Australia & New Zealand Holidays is a subsidiary of the Travelcation Group
Embark on an unforgettable voyage through New Zealand’s breathtaking Marlborough Sounds. Known for its tranquil waterways, lush forests, and dramatic coastlines, this journey offers an in-depth exploration of Queen Charlotte and Pelorus Sounds, French Pass, and d’Urville Island. Begin your adventure in Blenheim before sailing through Queen Charlotte Sound, where you’ll learn about Captain Cook’s historic visits and explore predator-free islands teeming with rare birdlife, including the endangered Orange-fronted Parakeet.
As the cruise continues, you’ll sail through the iconic French Pass, a narrow channel steeped in history and named after French explorer Dumont d’Urville. Witness the spectacular natural beauty of d’Urville Island, home to sea cliffs, dolphins, and New Zealand Fur Seals. The journey then takes you to Pelorus Sound, with its scenic 55-kilometre main channel surrounded by verdant hills. Explore the hidden gems of Nydia Bay and learn about the area’s conservation successes.
Each day of this expedition brings you closer to New Zealand’s pristine wilderness, where you’ll discover remarkable wildlife, cultural history, and conservation efforts. With expert naturalist guides and opportunities for exploration by Zodiac and kayak, this cruise offers a deep connection with the land and sea, creating lasting memories of one of the country’s most scenic regions.
Arrive at the designated meeting point in Blenheim, where you’ll be transferred to Heritage Explorer in Picton. Once aboard, the Captain and Expedition Team will welcome you and show you to your cabin. After settling in, join fellow travellers and the Expedition Team as we begin our journey along the scenic Queen Charlotte Sound.
Overnight in Queen Charlotte Sound.
Spend two full days exploring the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sound, first sighted by Abel Tasman in 1642 and later visited by Captain Cook. Enjoy opportunities to walk sections of the Queen Charlotte Walkway, search for birdlife on predator-free islands, and visit Tory Channel, where you’ll learn about the Perano Whalers’ history. Visit Ship Cove to explore the memorial to Captain Cook and admire the conservation success on Blumine Island, home to the rare Orange-fronted Parakeet.
Overnight in Queen Charlotte Sound.
Today we sail through French Pass, named after French explorer Dumont d’Urville, to the outermost island in the Marlborough Sounds, d’Urville Island. With its imposing sea cliffs and rugged mountainous terrain, the island offers breathtaking views. The surrounding waters are often visited by dolphins and New Zealand fur seals. Learn about Pelorus Jack, the famous Risso’s Dolphin who guided ships through these waters between 1888 and 1912.
Overnight in d’Urville Island.
Explore Pelorus Sound, the largest of the Marlborough Sounds, with its winding channels, sheltered coves, and verdant hills. Discover Ngawhakawhiti Bay, which offers a glimpse of the sounds before native forests were cleared. Enjoy a walk along the Nydia Track and explore Nydia Bay. Celebrate the journey with a farewell dinner, reflecting on the natural beauty and rich history you’ve experienced.
Overnight in Pelorus Sound.
As we arrive in the inner reaches of Pelorus Sound, enjoy a final breakfast on board. Afterward, a Zodiac tender takes you ashore at Havelock, where you’ll be transferred to your central Blenheim drop-off point or the airport. Please note, in case of any delays, it is recommended not to book onward travel from Blenheim until after midday.
End of the cruise in Blenheim.
Heritage Explorer is a purpose-built expedition yacht offering an intimate and personalised way to experience New Zealand’s remote coastline, islands, and waterways. Carrying just 18 guests, this New Zealand-built vessel is designed for exploring hard-to-reach places where larger ships cannot go, creating a relaxed and immersive atmosphere ideal for curious and nature-loving travellers.
Crafted by respected naval architect Carey Clough, Heritage Explorer features four decks with ample outdoor viewing space, a welcoming dining saloon, and a cosy lounge for unwinding between excursions. With an open bridge policy, guests are invited to engage with the crew and feel part of the journey. Whether navigating the deep sounds of Fiordland or the sheltered bays of Marlborough, the ship feels both capable and comfortable.
Accommodation
Heritage Explorer offers four categories of en suite cabins, all with outward-facing views and a simple, classic design. Rooms are comfortably appointed with windows or portholes, warm bedding, and a compact private bathroom. While not overly luxurious, the accommodation is clean, quiet, and perfectly suited for an expedition-style journey. The ship’s small size creates a peaceful onboard setting where guests can easily retreat to their cabins or relax in one of the shared spaces to read, chat, or take in the scenery.
Food and Dining
Dining is casual, nourishing, and thoughtfully prepared by the onboard chef. Meals showcase local flavours and ingredients, often inspired by the regions visited along the way. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served communally in the dining area, creating a warm and social atmosphere. Snacks, tea, and coffee are always available, and dietary needs can be catered for with notice.
The Experience
Heritage Explorer is ideal for those who value connection with nature, genuine hospitality, and small group travel. It’s a perfect match for travellers who want to experience Aotearoa’s hidden corners with minimal fuss and maximum depth. Each journey feels more like a shared adventure than a cruise, with the ever-changing landscapes always just outside your window.
Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.
Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.
Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to luxury 5-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative of similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.
Booking On Request
All packages are offered on request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.
Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.
Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).
Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 130 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 120 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.
Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.