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Day by Day Summary and Map
Cruise Segment of Itinerary
Tuesday - Dec 31, 2024
Day 1
Dunedin, New Zealand
Depart: 18:00:00
Dunedin is New Zealand's oldest city and is often referred to as the Edinburgh of New Zealand. This city of the South wears its Scottish heritage with pride. The city contains some of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. The Silverpeaks hinterland to the North West provides a picturesque backdrop and the Otago Peninsula, which lies within the city boundaries, has internationally renowned wildlife reserves, including the only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross. ... Read More
Wednesday - Jan 1, 2025
Day 2
At Sea
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship's upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment. ... Read More
Thursday - Jan 2, 2025
Day 3
Dusky Sound, New Zealand
Dusky Sound is one of the most isolated fjords in Fiordland National Park. This huge protected natural zone situated in the south-west quarter of New Zealand's South Island is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sheer cliffs, waterfalls, shimmering lakes, and primitive forests here are each more beautiful than the next. These spectacular landscapes sculpted by successive glaciations are a source of endless wonder. In 1773, the British navigator James Cook spent a few weeks at Dusky Sound, as demonstrated by a plaque that can be seen at Astronomer's Point. During your sailing, observe the richness of the local wildlife: cormorants, seagulls, New Zealand fur seals, but also Fiordland crested penguins, a rare and endemic species. ... Read More
Cruising Doubtful Sound
Referred to as the Sound of Silence, there is a secluded serenity that surrounds Doubtful Sound in contrast with the better-known Milford Sound. Lieutenant James Cook named 'Doubtful Harbour' in 1770 as he was uncertain if it was navigable under sail. Doubtful Sound is the deepest of the fiords with a maximum depth of 421 m. It contains three distinct 'arms' and several outstanding waterfalls in the area from Deep Cove to the open ocean. Your ship will spend time navigating around Secretary Island through both Thompson and Doubtful Sounds. You will enjoy the spectacular scenery from the outer decks. ... Read More
Friday - Jan 3, 2025
Day 4
Milford Sound, New Zealand
Milford Sound fjord is among one of the most beautiful natural sites in New Zealand. So much beauty will quite simply take your breath away. Located on the south-west coast of South Island in the Fiordland National Park, this sumptuous inlet carved out by glaciers advances over at least 15 kilometres inland in the Southern Alps. Majestic cliffs seem to surge out of the dark waters, rising several hundred metres high: an abrupt relief from where impressive waterfalls cascade. ... Read More
Saturday - Jan 4, 2025
Day 5
Oban, New Zealand
On Stewart Island, in New Zealand's deep south, Oban can be found nestling in Halfmoon Bay. This location earned it its Gaelic name meaning 'the little bay' and reflecting its Scottish influences. This town, mainly known for its fishing and tourism, is also a wonderful spot for birdwatching. Hike along the trails or take a cruise to discover the exceptional birdlife. This place will delight both adventurers who love to explore and travelers looking to spend some time relaxing on the beach. ... Read More
Sunday - Jan 5, 2025
Day 6
At Sea
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship's upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment. ... Read More
Monday - Jan 6, 2025
Day 7
Akaroa, New Zealand
Located at the tip of a peninsula on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, Akaroa is a popular resort destination, nestled in a cove formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. In the mid-19th century, French and British settlers competed for control of the area, and the architecture of the present-day town reflects these colonial influences in the galleries, craft shops, and cafes that line its streets. But what draws most people to this remote area is the abundant wildlife. Hector dolphins (the world's smallest), blue penguins, fur seals, and orcas populate the waters of the harbor, and the cliffs that surround the bay are nesting sites for thousands of birds. ... Read More
Tuesday - Jan 7, 2025
Day 8
Kaikoura, New Zealand
Located on the South Island of New Zealand, the small town of Kaikoura stretches between the South Pacific and the snow-capped Kaikoura mountain chain, in the heart of a natural and preserved environment that is home to rich and varied wildlife. The peninsula has spectacular limestone formations, and many marine mammals, such as whales, dolphins, seals, and sea lions, as well as sea birds can be found near its shores. Initially populated by the original Maori inhabitants for almost a thousand years, the rocky coastlines of Kaikoura then served as an observation post for whalers between the 18th century and the beginning of the 20th century. ... Read More
Wednesday - Jan 8, 2025
Day 9
Wellington, New Zealand
Crowned with gentle green hills, Wellington Harbour is located in the far south of the North Island. This city offers a charming mix of traditional and modern cultures, bestowing on the New Zealand capital a unique atmosphere, both friendly and avant-garde. Where some sites, like the large national Te Papa Tongarewa museum, reflect the city's Maori past, others, like the many cafes and restaurants, affirm the inhabitants' incredible lust for life. ... Read More
Thursday - Jan 9, 2025
Day 10
Picton, New Zealand
A must-see entry point to the South Island, Picton is a little coastal town surrounded by gentle hills, located on the south side of the Queen Charlotte Sound. The cafes and restaurants that border the charming waterfront give a very lovely view of the fjord. You can also decide to get some height above sea level, and walk in the surrounding areas. However, Picton is above all an opportunity to explore the unique Marlborough Sounds. This interweaving of submerged valleys in this area has creating numerous navigable routes, which are among the most beautiful natural wonders of New Zealand. ... Read More
Friday - Jan 10, 2025
Day 11
Napier, New Zealand
On the east coast of the North Island, south of Hawke's Bay, you'll find Napier. Mostly destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, reviving from its ruins in less than two years, it grew into a magnificent Art Deco style city, very in-vogue at the time. With its pure lines mixed with traditional Maori designs, the singular New Zealand character of this city will intrigue you. You'll discover all this extraordinary architectural heritage as you take a stroll through the city. Famous for its vineyards, wine lovers will be able to taste some of the best wines from the region. ... Read More
Saturday - Jan 11, 2025
Day 12
At Sea
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship's upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment. ... Read More
Sunday - Jan 12, 2025
Day 13
Tauranga, New Zealand
Bus Travel
Rotorua, New Zealand
Bus Travel
Tauranga, New Zealand
Located to the north of Rotorua, Tauranga stretches the length of the Bay of Plenty, sheltered from the ocean by the island of Matakana. This coastal city boasts a flourishing economy thanks to its port, and is a pleasant and pretty town with a peaceful, relaxed feel. The seafront area is contemporary and lively, dotted with cafes and restaurants. The town centre reveals more picturesque charms, while the surrounding area is packed full of natural delights. Travel on to the town of Rotorua to visit the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland: a fantastic opportunity to experience an absolutely exceptional geothermal phenomenon. ... Read More
Monday - Jan 13, 2025
Day 14
Waiheke Island, New Zealand
In the Hauraki Gulf, Waiheke Island is a pristine natural gem just 35 minutes from the city of Auckland on the North Island of New Zealand. The stunning beaches of its languid bays and the undulating landscapes forming the heart of the island perfectly illustrate the easy way of life here. This land surrounded by sea and bathed in light enjoys a mild climate that is conducive to a thriving agriculture, composed mainly of olive groves and vineyards. Somewhat reminiscent of Tuscany, the island is renowned for its wines. Here, Bordeaux grape varieties have found the ideal conditions for developing a rich palette of aromas. A symbol of New Zealand's easy lifestyle, Waiheke also boasts a rich arts scene. ... Read More
Tuesday - Jan 14, 2025
Day 15
Bay of Islands, New Zealand
The Bay of Islands is truly a natural paradise, a jewel hidden in the South Pacific. Its deep-blue waters caress the beaches of golden sand as lush islands with verdant peaks emerge from the sea to form captivating scenery. It was here that in 1840 the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document, was signed between representatives of the British Crown and a number of Maori chiefs from the northern part of the North Island. ... Read More
Wednesday - Jan 15, 2025
Day 16
Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is New Zealand's largest, most populated and busiest city. Located on an isthmus linking the peninsula of Northland to the expansive North Island, it seems to float between land and sea. It is one of the few cities in the world to have two separate harbours: Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea and Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean. You will understand why Auckland is known as "the City of Sails" when you see the forest of masts in the marina. The 1075-foot-high Sky Tower offers splendid views of the city. Surrounded by dormant volcanoes such as Mount Eden, Auckland is noted for its abundant nature and magnificent black-sand beaches. A blend of Maori, European, and Asian cultures give the city a vibrant atmosphere. ... Read More
Cruise and Land Value Offers that combine with this sailing.
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.