Waterfall cascades over ;ush green cliffs backed by a higher peak on a partly cloudy day in New Zealand.
Person walking along the white sand beach next to the turquoise ocean water and the green cliffs on a shore excursion in New Zealand.
Several expedition cruise guests on the bow of their ship in New Zealand photographing the tall green coastal mountains with their peaks in the clouds.
Women in black, blue & gray coats & hats walk a trail in from the sea among tall green bushes on a New Zealand small cruise.
Young sea lion with gray fur sits among siblings on a rocky outcrop on a rainy day in New Zealand.
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$5655USD
Starting At
9-11
Days
Jan
Dec
Asia / Pacific New Zealand Cruise

New Zealand by Sea

With stunning coastal landscapes, small seaside provinces and an abundance of charismatic marine life, New Zealand is uniquely suited to be explored on a small ship expedition. Cruise for 9 or 11 days aboard the 120-guest Coral Adventurer to experience New Zealand from a very different perspective.

With over 4,350 miles of stunning coastline to be explored, enjoy cruising sheltered sounds, volcanic islands and marine reserves alongside the dramatic beauty of Fiordland. Expert guides and local rangers introduce everyone on board to wildlife including dolphins, seals, kiwis and keas. Visit remote areas including Marlborough Sounds, Fiordland and Stewart Island. Experience the grandeur and remote beauty of Fiordland National Park. Encounter the Maori culture and learn about New Zealand’s history and landscape.

This compact 9-day itinerary focuses on the breathtaking natural wonders of New Zealand’s South Island sounds and fiords, conveniently operating round-trip from Bluff with motorcoach connections to start and end in Queenstown. The 11-day itinerary adds visits along the east coast of the South Island.

Aboard a small expedition ship, avoid well-trodden tourist trails and access remote and pristine wilderness areas. Get up close to wildlife with the expedition team. Wake up to new vistas each day and relax in the comfort of life on board Coral Adventurer, a ship that features a uniquely Australian atmosphere and particular attention to food and wine. Activities are made efficient by each ship’s onboard Zodiacs and Xplorer tenders.

Awe-inspiring landscapes, indigenous Maori culture and an abundance of unique wildlife all combine to make New Zealand a remarkable expedition destination, and these itineraries showcase remote attractions best accessed by small ship.

Read on for details about how to travel to New Zealand by sea on this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s New Zealand cruises.



Itinerary

9-Day New Zealand Sounds & Stewart Island Itinerary

On this 9-day itinerary, round-trip from Queenstown, focus on the striking landscapes of Dusky, Milford and Doubtful Sounds, plus visit the Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary on Stewart Island and the uninhabited volcanic islets on Solander Island.

Route map of New Zealand Sounds & Stewart Island small ship cruise, round-trip from Bluff with visits to Stewart Island, Fiordland & Solander Island.
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Day 1
Queenstown to Bluff, New Zealand & Embark

Your journey begins in Queenstown, where you’ll meet your fellow travelers and expedition team at the QT Queenstown Hotel (formerly Rydges Lakeside) from 10:30am for check-in and a warm welcome, with tea and coffee. From here, travel 3 hours south to Bluff (via complimentary coach bus)–the southernmost settlement on New Zealand’s mainland and gateway to Stewart Island. Alternatively, Bluff pickup can be arranged with advanced notice.

You’ll board the ship in the afternoon and settle in before setting sail along the rugged southern coastline. This evening, enjoy the captain’s welcome drinks and take in views of Stirling Point, marking the start of your journey.

Accommodations

Coral Adventurer

Meals

dinner

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Days 2 - 8
New Zealand Sounds & Stewart Island Exploration

Throughout the expedition, allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Below is a selection of the key destinations visited.

Stewart Island
Known in Mãori mythology as Te Punga o Te Waka–Stewart Island (Rakiura) is New Zealand’s little-known third island. Apart from the communities on the island, many people never venture to this remote corner of the world.  For the next 3 days, you will truly connect with nature. Enjoy a guided walk led by the expert guides at the Ulva Bird Sanctuary, which offers a predator-free environment for rare and endangered birds, and visit the remains of the Norwegian Whaling Base. Spend the day on a guided hike on a section of the Rakiura track (conditions permitting) and a local bus tour of Oban and its surrounds. Optional Extra: Enjoy a scenic flight with an expert pilot taking in the views of Rakiura National Park, the Ruggedy Ranges and a landing on the golden sands of Mason’s Bay.

Fiordland: Dusky Sound
Spend 2 days exploring Fiordland National Park, a World Heritage site once described as the Eighth Wonder of the World. Discover the remote wilderness of Dusky Sound (Tamatea), first sighted by Captain Cook in 1770. With sheer cliffs, tumbling waterfalls and a dense rainforest reflected in glassy waters, this vast fiord offers spectacular scenery and a rich history. Join your expedition team for Zodiac and Xplorer trips to hidden inlets and wildlife colonies. You will then land at Astronomer’s Point, where Cook’s crew once charted the stars. Take part in guided walks, waterfall viewing, kayaking and a cold-water swim, to uncover the true remoteness of this region.

Fiordland: Doubtful Sound
Wake to the silence of Doubtful Sound (Patea), where this deep, long and narrow inlet, with cliffs, has been formed by glacial erosion over millions of years. You are currently in one of New Zealand’s most pristine environments. Cruise past the outer Seal Islands and spot dolphins, fur seals and possibly the elusive Fiordland crested penguin, or join a guided hike between Deas Cove and Neck Cove and take a swim in the cool, clear and shallow waters.

Fiordland: Milford Sound
Encounter breathtaking views as the ship enters the Milford Sound, heading towards the famous Stirling Falls. You will have a chance to feel the spray from Stirling Falls and get a close-up view in your designated Zodiacs and Xplorer tenders. Witness the world-famous view of Mitre Peak, rising some 5,518 feet (1,682 meters). Its triangular silhouette rises opposite beautiful Stirling Falls, falling from the top of a 531-foot-high (162 m) cliff between two towering ridges into the water’s deep shades of turquoise and emerald.

Solander Island & Sea Day
Spend the day cruising through the Solander Islands (Hautere), a trio of uninhabited volcanic islets that lie just beyond New Zealand’s South Island. Aboard the Endeavour, Captain James Cook spotted the islands in early 1770, and was named after a Swedish scientific crew member on board, Daniel Solander. The islands have only been known to be inhabited briefly due to marooning or shipwreck.  The island has been declared an Important Bird Area as it is a breeding site for common diving petrels and Buller’s albatrosses amassing some 5,000 pairs.

Accommodations

Coral Adventurer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 9
Disembark Bluff, Transfer to Queenstown, New Zealand & Depart

Prepare for disembarkation as the ship arrives into Bluff Port at 7:00am followed by farewell to the crew and new-found friends at 8:00am. Enjoy a complimentary transfer by coach to Queenstown hotels or airport after disembarkation.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

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Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Pre- and post-cruise transfers (Queenstown/Bluff); accommodations as booked; group transfers during the cruise; all meals onboard; 24-hour coffee and tea; captain’s welcome and farewell drinks; showcase wines and selected beers with lunch and dinner service; excursions and sightseeing; daily lectures and briefings; use of Xplorer and Zodiac tender vessels; all entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities; use of all onboard facilities, including comprehensive range of library and video resources; standard Wifi on board; expedition photos captured during the voyage; tips and gratuities.

Exclusions

Pre- and post-cruise flights; entry visa and travel permits; personal items such as telephone charges, WiFi upgrades, laundry, bar charges; travel insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. A name change/transfer of the booking to another person is considered a cancellation and cancellation penalties will apply. An AUD200.00 per person fee may be charged for any amendments not requiring a date change after booking is confirmed. There is an AUD500.00 per person fee if a date change is made more than 90 days before departure. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The New Zealand Sounds & Stewart Island cruise embarks and disembarks in Bluff, New Zealand (with included, round-trip coach transfers to start and end in Queenstown/ZQN). Guests may arrive at the meeting point (Rydges Lakeland Resort Queenstown, 38 -54 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown) as early as 10:30am, up to 4:30pm, on Day 1. Plan flights to depart Queenstown no earlier than 4:00pm on Day 9. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, land treks, wildlife observation (including spotting for birds) and township visits.

Room Configuration

Limited double occupancy cabins for solo use may be available at a sole use rate in the Coral, Promenade and Explorer Deck categories. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Kids 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 11 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

As a condition of travel, guests must provide evidence of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR complete a credit card authorization form for expenses incurred during a medical evacuation. Proof of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR a completed authorization form must be provided prior to boarding.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

11-Day South Island & Fiordlands of New Zealand Itinerary

The South Island & Fiordlands of New Zealand cruise begins in Bluff and cruises west to Fiordland before cruising along the east coast of New Zealand’s south island to end in Wellington.

Route map of South Island & Fiordlands of New Zealand cruise from Bluff to Wellington with visits along the east coast, Milford Sound & Stewart Island.
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Day 1
Queenstown to Bluff, New Zealand & Embark

Enjoy a complimentary transfer by coach from Queenstown check-in to board at 4:00pm at Bluff, New Zealand. There is time to settle into your stateroom before a 5:00pm departure towards Dusky Sound, cruising past Solander Island. Spend the day exploring the ship and all her facilities. Take in the sights while enjoying captain’s welcome drinks and meet your crew and fellow passengers.

Accommodations

Coral Adventurer

Meals

dinner

Read More
Days 2 - 10
New Zealand Sounds, Stewart Island & South Island Exploration

Throughout the expedition, allowances may be made for seasonal variations, weather, tidal conditions and any other event that may affect the operation of the vessel. Below is a selection of the key destinations visited.

Fiordland: Dusky Sound
Explore the remote wilderness of Tamatea/Dusky Sound, first sighted by Captain Cook in 1770. With sheer cliffs, tumbling waterfalls and a dense rainforest reflected in glassy waters, this vast fiord offers spectacular scenery and a rich history. Join your expedition team for Zodiac and Xplorer trips to hidden inlets and wildlife colonies. You will then land at Astronomer’s Point, where Cook’s crew once charted the stars. Take part in guided walks, waterfall viewing, kayaking and a cold-water swim, to uncover the true remoteness of this region.

Fiordland: Doubtful Sound
Wake to the silence of Doubtful Sound (Patea), where this deep, long and narrow inlet, with cliffs, has been formed by glacial erosion over millions of years. You are currently in one of New Zealand’s most pristine environments. Cruise past the outer Seal Islands and spot dolphins, fur seals and possibly the elusive Fiordland crested penguin, or join a guided hike between Deas Cove and Neck Cove and take a swim in the cool, clear and shallow waters.

Stewart Island
Spend 2 days exploring Stewart Island/Rakiura, a haven of native bush, rare wildlife, and quiet charm. Explore Ulva Island, where you might spot a kiwi, bush robins and saddlebacks in their natural habitat. Enjoy guided walks on the Rakiura Track–one of New Zealand’s Great Walks–or visit the remains of a Norwegian whaling station. There’s time to discover the island’s only township, Oban, with its quirky arts scene, community-run theater and friendly locals. Optional Extra: Enjoy a scenic flight with an expert pilot taking in the views of Rakiura National Park, the Ruggedy Ranges and a landing on the golden sands of Mason’s Bay.

Dunedin
Today, arrive in Dunedin, a city shaped by both Scottish heritage and Māori culture. With its grand stone architecture, botanical gardens and steep hills, it offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s colonial past. Throughout the day, guests will experience Dunedin’s unique blend of culture and history on a guided tour. During free time, explore at your own pace, perhaps visit the local art gallery, grab a bite at a local cafe or simply take in the scenery.

Akaroa
Nestled in an ancient volcanic crater, Akaroa is New Zealand’s only French settlement, retaining its charming European character. Cottages and street names nod to its French heritage, while the harbor teems with marine life. Take a scenic harbor cruise to spot Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, sea bird colonies and potentially the endangered Little Penguin.

Kaikoura
Framed by the snow-capped Seaward Kaikōura Ranges, the town of Kaikōura is globally renowned for its whale watching and marine encounters. Once a whaling center, today Kaikōura is a model for eco-tourism and sustainable wildlife conservation. Join a local operator for a guided whale-watching tour, with the chance to see sperm whales, dolphins and even blue whales. On shore, take a walk along the scenic Kaikōura Peninsula. This evening, celebrate the journey so far with festivities on board.

Ship Cove 
Conclude your voyage in the tranquil waters of the Marlborough Sounds, a network of sunken river valleys cloaked in native bush. Anchor at historic Ship Cove (Meretoto), where Captain Cook spent more than 170 days during his Pacific voyages. Learn about the site’s significance through storyboards and interpretation on shore before choosing between two activities: a guided walk along the scenic Queen Charlotte Track from Ship Cove to Resolution Bay, or birdwatching on predator-free Motuara Island. This final day blends nature, history and the serenity of New Zealand’s northernmost sounds.

Accommodations

Coral Adventurer

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

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Day 11
Disembark Wellington, New Zealand

This morning, say farewell to your ship, crew and new-found friends as you disembark at 8:00am. An included post-cruise transfer to the airport or central business district will be available.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Pre- and post-cruise transfers; accommodations as booked; group transfers during the cruise; all meals onboard; 24-hour coffee and tea; captain’s welcome and farewell drinks; selected wines and beers, house spirits, juices and soft drinks with lunch and dinner service; excursions and sightseeing; daily lectures and briefings; use of Xplorer and Zodiac tender vessels; all entrance fees to National Parks, ports, traditional owner fees and charges imposed by governing authorities; use of all onboard facilities, including comprehensive range of library and video resources; standard WiFi on board; expedition photos captured during the voyage; tips and gratuities.

Exclusions

Pre- and post-cruise flights; entry visa and travel permits; personal items such as telephone charges, WiFi upgrades, laundry, bar charges; travel insurance and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. A name change/transfer of the booking to another person is considered a cancellation and cancellation penalties will apply. An AUD200.00 per person fee may be charged for any amendments not requiring a date change after booking is confirmed. There is an AUD500.00 per person fee if a date change is made more than 90 days before departure. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 90 days – 100% of deposit
89 to 60 days – 50% of total trip cost
59 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The South Island & Fiordlands of New Zealand cruise begins in Bluff, New Zealand (connected by an included coach transfer from your independently booked flight to Queenstown, New Zealand (ZQN)), and ends in Wellington, New Zealand (WLG). Guests must arrive in Queenstown one day prior to departure. Plan flights to depart Wellington no earlier than 2:00pm on Day 11. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, land treks, whale watching, wildlife observation, city exploration and cultural visits.

Room Configuration

Limited double occupancy cabins for solo use may be available at a sole use rate in the Coral, Promenade and Explorer Deck categories. Contact AdventureSmith for further details and availability.

Families & Children

Kids 12 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 11 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval.

Travel Insurance

Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

As a condition of travel, guests must provide evidence of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR complete a credit card authorization form for expenses incurred during a medical evacuation. Proof of travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage OR a completed authorization form must be provided prior to boarding.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Listed prices for this trip are based on foreign currency exchange rates and may vary. USD pricing will be calculated at the time of final payment based on the market conversion rate plus a 1% banking conversion fee of total invoiced amount. Please contact AdventureSmith for current pricing.

Dec 16 - Dec 24, 2026
9 days
From $5655USD
Per Person
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Dec 24 - Jan 03, 2027
11 days
From $6590USD
Per Person
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Read More
Expert Review

Reviews From Our Experts so You Know What to Expect

Andrew Browning • June 1st, 2016
Expert Review: What It's Like on a Fiordland National Park Cruise

Learn what to expect on an overnight Fiordland National Park cruise with AdventureSmith Explorations in New Zealand. One of our Adventure Specialists reports from the field, fjord, deck & paddleboard.

Our experts will save you hours.

A single conversation with us is worth hours of internet scrolling. Find your next best trip with ease, then book with the confidence of our 20+ year experience.

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