Ultimate New Zealand Land & Sea Luxury Journey
Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Stewart Island, Milford Sound, Dusky Sound, Akaroa, Kaikoura, Kaiteriteri, Picton, Napier
- Auckland Highlights: Explore Auckland’s lively waterfront and discover top North Island icons including glowworm caves and the legendary Hobbiton Movie Set.
- Stewart Island Wilderness: Experience remote Stewart Island, a sanctuary for rare kiwi birds and breathtaking southern night skies.
- Luxury Coastal Cruise: Cruise 11 nights aboard a deluxe mega-yacht as you explore New Zealand’s dramatic coastline and hidden fjords.
- On-Land Adventures: Enjoy curated experiences including Waipara wine tasting, Otago’s rare wildlife encounters, and Christchurch’s signature attractions.
- Seasonal Cruise Expertise: Consult your Cruise Expert to find the ideal New Zealand sailing available from October to April.
Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
TravelTides: A Journey Like No Other
Experience thoughtfully curated itineraries created by our travel experts to inspire your next adventure. Every journey can be fully customized to match your interests, budget, and personal travel style. With TravelTides, explore top destinations, immerse yourself in local cultures, and enjoy authentic experiences tailored to your schedule and the way you love to travel.
Day 1: Auckland
You will receive a welcome package on arrival which will include a welcome letter, detailed itinerary, voucher summary including supplier contact list as well as a 'sustainability pack' with reusable water bottles and carry bag. No physical vouchers will be included. This will be available at your first hotel. Please request upon check in if not presented to you or in your room upon arrival.
Meet your private driver for a transfer between the airport and your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying:
Hotel De Brett
Boutique Suite
Day 2: Auckland
Meet your private guide at your city hotel to begin an exclusive half-day walking tour into the heart of Auckland. Nicknamed the "City of Sails" for its abundance of yacht marinas and its rich maritime history, Auckland is New Zealand's largest and most bustling city, often confused for its capital. Along with your guide, you'll not only discover the city's history, sights, and sounds, but you'll also experience a glimpse into daily Aucklander life. Discover Princes Wharf, once a commercial wharf on the city's waterfront now re-developed into a dazzling hub of bars and eateries, looking out to Waitemata Harbor. Visit the NZ Maritime Museum and learn of the early arrivals to the country, from early Polynesians to the Europeans. Meander through the entertainment district of Viaduct Harbor, home to buzzing night life and gourmet experiences. Stroll through Auckland's entertainment district, Wynward Quarter for gorgeous skyline views and head just a few minutes east to explore they city's famous Laneways and the Britomart Pavilions, a chic hub for fashion and eateries, ideal for treating your palette to a sweet treat or adding a new accessory to your wardrobe. Your walking tour concludes with a return to your Auckland hotel.
After arriving into New Zealand from North America, guests often find that jet lag begins to set in by the afternoon. Today, recharge for the days to come with a half-day at leisure. Should you be feeling energetic, Auckland is a vibrant city that is easily explored on foot.
Where you’ll be staying:
Hotel De Brett
Boutique Suite
Day 3: Auckland
Today your private driver-guide will pick you up from your accommodation in Auckland and provide a transfer to the Waitomo Glow-worm Caves and Hobbiton. Take a guided tour through the famed Waitomo Glow-worm Caves. Continue on to Hobbiton to see the "Lord of the Rings" movie set. Upon completion of this adventure, your driver will return to Auckland.
Where you’ll be staying:
Hotel De Brett
Boutique Suite
Day 4: Auckland To Christchurch
Set out with your private driver for an airport transfer.
Board a flight in Auckland with service to Christchurch. Approximate direct flight duration is one hour and 25 minutes.
This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.
A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel.
Where you’ll be staying:
Sudima Christchurch City Centre
Premium King
Day 5: Christchurch
Meet your private driver-guide at your hotel to embark on an exploration of the city's bustling hub, followed by an epicurean treat in the wine region of Waipara. You'll first stop at the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, also known as the Cardboard Cathedral due to its re-build out of cardboard post-earthquake. The cathedral, renovated by world-renowned architect Shigeru Ban, now serves as a symbol of the city's resilience. Observe the city's Arts Centre, home to one of the best examples of Neo-Gothic architecture, showcasing many craft shops and galleries. See Canterbury Museum, showcasing early colonial history and antique artifacts, dedicated to preserving the country's rich cultural heritage. A short drive north takes you into the Waipara wine region, known for its silky Pinot Noirs and crisp Sauvignon Blancs. Here you'll visit up to a selection of three wonderful boutique wineries, a true treat for the palate. Indulge in a delicious lunch before transferring back to your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying:
Sudima Christchurch City Centre
Premium King
Day 6: Christchurch
Journey across the rich agricultural belt of the Canterbury Plains to Springfield to take photos of the mountains rising above you while aboard the famed TranzAlpine train. The voyage through the gorge is spectacular and leads to the massifs of the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. Having arrived at Arthur’s Pass village, join your guide on an adventure that best suits your interests. The first option is the set off to view the Waimakariri River and its unique braided river system. To do so, you’ll follow the old stage coach route, viewing the spectacular Otira Gorge – testament to the road builders of the 1860’s and the route taken by the Maori in their quest for greenstone – along the way before arriving at the Cave Stream where a thread of water has carved a circular tunnel through an area of limestone cliffs, gorges and craggy outcrops. The area was featured in the film adaptation of CS Lewis’s The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe, making it a site of particular interest for nature enthusiasts who also enjoy a good movie. Alternatively, set off with your guide to visit the incredible Castle Hill rocks, unique weather-worn rain outcrops of limestone widely regarded as sacred by the Maori. These incredible formations are simply mesmerizing, made all the more impressive by the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Following your privately guided adventure in Arthur’s Pass, you’ll return to Christchurch via Porter’s Pass and the Canterbury Plains. Please note: The weather is extreme and unpredictable. In order to ensure an enjoyable experience, please wear a wind- and water-proof jacket, sweater, breathable hiking gear, comfortable hiking shoes, and hat, as well as day pack with room for water, snacks, camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm.
Where you’ll be staying:
Sudima Christchurch City Centre
Premium King
Day 7: Christchurch To Dunedin
A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the airport and hotel.
Board a flight in Christchurch with service to Dunedin. Approximate flight duration is one hour and 10 minutes.
This flight is not included in the price and must be purchased separately.
A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the airport and your hotel.
Where you’ll be staying:
Fable Dunedin
Superior King Room
Day 8: Dunedin
A multi-award winning scheduled tour in the afternoon/evening to the Otago Peninsula, combines tourism and conservation in a symbiotic relationship. Tours depart daily to provide unrivalled wildlife viewing of estuarine and marine wildlife including: Royal Albatross, Hooker's Sea lions, Yellow-eyed Penguins, Blue Penguins and a breeding colony of New Zealand Fur Seals with a further 25-30 other species seen during the experience. Close up unobtrusive viewing from beach locations and strategically placed observation hides is guaranteed. If you really want to see the world's biggest sea bird close-up, then this is as good as it gets. A unique opportunity to watch these magnificent birds on their nesting area at Taiaroa Head. Your tour guide will deliver you to the Royal Albatross centre to join their one hour tour, before joining up with the rest of our half day tour.
Where you’ll be staying:
Fable Dunedin
Superior King Room
Day 9: Dunedin To New Zealand Cruise
Meet your private driver for a port transfer.
Embark your ship this afternoon in Port Chalmers, Dunedin.
Port Chalmers, the port for the city of Dunedin is the oldest European settlement in New Zealand. It was founded in 1848 and has a proud Scottish lineage – in fact, Dunedin is the old Gaelic name for Edinburgh. Stroll the well-preserved streets to admire the grand Victorian and Edwardian architecture built with funds from the area’s gold rush.
Outside town, the surrounding Otago Peninsula is regarded as one of the country’s top wildlife and eco-tourism destinations. Look out for the abundant birds, penguins, seals and sea lions.
The luxury mega-yacht Eclipse boasts a number of amenities for a once-in-a-lifetime voyage. Savor an abundance of different flavors across the ship's 10 dining experiences, ranging from fine dining to private meals on your verandah. Take in stunning views while swimming in the outdoor pool, relaxing in one of the private cabanas, from the expansive Observation Deck or the Yacht Club. Retreat to the yacht's Senses Spa & Wellness center for indulgent treatments or calming yoga sessions. In the evenings enjoy a variety of bespoke entertainment options. Take your cruise to new heights with the yacht's two Airbus Helicopters, or keep your feet on the solid deck with luxury brand telescopes, available in public areas as well as binoculars found in each stateroom.
Defying the imagination, Eclipse offers a truly magnificent cruise experience. Traveling onboard, relax and take the stress off knowing every detail of your journey is being taken care of by Scenic's expert staff, crew and butlers, trained to anticipate your needs. Each aspect of your comfort and peace of mind has been considered, including a reduced number of guests on board to maximize your experience, a full kayak program and stand-up paddle boarding as well as Scenic Discovery excursions by Zodiac. Your expert Discovery Team, Discovery Specialists and local guides will ensure every port of call offers moments of fascinating discoveries, be they cultural, historical, natural or culinary. They will lead lectures and educational programs throughout the voyage. With all your meals and beverages covered, tempt your tastebuds throughout the journey.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 10: Stewart Island To New Zealand Cruise
Stewart Island sits 30 kilometres off the southern tip of the South Island. It is one of the last inhabited outposts before you reach Antarctica, with its only settlement, the tiny village of Oban, clinging bravely to the northern shore.
Remarkably remote, Steward Island is also a place of spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. The island is a haven for many birds, including the cute and curious brown kiwi, who outnumber humans and are active day and night. The Maori name for Stewart Island is Rakiura, which means the land of glowing skies.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 11: Milford Sound To New Zealand Cruise
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Milford Sound, nestled in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park. Marvel at the sheer grandeur of this natural wonder as you cruise along its pristine waters, surrounded by towering cliffs that rise hundreds of metres high. Prepare to be enchanted by the mesmerising sight of cascading waterfalls and the captivating beauty of this majestic landscape carved by ancient glaciers.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 12: Dusky Sound TO New Zealand Cruise
Captain Cook named Doubtful Sound in 1770, because the entrance looked too small and so he chose not to sail in it. Over the centuries, it has kept its stunning beauty well-hidden and even today remains a place of serenity. Cruise close to craggy cliffs rising from the water, looking out for bottlenose dolphins and the Fiordland Crested Penguin.
Continue south to Dusky Sound, one of the largest fjords in New Zealand, stretching for 40 kilometres. It’s accessible only by air or sea, meaning very few tourists get to experience its majesty.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 13: New Zealand Cruise
Take some time to explore the ship, from the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10 to the tranquil Senses Spa# on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, plunge pool and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the eight bars and lounges on board or curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions are happening in the state-of-the-art on board theatre and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife, or activities on offer.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 14: Akaroa To New Zealand Cruise
Arrive at Akaroa, the only French settlement in New Zealand. Founded by French whalers in the 1840s, it retains its French street names, charming Gallic cottages, excellent cuisine and plethora of cheese shops. Akaroa is also home to a sparkling harbour frequented by rare Hector’s dolphins, an historic lighthouse and is surrounded by rippling green hillside.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 15: Kaikoura To New Zealand Cruise
Sailing north along the east coast of the island, you’ll arrive in Kaikoura. This tiny town sits in a spectacular natural environment, flanked by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the snow-capped Seaward Kaikoura Range on the other. The town began life as a whaling station in the mid 1800s; visit the oldest surviving building, Fyffe House, or the Kaikoura Museum to learn more about its history.
It’s an ideal place for wildlife encounters. Whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in these waters, and an impressive array of seabirds fill the air, including the mighty albatross.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 16: Kaiteriteri To New Zealand Cruise
Kaiteriteri is arguably New Zealand’s most beautiful beach, a perfect arc of golden sand fronting startlingly blue water. It’s also the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, a gorgeous coastal park known for its sea kayaking, walks and wildlife.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 17: Picton To New Zealand Cruise
Spend some time in Picton, a picturesque small town that looks almost tropical with its towering palm trees and clear turquoise water. Wander the pretty waterfront promenade, lined with shops, cafes and galleries, or visit the museum inside the Edwin Fox convict ship dry docked offshore. Picton is a short drive from the famous Marlborough wine region, which produces around two thirds of New Zealand’s wine.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 18: Napier TO New Zealand Cruise
Wake up in Napier and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back almost 100 years into the past. In 1931, the centre of the town was razed by an earthquake and then rebuilt in the Art Deco style of the day. Today, it retains all the charm and style of its heyday with the largest collection of authentic Art Deco buildings on earth.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 19: New Zealand Cruise
Take some time to explore the ship, from the Sky Bar and outdoor Vitality Pool on Deck 10 to the tranquil Senses Spa# on Deck 6 with its steam rooms, saunas, plunge pool and KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge. Stop for a coffee or a cocktail at one of the eight bars and lounges on board or curl up with a good book in the library of the Observation Lounge. Check the daily program to see what lectures or discussions are happening in the state-of-the-art on board theatre and learn more about upcoming ports, wildlife, or activities on offer.
Where you’ll be staying:
Scenic Eclipse II
Deluxe Verandah Suite - CA
Day 20: Auckland
Disembark your ship this morning in Auckland.
Meet your private driver for a transfer between the airport and your hotel.
Hotel De Brett
Settled in Auckland CBD, the Hotel De Brett links two unique precincts - High Street's hip fashion and Shortland Street's tailored commerce. Hotel's iconic building has been stylishly reinterpreted into a 25-room luxury boutique hotel. Every room is individually designed and complimented with eclectic furniture, New Zealand art and photography. Experience contemporary New Zealand cuisine featuring the best local produce prepared and cooked with care in the Kitchen. The hotel provides a gym and DVD and book library and bars.
Sudima Christchurch City Centre
Set along vibrant Victoria Street in the heart of Christchurch, Sudima Christchurch City offers a refined escape in New Zealand’s beloved ‘Garden City.’ Guests are welcomed into beautifully designed rooms and suites, each offering a serene retreat with luxurious amenities and contemporary comforts. Indulge in exquisite dining at the hotel’s chic restaurant and bar, savoring locally inspired dishes and craft cocktails in a stylish setting. For ultimate relaxation, the on-site day spa provides rejuvenating treatments to help you unwind and recharge. Perfectly situated, the hotel is just steps away from Hagley Park, where lush greenery and tranquil paths await. Explore the lively surrounds, filled with Christchurch’s finest cafes, restaurants, shops, and street art, all within walking distance. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll through the park, unwinding with a spa treatment, or soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere, Sudima Christchurch City offers a unique blend of luxury and urban charm.
Fable Dunedin
Located in the heart of Dunedin, the Fable Dunedin is housed in a beautiful and elegant Victorian-era building. Originally built in 1862 and exceptionally elegant, this boutique-style property offers 50 stylishly appointed rooms with hints of tartan and rich, premium fabrics and furnishings, creating a warm, luxurious atmosphere while nodding to the city's Scottish settler roots. Whether you are looking into having just a simple meal or fancy gala dinner, the Fable has dining facilities to accommodate you. The property is just a short walk from The Octagon city center and the many shops, restaurants and entertainment venues that the city has to offer. Experience Dunedin in true style and enjoy the vast number of tourist attractions and activities such as the Wildlife tour, visit to the Cadbury chocolate factory, history of Otago University and ride on the Taieri Gorge railway.
Scenic Eclipse II
Crafted to deliver the ultimate blend of mega yachting and luxury ocean cruising, Scenic Eclipse II treats guests to a once-in-a-lifetime expedition. The Eclipse II comfortably welcomes 228 passengers onboard across 114 bright and spacious suites, all featuring serene en suites and private verandahs. Experience the freedom of being immersed in every moment as the crew anticipates the needs of each and every guest. The ultimate luxury extends to the onboard amenities with a diverse range of dining experiences from cuisines around the world, a truly tranquil spa, an abundance of viewing spots and bespoke entertainment. Venture beyond the horizon, with Scenic Eclipses II's two state-of-the-art Airbus helicopters, designed for optimal flightseeing, or dive below the surface for an immersive experience in a custom-built Neptune Submarine. From cultural encounters to natural wonders, a Scenic Eclipse II voyage is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see’s to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you’re celebrating one of life’s big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we’re creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
- What’s included: Fully customized itinerary, 24/7 local support, all accommodations, tours, transfers, private driver or guide, luggage allowance.
- What’s not included: International airfare, travel insurance, visas, tips, meals unless specified, excess baggage, personal charges, optional upgrades, local fees.
We listen: Share your travel goals and preferences, and we bring them to life.
We plan: Every detail of your itinerary is carefully arranged by our travel experts.
We refine: We collaborate with you to perfect your trip, even if plans change while traveling.
To help us create your personalized itinerary, please provide:
- Planned travel dates
- Number of travelers
- Duration of your trip
- Special interests or requests
