INTRODUCTION Join us on this 17-day adventure discovering Macquarie Island, Australia s Sub-Antarctic jewel and visit the New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands, described by the United Nations Environment Programme as the most diverse and extensive of all Sub-Antarctic archipelagos ; all five-island groups were honoured with World Heritage status in 1998. Experience the thrilling diversity of New Zealand s landscapes, wildlife and culture. On this journey, become acquainted with the fascinating customs of the MÄori, and glimpse everything from seals and dolphins to rare penguins species. Sample the renowned Sauvignon Blanc in the bucolic vineyards of Nelson, and float past white-capped peaks, waterfalls and palm trees in Milford Sound. ITINERARY DAY 1: Dunedin, New Zealand Embark Silver Discoverer for your exciting Silversea Expedition Wild New Zealand. After settling in and attending a safety briefing, you will be introduced to your Expedition Team. Tonight we invite you to familiarise yourself with your new home away from home, meet some of your fellow travellers and enjoy the first of many memorable meals in The Restaurant.
DAY 2: Dunedin, New Zealand This morning we continue in Dunedin, to explore the town and the Otago Peninsula. One of Dunedin s landmarks is its Railway Station, a superb example of Victorian architecture and you will have an opportunity to enjoy a trainjourney into the Taiaeri Gorge that is sure to be a highlight of your visit to New Zealand. The special train will leave from the pier, pass through suburban Dunedin and head for the Taieri plains before heading into the Taiaeri River Gorge. The railroad was built by early pioneers and passes through some of New Zealand s most rugged terrain. Morning tea and snacks will be served aboard the train, while you can enjoy one panorama after other, passing through rock tunnels and marvelling at dramatic bridges suspended high above the Taieri River. If you are more interested in wildlife, you can partake in a cross-country tour in an 8-wheel drive all-terrain vehicle, heading out to the Otago Peninsula. During this excursion you will be able to observe New Zealand Fur Seals, go past Spotted Shags colonies to see amidst spectacular scenery the world s rarest penguins: the Yellow-eyed and Little Blue Penguins. The beach area where these penguins can be found has specially designed walkways and hides, giving them and you an undisturbed viewing opportunity. DAY 3: Ulva Island & Stewart Island, New Zealand Ulva Island delivers a wonderful natural history encounter free of any invasive species. You ll enjoy a spectacular walk while marvelling at the endemic plants and birdlife. Today, our natural history walks will go in search of endemic plants and birdlife in this world-renowned open bird sanctuary. During the afternoon we will visit Oban, the only town on Steward Island. You will have time to gain an insight into New Zealand s outhernmost community. The little town itself offers nice walks and an assortment of small hotels, restaurants and the odd gallery you can explore Oban and the surrounding bays at your own pace with walks along the coast or towards lookout points or in one of the few modern coaches on the island. Local guides will enjoy sharing their knowledge and you will have time for photo stops and short walks.
DAY 4: At Sea A leisurely day at sea is yours to enjoy. Begin perhaps with a late breakfast and another cup of coffee or tea during the first of the day s lectures. Join the lectures and hear fascinating tales of adventure. Learn more about the region s endemic wildlife and remarkable nature. Our knowledgeable Lecture Staff members are experts in a variety of scientific fields. DAY 5: Campbell Island, New Zealand, Sub- Antarctic Island Campbell Island is about 700 kilometres southeast of the South Island, and is New Zealand s southernmost sovereign territory. High and rugged in the south (up to 1,867 feet), it slopes off more gently to the north where smoothed ridges and open valleys suggest considerable recent glaciation. Farmed since 1894, Campbell Island was used for sealing and whaling, wartime coastal defence, and meteorological observation. Becoming a nature reserve in 1954, it is now an uninhabited and World Heritage site administered by the Department of Conservation. DAY 6: At Sea Enjoy a relaxing day at sea. Perhaps you ll join a lecture, reflect on your travels thus far or meet with new friends and share your stories. Whatever you find on your personal agenda, know that our personable staff is at the ready to serve you.
DAY 7: Macquarie Island, Australia, Sub-Antarctic Islands Accidentally discovered by the Australian/Briton Frederick Hasselborough on 11 July 1810, Macquarie Island lies in the southwest corner of the Pacific Ocean, about halfway between New Zealand and. Macquarie Island, known as Australia s Sub-Antarctic jewel, is home to a large variety of wildlife, including thousands of seals and millions of penguins, and has been designated a World Heritage Site. Since 1948 the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) has maintained a permanent base, the Macquarie Island Station, on the isthmus at the northern end of the island at the foot of Wireless Hill. The population of the base, the island s only human inhabitants, usually varies from 20 to 40 people over the year. The island has an approximate length of 34 km (21 mi) and a width of 5 km (3 mi), with an area of 128 km 2 (49 sq. mi). Weather and tides will play heavily on the decisions made by the Captain and Expedition Leader to make the most of our two days visiting the island. We hope to visit a King Penguin colony of more than 200,000 pairs, and see colonies of Rockhopper, Royal and Gentoo Penguins. In addition we hope to see some of the 72 species of birds including the Wandering, Black-browed, Grey-headed and Light-mantled Sooty Albatross. Not forgetting the several types of seals such as the elephant, leopard and fur seals that can be found on the island. Two days might just not be enough DAY 9: At sea, cruising the South Pacific Ocean Leaving Australia behind us we once again are about to enter New Zealand waters. Our birders will want to know more about the endemics or rare birds still to come, but our marine biologist would also like to have you attend his lecture. The day will be used to recapture moments of islands visited and prepare you for the new things to come.
DAY 10: Enderby & Auckland, New Zealand, Sub- Antarctic. Enderby Island is perched on the Campbell Plateau and is composed of eroding volcanic remains, much like the main Auckland Island whose volcanic remains are thought to have come from eruptions that occurred between 25 and 10 million years ago. Under New Zealand s ecological management, which included the removal of all introduced mammals, the rata forests are regenerating and there is a resurgence of herbaceous plants. Enderby Island is also home to the rare Yellow-Eyed Penguin, New Zealand Bellbirds and Red-Crowned Parakeets, as well as Southern Royal Albatross that nest on the plateau. Auckland Island has an abundance and diversity of seabirds namely, Gibson s Albatross and White- Capped Mollymawks. It is also the primary breeding ground for the most rare and endangered sea lions in the world, the New Zealand (Hooker) sea lion, and the breeding ground for 30% of the world s population of the Yellow-Eyed Penguin. DAY 11: The Snares, New Zealand The Snares is a small island group at approximately 200 kilometres south of New Zealand s South Island and covers a total of approximately 3.5 square kilometres. Unlike other Sub-Antarctic islands that were greatly affected by the whaling and sealing industry in the nineteenth-century, The Snares remains one of the last near pristine areas in New Zealand. Using the fleet of Zodiacs on board Silver Discoverer we go in search of some endemic bird species such as the Snares Crested Penguin, the Snares Island Snipe, the Snares Fernbird and the Snares Black Tomtit, as well as several endemic invertebrates.
DAY 12: New Zealand Fiordland National Park Fiordland National Park is a World Heritage Site and includes Milford, Doubtful and Dusky Sounds. We will take two days to explore this exceptional National Park. First we will explore Dusky Sound. While seals and dolphins are often sighted in these waters, you may be witness to the occasional visiting whale. However, keep your eye on land as well, as this is a prime-breeding site for the Fiordland Penguins. Captain Cook already visited this area in 1770 and gave it the name Dusky Bay. An observatory and workshops were established at land and still today names of his activities remain. A short walkway exists at Pickersgill Harbour, permitting you to be at the exact spot where his ship Resolution had been moored. Tucked away in the Fiordland National Park, you ll immerse yourself in the breath-taking views of Milford Sound (Piopiotahi in Māori) during your second day here. The majestic carved peaks and dramatic waterfalls will leave you in awe as you marvel at the striking figure that is Mitre Peak. Using Zodiacs and the ship to explore, your Captain and Expeditions Leader will work together to create the perfect schedule for your day. DAY 14: At Sea Enjoy a relaxing day at sea. Perhaps you ll join a lecture, reflect on your travels thus far or meet with new friends and share your stories. Whatever you find on your personal agenda, know that our personable staff is at the ready to serve you.
DAY 15: Adele Island and Nelson, New Zealand Adele Island is a small island within the Abel Tasman National Park. Strikingly beautiful this island is predator free. It therefore is home to many native New Zealand birds and the west side of the island has some great beaches which shift with the tide. With rapidly growing numbers of native birds, the bird chorus is like the birdsong early explorers heard. Pending permission we will use our Zodiacs for a cruise or even a landing, hopefully offering a walk, looking and listening for birds. Our expedition continues to New Zealand s sunshine capital, Nelson, located at the top of the South Island. Nelson is home to three national parks and a smorgasbord of activities to suit all walks of life, and today we discover one of New Zealand s best products: New Zealand Wine. The Nelson area is one of New Zealand s sunniest regions and clear skies allow for very cool nights, which result in an expressive flavour development in the fruit and a solid structure of fruit acid. We travel to Neudorf Winery situated in the Upper Moutere Valley of Nelson; Neudorf Winery was established by Tim and Judy Finn in 1978 and is credited with producing one of New Zealand s best Chardonnays. It also has an international reputation for the quality of its other Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Gris wines. We also visit the historic Upper Moutere village situated amongst picturesque hills, and this is where we find the small family owned boutique vineyard of Moutere Hills. Your wine experience continues with a visit to Seifried Estate. Seifried Wines is the biggest and one of the oldest established wine producers in the Nelson region. Hermann and Agnes Seifried established their first vineyard in 1973 in the Moutere Valley. The original winery has since been outgrown, and Seifried is now located in the district of Redwood. Main varieties grown include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. We return to Silver Discoverer at the end of a relaxing day full of memories of New Zealand s wine country.
DAY 16: Kaikoura, New Zealand Step into the rich culture of the Māori as you learn their history in the Kaikoura area from the Tangata Whenua, the people of the land. You ll have the opportunity to experience the uniqueness of being Māori in their modern day world, while discovering how their past has helped them cultivate a fundamental relationship with the environment. Visit the fortified villages of pre-european days known as the Pa sites. Hear how they were settled by their ancestors often in battle and see the stories the land still tells today. Be guided into one of the indigenous forest walkways to learn about the trees and plants, and their traditional uses as food and medicine. Participate in customs while learning Māori Protocol and key values. Learn a waiata a song that holds within its words the key philosophy of Māori. During this tour guests will partake in light refreshments and receive a small memento to remember this wonderful cultural experience by. DAY 17: Lyttleton, New Zealand Following breakfast, disembark Silver Discoverer. INCLUSIONS & DETAILS Accommodation Inclusions Difficulty Rating Standard Personalized service the best crew-to-guest ratio in expedition cruising Butler service in every suite and stateroom all guests are pampered equally Open-seating dining options dine when and with whomever you please Beverages in-suite and throughout the ship select wines, premium spirits, specialty coffees and soft drinks, plus your own tailored mini-bar In-suite dining and room service available 24 hours aboard Silver Explorer, and from 06:00 to 23:00 aboard Silver Galapagos and Silver Discoverer Enrichment lectures by a highly qualified Expeditions Team Guided Zodiac, land and sea tours, and shoreside activities led by the Expeditions Team Gratuities always included in your fare Free WiFi throughout the ship 2 (light adventure)
Single Surcharge Available upon request Notes Price Dependent upon Please note that itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions. Contact us for more details Season and availability SUSTAINABILITY GUIDANCE FOR VISITORS TO THE ANTARCTIC RECOMMENDATION XVIII-1, ADOPTED AT THE ANTARCTIC TREATY MEETING, KYOTO, 1994 Activities in the Antarctic are governed by the Antarctic Treaty of 1959 and associated agreements, referred to collectively as the Antarctic Treaty System. The Treaty established as a zone of peace and science. In 1991, the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Parties adopted the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty, which designates the Antarctic as a natural reserve. The Protocol sets out environmental principles, procedures and obligations for the comprehensive protection of the Antarctic environment, and its dependent and associated ecosystems. The Consultative Parties have agreed that as far as possible and in accordance with their legal system, the provisions of the Protocol should be applied as appropriate. The Environmental Protocol was ratified in January 1998. The Environmental Protocol applies to tourism and non-governmental activities, as well as governmental activities in the Antarctic Treaty Area. It is intended to ensure that these activities, do not have adverse impacts on the Antarctic environment, or on its scientific and aesthetic values. This Guidance for Visitors to the Antarctic is intended to ensure that all visitors are aware of, and are therefore able to comply with, the Treaty and the Protocol. Visitors are, of course, bound by national laws and regulations applicable to activities in the Antarctic. PROTECT ANTARCTIC WILDLIFE Taking or harmful interference with Antarctic wildlife is prohibited except in accordance with a permit issued by a national authority. Do not use aircraft, vessels, small boats, or other means of transport in ways that disturb wildlife, either at sea or on land. Do not feed, touch, or handle birds or seals, or approach or photograph them in ways that cause them to alter their behavior. Special care is needed when animals are breeding or molting. Do not damage plants, for example by walking, driving, or landing on extensive moss beds or lichen-covered scree slopes. Do not use guns or explosives. Keep noise to the minimum to avoid frightening wildlife. Do not bring non-native plants or animals into the Antarctic, such as live poultry, pet dogs and cats, or house plants.
RESPECT PROTECTED AREAS A variety of areas in the Antarctic have been afforded special protection because of their particular ecological, scientific, historic, or other values. Entry into certain areas may be prohibited except in accordance with a permit issued by an appropriate national authority. Activities in and near designated Historic Sites and Monuments and certain other areas may be subject to special restrictions. Know the locations of areas that have been afforded special protection and any restrictions regarding entry and activities that can be carried out in and near them. Observe applicable restrictions. Do not damage, remove, or destroy Historic Sites or Monuments or any artifacts associated with them. RESPECT SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH Do not interfere with scientific research, facilities or equipment. Obtain permission before visiting Antarctic science and support facilities; reconfirm arrangements 24-72 hours before arrival; and comply with the rules regarding such visits. Do not interfere with, or remove, scientific equipment or marker posts, and do not disturb experimental study sites, field camps, or supplies. BE SAFE Be prepared for severe and changeable weather and ensure that your equipment and clothing meet Antarctic standards. Remember that the Antarctic environment is inhospitable, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous. Know your capabilities and the dangers posed by the Antarctic environment, and act accordingly. Plan activities with safety in mind at all times. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife, both on land and at sea. Take note of, and act on, the advice and instructions from your leaders; do not stray from your group. Do not walk onto glaciers or large snow fields without the proper equipment and experience; there is a real danger of falling into hidden crevasses. Do not expect a rescue service. Self-sufficiency is increased and risks reduced by sound planning, quality equipment, and trained personnel. Do not enter emergency refuges (except in emergencies). If you use equipment or food from a refuge, inform the nearest research station or national authority once the emergency is over. Respect any smoking restrictions, particularly around buildings, and take great care to safeguard against the danger of fire. This is a real hazard in the dry environment of. KEEP ANTARCTICA PRISTINE remains relatively pristine, the largest wilderness area on Earth. It has not yet been subjected to large-scale human perturbations. Please keep it that way. Do not dispose of litter or garbage on land. Open burning is prohibited. Do not disturb or pollute lakes or streams. Any materials discarded at sea must be
disposed of properly. Do not paint or engrave names or graffiti on rocks or buildings. Do not collect or take away biological or geological specimens or man-made artifacts as a souvenir, including rocks, bones, eggs, fossils, and parts or contents of buildings. Do not deface or vandalize buildings or emergency refuges, whether occupied, abandoned, or unoccupied.