Christchurch

Welcome to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island and a vibrant example of resilience. Christchurch’s arts scene is one of the most eclectic in the country, with boutique galleries and street art all over town. Charming and quirky cafes are a common sight, while the River... Welcome to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island and a vibrant example of resilience. Christchurch’s arts scene is one of the most eclectic in the country, with boutique galleries and street art all over town. Charming and quirky cafes are a common sight, while the Riverside Market and the restaurant-filled Terrace are unmissable. Enjoy a two-night stay. Scenic EnrichMeet your local Maori guide for a progressive dinner where in between courses you will learn about how early Maori lived. Visit local modern NZ restaurants for seasonal plates of local produce.Please book your flight to arrive into Christchurch prior to 03:30 PM. Read More

Christchurch

Scenic Freechoice: Today, enhance your Christchurch stay with your choice of one of the following Scenic Freechoice activities.Punting on the Avon: Enjoy one of Christchurch’s iconic tourist attractions as a skilled punter propels you along the Avon River. Travel past trail... Scenic Freechoice: Today, enhance your Christchurch stay with your choice of one of the following Scenic Freechoice activities.Punting on the Avon: Enjoy one of Christchurch’s iconic tourist attractions as a skilled punter propels you along the Avon River. Travel past trailing willows, woodlands and the leafy banks of the Botanic Gardens or through the city of Christchurch on board a classic punt.Botanic Gardens Tour: Explore the Botanic Gardens including commentary by your expert guide and driver. Discover the natural beauty, history and culture of this central city oasis while at the same time being taken around the gardens in comfort and style.Akaroa Day Trip with Nature Cruise: Explore the historic French settlement of Akaroa, set on a long harbour, surrounded by volcanic hills, and experience majestic scenery and stunning wildlife on a two-hour nature harbour cruise.International Antarctic Centre: Take a ride on the Penguin Express to the Antarctic Centre. The centre provides an exciting experience where you can discover the enchanting penguins, seals and other wildlife and learn about life on this vast continent.TranzAlpine: Join the TranzAlpine this morning for your rail journey across the Southern Alps. One of the world’s great train journeys, TranzAlpine takes you from coast to coast across the South Island. Along the way, you’ll pass the patchwork countryside and braided rivers of the Canterbury Plains and the gorges and valleys of the Waimakariri River. Return to Christchurch early evening. Read More

Christchurch

Leaving Christchurch this morning travel south to New Zealand’s highest point Mt Cook.  Mt Cook is part of the Southern Alps, the mountain range that runs the length of South Island. Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and discover the story behind this famous Kiwi a... Leaving Christchurch this morning travel south to New Zealand’s highest point Mt Cook.  Mt Cook is part of the Southern Alps, the mountain range that runs the length of South Island. Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and discover the story behind this famous Kiwi and one of the Worlds greatest explorers. Your overnight stay is Mt Cook. Read More

Mount Cook, South Island

Mount Cook, South Island

This morning, encounter the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest, and take in its ever changing beauty as you cruise across the terminal lake in a custom built MAC boat with experienced guides.Later, pause at the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo, where the si... This morning, encounter the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest, and take in its ever changing beauty as you cruise across the terminal lake in a custom built MAC boat with experienced guides.Later, pause at the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo, where the simple stone chapel sits against one of the South Island’s most memorable backdrops. Continue to Timaru to board Scenic Eclipse II, where your voyage through New Zealand and the South Pacific begins. Read More

Timaru

Situated almost equidistant between Christchurch and Dunedin, Timaru has oft been overlooked by those just needing to get from one city to another but more fool them! The town’s name comes from the Māori name Te Maru, meaning ‘place of shelter’ and the pretty town reveals not only stunning... Situated almost equidistant between Christchurch and Dunedin, Timaru has oft been overlooked by those just needing to get from one city to another but more fool them! The town’s name comes from the Māori name Te Maru, meaning ‘place of shelter’ and the pretty town reveals not only stunning Middle Earth landscape and views to write home about, but an intact Victorian / Edwardian shopping precinct with many of the building being built in local volcanic bluestone. Understandably, beach life is very important here and the long ribbons of white sandy beaches and clean seas are perfect for a swimming, sunning and spoiling yourself! Voted one of New Zealand’s top 10 most loved beaches, Caroline Bay is simply a treasure. Built on the rolling hills created from the lava flows of the extinct Mt Horrible volcano, Timaru is a melting pot of culture, history, adventure and dramatic scenery. Art lovers too will not be left wanting as the city’s art gallery holds the third largest public art collection in the South Island. Walking enthusiasts will not want to miss one of the many walks along the coast or rivers that vary from short paved paths – ideal for pushchairs and wheelchairs to longer, more strenuous hikes. Well signposted and maintained, these tracks are especially beautiful in the autumn when the leaves are turning colour. And do not forget to be on the lookout for penguins, which will happily waddle alongside you some of the way! Read More

Akaroa

Arrive this morning in Akaroa, site of New Zealand’s only successful French settlement. Established by French settlers in 1840, it still carries its heritage lightly, with French street names, characterful cottages and a Gallic note in some of its cafés and cuisine. Akaroa als... Arrive this morning in Akaroa, site of New Zealand’s only successful French settlement. Established by French settlers in 1840, it still carries its heritage lightly, with French street names, characterful cottages and a Gallic note in some of its cafés and cuisine. Akaroa also looks over a sheltered harbour frequented by rare Hector’s dolphins, and is framed by an historic lighthouse and rolling green hillsides.Later, perhaps visit the open bridge on Deck 7 to meet the Captain and navigational team and gain first-hand insight into a Scenic Discovery Yacht’s state-of-the-art technology from one of the most inspiring vantage points on board. Read More

Picton

Wake early this morning to experience the Marlborough Sounds as you sail into Picton.  Ask your butler to deliver coffee to your suite so you can soak it in from your private verandah.   Spend the day in Picton, a picturesque town that looks almost tropical with its towering... Wake early this morning to experience the Marlborough Sounds as you sail into Picton.  Ask your butler to deliver coffee to your suite so you can soak it in from your private verandah.   Spend the day in Picton, a picturesque town that looks almost tropical with its towering palm trees and turquoise water. Wander the charming waterfront promenade, lined with shops, cafes and galleries, or visit the museum inside the Edwin Fox convict ship, dry docked offshore. Picton is a short drive from the famous Marlborough wine region, which produces around two-thirds of New Zealand’s wine.Every day on board your Scenic Discovery Yacht, a true culinary journey awaits, with a distinct range of all-inclusive culinary experiences. You may decide to return to the Yacht Club for lunch, or choose Azure Bar & Café where you can graze throughout the day.   Read More

Napier

Arriving in Napier, it can feel as though the clock has paused in the 1930s. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the city centre was almost entirely rebuilt in the Art Deco style of the era, with clean lines, pastel facades and geometric detailing. Today, its palm-lined streets, sunlit... Arriving in Napier, it can feel as though the clock has paused in the 1930s. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the city centre was almost entirely rebuilt in the Art Deco style of the era, with clean lines, pastel facades and geometric detailing. Today, its palm-lined streets, sunlit promenades and carefully preserved buildings create one of the world’s finest concentrations of authentic Art Deco architecture, complemented by a relaxed café culture and easy access to Hawke’s Bay’s acclaimed vineyards.    Read More

Gisborne

Gisborne, known affectionately as “Gizzy”, is celebrated as one of the first cities in the world to greet the new day. Its relaxed coastal atmosphere is complemented by a strong food and wine culture, with vineyards in the surrounding Tairawhiti region particularly noted for ex... Gisborne, known affectionately as “Gizzy”, is celebrated as one of the first cities in the world to greet the new day. Its relaxed coastal atmosphere is complemented by a strong food and wine culture, with vineyards in the surrounding Tairawhiti region particularly noted for expressive whites and rich Chardonnay. Long, surf-washed beaches, a compact town centre and a growing focus on local producers give Gisborne a quietly confident, distinctly East Coast character.  After a day ashore, retreat to the Senses Spa# and relax in the thermal loungers or unwind in the infrared sauna. Later, dine at Elements, where Italian, steak and seafood menus change daily. Read More

Tauranga

Today Scenic Eclipse II docks at Mount Maunganui, a relaxed beachside town just across the harbour from Tauranga. A graceful volcanic cone rises above a long, curving surf beach and sheltered inner bay, with coastal paths leading to wide views over the Bay of Plenty. Nearby Tauranga, New Z... Today Scenic Eclipse II docks at Mount Maunganui, a relaxed beachside town just across the harbour from Tauranga. A graceful volcanic cone rises above a long, curving surf beach and sheltered inner bay, with coastal paths leading to wide views over the Bay of Plenty. Nearby Tauranga, New Zealand’s busiest port, offers a revitalised waterfront lined with cafés, restaurants and bars, adding an urban gloss to the region’s otherwise easygoing, holiday atmosphere. Read More

Auckland

Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’, set between two harbours and ringed by dormant volcanic cones, is New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Here, waterside promenades, galleries and green spaces sit within easy reach of the central districts. You might spend time a... Auckland, the ‘City of Sails’, set between two harbours and ringed by dormant volcanic cones, is New Zealand’s largest and most cosmopolitan city. Here, waterside promenades, galleries and green spaces sit within easy reach of the central districts. You might spend time along the redeveloped waterfront, pause at a neighbourhood café or sample local seafood and New Zealand wines. Across the city, Maori and wider Pacific influences are reflected in its museums, art and everyday culture, giving Auckland a relaxed yet quietly sophisticated character. Read More

Bay of Islands

The Bay of Islands is one of the world’s most spectacular sailing destinations, so make sure you’re on your verandah or the Observation Terrace as you arrive early this morning. With its unique sub-tropical climate, around 150 islands and thousands of postcard-perfect coves, th... The Bay of Islands is one of the world’s most spectacular sailing destinations, so make sure you’re on your verandah or the Observation Terrace as you arrive early this morning. With its unique sub-tropical climate, around 150 islands and thousands of postcard-perfect coves, this is a little slice of paradise in northern New Zealand. Scenic Eclipse II anchors off Paihia, once an early seaport and mission settlement and now a welcoming gateway to nearby walks, coastal viewpoints and local cafés. Just across the bay, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds offer insight into the 1840 agreement between Maori chiefs and the British Crown, adding cultural depth to this naturally appealing corner of the North Island. Read More

At Sea

Norfolk Island

Roughly halfway between New Zealand and Australia, this tiny island is an outlying self-governing Australian territory with a tumultuous past. Claimed by Captain James Cook for the British in 1774, it was settled as a convict colony in 1788 and became known as Hell in the Pacific. In 1855,... Roughly halfway between New Zealand and Australia, this tiny island is an outlying self-governing Australian territory with a tumultuous past. Claimed by Captain James Cook for the British in 1774, it was settled as a convict colony in 1788 and became known as Hell in the Pacific. In 1855, Queen Victoria gave the island to the descendants of the Bounty mutineers, who had outgrown their home on Pitcairn Island.   Today, Norfolk remains a wild place, with dramatic landscapes, towering pines and pounding surf. Perfect for relaxation and exploration, you'll discover a charming small town with rich history. Explore World Heritage-listed ruins and the remarkable St Barnabas Chapel. Read More

At Sea

At Sea

Pacific Harbour

Pacific Harbour sits on Viti Levu’s southern coast, where lush hills meet a wide stretch of lagoon. Often referred to as Fiji’s adventure capital, it also offers a relaxed introduction to local life, with village visits, handicraft markets and coastal walks. You may have the op... Pacific Harbour sits on Viti Levu’s southern coast, where lush hills meet a wide stretch of lagoon. Often referred to as Fiji’s adventure capital, it also offers a relaxed introduction to local life, with village visits, handicraft markets and coastal walks. You may have the opportunity to witness traditional ceremonies, learn about fire-walking customs or sample Fijian dishes influenced by both Indigenous and Indo-Fijian heritage. The area's sheltered waters and surrounding reefs provide a haven for diverse marine life, whilst nearby rainforest trails reveal waterfalls and birdlife unique to this part of the Pacific. Read More

Sawa-I-Lau

The Yasawa archipelago comprises approximately 20 volcanic islands that boast a captivating landscape. These picturesque islands served as the backdrop for the iconic Blue Lagoon films, including both the 1949 and 1980 versions. Interestingly, until 1987, the Yasawas remained inaccessible... The Yasawa archipelago comprises approximately 20 volcanic islands that boast a captivating landscape. These picturesque islands served as the backdrop for the iconic Blue Lagoon films, including both the 1949 and 1980 versions. Interestingly, until 1987, the Yasawas remained inaccessible for land-based tourism, allowing them to be admired exclusively from boats, shrouding them in an air of mystique and remote beauty. Today you visit Sawa-i-Lau Island, celebrated for its limestone formations and sea caves, where local legend and natural drama meet. There may be opportunities to step inside the cool interior of the caverns, swim in sheltered pools or simply take in the towering rock walls and shifting light from the water’s edge.On board, join a complimentary class in the PURE: Yoga & Pilates Studio, or recharge in the state-of-the-art POWER: Gym. This evening, enjoy a final dinner at your preferred dining experience, then bring your journey to a close in the Scenic Lounge Bar with a handcrafted drink and live music. Read More

Lautoka

Your Discovery Voyage concludes this morning in Lautoka, the second largest city in Fiji. Set on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, just north of Nadi, it’s the gateway to Fiji’s Sun Coast a pleasant mix of sugar-cane fields, grass-covered peaks, rural villages and ma... Your Discovery Voyage concludes this morning in Lautoka, the second largest city in Fiji. Set on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, just north of Nadi, it’s the gateway to Fiji’s Sun Coast a pleasant mix of sugar-cane fields, grass-covered peaks, rural villages and market towns.  Please book your flight to depart out of Nadi after 12:00 PM.#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.  ^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions. ~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations.Submersible not in operation in New Zealand. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.   Read More