Coastal Cruise
14 day New Zealand’s Islands & Fiordland
Coastal Exploration of New Zealand’s Islands, Fiordland, Plants & Gardens
Embark the small ship, Heritage Adventurer, for an 11-night cruise along the eastern coasts of New Zealand’s North and South islands, as well as Stewart Island and remarkable Fiordland. See the award-winning Hamilton Gardens, as well as several private gardens, and sail into secluded harbours in search of diverse seabird species. Spend two days exploring the spectacular wilderness of Dusky and Doubtful sounds before concluding amid the alpine landscapes of Queenstown.
This journey departs:
11 November 2026
Highlights
The following highlights provide an overview of some of the captivating encounters awaiting you on tour.
Stewart Island and Fiordland
Discover the birdlife of Stewart Island. Then absorb the astonishing wilderness of Dusky, Doubtful and Milford Sound.
Hamilton Gardens
See the many themed gardens at Hamilton Gardens, which was awarded the prestigious International Garden of the year in 2014.
Visit The Giant’s House
Explore The Giants House, in Akaroa, an eclectic house and garden containing several fanciful, mosaic sculptures.
Botanical Guide - Julie Prent
Be escorted by an expert Botanical Guide, who will offer insightful talks on various topics and be available for informal discussions, enriching your travel experience.
Inclusions
Seen below are your tour’s inclusions. They ensure you’re free to enjoy each day’s discoveries without worry or distraction.
Escorted by an expert Botanical Guide, Cruise Director and Expedition Team
11-night cruise aboard the Heritage Adventurer for up to 28 Botanica guests, one nights’ accommodation in a centrally located four-star hotel in Auckland and Queenstown
Return private transfers from door to door, tipping and porterage, port taxes, plus 36 meals and select beverages
All sightseeing, shore excursions and entrance fees as per the itinerary
Learn from your Botanical Guide and specialist expedition team about the unique and endemic plants of New Zealand as well as the birdlife
Visit Stewart Island as well as the Fiords of Dusky and Doubtful Sounds
Explore private gardens and meet their owners
See magnificent Abel Tasman National Park, Marlborough Sound and Hamilton Gardens
Itinerary
Trip Notes
Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
Fitness rating: Medium
Shared charter for up to 28 Botanica guests aboard the Heritage Adventurer, which has a capacity of 140 guests. Cruise is in partnership with Heritage Expeditions.
Our experience of gardens, their flora, and other aspects of nature, is subject to weather conditions and seasonality, which may vary
During our voyage, circumstances may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. This can include poor weather and opportunities for making unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed.