Scheduled flight from Germany to Dubai
Connecting flight to Christchurch
Lyttelton (Christchurch)/New Zealand, departure 19.00 hrs
Incomparable days of exploration await you where the millennia have crafted volcanoes and mountains, fjords and beaches. For many European settlers, Lyttelton was the first harbour they saw in New Zealand. And the same goes for you. The optional pre-cruise programme in Christchurch and the New Zealand Alps will get you in the mood for your cruise before the HANSEATIC spirit begins its route on the South Island. Would you have expected to find a UNESCO City of Literature at the “end of the world”?
Port Chalmers, from 11.00 to 19.00 hrs
Stewart Island, from 8.30 to 14.00 hrs
The explorer in you will also take flight in the mountainous national park on Stewart Island. A hike to Ackers Point* takes you through dense, towering forests, crowned with impressive views of Halfmoon Bay. If you’re lucky, you might spot sooty shearwaters, little penguins and seals on a boat trip through Paterson Inlet*, a bay spanning around 100 km² (39 mi.²).
Cruising in Milford Sound
The HANSEATIC spirit will take plenty of time to cruise through Milford Sound, one of the world’s most magnificent nature reserves. Covered in rainforests, the escarpments rise more than 1,100 m (3,609 ft) out of the water as fog floats between the mountain peaks. Enjoy spectacular panoramas from the many open deck spaces.
Relaxation at sea
Kaiteriteri, from 8.00 to 18.00 hrs
New Plymouth, from 8.00 to 18.00 hrs
The North Island alternates between famous and barely known locations. New Plymouth welcomes you with its vibrant art scene. Rising above the rainforest and meadows, the natural masterpiece of Mount Taranaki* is the ideal starting point for a hike.
Cruising in Marlborough Sounds
Your small expedition ship will be in its element as it cruises in Marlborough Sounds. As you negotiate this labyrinth of waterways and peninsulas, the deck tour at the bow and the glass balconies will become your front-row seats for the natural spectacle of broad mountain ranges and dense coastal vegetation. New Zealand’s compact capital, surrounded by the harbour and green hills, shows how humankind is dwarfed by the scale of the natural world.
Wellington, from 7.30 to 18.00 hrs
Relaxation at sea
Mount Maunganui, from 8.00 to 19.00 hrs (subject to the tides)
From the small coastal suburb of Mount Maunganui, Rotorua, New Zealand’s thermal region* demonstrates the power of the earth’s core. Bubbling pools, steaming fissures and colourful lakes – a truly cinematic backdrop. Talking of cinema, an alternative scenic tour to The Shire* takes you to the home of the Hobbits. New Zealand’s only active volcanic island seems like another piece of Tolkien’s imagination on a helicopter flight over White Island*.
Waiheke Island (Hauraki Gulf)
Auckland, arrival 21.00 hrs
Dramatic nature gives way to the Mediterranean charm of Waiheke Island. Explore its idyllic beaches and vineyards.
Auckland, departure 19.00 hrs
Auckland reveals New Zealand’s urban side. The HANSEATIC spirit will stay here overnight so that you can take a relaxing evening stroll through the “City of Sails”. New day, new impressions: whether you opt for “pure nature” around Auckland* or climb the Harbour Bridge*, remarkable outdoor activities are guaranteed.
Bay of Islands, from 8.00 to 18.00 hrs
The Bay of Islands will help you to understand New Zealanders’ close connection with the sea. Small subtropical islands with white beaches in the turquoise water create an amazing labyrinth. There are few more thrilling ways to explore this island realm than a helicopter flight* or a kayak tour through the mangroves*.
Relaxation at sea
Norfolk Island/Australia
Yearning for another insider’s tip? Then you can look forward to finishing your cruise on a remote gem from Australia’s treasure chest. Become one of the few people to have travelled to Norfolk Island on a small expedition ship on the way to New Caledonia. Bays, green meadows and steep cliffs: if the weather permits a landing, you can bring your many experiences to a picturesque conclusion.
Relaxation at sea
Noumea/New Caledonia, arrival 23.00 hrs
Overnight stay on board
Noumea/New Caledonia
Flight to Sydney
Overnight stay with breakfast
City tour
Scheduled flight from Sydney to Germany
Arrival in Germany
* The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change.
The following programmes can be booked.
Please note that our pre- and post-cruise programmes are conducted in German and are charged additionally to the travel package. The prices and conditions for these programmes can be found on the German travel details page and are charged additionally to the travel package. For individual programmes kindly consult your travel agent.
The following programmes are offered in German:
Our popular pre- and post-cruise programmes include a broad spectrum of excursions and are usually accompanied by experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides. Recommended for guests who like to share their experiences with a group of like-minded travellers. Explore specially selected highlights of your holiday destination and enjoy the convenience of group travel – we will take care of the transfers, excursions and overnight stays.
Our travel concierge would be happy to put together travel arrangements tailored to your very own preferences. Whether you’re interested in boutique hotels, luxurious beach resorts, theatre-ticket reservations or restaurant recommendations in the most exciting cities, you can find exclusive tips here and by visiting www.hl-cruises.com/travel-concierge. Our travel concierge will be at your service before the cruise and when on board, of course.