New Zealand Wonders & Mystic Fjords

The Tasmanian capital, Hobart, always makes an impression, from the boats bobbing in its harbour to its thought-provoking art galleries such as MONA and produce-driven restaurants. As you board Scenic Eclipse II for your Signature Yacht Cruise, you'll be warmly welcomed by the Captain and crew with a glass of Champagne.

Settle into your spacious verandah suite, meet your butler, and explore the world-class facilities of your Scenic Discovery Yacht.

Begin your morning at sea with a refreshing dip in the Vitality pool on Deck 10, followed by a leisurely coffee at the Observation Lounge. Alternatively, join an early guided meditation session, embracing the tranquillity of the open sea.

Every day on board Scenic Eclipse II, a true culinary journey awaits, with up to 10 extraordinary all-inclusive culinary experiences and eight bars and lounges. You may decide to return to the Yacht Club for lunch, or opt for Azure Bar & Café, where you can graze throughout the day.

Visit the open bridge on Deck 7 to meet the Captain and navigational team and gain first-hand insight into a Scenic Discovery Yacht's state-of-the-art technology from one of the most inspiring vantage points on board.

Spend your second day at sea in the indulgent Senses Spa on Deck 6. Inside this luxurious retreat you can be pampered with a range of ESPA treatments# as well as alternative therapies like Tibetan bowl sound healing. After your treatment, cool off in the Vitality Pool or warm up in the exclusive KLAFS Salt Therapy Lounge.

Unwind in the Observation Lounge, where you can settle into a comfortable chair with a board game, a book from the library or use the Swarovski telescopes to take in the passing scenery.

In the evening, savour contemporary French fine dining at Lumière+ complete with a Champagne bar, or the freshest Japanese at the Sushi & Saké Bar @ Koko's, for a truly remarkable culinary journey.

The rugged West Coast of New Zealand's South Island offers some of the country's most stunning scenery. You'll cruise through Fiordland National Park, which covers more than 1.2 million hectares of granite peaks, shimmering lakes, deep black fjords and spectacular waterfalls.

Rudyard Kipling described Milford Sound as the ‘eighth wonder of the world'. The best way to experience the sound is from the water and today Scenic Eclipse II will cruise slowly through this spectacular place, coming close to land so you can admire the waterfalls tumbling from 1,000-metre cliffs and look out for seals sunning themselves on the rocks. You may like to join fellow guests on the Sky Deck to watch the magic unfold over a cocktail.

Step into history as you cruise Doubtful Sound, named by Captain Cook in 1770 when its narrow entrance persuaded him to sail elsewhere. Today, its breathtaking beauty is wonderfully secluded, offering a serene escape. Glide past towering cliffs, keep an eye out for playful bottlenose dolphins, and perhaps spot the elusive Fiordland crested penguin along the shore.

Then, venture further south to Dusky Sound, one of New Zealand's largest and most dramatic fjords, stretching over 40 kilometres. Accessible only by air or sea, its remote grandeur ensures an intimate experience few ever witness, a true highlight for the discerning traveller.

Later, gather at the Yacht Club for a relaxed lunch with panoramic views, or retreat to the Observation Lounge where Swarovski telescopes bring the fjords into focused view.

At the southern tip of the South Island, Bluff is one of New Zealand's oldest European settlements, its history shaped by whaling, fishing and the waters of Foveaux Strait. Its cool, nutrient-rich seas nurture one of the world's most renowned natural oyster beds, with Bluff oysters regarded as a seasonal delicacy. Ashore, the town's working harbour, modest streets and sea views convey an authentic sense of place, offering a glimpse into the resilient character of this remote southern port.

Return on board for dinner at Elements, where the menu's fresh seafood selections provide a fitting tribute to Bluff's maritime heritage.

Stewart Island sits 30 kilometres off the southern tip of the South Island. It is one of the last inhabited outposts before you reach Antarctica. Its only settlement, the tiny village of Oban, clings bravely to the northern shore.

This is New Zealand off the grid, a remote place of spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. The island is a haven for many birds, including the cute and curious brown kiwi, who outnumber humans and are active day and night. The Maori name for Stewart Island is Rakiura, which means the land of glowing skies.

This evening, perhaps dine at Koko's Asian Fusion, or unwind at the Sky Bar as the remote island fades into the distance.

Wake up in Port Chalmers, the gateway to Dunedin, one of New Zealand's most historic cities. Founded in 1848, it has a proud Scottish lineage – in fact, Dunedin takes its name from the old Gaelic for Edinburgh, Dùn Èideann. Stroll the well-preserved streets to admire grand Victorian and Edwardian architecture, much of it built on wealth from the Otago gold rush.

Outside town, the surrounding Otago Peninsula is regarded as one of the country's leading wildlife and eco-tourism destinations, where you can look out for abundant birdlife, penguins, seals and sea lions.

Back on board, indulge in a treatment# at the Senses Spa, or gather with fellow guests at the Scenic Lounge Bar, where over 130 varieties of whiskey await.

You'll arrive in Kaikoura early this morning. This tiny town sits in a spectacular natural environment, flanked by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the snow-capped Seaward Kaikoura Range on the other.

The town began life as a whaling station in the mid 1800s; visit the oldest surviving building, Fyffe House, or the Kaikoura Museum to learn more about its history. It's also an ideal place for wildlife encounters. Whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in these waters, and an impressive array of seabirds fill the air, including the mighty albatross.

This evening, perhaps enjoy French fine dining at Lumière+, then end the night with a drink in hand, sharing stories with fellow guests as live music plays in the Scenic Lounge Bar.

Wellington sits astride the Cook Strait, its harbour ringed by steep, villa-dotted hills and a compact, walkable centre. Rather than dwell on its “Windy City” reputation, locals focus on culture: the distinctive Beehive parliament building, a thriving café scene and a strong design sensibility in its boutiques, small galleries and studios. The acclaimed national museum, Te Papa Tongarewa, offers a thoughtful exploration of Aotearoa's natural history and Maori and Pacific identities. Wellington is also the heart of New Zealand's film industry – often nicknamed “Wellywood” – with creative hubs such as Weta Workshop associated with celebrated productions including The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Return on board for Night Market @ Koko's+, where street food storytelling and teppanyaki flavours echo Wellington's creative energy.

Arriving in Napier, it can feel as though the clock has paused in the 1930s. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the city centre was almost entirely rebuilt in the Art Deco style of the era, with clean lines, pastel facades and geometric detailing. Today, its palm-lined streets, sunlit promenades and carefully preserved buildings create one of the world's finest concentrations of authentic Art Deco architecture, complemented by a relaxed café culture and easy access to Hawke's Bay's acclaimed vineyards.

After a day of exploring ashore, you might retreat to Senses Spa and the KLAFS infrared sauna, letting the gentle heat ease your muscles and restore your energy for the evening's experiences.

Gisborne, known affectionately as “Gizzy”, is celebrated as one of the first cities in the world to greet the new day. Its relaxed coastal atmosphere is complemented by a strong food and wine culture, with vineyards in the surrounding Tairawhiti region particularly noted for expressive whites and rich Chardonnay. Long, surf-washed beaches, a compact town centre and a growing focus on local producers give Gisborne a quietly confident, distinctly East Coast character.

Back on board, unwind at Azure Bar & Café with a glass of New Zealand Chardonnay, or retreat to your suite where your butler can arrange private in-suite dining.

Today your Scenic Discovery Yacht docks at Mount Maunganui, a relaxed beachside town just across the harbour from Tauranga. A graceful volcanic cone rises above a long, curving surf beach and sheltered inner bay, with coastal paths leading to wide views over the Bay of Plenty. Nearby Tauranga, New Zealand's busiest port, offers a revitalised waterfront lined with cafés, restaurants and bars, adding an urban gloss to the region's otherwise easygoing, holiday atmosphere.

This evening, after a delicious meal, savour a nightcap at the Sky Bar on the Sky Deck, watching the ocean drift by as you reflect on your incredible journey.

You'll end your journey in the nation's largest city, Auckland. Home to around a third of the entire New Zealand population, Auckland is a stylish, cosmopolitan city set around two grand harbours. It's packed with fascinating museums, world-class art galleries and stylish shops featuring local designers. Savour one last delightful breakfast on board, reminiscing on the unforgettable moments shared during your voyage. Bid farewell to your fellow guests and the Scenic Eclipse II crew, then disembark to continue your travels or begin your journey home.

#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates.

+All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.

^Experiences on board our two helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather and ice conditions.

~Kayak and stand-up paddleboard not available in all locations.

Submersible not in operation in New Zealand.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.