|
Destinations & Shoreside Expeditions
|
|
|||||
|
||||||
| Auckland, New Zealand – Embark |
|
Latitude: 36°53'S Longitude: 174°46'E |
|
In the Maori language Auckland is known as Tamaki Makau Rau, the city of 100 lovers, having earned the name because it was a place desired by all and conquered by many. The setting is spectacular, the city being nestled upon three harbours - the Waitemata, the Manukau and the Kaipara. Don't miss the chance to dine out in Auckland as the city has perfected the style of cuisine called "Pacific Rim", blending Asian and Pacific flavours. Seafood features prominently on restaurant menus so be sure to try New Zealand green lipped mussels and succulent Clevedon Coast oysters - all matched with an excellent New Zealand wine. |
| back to top |
| Bay of Islands, New Zealand – Dry landing |
|
Latitude: 35°14'S Longitude: 174º11'E |
|
Of all New Zealand's cruising grounds, the Bay of Islands is probably the finest - endless sheltered bays, clear, clean water and a climate that is consistently warmer than anywhere else in the country. The Bay of Islands was the first area in New Zealand to be settled by Europeans, Captain Cook being the first to visit the area and name the region in 1769. This settlement was once a bustling seafaring and political base fusing Maori and European cultures as the area was inhabited by ship deserters, whalers, sealers and sailors. It's a sweet irony that the town described in the lawless late 1800's as 'the hellhole of the Pacific' is now one of New Zealand’s most refined places to visit. Included Expeditions Orion guests will have access to the picturesque town of Russell. A shuttle bus is included and a guided town walk lasting one hour is available. Optional Shoreside Expeditions CAPE REINGA FLIGHT AND TOUR The initial stage of the tour consists of a flight up to Cape Reinga via Northlands picturesque harbours, such as the Whangaroa Harbour and the Rangaunu Harbour. We will pass over some beautiful beaches such as Coopers Beach, Doubtless Bay and of course the world famous Ninety Mile Beach. From Ninety Mile Beach we fly inland to the airfield which is only 20Km from the Cape Reinga lighthouse. Once you have landed, a vehicle will meet the aircraft to begin the Cape Reinga ground tour. This portion of your tour is approximately 2½ hours around the top of New Zealand in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. The tour includes the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, Tapotupotu Bay and the Te Paki stream with its giant sand dunes; (there are sleds available for those who wish to slide down the dunes which is advisable as it is great fun). When the ground tour is complete we will arrive back at the airfield for the return flight home. The flight back to the Bay of Islands will feature the other side of the coastline and includes spectacular scenery such as the Parengarenga Harbour and Great Exhibition Bay, which are only visible by air or by sea. This area is very remote and without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand with it’s pure white Silica sand and crystal clear waters. Please note this flight must be prebooked and if cancelled within 7 days of departure a 100% cancellation fee applies. Duration: Half Day - pm Cost: $370 per person includes afternoon tea - price to be confirmed WAKA TAIA-MAI - A MAORI JOURNEY Northland is the birthplace of a nation and the Ngapuhi Tribe of the Bay of Islands is the largest group of Maori in New Zealand. You will be taken on your Waka journey by a member of the Ngapuhi family. This tour has been cited as one of the best cultural experiences in Northland’s Bay of Islands, they will introduce you to sights of significance and heritage landscapes, making for a perfect combination of history and scenic beauty. As your Waka voyage begins you start to feel and sense the spiritually of this journey as you paddle your way up the peaceful and tranquil estuaries of the Waitangi River aboard the 50 ft traditional Maori Waka (canoe). Awe-inspiring is how to describe your arrival at the bottom of the Haruru waterfalls, a spiritual place of the Maori. With commentary and interpretation from the Maori warrior guides, we continue our voyage until we arrive in front of the Maori Marae where some of the local tribal members will greet you from the riverbanks. The Waka voyages are a perfect combination of eco landscapes and interactive cultural encounters. With a maximum of 18 people permitted on the Waka on any one of our voyages, we guarantee you will go back to Orion knowing you have met and spent time with the Ngapuhi, the original inhabitants of Northland. Duration: 2 Hours Cost: $75 per person - price to be confirmed BAY OF ISLANDS BY HELICOPTER Capture the essence of the Bay of Islands in just 20 minutes, on this aerial adventure by helicopter. Experience unparalleled views of picturesque islands, magnificent sandy beaches and superb coastal scenery. Of particular interest is Moturua Island, where the French navigator Marion du Fresne set up a shore base for his two vessels in 1772, unaware that Captain Cook had already claimed New Zealand for the British Crown. Fly over game fishing waters to Cape Brett before viewing the lighthouse and Piercy Island (Motukokako) with its famous “hole-in-the-rock.” During the return flight, you will see Urupukapuka Island where renowned author Zane Grey set up his game fishing headquarters in the 1920s. This flight tour is about superb scenery and stunning photographs! Please note this flight must be prebooked and if cancelled within 7 days of departure a 100% cancellation fee applies. Duration: 20 minutes Cost: $180 per person - price to be confirmed WAITANGI ESTUARY BY SEA KAYAK There is no better way to explore the Waitangi Esturary than on this scenic and peaceful sea kayak adventure. Your knowledgeable guide will explain the complexities of the mangrove ecosystem as you paddle to the base of Haruru Falls. No prior kayaking experience is required – this tour is suitable for all ages and all levels of experience. From the pier in Waitangi, you will walk a short distance to the beach where you will be met by your guides and receive instructions in basic paddling technique. After a safety briefing, you will be ready to set out across the sheltered waters of the Bay of Islands to Waitangi Estuary. Exploring the mangrove forest, your guide will explain this complex ecosystem while pointing out wildlife before continuing up the estuary to the base of Haruru Falls. After a rest and refreshments of coffee or tea, you will return to Waitangi Beach. Duration: 4 Hours Cost: $65 per person - price to be confirmed KAURI CLIFFS GOLF, BAY OF ISLANDS Kauri Cliffs Golf Course is currently ranked number 63 in the world and number 2 in New Zealand (behind sister course – Cape Kidnappers). In the short time since they have been open they have received many accolades from golf and travel publications in several countries worldwide. The golf course itself plays along the beautiful coast and features 15 holes that have ocean view and 6 holes that play along the plunging cliffs to the expansive South Pacific. The experience at Kauri Cliffs is nothing less than first-class. Tee times are separated by 15-minute intervals allowing a leisurely round of golf and plenty of time to take photographs of the spectacular scenery the area has to offer. 2-Person Package Inclusive of Green Fee, Electric Cart Hire, Lunch Snack Pack, and Return Transfers ex Waitangi Wharf Cost Per Person $610 - price to be confirmed 4-Person Package Inclusive of Green Fee, Electric Cart Hire, Lunch Snack Pack, and Return Transfers ex Waitangi Wharf Cost Per Person $555 - price to be confirmed 6-Person Package Inclusive of Green Fee, Electric Cart Hire, Lunch Snack Pack, and Return Transfers ex Waitangi Wharf Cost Per Person $525 - price to be confirmed 8-Person Package Inclusive of Green Fee, Electric Cart Hire, Lunch Snack Pack, and Return Transfers ex Waitangi Wharf Cost Per Person $520 - price to be confirmed BAY OF ISLANDS FISHING New Zealand's Bay of Islands has a world wide reputation as an angler’s Eldorado. All World and National Records for Striped Marlin, Yellowtail Kingfish and Snapper are held on this coast. Dotted with 144 islands and a myriad of secluded beaches, the entire region offers a fantastic opportunity to fish in waters that are rich with an abundance of sea life! All bait, quality rods and fishing tackle are included plus morning tea or coffee and lunch with departure from Paihia, Waitangi or Russell Wharf. It is not unusual to be treated to extras such as sighting of dolphins, seals, various ocean birdlife, shark action and even the occasional whale. Your fishing experience will target Yellowtail Kingfish / Reef fishing or Saltwater Fly fishing. Duration: 6 Hours Price: $265 per person - price to be confirmed |
| back to top |
| Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu – Wet landing |
|
Latitude: 15°33'S Longitude: 167°10'E |
|
During WWII James A Michener, then a lieutenant in the American Army, was stationed in Santo along with 100,000 other army personnel. Such was the effect of this place on him that here he wrote the legendary Tales of the South Pacific. From Espiritu Santo, Michener would gaze across the sea to the volcanic island of Ambae, often with its summit shrouded in cloud and dream of "Bali Hai". Relics and reminders of the war remain everywhere today. Around town you will still see military-constructed Quonset huts, there are four airfields and a mecca for divers is the 22,000 ton luxury liner/wartime troopship President Coolidge, the largest intact shipwreck accessible to scuba divers in the world. When the US military failed to sell surplus equipment at the end of the war, instead of leaving it behind they drove it into the sea at what is now known as Million Dollar Point. |
| back to top |
| Ghizo & Kennedy Islands, Solomons |
|
Gizo, Ghizo Island – Dry Landing Latitude: 08°07'S Longitude: 156°50'E Be up early this morning as Orion threads her way through the coral reef lined approaches to the harbour. In the east lies the island of Kolombangara with its perfectly conical dormant volcano covered in rainforest. Capital of the Western Province, and the largest town in the Solomons after Honiara, Gizo is a remnant of times past. Wander the waterfront past the produce market and you'll find the main street has the feel of a South Pacific outpost with dark, cool trading stores crammed full of every kind of necessity. Street vendors offer stone and wooden carvings. For a taste of traditional village life, climb into the back of an open pick-up truck for a trip along the coast where the bumpy ride is more than compensated for by a procession of scenic delights - untouched beaches, riotous tropical foliage and villages signposted by giggling children. Gizo is a mecca for divers, with the wreck of the Japanese supply ship Toa Maru a justifiably famous dive experience. Kennedy Islands – Wet Landing Latitude: 08°05'S Longitude: 156°54'E Over lunch Orion will depart Gizo Harbour and drift at anchor nearby Kennedy Island, so-named for a famous castaway. During WWII John F. Kennedy was captain of PT-109 when, on 2 August 1943, his patrol boat was cut in two by the Japanese destroyer Amagiri in Blackett Strait. The survivors clung to the still floating bow section before swimming ashore to this tiny island later named in his honour. Zodiacs will land you ashore this afternoon where you may snorkel over the coral reef alive with stag horn coral of every hue, or simply take 10-15 minutes to walk around this tiny uninhabited island. |
| back to top |
| Isle of Pines, New Caledonia – Wet landing |
|
Latitude: 22°40'S Longitude: 167°28'E |
|
"Such a lovely spot of God's creation" was the journal entry of Andrew Cheyne, the first British sandalwood trader to reach Isle of Pines' shores 165 years ago. Known as Kunie to its Melanesian inhabitants, the island is part of the French-Pacific territory New Caledonia. Today there are roughly 2,000 inhabitants, 95% of whom are Melanesians or Kanaks. For traditional, cultural and social reasons, these indigenous Kunie people are formed into eight tribes, each with their own 'little chief' and governed as a whole by a High Chief. Vao is the only village on the island and, as an indigenous preserve, land is neither available for sale or rent. Wander the island, meet the locals (a little French will come in handy) or bask on the fine, white sand beaches. The ruins of the convict settlement that housed 2,000 deported prisoners in the 1870's invite exploration or just grab a mask and fins for snorkelling. |
| back to top |
| Malakula, Vanuatu – Wet landing |
|
Latitude: 16°29'S Longitude: 167°34'E |
|
Malakula is the second largest island in the Vanuatu group, once known as The Cannibal Islands due to the fierce reputation of the predominant tribal groups known as the big and small Nambas. The island is also the most diverse, culturally and linguistically, with over thirty distinct languages spoken. Sandalwood does not grow on the island and so it attracted little interest from the ruthless sea traders of the 1800s, leaving the culture virtually intact and the inhabitants unscathed by the slaving and introduced Western diseases prevalent elsewhere in the South Pacific. Included Expeditions Our landing today is planned for South West Bay. Here we will be greeted by the local people who will share their culture with us throughout the day. Learn of the traditions and customs of the Malakula people though our unique cultural program. |
| back to top |
| Ngella (Florida Islands) – Wet landing |
|
Latitude: 9°00'N Longitude: 160°07'E |
|
After a few hours to see the megapodes on Savo, the ship will reposition across Iron Bottom Sound to Nggela Island, part of an area named by the early Spanish explorers as the Florida Islands. On the south Western shores of Nggela is Tulagi Harbour and Tulagi Island, the one-time British capital of the Solomons Protectorate and a significant Japanese base during WWII. Tulagi was the scene of some very heavy fighting after landings by US Marines. Our destination this afternoon is Roderick Bay inside Sandfly Passage. A stunning white sand beach with huge trees growing right down to the water’s edge with abundant marine life living in colourful coral reefs a few metres off shore in the crystal clear waters awaits us here. To add to the this stunning environment, nosed up onto the beach, listing heavily to its port side is the wreck of the World Discoverer, a cruise ship beached here in 2001 after an unfortunate mishap in the top half of Sandfly Passage (our vessel will not be entering into that area). Snorkel around the wreck, which now has large ferns growing where the spa pool was and fig trees spreading across the anchor deck. This place has to be seen to be believed. Paradise with its very own (permanent) cruise ship! Included Expeditions This afternoon Orion guests will Zodiac ashore to enjoy cultural performances, a village visit and experience the beautiful beach perfect for swimming, snorkelling or just relaxing. |
| back to top |
| Port Vila, Vanuatu – Dry landing |
|
Latitude: 17°48’S Longitude: 168°15'E |
|
Port Vila is the capital and largest town of the republic of Vanuatu, southwestern Pacific Ocean. Located on Mele Bay on the southwest coast of Éfaté, Vila is a port and the commercial centre of the island group. In the 19th century, French settlers established the municipality of Franceville, which declared independence in 1889 and became the first self-governing nation to practice universal suffrage without distinction of sex or race. Although the population at the time consisted of about 500 native islanders and less than 50 whites, only the latter were permitted to hold office. Although the town is French in appearance, the population is multinational, including British, French, Vanuatuans, and Vietnamese. Optional Shoreside Expedition INTRODUCTION TO PORT VILA This is a great way to get your orientation in the sleepy port capital of Vanuatu. This tour will take you past the Parliament House, the Museum, the British and French prison houses, hospitals from the colonial years and other various points of interest. You will also drive through the main shopping area of the town and the local markets. Your tour finishes at the Anchor Inn where you will be received by the friendly staff, have a chance to sit down for a complimentary drink and take in the beautiful view of Port Vila Harbour. Duration: 3 hours approximately Cost: $65 per person – price to be confirmed |
| back to top |
| Rabaul, Papua New Guinea – Disembark |
|
Latitude: 04°12'S Longitude: 152°10'E |
|
The tropical port town of Rabaul has always been famous for its spectacular setting at the eastern end of the island of New Britain. Nestled on Simpson Harbour, the township is surrounded by six volcanoes providing a sensational backdrop for our visit. Musicians, drummers and traditional dancers heraldour arrival, providing a boisterous welcome. The Volcano Observatory affords panoramic views of the harbour but a helicopter flight is the ideal way to take in the scale of the 1994 eruptions that destroyed two-thirds of Rabaul. You'll fly over empty streets and what was the town's municipal swimming pool - now just an outline of blue ceramic tiles, the pool filled with ash. Rabaul was the focus of fierce battles during World War II and the steep coastal cliffs are riddled with tunnels filled with relics. Explore Admiral Yamamoto's bunker and touch the wreck of a Japanese Betty Bomber for intimate reminders of the Japanese presence. This evening join the expedition team on an encounter with the surreal Baining Fire Dancers whose elaborate costumes and trance-like dance will leave you with an unforgettable conclusion to your voyage. |
| back to top |
| Santa Ana Island, Solomons – Wet landing |
|
Latitude: 10°50'S Longitude: 162°27'E |
|
Early this morning Orion will navigate through the picturesque channel separating Santa Ana and Santa Catalina Islands before dropping anchor on the west coast of Santa Ana just outside shallow Mary Bay. The islanders are well known for preserving ancient traditions so as we step ashore from the Zodiacs don't be surprised if we are greeted by songs and elaborately costumed dancers. The craft work from Santa Ana includes magnificently carved fishing floats, ceremonial black bowls inlaid with shells and intricate animal designs. In the afternoon, snorkel or dive the reefs to view clownfish, soldierfish and brilliantly hued wrasses. Included Expeditions Today Orion guests can expect a lively cultural performance from the local villagers who will also have their woodwork and artefacts on display available for purchase. The opportunity of swimming and snorkelling in the azure waters surrounding this remote island is also offered for your relaxation today. |
| back to top |
| Tanna Island, Vanuatu – Wet landing |
|
Latitude: 19°30'S Longitude: 169°20'E |
|
As we approach this morning, the first thing we will sight is the island's active volcano, Mount Yasur. Shortly after Orion drops her anchor in protected Port Resolution, named by Captain James Cook in 1774, your expedition team will venture ashore to scout a landing site. A guided walk up the side of the volcano's rim (300 metres wide and 100 metres deep) affords views of the crater which often spews rocks and ash in a spectacular pyrotechnic display. We may also have time to examine the other natural phenomena of the volcano: the ragged coastline honeycombed with lava rock, the hot springs on the beaches and the Ash Plain, with its grey moon-like landscape. Tanna is also known for the Jon Frum religious movement. Tanna is the origin of the region's Cargo Cults and ever since WWII the locals still expect Jon "Frum" America to bring wealth from over the sea. |
| back to top |
| Utupua Island, Solomons – Wet landing |
|
Latitude: 11°15'S Longitude: 166°30'E |
|
Part of the volcanic Santa Cruz Island group, the remote and rarely visited Utupua has been described as a small Bora Bora with its lagoon and barrier reef surrounding the high island. The Zodiacs will take us down the fjordlike channel lined by marshy mangroves into the heart of the island. Once ashore you'll find the island is densely forested, the island's 750 inhabitants cultivating lush vegetable gardens in the rich volcanic soil. We may be invited to climb a jungle pathway up the hillside where a magnificent view of the island's reef-enclosed perimeter is revealed. The island's barrier reef offers great opportunities for snorkelling over brilliant coral formations teeming with fish. Ports of call may be subject to weather and tidal conditions, and are subject to change. * All Shoreside Expeditions, itineraries, destinations, times of arrivals/departures and prices are subject to change without prior notice and may vary due to unforeseen circumstances or cost variations. If minimum passenger numbers are not reached programs may be cancelled. Click here to download full Shoreside Expeditions Conditions of Contract |
| back to top |
