NEW ZEALAND ISLAND CRUISING 2015/16 LUXURY ADVENTURE CRUISES 8-day / 7-night cruises Bay of Islands, Islands of Auckland or Milford Sound Fiordland National Park Here is an opportunity to explore New Zealand in the same way as you can on the small luxury cruise boats and barges of France. The Island Passage is a beautifully appointed small ship with a stunning interior. Built and equipped to travel to inaccessible areas she offers the highest level of passenger comfort with 12 spacious ensuite cabins, a large dining room/saloon lounge, a library, and generous outdoor living spaces. The Island Passage carries a landing craft, three large tenders, sea kayaks, a five-seat helicopter, fishing and snorkel equipment and for those looking for less strenuous activities, lazing in a deckchair is always an acceptable option. During each journey, our ten-person crew is on hand to share their knowledge of the ocean and local landscapes. For those interested in fishing, several levels are available during the cruises to suit everyone from the novice to the more experienced angler. In the galley, our two chefs work with the freshest local ingredients and delicacies to create memorable meals that reflect the day s adventures. The ship accommodates a maximum of 24 passengers, and departures are subject to a minimum number of 10 passengers. Cruise departures: Fiordland National Park 21, 28 February, 6, 13, 20, 27 March, 3, 10 April 2015 (departing from Queenstown) Bay of Islands: 15 December 2015, 9, 23 January, 6 February 2016 (departing from Auckland) 22, December 2015, 16, 30 January 2016 (departing from Paihia) Secrets of Auckland: 1, 8, 29 December 2015 (departing from Auckland) Costs per person from: All prices shown in New Zealand Dollars contact us for the Australian dollar rate Stateroom Cabin: Queen/Twin beds NZ$3650 Single occupancy supplement: on request. Ocean Suite: Queen/Twin beds NZ$4550 Bridge Deck Suite: King bed NZ$5550 Call OUTDOOR TRAVEL on 1800 331 582 for details or reservations
Included: 7-nights in quality hotels or onboard accommodation in air-conditioned cabins with ensuite bathrooms with towels (bath & beach), daily cabin cleaning; all onboard chef prepared meals, bottled water, juice, soft drinks & espresso coffee; expedition leaders, guided small boat excursions, guided small boat sport fishing trips, use of all fishing equipment (including lures & bait), snorkeling equipment & sea kayaks; all taxes and port charges. Not included: Alcohol (available from wine cellar & bar onboard), other meals, phones/internet use, and personal expenses. FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK 8-days / 7-nights cruising deep within the stunning World Heritage National Park Suggested itinerary: (Please note itinerary is subject to change due to weather/sea conditions) Day 1 SUNDAY Queenstown On Sunday we will be met at Queenstown Airport before being transferred to the luxury Heritage Hotel. We will then have plenty of time to fall in love with this beautiful alpine village. Day 2 MONDAY Te Anau to Caswell Sound After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, we will be collected at 10.00am by private coach for a gorgeous drive through stunning countryside to Lake Te Anau. Here we will find a selection of lakeside cafés that serve light lunches. From 2pm we will step aboard the helicopters for a sensational 20-minute scenic flight that will have us landing on the Island Passage heli-pad in the stunning fiords by mid-afternoon. After settling in and meeting the crew we have the option of going ashore with our guides to explore or simply relax while taking in the magnificent surroundings. Dinner will be served from 7pm in the interior dining room. Day 3 TUESDAY Caswell Sound Today we explore Caswell Sound where we can trace the remnants of US-NZ Scientific Expeditions where Wapiti deer were released into the area to breed with the NZ deer as game. Later in the afternoon, some fishing and shore excursions are planned with our guide so that we can explore this stunning region in intimate detail. Day 4 WEDNESDAY George Sound Cruising north we enter into George Sound where we have access to the beautiful Alice waterfalls. If we are keen for it, we have the option of taking a hike up to the lakes above the waterfalls. Anchorage Cove is another favourite with hot water springs begging to be enjoyed. We spend the night at the head of this fiord where, on clear evenings, the sky is full of stars with the top deck being the perfect viewing platform! Day 5 THURSDAY Bligh Sound Today we leave the wonders of George Sound and cruise north to Bligh Sound. This gorgeous fiord is positioned in the heart of this wilderness region. A very steep sided fiord with deep water provides a lovely anchorage at the head of the sound, we are lucky to anchor here amidst the breathtaking beauty. Trips ashore today with our guides allow us to explore and absorb the majesty of the place.
Day 6 FRIDAY Sutherland Sound Enjoy a relaxing cruise north along the coast where we call at Sutherland Sound and Poison Bay, so long as the weather is suitable of course. On our short sea passages we will have the opportunity to see many native sea birds like the albatross. We may even see dolphins or, on rare occasions, whales. From here we enter the magnificent Milford Sound and leisurely cruise the entire length, stopping at waterfalls along the way. At our anchorage in Deepwater Basin we have the opportunity to walk the first stage of the Milford Track. It is here that we spend our last night aboard with the most spectacular views of Milford Sound from the ship. This evening we get to enjoy the Captain s farewell dinner and take the opportunity to reflect on our adventure with fellow guests and crew. Day 7 SATURDAY Milford Sound to Queenstown This morning we leave our ship at 10.00am where our coach will take us on one of the best scenic routes in the world, Milford to Te Anau. Here our aircraft awaits us to fly us back to Queenstown where we have a free evening to either relax at the Heritage Hotel or explore Queenstown. There is the option of taking the steamer across the lake to Walter Peak sheep station for a dinner that offers a glimpse of life in the high country. Day 8 SUNDAY Queenstown Tour ends after breakfast with transfers (if required) to Queenstown Airport. BAY OF ISLANDS CRUISING 8-days / 7-nights Cruising amidst marlin, dolphins and legends... Suggested itinerary from Auckland (the itinerary runs in reverse on alternate weeks) Day 1 SUNDAY Depart Auckland On arrival we meet and transfer you from Auckland airport to the luxurious Sebel Suites hotel. We want you to have sufficient free time to fall in love with Auckland. Dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants is just one of the numerous options available. There is a world of multi-cultural activities on your doorstep. Day 2 MONDAY Auckland to Waiheke Island After a leisurely breakfast there is free time to further explore the city. Board the ship between 3-4pm for a 5pm sailing. We cruise past mysterious Rangitoto Island you ll learn more about the island s history as you sip a cocktail on the aft deck. Your first night aboard is spent anchored at Waiheke Island with dinner onboard. Day 3 TUESDAY Waiheke Island to Great Barrier Island This morning we explore Waiheke Island. Start with a refreshing swim off the back of the ship followed by a sumptuous breakfast on deck (with champagne if you fancy). Later this morning we go ashore for wine-tasting. Waiheke wines are fast gaining international recognition for their quality and we will introduce you to some of their best vineyards. When we return to the Island Passage the skipper sets course for Great Barrier Island. We usually encounter dolphins along the way. Day 4 WEDNESDAY Great Barrier Island Great Barrier is a wild and enchanting paradise with a colourful history involving whaling, gold and silver mining, shipwrecks and alternative lifestyles. Fitzroy Harbour, on the sheltered side of the island, is one of the country s most beautiful harbours. In many places the water is deep right up to the shore, making it possible to anchor and tie the stern to a pohutukawa tree. Today, a passion for conservation connects the residents who believe (with good reason) they ve found heaven on earth. With over 120 kilometres of walking tracks, opportunities abound for you to connect with Great Barrier Island s wild spirit. We sail after dinner. Find a quiet place on deck to see the brilliance of the pollution-free night sky one of the most stunning star shows on the planet.
Day 5 THURSDAY Bay of Islands Wake to the unspoilt beauty of Whangamumu Harbour. Once a whaling station it was the only one in the world that caught whales with nets, and it was Northland s longest running and most successful station. Its decline began in the 1930s and the whaling station shut in 1940. After exploring the harbour and spending time ashore, later in the day we sail round Cape Brett and enter the Bay of Islands. We spend the night at anchor in Deep Water Cove, a nature reserve complete with an idyllic waterfall framed by steep forested hillsides. You can swim with dolphins here, a once in a lifetime experience. Day 6 FRIDAY Oke Bay Our destination is Oke Bay, a favourite for yachts because of its remote location and unspoilt surrounds. We are regularly visited by the local residents a large pod of dolphins providing a great opportunity for keen photographers. After lunch there is another special treat the helicopter arrives at the ship and you are taken for a complimentary scenic helicopter flight around the Bay of islands. Flights depart right off the heli-deck on the ship and fly over the crystal clear turquoise waters of the main island group to the world-famous hole in the rock. View Russell, Paihia and Waitangi from the air, then experience the thrill of landing back onto the ship helideck. As the sun sets we return through the Albert Passage to our anchorage in Parekura Bay. Day 7 SATURDAY Roberton & Urupukapuka Islands We visit Motuarohia - Roberton Island today to swim, snorkel or kayak in the crystal clear lagoon, or wander on the perfect white sand beach. Walking to the top of the hill we are rewarded with a magnificent view of the Bay of Islands. The island also has a murderous history ask one of the crew to relate the gruesome story. Later that afternoon we motor to Urupukapuka, the largest island in the bay, with a detour to collect greenlipped mussels. Tonight is the Captain's farewell dinner; watch sunset on the aft deck, glass of wine in hand. Day 8 SUNDAY Cruise ends An early breakfast, then we anchor off the historic village of Russell, known in whaling times as the hell-hole of the Pacific, a place of drunken sailors and debauchery. No longer! Go ashore in Russell to explore craft shops, museums, churches and the historic Pompallier French Mission house. We leave Russell to arrive at Opua Wharf at 10am. Transfers to the Bay of Islands Airport in Keri Keri are available if required. SECRETS OF AUCKLAND CRUISES 8-day / 7-nights cruising through the treasure islands of Auckland Suggested itinerary: Day 1 SUNDAY Arrive Auckland Today we meet at Auckland Airport before transferring to the luxurious Sebel Suites Hotel. There is so much to fall in love with in Auckland; this evening is the perfect opportunity to explore and discover. Dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants is just one of the numerous options available. Day 2 MONDAY Auckland to Waiheke Island After breakfast there is free time to explore the city, then board the ship between 3 4pm for a 5pm sailing. Leaving Auckland we cruise past the extinct volcanic Rangitoto Island. Once a barren landscape comprised of tumbled basalt lava; today it supports New Zealand s largest pohutukawa forest and prolific birdlife. Your first night aboard Island Passage is spent anchored at Waiheke Island with dinner onboard. Welcome to Paradise. Day 3 TUESDAY - Waiheke Island Today we explore Waiheke Island. Start with a refreshing ocean swim off the back of the ship. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast on the aft deck then we depart for a late morning Waiheke wine tasting. Waiheke wines
are fast gaining international recognition for their quality and we will introduce you to three of their best vineyards. After lunch amongst the vines in a winery café we return to the boat and the skipper sets course for our next destination. Day 4 WEDNESDAY - Great Barrier Island With no electricity and a population of just 850, Great Barrier Island is the guardian of the gulf, shielding the inner islands, while taking a pounding from the Pacific Ocean on its eastern side. Fitzroy Harbour, on the sheltered side of the island, is a deep-water harbour - right up to the shore - making it possible to anchor and tie the stern to a pohutukawa tree. The island has a colourful history involving whaling, gold and silver mining, shipwrecks and alternative lifestyles. Today, a passion for conservation connects the residents who believe (with good reason) that they ve found heaven on earth. Fitzroy Harbour will be our launching pad for two days of soft, medium or hard adventure. The Glenfern Sanctuary guided walk gives a special insight into the natural world of Great Barrier Island. We trade some fish booty for fresh local green-lipped mussels that are sensational on the BBQ with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc. Day 5 THURSDAY Coast hopping Coastal explorations are a large part of the trip. Do it the fast way, in one of our high-powered tenders, or slip into a sea kayak and enjoy the tranquility of paddling at your pace. And then there s the fantastic fishing, at a spot known only to the locals you catch em, we ll cook em. The choices of activity are many: forest-hiking to the Kauri dam, Kaitoke hot springs, or the summit of Mount Hobson; a peaceful kayak tour on the pristine waters of the harbour; a trip to Miners Head in one of our tenders; seabird photography from a chair on the deck. We ll help you to find outdoor entertainments that suit your interests and fitness level. Day 6 FRIDAY - Kawau Island Kawau s character rests on the historic shoulders of Sir George Grey, who owned the island from 1862 to 1888. Kawau Island is almost bisected by the long inlet of Bon Accord Harbour, which is geologically a drowned valley. Within this sheltered haven there are many attractive bays; however, Mansion House Bay is the most remarkable. Here, you can tour Sir George Grey s stately home, then stroll along the road that Grey s carriage (pulled by two zebras!) used to take. Another great Kawau walk is the Redwood Track, which reveals an interesting collection of exotic trees planted by Grey redwoods, Australian bush cherry and bunya-bunya pines, to name just a few. A visit to the yacht club will uncover some interesting local characters. Day 7 SATURDAY Matakana Coast Wine Country Experience the food, wine and arts of Matakana Coast. This region has the ideal combination of gourmet and retail therapy. Visit Morris & James Pottery and enjoy lunch at the spectacular Mahurangi River Winery. From there the Brick Bay Sculpture Trail showcases a changing exhibition of contemporary work by leading New Zealand artists. Round off the visit with hand-made chocolates at Chocolate Brown. Return to the ship late afternoon and cruise to Rakino Island for a farewell dinner & party on-board. Day 8 SUNDAY Cruise ends. This morning we cruise from Rakino and have breakfast while under way, arriving at Princes Wharf in Auckland by @ 11.00am. Transfers to the airport are available if required. Cruise holiday specialists Outdoor Travel offers a wide variety of active holidays in New Zealand including cycling, sea-kayaking and the famous Milford Track guided walk. We also offer self-skippered or hotel barge cruises on many waterways in France and in many destinations in the United Kingdom and Europe. Contact Outdoor Travel for more itinerary details and to make your reservation: Call Toll free 1800 331 582 or (03) 57551743 or Fax (03) 57501020 Email: info@outdoortravel.com.au Web: http://www.outdoortravel.com.au/ Mail: Outdoor Travel Pty Ltd, PO Box 286, Bright VIC 3741, Australia