NEW ZEALAND EXPEDITION CRUISE with Dick and Leslie West – 2020

from ~~$7,500~~$6,930

DATES: 2020 – December 11-21

DURATION: 11 DAYS/10 NIGHTS

EMBARK: AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND

DISEMBARK: DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND

SHIP: Silver Explorer

FROM: $6,930*

*After Early Booking savings

Free Economy or reduced rate Business Class Air, or $1500 credit

$250 per Suite Shipboard Credit

All about the NEW ZEALAND EXPEDITION CRUISE with Dick and Leslie West – 2020.

Join Dick and Leslie West as they explore New Zealand, one of the world’s most isolated countries is also one of the greatest. Its small compass houses an amazing range of scenery, incorporating just about every natural phenomenon that you can think of – geysers, volcanoes, fjords, mountains and stunning wildlife. Yet this is not only a voyage of unforgettable landscapes, expect also sophisticated cities and architectural jewels along the way.

Plus, a special pre-cruise tour program will be planned to complement this expedition cruise itinerary. Book the cruise now, to assure the best rate and availability….There is only the one departure scheduled!

HIGHLIGHTS

This is a true Expedition cruise – with a team of expedition staff leading zodiac, sea and land explorations. There is more emphasis on the natural aspects of New Zealand, vs visiting cities. You will visit sub-antarctic islands with rare flora and fauna. And two full days exploring Milford and Dusky Sounds.

Auckland
White Island
Milford Sound
Dusky Sound
Snares Island
Bluff
Dunedin

The tour package inclusions and exclusions at a glance

What is included in this tour?Items that are included in the cost of tour price.

Free Economy Class, or reduced rate Business Class air roundtrip from your US gateway, or $1500 credit
One night hotel
$250 per Suite Shipboard Credit – For use in Spa and Gift Shop – since everything else is included
Personalised 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
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
Unlimited Free Internet

Whats not included in this tour.Items that are not included in the cost of tour price.

Travel Insurance
Pre- or post-cruise arrangements
Items of personal nature

Day 1 AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - EMBARK

Embark the Silver Explorer.

One night hotel is included. We recommend adding at least one additional night, which we are happy to arrange for you.

Auckland is called the City of Sails, and visitors flying in will see why. On the East Coast is the Waitemata Harbour—a Māori word meaning sparkling waters—which is bordered by the Hauraki Gulf, an aquatic playground peppered with small islands where many Aucklanders can be found ”mucking around in boats.”Not surprisingly, Auckland has some 70,000 boats. About one in four households in Auckland has a seacraft of some kind, and there are 102 beaches within an hour’s drive; during the week many are quite empty. Even the airport is by the water; it borders the Manukau Harbour, which also takes its name from the Māori language and means solitary bird. According to Māori tradition, the Auckland isthmus was originally peopled by a race of giants and fairy folk. When Europeans arrived in the early 19th century, however, the Ngāti-Whātua tribe was firmly in control of the region.
Day 2 TAURANGA, BAY OF PLENTY

The population center of the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing cities. Along with its neighbor, Whakatane, this seaside city claims to be one of the country’s sunniest towns. Unlike most local towns, Tauranga doesn’t grind to a halt in the off-season, because it has one of the busiest ports in the country, and the excellent waves at the neighboring beach resort of Mount Maunganui—just across Tauranga’s harbor bridge—always draw surfers and holiday folk.
Day 3 WHITE ISLAND, NEW ZEALAND

White Island is an active andesite stratovolcano, situated 48 km from the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, in the Bay of Plenty. It is New Zealand’s most active cone volcano, and has been built up by continuous volcanic activity over the past 150,000 years.
Day 4 NAPIER, NEW ZEALAND

The earthquake that struck Napier at 10:46 am on February 3, 1931, was—at 7.8 on the Richter scale—the largest quake ever recorded in New Zealand. The coastline was wrenched upward several feet. Almost all the town’s brick buildings collapsed; many people were killed on the footpaths as they rushed outside. The quake triggered fires throughout town, and with water mains shattered, little could be done to stop the blazes that devoured the remaining wooden structures. Only a few buildings survived (the Public Service Building with its neoclassical pillars is one), and the death toll was well over 100.The surviving townspeople set up tents and cookhouses in Nelson Park, and then tackled the city’s reconstruction at a remarkable pace. In the rush to rebuild, Napier went mad for art deco, the bold, geometric style that had burst on the global design scene in 1925.
Day 5 SHIP COVE, AND PICTON, NEW ZEALAND

The maritime township of Picton (population 4,000) lies at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound and is the arrival point for ferries from the North Island, as well as a growing number of international cruise ships. It plays a major role in providing services and transport by water taxi to a multitude of remote communities in the vast area of islands, peninsulas, and waterways that make up the Marlborough Sounds Maritime Park. There’s plenty to do in town, with crafts markets in summer, historical sights to see, and walking tracks to scenic lookouts over the sounds. The main foreshore is lined by London Quay, which looks up Queen Charlotte Sound to the bays beyond. High Street runs down to London Quay from the hills, and between them these two streets make up the center of town.
Day 6 DAY AT SEA

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is whale watching from the Observatory Lounge, writing home to your loved ones or simply topping up your tan by the pool, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.
Day 7 MILFORD SOUND

New Zealand fiord country along with Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand’s premier attractions. Incredibly beautiful, wild and remote, the region is an intriguing combination of rugged mountain ranges, dense rainforest, solitary alpine lakes, sparkling rivers and splashing waterfalls. Much of Fiordland is virtually unexplored wilderness and still the habitat of rare birds. As the ship cruises the beautiful Doubtful, Dusky and Milford Sounds, experience the majestic fiordland of South Island’s western coast. Captain James Cook sailed along this coast in 1770 and again in 1773, when he anchored at Dusky Sound for a rest and ship repair. Doubtful Sound is one of the region’s most majestic fiords. It is ten times larger than Milford Sound. As the ship cruises into Hall Arm, gaze at vertical cliffs and mighty waterfalls plunging over sheer rock faces. In fine weather, mountains and greenery are reflected in the protected waters of the fiord.
Day 8 DUSKY SOUND

Despite being discovered by Cook more than 240 years ago, Dusky Sound is one of the few truly untouched destinations left on earth. Found on the southwest corner of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, Dusky Sound has the auspicious title of “titanic mason” given to it by the Maoris, as no other explanation seems to fit; it is almost impossible to comprehend the sheer breadth of geological events that created this seemingly perfect sculpture, as the sheer cliffs that rise vertically upward from the ocean dwarf the ship. This incredibly beautiful fiord offers many magical wildernesses and stunning scenery that bathe in “Lord of the Rings” grandeur. A breeding site for Fiordland Penguins, Dusky Sound is an important ornithological area too, with a wealth of birdlife to be found here. This remote, untouched region is also home to a wide range of sea life, as the fresh and salt water combine to create an extraordinary aquatic environment.
Day 10 BLUFF, NEW ZEALAND

The most southernmost town in New Zealand, Bluff (or The Bluff as it is locally known) is perhaps the most European of all the settlements in the country. Called Campbelltown until 1917, the city was officially renamed after the 265 meter conical hill that towers above it. One of the farthest corners of the British Empire, the inaugural Royal Tour of New Zealand by Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, concluded at Bluff in January 1954. Nowadays however, it is the Bluff oysters that are the stars of the show. Reputed to be the best in the world, these local heroes are what have really put Bluff on the map and are celebrated every May with a lively festival honoring Ostrea chilensis (that’s Latin for Bluff oyster). But gastronomy aside (and it is mostly oyster related), Bluff offers the adventurous traveler much in the way activity.
Day 11 DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND

Clinging to the walls of the natural amphitheater at the west end of Otago Harbour, the South Island’s second-largest city is enriched with inspiring nearby seascapes and wildlife. Because Dunedin is a university town, floods of students give the city a vitality far greater than its population of 122,000 might suggest. Its manageable size makes it easy to explore on foot—with the possible exception of Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential street and home to the annual ”gutbuster” race, in which people run up it, and the ”Jaffa” race, in which people roll the namesake spherical chocolate candy down it. Dunedin, the Gaelic name for Edinburgh, was founded in 1848 by settlers of the Free Church of Scotland, a breakaway group from the Presbyterian Church.

Disembark and explore more of this wonderful country, or head home from the airport.

Pre- and post-cruise programs will be developed for those interested.

Silver Explorer

The purpose-built Silver Explorer expedition cruise ship has been designed specifically for navigating waters in some of the world’s most remote destinations, including both of earth’s polar regions. A strengthened hull with a Lloyd’s Register ice-class notation (1A) for passenger vessels enables Silver Explorer to safely push through ice floes with ease. A fleet of Zodiac boats allows guests to visit even the most off-the-beaten path locations and an expert Expedition Team provides insight and understanding to each unforgettable Silver Explorer luxury cruise adventure.

Fast Facts

Officers: International
Length: 354 ft
Beam: 52 ft
Tonnage: 6072 t
Cruise Speed: 14 knots
Total Staff: 117
Passenger Capacity: 132

PUBLIC AREAS:

Beauty Salon

A full range of salon services is available for both men and women including hairstyling, manicures and pedicures. Appointments for these chargeable services may be made on board the ship, or in advance via My Voyage.

Boutiques

Featuring designer collections and duty-free shopping, the onboard Boutiques offer a selection of jewellery, fashions, perfumes and Silversea logo items. Shops are closed while in port and on occasion due to local government regulations. Toiletries and convenience items are also available for purchase.

Connoisseur’s Corner

The Connoisseur’s Corner offers exceptional cognacs along with a premium selection of cigars for purchase.

Fitness Center

The Fitness Center is open daily and offers a treadmill, elliptical trainer, stationary bike and a weight machine.

Internet Café

Email friends and family back home or surf the web for a nominal fee. CD burners, headphones, digital camera media readers, and complimentary black and white laser printing are also available.

Launderette

Complimentary self-service laundry facilities are available onboard.

Library

The Library has an extensive selection of hardcover books, magazines, reference materials and newspapers, as well as audio listening stations. Movies are also available and can be viewed on your in-suite entertainment center.

Observation Lounge

Located on Deck 6 high atop the ship, the Observation Lounge offers panoramic views. Here you will find comfortable seats to enjoy a beverage and watch the ever-changing view.

Outdoor Grill and Whirl Pool

Alfresco dining in the soft ocean breeze. Menu options include healthy CruiseLite selections, fresh-from-the-oven pizza and lighter fare.

Panorama Lounge

The Panorama Lounge is specially designed to provide an uninterrupted view of the day’s destination from the comfort of the ship’s interior. This is an ideal place to unwind, listen to the pianist and enjoy a nightcap with new friends.

Reception

This central lobby area welcomes guests to speak with a Guest Relations specialist should they have a question or require any service. Assistance is available 24 hours a day.

The Restaurant

Sparkling with silver, crystal and candlelight, The Restaurant encircles its guests with sophisticated elegance and impeccable service.

The Spa at Silversea

Relax your body and mind with a wide range of soothing therapies including facials, body wraps and massages. Sauna and steam rooms are perfect for relaxing before your spa treatment or after a long nature hike. Appointments for chargeable services may be made on board the ship, or in advance via My Voyage.

The Theater

Gather in The Theater to hear fascinating tales of adventure or to learn about the region’s endemic wildlife and remarkable nature. Lectures and seminars are presented by knowledgeable experts in a variety of scientific fields.

CABINS:

All suites feature:
• Butler service
• Champagne upon request
• Refrigerator and bar setup stocked with your preferences
• European bath amenities
• Fine pratesi bed linens and down duvets
• Premium mattresses
• A choice of nine pillow types
• ipod docking station
• Plush robes and slippers
• Personalized stationery
• Umbrella
• Hair dryer
• Wifi internet access (fee applies)
• Daily suite service with nightly turndown

OWNER’S SUITE

Owner’s Suite can accommodate 3 guests

728 sq. ft./67 m2 including large veranda (158 sq. ft./15 m2)

Large teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, Living room with sitting area, Twin beds or queen-sized bed, Marbled bathroom, with full-sized bath and separate shower, Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe, Vanity table with hair dryer, Writing desk, Two flat screen televisions with interactive video, on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming, Direct-dial telephone, Laundry service, Dry cleaning and pressing, Afternoon canapés upon request, Dinner at officer’s table, Four hours of internet service per suite, per voyage segment, Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment

GRAND SUITE

Grand Suite can accommodate 3 guests.

618 sq. ft./57 m2 including veranda (86 sq. ft./8 m2)

Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, Living room with sitting area, Twin beds or queen-sized bed, Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower, Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe, Vanity table with hair dryer, Writing desk, Two flat screen televisions with interactive video, on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming, Direct-dial telephone, Laundry service, Dry cleaning and pressing, Afternoon canapés upon request, Dinner at officer’s table, Four hours of internet service per suite, per voyage segment, Two hours of worldwide phone use from your suite, per voyage segment

MEDALLION SUITE

400 sq. ft./37 m2 including veranda (86 sq. ft./8 m2)

Teak veranda with patio furniture and floor-to-ceiling glass doors, Sitting area, Twin beds or queen-sized bed, Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower, Writing desk, Flat screen television with interactive video, on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming, Direct-dial telephone, Afternoon canapés upon request, Dinner at officer’s table

SILVER SUITE/EXPEDITION SUITE

Silver and Expedition suites can accommodate three guests.

SILVER SUITE 422 sq. ft./39 m2 including 2 French Balconies with floor-to-ceiling glass doors (30 sq. ft./3 m2)
EXPEDITION SUITE 388-397 sq. ft./36-37 m2 with 2 view windows or 2 large picture windows

Living room (with convertible sofa to accommodate an additional guest), Twin beds or queen-sized bed, Marbled bathroom with full-sized bath and separate shower, Walk-in wardrobe with personal safe, Vanity table with hair dryer (Silver Suite), Writing desk, Two flat screen televisions with interactive video, on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming, Direct-dial telephone, Laundry service (Silver Suite), Afternoon canapés upon request
(Silver Suite), Dinner at officer’s table (Silver Suite)

VERANDA/VISTA/VIEW SUITE

VERANDA SUITE 206-216 sq. ft./19-20 m2 including French Balcony
(16 sq. ft./1.5 m2) with floor-to-ceiling glass doors
VISTA SUITE 192 sq. ft./18 m2 with large picture window providing panoramic ocean views
VIEW SUITE 192 sq. ft./18 m2 with view window

Sitting area, Twin beds or queen-sized bed (Veranda suites 500, 501, 512 and 513 have a fixed queen-sized bed), Triple capacity that can accommodate young children on sofa bed (View suites 310, 311, 312, 313 and Vista suites 410, 412, 415, 417), Marbled bathroom with tub/shower combination, Writing desk, Flat screen television with interactive video, on-demand movies and music, and satellite news programming, Direct-dial telephone

EXPLORER SUITE/ADVENTURER SUITE

EXPLORER SUITE 175–190 sq. ft./16–18 m2 with view window
ADVENTURER SUITE 157–167 sq. ft./14 – 15 m2 with 2 portholes

Sitting area, Twin beds or queen-sized bed, Marbled bathroom with tub/ shower combination, Writing desk, Flat screen television with interactive video, on demand movies and music, and satellite news programming, Direct-dial telephone