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Day by Day Summary and Map
Land Segment of Itinerary
Sunday - Feb 23, 2025
Day 1
Dunedin, New Zealand
Bus Travel
Cruise Segment of Itinerary
Day 1 - Sunday - Feb 23, 2025
Day 1
Cruise Begins
Port Chalmers, New Zealand
Port Chalmers is the port for the city of Dunedin, the oldest European settlement in New Zealand, which was founded in 1848. Sitting at the end of a long, fiord-like inlet off the south-eastern tip of the South Island, Dunedin is New Zealand's most Scottish town - in fact, Dunedin is the old Gaelic name for Edinburgh. Today, step onboard your 6-star, ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht and be warmly welcomed by the crew. Meet your personal butler and settle into your spacious suite. Meet your fellow guests over a glass of chilled Champagne in the Observation Lounge, toasting to the start of a wonderful journey. Please book your flight to arrive into Dunedin prior to 1 PM. Inclusions: Dinner. ... Read More
Monday - Feb 24, 2025
Day 2
Oban, New Zealand
Stewart Island sits 30 kilometers off the southern tip of the South Island. It is one of the last inhabited outposts before you reach Antarctica. Its only settlement, the tiny village of Oban, clings bravely to the northern shore. This is New Zealand off the grid, a remote place of spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. The island is a haven for many birds, including the cute and curious brown kiwi, who outnumber humans and are active day and night. The Maori name for Stewart Island is Rakiura, which means the land of glowing skies. Freechoice: Southern Coastal Wildlife Cruise: Board a 75-foot high-speed catamaran to explore beautiful Paterson Inlet, admiring Big Glory Bay, Kaipipi Bay, native forest, and rugged beaches. Ulva Island & Guided Walk: Explore Ulva Island wildlife sanctuary, known for its rare bird and plant species. You may even catch glimpses of the secretive kaka or weka. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Tuesday - Feb 25, 2025
Day 3
Milford Sound, New Zealand
The rugged West Coast of New Zealand's South Island offers some of the country's most stunning scenery. You'll cruise through Fiordland National Park, which covers more than 1.2 million hectares of granite peaks, shimmering lakes, deep black fjords, and spectacular waterfalls. Rudyard Kipling described Milford Sound as the 'eighth wonder of the world'. The best way to experience the sound is from the water and today Scenic Eclipse II will cruise slowly through this spectacular place, coming close to land so you can admire the waterfalls tumbling from 1,000-meter cliffs and look out for seals sunning themselves on the rocks. You may like to join your fellow guests on the Observation Terrace to watch the magic unfold over a cocktail. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Wednesday - Feb 26, 2025
Day 4
Cruising Doubtful Sound
Dusky Sound, New Zealand
Captain Cook named Doubtful Sound in 1770, because the entrance looked too small and so he chose not to sail in it. Over the centuries, it has kept its stunning beauty well-hidden and even today remains a place of serenity. Cruise close to craggy cliffs rising from the water, looking out for bottlenose dolphins and the Fiordland crested penguin. Continue south to Dusky Sound, one of the largest fjords in New Zealand, stretching for 40 kilometers. It's accessible only by air or sea, meaning very few tourists get to experience its majesty. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Thursday - Feb 27, 2025
Day 5
At Sea
Today perhaps you'd like to take things slowly, starting with breakfast brought to your suite by your butler, enjoyed on the verandah looking out over the ocean. Or you could start the day with an invigorating work out in the gym or a complimentary class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio. Take some time to explore the ship, from the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10 to the tranquil Senses Spa on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, plunge pool and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the eight bars and lounges onboard or curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions are happening in the state-of-the-art onboard theater and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife, or activities on offer. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Friday - Feb 28, 2025
Day 6
Akaroa, New Zealand
Arrive this morning at Akaroa, the only French settlement in New Zealand. Founded by French whalers in the 1840s, it retains its French street names, charming Gallic cottages, excellent cuisine, and plethora of cheese shops. Akaroa is also home to a sparkling harbor frequented by rare Hector's dolphins, a historic lighthouse and is surrounded by rippling green hillside. Back onboard, tonight could be the night you enjoy Sushi @ Koko's with your new friends. Stay up late in the bar or retire to the library for a moment of blissful solitude before bed. Freechoice: Canterbury Sheep Farm Experience: Get an insight into New Zealand's famous sheep industry. See shearing, sheep dogs, and typical farm life. Punting on the Avon & Wine: Take a leisurely cruise in a flat-bottomed boat along Christchurch's scenic Avon River. Then visit Melton Estate Winery for a tasting. Akaroa Harbour Wildlife Cruise: Discover the adorable and playful Hector's dolphins, found only in NZ waters (wildlife sightings not guaranteed). Akaroa Walking Tour: Enjoy a delightful 45-minute walking tour of Akaroa, strolling through the center of the town, up a local lookout and along the picturesque waterfront. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Saturday - Mar 1, 2025
Day 7
Kaikoura, New Zealand
You'll arrive in Kaikoura early this morning. This tiny town sits in a spectacular natural environment, flanked by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the snow-capped Seaward Kaikoura Range on the other. The town began life as a whaling station in the mid 1800s; visit the oldest surviving building, Fyffe House, or the Kaikoura Museum to learn more about its history. It's also an ideal place for wildlife encounters. Whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in these waters, and an impressive array of seabirds fill the air, including the mighty albatross. Freechoice: Kaikoura Whale Watch Cruise: Venture into the Pacific's depths for awe-inspiring encounters with magnificent sperm whales while expert guides share their insights. Albatross Encounter Cruise: Discover Kaikoura's renowned birdlife on a 2.5-hour tour. Guides will throw chum into the water to attract albatross and more. Kaikoura Sightseeing Overview: Explore Kaikoura's stunning seaside on a three-hour tour. Enjoy a bush walk, visit Ohau Stream and Ohau Point, and see a fur seal colony. Capture beautiful vistas at a dedicated photo stop. Kaikoura Coastal Panorama Walk: The half-day walking tour visits a main lookout with stunning mountain and ocean views, Fyffe House, and a seal colony. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Sunday - Mar 2, 2025
Day 8
Kaiteriteri, New Zealand
Nelson, New Zealand
Scenic Eclipse II will call at two ports in Tasman Bay today. Kaiteriteri is arguably New Zealand's most beautiful beach, a perfect arc of golden sand fronting startlingly blue water. It's also the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, a gorgeous coastal park known for its sea kayaking, walks, and wildlife. It's just a short cruise to the city of Nelson, one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand. It's bursting with open-air cafes, bustling markets, breweries, cycling trails, and the pretty Botanic Gardens. Enjoy a late departure tonight, giving you a chance to experience a little Kiwi hospitality after dark. Freechoice: Kaiteriteri Cruise & 3-hour Nature Walk: Cruise to Anchorage Beach in Abel Tasman National Park for a guided walk, learning about the park's wildlife and admiring coastal views. You'll be transferred by motorcoach to Nelson. Cruise & Beach Stop: Sail to Anchorage Beach in Abel Tasman National Park, meet your guide, enjoy bird songs, and trek to Pitt Head for coastal views. You'll be transferred by motorcoach to Nelson. Nelson Walking Tour: Join a guided walk-through historic Nelson, New Zealand's second oldest city and culture capital. Soak up the village atmosphere that makes it so popular. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Monday - Mar 3, 2025
Day 9
Picton, New Zealand
It's worth waking up early this morning so you can experience Marlborough Sounds. Ask the butler to bring you coffee to your suite so you can soak it in from your private verandah. Spend the morning in Picton, a picturesque town that looks almost tropical with its towering palm trees and clear turquoise water. Wander the pretty waterfront promenade, lined with shops, cafes, and galleries, or visit the museum inside the Edwin Fox convict ship dry docked offshore. Picton is a short drive from the famous Marlborough wine region, which produces around two-thirds of New Zealand's wine. Freechoice: Queen Charlotte Sounds Explorer: Cruise through the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound, enjoying commentary from your friendly guide, and explore Arapaoa Island, formerly a whaling base and now flourishing with aquaculture. Marlborough Sounds Link Pathway Walk: Follow the new Link Pathway on a guided walk. Admire views of Marlborough Sounds and Queen Charlotte Sound and look for native birds. Wines of Marlborough: Discover New Zealand's wine country on a scenic tour from Picton. Enjoy stunning views and a wine tasting in the Marlborough region. Seafood Odyssey: Cruise Queen Charlotte Sound, enjoying local delicacies and scenic views. Learn about the region's history and wildlife. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Tuesday - Mar 4, 2025
Day 10
Napier, New Zealand
Later this morning you'll arrive in Napier, and you'll feel as if you've stepped back almost 100 years. In 1931, the center of the town was razed by an earthquake and then rebuilt in the Art Deco style of the day. It retains all the charm and style of its heyday with the largest collection of authentic Art Deco buildings on Earth. Freechoice: Cape Kidnappers & Gannet Safari: Drive along Hawke's Bay coast to the gannet colony. See them dive into the sea and keep an eye out for newly hatched chicks. Hawkes Bay Express: Explore Napier on a modern road train traveling along Main Street, admiring early settler's homes, visiting the old port village, and hearing stories of the past. A Tale of Two Hawke's Bay Wineries: Enjoy a panoramic drive through Hawke's Bay coast, stopping at two award-winning wineries. Art Deco City Walking Tour: Discover Napier's Art Deco highlights, starting with a short film about the 1931 earthquake followed by a guided walking tour of the city center. Pinot and Pecorino: Departing from Napier, you'll journey to Craggy Range Sheep Dairy for a behind-the-scenes look at sheep milking, followed by a tasting of award-winning cheese paired with local wine. Enjoy breathtaking views and a scenic drive back. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Wednesday - Mar 5, 2025
Day 11
At Sea
Perhaps you'd like to visit the gym today for an invigorating workout or join a Pilates class, some guided stretching or aerial yoga. Alternatively, spend some time today relaxing in the Vitality thermal lounge, where you can explore Nordic bathing experiences, infra-red saunas, and chromo-therapy pressure showers. This afternoon, settle in at one of spacious bars and lounges across Scenic Eclipse II to enjoy your beverage of choice. There is an open-air bar on Deck 10 beside the Vitality Pool; it's the ideal place to relax with a cocktail. The Observation Lounge and Terrace occupies a commanding position at the bow of the ship on Deck 5 and is the perfect place for a specialty tea or coffee while reading a book, playing a board game, and watching the world float by through Swarovski telescopes. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ... Read More
Thursday - Mar 6, 2025
Day 12
Auckland, New Zealand
You'll finish your journey in the nation's largest city, Auckland. Home to around a third of the entire New Zealand population, Auckland is a stylish, cosmopolitan city set around two grand harbors. It's packed with fascinating museums, world-class art galleries, and stylish shops featuring local designers. Savor one last delightful breakfast onboard, reminiscing on the unforgettable moments shared during your journey. Bid farewell to your fellow guests and the Scenic Eclipse II crew, then disembark to continue your travels or begin your journey home. Please book your flight to depart out of Auckland after 12 PM. Inclusions: Breakfast.; Notes: Spa treatments at additional cost. All drinks onboard, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine, and vintage wines, Champagnes, and spirits. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. ... Read More
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Pricing Terms and Conditions
Unless otherwise indicated above, all cruise rates are per person, double occupancy, cruise-only without airfare, do not include government taxes and fees and quoted in in U.S. dollars. Ponant Cruises rates are based on foreign currencies that are converted to USD based on today's exchange rates. Rates are subject to availability, can vary by ship and sailing date, and for new bookings only. Fares are capacity controlled, and subject to change without notice. Port charges are included. Prices do not include additional service charges; Travel Insurance; and applicable government taxes & fees unless otherwise specified in the offer. Surcharges and fees implemented by a travel supplier, even after the reservation is made, will be the sole responsibility of each traveler and is due and payable in full prior to departure. Certain promotions which may include amenities like shipboard credits, pre-paid gratuities, drink packages or other packages may be available by category, room type or fare code and may not be combinable with other promotions. For any questions, please consult one of our cruise specialists for applicability and verification. All prices, inclusions & promotions listed on the web-site are current at the time they we published and are subject to change without advance notice. Arrivia, Inc., its subsidiaries, and partners are not responsible for last minute changes to price or itinerary by cruise lines, or for any errors or omissions in the content of this website.