This cruise exploration takes you through the spectacular water world of the Bay of Islands. One of the most beautiful locations in the world with 150 islands, superb scenery with corals, rocky coastlines and shipwrecks, history and adventure. The Bay of Islands is a birdwatchers paradise and the waterways are teeming with marine wildlife including Bottlenose Dolphins, Killer Whales and Manta Rays. A Zodiac fleet will land on selected islands for guided nature walks and wildlife photography. Secluded bays, rugged forest-covered islands and picturesque settlements –all combine to make the Bay of Islands experience an unforgettable one. Available Cruise Departure Dates: Feb 20, 2012

Auckland is the largest city in the country, and has the largest Polynesian population of any city in the world. It is one of the few cities in the world to have harbours on two separate major bodies of water. Auckland is popularly known as the "City of Sails" because the harbour is often dotted with hundreds of yachts, in fact over 135,000 are registered in the city. Many national treasures are displayed at the Auckland Art Gallery, Auckland War Memorial Museum, the National Maritime Museum, or the Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT). Exotic creatures can be observed at the Auckland Zoo and Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World.

A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the Auckland Airport and Hotel.

Centrally located in Auckland, this property is near Queen Street Shopping District, Sky Tower, and Auckland City Hall. Additional nearby points of interest include Auckland War Memorial Museum. Guestrooms have premium bedding, air conditioning, and slippers; rooms also include refrigerators, separate bathtubs and showers, and bathrobes. At Stamford Plaza Auckland recreational amenities include an indoor pool, a spa tub, and a sauna. The property also provides a business center, a concierge desk, and a porter/bellhop.

Overnight at Stamford Plaza (5*).

See first hand why Auckland is known as the City of Sails as you enjoy a trip over the Harbour Bridge. Visit the Famous Auckland landmark of Mount Eden, a dormant volcano whose summit offers excellent panoramic views of the city and harbours. From the fantastic vantage point you will see evidence of Auckland's volcanic history, the most significant being the youngest volcano of Rangitoto Island at the entrance to the Waitemata harbour. This tour also takes in the Auckland Domain, the city's oldest park which is situated on a 62,000 year old volcano. In addition to these natural features you will be taken to the trendy shopping are of Parnell Village with its historical buildings that have been transformed into boutiques, antique and craft specialty shops. Your tour will then take you along the scenic waterfront route of Tamaki Dr. before returning to Downtown.

Overnight at Stamford Plaza (5*).

Drive from central Auckland to the beautiful suburb of Devonport, with a private vehicle. Enjoy a guided tour of the Devonport Peninsula’s colonial architecture and the peaceful tranquility of this historical village. There are plenty of opportunities for photo stops—Mt Victoria and North Head, where the magnificent panoramas of the Hauraki Gulf, Takapuna Region and Rangitoto Island can be admired. Devonport is most noted for its timber colonial "villa" architecture, glass art gallery and confectioners shops. 

Overnight at Stamford Plaza (5*).

Unveil the beauty of New Zealand on a relaxing cruise journey. Set sail along rugged coastline, and through richly biodiverse waters, offsetting pleasant time spent at sea with planned landfalls to charming towns, modern megacities or areas of natural splendor- it's all here in New Zealand, awaiting your discovery.

Travel by way of the wine growing areas of Kumeu and Huapai, to Muriwai Beach on the rugged West Coast with private vehicle. On the cliff tops overlooking the beach take a short walk through the native plants to the lookout point to see the gannet colony. Leaving Muriwai through rural farming districts, you will come to Haumoana Farm (or similar ) — a 200-acre cattle farm situated on the South Kaipara Peninsula. You will be warmly welcomed by your hosts, Greg and Barbara Ross. The farm runs 300 Romney sheep for prime lamb and wool production, 200 cattle, and a small fallow deer unit. See the mustering of sheep by trained sheep dogs, a skilled shearing demonstration, which illustrates just how quickly a sheep can be shorn of its wool, and other typical farm activities. You will be invited to the house for morning tea. Your return drive to Auckland will be through the farming areas of Waitoki and Dairy Flat and on to lunch in the Parnell district of Auckland. Return to pier afterward.

Welcome aboard your cruise vessel!
After embarkation, meet some of your fellow cruise passengers and get settled in.

Technically and aesthetically, Orion is arguably the most sophisticated vessel in its class. The Berlitz Ocean Cruising and Cruise Ships guide describes her as "the latest in the quest to build the ideal expedition cruise ship". Constructed by the world-leading Cassens Shipyard in Emden, and launched in November 2003, she boasts a host of advanced design features including technology that sets new standards in sustainable marine environmental practices. Although custom-made for expedition cruising, Orion is the epitome of elegance. No expense has been spared when it comes to the quality of fittings and furnishings, and the range and calibre of onboard recreational facilities are nothing short of five-star. Orion's luxurious appointments means she is more mega-yacht than cruise ship and her guests are few; around just 50 couples, all cared for in 5-star comfort by a crew of 75. Chart your own path less travelled.

Overnight at M/V Orion (6N) Bay of Islands.

One of the world’s most successful conservation projects, TiriTiri is a Scientific Reserve and Bird Sanctuary. A guided walk on this beautiful island is an endangered experience indeed with many species of rare birds including kiwi, kokako and saddleback plus the rare colourful Takahe.

Set in the idyllic waters of the Hauraki Gulf, Kawau Island became known as the home of Governor Sir George Grey. A historic reserve was created to protect his stately home in Mansion House Bay, which is open for viewing. Friendly peacocks strut the extensive gardens and peaceful walking tracks lead through native forest to beaches, Maori Pa sites and old copper mines.

Overnight at M/V Orion (6N) Bay of Islands.

Great Barrier Island is just 90km off the coast with flourishing plant life and an impressive variety of birdlife. Weather permitting, the Zodiacs will land on a remote and pristine beach in Medland Bay.

Approximately 25 kilometres northwest of Great Barrier Island, the sheer volcanic stacks of the Mokohinau Islands sit on the edge of the continental shelf. This is the perfect site to explore the remote nature reserve with glorious scenery.

Overnight at M/V Orion (6N) Bay of Islands.

There are few better cruising areas in the world than this remarkable Bay of Islands coastline with its stunning natural beauty. Through the headlands and into the open waters, there are many secluded bays and waters with a world famous reputation for big game fishing with plentiful tuna, marlin and sharks. Today you will visit Whangoroa harbor to explore the area.

Overnight at M/V Orion (6N) Bay of Islands.

Today you will join the Zodiac fleet for an excursion out to Roberton Island.  With its two beautiful lagoons and steep rocky cliffs it is quite a sight for photographs or for exploration. 

Overnight at M/V Orion (6N) Bay of Islands.

On the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand you will enjoy your first taste of Aotearoa. Here a coastline of bays and white sandy beaches embraces a sea dotted with 150 islands. The Maoris believe that the Bay of Islands was originally discovered by their legendary navigator Kupe. This is where the Maoris first arrived, and not so long ago was a base for whalers, sealers and sailors, preparing the way for a fusing of Maori and European culture. It is famously known as being the home of the Treaty of Waitangi, the first official agreement between Maori and the British.

Overnight at M/V Orion (6N) Bay of Islands.

Today you'll arrive at the port of Auckland, where you will disembark from your ship, and say farewell to your fellow cruisemates.

A private vehicle with driver will provide a transfer between the Auckland Airport and Hotel.

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport).