Trip Overview

On this expedition, you'll explore the sunken valleys and towering mountains of Fiordland; the scenic playground of Marlborough Sounds; the iconic wildlife havens of Stewart Island and nearby predator-free Ulva Island; and the many iconic Kiwi towns along the way including the French-infused village of Akaroa. The Heritage Adventurer is built for exploring New Zealand's intricate coast, navigating through the fiords, cruising up harbors, and allowing for Zodiac excursions to remote isolated bays and hidden gems. This in-depth exploration starts in Queenstown and ends in Auckland.

Trip Highlights

• Cruise along New Zealand's scenic coast and explore its three main islands including Stewart Island, a haven of wildlife
• Enjoy wildlife encounters including dolphins, whales, an albatross colony, and rare endemic bird species
• Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of Fiordlands, with its towering mountains and alpine lakes, and Marlborough Sounds, a beautiful labyrinth of waterways
• Explore the geothermal heartland of Rotorua, with its steam vents, geysers, and bubbling mud pools

Itinerary

Day 1: Queenstown

Arrive in Queenstown and make your way to the designated hotel where you will spend the first night of the expedition. This evening there will be an informal get-together at the hotel for dinner; an excellent opportunity to meet fellow adventurers on your voyage and some of the expedition team.

Day 2: Queenstown / Embark

The morning is free to explore Queenstown before returning to the hotel for lunch. Depart for the Port of Bluff to embark your ship. You will have time to settle into your cabin and familiarize yourself with the ship. You are invited to join the expedition team in the Observation Lounge and up on the Observation Deck as the ship sets a course to Fiordland and the adventure begins.

Days 3-4: Fiordland

Two days to explore the incredible wilderness of fiords in the southwest corner of the South Island. This is an area rich in history, majestic scenery, and abundant in wildlife. Fiordland was well known to local Maori, with the demi-god Tuteraki-whanoa being said to have used his adze, Te Hamo, to carve out the region's fiords. Captain Cook and his crew landed here on HMS Resolution in 1773; they were the first Europeans to visit Fiordland, subsequently 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. Waterfalls, streams, rivers, and fiords are enveloped with misty veils that come and go, revealing steep gradients of mountain peaks and sheltered valleys. A rugged terrain, the thickly forested floors are covered with ferns, lichens, and mosses. Bottlenose dolphins, Fiordland crested penguins, and little blue penguins are all residents of the fiords; during your time here you will look out for them.The time in Fiordland includes Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound and Acheron Passage, Astronomer's Point, and Pickersgill Harbour. In Dusky Sound there will be the opportunity to experience an unforgettable helicopter flight through the Sound, swooping down alongside Cooper Island and Cook Channel with a landing on Mt. Pender, where spectacular vistas across constellations of islands stretching into the horizon and dotting the winding fiords can be enjoyed.

Day 5: Stewart Island

New Zealand's third island is well off the usual beaten tourist track. It is a wonderfully tranquil place; the scenery of untouched bushland is stunning. Enjoy a morning exploring Ulva Island, which is rich in history and wildlife, being a predator-free island from 1997; the bird song and wildlife is some of the best. In Paterson Inlet you will have time to explore the sandy beaches of Boulder Bay and West End Beach or just enjoy some time around Post Office Bay and Sydney Cove. Some of the wildlife you may get to see while walking the tracks on Ulva Island include Stewart Island robin, Stewart Island weka, South Island kaka, Kereru (wood pigeon), Mohua (yellowhead), red-crowned parakeet, fantail, bellbird, and tui. During the time in Paterson Inlet there will also be the opportunity to explore the quirky town center of Oban in Halfmoon Bay, where a drink with a view can be enjoyed at the iconic South Sea Hotel, and there are some beautiful walks in the surrounding forests.

Day 6: Dunedin

Sail into beautiful Otago Harbour, watching closely for northern Royal albatross at the Tairoa Head Albatross Colony. From our berth at Port Chalmers, explore the famed, fashion-forward city of Dunedin, the Edinburgh of the south and the gateway to Otago. Explore the scenic Otago Peninsula where sea lions rest and yellow-eyed penguins can be spotted in one of their last strongholds where the beautiful farmed hills roll down towards white-sand beaches.

Day 7: Akaroa

The ship makes her way through the Akaroa heads and anchors in the sheltered waters off Canterbury's largest harbor. It was here, beneath the eroded volcanic hills of Banks Peninsula, that the French attempted to settle in 1840. The French connection remains to this day with a certain je ne sais quoi imbibing the township of Akaroa. This afternoon visit the Barry's Bay Cheese Factory and French Farm Vineyard at the head of the harbor as well as enjoy the opportunity to explore Akaroa or take one of the local nature walks.

Day 8: Wellington

New Zealand's "coolest little capital," Wellington, is an exceptional natural harbor. The ship will dock in the center of the action from where you can easily explore the vibrant city on foot. Visit the cable car, explore the world renowned Zealandia nature reserve, discover the Botanic Gardens, and visit Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum.

Day 9: Nelson / Abel Tasman National Park

The spiritual home of Heritage Expeditions and one of the best, yet seldom-visited ports of New Zealand, join your naturalists to discover the incredibly beautiful coastal scenery of the Abel Tasman National Park or take the opportunity to discover the region's culinary delights, artisan crafts, and world-class wines. (Please note: the 2026 voyage departing March 3 does not visit Nelson.)

Day 10: Marlborough Sounds

The Heritage Adventurer sails into the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds, a beautiful labyrinth of waterways intersecting the northern shores of the South Island. Take the opportunity to explore a coastal trail through the lush regenerating forest and watch for native birds including saddleback, parakeets, and robins on one of the island nature reserves.

Day 11: Napier

The Art Deco capital of New Zealand, and possibly the world, the post-quake city of Napier lies at the heart of thriving Hawkes Bay. Immerse yourself in the Art Deco world of central Napier with its quaint shops and unrivaled architecture before venturing to the world-renowned wineries of Hawkes Bay, famed for their exceptional Syrah and Chardonnay vintages. Alternatively, join your naturalists on a visit to the exceptional Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony. (Please note: the 2026 voyage departing March 3 does not visit Napier.)

Days 12-13: At Sea / Tauranga / Rotorua

After a day at sea, arrive in Tauranga. Drive inland, passing the rich horticultural region of the Bay of Plenty as you travel to the geothermal heartland of Rotorua. Marvel at the abundance of steam vents, geysers, and bubbling mud pools as you explore one of the most geologically active regions on the planet, accompanied by expert local guides.

Day 14: Auckland

Arrives in Auckland, the City of Sails, where the cruise will berth in the central city waterfront. Following breakfast, disembark and head to the airport or continue your exploration of New Zealand. In case of unexpected delays we ask you not to book any onward travel until after midday today.