Heritage Explorer
- capacity
- 18
- year built
- 2004
- crew members
- 6
- length
- 98 feet
- beam
- 25 feet
- draft
- 6 feet
- cruising speed
- 10 knots
- flag
- New Zealand
The Heritage Explorer expedition yacht is ready to reveal New Zealand’s best-kept secrets and must-see places. Come aboard this 18-guest ship to explore some of the most remote and biologically rich regions with experienced guides. On board, enjoy comfortable spaces, sophisticated food and beverages, and warm camaraderie.
Heritage Explorer Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Heritage Explorer review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Heritage Explorer ship review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Heritage Explorer with other small cruise ships and yachts offering New Zealand small ship cruises, including private charter cruises.
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Choose the Heritage Explorer for a ship purpose-built by Kiwis to cruise New Zealand. This spacious yacht offers room to stretch out, and the intimate group size to encourage newfound friendships. Her hydraulic aft ramp provides a stable, level means to get on and off the ship. And her optional, private al fresco dining is a great way to enjoy her elevated onboard cuisine and celebrated regional wines. Lastly, her two solo cabins offer the uncommon opportunity to travel without paying a solo supplement.
Design & Sustainability
Built in 2004 by renowned wooden boat building company Carey’s Boatyard in Picton, New Zealand, the Heritage Explorer is purpose-built for small group expedition cruising among New Zealand’s magical fjords. The design mirrors the ethos of operator Heritage Expeditions’ conservation-minded approach to cruising, which they’ve been sharing with travelers since 1984. This yacht delivers both comfort and big adventure via her dual 653-horsepower engines, bow thrusters, fin stabilizers and sound-conscious twin generators.
Onboard Facilities
Heritage Explorer offers a balance of private spaces and engaging common areas, all on a spacious yacht for only 18 guests. WiFi and an in-room satellite phone are available at added cost, and shared binoculars are available upon request. Warm wood accents, wide staircases, colorful framed artwork, brimming bookshelves, coffee and tea stations, walls of windows, and plush seating and floors make this yacht feel like home. The Bridge invites guests to sit alongside the captain, or stand outside under cover and watch for wildlife.
The dining room offers panoramic views from every table, plus the capability to become a home theater. The lounge and bar provide a cozy setting to enjoy renowned New Zealand wines, beers and spirits. The food on board is top notch, prepared fresh daily by a passionate chef. Guests can expect dishes that showcase local produce and perhaps even your catch of the day. An added bonus of dining aboard Heritage Explorer is the option for private al fresco dining—or enjoy casual, open-seating meals with fellow guests.
Off-Ship Activities
Heritage Explorer puts a spotlight on daily off-ship excursions, assisted by two tender vessels, kayaks and a hydraulic aft ramp (ideal for entering and exiting the water with ease). The large, water-level swim step provides a platform for swimming right off the back of the ship. Special snorkeling and diving charters come equipped with gear for guests to enjoy the underwater world.
Travelers will get off the ship daily to explore beautiful beaches, historical places of interest, crystalline waters and dense forests. Expedition guides lead activities featuring wine, paddling, walking, hiking and swimming. Back on board, guests are free to enjoy relaxing in various inviting spaces, or fishing from the open deck.
Crew, Guides & Expedition Leaders
Knowledgeable expedition guides are ready to both lead guests into special wilderness areas, as well as explain the local conservation efforts and provide education around regional flora and fauna. Travelers can soak up insights from guides with backgrounds in botany, zoology, ecology, conservation, marine biology, history, photography and more, with regular lectures on board.
Cabins & Heritage Explorer Deck Plan
The 9 cabins and 1 suite on board, including 2 dedicated solo cabins, provide a flexible platform for guest groups of varying sizes and needs. Named after local varieties of albatross, cabins aim for comfort with full air-conditioning, ample storage via a wardrobe and drawers, a private ensuite bathroom with shower, TV and satellite telephone.
