Auckland, New Zealand

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Auckland, New Zealand.

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND
From Sky-High Views to Island Escapes

Blending beachy recreation with all the delights of a modern, diverse, and thoroughly multicultural city, Auckland sits on the lucid blue-green waters of New Zealand’s North Island.

Known as the “City of Sails”, its two harbors 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 harbor bridge span.

Take in the true scale of Auckland’s magnificent cityscape by ascending 192 meters 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 Mäori 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.

Today’s Excursion – Maritime Museum, Harbor Sailing & City Sights

Experience the spectacular beauty, history, and landmarks of Auckland during this scenic, half-day sightseeing excursion by
land and water.
Auckland, Downtown Area, Parnell Village, Auckland Domain, Auckland Harbour Bridge
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately two-hour sightseeing drive through Auckland’s lovely downtown area. Along the
way, note the contrast between the city’s modern structures and the restored Victorian buildings in the suburbs. From here,
drive through Parnell Village, which features trendy shops, boutiques, and an exceptional collection of art galleries in restored,
Colonial-era buildings. Your drive continues past Auckland Domain, home to beautiful-manicured gardens, and the stately
Auckland War Memorial Museum. From here, drive across the Auckland Harbour Bridge, then stop for splendid views and
photo opportunities at a scenic viewpoint.
New Zealand Maritime Museum, Galleries, Exhibits, Models, Books, Photographs, Artefacts
Next, proceed for a guided tour of the New Zealand Maritime Museum. The bond between New Zealand and the ocean is
presented, preserved, and celebrated in this exceptional museum. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour. Explore the
Itinerary, galleries and exhibits detailing the nautical history of New Zealand, from the earliest Polynesian settlers to today. An extensive collection of models, photographs, books, drawings, and artefacts are displayed for your enjoyment.

Waitemata Harbour Cruise, Ted Ashby, Westhaven Marina, Auckland Harbour Bridge, Inner-Harbour
Leaving the museum, embark the Ted Ashby, a heritage sailing vessel, for a scenic, approximately 60-minute cruise along the
sparkling waters of Waitemata Harbour. Cruise past Westhaven Marina, the largest yacht marina in the Southern Hemisphere,
then sail past the Auckland Harbour Bridge and inner-harbour, where you may have an opportunity to steer the vessel yourself.
Following your harbour cruise, disembark your vessel and commence the short walk back to the ship. En route, you may opt to
visit the small gift shop at the Maritime Museum

2:00 Enrichment Lecture with David Horner: “Raiders of the Tasman Sea: When war came to Australia and New Zealand”.
As island nations with no land borders, Australia and New Zealand are two of the most secure countries in the world

3:00 Enrichment Lecture with Tony Van Maanenberg: “An insight into New Zealand and Maori culture – What makes them so unique”.
As island nations with no land borders, Australia and New Zealand are two of the most secure countries in the world.

Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant