Begin your South Island adventure by flying to majestic Queenstown and transferring to your hotel. Poised on the shores of the South Island’s Lake Wakatipu, and set against the impressive Southern Alps, Queenstown is renowned for adventure sports, lush vineyards and historic mining towns. For those who seek adventure, explore the surrounding area during a jet boat ride. Culture lovers can embark on a wine tour or pay a visit to the picturesque Queenstown Gardens, home to a variety of native and exotic flora.

Today you’ll embark Coral Adventurer, an upmarket Australian small ship purpose-built for expedition cruising and featuring an array of modern facilities and elegant décor throughout. Raise a glass to your adventure in the Explorer Bar on the sundeck – perfect for drinks over the views of the setting sun, lose yourself in fascinating topics from the onboard library and savour an after-dinner walk around the promenade deck, drinking in the panoramic views. With a capacity for 120 passengers, this ship boasts luxurious public spaces to unwind in whilst offering personal attention to detail and professional Australian service.

You’ll cruise through spectacular natural fjords in South West New Zealand, where mountain peaks are reflected in mirror-smooth waters. In this important wildlife habitat, you could spot a Little Blue penguin or two, as well as resident fur seals and playful dolphins, as you sail past breathtaking scenery where waterfalls plummet down sheer cliffs into still, deep waters. This unspoilt and rugged landscape will captivate even the most experienced traveller.

Enjoy a slower pace of life on the paradise island of Stewart Island. A destination in rhythm with the sea and balanced with the natural beauty of bush and beaches. Escape into the wilderness of Ulva Island where you’ll savour a guided walk through the lush forest. You’ll then explore Oban and the surrounding bays. This evening, you’ll embark a catamaran for a cruise to Little Glory Cove. Savour a walk through the native forest, guided by magical star light, to Ocean Beach. Here you’ll get to see the Southern brown kiwi searching for food.

Begin your day with a historic tour, which will introduce you to a city blessed with scenery and a rich history. Visit Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world, witness views from the Signal Hill lookout and admire Dunedin Railway Station, the most photographed building in the southern hemisphere. Next, relish a city and Otago Peninsula tour. Head through scenic inlets where you’ll spot a variety of penguins and fur seals and wander the beautiful gardens of Larnach Castle. Bring your day to a close with a rail journey through the spectacular Taieri Gorge.

Set against a stunning backdrop of green hills and rolling countryside, Akaroa a beautiful location. Begin your day exploring the region’s beautiful Paua Bay Hill Country Farm, where you’ll be introduced to the unique environment, the farm and its family. From here, you’ll embark on a discovery tour of Akaroa’s beautiful landscapes. Stop at the Hilltop Tavern for panoramic views, delve into the delights of Little River and indulge in cheese tastings. Your day ends with an unforgettable experience swimming with the world’s smallest and rarest dolphin in the beautiful sheltered setting of Akaroa Harbour.

A small coastal town on New Zealand’s South Island, Kaikoura is known for its abundance of wildlife and its sperm whale population. Spend time in captivating landscapes and savour unforgettable experiences with the region’s majestic wildlife. Embark on a specially designed, high-speed watercraft to seek out the astounding views of whales in their natural habitat, gently cresting waves. Back on dry land, you’ll enjoy an overview tour of this enchanting destination. Highlights include the beguiling view from the Kaikoura Peninsula Lookout area, the seal colony at Point Keen, Fyffe House – Kaikoura’s oldest surviving building, and the Lavender Farm.

The stunning Marlborough Sounds area can be accessed by boats and offers fishing trips and picturesque secluded bays. Queen Charlotte Sound is ideal for water sports including kayaking, diving, hiking, cycling, fishing or just taking a scenic trip and admiring some of New Zealand’s most incredible natural areas. A boat trip around the picturesque harbour offers the opportunity to swim with dolphins.

Today you’ll disembark Coral Adventurer and transfer to your Wellington hotel.  Curving protectively around its harbour with a white lighthouse guarding the bay in the distance, New Zealand’s compact capital is a charming city to visit. Head to one of its many museums and art galleries, sample some of the city’s celebrated craft beers or embark on the historical Wellington Cable Car, an attraction widely recognised as a symbol of the city. Taking five minutes to reach the top, you’ll roll through the landscapes and capture fantastic views of the ocean and sprawling city below.

Your epic expedition complete, today you’ll transfer to the airport for your flight home.