachy recreation with all the delights of a modern, diverse and thoroughly multicultural city, Auckland sits on the lucid blue-green waters of New Zealand’s north island. Known as the ‘City of Sails’, its two harbours will tempt you with waterfront walks, and the chance to breathe fresh sea air deep into your lungs while absorbing spectacular views of Auckland’s grand harbour bridge’s span. Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 metres to the Sky Tower, and looking out over the city’s gleaming silver towers, which reflect on the abundant waters below. Views over the bay and adjacent islands await, and you can share elegant cocktails at this dizzying height, above the mingling yachts of Viaduct Harbour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area at Auckland Art Gallery, Toi o T?maki. Set beside tranquil fountains and handsomely landscaped flowerbeds of Albert Park, the French-Renaissance building houses New Zealand’s most extensive art collection, and exhibits works from M?ori and Pacific artists. New Zealand is world-renowned for its captivating natural scenery, and day trips across the sparkling bays, to nearby islands like Waiheke, Tiritiri Matangi, and Rangitoto, are always tempting. Discover lava caves, grape-laden vineyards and flourishing wildlife in the Hauraki Gulf’s islands. You’ll also find an exceptional 360-degree panorama over the city, to the horizon beyond, from the heights of ancient Mount Eden. The spectacular dormant volcano rises improbably from a city suburb, and also lends its name to Eden Park – the unusual, translucent stadium of New Zealand’s mighty All Blacks.