New Zealand Luxe

Departure 8:00 PM

New Zealand's vibrant cosmopolitan, Auckland's spectacular waterfrontand,the magnificent skylinearean iconic blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Situated astride a narrow, jade-green isthmusbetween the shimmering waters of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean on two harbors, theWaitemata and Manukau, is Auckland. This vibrant city is a gateway to New Zealand's natural andcultural treasures: great natural beauty, friendly people, magnificent glacier-studded mountain ranges,sculpted fjords, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, an endless array of sporting activities,and,not-to-be-forgottenplenty of sheep and rolling farmland.?

6:30 AM - 5:45 PM

Delve into Tauranga, New Zealand's picturesque coastal gem, where golden sand beaches, rolling green hills, and a blend of Maori and contemporary cultures create a captivating town. The spectacular Bay of Plenty on New Zealand's North Island is home to the resort town of Tauranga. Known for its fine restaurants, boutiques and galleries, the city is also a hot spot for water sports and a gateway to nearby attractions, such as the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. At the southern end of Tauranga's harbor lies the relaxed beach town of Mount Maunganui, named after its distinctive peak, Mauao, which towers 750 feet above the town's white-sand surf.

At Sea

8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

The historic port of Lyttelton serves as the gateway to Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand's South Island. Traditionally considered the most English of New Zealand's cities, there is much to explore in vibrant Christchurch, from its neo-Gothic stone buildings and beautiful botanical gardens, to its picturesque Avon River lined by graceful willows. Further afar, the Canterbury Plains, snow-capped Southern Alps and numerous rivers beckon with their enchanting beauty and wildlife.

7:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Wedged between Canterbury Plains and the Pacific Ocean on New Zealand's South Island is Timaru. The little city has certainly been blessed by nature; sprawling sandy beaches as far as the eye can see, backed by lovely parks and gardens but it's a great urban destination as well, with a warm, welcoming community and thriving cultural scene. Timaru is famous for its Maori rock art and the Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre offers fabulous interactive tours that retrace the steps of the South Island's whakapapa (genealogy). Once you've finished your tour, head to the main street for Edwardian architecture, retail therapy, and a glass of delicious local wine. If you are lucky enough to be in Timaru as the sun sets then head to Caroline Bay. Not only will you be treated to a fabulous spectrum of color streaking across the sky, but you'll enjoy watching the spectacle of Little Blue Penguins as they come in at dusk.

Cruising Dusky Sound, New Zealand
Dusky Sound, also known as Tamatea, is a fjord in the southwest region of New Zealand's South Island. Though its name is due to its usually gloomy weather, it is home to strikingly unique landscapes and diverse wildlife, including dolphins, whales and its charming Fjordland penguins.

Cruising Doubtful Sound, New Zealand
Take in the stunning views of New Zealand's deepest fjord, Doubtful Sound. Also named Patea, this remote fjord is surrounded by dense rainforest and can be accessed only from the small town of Manapouri. Rich in diverse flora and fauna, these landscapes will leave you stunned.

Cruising Milford Sound, New Zealand
The most accessible fjord in New Zealand has also become one of the country's most recognizable landscapes. Milford Sound's majestic mountains, impressive waterfalls and captivating cliffs are the main attraction of this highly photogenic area, where you can also participate in activities such as kayaking, fishing or sailing.

At Sea

Experience Melbourne, Australia's cosmopolitan cultural hub, where a labyrinth of laneways, world-class dining, vibrant street art, and a thriving arts scene meld together in a city that captivates the senses. Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria - and a global capital of trend-setting cool. Dynamic, sporty and arty, it still maintains an air of old-world grace with spacious tree-lined boulevards and expansive parks. The prosperous lifestyle of its people is both cosmopolitan and sophisticated. The heritage of more than 100 different cultures has contributed to Melbourne's richly international character - exemplified by its range of 15,000 dining venues offering more than 50 different kinds of cuisine.