Explore New Zealand on a luxury expedition ship with APT
SponsoredThe Land of the Long White Cloud has always been a favourite destination for many Australians. Now you can discover New Zealand like never before with APT and do it in style with boutique ship, Le Soleal.
When you travel on a small, luxury expedition ship like Le Soleal with only 264 passengers, you embark on an intimate adventure. The ship can take you to shallow shorelines and coastal attractions to get up close and personal to uncover New Zealand’s wildlife and hard-to-reach treasures.
Now you can book the ultimate, 11-day New Zealand Coastal Expedition cruise from Auckland to Dunedin departing 23 November this year and save $2000 per couple.* Prices start from $10,795 pp.
Life onboard Le Soleal
Le Soleal is an elegant expedition ship, designed to navigate and get you close to exceptional destinations beyond the reach of larger ships. In addition, life onboard is sophisticated with attentive service. Fine cuisine, and a wide selection of wine and beverages are also included. On shore excursions, you are accompanied by a team of highly qualified and experienced naturalists and expedition leaders who are only too keen to share their knowledge. Most suites have a private balcony, there’s a swimming pool, a gym, and hair salon onboard the ship.
Highlights of APT itinerary
Over 10 unforgettable nights, you will experience 12 destinations. Enjoy a Māori cultural immersion in Rotorua, and explore the French-influenced seaside town of Akaroa. Have a wine tasting in the famous Marlborough region and the services of an APT Cruise Director.
Rotorua
Cruise from Auckland to Whakatane where you will drive to Rotorua, famous for its cultural and thermal attractions. Watch young Māori apprentices learn the ancient art of carving and weaving before exploring Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, passing boiling mud pools and the soaring Pohutu geyser. Watch a Māori cultural performance and concert.
You will then sit down to a delicious Hangi style lunch with Māori dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Akaroa
When the ship calls at Akaroa, you will be taken to view the historic sites in Takapuneke the site of the Brig Elizabeth Te Rauparaha massacre, Onuku Marae, where the Treaty of Waitangi was signed. You’ll also get to visit the Britomart Monument, the place of the British declaration of sovereignty.
Meanwhile, you may also visit Barrys Bay Cheese who produced the first cheddar in 1895. Today it remains one of the country’s last traditional cheese makers.
Marlborough
Continue your cruise through winding waterways, and secluded bays and admire the stunning lush green scenery of the iconic Marlborough Sounds as you make your way to Picton. Renowned for its vineyards and great wine, enjoy a gourmet tour of two vineyards and a chocolaterie. Or you can choose from one of the other APT Freedom of Choice options, allowing you to personalise your journey. Additionally, visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, followed by a tour of the local brewery. Explore the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound on a Zodiac with an expedition leader who will regale you with the stories of the local area.
Extend your New Zealand Adventure
If you are reluctant to end your New Zealand adventure, you can extend your holiday with APT’s 18-day Coastal Expedition with Islands to Adventure Escape. Moreover, you can also explore the Bay of Islands and continue to experience Wanaka, Arrowtown, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, and the adventure capital of Queenstown.
