Reiseverlauf

Reiseverlauf abhängig von Wetterkonditionen. Beschriebene Naturerlebnisse / Tiersichtungen sind mögliche Ereignisse auf den Expeditionen und nicht garantiert.

• Tag 1

  Auckland
  Di., 16. Dezember
  Ankunft 00:00
  
  Known as the ‘City of Sails’, its two harbours will tempt you with waterfront walks and the chance to breathe fresh sea air deep into your lungs while absorbing spectacular views of Auckland’s grand harbour bridge’s span. Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 metres to the Sky Tower and looking out over the city’s gleaming silver towers which reflect on the abundant waters below. Views over the bay and adjacent islands await and you can share elegant cocktails at this dizzying height above the mingling yachts of Viaduct Harbour. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the area at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki. Set beside tranquil fountains and handsomely landscaped flowerbeds of Albert Park, the French-Renaissance building houses, New Zealand’s most extensive art collection and exhibits works from Māori and Pacific artists. New Zealand is world-renowned for its captivating natural scenery and day trips across the sparkling bays to nearby islands like Waiheke Tiritiri Matangi and Rangitoto are always tempting. Discover lava caves grape-laden vineyards and flourishing wildlife in the Hauraki Gulf’s islands. You’ll also find an exceptional 360-degree panorama over the city to the horizon beyond from the heights of ancient Mount Eden. The spectacular dormant volcano rises improbably from a city suburb and also lends its name to Eden Park – the unusual translucent stadium of New Zealand’s mighty All Blacks.

• Tag 2

  Tauranga
  Mi., 17. Dezember
  Ankunft 09:00
  
  Tauranga is New Zealand’s sunny capital – with wide sweeping beaches and surfers curling across cresting waves. Climb to the top for spectacular views of the natural harbour or take winding coastal footpaths to explore the unfolding scenery. An entry point to the vast indent of the Bay of Plenty the volcanic peak of Mount Maunganui is a fittingly dramatic welcome. Brooding geothermal energy creates spectacular natural attractions across this region while plunging waterfalls and fascinating Maori culture ensures that the Bay of Plenty has a lot to offer visitors. Said to receive New Zealand’s highest amount of sunshine the hanging kiwi citrus fruit and avocados add an exotic touch to the area’s landscape - especially around Te Puke. Vibrant teal and orange colours await at the stunning geothermal area of Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve where mud pools bubble and steam rises from the earth. There are more hot pools and some of the country’s best scenery at Lake Rotoiti - where you can kayak across the smooth surface and enter a cave that glows gentle blue with its darkened roof illuminated by glittering glow worms. Enter New Zealand’s fantasy world with a visit to some of the country's celebrated filming spots - which have featured as doubles for JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth's fantasy settings. Offshore the wonderful White Island’s volcanic cone peeks from the waves and New Zealand's most active volcano certainly knows how to put on a show belching out smoke across the water.

• Tag 3

  Day at sea
  Do., 18. Dezember
  Ankunft 00:00
  
  Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

• Tag 4

  Wellington
  Fr., 19. Dezember
  Ankunft 09:00
  
  Sprawling around a hook-shaped peninsula Wellington is a vibrant and energetic seaside capital. A compact well-stocked city of buzzing bars and chatting cafes New Zealand's capital is a bright and breezy place with an infectious easy-going atmosphere. Known as the creative hub of the South Pacific there are shows to see art installations to enjoy and rich flavours to savour here. The sounds of rare and beautiful birdlife fill the hills around the city and the bush of the green belt provides easy-to-access sanctuary strolls and cycle rides. The Botanical Gardens break up the buildings even more while an iconic cherry-red cable car rumbles up Wellington's slope to the city's best viewpoint looking out over the city's scenic harbour from above. Zealandia has provided an urban home for rare and endangered birdlife bringing many species back from the brink. Varied museums cover everything from Maori traditions to earthquake simulations and even the real-life Kraken - a displayed colossal squid. Wellington is only New Zealand's third-biggest city but spend some time here and you'll realise that's a blessing. The wines grown nearby are revered and the city's craft beers are also making waves. Wander the breezy waterfront and admire the surfers riding the wind-whipped rollers of the self-proclaimed 'coolest little capital in the world'.

• Tag 5

  Picton
  Sa., 20. Dezember
  Ankunft 08:00
  
  Pretty Picton is a beautiful harbour town lying on the cusp of the mighty scenery of the Marlborough Sounds Maritime Park and providing an attractive link between New Zealand’s two main islands. The journey into the scenic Queen Charlotte Sound is a vista that only New Zealand can provide as you sail through crumpled green peaks and folding hills towards Picton’s little flotillas of yachts and endearing waterfront appeal. You could easily spend days here browsing art studios and galleries nursing freshly ground coffees and watching the undulations of the bay’s waters from Picton’s waterfront eateries. Or enjoying the coastal location and sea views while wandering Picton Memorial Park among palm trees bright flowers and benches that sit before sweeping views of the Sound. The Marlborough Sounds are 1 500 km of eye-rubbingly beautiful scenery formed by submerged valleys cascading down to the sea's waters. With its multitude of bays coves and islands you’ll find no shortage of walks as well as plenty of opportunities to get out onto the calm water and push through the gentle waves in kayaks. Or sit back and enjoy weaving through the scenery from the comfort of a sailboat looking out for abundant wildlife like penguins dolphins and seals. Vineyards coat the sheltered land between the mountains and ocean – generating the perfect climate for cultivation. Sample a glass of the renowned Sauvignon Blanc from the Blenheim wine region nearby for a taste of the fruitful produce.

• Tag 6

  Lyttelton (Christchurch)
  So., 21. Dezember
  Ankunft 07:00
  
  New Zealand's ‘Garden City’ is a place of quiet streets leafy parks and beautiful tree-lined boulevards. Christchurch has an unmistakable English flavour to it and serves as the gateway to southern New Zealand’s natural wonders. The rebuild of the country's oldest city continues apace - following the earthquakes that devastated it in 2011 - and the South Island's biggest city is now blossoming having evolved into a confident and cultural powerhouse. Colourful street art adds an edge to the city while shiny new bars and restaurants contribute to the sense of revitalisation and renewal. Visit museums and take tours to learn more of the reconstruction which has made incredible progress in recent years. The old-time charm of a punt on the River Avon is still a quintessential Christchurch experience. Sail amid weeping willows drooping to the water as you drift through a blur of colours in the botanical gardens. Surrounded by extinct volcanoes soaring lakes and the rolling farmlands of the Canterbury Plains spectacular scenery sprawls around the city. Pay a visit to the Southern Alps’ snow-covered peaks the stunning hot pools and rushing streams of Hanmer Springs or the Hector’s dolphins who swim at Akaroa. A city that has faced immense challenges - both natural and manmade - over the last decade it's hard not to feel inspired by Christchurch's defiant character and friendly people who share an open and welcoming outlook that shines stronger than ever.

• Tag 7

  Dunedin (Port Chalmers)
  Mo., 22. Dezember
  Ankunft 08:00
  
  The south-easterly coast of New Zealand's wild southern island is a haven for outdoor adventures with masses of raw scenic beauty and thrilling coastline. Heading the Otago Harbour Dunedin is a cosmopolitan city of culture and architectural splendour with a distinctly tartan flare.Searing bagpipes echo down the streets in the Edinburgh of the South which wears its Scottish origins proudly. Gothic revival architecture is scattered liberally including the magnificent university - with its glorious clocktower - and the city's grand cathedral. The railway station is perhaps the pick of this city's many artistic structures. Its glowing gardens and pretty mosaics add extra detail to the elegant gingerbread building. The melodramatic coastline of the Otago Peninsula boasts dramatic cliffs and sea-sprayed beaches as well as an abundance of animals. Explore cliffs laced with tunnels and hidden walkways to get you up close and personal with Yellow-eyed penguins. Sea lions and seals also sprawl out on windswept beaches drifting in and out of indulgent dozes. Not that Dunedin is lacking a distinctly quirky personality of its own as showcased by the event where locals race thousands of chocolate orbs down the world's steepest street - Baldwin Street. Museums in the city tell of Chinese influences as well as the stories of early Maori settlers. Round off an active day sampling a South Island institution - an icy beer from Speight's Brewery.

• Tag 8

  Stewart Island
  Di., 23. Dezember
  Ankunft 08:00
  
  Within touching distance of the South Island's southern tip the majority of New Zealand's third-largest island is handed over to a beautiful sprawl of National Park. Taking its name from the Māori word 'Rakiura' which means ‘land of the glowing skies’ this is an island sanctuary of radiant beauty. Sunsets and sunrise are magical but it’s the swirling patterns of lights that dance across the heavens above that enchant above all else - as the southern hemisphere’s version of the northern lights dazzles overhead. Slow the pace on this island of leisurely fishing villages and swirling Maori legend. The majority of Stewart Island has been claimed by dense forests which conceal wonderful wildlife watching opportunities and reveal isolated coves and dramatic cliffs. Bring your hiking boots as with only 15 miles of road the best way to see the rugged beauty is by crunching along seaside trails. Coastal hikes along sweeping bays lead to viewpoints like Ackers Point or you can take to the sea's waves to undulate gently offshore admiring the island’s coastline from the turquoise waters. Pleasure cruises along the scenic Paterson Inlet will take you out to islands teeming with life and animal activity. Stewart Island and its scattered skerries provide the perfect sanctuary for crowds of brilliant birdlife. Encounter everything from blue penguins to albatross and New Zealand's national icon - wild kiwis.

• Tag 9

  Cruising Doubtful Sound
  Mi., 24. Dezember
  Ankunft 08:00
  
  Located in the far southwest corner of New Zealand, Doubtful Sound was first named ͞Doubtful Harbor͟by Captain James Cook, who observed the inlet as he sailed past it and declined entering because it looked too tight for his ship. The place is often referred to as the ͞Sound of Silence͟ for its stillness and quiet visitors feel upon entering the fjord. Doubtful Sound is the deepest and second-longest fjord in the region (421 meters deep and 40 km long), second to nearby Milford Sound. Doubtful Sound contains two separate layers of water: fresh water on the surface fed by mountain run-off, and salt water from the sea beneath. These waters do not mix, resulting in two contrasting layers with differing refractive properties that make it difficult for light to penetrate. This phenomenon makes it possible for deep-sea species that are more light-sensitive, such as black coral, to flourish in relatively shallow waters. There are three distinguishable arms to Doubtful Sound all extending southward. The shortest is First Arm at 6km long, followed by the longest Crooked Arm at 14 km, and Hall Arm at 8 km long. Cruise these arms of Doubtful Sound to see its spectacular waterfalls, such as Helena Falls (220 meters high) and the impressive Browne Falls cascades (619 meters). Keep your eyes open for wildlife such as Fjordland crested penguins, bottlenose dolphins and New Zealand fur seals which may be spotted on the small islets that create the entry point to the fjord.

• Tag 9

  Cruising Milford Sound
  Mi., 24. Dezember
  Ankunft 15:00
  
  Named after Milford Haven in Wales, Milford Sound is not a sound but a fjord, yet the name has stuck. In 1998 the Maori name Piopiotahi has been added and officially it should be written as Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. The local name refers to the extinct New Zealand Thrush (the piopio). Milford Sound sits within South Island’s Fiordland National Park, one of the four national parks forming the UNESCO World Heritage site “Te Wahipounamu” –pounamu being the local greenstone highly estimated for carvings by the Maori.The fjord has a length of approximately 16 kilometers and a depth of more than 290 meters. Steep cliffs, several impressive waterfalls and dense rainforest characterize the fjord. Halfway down the fjord is Stirling Falls, the second tallest. Near the end of the sound the U-shaped Sinbad Gully and the famous Mitre Peak which rises to a height of 1,692 meters can be seen, while on the eastern side is Lady Bowen Falls, at 162 meters the tallest of the falls. The Piopiotahi Marine Reserve protects the flora and fauna in the water. Apart from bottlenose dolphins in the fjord, New Zealand fur seals can be seen resting on Seal Rock on the northern shore, while on the opposite side is a Fiordland Crested Penguin site. 

• Tag 10

  Day at sea
  Do., 25. Dezember
  Ankunft 00:00
  
  Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

• Tag 11

  Day at sea
  Fr., 26. Dezember
  Ankunft 00:00
  
  Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

• Tag 12

  Hobart, Tasmania
  Sa., 27. Dezember
  Ankunft 08:00
  
  Mount Wellington's looming cloud-wisped form is an ever-present sight as you explore booming Hobart the cosmopolitan capital of Australia's most southerly state. A former British penal colony nowadays Australia’s second-oldest city is a place to live the free and easy life. Encircled by dramatic cliffs landscaped gardens and rolling vineyards Hobart is also well stacked with cultural pursuits including museums and respected - if controversial - galleries plastering new and old art to their walls. With fresh sea breezes and a fabulous location Hobart is a creative place where you can browse the produce of local artisans in Saturday's massive Salamanca Market - which draws visitors from all across Tasmania and beyond. Eat at waterfront restaurants or rise up Mount Wellington's slopes to appreciate the remoteness of Hobart's location. From this elevated platform you can look down across views of flowing forests undulating mountains and endless ocean swallowing up the city. Further away animal sanctuaries introduce you to the island's famous inhabitants including the famous Tasmanian devil. Thirsty? Hobart has a long brewing tradition - so enjoy a refreshing ale poured from the country's oldest brewery. The climate's blend of generous sunshine and cool Antarctic breezes helps Hobart to produce its acclaimed wines and thick clumps of pinot noir grapes hang from vineyards dotted along the valleys nearby. Taste the wines accompanied by a platter of artisan cheese and sausage.

• Tag 13

  Hobart, Tasmania
  So., 28. Dezember
  Ankunft 00:00
  
  Mount Wellington's looming cloud-wisped form is an ever-present sight as you explore booming Hobart the cosmopolitan capital of Australia's most southerly state. A former British penal colony nowadays Australia’s second-oldest city is a place to live the free and easy life. Encircled by dramatic cliffs landscaped gardens and rolling vineyards Hobart is also well stacked with cultural pursuits including museums and respected - if controversial - galleries plastering new and old art to their walls. With fresh sea breezes and a fabulous location Hobart is a creative place where you can browse the produce of local artisans in Saturday's massive Salamanca Market - which draws visitors from all across Tasmania and beyond. Eat at waterfront restaurants or rise up Mount Wellington's slopes to appreciate the remoteness of Hobart's location. From this elevated platform you can look down across views of flowing forests undulating mountains and endless ocean swallowing up the city. Further away animal sanctuaries introduce you to the island's famous inhabitants including the famous Tasmanian devil. Thirsty? Hobart has a long brewing tradition - so enjoy a refreshing ale poured from the country's oldest brewery. The climate's blend of generous sunshine and cool Antarctic breezes helps Hobart to produce its acclaimed wines and thick clumps of pinot noir grapes hang from vineyards dotted along the valleys nearby. Taste the wines accompanied by a platter of artisan cheese and sausage.

• Tag 14

  Day at sea
  Mo., 29. Dezember
  Ankunft 00:00
  
  Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

• Tag 15

  Day at sea
  Di., 30. Dezember
  Ankunft 00:00
  
  Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

• Tag 16

  Sydney
  Mi., 31. Dezember
  Ankunft 08:00
  
  With its glorious harbour, lavish golden beaches and iconic landmarks, Sydney is Australia's showpiece city. Creative and curious, discover the world-class cuisine, indigenous culture, and irresistible beach life that make Sydney one of the world’s most dynamic, exciting destinations. Sydney’s sparkling harbour is the heart of a richly cultural city. Overlooked by the metallic curves of the masterpiece of an Opera House, and that grand arched harbour bridge. Take it all in from the water, and admire the iconic landmarks, which are set before the city’s gleaming skyline backdrop. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the legendary climb up the smooth curve of the bridge - nicknamed the Coathanger - to soak in the shining city’s spread from a unique perspective. Spread out to tan on one of the world’s most famous stretches of sand - Bondi Beach. Restaurants and bars burble away in the background, while the sun beams down, and surfers curl and leap over pure rollers. Swim in spectacular salty ocean pools, or wander the beautiful Bondi to Coogee coastal walk for more of this sun-gorged stretch of prime coastline. Leaving the thrills of Australia’s largest city behind is surprisingly simple - take to the skies to be flown above skyscrapers and rippling ribbons of waves, out to majestic peaks, sheer cliffs and iconic rock formations - like the Three Sisters of the Blue Mountains. Or, drop in on wildlife sanctuaries caring for the country’s animals - from hopping kangaroos to adorably cute, cuddly koalas.

• Tag 17

  Sydney
  Do., 1. Jänner
  Ankunft 00:00
  
  With its glorious harbour, lavish golden beaches and iconic landmarks, Sydney is Australia's showpiece city. Creative and curious, discover the world-class cuisine, indigenous culture, and irresistible beach life that make Sydney one of the world’s most dynamic, exciting destinations. Sydney’s sparkling harbour is the heart of a richly cultural city. Overlooked by the metallic curves of the masterpiece of an Opera House, and that grand arched harbour bridge. Take it all in from the water, and admire the iconic landmarks, which are set before the city’s gleaming skyline backdrop. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the legendary climb up the smooth curve of the bridge - nicknamed the Coathanger - to soak in the shining city’s spread from a unique perspective. Spread out to tan on one of the world’s most famous stretches of sand - Bondi Beach. Restaurants and bars burble away in the background, while the sun beams down, and surfers curl and leap over pure rollers. Swim in spectacular salty ocean pools, or wander the beautiful Bondi to Coogee coastal walk for more of this sun-gorged stretch of prime coastline. Leaving the thrills of Australia’s largest city behind is surprisingly simple - take to the skies to be flown above skyscrapers and rippling ribbons of waves, out to majestic peaks, sheer cliffs and iconic rock formations - like the Three Sisters of the Blue Mountains. Or, drop in on wildlife sanctuaries caring for the country’s animals - from hopping kangaroos to adorably cute, cuddly koalas.

• Tag 18

  Day at sea
  Fr., 2. Jänner
  Ankunft 00:00
  
  Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

• Tag 19

  Melbourne
  Sa., 3. Jänner
  Ankunft 06:00
  
  The smells of freshly ground artisan coffees fill the streets of this hip youthful city which is generously sprinkled with fine dining establishments art galleries and absorbing museums. With an airy outdoor lifestyle Melbourne is a vibrant global hub of fashion fun and festivities. Multicultural and diverse Victoria’s capital is crisscrossed by narrow alleys and splashed with street art. It’s fair to say Melbourne’s bearded baristas take their coffees seriously. Settle in to sample the unique coffee culture that is an essential part of Melbourne life. Looking for something a little stronger? The city’s rooftop bars come alive with clinking cocktails as the sun sets. A world leader in culinary arts take your seat at award-winning restaurants and sample world foods alongside delicious wines cultivated in the vineyards of the surrounding valleys. Savour a glass while cruising the arching Yarra River for an unbeatable introduction to Melbourne. An outdoor city it’s no surprise that Melbourne is one of Australia’s sporting giants. The vast bowl of Melbourne Cricket Ground serves as the city’s sporting cathedral – squeezing in over 100 000 fans and hosting various sports on its hallowed oval turf. Whether it’s the rumble of hoofs during the Melbourne Cup revs of engines during the Formula One or thwacks of tennis balls during the Australian Open - few places can boast such a comprehensive list of high-profile sporting appeals.