Heritage Expeditions announces first voyages on new expedition yacht Heritage Explorer
Heritage Expeditions’ new 18-guest expedition yacht Heritage Explorer will set sail on her maiden voyage with the pioneering expedition cruise company next month on all-new voyage Discover Marlborough Sounds.
The 7-day exploration of Marlborough Sounds including Queen Charlotte and Pelorus Sounds, French Pass and d’Urville Island will be followed by The Top of the South, a 9-day expedition cruise exploring the hidden coves, beaches, waterways, wildlife and rich history of the top of New Zealand’s South Island.
Heritage Expeditions Commercial Director and Expedition Leader Aaron Russ said the new voyages announced both a return to the boutique Kiwi adventures the company was founded on and a domestic expansion of its expedition repertoire.
“We are really excited to bring a new style of voyage to destinations we know intimately, and offer more in-depth exploration experiences of New Zealand,” said Mr Russ.
Upcoming itineraries including Fiordland, Hauraki Gulf, Bay of Islands and Stewart Island will be released shortly.
Discover Marlborough Sounds
Blenheim return, from NZ$4,200 per person
Discover the tranquil waterways, wildlife and rich history of New Zealand’s Marlborough Sounds on an unforgettable 7-day Kiwi adventure exploring Queen Charlotte and Pelorus Sounds, French Pass and d’Urville Island.
11 – 17 April 2021 (inaugural voyage)
8 – 14 May 2021
14 – 20 May 2021
The Top of the South
Blenheim – Nelson, and reverse, from NZ$5,600 per person
Explore the hidden coves, beaches, waterways, wildlife and rich history of the top of New Zealand’s South Island on this 9-day expedition cruise of Queen Charlotte and Pelorus Sounds, French Pass and d’Urville Island, and Abel Tasman National Park.
30 May – 7 June 2021
About Heritage Explorer
Setting a new standard for discovery travel in New Zealand, 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 a flight of inclusive regional New Zealand wines, beers and spirits; 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.
