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JOURNEYS Unforgettable encounters around New Zealand and Australia
2024/25
Talbot Bay, Kimberley. S Bradley
Table of CONTENTS 4
THE KIMBERLEY
Australia's Final Frontier: Ancient wonders at their best
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BEST OF NZ
See it All: Cruise New Zealand's three biggest islands
STEWART ISLAND
Wildlife & Wilderness Adventure: Discover NZ’s Third Largest Island
MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS
Top of the South: Cruise in and out of untouched inlets
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SOUTHERN FIORDS
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FIORDLAND & STEWART ISLAND
In Depth: Immerse in a wilderness that time forgot
Unseen Wonders: Explore NZ's remote backyard
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DISCOVER MELANESIA
Cruise from Cairns to Vanuatu via PNG & the Solomon Islands
WESTERN PACIFIC ODYSSEY
Sail Auckland to Japan on this ultimate birding adventure
With over 1,500 journeys available, Wild Earth Travel will match you with the trip that best suits your needs.
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Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 20 years’ experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe. Based in Christchurch, for our Australia and New Zealand itineraries, we work alongside other locally owned operators to bring you the best
WILD EARTH
of the region whilst supporting locals. If you enjoy a more personal style of travel where you interact with smaller groups, discover more and engage with your fellow travellers, then our journeys and programs could be just the ticket for you! By travelling with Wild Earth Travel we guarantee that you will spend less time in queues and more time experiencing the unique destinations on the itinerary.
While you will find a selection of hand-picked journeys in this brochure, it is by no means everything we have on offer. With over 1,500 journeys available worldwide, If you don’t find a program that suits your requirements, please check our website or contact us to start your adventure! www.wildearth-travel.com info@wildearth-travel.com
New Zealand fur seal, K Riedel.
OUR SHIPS
In this mini-brochure we have teamed up with local operator, Heritage Expeditions, a family-owned and run, business based out of Christchurch, which operates its own ships on expedition cruises along coastal New Zealand and Australia’s iconic Kimberley coast. Other destinations include the 'heart of Antarctica' the Ross Sea, the Subantarctic Islands, around the islands of Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Philippines. Each authentic, small-ship expedition cruise is meticulously planned and led ensuring expeditioners maximise every opportunity they have to learn and experience as much as possible about the region, while at the same time minimising the impact of their visit.
Heritage Adventurer Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Often referred to as the 'Grande Dame of Exploration Cruising' due to her celebrated history and refined design, she was purpose built for adventure in 1991 at Finland's Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration. Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 expeditioners, ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages that come complete with onboard pool, gym, library, observation lounge and bar. A fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition adventure off the ship. Heritage Explorer New Zealand-built expedition yacht Heritage Explorer sets a high standard for discovery travel, combining the ultimate in comfort with unique itineraries and a personalised experience with a maximum of just 18 guests on board. At 30 metres in length with four decks, Heritage Explorer features 10 well-appointed cabins, dining room boasting 180-degree panoramas and theatre capabilities; lounge and bar; and a well-stocked local library. Outside, guests can enjoy covered space on the bridge deck, or adjourn to the sun deck. Kayaks and fishing equipment are available for use, while two tenders allow for deeper exploration.
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Left to Right: Horizontal Falls, Tourism WA; Mitchell Falls, Ewan Bell; Hunter River, S Bradley. Bottom: Montgomery Reef, Tourism WA
The Kimberley
Expedition Cruising Australia's Iconic Kimberley Coast 11 days | FROM AU$12,750pp* Aboard Heritage Adventurer More information here
Expedition Highlights Unforgettable spectacle of King George River, Gorge and Falls World War II relics and early explorer history Massive tidal movements at Talbot Bay Islands, pristine white beaches, turquoise waters, secluded coves at Vansittart Bay Hunter River and Collier Bay, one of the world's largest and most pristine mangrove systems Ashmore Reef, home to 500 species of fish, 225 reefbuilding coral species and 100,000 nesting sea birds World's largest inshore reef system at Montgomery Reef Astounding observations of saltwater crocodiles
Expedition Dates: 11 - 21 August 2024 (Darwin to Broome) 21 - 31 August 2024 (Broome to Darwin)
Itinerary at a Glance DAY 1: Darwin - Meet Heritage Adventurer and team at port DAY 2: King Gorge River - Get up close on a Zodiac cruise DAY 3: Vansittart Bay -Explore untouched beaches & rock art DAY 4: Ashmore Reef - Visit Australia’s remotest marine park DAY 5: Bigge Island & Careening Bay - Explore ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, sea caves and fascinating wildlife DAY 5: Swift Bay - Navigate islands, beaches, and mangroves DAY 6: Hunter River - Witness astonishing wildlife & waterfalls DAY 7: Careening Bay - Visit Prince Regent National Park including King Cascades DAY 8 & 9: Collier Bay - Experience Horizontal Falls, Montgomery Reef & Freshwater Cove DAY 10: Lacepede Islands - Wildlife reserve & birding paradise Day 11: Broome - Arrive at this relaxed tropical beach town
Note: This itinerary also operates in reverse.
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Left to Right: Marlborough Sounds, M Crouch; Abel Tasman; Marlborough Sounds, T Channel; Marlborough Sounds, Heritage Expeditions.
Discover Marlborough Sounds
An In-depth Exploration of the Marlborough Sounds 7 days | FROM AU$5,365pp* More information here
Aboard Heritage Explorer
Expedition Highlights Discover the tranquil waterways, wildlife and rich history of the Marlborough Sounds Uncover the splendid waters of Queen Charlotte Sound, which are steeped in expeditioning and whaling history Sail through the iconic French Pass and visit d’Urville island, which features imposing sea cliffs, a high mountainous backbone and the fastest moving tidal flows in New Zealand Explore Pelorus Sound, which boasts 380 kilometres of shoreline Enjoy the food and wine culture of sunny Blenheim
Itinerary at a Glance DAY 1: Blenheim - Transfer to Picton to board Heritage Explorer before setting sail along Queen Charlotte Sound DAY 2 & 3: Queen Charlotte Sound - Opportunity to head ashore and walk part of the Queen Charlotte Track in search of birdlife on these predator-free reserves DAY 4: d'Urville Island - Look out for dolphins and New Zealand Fur Seals, which are frequently seen in the area DAY 5 & 6: Pelorus Sound - Explore endless bays and sheltered coves. For the active, enjoy the walking part of the Nydia Track before exploring Nydia Bay by water DAY 7: Blenheim - After breakfast and farewells, Zodiac ashore at Havelock to transfer to Blenheim town or airport Note: This itinerary also operates in reverse. Contact us for more information on the direction of the departure date you are interested in.
Expedition Dates: 1 - 7 May 2024 7 - 13 May 2024 13 - 19 May 2024
19 - 25 May 2024 29 Nov - 5 Dec 2024 9 - 16 Dec 2024
Marlborough Sounds, Andy Woods
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Southern Fiords
A Deep Exploration of Fiordland's Southern Fiords 7 days | FROM AU$5,995pp* Aboard Heritage Explorer More information here
Expedition Highlights Delve into the rich gold mining and forestry history that once made the now quiet waterway of Preservation inlet a bustling hub of activity Uncover impressive limestone cliffs of Chalky Island, as surrounding mountains impress with their majesty At Dusky Sound, visit some of the most significant historical and conservation sites in New Zealand Immerse in Doubtful Sound with its cloud-scraping wilderness cloaked mountains, sheer stone cliffs, waterfalls, inlets, quiet coves and wildlife presents nature on the grandest scale
Itinerary at a Glance DAY 1: Te Anau/Preservation Inlet - Enjoy a spectacular helicopter transfer to join Heritage Explorer in Preservation Inlet before we set sail along Long Sound DAY 2: Preservation Inlet - Sight see & enjoy a coastal walk DAY 3: Chalky Inlet - Uncover protected harbours at North and South Port which offer much to explore as the centres of the human history in the inlet DAY 4 & 5: Dusky Sound - Island hop predator-free islands to observe some of New Zealand's rarest birds DAY 6: Dagg & Doubtful Sound - Photo opportunities abound as you cruise the likes of Blanket Bay, the Shelter Islands, Pandora River, Deas Cove and Open Bay DAY 7: Doubtful Sound/Te Anau - Navigate to Deep Cove, home to several waterfalls. After a final breakfast and farewells, head ashore for transfer to Te Anau
Expedition Dates: 9 - 15 Feb 2024 | 26 Feb - 3 Mar 2024 | 3 - 9 Mar 2024 | 4 - 10 Jul 2024 | 10 - 16 Jul 2024 | 12 - 18 Aug 2024 | 6 - 12 & 24 - 30 Sep 2024
Note: This itinerary also operates in reverse. Contact us for more details.
Top: Fiordland, S Bradley; Fiordland, C Todd.
Photo details
Unseen Stewart Island
Pristine Wilderness and Wildlife Adventure 8 days | FROM AU$6,555pp* More information here
Aboard Heritage Explorer
Expedition Highlights Time-forgot rawness of Stewart Island where there will be opportunities to listen to the native bird song and enjoy the golden sandy beaches Stewart Island is home to a unique range of birdlife including bellbird, tui, kaka, tomtit, rifleman, Stewart Island robin, saddleback, mohua and of course, the Stewart Island brown kiwi Visit Oban where a drink with a view can be enjoyed at the historic and iconic South Sea Hotel Explore this pristine wilderness via Zodiac, kayak or on foot with many excellent walking options Marine mammal encounters including Hooker’s/New Zealand Sea Lions, Bottlenose Dolphins and Yellow-eyed Penguins
Expedition Dates: 5 - 12, 12 - 19 & 19 - 26 Oct 2024
Itinerary at a Glance DAY 1: Invercargill/Oban - Ferry from Bluff to Oban where your Captain and Expedition Leader will welcome you aboard DAY 2: Paterson Inlet - Explore this near 100-kilometre square expanse filled with islands, bush-clad bays, and beaches DAY 3: Port Adventure - Opportunities could include visiting the Port Adventure Hunters Hut, Zodiac cruising the coastline and the spectacular Heron River, along with adventures ashore on foot DAYS 4 to 6: Port Pegasus - Explore this expansive harbour laced with waterways, arms and channels, several waterfalls and islands DAY 7: Lords River - Considered one of the most spectacular and unspoilt areas of New Zealand, and the country’s Amazon, enjoy a Zodiac safari up this fascinating winding estuary DAY 8: Oban/Invercargill - Return to Oban and transfer to the Stewart Island Ferry for your return sailing to Bluff and onwards to Invercargill
From top: Oban, T Kraakman; South Pegasus Track, Heritage Expeditions; Stewart Island, I Wilson
Fiordland & Stewart Island
Exploring New Zealand’s Remote Backyard 6 days | FROM AU$5,995pp* More information here
Aboard Heritage Adventurer
Expedition Highlights Time-forgot rawness of Stewart Island where there will be opportunities to listen to the native bird song and enjoy the golden sandy beaches Stewart and Ulva Islands are home to a unique range of birdlife including bellbird, tui, kaka, tomtit, rifleman, Stewart Island robin, saddleback, mohua and of course, the Stewart Island brown kiwi Visit Oban where a drink with a view can be enjoyed at the historic and iconic South Sea Hotel Fiordland's primordial majesty where we hope to encounter playful New Zealand Fur Seals, curious Dusky dolphins, elusive birds and enjoy endless stunning vistas Discover hidden inlets, coves and beaches as we Zodiac cruise Sportsman Cove and explore Cooper Island
Expedition Dates: 11 - 8 Mar 2024^ 3 - 8 Jan 2025
^This trip takes a slightly different itinerary, adding in The Snares over two extra days. Enquire for more details.
Itinerary at a Glance DAY 1: Queenstown - At our designated hotel, meet fellow travellers at an informal dinner DAY 2: Port to Bluff/Stewart Island - Depart for Stewart Island: explore Paterson Inlet, Ulva Island and the quirky town of Oban DAY 3 to 5: Fiordland - Opportunities to visit Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound, Acheron Passage, Astronomer’s Point and Pickersgill Harbour - Zodiac cruise the rugged coastline, taking in untouched nature at its best DAY 6: Invercargill/Queenstown - At the Port of Bluff complimentary coach awaits for transfer to either Invercargill or Queenstown airports
Top: Weka on Ulva Island, A Russ; Secretary Island, Fiordland. C Hill
Left to Right: Fiordland, N Porter; Wekas, J Estreberg; Cape Kidnappers, G Lisborn. Fiordland, M Crouch. Bottom: bottlenose dolphins
Best of Aotearoa / New Zealand
An Intimate Exploration Cruise of New Zealand's Islands 15 days | FROM AU$14,495pp* Aboard Heritage Adventurer More information here
Expedition Highlights Discover the best of New Zealand exploring its three main islands (North Island, South Island, and Stewart Island)
Itinerary at a Glance DAY 1: Queenstown - Meet fellow travellers at our designated hotel DAY 2: Queenstown/Invercargill -Travel to the Port of Bluff DAY 3 & 4: Fiordland - Opportunities to visit Doubtful and Dusky sounds, Acheron Passage and Astronomer’s Point DAY 5: Stewart Island - Uncover the beaches of Paterson Inlet and wildlife of predator-free Ulva Island DAY 6: Dunedin - From berth at Port Chalmers, explore quaint city of Dunedin, as well as Otago Peninsula DAY 7: Lyttelton - From this quaint sea-faring town, visit Christchurch city or wine region, Wairapa DAY 8: Marlborough Sounds - Discover this beautiful labyrinth of waterways & walk part of the lush coastal trail. DAY 9: Nelson - Discover the incredibly beautiful coastal scenery of the Abel Tasman National Park DAY 10: Wellington - Explore this vibrant city on foot DAY 11: Napier - Visit Art Deco inspired township, Hawkes Bay wineries and Cape Kidnappers gannet colony DAY 12: Gisborne - In this fertile growing region, bear witness to nature at the National Arboretum DAY 13: Great Barrier Island - Discover sub-tropical forests and the beautiful Port Fitzroy DAY 14: Bay of Islands - Admire clear blue waters and golden sand beaches. Visit Treaty Ground at Waitangi DAY 14: Auckland - Berth in the central city waterfront
Expedition Dates: 7 - 21 Mar 2024
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Discover the Secrets of Melanesia Cairns to Vanuatu via PNG & the Solomon Islands 17 days | FROM AU$19,995pp* More information here
Aboard Heritage Adventurer
Expedition Highlights Experience authentic Melanesian cultures and traditions Explore remote islands and WWII sites Snorkel in some of the world's most diverse marine ecosystems Birdwatch for unique and endemic species Incredible cultural encounters and wildlife sightings
Itinerary at a Glance DAY 1: Cairns - Enjoy a hotel night in this gateway to natural wonders including the Great Barrier Reef. DAY 2: Port Moresby - Fly to Port Moresby, boarding Heritage Adventurer in the afternoon. DAYS 3 & 4: Louisiade Archipelago - See a wonderland of hundreds of islands, lagoons and extensive barrier reefs and home to the seafaring Dobu people DAY 5: D’Entrecasteaux Islands - Explore the island’s geothermal area with hot springs and bubbling mud pools surrounded by lush vegetation. DAY 6: Trobriand Islands - Known as ‘Islands of Love’, these islands offer a glimpse of traditional culture. DAY 7: Woodlark Island - Enjoy village visits and look for unique wildlife including endemic lizards, plants, amphibians and insects. DAY 8: Bougainville Island - Encounter some of the greatest biodiversity in the region both above and below the water. DAY 9: New Georgia Islands - Visit a Eco Lodge and Conservation Area and search for the rare Roviana Rail along with other endemic bird species. Snorkel the wreck of a WWII plane. DAY 10: Nissan Island - Globally outstanding marine biodiversity, coral reefs, estuarine and island complexes, mangrove forests, and sea grass beds await exploration. DAY 11: Malaita - Explore the clear and calm waters that surround the island and meet the world-renowned Kwaio People to discover their traditional way of life. DAY 12: Makira - Join the naturalists for a Zodiac exploration of the abundant mangrove forests that line the shores. DAY 13: Nendö - Watch the manufacture of red feather money, and join the locals in dances which reverberate through the ages. DAY 14: Torres Islands - Explore white sand beaches, clear azure waters, volcanic rock and cliffs topped in jungle. DAY 15: Honiara - Indulge in a swim in crystalline waters, Zodiac cruises to the iconic blue holes of Santo. Uncover history Luganville and Million Dollar Point. DAY 16: Ambrym- Discover why this island is renowned for volcanoes and magic throughout Vanuatu DAY 17: Port Vila - Upon disembarking transfer to your central city hotel or the airport.
Expedition Dates: 30 Oct - 15 Nov 2024
From top: Lisle Gwynnon; E Bell; S Noakes
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© Heritage Expeditions
Western Pacific Odyssey Auckland to Yokohama
29 days | FROM AU$21,250pp* Aboard Heritage Adventurer More information here
Expedition Highlights Visits to many key birding areas in the South West Pacific *Great Barrier Island & the Hauraki Gulf *Bay of Islands *New Caledonia *Anuta Island in the Makira Group *Kolombangara Island *Caroline Islands *Torishima Island
Itinerary at a Glance DAY 1: Auckland - Board Heritage Adventurer. DAY 2: Hauraki Gulf - Explore Great Barrier Island. DAY 3: Bay of Islands - Traverse and uncover these beautiful and historic waters. DAY 4: At Sea. DAY 5: Norfolk Island - Visit forest on this former Penal Colony. DAY 6: At Sea - Attend lectures, bird watch or simply relax. DAYS 7 & 8: New Caledonia - Enjoy a ‘Taste of France’ in this biodiverse gem of the Pacific. DAYS 9 & 10: At Sea. DAY 11: Santa Ana, Solomon Islands - Explore this small coral island with its distinctive avifauna. DAY 12: Anuta Island - See an exciting range of bird species. DAY 13: Honiara - Explore the forested mountains behind this city. DAY 14: Tetepare Island - Long and rugged, this island is cloaked in lush tropical forests and fringed with reefs that are teeming with marine life. DAY 15: Kolombangara Island - Home to conservation areas and a dormant volcano, 1,800m high. DAYS 16 & 17: Off the coasts of Bougainville & New Ireland Excellent opportunities for bird and whale watching. DAYS 18 & 19: At Sea. DAYS 20 & 21: Caroline Islands - Discover the protected (and historic) waters of the Chuuk Lagoon, Zodiac ride, join our expedition guides exploring the island of Dublon or take the opportunity for a snorkel. DAYS 22 to 25: At Sea. DAY 26: Chichi-jima Island, Japan - Explore the settlement and the surrounding area. DAY 27: Torishima Island - Cruise close to shore in the hope of seeing the Short-tailed or Steller’s Albatross. DAY 28: Hachijo-Jima Island - Discover this picturesque subtropical volcanic island before a farewell dinner. DAY 29: Yokohama - Disembark then transfer to the local airport.
Expedition Dates: 21 March - 18 April 2024 13 March - 6 April 2025^
^This is a slightly different itinerary, contact us for details
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Contact Us:
Wild Earth Travel
Antarctic House 53B Montreal Street Christchurch, 8240, New Zealand NZ 0800 945 3327 | AU 1800 107 715 info@wildearth-travel.com www.wildearth-travel.com
*Itineraries and prices are indicative and subject to change. Prices are based on twin share occupancy. Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars.