JUST CRUISING
Grant, Tanya and Kristin (pictured l to r) recently reviewed the very sleek Scenic Eclipse II whilst in port in Auckland. Scenic is a respected Australian brand best known for European River cruises and tours but has recently built Scenic Eclipse I and II to take on the small ship luxury and exploration cruise market. With only 114 guest suites, this ship is surprisingly spacious and unlike other smaller ship provides up to four restaurant options. The Scenic Eclipse unique feature is that they come complete with two H130-T2 black helicopters providing a very distinct point on difference. You can access special helicopter sightseeing tours when in exciting locations such as the Kimberley, Antarctica, Arctic and the Med however the Captain told us that the heli-sightseeing with the best feedback and which rated the highest on ‘wow factor’ was around their various ports of call in the South Island.
Australia based Aurora Expeditions’ newest purpose-built polar vessel, Douglas Mawson has just been launched in Sydney. Mawson is known as one of the greatest Antarctic explorers and the new vessel is christened in his honour. Like the two sister-ships in the Aurora fleet, the distinctive X-BOW hull is highly recommended for the Drake Passage (between Argentina and Antarctica). Douglas Mawson features contemporary staterooms, panoramic observation lounges, expansive open-air decks, as well as Aurora’s signature Citizen Science Centre where working scientists join you on your expedition cruise. Uniquely the new ship offers dedicated solo cabins. The new vessel is currently on a 10-night circumnavigation of Tasmania and will continue to Antarctica, the Sub-Antarctic Islands, and later Europe and the Arctic. Our team has experienced Antarctica so let us know if you would like to chat with an expert.
And here is a unique ‘no – stop’ cruise with Ponant, a positioning cruise sailing non-stop between Dunedin and Lautoka, Fiji. Your resort becomes the elegant small ship Ponant Le Soleal for 8 days, 16 to 23 Feb 2026 & 15 to 22 Feb 2027. On this rare ocean voyage from Dunedin to Lautoka, you will enjoy the unhurried pace of a true sea journey, share in the daily life of the crew, learn about sailing techniques and traditional instruments, and take pleasure in world-class cuisine. This could be the perfect lead-in to a Fijian holiday. No single supplement so perfect for solo travellers or groups where everyone has their own luxury cabin. Book now to SAVE up to 20%* + No Single Supplement available.
Register your interest with our Team (your usual Consultant or nz.leisure@atpi.com or telephone during office hours).