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Bay of Islands Cruise

Bay of Islands Cruise

From NZD $6,950

Description

These are summertime voyages to the Bay of Islands where you’ll discover uninhabited sanctuary islands, watch dolphins at play, visit fascinating historic places and enjoy superb cuisine, served with endless sea views. You will discover perfect beaches, untouched native forests and fabulous walks. In terms of New Zealand’s history this region is the birthplace of our nation.

Trip Name
Bay of Islands Cruise
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Motor Yacht  Passenger Capacity: 18 Onboard STARDUST we silently convert salt water to make 8 tons of pure fresh water per day, endlessly recycle waste water to a level above 99% purity before harmlessly discharging this overboard away from the coast, discretely recharge numerous working batteries from an array of solar panels above the bridge, neatly compact our rubbish to minute proportions and generally do as much as we possibly can to leave a minimal footprint of our activity. Every square inch of this ship has been carefully designed to provide the utmost pleasure for our guests who are accommodated in hand crafted comfort and style. When many companies are cramming crew into smaller spaces, we continue to provide generous cabins for our crew with comfortable relaxing areas. We stand in the knowledge that our onboard team is one of our most valuable assets. Since the beginning, ship designers have turned to mother nature for technical and structural inspiration. STARDUST incorporates beautiful hull design to offer smooth sailing and also dramatically enhance your cruising experience. Axillary power comes in the form of two super quiet, highly efficient generators. Very low decibels, zero vibration together with frugal consumption ensures the correct combination for our whisper quiet onboard cruising experiences. We invite you to come along with us and enjoy the unique experience that is Island Escape Cruises. LIFE ONBOARD Spacious and indulgent, yet intimate enough to feel totally exclusive, STARDUST is beautifully designed and decorated in a classical modern theme. The spacious lounge, dining room and aft deck define our ship. Bi-fold doors allow the opportunity to expand and integrate the dining and saloon area into the open wide aft-deck to create an alfresco entertaining area of an enormous almost 130 square metres. Those wishing to keep up with the world beyond our intimate destinations will appreciate wireless internet, i-pod docking stations and satellite telephones on the bridge for regional and international calls. The helicopter pad is located on the upper deck to avoid disturbance to guests during helicopter operations. There is a further panoramic viewing area on this deck complete with seating and sun beds. Two 7-metre aluminium landing craft are each equipped for 8 guests. Snorkel and fishing equipment, twin and single kayaks and standup paddle boards are carried onboard. Officers and crew are professionally trained to ensure your safety and comfort. Our housekeeping crew aim to present the ship as if you are the first guests ever to step on board. ACTIVITES  We have carefully designed a wide range of interesting activities and attractions, both in the water and on the land that are included in our cruise packages. Travellers today demand the creature comforts and service that they deserve while fully expecting a cruise experience to offer rewarding memories to last a lifetime - to be there, to touch and feel and reserve the experience that only a few can share - all being within our child-free all-inclusive dream-cruiser experience. We have selected the absolute best of the New Zealand and South Pacific activities for your enjoyment, entertainment and of course amusement. During each trip, our officers and crew are on hand to share their knowledge of the ocean and the local activities. Our landing craft are designed to provide fast and efficient guest transport to and from the ship and is well suited for exploring the local bays, islands, and lagoons. GOURMET ONBOARD Relaxation, exceptional food and award winning wines are an essential part of your cruise. Fresh sea air not only clears your mind, it makes you hungry. Select wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks, bottled water, teas and coffees are included in your cruise fare. Our chefs are dedicated to ensure that every meal be magnificent. Local seafood, maybe even some that you caught yourself, is featured daily. You’ll enjoy locally sourced specialities and even have an opportunity to accompany the chef ashore to the local markets. The best quality lamb, poultry and beef, fresh produce and award winning cheeses, all presented by our chefs with a European flair. Our on-board wine cellar is brimming with a selection of award winning wines from Europe, Australia and New Zealand. We welcome the opportunity of presenting our guests with a delicious Pacific inspired dining experience. *** Photos & deck plans will be available soon ***

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1 - AUCKLAND
Boarding begins alongside Princes Wharf from 5:00pm and we depart at 6:00pm. Cocktails with canapés are served as we cruise the Waitemata Harbour taking in Auckland’s highlights including the city waterfront and volcanic island of Rangitoto as you become acquainted with fellow travellers and the crew. The evening has us anchored at Waiheke Island with a delicious dinner served in a secluded bay from 7:30pm.
Day 2 - DAY 2 – WAIHEKE ISLAND
A Waiheke day can start with a refreshing swim off the back of the ship or sleep a little later or enjoy the sumptuous breakfast on the aft deck. We go ashore with a visit to Oneroa township. Find a selection of local craft and tourism shops to explore at leisure. Back onboard ship we prepare for the trip to Great Barrier Island. We usually encounter large pods of dolphins who come to play on the bow, and stay to play for about an hour as we cruise along the way. Our anchorage is inside the spectacular Port Fitzroy Harbour.
Day 3 - DAY 3 – GREAT BARRIER ISLAND
Great Barrier is a wild and enchanting paradise with amazing stories to tell. Fitzroy Harbour is one of the country's most beautiful harbours. Here is a colourful history involving whaling, gold mining, shipwrecks and alternative lifestyles. We tour the island with our local guide or explore the coastline in the landing craft with the chance to try your hand at fishing. We sail for the Bay of Islands after dinner. The pollution-free sky delivers one of the most stunning star shows on the planet.
Day 4 - DAY 4 – BAY OF ISLANDS
Wake to the anchor dropping in unspoilt and beautiful Oke Bay - one of our favourites, a morning swim off the stern, maybe even try to reach the beach. Dolphins are regular visitors here and they enjoy playing around the ship so expect a great sideshow. This afternoon we visit some of our favourite bays with several stops along the way. Before sunset we move to Parekura Bay and settle in for a beautiful dinner and an evening of chatting and laughter.
Day 5 - DAY 5 – BAY OF ISLANDS
We visit the beautiful Motuarohia-Roberton Island which you can explore in many different ways. Snorkel in the sheltered lagoon, kayak around the bay or hike up to the historic Maori Pa site. From the summit you'll be rewarded by the blockbuster views of the entire bay. Later we motor to Urupukapuka, the largest island in the bay, with a small detour to our special location to collect green-lipped mussels for an afternoon snack. They are wonderful with a chilled sauvignon blanc and some gentle herbs from chef's onboard garden.
Day 6 - DAY 6 – BAY OF ISLANDS
After breakfast we visit the original capital of Russell. The town is rich in history and has a delightful charm. Wander the waterfront shops and cafes and we usually end up meeting at the Duke of Marlborough pub. This overlooks the beautiful Russell Bay that was once known in old whaling days as 'the hellhole of the pacific'. Enjoy a drink here with the Captain before we are back onboard for dinner. Later tonight we sail overnight for Waiheke Island.
Day 7 - DAY 7 – WAIHEKE ISLAND
Awake to the aroma of fresh coffee and croissants as we arrive at the opposite end of Waiheke Island. Once here the seaplane arrives and guests are taken for a complimentary scenic flight around the island and beyond. We head ashore for a winery visit and tasting tour. We receive some insight into the charm of this beautiful island. The first officer will also be leading a fishing trip in the afternoon to supply chef with fresh supplies for our farewell dinner party tonight with the crew.
Day 8 - DAY 8 – AUCKLAND
Lifting the anchor at 0730 we then start the cruise back to Auckland while breakfast that is served on deck. We begin disembarkation from 0900 at Princes Wharf.
Day 9 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
01-12-201908-12-2019NZD $0MIRAGE Suite
01-12-201908-12-2019NZD $0HORIZON Suite
01-12-201908-12-2019NZD $0OWNERS Suite
08-12-201915-12-2019NZD $0MIRAGE Suite
08-12-201915-12-2019NZD $0HORIZON Suite
08-12-201915-12-2019NZD $0OWNERS Suite
15-12-201922-12-2019NZD $0MIRAGE Suite
15-12-201922-12-2019NZD $0HORIZON Suite
15-12-201922-12-2019NZD $0OWNERS Suite
22-12-201929-12-2019NZD $0HORIZON Suite
22-12-201929-12-2019NZD $0OWNERS Suite
22-12-201929-12-2019NZD $0MIRAGE Suite

Inclusions

    • Enjoy the trip to Great Barrier Island. We usually encounter large pods of dolphins who come to play on the bow, and stay to play for about an hour as we cruise along the way
    • Explore Great Barrier
    • a wild and enchanting paradise with amazing stories to tell
    • Visit the beautiful Motuarohia-Roberton Island which you can explore in many different ways. Snorkel in the sheltered lagoon, kayak around the bay or hike up to the historic Maori Pa site

Map