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Zodiacs exploring the Pacific Ocean

Tasman Discoverer - Food & Wine

Example 8 Day Cruise
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The orion sails the crystal blue waters of the PacificA local family poses for the cameraLocal fishing Boats at home in a tranquil bayA hidden cove offers some lush tropical floraZodiacs exploring the Pacific Ocean
Places Visited
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Brisbane, Australia

Situated midway up the east coast of Australia is Brisbane, capital city of Queensland. With the Gold Coast beaches to the south and the Sunshine Coast to the north, Brisbane is well situated to commence your Orion journey and it is well worth arriving a few days prior to enjoy the city and surrounds.

Day 2-3: At Sea

Day 4: Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island is rich in History and Culture from Captain Cook's discovery in 1774 to modern times. When the First Fleet arrived at Port Jackson in January 1788, Phillip ordered Lieutenant Philip Gidley King to lead a party of fifteen convicts and seven free men to take control of the island and prepare for its commercial development. They arrived on 6 March 1788.

Although much of the land has been cleared for cropping and pasture, the once-dominant Norfolk Island pines remain a notable feature of the landscape. The island has a wide variety of flora and fauna including geckos, bats, turtles, plentiful fish and many seabird species.

Before European colonization, most of Norfolk Island was covered with subtropical rain forest, the canopy of which was made of Norfolk Island Pine. Historic attractions include museums, the penal settlement and the culture arising from the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian wives, who settled on Norfolk after the mutiny of the HMS Bounty.

Day 5: At Sea

Day 6: Russell, Bay of Islands

On the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand you will enjoy a fine taste of Aotearoa. Here a coastline of bays and white sandy beaches embraces a sea dotted with 150 islands. The Maoris believe that the Bay of Islands was originally discovered by their legendary navigator Kupe. This is where the Maoris first arrived, and not so long ago was a base for whalers, sealers and sailors, preparing the way for a fusing of Maori and European culture.

Today Orion guests can explore the picturesque Bay of Islands town of Russell at your leisure, or join a guided historic tour of the township. This tour offers an insight into New Zealand’s earliest European history all in one memorable hour. Russell was originally named Kororareka by a Maori chief, it was renamed in 1844 and the town is very conscious of its unique heritage.

Today Russell is a peaceful retreat with an old world charm - though it bristles in summer with vacationers, and crewmen from yachts and launches anchored off shore. This area is also famously known as being the home of the Treaty of Waitangi, the first official agreement between Maori and the British. A Zodiac transfer will be available to Waitangi (on the opposite side of the bay to Russell) for those who would like to visit this historic site.

Day 7: Robertson Island & Te Rawhiti Inlet, Bay of Islands

The legendary navigator of Maori oral traditional history, Kupe, first discovered the many islands that we now know as the Bay of Islands. Orion plans to anchor in Te Rawhiti Inlet and make landing at Roberton Island or Motuarohia as it is known to the Maori people. Roberton’s white sandy beaches and native bird life embrace what the islands of this area have to offer.

Motuarohia Island features a number of Maori archaeological sites including pa (Maori fortified village), terraces, pits, and gardening evidence around the central lagoon area. Captain Cook visited Motuarohia anchoring off Cook's Cove in 1769.

Day 8: Auckland, New Zealand / Disembark

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.

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
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