Heritage Expeditions exciting new 8-day voyage Islands of the Hauraki Gulf will see intrepid guests exploring the famed islands and coastlines of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park and Bay of Islands aboard luxurious 18-guest expedition yacht Heritage Explorer from January 2022.
Commercial Director and Expedition Leader Aaron Russ said the Kiwi family-owned and operated company’s latest voyage was a celebration of New Zealand’s early history and conservation success stories set among one of the country’s most scenic regions.
“This authentic expedition will see guests visiting remote island sanctuaries where native wildlife flourishes and delving into New Zealand’s national history, world-leading conservation success stories and enjoying some of the country’s greatest coastal scenery,” said Aaron.
“We’re really excited to explore these nationally significant island paradises which may have surprisingly flown under the radar of many New Zealander’s with our expedition yacht Heritage Explorer through landings and with kayak and Zodiac excursions.”
With five marine reserves and more than 50 islands in the Hauraki Gulf and some 144 islands in the Bay of Islands there is much to explore and Heritage Expedition’s new voyage includes world-renowned conservation success story Tiritiri Matangi Island, off-the-grid sanctuary Great Barrier Island, predator-free Mokohinau Islands, Hen and Chickens or Poor Knights Islands, Whangamumu Harbour, Cape Brett and the iconic Hole in the Rock at Piercy Island, Whangaroa Harbour, Cavalli Islands, Urupukapuka and Roberton Islands and more.
Islands of the Hauraki Gulf
Auckland return, from NZ$5,775 per person, 7-14 & 14-21 January 2022, 12-19 March 2022
Explore the famed islands and coastlines of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park and Bay of Islands on this 8-day expedition exploring New Zealand’s early history, visiting wildlife sanctuaries and learning about the region’s conservation success stories and on going efforts.
Heritage Explorer combines the ultimate in comfort with unique itineraries and a personalised experience with a maximum of just 18 guests on board.
Heritage Explorer is a 30-metre, 4-deck New Zealand flagged vessel built in 2004 by the renowned wooden boat building family Carey’s Boatyard in Picton. It features a contemporary wood-finished interior, 10 well-appointed cabins across three decks, dining room boasting spectacular 180-degree panoramas and theatre capabilities; lounge and bar featuring inclusive regional New Zealand wines and beers; and a well-stocked local library.
Outside, guests can enjoy plenty of covered space on the Bridge Deck, or adjourn to the Sun Deck perfect for wildlife spotting, sunrises and sunsets, or simply enjoying watch your voyage unfold. Kayaks and fishing equipment are available for use during the voyage, while two tenders allow for deeper exploration and the unforgettable wildlife encounters synonymous with all Heritage Expeditions adventures.
As with Heritage Expeditions other vessels, Heritage Explorer will have an open bridge policy and a full commercial kitchen helmed by a talented chef focused on highlighting local produce and any guest catches of the day, as well as an enthusiastic and passionate expedition team, and will be shipped by a New Zealand captain and crew.
The expedition yacht features state-of-the-art technology to provide a comfortable expedition with high performance dual Scania 653 horsepower engines, bow thrusters, fin stabilisers, full air-conditioning, sound attenuated twin generators and a hydraulic aft ramp, while a comprehensive navigation package ensures the ultimate Kiwi adventure awaits all guests.
For further information see www.heritage-expeditions.com, or call 1800 143 585 (Au) or 0800 262 8873 (NZ).
SOURCE: Heritage Expeditions PHOTO CREDIT: Heritage Explorer – Kayak – A. Russ
