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Unseen Fiordland & Snares

DEPARTING FROM:QueenstownFINAL DESTINATION:Queenstown

DURATION:8 Days/ 7 NightsREGION:Australia, New Zealand & PacificSHIP:Heritage Adventurer

Join Heritage Adventurer to explore New Zealand’s remote southern backyard on this special voyage. Discover the time-forgot rawness of wildlife rich Stewart and Ulva Islands before exploring the primordial majesty of Fiordland where clouds scud ragged peaks of glacier-cleaved mountains only accessible by expedition ship,
and the rare opportunity to combine these iconic destinations on one voyage.

Rich in history and wildlife, Stewart and Ulva Islands are home to a unique range of birdlife including Bellbird, Tui, Kaka, Tomtit, Rifleman, Stewart Island Robin, Saddleback, Mohua and of course, the Stewart Island Brown Kiwi. There will be opportunities to listen to the native bird song and enjoy the golden sandy beaches, before taking the time to take a closer look at the history of Paterson Inlet.

The expedition continues up the lower west side of New Zealand’s South Island, allowing you to  prepare for the grand scale scenery of Fiordland. In the calm waters of Fiordland, and away from the crowds, expect to encounter playful New Zealand Fur Seals, curious Dusky Dolphins, elusive birds and enjoy endless stunning vistas.

During our time here we plan to Zodiac cruise glittering waterways amid the podocarp forest- cloaked spines of Anchor and Resolution Islands and the tiny islands of Dusky Sound where orchids, flame- tipped Rata and clusters of alpine tree daisies put on an impressive floral display.

On predator-free Anchor Island, home to half the world’s population of Kakapo as well as Little Spotted Kiwi, we’ll walk around Lake Kirirua, its surface reflecting the surrounding forest, before arriving at historic Luncheon Cove – a location of New Zealand firsts including first sealing gang, first European settlement and the first ship built.

Discover hidden inlets, coves and beaches as we Zodiac cruise Sportsman Cove and explore Cooper Island. Our passion for helping protect and share New Zealand’s special wilderness remains as strong as it was back in 1985. Join us as we discover the real Fiordland and Stewart Island.

Ship Details

Heritage Adventurer

Heritage Adventurer

Operated by: Heritage Expeditions

Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Often referred to as the 'Grande Dame of Polar Exploration' due to her celebrated history and refined design, she was purpose-built for adventure in 1991 at Finland's Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration.

Setting a peerless standard in authentic expedition travel, Heritage Adventurer (formerly known as MS Hanseatic) combines the highest passenger ship ice-class rating (1A Super) with an impressive history of Polar exploration. Having held records for the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic navigations, and for traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages, makes Heritage Adventurer perfect for pioneering New Zealand-based Heritage Expeditions signature experiential expedition travel.

Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 expeditioners ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, while a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition adventure. Heritage Adventurer proudly continues our traditions of exceptional, personalised expedition experiences as Heritage Expeditions flagship.

Key Facts

Officers
International
Guests
140
Tonnage
8378
Length
406 Feet / 124 Metres
Width
59 Feet
Speed
15 Knots
Passenger Decks
7
Built
1991
Room Grades
Inclusions

Your cruise price includes:

  • Pre/Post cruise transfers
  • All on board ship accommodation
  • Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily
  • Expedition shore excursions
  • Pre-cruise night of accommodation in Queenstown.


Your cruise price does not include:

  • All items of a personal nature
  • Laundry 
  • Drinks
  • Gratuities
  • International/domestic flights, visas
  • Travel Insurance (compulsory for this voyage - SAVE 20% when you purchase with your expedition).