Bay of Islands Cruise - Save 25%
Coral Princess Cruises - 25% Early Bird Savings
Multi award-winning Coral Princess Cruises invites you to join us in discovering the very best of New Zealand’s beautiful North Island and the Bay of Islands on an unforgettable five-night luxury summer cruise throughout the country’s most popular holiday region.
It isn’t hard to see how this scenic wonderland earns its reputation in the ’must do’ itineraries of the most seasoned travellers. From the decks of our luxury small-ship Oceanic Discoverer, we reveal the hidden treasures of the stunning North Island - dramatic coastlines, superb clear watered fiords, sub tropical islands and secluded sandy bays, amongst other sights that most visitors never have the chance to see.
You’ll soon feel right at home as we explore one of the world’s most spectacular cruising destinations aboard a vessel whose ambience is that of a private yacht. Accommodating just 72 guests in spacious, modern staterooms featuring eye-catching Italian-style bathrooms, Oceanic Discoverer’s elegant surroundings, friendly crew and small number of guests ensure an exclusive and personalised cruising experience.
Throughout your cruise our experienced Cruise Leaders and Guest Lecturers will share with you their wealth of knowledge as we retrace the paths of early explorers and discover areas seldom visited. Our specially designed excursion boat ’Xplorer’ allows us access to the hidden gems of the region that are largely inaccessible to most water craft.
But the beauty of a Coral Princess Cruise is that you can be as adventurous - or as relaxed - as you please. Explore well beyond the reach of most visitors, or simply relax on the sun deck or in the open-bridge or spa as we cruise serenely through some of the most awe-inspiring scenery New Zealand has to offer. The choice is yours!
Coral Princess guests are among the privileged few who see the true, rugged beauty of New Zealand’s remote North Island and we invite you to join us to experience the adventure of a lifetime.
Itinerary
5 Night Northland and Bay of Islands Cruise
Auckland to Paihia
Day 1: Boarding at 4:00pm we depart Auckland at 4:30pm to breathtaking views of the city, Harbour Bridge and Hauraki Gulf as we cruise to Tiri Tiri, one of only two Scientific Reserves in New Zealand. We anchor off the island and meet our travelling companions as we enjoy our first evening aboard with the Captain’s Welcome Cocktails.
Day 2: This morning we join the Guest Lecturers for a guided walk on beautiful Tiri Tiri Island. We may be lucky enough to see the rare Takahe, a colourful native bird previously thought to be extinct but now part of an endangered species breeding program on the island. On our return to Oceanic Discoverer, we cruise to historic Kawau Island before travelling ashore to view the abandoned Coppermine. A leisurely walk leads us to the historic Mansion House where you can wander the old stately grounds and tour the historic home of Governor George Grey. In the afternoon we depart for Great Barrier Island cruising past Little Barrier Island before entering spectacular Port Fitzroy through the narrow Man-O-War Passage. We pass by oyster farms and spectacular scenery before anchoring in the bay for the evening.
Day 3: Join our knowledgeable Guest Lecturer and Cruise Leader on a guided morning walk through native bushland to learn the history of the mining and Kauri logging industries on Great Barrier Island. The less energetic may wish to join a sightseeing cruise in the Xplorer before returning for lunch. This afternoon we visit the remote nature reserve of the Mokohinau Islands where we land ashore at Burgess Island to enjoy the magnificent views of the rugged coastline from the island’s historic lighthouse.
Day 4: We cruise north to the rarely visited Whangaroa Harbour, an area of exquisite natural beauty only accessible by small-ship. With our expert Cruise Leader and Guest Lecturer, board the Xplorer to discover the delights of these secluded bays. We call in at charming Kingfish Lodge, where there is time to meet the locals before reboarding Oceanic Discoverer for a relaxing afternoon cruising along the scenic coastline.
Day 5: The renowned Bay of Islands offers a multitude of experiences. We enjoy a full day exploring and discovering this spectacular area. From the Hole in the Rock to Deep Water Cove, Urupukapuka, and more, the day promises unforgettable experiences. Landing ashore at Roberton Island, enjoy time to relax on the white sandy beach or join a walk through native bushland to the island’s lookout. A photographer’s delight, the lookout affords breathtaking views over many of the 144 subtropical islands scattered throughout the bay. This evening we farewell new-found friends and enjoy our final night aboard Oceanic Discoverer.
Day 6: This morning we disembark Oceanic Discoverer and transfer to the pretty holiday town of Paihia where we enjoy time to self explore. There is time to visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a site of national significance commemorating the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi first signed between Maori leaders and the British Crown in 1840. Perhaps enjoy a short cruise across the harbour to the historic seaside village of Russell, New Zealand’s first capital city, before joining a complimentary coach transfer to Auckland departing at 1:30pm.
Also operates in reverse direction, coach transfer Auckland to Paihia then cruise Paihia to Auckland.
Note: Due to weather, tides or mechanical reasons the itinerary may be subject to change without notice.
| Prices from: | £1,095 per person |
| Applicable travel dates: | Depertures from 18th December 2009 to 18th January 2010 |
| Book by: | 31st July 2009 |
Booking Conditions
Prices shown are per person based on 2 people sharing a room. Tour Operator booking conditions apply. Offers subject to availability.
Pricing on this offer is no longer valid. For the latest prices call one of our tailor-made travel experts now on 0845 643 6548.
To book, call 0845 643 6548
To book this travel offer, call one of our tailor-made travel experts now, quoting reference WEX323.
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