Why a Cruise is the Best Way to Experience New Zealand

New Zealand is known for its snowy peaks, crystalline lakes, unique wildlife and ancient Māori culture, but beyond the two main islands lie hundreds of smaller, secluded isles and remote ports that few people get to see.

Over unrushed days and starry nights, ultra-luxury discovery yacht Scenic Eclipse delivers all-inclusive streamlined access to these spectacular out-of-the-way destinations. And you can experience it all with your personalised butler, spacious six-star suite and indulgent 550-square-metre spa on hand.

Here are four incredible experiences you can have on a Scenic Eclipse voyage through New Zealand in 2024 and 2025.

Sample wines from New Zealand’s chardonnay capital

Nestled on the east coast of the North Island, Gisborne is the first city in the world to see the sunrise. Scenic Eclipse docks here at lunchtime on the Pure New Zealand: North & South Islands voyage, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy a breakfast of fresh fruit, pastries and bread on board at the Yacht Club, or have your butler bring coffee with bacon and eggs to your suite’s private verandah.

As the chardonnay capital of New Zealand, “Gizzy”', as it’s affectionately known to locals, is as famous for its boutique wines as it is for its surf – the best breaks are at Makorori, Outside Reef and Robert’s Road. You can hop off the discovery yacht and sample the island’s drops at vineyards including Matawhero Wines’ First Sun Rosé on your own adventure, or go on the East Cape Cycling Experience as part of Scenic’s Freechoice program, where you’ll ride past Gisborne’s historic sites and its cultural significance.

Sail through the Bay of Islands

With its subtropical climate and thousands of postcard-perfect coves, the Bay of Islands is one of the world’s most spectacular sailing destinations, so make sure you’re on your verandah or the Observation Terrace as you arrive mid-morning. With its unique sub-tropical climate, around 150 islands and thousands of postcard-perfect coves, this is a little slice of paradise on the North Island. On the New Zealand in Depth Cruise, Scenic Eclipse will anchor off the coast of Paihia, famous for its watersports, offering kayaking, fishing, parasailing, scuba diving, and more. You can opt into the Northland Māoria Waka Encounter through Scenic’s Freechoice program which sees you in a Māori War Canoe tour to paddle over Waitangi River estuaries and visit Haruru Falls. Nearby is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the foundation document of New Zealand was signed in 1840 or head to the Puketi Kauri Forest and into the Kawiti Caves with a Scenic guide to see it illuminated by shimmering glowworms.

Get an aerial perspective of the Fiordland National Park

Go “off-grid” in New Zealand’s south as you sail into Milford and Dusky Sounds. Its beauty has been well-hidden and even today a serene aura remains. Onboard Scenic Eclipse you’ll get to sail close to craggy cliffs and look out for bottlenose dolphins and the Fiordland Crested Penguins. Continue south on the New Zealand Delights voyage, to Dusky Sound, one of the largest fiords in New Zealand that stretches for 40 kilometres. It’s accessible only by air or sea, meaning few get the chance to experience its majesty.

Immerse yourself in local culture

Scenic’s expert team work closely with community groups to create unique and exclusive encounters. Throughout New Zealand, there are a number of Scenic Enrich events that take guests behind the scenes. One to look out for is the Māori Cultural Performance in Wellington as part of the Pure New Zealand: North & South Islands voyage. Guests will travel to the Whare Tapere Building and receive a traditional welcome, enjoy Powheri and Kapa Haka performances and learn about local history and legends to better understand the history and connect with the locals.

*Experiences on board our two helicopters are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and conditions. Helicopters may not be possible in various regions.

SEE ALSO: These 4 Island Paradises are Closer Than You Think