New Zealand Coastal Wonders

Cruise Itinerary

• Day 1: UK to Auckland, New Zealand

  Fly for your chosen regional UK airport to Auckland. On arrival be transferred to your hotel for a 1-night stay.

• Day 2: Auckland, New Zealand (Embark)

  Embark onboard Sapphire Princess for your 14-night cruise

• Day 3: Bay of Islands, New Zealand

  A sub-tropical micro-region known for its stunning beauty and history, the Bays of Islands is made up of 144 islands, including the boutique towns of Opua, Paihia, Russell and Kerikeri. A voyage around the islands reveals a playground for marine life including penguins, dolphins, marlin, whales and gannets. There are many walking tracks on the islands which are ideal for discovering the spectacular beauty on foot. Encounter the great Kauri Tree in the tropical rainforest, spend the day on one of the many beaches working on your tan, or take a day trip to Cape Reinga, the tip of the North Island. Bay of Islands is also an idyllic place for dolphin watching.

• Day 4: Tauranga, New Zealand

  Explore Tauranga, a harbour side city in the Bay of Plenty region, and one of New Zealand's main centres for international trade and culture. Climb the extinct 232 metre-tall Mount Maunganui volcano and admire spectacular views of the city and the harbour below. Enjoy a picturesque stroll to Tauranga Harbour and look out to sea, or take a boat tour to Mayor Island and watch the sunset. Pay a visit to Taupo Volcano Zone and admire the pools of colourful bubbling water at the Waiotapu active geothermal area. Thrill-seekers can venture to Waimarino Adventure Park and take part in a range of water activities and finish with a picnic or a BBQ. Those seeking tranquillity need look no further than Kaiate Falls which features a picnic area along with a swimming hole and beautiful scenic views.

• Day 5: At sea

  Day at sea

• Day 6: Wellington, New Zealand

  New Zealand's capital city is nestled between a sparkling harbour and rolling green hills. Situated at the southern end of the North Island, the city is renowned for its heritage, culture, art and beauty. Discover Wellington's golden-sand inner city beach at Oriental Bay. There's a pulsing cultural vibe in Wellington, with an array of museums, art galleries and theatre shows to explore. Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, New Zealand's national museum, is located on the waterfront; learn about the country at one of the best interactive museums in the world. If you're into adventure, discover the great outdoors on a mountain bike ride or go sea-water kayaking. Take a walk around the stunning harbour or trek up Makara Peak to experience spectacular views. A must for any Lord of the Rings fans; visit Peter Jackson's Weta Workshop and discover a behind-the-scenes experience.

• Day 7: Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand

  Christchurch is located on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island; known for its English heritage and famous Avon River which meanders through the city centre. The river banks are home to fabulous cycling paths and sprawling North Hagley Park with sports courts and botanical gardens, as well as the green heart of the city Christchurch Botanic Gardens. Simulated Antarctic environments, penguins, huskies, and rides can be found at the International Antarctic Centre and Canterbury Museum displays insightful Maori and Antarctic collections. For all animal lovers, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve and Orana Wildlife Park give you the chance to see fascinating kiwi birds, giraffes, lions, gorillas, and white rhinos.

• Day 8: Dunedin (Port Chalmers), New Zealand

  Surrounded by dramatic hills, Dunedin is one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the southern hemisphere. Discover the spectacular landscape on a mountain biking expedition; the countryside offers five trail networks. Dunedin is known as the Edinburgh of the New Zealand so head to Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, to explore the Scottish heritage and see sweeping scenery. Drive up the Otago Peninsula and marvel at the magnificent views and rugged beaches. Discover incredible wildlife in Dunedin; the world's rarest penguin colonies can sometimes be spotted close by and the Royal Albatross Centre at the foot of Taiaroa is the only mainland place in the world where you can view the Northern Royal Albatross in its natural habitat.

• Day 9: Fiordland National Park

  Scenic Cruising

• Day 10-11: At sea

  Days at sea

• Day 12: Hobart, Australia

  Hobart is the capital of Australia's island state of Tasmania and is situated on the River Derwent. Climb up Mount Wellington and savour panoramic views of the city and beyond. The main waterfront of Constitution Dock has a wealth of fishing punts which sell seafood; sit outdoors on the harbour and indulge in fish and chips and a spot of people-watching. Pay a visit to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) and Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery. Enjoy the flora and fauna at Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Explore the old harbour quarter of Battery Point to admire Lenna House and St George's Anglican Church. Stroll through waterfront Princes Park and step back in time at Narryna Heritage Museum.

• Day 13: At sea

  Day at sea

• Day 14: Melbourne, Australia

  The vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Melbourne sits in the state of Victoria on Australia's south eastern shores. Melbourne is a shopper’s paradise - from over 300 shops at Melbourne Central and niche boutiques in The Block Arcade and Royal Arcade, to bargain-hunting at the open-air Queen Victoria Market. Visit the Old Melbourne Gaol or stop by Ian Potter Centre and Australian Centre for the Moving Image in Federation Square. Take a walk over the Otway Fly Treetop Walk or admire the 360-degree views from Eureka Skydeck 88. Get up close to the marine life at Melbourne Aquarium and wildlife at Melbourne Zoo and Healeville Sanctuary. Admire the flora and fauna at Royal Botanic Gardens or head to Brighton, Williamstown, and St Kilda beaches to swim, surf, or simply sunbathe.

• Day 15: At sea

  Day at sea

• Day 16: Sydney, Australia to UK

  Today your cruise comes to an end. Disembark ship and be transferred to the airport for your return flight home.