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A Masterpiece of Craftmanship and Design
A Masterpiece of Craftmanship and Design
www.bayleys.co.nz
An extraordinary opportunity to own one of New Zealand’s most prestigious properties, where grand views and timeless luxury define this ‘one of a kind’ masterpiece. Set amongst a natural backdrop with serene ponds, lush gardens and an infinity pool, this remarkable estate showcases an idyllic lifestyle of luxury and privacy which perfectly bridges the rustic and the refined.
Impeccably presented, the main residence is an impressive solid masonry home, over 900sqm meticulously crafted from the finest materials including South Island schist exterior and an impressive selection of natural stone and hardwood timbers on the interior. Renowned US-based interior designer Barbara Westbrook recreated a refined and highly livable home as the stately and serene environment reflects and embraces the natural beauty that is New Zealand’s greatest asset.
To complement the main residence there is a separate threebedroom cottage for extended family living, long-term guests, or staff plus implements shed, and a helicopter landing area available on the property.
Embrace this unique opportunity to live within a comfortable commute of either Auckland’s International Airport or the CBD. Within close proximity to the Formosa International Golf resort, the quaint Whitford Village and the Pine Harbour Marina with a commuter ferry service to Auckland city.
Please contact us for further information or a private viewing of this spectacular estate.
Angela Rudling M 027 477 0176 B 09 215 3002 angela.rudling@bayleys.co.nz
Michael Chi 池景山 M 021 886 363 michael.chi@bayleys.co.nz bayleys.co.nz/1852807
BAYLEYS REAL ESTATE LTD, HOWICK LICENSED UNDER THE REA ACT 2008
Reflex of Italy, available exclusively at Sarsfield Brooke. Laguna table, designed by Riccardo Lucatello. Layers of handcrafted Molten glass of irregular surface and texture fused together for strength and beauty.
www.sarsfieldbrooke.co.nz
On the Rocks Sofa by Francesco Binfaré. Scrigno container by Fernando and Humberto Campana. Cicladi Coffee Tables by Jacopo Foggini.
photo Giovanni Gastel
Matisse | Auckland - 130 St Georges Bay Road, Parnell | Christchurch - 27 Papanui Road, Merivale | Queenstown - Unit A, 179 Glenda Drive, Frankton www.matisse.co.nz | design@matisse.co.nz
PREMIUM ®
UNRIVALLED LIFESTYLE - MATAKANA 620
Choose from 28 or 13 acres of prime Matakana real estate.
This stunning 28-acre (approx) country estate in the heart of Matakana is a rare legacy property. The luxury residence boasts soaring ceilings, multiple lounges, and high-end finishes across four elegant bedrooms. Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living, it features an alfresco dining area and two pools for both relaxation and recreation. Adjacent is separate guest accommodation with two bedrooms and a gym. Thoughtfully designed equine facilities include a six-box stable complex with a tack room, wash bay, feed room, and self-contained two-bedroom accommodation.
Impeccably landscaped, the estate includes a vineyard, olive grove, orchard, and paddocks, all linked by scenic trails. If desired, a 13-acre (approx) option includes the main residence, guest wing, orchard, and paddocks.
Less than an hours drive from Auckland CBD, close to beaches, golf, and Matakana Village. Visit www.matakana620.co.nz or contact Linda or Rob for details.
Welcome to the world of golf travel with PaR nz Gol ng Holidays, New Zealand’s best golf tour company as voted in 2024.
Welcome to the world of golf travel with PaR nz Gol ng Holidays, New Zealand’s best golf tour company as voted in 2024.
PaR nz Gol ng Holidays
PaR nz Gol ng Holidays
• Directors Denise Langdon & Kim Buckley – golfers and Windross Farm members
• 25 years in business
• Directors Denise Langdon & Kim Buckley – golfers and Windross Farm members
• 25 years in business
• In a unique sponsor partnership, for the 2025 NZ Open we o ered a $50k hole in one prize for Amateurs – sadly not struck in 2025
• Past / present supporters of Golf New Zealand, NZPGA and Women’s Golf in New Zealand
• In a unique sponsor partnership, for the 2025 NZ Open we o ered a $50k hole in one prize for Amateurs – sadly not struck in 2025
• New Zealand’s only o cial Authorised Provider to The Open
• Past / present supporters of Golf New Zealand, NZPGA and Women’s Golf in New Zealand
• New Zealand’s only o cial Authorised Provider to The Open
• Awarded Best Tour Operator for New Zealand nine times by International Golf Awards
• Recipient of an unique IAGTO Tourism Service Award
• Awarded Best Tour Operator for New Zealand nine times by International Golf Awards
• Recipient of an unique IAGTO Tourism Service Award
• Board member of the New Zealand Industry Golf Council and course rater for the bi-annual New Zealand Course rankings
• Members of New Zealand Tourism Association and IAGTO – the International Association of Golf Tour Operators
• Board member of the New Zealand Industry Golf Council and course rater for the bi-annual New Zealand Course rankings
• Members of New Zealand Tourism Association and IAGTO – the International Association of Golf Tour Operators
• Invited Member of The University of Auckland Chancellor’s Circle for contributions to The Centre for Brain Research – for MND Research & Cure
• Invited Member of The University of Auckland Chancellor’s Circle for contributions to The Centre for Brain Research – for MND Research & Cure
This year, 2025 marks our 25th anniversary in business. We are certainly showing no signs of slowing down with many destinations booked ahead for 2025 and 2026 – we welcome you to join us in Fiji or Tasmania. Why not Cambodia, Vietnam, Japan, South Africa, Canada, England, Wales, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal or Morrocco?
This year, 2025 marks our 25th anniversary in business. We are certainly showing no signs of slowing down with many destinations booked ahead for 2025 and 2026 – we welcome you to join us in Fiji or Tasmania. Why not Cambodia, Vietnam, Japan, South Africa, Canada, England, Wales, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal or Morrocco?
We have no less than 18 countries on o er to travel to over the next 18 months. Each of these are fabulous destinations jam packed with unique travel experiences staying in 5-star luxury hotels, playing some of the world’s best, including gaining access to private members clubs, and sampling great local cuisines and wines.
We have no less than 18 countries on o er to travel to over the next 18 months. Each of these are fabulous destinations jam packed with unique travel experiences staying in 5-star luxury hotels, playing some of the world’s best, including gaining access to private members clubs, and sampling great local cuisines and wines.
Are you ready to make your plans for 2025 and 2026 – our tours sell out quickly so don’t delay booking with us.
Are you ready to make your plans for 2025 and 2026 – our tours sell out quickly so don’t delay booking with us.
The World Awaits
The World Awaits
Denise & Kim
Denise Langdon & Kim Buckley
Denise & Kim
denise@parnz.co.nz | kim@parnz.co.nz
Denise Langdon & Kim Buckley denise@parnz.co.nz | kim@parnz.co.nz
New Zealand Golf with PaR nz Golfing Holidays
Three unique golf tournaments, from the Bay of Islands, to Hawke’s Bay, and Queenstown.
2025 Copthorne Bay of Islands 4-Course Golf Classic
Featuring four great courses – Kauri Cliffs, Bay of Islands Kerikeri, Waitangi, and Whangaroa. Staying at the Copthorne Bay of Islands Hotel with wonderful food and beverage experiences at Charlotte’s Kitchen, The Duke of Marlborough and Kauri Cliffs.
Sunday 18 May – Friday 23 May 2025
2025 Trinity Hill Hawkes Bay 4-Course Golf Classic
Featuring another four great courses – Cape Kidnappers, Hastings, Maraenui and Napier. All host venues featuring food and wine matching functions. Sponsored by Trinity Hill Wines. Tournament hotels Quest Napier and Scenic Hotels.
Sunday 2 November – Friday 7 November 2025
2025 MORA Millbrook Masters
Stay four nights in luxury at the 5-star Millbrook Resort, our tournament partner. Play three rounds of championship golf Millbrook Coronet, Millbrook Remarkables and Jack’s Point. Partner sponsor Mora Wines.
Sunday 16 November – Wednesday 19 November 2025
nz Golfing Holidays
BULA FIJI (Two fun in the sun Tournaments)
Denarau Women’s Golf Classic 14 – 20 September 2025
Sheraton Fiji Villa Teams Challenge 21 September – 27 September 2025
TASMANIA
23 November – 3 December 2025
16 – 20 July 2026
21 March – 30 March 2026
CAMBODIA (Special add-on to
11 March – 19 March, 2026
15 August – 31 August 2026
NORDIC GOLF TOUR (Sweden, Norway, Finland)
ITALY & GREECE
4 September – 24 September 2026
VIETNAM DANANG SIXES
Danang Sixes)
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
RYAN FOX HAS PLAYED THE BIGGEST EVENTS IN THE WORLD AND GONE TOE-TO-TOE WITH THE BEST, ALL WHILE JUGGLING FAMILY LIFE AND THE BRUTAL REALITY OF PROFESSIONAL GOLF’S NOMADIC EXISTENCE. RIGHT NOW, HE’S CHASING THE MAJOR AMBITIONS THAT CONTINUE TO FUEL HIS DRIVE. WORDS: REECE WITTERS.
Ryan Fox is a grinder. He’s got the game, the pedigree and the passport stamps to prove it. Although we won’t be seeing him in this year’s Masters, Augusta National has already left its mark on him. He’s walked those famous emerald-green fairways, felt the roar echo through the pines and stood on the 12th tee with the swirling wind playing mind games.
It’s unfinished business, sure, but for now, Foxy is focused on what’s in front of him: getting
THE MASTERS REMAINS A POSSIBILITY, BUT WITH YOUR SCHEDULE RIGHT NOW, WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST FOCUS THIS SEASON?
Just putting four rounds together in the majors. I know I can compete with the best when I’m on, but major championship golf is about sustaining it for all four days. That’s the challenge. The game is there, it’s just about doing it when it counts.
IT’S WAY STEEPER THAN IT LOOKS ON TV. THE OTHER THING IS HOW PRECISE YOU HAVE TO BE. THE SLOPES ON THE GREENS, THE RUNOFFS – IT’S BRUTAL. YOU HAVE TO BE PERFECT.” – RYANFOXONAUGUSTANATIONAL
better, staying sharp and proving (to himself more than anyone else) that he belongs in the conversations that start and end with golf’s elite.
We caught up with him as he mapped out his season, reflecting on the highs, the hurdles, and the hunger that still drives him.
You’ve played Augusta twice now. What’s the biggest thing people watching at home might not fully appreciate about it?
The hills. Everyone hears about it, but until you get there, you just don’t realise how hilly that place is. Standing on the first tee and looking down nine and 18; it’s way steeper than it looks on TV. The other thing is how precise you have to be. The slopes on the greens, the runoffs – it’s brutal. You have to be perfect.
WHAT’S BEEN THE HARDEST PART OF ADJUSTING TO LIFE ON THE PGA TOUR FULL-TIME?
The travel and the grind of it all. The European Tour felt like family – you’re traveling with the same guys week in, week out. Over here [in the US], it’s different. It took me a while to feel like I belonged. But I’ve got some good mates now, I know the courses better and I know what it takes. Last year was a learning curve. This year, I feel a lot more settled.
YOU’RE BALANCING ALL THIS WITH BEING A DAD. HAS THAT CHANGED YOUR APPROACH TO THE GAME?
One-hundred per cent. Golf is important, but at the end of the day, my kids don’t care if I shoot 62 or 82. I could win a tournament
Ryan Fox walks to the second green with his family during the Par Three Contest prior to the 2024 Masters.
HOLE IN ONE: Ryan Fox holes his tee shot on the par-3 17th hole during the first round of The Players Championship, TPC Sawgrass, 2024.
and still be the guy changing nappies an hour later. It’s a good perspective check. Also, time management has become massive. I don’t waste hours just ‘practicing’ anymore, I go in with a plan, get my work done and then switch off.
STEVE WILLIAMS HAS SAID YOU HAVE THE GAME TO WIN A MAJOR. WHAT DO YOU THINK NEEDS TO COME TOGETHER FOR THAT TO HAPPEN?
I think I just need to get myself in position on a Sunday afternoon. I’ve won from the front, I’ve won from behind, and I know I can handle the pressure. It’s just about getting myself into that mix at a major and then executing when it matters.
IF YOU COULD CHOOSE ONE MAJOR TO WIN, WHICH ONE WOULD IT BE?
The Masters or The Open. Augusta is Augusta, no explanation needed. And links golf is what I love, what I grew up playing. But honestly, I wouldn’t complain about any of them.
WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED IN GOLF?
“Control what you can control.” It’s easy to get caught up in everything – conditions, course setup, what other players are doing – but at the end of the day, all I can do is focus on my own game and execution.
WHAT’S ONE TOURNAMENT OUTSIDE OF THE MAJORS THAT YOU’D LOVE TO WIN?
The New Zealand Open. It would be pretty special to win in front of a home crowd. That’s the one I’d love to have on my resume.
WHAT’S THE MOST MEMORABLE SHOT YOU’VE EVER HIT IN COMPETITION?
Probably the drive on 18 at Wentworth, when
I won. I needed a good one, and I absolutely flushed it. That moment, knowing I’d put myself in a great spot to win, was unreal.
WHAT’S ONE PART OF YOUR GAME YOU’RE WORKING ON THE MOST RIGHT NOW?
My putting. I’ve been solid tee to green, but if I can get a bit more consistency rolling it well,
‘‘
CONTROL WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL. IT’S EASY TO GET CAUGHT UP IN EVERYTHING –CONDITIONS, COURSE SETUP, WHAT OTHER PLAYERS ARE DOING –BUT AT THE END OF THE DAY, ALL I CAN DO IS FOCUS ON MY OWN GAME AND EXECUTION.”
that could be the difference in competing week in, week out. I also think my short game is a little underrated. It’s something I’ve put a lot of work into over the years, and while I’m known for being a big hitter, I take pride in being able to get up and down when I need to. Scrambling well can make or break a tournament, and I’ve worked hard to make that part of my game as reliable as my long game.
WHO’S IN YOUR DREAM FOURBALL, AND WHERE ARE YOU PLAYING?
Tiger, Jack and my old man. Augusta or St Andrews. But honestly, I’d take that group anywhere – even if it was just a little nine-hole pitch and putt.
IF YOU WEREN’T A PROFESSIONAL GOLFER, WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU’D BE DOING?
Probably something in rugby. I grew up loving the game and if golf hadn’t taken over, I’d like to think I’d be involved in some capacity.
LOOKING AHEAD
Ryan Fox isn’t one to overthink the future. Right now, it’s about playing good golf, keeping his PGA Tour card and giving himself chances. He’s embraced the challenge of life in the States but still has a soft spot for the European Tour’s camaraderie. Long-term? He wants to be a global player, picking and choosing the events that matter most to him.
Golf is unpredictable, and Fox knows that better than most. One hot streak, one win, and everything changes. The next few months will be telling. ▪
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BUILT FOR SPEED. Drivers come in all shapes and sizes with claims of more of everything, but unless it’s optimized to your game, your expectations and drives will come up short (and in the rough). In the new G440 drivers, multiple technologies, including a lighter overall system weight and longer shaft, help bring you more ball speed for more distance, more forgiveness and more fun.
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PEAKE PERFORMANCE
THE 2025 NEW ZEALAND OPEN AT MILLBROOK RESORT NEAR QUEENSTOWN PRODUCED ONE OF THE MOST DRAMATIC FINAL ROUNDS IN MANY YEARS, WITH FOUR PLAYERS POISED FOR A PLAYOFF – UNTIL AUSSIE EX-BIKER RYAN PEAKE SEALED THE DEAL. WORDS: TOM HYDE.
If Michael Glading, the director of the $2 million 104th New Zealand Open presented by Sky Sport ever wanted to raise global awareness of the event, he could not have hoped for a better winner than 31-year-old Australian Ryan Peake.
Peake, the first lefty to win the event since Sir Bob Charles 52 years ago, came to the 72nd hole at 23-under, just one vulnerable shot in front of fellow Aussie Jack Thompson, Japan’s Kazuki Higa, and South African Ian Snyman who were all at -22.
Synman looked to be the man to force a playoff when his approach shot on the terrific par- 3 island green, a wonderful closing hole with a stadium-like atmosphere, came to rest a mere club-length from the cup. But his birdie putt rimmed out and he remained at -22.
That left it to Peake, playing alongside the 54-hole leader, South Korean Guntaek Koh, to close it out with a par.
CLICKTOWA
Australian golfer, Ryan Peake celebrates after winning the 2025 New Zealand Open at Millbrook Resort.
For 63 holes, Koh looked like money. But he overcooked his second shot at the par-4 11th then missed his recovery putt for par and was never a factor again.
At the 72nd hole, Peake was leading by one shot, so all he had to do was find the middle of the green a routine 153 metres away and execute a conventional two-putt for par and the victory. What could go wrong?
Under what must have been mind-numbing pressure however, he pulled his tee shot right and was lucky not to find sand, or worse, lose it
altogether to water. The ball pulled up on the fringe of the undulating green about 15m from the cup. It was anything but a routine up and down.
He left his pitch shot three metres short, yet he stepped up and, with a chock-full gallery looking on in deathly silence, he sank the putt for the win with all the confidence of the seasoned pro that he is not.
Now Michael Glading and others who have worked to make this tournament such a success had a public relations hit like never before.
Why?
Because Ryan Peake has a great personal story to tell. One of taking up golf at an early age and then having it interrupted by his time in a motorcycle gang and five years in prison before taking golf seriously a second time around – this time with the accomplished Australian golf coach, Ritchie Smith.
It’s a story New Zealand golf fans and many others have no doubt heard already, because Peake’s victory and his story have been reported around the globe from multiple outlets in New Zealand to Australia (Fox Sports, Sky Sports) to the UK (BBC, Daily Mail, The Guardian) to the US (ESPN, NBC
‘‘
UNLIKE PREVIOUS NEW ZEALAND OPENS, THE WINNER THIS YEAR AUTOMATICALLY QUALIFIED FOR THE 153RD
OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP AT
ROYAL PORTRUSH IN JULY”
Sports, Sports Illustrated) and naturally via a host of online services.
Unlike previous New Zealand Opens, the winner this year automatically qualified for the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in July. That is big news, and you can bet that when Ryan Peake turns up in Northern Ireland his remarkable story will be retold again – and in association with this tournament, its stunning locale and top-quality golf that is the Millbrook Resort. You think that’s not going to leave more of the world’s best players wanting to check it out? ▪
LEFT: Former Open Championship winner Ian Baker-Finch congratulates Ryan Peake winning the New Zealand Open qualifying him for the next Open Championship.
JACK’S KIWI THRILLER
AMONG THE 400 NICKLAUS-DESIGNED GOLF COURSES
AROUND THE WORLD, THE KINLOCH CLUB NEAR TAUPO HOLDS A SPECIAL PLACE IN THE GOLDEN BEAR’S HEART. IT’ S EASY TO SEE WHY.
WORDS: PAUL PRENDERGAST. PHOTOS: DES FRITH AND TOURISM TAUPO.
Sixty years on from the first of Jack Nicklaus’ forays into golf course architecture with Pete Dye and Desmond Muirhead, the list of both Jack Nicklaus-designed golf courses – and their global reach – is beyond immense. More than 400 courses in dozens of countries represent a colossal body of work, with many hosting annual Tour events, Ryder and Presidents Cup competitions and major championships.
Perhaps the best known of all these courses is Muirfield Village, and it’s no doubt the most personal to Jack himself, having built the golf course with Muirhead in his hometown of Columbus, Ohio. Named for the site of his first Open Championship victory at Muirfield in Scotland, Nicklaus has continued to toy with the golf course almost year on year, striving to improve and refresh the challenge presented annually at the Memorial Tournament he has hosted since 1974.
‘‘
the Golden Bear had long expressed a soft spot, having previously enjoyed its natural beauty and serenity on multiple fishing trips.
New Zealand’s sole Jack Nicklaus Signature layout remains The Kinloch Club, laid out on former pastoral land leading down towards the north shore of Lake Taupo. Nicklaus was no doubt thrilled to get the call from the owners when the idea of a golf course was floated, leaving no one under any illusion about his feelings for the country.
“It occurred to me that in an increasingly tumultuous world, this peaceful haven offers a timeless way of life and values,” Nicklaus said in Kinloch’s formative years.
“If I had to move outside the United States, New Zealand is the first place I’d come.”
Nicklaus was present to open the first nine holes in 2007, not long after completing work at Sebonack alongside Tom Doak. The terrain at each location features open, unwooded
IT OCCURRED TO ME THAT IN AN INCREASINGLY TUMULTUOUS WORLD, THIS PEACEFUL HAVEN OFFERS A TIMELESS WAY OF LIFE AND VALUES.” – JACKNICKLAUS
However, the list of ‘notables’ includes Harbour Town, Valhalla, Shoal Creek, Glen Abbey, The Bear’s Club and the marvelous Sebonack on New York’s Long Island, all equally well known as either collaborations with other designers or as exclusive Jack Nicklaus ‘Signature’ layouts.
And of those courses and regions where his design footprint has extended beyond the United States, the Taupo area is one for which
expanses, wild grasses and landforms that would ultimately inspire crumpled fairways, jagged bunkering, exciting angles of play and daring green complexes and settings.
Indeed, anyone picturing a ‘Nicklaus course’ in their mind’s eye, based on the manicured state of many of those listed above – or at Lakelands, Heritage and The Australian Golf Club across the Ditch – will be shocked to the core on their arrival at Kinloch.
Jack Nicklaus
The course has, for most of its life, been described as a links. But the backdrop of steep hillsides, elevation changes, the prevalence of water on several holes, and a location 200 kilometres from the ocean, make it impossible to rank as a pure links.
The great Peter Thomson might have described Kinloch as “links-like” in appearance, but the fact that Nicklaus built a golf course requiring, almost without exception, forced carries into each green also distinguishes the layout from the ‘ground game’ strategy that players have the option to employ on a pure links.
The Kinloch Club’s long-time professional, Tom Long, is one of the few to have tamed the layout, holding the course record of seven-under 65 off the black tees – and, perhaps even more incredibly, once shooting a two-over 74 with just a 6-iron. Long has been at Kinloch from day one and continues to be thrilled with what’s ahead of him each time he steps on the tee.
“I’ve never played a golf course like it. You get a completely different game of golf every time you play it. The wind is going to be different; your lie will be different. It keeps you interested, and you continually learn,” Long said.
“It’s more of a hybrid between links and parkland, with most of the trouble coming short of the green. I always tell people that, if in doubt, miss long at Kinloch, as you’ll generally have an easier up and down and hurt your score less than if you come up short.”
The test of golf is exhilarating, to say the least. The par-3s on the back nine alone certainly make you sit up and pay attention, not simply for the beauty of the backdrops but for the variations in the parcels of land you need to carry to reach each putting surface.
Long’s “don’t be short” advice should be ringing in your ears at the 15th and 17th holes, where a tee shot missed short could result in a lost ball – or at the very least, a hurried search down a steep slope of tall fescues.
Although not a links, the homage paid to the traditional style of the game won’t be lost on golfers as they tour the inland layout. Few trees come into play, and it’s rare to find a perfectly flat lie on the fairways. Then there’s the rugged bunkering style and thicker, rough grasses beyond the playing corridors that would align more closely with an Open Championship setup.
And to suggest Kinloch’s fairways are ‘undulating’ would be an understatement. There are stretches of fairway that more closely resemble a mogul ski run, and on occasions I was concerned about the prospect of flipping a golf cart by getting an angle wrong or driving too quickly.
Kinloch’s golf manager, Mike West, echoed Long’s sentiments about the course and made mention of the different sets of tees that are available for players, stretching back to the Black tees at 6,600 metres. Nicklaus himself said the course was meant to be “sporty”, and playing from more forward tees would ensure people had fun, while West said the recent introduction of a ‘Combo’
‘‘
THE KINLOCH CLUB’S LONG-TIME PROFESSIONAL, TOM LONG, IS ONE OF THE FEW TO HAVE TAMED THE LAYOUT, HOLDING THE COURSE RECORD OF SEVEN-UNDER 65 OFF THE BLACK TEES – AND, PERHAPS EVEN MORE INCREDIBLY, ONCE SHOOTING A TWO-OVER 74 WITH JUST A 6-IRON.”
course – with a selection of holes from the Blue and White tees – had proven very popular.
Long continued, “Many of the greens are wider than they are deep, so picking the right tees here, so you can go into the green with some elevation, is key.
“The undulations on and around the greens also demand that you have an array of short-game shots. You can’t just pull out a lob wedge before you even get to your golf ball; you also need to have the 7-iron bump-and-run, or maybe even chipping with a hybrid, to create a shot.”
Whether you visit Kinloch just to play golf or choose to spend a night or two in one of the magnificently appointed
on-course villas around the Lodge, an afternoon tee time will allow you the opportunity of some post-round refreshments ahead of a twilight setting to be savoured.
With the sunset dipping over the broad expanse of Lake Taupo and nearby mountains, there are few more tranquil places to take in the view than from your villa balcony or the Lodge verandas, high on the bluff that splits the two nines. The fescue roughs are enveloped in a warm sea of gold that contrasts magically with the rich green of the fairways and the shimmer on the lake, dragging golfers and guests forward in a desperate attempt to capture the scene for posterity.
It’s easy to see what drew Jack Nicklaus to this area many times over, joining all those who have enjoyed the beauty and serenity of Kinloch. ▪
www.kinlochgolf.co.nz
Staying over at Kinloch Manor & Villas (above) allows guests to enjoy some of the many other activities in the Taupo region, such as geothermal hot pools, sailing, fishing, mountain biking, hiking, skydiving, white-water rafting and more.
ON COURSE STYLE PERFORMANCE &
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THE TOUR PLAYER WHOSE GAME AND CAREER IMPLODED AFTER WINNING THE 1991 OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP OPENS UP ON HIS ANGUISH AND REDEMPTION IN A NEW TELL-ALL BIOGRAPHY.
Between the bookends of Ian Baker-Finch’s roller-coaster golfing career stand two contrasting pinnacles. The first appeared in 1991 when, at the age of 30, he won the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale, beating out a veritable who’s who of golf at the time: Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo (the defending champion), Seve Ballesteros at the peak of his powers, Greg Norman, Fred Couples and a host of other big-name Americans.
Three years later came the second – albeit inverted – pinnacle, a dramatic form loss that quickly turned into a personal train wreck, which led to his walking away from the competitive game at what should have been the peak of his playing powers. Essentially, he couldn’t stop hooking the ball off the tee. It became an awful ongoing nightmare, missing cuts week after week. His income dried up and the whole horrible, mystifying trauma was playing out in front of a baying worldwide golf media.
The years following his Open win should have been the big-money years for the Queenslander – more titles, possibly another one or two majors and cash by the truckload pouring through his front door. Alas, to put it in medical terms, his game had become terminal. Standing on the first tee with a golf club in his hand, he’d become a psychological mess.
This likeable fellow didn’t lack for advice. He received thousands of messages, some of it downright cruel. Even caddies were having a laugh at his expense. A joke among the bag handlers asked, “Who’s the best golfer to work for?” Answer, “Ian Baker-Finch, because you get every weekend off.”
Undeterred by this deepening malaise, he rang the changes, searching for a solution. He changed balls, he changed clubs – both at the same time, which he later confessed was unwise. He hired a string of coaches, including David Leadbetter, to rebuild his swing. By 1995 he was in dire straits. That year he played in 15 tournaments on the USPGA Tour and missed the cut in every one. At this stage, he admits, “I was in a terrible mess.”
In the clubhouse after his round, he collapsed. Enough was enough. He could no longer endure the pain, the torment, the insufferable anguish that stalked him every day of his life on and off the course. It was affecting even his relationships with his wife and children. It was time to walk away from competitive golf. This inexplicable implosion of his game was now threatening to destroy the very soul of this compassionate and amiable Queenslander. So, six years after being crowned Open Champion at the age of 30, ‘IBF’ exited from playing the game he loved.
The tale of Baker-Finch’s demise is best summed up by the man who knew him and his game probably better than anyone else in the world –Peter Thomson, five times winner of the Open Championship. He first spotted the young IBF
A JOKE AMONG THE BAG HANDLERS ASKED,
“WHO’S THE BEST GOLFER TO WORK FOR?”
ANSWER,
“
IAN BAKER-FINCH,
BECAUSE YOU GET EVERY WEEKEND OFF.” ‘‘
The Leadbetter approach, which included taking six weeks off and getting super-fit, didn’t change anything. All he was doing was tiring himself out physically. He was now having worrying medical problems; his back, his shoulders and feet all needed medical attention. Nonetheless, because he had an exemption for the event, his Aussie mates urged him to play the 1997 Open Championship at Troon. In hindsight, he says, it was one of the worst decisions he’d ever made. In howling winds, he low-hooked his way round the course, shooting 92.
when he was still a teenager and took him under his wing from an early age. Before his death, Thomson noted that, “the Ian Baker-Finch story was the saddest story in golf. Until his redemption in the game as a commentator”.
Now, a quarter of a century after walking away from the game he loved, Baker-Finch breaks his silence and tells his story, in his own words, of how his peerless swing so completely fell apart.
To tell his story, Baker-Finch turned not to one of the many well-regarded Australian golf writers,
Ian Baker-Finch, with his young daughter Hayley, tasting victory at the 120th Open Championship at Royal Birkdale Golf Club, 1991.
TOP LEFT : “The Boys on the Bus”, Ian Baker-Finch (third from left), one of 10 young pros on the Sushine Tour, 1980. BELOW: Peter Thomson offering advice to Baker-Finch. OPPOSTIE PAGE, LEFT: In the early 1990s, the greens became a nightmare that Ian lived through. RIGHT: In recent years, Ian has been on the mic on tour sharing his expert opinion with viewers.
nor a tell-all TV show, but to a retired New Zealand lawyer, Geoff Saunders, who, some four decades earlier, following a successful amateur career, had himself tried his hand at life as a professional golfer.
Saunders quickly realised this tough, demanding life wasn’t for him and, as you do, he became a lawyer (and a successful one at that), as well as a prominent golf administrator. One of Saunders’ life-long golfing buddies has been Sir Bob Charles and in 2018 he asked Charlie if he could write his life story. It proved to be a very successful exercise. Ian Baker-Finch read the book and was impressed with Saunders’ style, which he felt allowed the subject to tell his own story without unwanted intrusion from the author.
The two had crossed paths at various times in their respective golfing days and on one recent occasion Saunders asked Baker-Finch if he could write “the Baker-Finch story” to try to find out what exactly went wrong. It prompted this reply from the golfer: “I want to know what the hell happened to me as well!” And so the book was born.
Make no mistake; the chapters where IBF details what went wrong make at times for some fairly brutal reading. Saunders has done a superb job in getting the man to open up completely and delve deeply into that existential nightmare he lived through for three to five years in the early 1990s. To his eternal credit, Baker-Finch, in turn, clearly decided to tell all; but in his words and no one else’s. Maybe it was the passage of time that helped soften those deep internal wounds he had wrestled with for years. Finally, now, he could stare down those golfing demons and reflect honestly on this calamity. Perhaps this exercise has also been of some genuine therapeutic value.
In my experience, as one who has had to read far more than his fair share of ho-hum sports books in the name of so-called professional duty, I can’t recall one where the subject has been so savagely honest about his own personal sporting failures.
This helps explain why it’s taken Baker-Finch nearly 30 years to tell his story. At one point Saunders asked him why he waited so long to open up about this episode. His answer was simple but revealing: “To have relived this period of my life any earlier was simply too traumatic an experience. I just couldn’t do it.”
I’ve always thought Ian Baker-Finch was (if you’ll forgive me) rather too nice and gentlemanly to fit the image of your typical ‘Ocker’. This was confirmed for me when I worked as a co-commentator with Ian telecasting the NZ Open in Auckland many years back.
In the end, IBF has come through his mid-life crisis none too worse for wear. His warm, amiable manner and a strong inner soul is, I suspect, what enabled him to survive this cruel fate dealt to him. Listening to him now in his role as one of the game’s pre-eminent television golf commentators – knowledgeable, intelligent and relaxed – you may wonder if he could have achieved this status in the cutthroat world of
AS IAN BAKERFINCH SO ODDLY BUT DELIGHTFULLY ILLUSTRATES, AT THE END OF THE DAY IT’S JUST A BLOODY GAME!”
American television if his mental persona was still scarred and haunted by the torments of his playing days. In many other sports where scandal, tragedy or loss of form overwhelm sports idols, they often crash and burn; take a look at the number of once-famous British footballers, for starters, who’ve fallen through the cracks. Sorry, soccer fans, golf is the beautiful game, but amidst its beauty lurk evil viruses that seek to reduce us all to tears and anger.
All golfers will enjoy this tough tale, whether you are a scratch player or a 36-handicapper, because the kind of travails that beset IBF’s game have at some time or other visited us all.
Yet, as Ian Baker-Finch so oddly but delightfully illustrates, at the end of the day it’s just a bloody game! ▪
Ian Baker-Finch: To Hell and Back, published by Hardie Grant Books. On sale in New Zealand from 2 June.
THE BOYS OF SUMMER
A NEW BOOK BY MASTER CADDIE STEVE WILLIAMS AND GOLF WRITER EVIN PRIEST IS THE INSIDE STORY OF THE WILLIAMS-TIGER WOODS PARTNERSHIP THAT OVER 12 YEARS PRODUCED THE GREATEST STREAK OF VICTORIES IN THE HISTORY OF GOLF. WORDS: TOM HYDE.
It’s one of the most memorable moments in golf. In the final round of the 1999 PGA Championship played at Medinah Country Club outside of Chicago, Tiger Woods, then aged 23, was holding off a 19-year-old Spanish upstart named Sergio Garcia. Garcia was a golf protégé introduced to the world at the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale the year before by his compatriot and mentor, Seve Ballesteros.
At Medinah on that Sunday, Garcia was one shot behind Tiger on the back nine. He had bogeyed the 15th hole and at the par-4 16th left his tee shot tucked up against the base of a tree. His attempt to chase down Woods looked to be doomed. He pulled a 6-iron from
What golf fans who can recall that shot may not know about is the boom-or-bust drama going on elsewhere between Tiger Woods and his new, highly charged caddie, Steve Williams, who had been on the job just five months. It was a player-caddie tension that Williams has now revealed for the first time in We Roared Together, a detailed, shot-by-shot account of his career looping for the greatest player ever. The book is co-authored with Australian golf writer Evin Priest and published by HarperCollins.
When Woods and his new bagman from New Zealand turned up for the PGA Championship that year they were still getting to know each other. Woods’ trust in his new guy was yet to be established and that left the caddie on edge,
‘‘
WOODS CALLED IN WILLIAMS AND SAID HE WAS AIMING ABOUT A CUP OUTSIDE THE HOLE BUT WASN’T CERTAIN.
“NO WAY, AIM INSIDE THE LEFT LIP,” WILLIAMS SAID. “ARE YOU SURE?” WOODS ASKED.
“F---ING ABSOLUTELY, IT ONLY BREAKS A BIT. AIM INSIDE THE HOLE,” WILLIAMS RESPONDED.”
his bag and without a lot of fanfare sliced the ball around the trunk of the tree and up the fairway. The ball reached the green in regulation. Garcia followed up the shot by hopping up the fairway like an excited child. It was unprecedented and so endearing the gallery began to chant his name. (The clip can be found on YouTube today.)
anxious that one mistake might mean the end of the relationship.
Garcia was in the clubhouse one shot behind Woods when Tiger was faced with a critical sixfoot putt for par on the 17th hole. Woods and Williams read the break differently. If Williams had backed off and bowed to his new boss, he
would have demonstrated compliance, but at what price? As Evin Priest writes:
“Woods called in Williams and said he was aiming about a cup outside the hole but wasn’t certain.
“No way, aim inside the left lip,” Williams said.
“Are you sure?” Woods asked.
“F---ing absolutely, it only breaks a bit. Aim inside the hole,” Williams responded.
Williams, a master reader of greens, turned out to be right, and while the gallery was hoping for a playoff, Woods followed his new caddie’s line, saved par and went on to win his second major. Trust between player and caddie was never in doubt again and the floodgates opened.
For the next 12 years, the Tiger Woods-Steve Williams team would win 73 tournaments worldwide, including 13 majors. Tiger became the first (and likely the last) player to win a career grand slam (all four majors) twice. Six times he was runner-up in a major and, as Williams notes at one point in the book, Tiger had three other majors in his sights but lost because of an uncharacteristic errant shot.
The records Woods set during that span, and noted in the book – at Pebble Beach, Augusta and elsewhere, from lowest scores to consecutive rounds without a 3-putt – are mindboggling. And, yes, there’s Williams’ insight into that unbelievable chip – perhaps the most viewed highlight of Woods’ entire career – at the 16th hole of the Masters in 2005.
Tiger was leading Chris DeMarco by a single shot when, at the 16th hole on Sunday, his 8-iron approach sailed over the green. The ball came to rest at the back in rough.
Priest writes: “Woods hounded Williams on the walk up to the green, ‘Stevie, what’s over there? Do I have a shot?’ Williams piped back, “Tiger, I have no f---ing clue, mate! I’ve never been over there.”
“Woods stabbed at the ball with his 60-degree wedge… [it] took a vicious right turn and crept
toward the hole at a glacial pace…”
And you know the rest.
It was the second-greatest chip-shot in Masters history after Larry Mize’s improbable shot from 140 feet on the 11th hole that won the 1987 Masters in a playoff against Greg Norman. But in this instance, readers of Together We Roared, get the caddie’s inside story about all that went on before Tiger stepped up to the ball.
Tiger winning another PGA Championship in 2000 in a heart-stopping playoff with Bob May; his Open Championship wins at St Andrews and elsewhere; and his remarkable, soldierly win over Rocco Mediate at the 2008 US Open at Torrey Pines while effectively playing on one leg – all these are in the book with Williams’ commentary –commentary that provides a peek into his and Woods’ professional and private lives together. Including the events that led to their sad and sudden split, which Williams confesses left him shocked and hurt, and which he accepts was as much his doing as Tiger’s.
The Boys of Summer?
Before each tournament, Williams chose a song for him to sing (in his mind, not for public consumption) with lyrics that expressed the challenge at hand. When asked by Evin Priest what song might sum up his years with Tiger Woods, Williams chose Don Henley’s of Summer
That would have made a better title for this book had it not been used long ago for a book on American baseball. Still, one cannot judge a book by its cover and in this instance, I find it hard to imagine why anyone who plays golf and is a fan of the game would not want to read this one. Well done boys! ▪
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THE NEW
AUGUSTA NATIONAL
A COURSE LIKE NO OTHER
VICTORY AT AUGUSTA NATIONAL BEGINS WITH MASTERING THE COURSE’S UNIQUE FEATURES, FICKLE CONDITIONS, MULTIPLE CHALLENGES – AND KEEPING YOUR COOL. WORDS: TOM LONG.
Since 1934, apart from three years during World War II when play was suspended, the Masters has been held each year at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia. It is the ultimate test of precision, skill and mental fortitude. Yet, some few exceptional golfers have managed to conquer Augusta more than once, crafting legacies that cement their place in the game’s history. But how do these players manage to win there repeatedly? What are the secrets behind their success? To answer this, we must look at both the distinctive characteristics of the course and the qualities these multiple winners share.
AUGUSTA
NATIONAL
IS UNIQUE
It’s important first to appreciate what makes Augusta National so unique. Designed originally by Dr Alister MacKenzie in collaboration with Bobby Jones on land that had been a plant nursery, the course has evolved over the years with input from nearly a dozen different golf architects, alongside suggestions from players including Ben Hogan, Gene Sarazen, Byron Nelson and, of course, Jack Nicklaus.
It is this finessing of detail, the constant adjustment, recontouring and repositioning of greens and bunkers, water features, trees and tees that means it continues to be the definitive risk-and-reward venue. Holes that were once benign par-4s have now become exacting tests of nerve. Some regard the brilliant white imported quartz sand in the bunkers, the ultra-wide fairways bordered by quasi rough of imported pine needles, the underground heating, aeration and irrigation systems as excessively artificial. But in April each year, a select group of competitors test their talent and their wit against its many challenges among which are:
▪ Undulating terrain: Augusta’s famous rolling hills, sloping fairways and super-fast greens make it difficult to judge both putts and approaches. Augusta is a course where control and position are far more important than raw power – although length off the tee can make for an easier second shot.
▪ Amen Corner: Holes 11 through 13, at the beginning of the final day’s back nine, are among the most famous and demanding in golf. The combination of water, tall trees which disguise wind direction, and lightning-fast
greens demand precision, and nerves of steel. Water only features on five holes at Augusta, but what water! There are 44 bunkers, 32 are greenside, with ones like the one at the front of the green on the 12th familiar to viewers the world over.
▪ The greens: Augusta’s Bermuda bent grass greens are fast and undulating, making putting incredibly difficult. Stimp ratings of 14 and an estimated 18 on the 16th are nearly double the speed ordinary golfers play on. Famously, Ernie Els once six-putted the first green from two feet. The subtlest of breaks often take the ball past the hole at a gathering pace. This makes reading the Augusta greens a mix of experience and intuition. Nowhere is this more evident than on the triple-tiered 14th green. Ben Crenshaw called it, “the most threeputtable green in America”.
▪ Wind: Most of the fairways are lined by mature pine trees, making it difficult to judge wind direction and strength. The wind also funnels unpredictably around the layout, meaning experience is often vital to eliminate guesswork. Parts of the course also have the most extraordinary acoustics, a function of the large areas of water and the high walls of pines. The Masters sound is unique in golf: intimate, echoing and sometimes unnerving.
SO WHAT DOES IT TAKE? STAYING
COMPOSED UNDER PRESSURE
There have been many one-off winners of the Masters, those of undoubted talent who hit a streak of form at the right time and found putts dropping and fortune favouring them. But the multiple winners we will be looking at all have extraordinary mental toughness and resilience; arguably the most important attribute for any golfer at Augusta National. They can grind it out, forget the dropped shot, and focus, focus, focus. Augusta will chew up and spit out those who lose their cool. Players who win multiple Masters
Arnold Palmer
tend to be exceptional at managing the intense pressure moments and somehow staying calm, particularly during the tension-filled final nine on championship Sunday.
Jack Nicklaus, with his six Masters victories, is the epitome of mental resilience. Nicklaus won his first Masters in 1963 and his sixth in 1986, a span of 23 years between victories. This kind of sustained success in a tournament where mental fortitude is paramount is a testament to Nicklaus’ ability to perform under extreme pressure. His approach was never rushed, never overly emotional. Nicklaus approached Augusta with the composure of a man who knew the course inside and out and knew that he could win.
Tiger Woods’ five Masters titles, including a stunning comeback win in 2019, show that he, too, had incredible mental strength. He handled tension, and was able to maintain focus in the face of adversity. Augusta National can quickly change the course of a player’s round, but Woods is a master at regaining control when things start going wrong.
More than that, Tiger Woods’ amazing achievement in 1997 – being the youngest-ever winner, with the lowest score and by the biggest margin – needs to be seen in terms of his colour.
In 1975, a year before Tiger was born, Lee Elder had been the first black player invited to play in the Masters. Charlie Sifford, one of Woods’ mentors, quotes Clifford Roberts, the founding chairman of Augusta National, as saying, “as long as I live there will be nothing at the Masters but black caddies and white golfers”. Woods confronted a racist legacy and became a supremely popular, charismatic figure.
COURSE MANAGEMENT
While raw talent and skill are necessary, course management is a crucial factor at Augusta. The most successful Masters players tend to exhibit a rare blend of patience and strategy. Augusta National’s layout rewards players who are meticulous and calculated, and those who can avoid mistakes through intelligent course management often find themselves contending for the title year after year.
Nick Faldo, with three Masters wins, epitomises this strategic approach. Faldo’s ability to play smart, conservative golf, particularly with his irons, was a
significant factor in him winning three Green Jackets. His precision and commitment to sticking to a game plan – knowing when to be aggressive and when to hold back – allowed him to compete consistently at Augusta, even at a time in his career when he wasn’t hitting it as far as the younger players.
MASTERING THE GREENS
Another critical aspect of success at Augusta is the short game, particularly putting. Augusta’s greens are notoriously fast, and their undulations require a deft touch. Players who win multiple Masters titles often have a reputation for being exceptional putters and short-game wizards.
‘‘
ARNOLD PALMER’S SUCCESS AT AUGUSTA WASN’T JUST ABOUT HITTING FAIRWAYS AND GREENS IN REGULATION; IT WAS ABOUT HIS ABILITY TO CAPITALISE ON THE SCORING OPPORTUNITIES AROUND THE GREENS.”
Arnold Palmer, a four-time Masters champion, was known for his dynamic short game. Palmer’s putting stroke, although ugly, was one of the most reliable out there and his chipping ability around the greens was equally impressive. His success at Augusta wasn’t just about hitting fairways and greens in regulation; it was about his ability to capitalise on the scoring opportunities around the greens.
Gary Player, like Faldo a three-time winner of the Masters, was also a genius around the greens, particularly from bunkers. He possessed a sharp short game that allowed him to recover from difficult positions. Whether it was a delicate chip over Augusta’s fast greens or a clutch putt under pressure, Player’s short game was the key to his repeated success.
The ability to save par, scramble, and make crucial putts under pressure is often what separates the contenders from the champions at Augusta. This is an area where players like Mickelson and Woods have excelled, even when their tee-to-green game wasn’t perfect. Woods’ ability to save par from 10 feet was legendary.
EXPERIENCE AND FAMILIARITY
One of the most important factors in winning the Masters more than once is experience. Augusta National is a course that demands familiarity. The players who have been able to repeat their success at Augusta have not only mastered the course physically but have also developed an intimate knowledge of its nuances.
Jack Nicklaus famously described the course as his “second home”. His years of experience and his ability to make subtle adjustments each year at Augusta helped him win six times, with his final victory coming in 1986 at age 46. Nicklaus’ knowledge of Augusta –understanding when to push, when to back off and how to manage the frequently changing weather conditions – were all keys to his success.
For Tiger Woods, his deep understanding of Augusta has allowed him to repeatedly dominate the course. Woods has been known to prepare for Augusta months in advance, not just in terms of physical practice but by
mentally rehearsing his strategy. His repeated victories at the Masters, including the 2019 triumph after an 11year drought, show that understanding the course and adapting to its evolving conditions can be a key factor in success.
FITNESS AND SWING
Though Augusta is a course that places a premium on strategy and mental strength, physical conditioning and swing mechanics remain key components of success. The ability to hit precise shots and endure the gruelling four days of competition is a testament to a player’s physical fitness.
Tiger Woods, in particular, revolutionised the sport with his dedication to physical fitness, bringing a level of conditioning to golf that hadn’t been seen before. His combination of power and precision, especially in his prime years, allowed him to dominate courses like Augusta. Even as Woods aged and dealt with injuries, his swing mechanics and conditioning helped him return to the Masters winner’s circle in 2019.
Players like Phil Mickelson, who is also known for his physical fitness and ability to endure the demands of Augusta’s terrain, have also benefitted from a combination of proper conditioning and swing mechanics. Mickelson’s ability to hit the ball long while still maintaining accuracy is a testament to his overall physical and technical preparation.
Jack Nicklaus
UNDERSTANDING THE COURSE AND ADAPTING TO ITS EVOLVING CONDITIONS CAN BE A KEY FACTOR IN SUCCESS.”
PATIENCE, PRECISION, PREPARATION
The players who win the Masters multiple times share a perfect blend of patience, precision and preparation. They know Augusta National demands a steady hand and an adaptable mindset. These players also put in the necessary work to hone every aspect of their game –mentally, physically and tactically.
MASTERY OF AUGUSTA NATIONAL
Winning the Masters more than once is no easy feat. Augusta National is a demanding, ever-changing challenge that requires a rare combination of skill, patience, mental toughness and strategic acumen. The players who win the Masters multiple times possess these qualities in abundance.
Bobby Jones, the founder of Augusta National and a winner of the original Masters (then called the Augusta National Invitational), once said, “Golf is a game of patience and precision.” This philosophy continues to resonate with modern-day Masters champions. The players who succeed multiple times at Augusta have internalised this message, understanding that Augusta isn’t a course to be conquered with brute force but negotiated with calculation and consistent excellence. ▪
MULTIPLE WINS
JACK NICKLAUS
TIGER WOODS
ARNOLD PALMER
Bobby Jones, founder of Augusta National.
STEVE WILLIAMS
Tiger Woods and Steve Williams celebrate the win at the Masters, 2001.
ON HALLOWED GROUND
WITH SPRING IN THE USA SIGNIFYING THE FIRST MAJOR OF THE YEAR, THE GROUND STAFF AT AUGUSTA NATIONAL IN GEORGIA WILL HAVE BEEN BUSY PREPARING THE COURSE FOR THE MASTERS, THE BENCHMARK FOR ALL OTHER MAJOR TOURNAMENTS.
The thousands of people from around the world fortunate enough to get tickets (via lottery) to the Masters practice rounds make that bucket-list trip in order to spend time on the hallowed ground of Augusta National. What other sporting event generates so much demand for tickets to attend practice?
Like everyone attending the Masters for the first time, the excitement couldn’t have been higher as I made my caddying debut in 1988 with ‘The Shark’ – Greg Norman. Not being one to abide by rules, I immediately sensed an air of stuffiness and the clear message that everyone on these grounds observe all the rules or you will not be welcome back!
Greg came into the event in great form after winning three events in Australia earlier in the year along with a couple of top-fives on the PGA Tour. An opening 77 put any thoughts of winning to an end and made for a very grumpy Shark. Greg’s desire to win this event was greater than any player I’d ever caddied for and was probably the
‘‘
LIKE EVERYONE ATTENDING THE MASTERS
FOR THE FIRST TIME, THE EXCITEMENT COULDN’T HAVE BEEN HIGHER AS I MADE MY CADDYING DEBUT IN 1988 WITH ‘THE SHARK’ – GREG NORMAN.”
reason he never won it. He followed his 77 with a 73 to make the cut and then shot rounds of 71 and 64 – the course record at the time – to finish in fifth place.
It was an emotional roller-coaster of a week, but The Shark was happy and we would go on to win at Hilton Head the next week.
I would to go on to caddie in the following 29 Masters, making my 30th and final trip in 2017. Victories came with Tiger in 2000, 2001 and 2005 and Adam Scott in 2013.
OPPOSITE PAGE: Greg Norman with Steve Williams walking on to the 18th green at the 1988 Masters.
The walk up the last in any major is an incredible moment, more so if the title is safely in the bag. Tiger never had that luxury with any of the three wins we shared, and that makes the walk very demanding as you stride up that steep climb to the highest point on the course, the 18th green. You can’t make an error in club selection to the 18th hole position on the Sunday, so concentration is vital as you weigh up every factor to ensure the right club is chosen.
My fourth and final time on the winner’s bag came in 2013, when Adam Scott became the first Aussie to slip on the Green Jacket. When you consider the many great Aussie pros that played at Augusta before him, it’s hard to believe Adam was the first. And with a further 10 championships played since that day, he remains the only winner from Downunder. Kiwi legend Sir Bob Charles’ best finish at the Masters was T15, while fellow great Michael Campbell played the Masters 10 times and never made the cut.
Augusta definitely tends to suit some players and not others. For Colin Montgomerie, arguably the best player not to have won a major, his best finish at Augusta was a T8. Charles, Campbell and Montgomerie all had one thing in common: their ball trajectory was lower, and with the hard, fast greens at Augusta a high ball flight is certainly an advantage.
Being on the bag for Adam’s win in 2013 and Tiger’s victory in 2001, to capture four consecutive majors, are memories I’ll never forget. From caddying at Paraparaumu Beach Golf Club as a youngster to walking the fairways of the best-manicured course in the world shows you dreams do come true. As a kid watching the Masters with my dad, I told him, “I’ll be there one day in those white overalls.” To which he replied, “Yeah, right!” ▪
OPPOSITE PAGE: Adam Scott and Steve Williams celebrate the win on the 18th green at the 2013 Masters.
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AUGUSTA NATIONAL – 18TH HOLE
HOLLY
RATED THE SEVENTH HARDEST HOLE AT AUGUSTA NATIONAL, THE 18TH IS THE FINAL TEST FOR A WOULD-BE MASTERS CHAMPION.
The 18th hole at Augusta National is named after the American Holly plant (ilex opaca), which produces small red berries and is particularly popular at Christmas time.
Augusta’s par-4, 425m 18th is one of the most famous closing holes in golf, opening with a tee shot played through a narrow chute of pine trees. The seventh-
Sandy Lyle hit one of the most underappreciated shots in Masters history. Lyle’s approach into the final green during the final round proved to be the difference as he made birdie on 18 to pip Mark Calcavecchia by a stroke to win the green jacket at the 1998 Masters.
Jack Nicklaus lines up his winning putt on the 18th hole in the 1965 Masters, carding a record setting 271 for the tournament.
hardest hole on the course, it was lengthened by 50 metres in 2002, and the following year the tee was moved back another 13 metres to its present location.
The fairway dog-legs to the right, climbing uphill from the tee. In 1967 The elbow was given protection on the left with two very large bunkers. But fade the tee shot too far right and
THE MOST DIFFICULT HOLE LOCATION IS BACK-LEFT”
– TIGER WOODS ABOUT THE 18TH HOLE AT AUGUSTA NATIONAL. ‘‘
you’ll wind up in the pine straw under trees. A good drive down the centre of the fairway will open up the green for an uphill mid-iron second shot, hopefully landing on the dancefloor.
The elevated green, with two distinct tiers, is guarded by bunkers on both sides. The tough pin placement on Sunday is the final test, one that can be the difference between offering a gentleman’s handshake or a Green Jacket celebration. ▪
THE BEST ON
The best score ever recorded on the 18th is an eagle two, which has happened five times in Masters history. These are the golfers who’ve holed-out their approach shots for an eagle:
-2
1948 Felice Torza
1962 Denis Hutchinson
1974 Jim Colbert
1997 John Huston
2006 Chris DiMarco
The best-ever four-round total on No. 18 goes to John Huston in the 1997 Masters. Huston played the 18th in four-under for the tournament, a total of 12 strokes. He scored a two in the first round, a three in the second, a four in the third, and finished with a birdiethree in the final round.
18THE WORST ON
The all-time worst score on the 18th hole is an eight – a quadruple bogey – and eight golfers share that dismal record. Four of them are major championship winners and two are Masters champions. These are the golfers who’ve made eights on 18:
8+
1959 Denny Shute
1970 Homero Blancas
1994 Jumbo Ozaki
1995 Ian Baker-Finch
2000 Arnold Palmer
2007 Camilo Villegas
2012 Henrik Stenson
2022 Jose Maria Olazabal
Art Veneziana of Italy, available exclusively at Sarsfield Brooke.
Stromboli collection, designed by Giovanni Luca Ferreri Venetian glass acid-etched, hand painted and silvered.
www.sarsfieldbrooke.co.nz
SCOTLAND 72 HOLES IN
THERE ARE UPWARDS OF 10,000 GOLF HOLES IN SCOTLAND, THE HOME OF THE GAME. HERE ARE 72 OF THEM – FOUR GREAT ROUNDS – ACCESSIBLE TO ALL WHO WOULD LIKE TO PLAY THEM. WORDS: MALCOLM CAMPBELL.
BRORA GOLF CLUB
There was a very sound reason why, for many years, five-times Open champion Peter Thomson travelled annually to the tiny Highland village of Brora, at the very top corner of Scotland. It was not for the famous fishing tackle shop, or the fine Clyneleish malt whisky distilled there – although both would be reason enough. No, it was to enjoy the delights of one of the least known but finest of all of Scotland’s traditional links courses.
The great man, who was one of the masters of the classic links game, made no secret of his love for this remote links, with its outstanding setting on the shores of the Dornoch Firth. He believed it to be one of the finest examples of pure links golf anywhere and a classic among the great golf courses left to the world by his fellow five-times Open champion, James Braid.
On a cold January day in 1924, Braid made the 625-mile-long rail journey from London to Brora to advise on changes to John Sutherland’s 1897 layout. Braid took only the time needed before the departure of the next train south to plan a renovation that today remains much as he advised.
His fee was £25, surely one of the best-value contributions ever to the royal and ancient game.
THE NEW COURSE, ST ANDREWS
Don’t be confused by the name. The New Course, like almost everything else at St Andrews, is not ‘new’ in any conventional sense of the word. It dates back to 1895, when the Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews engaged the services of an Edinburgh civil engineering firm to build the New Course in response to the growing demand for golf in the ‘Auld Grey Toon’. The design was sensibly left in the hands of Old Tom Morris, the ‘Keeper of the Green’ at St Andrews, and his assistant, David Honeyman.
The result is one of the most underrated of all of Scotland’s classic links courses.
Were it not for the fact that it lives in the shadow of its more illustrious sister, the famous Old Course, it would command a far greater international reputation.
Its four short holes have to be considered amongst the finest collection of par-3s assembled anywhere in Scotland.
DUMBARNIE LINKS
When it opened in 2020 in a secluded corner of the ancient Kingdom of Fife, only a few miles from St Andrews, Dumbarnie Links was immediately acclaimed a modern masterpiece. More than 20 years in the planning but barely six months in construction, Dumbarnie emerged from one of the few remaining stretches of natural links land left on Scotland’s east coast.
Designed by former Walker and Ryder Cup player Clive Clark, Dumbarnie immediately won international awards for its test of shot-making, its risk-and-reward holes and its spectacular setting. Taking full advantage of a large escarpment site on a long stretch of beach beside Largo Bay, Clive Clark sculpted 18 memorable holes, most of which play towards the sea with unparalleled views across the Firth of Forth to the great links of Muirfield and Gullane and the Lothian Hills beyond.
There are split-fairway options from the tee on several holes and although three of the par-4s are driveable for long hitters given the right conditions, the penalty for the ego that fails to match performance is just as penal as it should be.
Testament to the quality of this modern links is the most often heard comment from those who play it for the first time: “It looks as if it has been here for a hundred years.”
Dumbarnie Links.
The New Course, St Andrews.
WEST LINKS, NORTH BERWICK
This famous golf course at North Berwick, on the southern shores of the Firth of Forth, is a classic example of what the notable golf course architect and golf administrator, Sir Guy Campbell, referred to as the ‘Primitive Age’ of golf – the period from the beginning of the game up to the arrival of the gutta percha golf ball in 1848.
Sir Guy’s comment was not a deprecation of this venerable links but merely a reflection of its antiquity and its place among a very special group of courses that evolved naturally, owing very little to the hand of man. In this regard it stands in exalted company alongside the likes of Royal Dornoch, Montrose, Elie and Musselburgh and the most famous of them all, the Old Course at St Andrews.
This is golf in the classic vein on an ancient links where there are blind shots, great ridges across fairways and even a wall that must be played over (an unusual and
fascinating challenge shared, incidentally, with its modern-day counterpart at Dumbarnie Links, only 14 miles across the Firth of Forth as the crow flies).
‘‘
THIS IS GOLF IN THE CLASSIC VEIN ON AN ANCIENT LINKS WHERE THERE ARE BLIND SHOTS, GREAT RIDGES ACROSS FAIRWAYS AND EVEN A WALL THAT MUST BE PLAYED OVER.”
It is home to one of the most famous holes in golf: the 15th, known as the Redan, a long par-3 played to a plateau green set at an angle to the line of play and copied, or used as inspiration, by golf course architects in many settings since. ▪
West Links, North Berwick.
A LEGACY OF CHAMPIONS
FOR NEARLY SIX DECADES, ROLEX HAS BEEN SYNONYMOUS WITH GOLF, FORGING AN ENDURING BOND THAT CONTINUES TO DEFINE THE SPORT.
From thrilling victories to historic milestones, the Swiss watchmaker’s partnership with golf celebrates not just the triumphs, but the precision, grit and excellence that define its champions.
Rolex’s journey with golf began in 1967, when legends Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player – the ‘Big Three’ – became its first Testimonees. Their alliance was rooted in shared values: integrity, humility and a relentless pursuit of perfection. That legacy endures, with Rolex Testimonees dominating the sport’s grandest stages. The 2024 season dazzled with their brilliance, and 2025 is promising more, headlined by a stellar slate of anniversaries and showdowns.
The ‘Big Three’, Rolex Testimonees Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus and Gary Player.
This year marks the 45th Ryder Cup, hosted at Bethpage Black, where Rolex celebrates 30 years as a European team partner. Team spirit and fierce competition will collide on this revered course. Meanwhile, the Masters Tournament honours 40 years since Bernhard Langer’s 1985 Green Jacket, his last Augusta dance and the 25th anniversary of Tiger Woods’ 2000 rampage, when he swept the US Open,
ROLEX’S JOURNEY WITH GOLF BEGAN IN 1967, WHEN LEGENDS ARNOLD PALMER, JACK NICKLAUS, AND GARY PLAYER – THE ‘BIG THREE’ – BECAME ITS FIRST TESTIMONEES.”
The Open and PGA Championship. Woods’ 2001 Masters win, completing the ‘Tiger Slam’, remains at the pinnacle of modern golf. The men’s majors roll on with the PGA Championship at Quail Hollow (May 15-18), the 125th US Open at Oakmont – its 10th time there – and The Open at Royal Portrush (July 17-20), the club’s third hosting.
In women’s golf, Rolex backs all five majors, including the AIG Women’s Open and the Amundi
Evian Championship, 2025 marking 25 years of partnership. Held at France’s Evian Resort Golf Club, it’s the only women’s major in continental Europe. Rolex also champions the Augusta National Women’s Amateur, fuelling the rise of future stars.
Beyond the majors, Rolex’s influence spans the globe. The Rolex Series elevates the DP World Tour with five elite events, while the Asian Tour’s International Series draws top talent worldwide. On the PGA Tour, Rolex supports Signature Events like the Arnold Palmer Invitational and the FedEx Cup Playoffs, showcasing golf’s best. Since 1980, its partnership with the LPGA has honoured standouts via the Rolex LPGA Awards.
Rolex’s commitment extends to golf’s roots, backing amateur and junior events like the Walker Cup and Junior Ryder Cup. These platforms nurture the next generation, reflecting the brand’s ethos of fostering excellence and passion.
In 2025, Rolex Testimonees will again chase history, wearing timepieces as precise as their swings. From Woods’ unmatched feats to Langer’s farewell, the season will weave new chapters into Rolex’s storied tapestry. More than a sponsor, Rolex is golf’s heartbeat: timeless, steady and ever-present, shaping champions who define the game. ▪
Tiger Woods
Arnold Palmer
Lydia Ko
Bernhard Langer
Brooke Henderson
THE NATURE OF GOLF
BIOM
WITH SALES UNDER PRESSURE WORLDWIDE, WATCHMAKERS ARE REIMAGINING THE CREATIVE OPPORTUNITIES OFFERED BY A WATCH’S FACE. THE RESULTS ARE IMPRESSIVE. AND SURPRISING. WORDS: BANI MCSPEDDEN.
DIAL UP THE DAZZLE!
The dial of a watch is something that’s long been taken for granted, the circular face mostly rendered in black, blue or, more recently, green, sometimes silvered and occasionally decorated. But if that has been the norm, things are changing; brands are discovering new ways to bring depth and desire to a timepiece simply by regarding the dial as a blank canvas for fresh treatments and ideas. You want the dial to pop, so why not bring Popeye to the party?
Such treatments may not arrest an overall decline in watch sales after the post-pandemic boom – yes, aside from a few under-brands like Rolex, the market is shrinking, led by a 23 per cent drop in demand in China – but the new dalliance with the dial is bringing more colour and choice to the wrist than ever before. ▪
HOLEY MOLEY!
The Reservoir x Popeye Golf watch brings a touch of comicbook nostalgia to the wrist, the dial fronting a retrograde display in which a club-like minute hand sweeps across a lush green background, the tableau capturing the character in full-swing. Swiss made with selfwinding mechanical movement, limited to 300 pieces on nubuck strap with green edging. The price, around $9,000, tells you this is serious fun.
COCO REFLECTS
The Chanel Boyfriend ‘Coco Art’ watch features Mademoiselle looking at her reflection in her mirrored powder compact case. Rendered in 12 layers of enamel and bordered by 38 baguette-cut pink sapphires, the artwork fronts a manually wound movement. Cased in black-coated steel on a staineffect calf strap, the watch – water resistant to 30m – is limited to 20 examples.
MOTOR MATCH
The Laureato Chronograph Aston Martin Edition is the latest timepiece from Girard-Perregaux’s Aston Martin partnership. And with a nice point of similarity: the dial doesn’t just take on the green hue of the marque’s speedy steeds, but boasts the same automotive-grade paint. Thanks to a timeintensive process involving 15 layers, this means just 188 pieces are on offer. Cased in grade-five titanium with a self-winding movement, it’s yours for $42,100.
TIMELY THOROUGHBRED
The Slim d’Hermès Cheval brossé watch captures a dramatic rendering of a horse’s head, the enamelling applied in successive layers of vivid colour against a sky of blue enamel. This is topped with coloured glass powder mixed with natural oils and fired in a kiln. Spanning 39.5mm in white gold and limited to 24 pieces, inside beats an ultra-thin mechanical movement.
STAR QUALITY
The IWC Pilot’s Performance Chronograph 41 is one of the watches scheduled to star in the forthcoming film F1 The Movie, due for release mid-year and starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris. The watch is a stunner, cased in gold with a black-lacquered dial – the deepest black we’ve seen on an IWC – topped with hand-polished gold indices and numerals ringed by a black ceramic tachymeter bezel. Inside, a fine column-wheel chronograph movement with 46 hours reserve completes the picture.
Cat-A-List
JAGUAR D-TYPE XKD531
JAGUARS HAVE LONG BEEN FAVOURED BY HOLLYWOOD A-LISTERS, A PASSION DRIVEN BY THE CAT’S STYLE AND EARLY DOMINANCE OF LE MANS.
PHOTOS: ROYCE RUMSEY.
Screenwriter Jack Douglas, like Hollywood stars such as Peter Sellers, Harrison Ford, Brad Pitt and Steve McQueen, was crazy about racing – and Jaguar racing cars like the beautiful D-Type XKD531 on these pages, which he bought and campaigned during the mid-1950s.
Jaguar’s marque appeal was largely the work of Sir William Lyons. Lyons emphasised superior design and performance to define the brand, starting in 1948 with the introduction of a new concept car with a 3.5l DOHC inline hemi six ‘XK’ engine.
The sensational new post-War production Jaguars sported the svelte and feline XK 120 body. Lyons aimed the C- and D-Type evolutions of his famous XK 120 and 140s squarely at winning the world’s most prestigious motor race: Le Mans.
The 1951-53 Jaguar XK 120 C was the XK 120 with a tubular frame shrouded in a beautiful aerodynamic alloy body. The C-Type 3.4l DOHC hemi engine was tuned to 220hp and pioneered
disk brakes. The first 148mph C-Types won both 1951 and 1953 Le Mans events.
The C-Type’s successor, the D-Type, was introduced in 1955. The long-nosed D-Types employed a 270hp dry sump engine powering an even more advanced aero body, resulting in a top speed of 172mph – again making Jaguar the fastest production car in the world and winning the 1955 Le Mans five laps ahead of the runner-up. They completely dominated the 1956 Le Mans race with a 1-2-3-4-6 finish. The following year the D-Type was supplanted by the Lister Jag, with the more powerful 3.8l engine and DeDion rear end. After 1958, D-Types were still campaigned in California (but with Corvette engines).
Jack Douglas started racing after buying a C-Type XKC023, and his first race was the 1954 Torrey Pines. He went on to place the number 54 XKC023 eight times in 1955, amassing 30 trophies, landing 10th in national standings and making the cover of the West Coast Sports Car Journal in 1956.
After driving his C-Type for the last time in 1956, Douglas bought the Hornburg D-Type XKD531. At the end of 1956, Jack returned to New
York to write for Jack Paar, then host of TV’s The Tonight Show and the car largely stayed off the racetrack throughout 1957.
Veteran racer and longtime track mate of Jack’s, Ray Seher, bought Jack’s XKD531 in 1958 and drove it extensively — including to and from races.
In 1958, the then new, more powerful and betterhandling Lister Jags presaged the end of the D-Types, but Seher continued racing the XKD531 in 1959, with some modest success.
In 1958 an up-and coming young racer in C-Types, Tom Groskritz, bought the car and took it on outings
through 1964 throughout the western United States. Years later, in 1979, Tom entered his partially restored XKD531 in vintage sports car races. He returned the car to his Costa Mesa garage to continue his restoration efforts until his death in 2021.
Grozkritz had willed the XKD531 to classic car collector and enthusiast Bill Rooklidge, who then undertook a comprehensive and faithful restoration of the D-Type.
Rooklidge completed his meticulous restoration in 2024 and the Jaguar XKD531 amassed a slew of awards. It’s easy to see why: Bill’s magnificently presented Cat is among the most beautiful of all restored classic competition cars in the world. ▪
HOT CAT: Jack Douglas raced his 54 Jaguar D-Type XKD531 with some success in the mid-1950s. Most recently the car was meticulously restored by collector Bill Rooklidge.
SCREENWRITER JACK DOUGLAS, LIKE HOLLYWOOD STARS SUCH AS PETER SELLERS, HARRISON FORD, BRAD PITT AND STEVE MCQUEEN, WAS CRAZY ABOUT RACING.”
100Years of Perfection
THIS YEAR ROLLS-ROYCE MARKS THE CENTENARY OF THE LAUNCH OF THE FIRST PHANTOM LIMOUSINE.
Throughout its long history, the Phantom nameplate has been reserved for Rolls-Royce’s pinnacle model – the apex of excellence.
Each iteration, up to and including the eighth generation now being handcrafted at the home of Rolls-Royce at Goodwood, has seen advances in design, engineering, materials and technology.
Today, Phantom is the ultimate blank canvas for Bespoke commissions, where clients can bring their most elaborate, imaginative and personal visions to life. Phantom’s scale, elegance, presence and adaptability enable it to be whatever its owner wishes it to be. Recent inspirations include haute couture (Phantom Syntopia), famous films (Phantom Goldfinger), Chinese culture (Phantom Extended
‘Year of the Dragon’) and the marque’s own Spirit of Ecstasy Mascot (Phantom Scintilla).
Phantom has always had the same fundamental aim: to provide the most magnificent, desirable and, above all, effortless motor car in the world, maintaining that reputation through a century of constant, often profound, change.
Says Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO Chris Brownridge: “In many respects, the history of Phantom is the history of Rolls-Royce: always moving with the times and its clients’ needs and requirements, transcending fleeting trends and providing the setting for the most remarkable executions of craft and artistry, all while resolutely refusing to compromise its core engineering and design principles. We’re proud to continue this tradition of excellence, elegance and serenity into the next 100 years.” ▪
PHANTOM HAS ALWAYS HAD THE SAME FUNDAMENTAL AIM: TO PROVIDE THE MOST MAGNIFICENT, DESIRABLE AND, ABOVE ALL, EFFORTLESS MOTOR CAR IN THE WORLD, MAINTAINING THAT REPUTATION THROUGH A CENTURY OF CONSTANT, OFTEN PROFOUND, CHANGE.”
Boutique Luxury in Queenstown
Perched above Queenstown with sweeping views of Lake Whakatipu and the surrounding mountains, Hulbert House is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience steeped in elegance and history. A beautifully restored 1888 Victorian villa, this boutique hotel offers an intimate and tranquil escape, where each of the six individually styled suites and one Queen studio, invites guests into a world of timeless charm.
The warmth of the team, combined with thoughtful touches such as nightly turn-down service, indulgent breakfasts, Bath Butler experience, and curated local recommendations, creates a stay that feels personal and utterly luxurious. Whether you’re nestled by the fireplace in the inviting Palm Lounge or relaxing on the veranda taking in the memorable landscape, Hulbert House offers an oasis of calm just moments from the vibrant heart of Queenstown.
Perfect for romantic getaways or those seeking a retreat from the everyday, Hulbert House seamlessly blends sophistication with heartfelt hospitality, making it one of the most dreamy places to stay in New Zealand. Here, every detail is designed to make you feel at home, while the setting ensures you never want to leave.
hulberthouse.co.nz
1OO WAYS TO CRUISE
FAR FROM BEING ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL, CRUISING OFFERS MORE VARIETY THAN ANY OTHER TYPE OF TRAVEL, ACCORDING TO INDUSTRY EXPERT JOE O’SULLIVAN OF CRUISE WORLD, AND THE HORIZON IS ALWAYS EXPANDING.
LUXURY IS CHOICE
“You might think you know cruising. It’s an assumption people often make,” says O’Sullivan. “Maybe you haven’t done any cruising at all, or maybe you have done a cruise but you’ve made up your mind about what cruising is. That’s like saying you know all that New Zealand has to offer because you’ve been to Auckland. There is huge diversity in cruising, that’s why it’s essential for all travellers to take another look at cruising.”
THERE IS A MISCONCEPTION THAT CRUISING IS AN EXPENSIVE WAY TO TRAVEL. HOWEVER, IT IS UNQUESTIONABLY THE BEST VALUE FOR MONEY OF ANY TRAVEL STYLE.”
After three decades in the business, he says there is now more choice than ever before. There is no shortage of completely new experiences, cruising is constantly evolving and innovating. “There’s always a new ship, another destination, another itinerary to experience, another cultural adventure or intrepid expedition that’s off the beaten path.”
Savvy travellers agree. 2024 was the cruise industry’s biggest year in history and this year will surpass that again. “Cruise lines continue to spend billions of dollars building new ships – 55 on order at present – because more and more people want to cruise. It’s a hugely popular way of travelling because it provides outstanding experiences and is the best value for money in the travel industry.”
There are infinite ways to travel by sea. With so many destinations and itineraries, a constantly
growing network of new ports, and over 90 different cruise lines with ships that hold anywhere from 12 passengers up to 6,000, it can feel overwhelming trying to make the right choice. That’s why O’Sullivan recommends talking to an expert rather than relying on a website to choose the right cruise for you.
“Travel means something different to each person. That’s why finding the right voyage is so important. Cruising isn’t one-size-fits-all, there is so much to choose from, ship size, style, region, itinerary, expedition, ultra-luxury, affordability the list goes on” says O’Sullivan.
O’Sullivan has just returned from Costa Rica and Panama. “My 18-year-old son and I shared this incredible journey on a luxury Windjammer sailing ship, exploring the Costa Rican coast and the Panama Canal”. Travelling with just 80 other guests, O’Sullivan says that being under sail was a highlight of the voyage. “In no way was our comfort compromised, with Sea Cloud Spirit providing stunning accommodation, incredible food and some of the best service from a friendly and engaging crew, and a wonderful mix of fellow guests.
There is a misconception that cruising is an expensive way to travel. However, it is unquestionably the best value for money of any travel style. Of course, the fare range is wide. Whilst, you can cruise for as little as $100 per day, there are the top shelf options that are more expensive, and for good reason. The ultra-luxury lines such as Seabourn, Silversea and Regent have smaller guest numbers, more one to one service and more space per guest, and are predominately all inclusive. The key is, there is so much choice as far as what style suits you.
“Something quite new is expedition-style ships exploring mainstream destinations such as Northern Europe and the Mediterranean,” says O’Sullivan. This makes new ports available, especially those that are out of reach of the larger
Sea Cloud Spirit.
ships. By utilising onboard zodiacs, it is possible to access less touristy ports and turn these experiences into something authentic and special.
With Atlas Ocean Voyages for example, you can zip into a tiny Greek village to have a meal prepared by locals on their family’s centuries-old olive grove in the evening sun. The choice is yours. It is simply a matter of finding the voyage that goes where you wish to explore.
An increasing number of travellers want to voyage through the Arctic and Antarctica, which has seen huge growth in the number of purpose-built expedition ships. “While at one end of the market you have the largest ship in the world Icon of the Seas being launched, at the other you have myriad purposebuilt polar exploration vessels such as Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Navigator, Traveller and Voyager.” These stateof-the-art super yachts allow seamless travel in Arctic regions. Ponant’s Le Commandant-Charcot can switch to soundless electric battery as it pushes up against the ice, minimising disruption to wildlife such as polar
bears and humpback whales. “At only a few hundred kilometres from the north pole we were able to silently observe polar bear in their natural habitat only metres away, including a mother feeding her cub, all from the comfort of our luxurious ship.” Says O’Sullivan of his experiences in the Arctic.
O’Sullivan agrees that cruising isn’t the only way to travel. For him it’s an essential part of the mix. Many people include a cruise as part of a longer vacation, maybe a Mediterranean voyage with a villa stay in Tuscany, a bike tour or catching up with offspring on their OE.
“Cruising can be whatever you want it to be. Intimate sunset sailing into the tiniest port to share a meal with locals, lively midday cocktails while your grandchildren zoom down the onboard water slides, or meeting the gaze of a humpback whale as it slices through the water between your zodiac and the majestic icebergs of Antarctica. If you love to travel and experience our world, then there’s a cruise for you.” ▪
Joe O’Sullivan - Cruise World
BY UTILISING ONBOARD ZODIACS, IT IS POSSIBLE TO ACCESS LESS TOURISTY PORTS AND TURN THESE EXPERIENCES INTO SOMETHING AUTHENTIC AND SPECIAL.”
EXPERIENCE
3 Decades in the making
For over 30 years Cruise World have been curating amazing contemporary, luxury, expedition and boutique small ship experiences to exotic destinations around the globe. Let us chart a course to your next travel adventure. With our experienced team, you’re in safe hands.
PERSONAL
It’s Personal, because how You travel matters
We enjoy promoting our wonderful products but more importantly we love finding you the experience that suits you best. Our personal touch ensures we deliver on our motto ‘right guest, right voyage’.
PASSIONATE
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Cruise World travels the world in search of the best products available and our team are here to help navigate a world of experiences. Let our passion fuel your excitement.
BY DESIGN
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You deserve to enjoy your entire travel experience, right from the booking and planning through to your departure date. Travel is one of life’s great adventures and we believe the lead up to and anticipation of your holiday should almost be as much fun as the holiday itself.
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Inclusive Luxury
"NOBODY
DOES IT BETTER – UNRIVALLED AT SEA THE MOST INCLUSIVE LUXURY EXPERIENCE".
WORLD CHECKS OUT REGENT SEVEN SEAS’ PUBLICITY CLAIMS ON A 12-NIGHT CRUISE FROM ATHENS TO LISBON.
CLICKTOWA
From the moment Regent’s chauffeur-driven Mercedes E300 limousine deposits us dockside at Piraeus (Athens) where Seven Seas Splendor awaits, we are transported to a new level of luxury experience. BUT will Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ PR claims deliver on all fronts?
The embarkation process is a dream: the reception desk is a mere 10 paces from our arrival point. Porters take our bags, which will appear, as if by magic, in our suite. The entire process is seamless. Check-in is completed dockside and takes less than five minutes. Airlines would do well to take note.
We love the new-look ship safety presentation, which could be studied at home in video form pre-embarkation and viewed at follow-up screenings on board.
We also love the more relaxed dress codes: no more jackets for men at dinner; a collared shirt becomes the norm, although there’s no denim after 6 pm. Dress code for the entire voyage is elegant casual, and for us, even more good news: formal nights are now confined to cruises of 16 nights or more. One huge plus with a cruise holiday is that you unpack once and don’t touch a bag until your cruise has ended.
We are now in holiday mode. Suddenly, New Zealand seems a distant memory.
Our Concierge Suite 1215 is ideally located mid-ship on the top deck – guaranteeing super-smooth sailing – and is beside the entrance to the sports deck, which we consider a lovely extension to our suite for morning walks, a spot of golf or tennis.
Furnished in natural colours, our suite contains a super-comfy king-size bed with plush cashmere blankets, and horizon view. Privacy curtains cordon off a generous lounge area, which in turn leads onto a furnished outside balcony (where we can enjoy in-suite breakfast, if we like).
The spacious bathroom boasts a bath, shower, twin hand basins and luxurious l’Occitane toiletries. Superb fluffy towels are refreshed daily, and valet laundry – wash, press and fold – is included. Full-size bottles of our chosen drinks – Grey Goose vodka and Wild Turkey bourbon – are generously provided and an ice bucket is delivered each afternoon at 5pm for pre-dinner drinks with optional canapés. One evening a fun ‘hall party’ is organised to meet our immediate neighbours.
One of the first things we like to do on Day One of any cruise is to walk the ship – every deck of it: in Seven Seas Splendor’s case, all 12 of them. It’s important to discover what’s available to you.
We are soon relaxing poolside and get to experience very special service from the waitstaff: name your favourite tipple and sit back for instant service – which even includes cleaning your reading or sunglasses. How cool is that? It also gives us a chance to study the destinations that lie ahead in Greece, Turkey, Italy, France, Spain and Portugal. We note two sea days, which we’ve come to value from previous cruises, as life on board has so much on offer you need a little time out to recharge your batteries.
FROM TOP
CLOCKWISE
LEFT: Sun loungers on the Pool Deck; Concierge Suite; Seven Seas Splendor at sea; poolside, the perfect place to blob out.
EXCURSIONS
The Mediterranean is the ultimate cruise destination, especially for first-time cruisers, with a plethora of exciting ports to discover. Regent cruises are unique in making some 40-odd excursions inclusive on all their ships, so there's no nasty exorbitant bill to pay at the end. We choose not to revisit places we already know and to avoid tourist hot-spots such as Rome, opting for more leisurely options.
In Sicily, we fall in love with picturesque Taormina, perched on a high cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea. We
wander its narrow streets edged with antique shops, appealing restaurants, intimate bars and myriad churches, and can appreciate why it’s been chosen as a recent location for Netflix’s highly successful White Lotus series. With impressive views through to Mount Etna, one of Europe’s most active volcanoes, the city’s crowning glory is the third-century BC Greek theatre, which still hosts operas and live theatre.
On mainland Italy, we join a half-day leisurely tour of Sorrento, where we are seduced by the quality boutiques
OPPOSITE AND BELOW: Taormina, Sicily, is famous for its ancient Greek theatre (PHOTO: Gettyimages); street scenes along the journey.
‘‘
REGENT CRUISES ARE UNIQUE IN MAKING SOME 40-ODD EXCURSIONS INCLUSIVE ON ALL THEIR SHIPS, SO THERE'S NO NASTY BILL TO PAY AT THE END.”
(and limoncello to die for). In Barcelona, Regent’s superb selection of mostly complimentary shore excursions includes visits to Antonio Gaudi’s controversial basilica, the Sagrada Familia, a paella cooking experience and a gastronomy tour with tapas lunch. All pretty tempting, but we opt instead to take the ship’s shuttle to the port entrance for a gentle stroll to the city centre. There, we meander along the famous pedestrian-only boulevard, La Rambla, and get lost in La Boqueria, the bustling fresh produce market.
Barcelona's 14th-century cathedral in Pla de la Seu is among the many fascinating heritage sites to explore on a voyage from Athens to Lisbon.
DRINKS FOOD
On Splendor there are four main restaurants, plus a café, the Coffee Connection, and Pool Grill for lunch options. We try all restaurant locations and enjoy each experience. Top of our list is the Sunday Brunch on the first sea day in Compass Rose restaurant. Executive chef John Pugh and his team put on a visual feast of the finest food. You need a couple of hours to do justice to this outstanding extravaganza. Our next two favourite eateries are Prime 7 and Chartreuse – with Pacific Rim and Compass Rose very close behind.
Prime 7 has the jumbo shrimp cocktail – poached and chilled shrimps with citrus cocktail sauce – and the 32oz porterhouse steak for two. Both dishes are exceptional.
Showstopper at Chartreuse is the seared Barbary duck breast with glazed turnips, candied morello cherries and sour cherry mustard, with crispy apple tart and vanilla ice cream to follow: what a combination! You can check out all the ship’s menus on their website beforehand. Trust me, read them and you will be booking your cruise. For some reason, I’m sure food tastes better at sea.
The bar staff at all six locations really know their craft. Cocktails are the choice of many fellow cruisers, especially poolside, and The Pool Bar soon becomes our favourite.
I must confess to trying two new cocktails: a classic apple martini created at Lola’s bar in West Hollywood; and a tiramisu martini – like the classic Italian dessert, but in a glass. It’s pure joy, comprising vanilla vodka, white chocolate liqueur, Tia Maria, Amaretto, whipped cream and chocolate garnish topped with a sprinkle of cocoa powder. Dare you to stop at one.
A
the Sports Deck.
There is always something to do on Seven Seas Splendor I love the mini-golf set up aft on the sports deck, with its ocean backdrop. Feeling energetic? Head for the fitness centre. And if it’s a little relaxation you’re after, then the Serene spa and wellness centre is the place to go.
But where we like to spend most time at is the Pool Deck on level 11, with the Pool Grill at one end, heated pool and Jacuzzis in the middle and Pool Bar on one side.
And at night, we like to take in a show. Our favourites were the 'Best of Abba Dance Party' – who said cruisers can’t dance? And 'Just John and Paul' (everyone loves the Beatles magic).
‘‘
WE LOVE CRUISE DIRECTOR CALLIE SMIT’S ADVICE ON LIFE: INVEST IN MEMORIES.”
relaxing soak or a spot of mini-golf, paddle tennis or shuffleboard? Make for
FROM
THE STAFF
The crew on board are exceptional and cannot do enough for us. We are chuffed to learn the live-wire social hostess onboard is a New Zealander from Wellington. Olivia McCarthy joined Regent as a dancer when just 17 and seems on a fast track to becoming cruise director. English-born executive chef John Pugh lived in New Zealand for two years and says he loves the place. Our favourite waitress is Ashwini, whom we nickname “the cheeky one” who so enjoys her role, and we love cruise director Callie Smit’s advice on life: “Invest in memories.”
Our 12 days on Seven Seas Splendor seem to rush by so quickly we wish we had booked a back-to-back cruise heading for Cape Town. What an adventure that would have been!
So, is Regent Seven Seas really "THE MOST INCLUSIVE LUXURY EXPERIENCE"?
We say, “Yes indeed!” ▪
www.rssc.com
CLOCKWISE
BELOW LEFT: Shows take place in the ship's elegant theatre; Kiwi social hostess Olivia McCarthy; our favourite waitress, Ashwini.
LISBON
(CÁDIZ)
CRUISING
SOLAR ECLIPSE AT SEA
In July 2026, passengers aboard Oceania’s newly refurbished Marina on the 14-day ‘Eclipse in Iceland’ voyage from Copenhagen to Reykjavik will sail into the path of totality near Grundafjordur. From this unique position at sea – cocktail in hand at an onboard viewing party or from the privacy of an elegant stateroom balcony – day will momentarily become twilight, as an ethereal glow is cast across the ship’s decks.
In the lead-up to, during and after this celestial masterpiece, guests can enjoy the world-renowned ‘Finest Cuisine at Sea’ for which Oceania is famous. Aboard Marina, the dining options range from wellness-inspired menus at Aquamar or the alfresco Pizzeria and poolside ice cream parlour, to the finest silver service at specialty restaurants such as The Grand Dining Room or Polo Grill. In addition, Oceania Cruises’ signature pairing dinners featured in La Reserve will now be showcased in an exclusive private dining venue, Privée.
For passengers with a passion for cooking, Oceania’s
Culinary Discovery Tours teach destination-inspired dishes after a morning of shopping for ingredients in local markets, and there’s a range of new onboard Culinary Classes for 2025. Down Under Abundance celebrates the sea, mountains, and vineyards of New Zealand and Australia. South Seas Salt Life serves up Tama’a Maitai – traditional Polynesian cuisine. Culinary Northwest Passage is a celebration of the farmer and the fisherman, inspired by innovative chefs from Seattle to Anchorage. Designed by foodies, for foodies, Oceania has a higher percentage of chefs per passenger than any other cruise line. ▪
SHIP WITHIN A SHIP
ITALIAN CRUISE LINE MSC CRUISES OFFERS MYRIAD TRAVEL EXPERIENCES, AND THEIR YACHT CLUB SHIP-WITHIN-A-SHIP CONCEPT IS MAKING WAVES WITH DISCERNING TRAVELLERS.
MSC Yacht Club promises elegant, spacious suites, exclusive keycard-only access to an array of private facilities and a 24hour butler. Every detail is flawlessly arranged, with dedicated check-in and welcome Champagne, unpacking and packing services, priority embarkation and disembarkation at every port, along with customised offshore experiences with private guides and transportation.
Guests have exclusive access to the Top Sail Lounge, with breathtaking views, complimentary bar and
exceptional food. MSC Yacht Club Restaurant serves dishes inspired by the local region and a sommelier to pair wines with each dish. Passengers travelling with children have access to a family friendly area, and their butler can accompany children to and from wherever their parents are, for a seamless experience that caters to the whole family.
For a truly luxurious voyage, the Royal Duplex Suite accommodates up to six guests with two separate bedrooms, an expansive living area and elegant spiral staircase to access the upper-level master bedroom.
Sunset cocktails in a private Jamaican cabana, antipasti overlooking the Bay of Poets in the Cinque Terra, whale-spotting in the Norwegian fjords… And in keeping with the exclusive nature of MSC Yacht Club, guests also have access to special shore excursions, such as fragrance creation at one of the oldest parfumeries in the South of France, an authentic Greek meal aboard a private catamaran in Santorini or a day snorkelling the Colombia Reef in Mexico.
MSC Cruises is also the title sponsor of three Formula 1 World Championship Grand Prix races in 2025 and offer a range of special itineraries for F1 fans as part of this ongoing global partnership. ▪
Step into a World of Exclusive Luxury with MSC Yacht Club
Discover unparalleled luxury with MSC Yacht Club - your private sanctuary at sea. Enjoy 24/7 butler service, a dedicated concierge, gourmet dining, and an exclusive sundeck with a private pool and whirlpools. Relax in elegant suites, sip cocktails with ocean views in the Top Sail Lounge, and enjoy priority embarkation and disembarkation at every port. Sail through the Mediterranean and Caribbean in ultimate comfort, where privacy meets personalised service for an unforgettable journey.
(Portofino)
WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
MSC WORLD EUROPA
05 June 2026
8 Days / 7 Nights
Embarking from Barcelona
Sailing weekly throughout 2026
Flexible embarkation options available
EARLY BOOKING
(Taormina)
MSC YACHT CLUB
DELUXE SUITE Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Naples, Messina, Valletta, Barcelona
CARIBBEAN & ANTILLES MSC WORLD AMERICA
22 August 2026
8 Days / 7 Nights
Embarking from Miami
Sailing fortnightly throughout 2026 in the Eastern Caribbean
EARLY BOOKING
MSC YACHT CLUB
DELUXE SUITE Miami, Puerto Plata, San Juan, Ocean Cay, Miami
LUXURY AFLOAT
EVERY
ALL-INCLUSIVE VOYAGE ABOARD AN EXPLORA SHIP IS CAREFULLY CURATED TO EASE PASSENGERS INTO THE LINE’S SIGNATURE ‘OCEAN STATE OF MIND’.
Sweeping sea views and secluded terraces turn every oceanfront suite, penthouse and residence into a spacious home away from home that feels like being on your own private superyacht.
European luxury is evident in every detail of the ship’s shared spaces, encompassing vibrant restaurants, onboard art galleries, culinary schools and sun-drenched poolside cabanas. With a seafaring history that stretches back over 300 years, ocean sustainability is essential to Explora Journeys and each Explora ship is fitted with cutting-edge environmental marine technology to reduce emissions and underwater noise.
The first two luxury ships, EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, are
GUESTS CAN ENJOY IMMERSIVE ONBOARD DINING EXPERIENCES BETWEEN PORTS, INCLUDING A SAKE SOMMELIER AND PAN-ASIAN CUISINE AT SAKURA, FRENCH FLAIR AT FIL ROUGE, AND SOPHISTICATED MEDITERRANEAN TASTES AT MED YACHT CLUB”
now sailing, and EXPLORA III will join the fleet in August 2026. Guests can enjoy immersive onboard dining experiences between ports, including a sake sommelier and Pan-Asian cuisine at Sakura, French flair at Fil Rouge, and sophisticated Mediterranean tastes at Med Yacht
Club, whilst the food at cooking stations at Emporium Marketplace evolve throughout the day.
EXPLORA III will take guests on scenic journeys from the cinematic glamour of Los Angeles and vibrant colours of Puerto Rico through to the magical landscapes of Iceland and Greenland. Overnight stays while in port and thoughtfully designed shore visits allow guests time to fully immerse themselves in the local culture for experiences that go far beyond the everyday.
EXPLORA II will be the only luxury ship docked in the heart of Monaco’s famous Port Hercule for the Formula One Grand Prix, offering passengers a prime position during the star-studded race weekend. ▪
SAIL UNIQUE
Immerse yourself in Explora Journeys, the newest and most stylish European luxury lifestyle brand that is redefining ocean travel for the ultimate ocean experience.
Designed to feel like your own private yacht, Explora Journeys offers guests unparalleled comfort and space, on a collection of journeys that offer the perfect blend of celebrated destinations and less-travelled spots in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, both seen from new and original points of view that will inspire and excite in equal measure.
With nine unforgettable inclusive culinary experiences, and ocean-inspired wellness, guests will travel to enriching lesser-travelled destinations in effortless European style as they discover the Ocean State of Mind.
Experience EXPLORA I or EXPLORA II now sailing, or EXPLORA III, launching in 2026, on a collection of journeys throughout Northern Europe, Iceland & Greenland, the Mediterranean, North America East and Pacific Coast, Caribbean, Central & South America, Red Sea & Arabian Peninsula.
FEATURED JOURNEYS
An Extended Journey of Adriatic Sunsets and Eternal Isles
All journeys include access to sophisticated, varied experiences across 18 food and beverage venues, including six restaurants, five lounges and in-suite dining; unlimited beverages, fine wines, premium spirits; a welcome bottle of champagne; access to the spa thermal area; complimentary hi-speed Wi-Fi; on board gratuities and more.* Terms & Conditions
LEFKADA, GREECE
STORYBOOK ADVENTURES
ENDLESS SUNBAKED HORIZONS,
VIBRANT
CULTURES,
ANCIENT WONDERS AND RARE WILDLIFE AWAIT PASSENGERS AS THEY CRUISE THE WORLD’S ICONIC RIVERS WITH AMAWATERWAYS.
Cruising Africa’s mighty rivers might include everything from the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, known by locals as Mosi-oa-Tunya (‘The Smoke that Thunders’), to the grassy plains of the Serengeti and Cape Town’s dramatic coastal vistas; no other destination offers up a more varied itinerary.
Elephants and giraffes roam free among the Ngorongoro Conservation Area; mighty hippos frolic in the Chobe River; and guests have the option to add a Rwanda extension, taking in the spellbinding Volcanoes National Park, with its flourishing population of rare mountain gorillas.
Egypt, meanwhile, is home to the some of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World: the Great Sphinx and the three Pyramids of Giza. AmaWaterways offers an unforgettable 11-night Nile River cruise and land experience – including a private lunch at the Abdeen Presidential Palace – that brings guests face-to-face with the country’s remarkable hidden jewels.
AmaWaterways is the first major cruise line to explore the magnificent Magdalena River in Colombia, a destination bursting with colour and vibrant South American culture, known as the ‘Land of a Thousand Rhythms’ because of the diversity of its music.
AmaWaterways has two new river ships launching in 2026. AmaKaia will take passengers off the beaten track to explore the ancient cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia. AmaSofia will follow the route of emperors, kings and queens, taking in palaces and castles, sundrenched vineyards and picturesque villages as it cruises the Danube and Rhine rivers. Passengers can sip mulled wine and wander the stalls of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets, illuminated by thousands of glittering lights as they drift from Budapest to Vilshofen in December on the ultimate storybook cruise. ▪
The Unparalleled River Cruise Experience
With the guest at the heart of our operations for over 20 years, AmaWaterways offers unparalleled river cruise experiences on some of the world’s most stunning rivers in Europe, Asia, Egypt, Africa and now in South America.
Family owned and operated by pioneering river cruise professionals, AmaWaterways is renowned for its warm and welcoming crew; innovative and sustainable ship design; modern and spacious ships and amenities; wellness activities (including a wide choice of included small group shore excursions featuring biking and hiking options); and award-winning, locally sourced cuisine paired with complimentary fine wine.
C’EST LA VIE – AT SEA
REFINED FRENCH LUXURY, A DEDICATION TO UNFORGETTABLE TRAVEL AND CULTURAL ENRICHMENT UNDERLINES EVERY CRUISE UNDER THE RED, WHITE AND BLUE PONANT FLAG.
The small capacity of its sleek cruise ships allows Ponant to dock in private ports and stop in locations that other ships cannot reach. The iconic three-masted Le Ponant has just 16 staterooms for a cruising experience that feels more like chartering on your own superyacht.
Ponant’s innovative ships combine modern comforts with understated luxury at the absolute cutting edge of marine technology. Le Commandant Charcot is the first electric-hybrid polar expedition vessel and the world's only luxury icebreaker powered by liquefied natural gas. This not only makes it possible to reach previously inaccessible sights such as the unexplored sea ice of Northeast Greenland but, by switching to virtually soundless electric battery as needed, minimises disruption to rare wildlife such as polar bears and humpback whales.
Ponant offer a range of luxury expeditions, from
the majestic polar landscapes of Antarctica and the Arctic’s Northern Lights, to the ancient sun-baked monuments of Turkey and the Greek Isles, island-hopping between azure secret Mediterranean bays or discovering the tropical wonders of Indonesia and beyond.
In August 2026, passengers aboard Le Dumont D’Urville will experience a total solar eclipse over the water in Palma de Mallorca before continuing along the coast to Nice, France.
A unique alliance between Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys, the travel programme of the Smithsonian Institution, offers curated itineraries that immerse guests deep into the cultures of chosen destinations. These special voyages include onboard talks with world-class experts and a shore excursion in each port of call to cultivate a holistic and sensorial connection with the local environment. ▪
Spectacular waterfalls, ancient rock art, breathtaking whale watching, and expert-led mangrove Zodiac safaris await as you explore Australia’s Kimberley region, one of the last true wildness frontiers.
PONANT’s signature mix of luxury and adventure delivers a truly life-changing voyage, both aboard and ashore.
KIMBERLEY
Australia’s West Coast Odyssey
Fremantle to Broome | From $13,860pp
10 nights aboard Le Soléal
21 August 2025 & 29 July 2026 in Balcony Stateroom
Ask us about FREE Solo Supplement
Australia’s Iconic Kimberley
Broome to Darwin | From $12,870pp
10 nights aboard Le Soléal
16 departures in 2025 & 2026 in Balcony Stateroom
Ask us about FREE Solo Supplement
The Kimberley Coast; Raja Ampat & Spice Islands
Broome to Darwin | From $27,441pp
21 nights aboard Le Soléal Departs 31 August 2025
Vansittart
CONNOISSEUR EXPEDITIONS
ATLAS OCEAN VOYAGES SPECIALISES IN STYLISH SMALL-SHIP EXPEDITION CRUISING, FROM REMOTE POLAR REGIONS TO EUROPE AND SOUTH AMERICA.
Imagine waking up snug inside your tent after camping overnight amongst the soaring glacial cliffs of Antarctica. Sip your morning coffee in the company of rare wildlife. Paddle past electric-blue icebergs in a sea kayak and explore further in one of the ship’s purpose-built Zodiacs. Back onboard, spot passing whales from the comfort of a heated outdoor seat or immerse yourself in the icy waters with a polar plunge.
At the northern pole, intrepid travellers aboard an Atlas Polar Expedition, cruise the Arctic’s glacial frontiers in search of polar bears and beluga whales and sip cocktails under the Northern Lights.
Across the globe, Atlas Cultural Expeditions takes guests for Samba lessons in Rio de Janeiro or to a sunset party with local delicacies grilled over an open flame in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cidade Velha.
In Europe, Epicurean Expedition cruisers master the art of making Basque tapas after a day wandering the old town of Bilbao, or hunt for truffles in the Tuscan countryside before pairing them with wines for a farmto-table meal.
Every intimate yacht-style expedition carries no more than 200 passengers at a time, traversing remote destinations and navigating narrow waterways such as the Corinth Canal in Greece and Guadalquivir River in Spain. Cutting-edge hydro-jet propulsion technology
‘‘
EVERY INTIMATE YACHT-STYLE EXPEDITION CARRIES NO MORE THAN 200 PASSENGERS AT A TIME, TRAVERSING REMOTE DESTINATIONS AND NAVIGATING NARROW WATERWAYS.”
allows the ships to operate almost silently and minimise impact on the fragile ocean eco-system.
Now available on Polar Expeditions to Antarctica and the High Arctic is an exclusive Omakase-style dining experience called ‘The Explorer’s Table’. Prepared for just 10 guests, the multi-course tasting menu serves up a fusion of flavours in a culinary journey of its own amid the glaciers and icebergs. ▪
Wandering The Med & Northern Europe
Epicurean and Cultural Expeditions
Epicurean Expeditions illuminate the Mediterranean’s diverse cultures through the lens of food and wine with exclusive wine and food immersions shoreside, and interactive culinary events onboard. Cultural Expeditions are designed for fans of art, architecture, history, museums, and deep immersion into vibrant cultures of the destination. Explore hidden coves of the Greek Isles, call on yachtfilled harbours of the French and Italian Rivieras, and sail into the heart of historic cities. Excursions ashore immerse you in history, art and natural beauty while offering unique opportunities to explore the local culinary and wine scenes.
The intimate and immersive yachting expeditions of Atlas Ocean Voyages are the ultimate way to experience the world in relaxed luxury, with fewer than 200 fellow guests. The elegant 3-ship fleet are custom-designed, stylish, spacious, all-inclusive onboard, with beautifully designed public areas, well-appointed modern suites and staterooms, and personal service by crew well attuned to providing the highest levels of service.
ALWAYS INCLUDED
• FREE cultural immersion
• FREE gourmet dining with ever-changing menus
• FREE unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
• FREE open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapés
• FREE stocked in-room minibar
• FREE specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
• FREE afternoon and high tea
• FREE champagne and gourmet canapés during meet and greet
• FREE 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
• FREE L’OCCITANE bath amenities
• FREE pre-paid gratuities
• FREE use of walking sticks and binoculars
• FREE reusable water bottle
• FREE butler service and expanded room service menu in suites
Trip delay and medical evacuation coverage included at no additional cost
Cultural Expedition Folklore & Waterfalls
Reykjavik to Dublin 7 nights, 29 Aug 2025 World Voyager™
Included: Cultural Expedition Highlights: Cultural immersion Excursion * enrichment programs and workshops on select expeditions * authentic local experiences and onboard events * Josper Grill Dining Experience onboard * Backpack
Epicurean & Cultural Expedition European Medley
Amsterdam to Lisbon 20 nights, 01 Oct 2025 World Voyager™
Included: Epicurean Expedition Highlights: Cultural immersion culinary experience ashore * Josper Grill Dining Experience onboard * Culinary presentations and wine tastings * Cooking demonstrations and cuisine tastings * Hosted events by Tastes & Traditions Expert * Backpack
SUMPTUOUS SEABOURN
IMAGINE
EXPLORING THE EXOTIC, LESS-TRAVELLED WONDERS OF THE WORLD ABOARD A PURPOSE-BUILT, ULTRA-LUXURY EXPEDITION SHIP.
Your every comfort is taken care of as you venture deep into the azure waters and charming villages of the Mediterranean, the vibrant settlements of the Amazon or the pristine majesty of Antarctica. Seabourn operates a fleet of six modern ships that define luxury ocean and expedition travel, taking passengers on magical journeys into the heart of each destination.
Seabourn sails intrepid explorers into the isolated depths of Antarctica, led by a veteran expedition team of scientists, naturalists and academics. Passengers can venture even closer to experience the blue icebergs on a scenic Zodiac or kayaking excursion, hike across seldomseen landscapes in search of wildlife or sink below the inky depths in a submarine.
“I cruised to Antarctica onboard Seabourn Pursuit and this exceptional travel experience is like being in your own documentary,” says Cherryl Browne, general
manager of Cruise World. “An expedition cruise means the remote parts of the world like Antarctica become very accessible.”
Across the ocean, travellers can penetrate deep into the Amazon on a safari at sea, with intimate access to parts of the river that are rarely seen by the outside world.
From the slow, winding waters of the seasonally flooded igapó forest, past picturesque floating houses in Leticia to fascinating jungle-bound Iquitos, the largest city in the world that cannot be reached by road.
Seabourn also offer their signature intimate, yachtlike atmosphere for enchanting voyages that turn the sundrenched coastlines of the Mediterranean and Iberian Peninsula into a private playground. In 2026, Seabourn Venture will stop at the picturesque ports of St. Malo and Dunkirk in France before sailing upriver to Spain’s historic city of Seville. ▪
A Seabourn cruise or expedition is unlike any other form of travel. Enjoy the incomparable value of all-inclusive ultra-luxury cruising. Cruise aboard intimate ships with a private, yacht-like atmosphere, pampered by intuitive, personalised service. Explore all seven continents, savour world class gourmet dining, and complimentary premium wines and spirits. Enjoy refined cruising, curated itine raries to places beyond the reach of larger ships. Share unforgettable moments with interesting and like-minded people who enjoy travelling well.
THE SEABOURN DIFFERENCE
• Seabourn’s All-Inclusive Difference:
• Intimate ships with a private yacht-like atmosphere
• All luxury ocean-front suites, most with a private veranda
• Intuitive, personalized service
• Complimentary premium spirits and fine wines
• Complimentary caviar, an extra indulgence
• World-class dining and culinary experiences
• All dining venues are complimentary - dine where, when and with whom you wish
• Welcome Champagne and complimentary in-suite bar
• Tipping is neither required, nor expected
• Seabourn Conversations - connecting with visionary experts
• Ventures by Seabourn® optional shore excursions ^**
• Complimentary entertainment experiences
• Complimentary SpaceX’s Starlink Wi-Fi packages
• Complimentary Signature Events
** In select destination and additional charge. ^Available on Seabourn Sojourn, Seabourn Quest, Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Ovation
Nor wegian Fjords & Icelandic Intrigue
Dover to Dover
Seabourn Ovation
28 days, 16 May 2026
From A$37,699* pp share twin V3 Veranda suite
Follow the sun northward to lands of the Vikings, fairytale castles, majestic fjords, picturesque coastal villages, iconic museums and untouched islands teeming with seabirds.
Italy, Dalmatia & Eastern Med Delights
Monte Carlo to Istanbul
Seabourn Quest
24 days, 04 June 2026
From A$25,099* pp share twin V3 Veranda suite
Wake up to breathtaking views of azure waters and historic coastlines. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Mediterranean culture with curated shore excursions to ancient landmarks and charming villages.
From the Caribbean to Antarctica
Bridgetown to Ushuaia
Seabourn Ovation
37 days, 13 October 2026
From A$68,739* pp share twin V4 Veranda suite
Sail the crystal blue Caribbean waters from Barbados, and traverse South America’s eastern coast to fascinating ports, enroute to the magic of Antarctica. Three destinations to touch your curiosity and heart.
Tauck's handpicked journeys, across all seven continents, appeal to those seeking time, freedom, and flexibility to immerse themselves into the places they visit.
THE RIPPLE EFFECT
A SINGLE MEANINGFUL TRAVEL EXPERIENCE HAS THE POTENTIAL TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE, ENRICHING YOUR FUTURE WITH A SENSE OF JOYFUL CURIOSITY ABOUT THE WORLD’S FAR-FLUNG CORNERS.
It is this dedication to profound guided travel experiences that sees Tauck celebrating 100 years in the business with an ever-growing focus on exceptional small-group voyages. With more than 170 handpicked journeys across all seven continents, ranging in size from 44 guests down to just 15, Tauck thrills travellers seeking time, freedom, and flexibility to immerse themselves deep into the places they visit.
On its river cruises, by intentionally accommodating fewer guests than other lines, Tauck can also offer roomier cabins, less crowded shared spaces and an intimate onboard ambiance.
Two new riverboats join Tauck’s award-winning fleet in early 2026, with sailing itineraries along the Rhone and the River Seine. At 180 square feet (17 sq m), the Category 1 cabins on both new builds will be significantly larger than those on Tauck's other riverboats and, in keeping with Tauck's tradition of welcoming solo travellers, will have the single supplement waived on every sailing.
Tauck is world-renowned for its European river cruises, but a spectacular offering in 2025 is the 12-day ‘Wildlife Odyssey’ journey to South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. This once-in-a-lifetime trip includes a private visit with an elephant family at a sanctuary near thundering Victoria Falls, morning and afternoon game drives in Kruger National Park to spot the ‘Big Five’, a private motorboat safari on the Zambezi river, and a helicopter excursion to experience the art, culture and cuisine of Cape Town. The world will never feel the same! ▪
A SPECTACULAR OFFERING IN 2025 IS THE 12-DAY ‘WILDLIFE ODYSSEY’ JOURNEY TO SOUTH AFRICA, BOTSWANA AND ZIMBABWE.”
TRAVEL BEYOND ORDINARY
Tauck is a family-owned travel company enjoying their 100th year anniversary this year in 2025. Tauck’s values and vision remain true: Always do the right thing. Deliver more than what’s expected. With journeys across 7 continents, in over 100 destinations and to 70+ countries, Tauck keeps moving forward to find new ways to enhance travel experiences that will be memorable for a lifetime. For 26 consecutive years, Tauck has earned the trust and the satisfaction of their guests, to be named in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best” list.
THE TAUCK DIFFERENCE
UNIQUE, EXCLUSIVE ACCESS
It’s not just about the places you visit – it’s how you experience them. * Tauck Exclusive events and excursions * Special access at times of day when the crowds have gone * Behind the scenes * See the world differently than you could on your own.
CLOSER CONNECTIONS
Meet locals with destination and cultural insights * Secrets of nature * Stories of the past defining the present * Unique and special skills * Enriching and everlasting * Personal encounters and unexpected moments.
GUIDED BY THE BEST
Personal, caring service is the hallmark of Tauck Directors and handpicked local guides * Expertise in local culture, customs, and traditions * Experience the world in ways you couldn’t experience on your own.
TRAVEL CONFIDENTLY
Travel with peace of mind * Tauck takes care of the details * Relationships with destination and travel partners worldwide – 100 years in the making! * Built-in support systems worldwide & Tauck Global Response Teams * Managing the unexpected – big and small.
NAMIBIA, AFRICA – SMALL GROUP TOUR
An Epic Safari
12 days l Apr – Oct 2026
Windhoek to Windhoek
Incredible accommodation experiences - Kwessi Dunes in the heart of the private NamibRand Nature Reserve - 12 air-conditioned thatched chalets on raised platforms; Hoanib Valley Exploration Camp - six elegantly designed tents in the rugged mountain landscape, overlooking the Hoanib River with unparalleled viewing of resident elephants, giraffes, oryx, and springbok right from your tent; Ongava Lodge Etosha - nestled on a hillside in the private Ongava Game Reserve and overlooking a well-frequented waterhole.
HIGHLIGHTS: : Bushman desert walk * Behind the scenes at a wildlife sanctuary * Meet the Himba tribe * See and learn about the thriving wildlife * Star gaze in NamibRand Nature Reserve * Flightsee over dunes of Sossusvlei * Kayaking or catamaran cruise * Learn about conservation efforts. Authentic small private lodges and luxury camps in the heart of the reserves.
MOROCCO, AFRICA – SMALL GROUP LAND TOUR
Magic of Morocco
10 days l Jan – Apr, Oct – Dec 2025 / 2026
Rabat to Marrakech
Experience mystical, mysterious, fascinating Morocco - ancient cities, medinas, kasbahs, and souks, windswept coastline and desert treasures, and journey through a timeless land with its mix of Arabic and European cultures.
HIGHLIGHTS: Labyrinthine medinas with spice bazaars, souks, and street food vendors * Boulevards lined with palm trees and French colonial architecture * Stunning palaces, mosques, and gardens * Lunch in Moulay Idriss near the ruins at Volubilis * Rick’s Cafe in Casablanca * Colourful leather tanneries of Fes * Choice of a cooking class, photography tour, or hammam spa treatment * Lecture on contemporary Morocco from the woman’s perspective.
EGYPT, AFRICA – SMALL GROUP CRUISE & LAND TOUR
Jewels of the Nile
10 days l Mar – May, Aug – Dec 2025 / 2026
Cairo to Cairo
Inspiring Egypt with ancient sites and treasures. Home to a storied legacy of history from the Neolithic Age in 6000 BC. A cradle of civilization, chronicled in temples, tombs and pyramids thousands of years old, in humble feluccas and river boats on the Nile.
HIGHLIGHTS : 4 night luxury Nile cruise with shore excursions in Aswan, Luxor, and Old Cairo TAUCK EXCLUSIVE: After hours vist to Valley of the Kings and Tutankhamun’s tomb * Great Pyramid of Giza, Luxor, Great Sphinx, Saint Simeon Monastery * Philae Temples on Agillika Island, Kom Ombo, and Edfu.
SHIPBOARD ROMANCE
NO WONDER THE WORLD CRUISE AWARDS NAMED SEADREAM I ‘BEST SMALL CRUISE SHIP FOR ROMANCE’. WHERE ELSE CAN YOU SLEEP UNDER THE STARS IN A BALINESE-STYLE BED?
WORDS: TRICIA WELSH.
We had boarded the luxury mega-yacht SeaDream I in Nice for a weeklong cruise along the Italian Riviera, destination Rome. We’ve booked early for our night under the stars as there is only one king-size bed set up forward on Deck 6, with four smaller beds lined up along each side towards the stern. The front bed is the prize location.
It is, of course, weather dependent, but it’s the perfect evening: a gentle breeze, no rain predicted and a forecast overnight temperature of 18C. As an added bonus, we wear PJs or lightweight tracksuits given to us earlier for comfort, which have our individual names embroidered on them.
Like bugs in a rug, we snuggle under the blankets – there’s even a faux fur bedcover for extra warmth. We don’t need rocking to sleep as the yacht sails further south around the Italian Riviera to the little harbour of Portoferraio on the island of Elba, where Napoleon was exiled twice in the early 1800s. We sleep beneath an inky, star-studded sky before watching dawn come up and we finally dock beneath the solid fortifications of the fortress built by Cosimo de Medici in 1548.
To say the people at the SeaDream Yacht Club think outside the square is an understatement. One warm day, as we sit around the pool, barman Andre does the rounds of sunbaking guests offering to clean their sunglasses. Richard follows him with a tray of ice-cream sandwiches.
“It’s the Rolls-Royce of cruising,” one happy cruiser confides. Another suggests it is the freedom you feel onboard: guests are never pressured to do anything or be anywhere at a certain time. Whatever it is, I’d happily stay aboard forever.
Although the ship can accommodate 112 passengers, we number just 84, with a crew of 96. Almost immediately, the crew know our names, our preferred beverages and make us feel like family.
Our Yacht Club Stateroom is spacious, with a large picture window, a privacy pull curtain between bedroom and comfortable lounge area with TV, a stocked mini-bar, and generous hanging space, with ample drawers for storage. The bathroom has multi-jet massage shower and luxurious Norwegian ELM bath amenities. Rooms and towels are refreshed twice daily by our obliging room butler, Marie, who also brings us a cup of English Breakfast tea each morning with the broadest smile.
The ship has a formal dining salon on Deck 2 that can accommodate all guests in one sitting, a most comfortable library with an excellent selection of novels and coffee-table books, a lounge bar with live music where guests gather for pre-dinner drinks, and an open-sided restaurant on Decks 4 and 5. Wooden floors, canvas ceilings and cane chairs give the space a real ‘yacht’ feel. Night owls like to gather at the convivial Top of the Yacht Bar on Deck 6.
STAR-GAZING: Demand is high for one of the Balinese-style beds on Deck 6, where passengers can spend the night under the stars as Seadream I cruises along the Italian Riviera.
Elsewhere on the ship, the SeaDream Spa is Thai certified – the only one of its kind at sea. There is also a sauna and steam room, beauty salon, fitness centre and golf simulator. Yoga and T’ai Chi are offered each morning on deck or ashore. For those with energy to burn, there are also kayaks, SUPs and other water sports facilities, a spectacular water slide straight into the sea and mountain bikes for onshore exploration.
Weather permitting, pre-dinner cocktails are served by the pool, which is where Captain Kristian Kivimaki officially greets guests with a welcome cocktails-andcaviar party as we watch lights come on along the Italian Riviera on our first balmy evening.
Our first port of call is Portofino, one of the most picturesque and photographed Italian Riviera villages. Comfortable tenders transport guests into the pretty harbour every few minutes. A handful of guests join club director Jamie Sommers in climbing to historic Castello Brown, with its bird’s-eye view over the village of gelato-coloured buildings. Others, like me, simply stroll the colourful waterfront with its bistros, bars and boutiques and indulge in a little retail therapy.
While Yachting Land Adventures are offered at each port – the Cinque Terra with lunch at a winery; an artfilled day in Florence; exploring the ramparts of the Renaissance city of Lucca by bike; a cooking class in a
BELOW: Shopping for painted memories. BOTTOM: Mountain bikes are provided for onshore exploring.
Tuscan farmhouse; discovering Napoleon’s house on Elba – many guests prefer to stay onboard, read a book, relax around the pool and enjoy the yacht’s facilities.
Captain Kivimaki confirms my thoughts: “To many, the ship is the destination. ‘Why leave,’ they ask? ‘we’ve got everything we want here.’ ”
SeaDream Yacht Club’s executive chef Tomasz Kowlowski’s cuisine and carefully thought-out menus are a true highlight of any adventure with this boutique cruise company, whether it be the most delicious lunchtime lasagne, seafood platters, Japanese sushi, classic snails or a perfect Chateaubriand. He has
been with the company since its inception in 2001, overseeing the daily changing menus on the twin megayachts SeaDream I and Seadream II. On some itineraries guests can even go shopping with the chef.
All meals on board SeaDream are served, when possible, alfresco on the open-sided dining decks, giving a real feeling of a relaxed yachting lifestyle. For lunch, perhaps fresh prawns, mussels, Thai green chicken curry, a great selection of salads, cheese and healthy desserts. Each night, Chef Tomasz creates four different menus: Savour the Evening, Purely Plant-based, Harmony on the Plate and Culinary Masterpieces
The pretty harbour at Portofino. BELOW: Seadream I at sea, "the Rolls-Royce of cruising".
Norwegian-born owner Atle Brynestad is vegan and has his own organic farm back in Norway. He originally established Seabourn Cruise Line in 1987 before selling it to Carnival, buying back two mega-yachts and starting the SeaDream Yacht Club. Today, he delights in offering SeaDream guests excellent vegan and vegetarian options; the first and largest plant-based menu at sea.
SeaDream I boasts an enviable record of repeat guests. I meet one middle-aged American woman for whom this cruise is her seventh in six years. “I’ve never been on any other cruise line,” she adds.
The clearly happy and intuitive staff are a big part of what makes the SeaDream experience so unique. And they seem to be as loyal to the ship as the returning guests
Captain Kivimaki, who has been with SeaDream since
2018, tells the story that after the pandemic when the crew had dispersed, he was waiting at the airport to see who might return on the crew’s charter flight. “They all came back,” he adds with moist eyes. “They have a very special bond.”
While the crew, the cuisine, the ship itself and the onboard experiences are exceptional, the whole cruise is – well – a sea dream. And remember: as the company motto goes, ‘It’s yachting, not cruising’. You’ll notice the difference. ▪
www.seadream.com
OPPOSITE: Art, poured and plated. BELOW: Top of the Yacht Bar; alfresco dining.
PARADISE FOUND
TRAVELLERS WITH THE GALÁPAGOS ON THEIR BUCKET LIST WILL SOON BE ABLE TO EXPLORE THIS VAST ISLAND ARCHIPELAGO AND NATIONAL PARK IN FIVE-STAR COMFORT ABOARD A MEGA-CATAMARAN PURPOSE-BUILT FOR THE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE. WORDS: JENI BONE.
The 50-metre Hermes mega-catamaran is a oneof-a-kind luxury vessel under construction in Guayaquil, the port city and capital of Ecuador. Its owners, Via Natura, have 31 years of experience delivering tailor-made tours of Ecuador and Peru and operate a fleet of vessels in the Galápagos. But Hermes is unique.
“Hermes mega-catamaran is the first ultra-luxury cruise vessel to sail in the Galápagos Islands,” said Xavier Echeverria, Via Natura sales manager.
“With a guest capacity capped at 20 guests, Hermes provides an unrivalled experience through exclusivity, high-end amenities and a crew-toguest ratio of almost one to one.”
All suites overlook the ocean from their own private balcony with Jacuzzi, and floor-to-ceiling windows for savouring the views day and night. Guests can enjoy a complimentary premium beverage menu, the pampering of butler services and access to luxury amenities such as an onboard hamman with views over breathtaking land and seascapes.
Their equatorial location in the Pacific Ocean around 1,000 kilometres west of the South American continent, at the confluence of three ocean currents, has endowed the Galápagos with a fascinating mix of tropical and temperate
environments that have created a melting pot of unique species.
The Galápagos’ 127 islands, islets and bomboras have been called a “living laboratory of evolution”, a title validated by UNESCO’s declaration of the isles as a World Natural Heritage Site.
They were declared a National Park in 1959, and in 1998 this protected zone was extended to its current 133,000 square kilometres, making it one of the largest marine reserves in the world.
“The Galápagos are known for their unique wildlife and diverse ecosystems,” said Echeverria.
“The archipelago has many endemic species such
‘‘
THE ISLANDS WERE FAMOUSLY VISITED BY CHARLES DARWIN DURING HIS VOYAGE ON HMS BEAGLE IN 1835, AND HIS OBSERVATIONS OF THE GALÁPAGOS’ SPECIES SUBSEQUENTLY INSPIRED HIS THEORY OF EVOLUTION.”
as marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, giant tortoises, cacti and other flora, and the many different subspecies of mockingbirds and finches, as well as characteristic volcanic landscapes.
The islands were famously visited by Charles Darwin during his voyage on HMS Beagle in 1835, and his observations of the Galápagos’ species subsequently inspired his theory of evolution.”
Via Natura chose the multihull platform for its spaciousness and stability in all sea states.
“The catamaran proportions, 50 metres long, with a beam of 14 metres, and dual hull, ensure passenger comfort on board, especially in a
destination like Galápagos, where diverse sea currents interact throughout the year,” Echeverria explained.
The all-suite accommodation consists of 12 state-of-theart cabins – 10 double and two single – each with private en suite, walk-in robe and mini-bar. Hermes’ amenities include a full-service spa, hammam, library and two lounge spaces, plus deck areas for dining and socialising.
Double suites are 35m2 on average, and all are convertible. Four double suites on the main deck can be interconnected to suit larger groups. The two single suites are 20m2 and both are on the main deck.
“Hermes mega-catamaran is the first Galápagos small vessel offering guests a library where they can deepen their understanding of the ‘Enchanted Islands’,” Echeverria said.
The dining hall is the epicentre of the Hermes cuisine
experience, where the onboard chef and culinary team will delight guests’ palates while the visual feast continues outside, thanks to large-panel glazing.
The expansive sundeck caters to alfresco dining and features an outdoor Jacuzzi. Forward on the bow, the observation area comprises seating and tables for guests to mingle while they nature-watch in total comfort.
Crew have been hand-selected for their skills and local knowledge, and guests will benefit from two certified naturalist guides, who will travel with every charter and lead small group expeditions, whether that’s water sports or more sedate bird-watching.
The Hermes mega-cat will offer five itineraries, between four and 15 days, aiming for the perfect balance of land and water activities, wildlife, history and geography, while treating guests to the most significant sites on the
THE HERMES EXPERIENCE: The mega-cat promises adventurous itineraries with every luxury thrown in, including on-deck dining and Jacuzzi, all-suite accommodation, and library.
Galápagos Islands. Activities include hiking, snorkelling, kayaking, paddling, and, of course, immersion in nature to witness the panoply of flora and fauna that exist only in this pristine environment.
Up-close observation, or in-water encounters with species such as giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, curious sea lion pups, marine iguanas, hammerhead sharks, and even the majestic whale shark at certain times of year, will undoubtedly prove enriching, if not life-changing.
The Hermes experience is being marketed by operators and travel agencies around the world, and it has been warmly received, with interest so far exceeding all expectations, according to Echeverria.
The new Scottsdale putter family for preferred feel and distance control.
Available in a variety of alignment designs and stroke types to fit your game.
FIND YOUR PUTTER.
Tou r-proven grip is standard on all regular-length models. The mid-length C raz-E CB (3 7.75″) fe atu res a 17″ grip (pictured).
ESCAPE TO Waikiki
WAIKIKI, ON THE HAWAIIAN ISLAND OF OAHU, OFFERS THE PERFECT BALANCE OF RELAXATION AND ADVENTURE, WHETHER YOU'RE SOAKING UP THE SUN ON THE BEACH, EXPLORING THE ISLAND’S RICH HISTORY OR INDULGING IN WORLD-CLASS DINING AND SHOPPING. WORDS AND PHOTOS: DES FRITH.
Avibrant district that stretches along the south shore of Honolulu, Hawaii’s state capital, Waikiki is an eight and a halfhour flight from Auckland. But once there, Waikiki quickly draws you in, blending relaxation, adventure and history into an unforgettable holiday experience. From pristine beaches and luxury shopping to poignant historical landmarks and thrilling outdoor activities, Waikiki has something for every type of traveller. Your seven-night escape to this Hawaiian hotspot might look something like this:
DAY 1: SETTLING IN
The tropical warmth of Waikiki envelops you the moment you arrive. The island’s natural beauty is undeniable, with its sparkling turquoise waters and lush greenery surrounding the famous Diamond Head crater. After settling into your accommodation, take some time to relax on the golden sands of Waikiki Beach. The gentle sound of the waves is a perfect introduction to your island escape.
Take a stroll along the famous Kalakaua Avenue, the main thoroughfare in Waikiki. Lined with high-end shops, vibrant restaurants and art galleries, it’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and treat yourself to some of the world’s finest shopping.
DAY 2: HISTORY AND HERITAGE AT PEARL HARBOUR
No visit to Hawaii is complete without a trip to Pearl Harbour, one of the most significant and emotional historical sites in the United States. The Arizona Memorial, which commemorates the lives lost during the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941, is an experience that will resonate long after you leave. Stand on the floating memorial above the sunken battleship; embrace the eerie silence from those around you while reflecting on the names of the fallen etched into the stone walls.
After experiencing the Arizona Memorial, take a bus to explore the USS Missouri battleship, famously known as the site of Japan’s formal surrender, ending World War II. Walk the decks of this huge warship, marvel in the size of the massive barrels, while learning what firepower the ship had to offer. Inside the ship is the museum, its displays painting a picture of how the crew lived. Gain an insight into the history that shaped the 20th century. Sitting beside the Missouri, the Aviation Museum offers a fascinating look at military aircraft, and a glimpse into the technological evolution of air warfare. Finally, head below decks of the WWII USS Bluefin submarine. A tight squeeze for some, this was everyday reality for American submariners during WWII.
PHOTO: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson.
The historic air control tower overlooks the Pearl Harbour Aviation Museum.
USS Missouri battleship museum.
The Arizona Memorial.
Looking along Waikiki Beach with the volcanic crater Diamond Head in the distance.
PHOTO: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Vincent Lim.
DAY 3: ADVENTURE AT KUALOA RANCH AND DIAMOND HEAD
An early morning start to catch a tour bus, we embark on a trip to Kualoa Ranch, a historic private nature reserve that has been the backdrop for numerous Hollywood films, including Jurassic Park, Kong: Skull Island and the large-scale battle scene in Wind Talkers A guided tour will reveal the ranch’s lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs and serene valleys. You’ll also hear fascinating stories about the ranch’s history and its pivotal role in Hawaiian culture. For thrill-seekers, there are options for ATV rides, horseback riding, and even zip-lining across the stunning terrain.
An afternoon bus ride back to Waikiki and we lace up our walking shoes and hike up Diamond Head, an extinct volcanic crater that overlooks the beachside district. The 2.6km trail, with stairs and tunnels, takes you through lush vegetation and offers sweeping views from the summit of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a decent hike to the top but the scenery is worth every step.
ABOVE: You can explore Kualoa Ranch in an ATV or take the tour aboard one of the ranch trucks or buses. Stops on the tour include the boneyard, props from the Jurassic Park and Kong film sets. BELOW: Views from the top of Diamond Head.
PHOTO: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Ben Ono.
DAY 4: BEACHSIDE RELAXATION AND GOURMET DINING
Waikiki is renowned for its world-class dining scene, and today is all about indulgence. After a leisurely breakfast at your resort, head back to the beach for a day of relaxation. The gentle rhythm of the ocean and the warm sun create the ideal setting for unwinding. When hunger strikes, head to the Cheesecake Factory, a Waikiki staple known for its generous portions and delectable desserts. Enjoy a cocktail or two on the restaurant’s outdoor patio.
In the evening, treat yourself to a sunset dinner cruise along Waikiki Bay. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of pink and orange, the gentle sway of the boat and the warm ocean breeze make for a serene and romantic experience. Many of these cruises include a Friday night fireworks display, adding an extra layer of magic to your evening.
DAY 5: SURFING, SNORKELLING, AND MORE ADVENTURE
Surfing rules in Hawaii, so why not sign up for a lesson with a local instructor and catch your first wave in the waters of Waikiki? The instructors are skilled at making beginners feel comfortable, ensuring you’re soon standing up on the board and riding the waves with confidence.
In the afternoon, switch gears and look below the waves with a snorkel. Waikiki’s waters are teeming with vibrant marine life, from colourful fish to sea turtles. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeller, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
DAY 6: GOLF AT TURTLE BAY AND A VISIT TO MAGIC ISLAND LAGOON
For a more laid-back yet equally spectacular experience, head to Turtle Bay for a round of golf at the renowned Arnold Palmer Golf Course. With lush fairways, ocean views and a challenging layout, this is an unforgettable golfing experience, set amidst the island’s natural beauty.
Afterwards, visit Magic Island Lagoon, a secluded spot where you can take a peaceful swim or enjoy a picnic by the water. The lagoon has calm, crystal-clear water; a perfect retreat after an action-packed few days.
Friday night fireworks display. PHOTO: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson.
Exploring Magic Island.
Turtle Bay Arnold Palmer Golf Course.
Take the plunge with a surfing lesson.
PHOTO: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson.
DAY 7: THRILLS AT WAIKIKI GUN CLUB
For something truly unique, get to the Waikiki Gun Club. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a first-timer, this shooting range experience offers an adrenaline rush like no other. Under the supervision of experienced instructors, you’ll have the opportunity to test your skills with a variety of firearms in a controlled environment.
Cap off the day and discover the hidden gems of Hawaii by air with a scenic helicopter flight over Oahu. There are many flight providers. Rainbow Helicopters has a number of options for groups
of up to five passengers – with or without the doors on. Or take to the air with the ‘Magnum PI’ experience in a replica helicopter from the 1980s TV show.
Getting around Waikiki is easy, thanks to the abundance of taxis, buses and ride-sharing services. However, if you prefer more freedom, renting a car is a good way to go, particularly for day trips to places like Kualoa Ranch or Turtle Bay.
Accommodation in Waikiki is plentiful, ranging from luxury beachfront resorts to boutique hotels. ▪
Safety first at the Waikiki Gun Club.
A great way to see the island is with a heli tour from Rainbow Helicopters.
Circular coral reefs feature at Kaneohe Sandbar.
QUALITY YOU CAN FEEL. PERFORMANCE YOU CAN TRUST.
TEE OFF IN PARADISE
TOM HYDE EXPLORES THE STUNNING VOLCANIC HAWAIIAN ISLAND HUALALAI GOLF COURSE.
ualalai Golf Course is restricted to members and guests of its Four Seasons hotel. But this is your trip of a lifetime, so you’ve booked two nights at this exceptional five-star hotel because experiencing its dazzling Jack Nicklaus signature golf course is worth it.
Golf is never easy, but Hualalai (pronounced whoala-lie) is the least challenging of the courses you will play on the Big Island. It’s the perfect remedy for jet-lag and a nice way to rediscover your swing. With that in mind, your first stop is the driving range, with its short-game practice area and putting green. You can use Trackman technology to fine-tune your distances.
Here, the fairways are wide and the greens are like ballroom floors. There’s the magnificent Pacific Ocean and touches of tropical paradise everywhere you turn. But this seductive landscape comes with a warning: respect the lava.
Much of the exotic beauty of Hualalai and other courses on Hawaii’s volcanic Big Island is
LAVA FIELDS ARE A UNIQUE FEATURE OF GOLF ON THE BIG ISLAND, BUT PLEASE, DO NOT CHASE AFTER YOUR BALL SHOULD IT COME TO REST ON A JAGGED, EXTREMELY SHARP, UNEVEN LAVA FIELD.”
accentuated by black lava formations from age-old eruptions. Lava fields break up fairways and provide truly hazardous hazards.
The entire island is shaped by flows from Mauna Loa and four other volcanoes. In fact, Mauna Loa boiled over while we were there last time, although there was no threat to our itinerary or to the series of resort hotels and golf courses along the coast.
Lava fields are a unique feature of golf on the Big Island, but please, DO NOT chase after your ball should it come to rest on a jagged, extremely sharp and uneven lava field. If you do, you will quickly learn just how razor-sharp lava can be. It will cut your shoes if it doesn’t take a piece of you, so play another ball and move on.
Hualalai is the venue for the Champions Tour Mitsubishi Electric Championship, played in January. It’s the first tournament of the year for the likes of Bernhard Langer, Ernie Els, Rocco Mediate, and our own Steve Alker, who finished runner-up to Miguel Angel Jimenez in 2022. This year the tournament was won by Ernie Els. Alker finished tied for 5th.
You might pose for the selfie at the par-3, 150m 17th hole. It’s one of the most photogenic golf holes in Hawaii. It plays out to the ocean with lava and bunkers in play.
Hualalai has full sets of clubs for hire. The Four Seasons, meanwhile, offers a choice of beautifully appointed guest rooms, villas and specialty suites and a collection of the best restaurants on the island. And, for cooling down after golf, we suggest you put a hand up for a chilled glass of Big Wave lager at the oceanside Beach Tree Bar. ▪
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.
SIGNATURE HOLE
LENGTH 150 metres, par-3
DESIGNER Jack Nicklaus
The 17th hole at Hualalai Golf Course is a breathtaking par-3 that epitomises Jack Nicklaus’ genius. This 150m gem, carved from ancient lava fields, is the course’s undisputed signature hole, a visual and strategic masterpiece. With the Pacific Ocean crashing just beyond the elevated green, golfers face a dramatic tee shot framed by black lava and a sprawling bunker that guards the entire right side. The wind, often swirling off the sea, adds a layer of challenge, demanding precision over power.
Despite its modest length, the hole’s beauty and difficulty captivate players of all levels. The green, perched above the surf, offers little margin for error, with subtle slopes that test even the steadiest putters. In winter, humpback whales breaching in the distance elevate the experience to something truly magical.
For those lucky enough to play it, the 17th is a bucket-list moment: a perfect harmony of nature and sport that lingers long after the round ends. ▪
Accommodation designed for life.
Whether you’re visiting for a wedding, a relaxing break, or sightseeing, these boutique accommodations are your home away from home.
Each space is designed for simple living and relaxation, each with its own unique character. With four properties in Matakana, they offer a range of options, from individual suites and larger properties to booking multiple properties for weddings or corporate groups. Enjoy the convenience of in-house catering and experience an exclusive, personalised stay.
JAPAN’S ALLURE AS A TRAVEL DESTINATION IS SKYROCKETING AND PAR
KONNICHIWA, GOLFERS!
GOLFING HOLIDAYS IS RETURNING IN 2026 WITH AN UNFORGETTABLE TOUR.
PaR nz’s 15-day fully guided Japan 2026 golf tour, running from April 1 to 15 next year, is perfectly timed to coincide with the breathtaking ‘Sakura’ – cherry-blossom season. For just a fleeting few weeks, these blooms transform the landscape into a pink-and-white wonderland, drawing over 60 million visitors annually. To the Japanese, the Sakura represents renewal and optimism, making it a culturally rich moment to experience.
This luxury tour blends world-class golf with Japan’s captivating heritage. From Tokyo’s bustling energy to the serene beauty of Hakone (near Mount Fuji), the charm of Fukuroi, and the vibrant finale in Kobe, you’ll dive into the nation’s history, savour its exquisite cuisine and marvel at its blend of tradition and cutting-edge innovation. Altogether, a bucket-list adventure.
‘‘
GOLF IN JAPAN STANDS
APART. CUSTOMS MAY DIFFER FROM WESTERN NORMS, BUT THEY ELEVATE THE SPORT IN UNEXPECTED WAYS. ”
Japan boasts more than 2,300 golf courses, all of them member-only and many ultra-exclusive. Thanks to PaR nz’s deep connections in the Japanese golfing world, it has secured access to eight championship courses, two in each city. Designed by globally renowned architects, these layouts offer diverse challenges, stunning vistas and luxurious clubhouses featuring natural onsen mineral spas. Golf here isn’t just a game, it’s an immersive cultural experience.
Golf in Japan stands apart. Customs may differ from Western norms, but they elevate the sport in unexpected ways. Passion for golf runs deep here, second in popularity only to baseball. Japanese stars on the PGA and LPGA tours are national icons
and the country’s golfing roots stretch back to 1901, courtesy of the British. Today, Japan ranks third globally for course numbers – behind only the USA and Canada, and outpacing even Scotland.
What sets Japanese courses apart? Impeccable grooming, lavish facilities and designs from the world’s top architects. The four distinct seasons add another layer, with courses shifting from lush summer greens to striking winter yellows. Once a privilege of the elite and a cornerstone of business culture, golf is now opening up to visitors, with Japan hosting the world’s second-largest golfing population: around two million players.
Tokyo, host of the golf at the 2020 Olympics (Lydia Ko won bronze), adds extra prestige. The Olympic venue, Kasumigaseki Country Club, is a private gem, and the PaR nz group can enjoy an optional pre-tour visit to the club.
The Japan 2026 tour is a rare opportunity: the 2024 and 2025 trips sold out in weeks, and it will most likely be the same for next year. With limited spots, it’s a chance to play exclusive courses, soak in the Sakura spectacle and discover Japan’s unique golfing soul. ▪
COPTHORNE BAY OF ISLANDS 4 COURSE CLASSIC 19-23 May
Tick Kauri Cliffs off your bucket list and play in the 8th annual Copthorne Bay of Islands 4 Course Golf Classic. Experience an unbeatable tournament package featuring four rounds of golf across some of New Zealand’s top courses: Kauri Cliffs, Waitangi, Bay of Islands Kerikeri and Whangaroa, all with carts. Played Monday to Friday over five days. Wednesday offers a rest day to explore the stunning region. Base yourself at the Copthorne Bay of Islands Resort, our 4-star naming sponsor and tournament hub. Nestled harbourside with ocean views, it’s steps away from the courses, cafés and attractions. Options available of ‘Play’ or take advantage of the ‘Play & Stay’ Packages.
CONTACT denise@parnz.co.nz or kim@parnz.co.nz
www.parnz.co.nz
NEW ZEALAND EVENTS
SWING INTO HAWKE’S BAY
2025 TRINITY HILL HAWKE’S BAY 4-COURSE CLASSIC 2-7 November
The 2025 Trinity Hill Hawke’s Bay 4-Course Classic tees off 2 November with a four-day golf extravaganza across five days, blending stellar courses with wine tasting, e-bike tours and art deco vibes. Kicking off at Trinity Hill Winery with free reds and whites, the 200-player field hits Hastings GC, Cape Kidnappers (carts included), and more, all capped off by a Friday finale at Napier GC. Daily prizes, a Melbourne Cup party and a rest day with optional dining. Open to ages 20+ (max handicap 36), this Stableford event fosters fun, camaraderie, and new golfing mates.
CONTACT denise@parnz.co.nz or kim@parnz.co.nz www.parnz.co.nz
LUXURY LINKS & FINE WINES
2025 MORA MILLBROOK MASTERS 16-19 November
Join PaR nz Golfing Holidays for the 23rd MORA Millbrook Masters at New Zealand’s top-rated Millbrook Resort, partnered with MORA Wines. Savour their award-winning Single Site and Central Otago Series, including the trophyladen Rua Pinot Noir and effervescent MORA Sparkling Bubbles. Beyond golf, linger at MORA Wines & Artisan Kitchen, a Queenstown gem with lush gardens and cottage charm. This 54-hole 4BBB tournament spans Millbrook’s Coronet and Remarkables courses, plus Jack’s Point, blending premier golf with luxury stays, wine tastings and a grand farewell dinner. Packages cater to golfers and non-golfers alike. Spring in Queenstown awaits!
CONTACT denise@parnz.co.nz or kim@parnz.co.nz www.parnz.co.nz
Jack’s Point GC
Hastings GC
Millbrook Resort
Cape Kidnappers GC
A PRESIDENTIAL COLLECTION
US PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP OWNS OR HAS GIVEN HIS NAME TO SOME OF THE BEST GOLF COURSES IN THE WORLD. WORDS: TOM HYDE.
Trump International Turnberry, Scotland.
Trump International Golf Club Lido in Indonesia, designed by Ernie Els, opened for play in 2024. It’s the latest golf property to fly the Trump flag, although it’s owned by an Indonesian property development company. The golf course is the centrepiece of a new resort and residence a short drive from Jakarta.
Australian Michael Pascoe, formerly of the Noosa Golf Club, is the course superintendent. Greg Letsche, a design associate of Els, told Golf Course Architecture magazine: “It’s such a beautiful piece of land with incredible views. For bunkers, sometimes the topography whispers gently to you, and as a designer, you listen.”
This is the first Trump-branded golf course in Asia, but it may not be the last. The Trump Organization is in the process of reviving a project in Bali that involves the rebranding of the Nirwana Golf Club, originally a Greg Norman design and, following a pattern, renamed Trump International Bali.
Meanwhile, in the Middle East, another resort course bearing the Trump logo is planned for Oman. After reading of these developments, we felt it was time to survey all the golf properties that carry the Trump name. Apart from those already noted, 15 others are spread across the US, Ireland, Scotland, and Dubai. ▸
US President Donald Trump tees off at Turnberry.
TRUMP NATIONAL LOS ANGELES
Located 30 miles south of downtown LA at Rancho Palos Verdes, this clifftop course, with ocean views from elevated tees, was originally designed by Pete Dye. Unfortunately, it became the victim of a costly landslide that took out much of the 18th fairway. Recovery ran into the millions of dollars and forced the original owners into raising a red flag. The Trump Organization bought it in 2002 and under the direction of architect Jim Fazio made the necessary repairs for the course to re-open in 2006.
Today, the golf course is commonly ranked among the top 10 in California. It’s a 6,620m par 71 from the back tees. Six tee options make it one of the most accessible and finest public courses in the state. The Spanish Colonial clubhouse has a comprehensive pro shop. The first-class service throughout attracts weddings and special occasions.
TRUMP NATIONAL BEDMINSTER
The two courses here – the Old and the New – are about an hour south of New York City. The Old Course gets most of the attention because it hosted the 2017 US Women’s Open. Jordon Spieth won the 2009 US Amateur Championship here. The Old Course was booked to host the 2022 PGA Championship until the PGA of America withdrew the invitation after supporters of the defeated President stormed the Capitol building in Washington on January 6, 2021.
Tom Fazio designed the Old Course; his nephew Tom Fazio II the New. The 1930s Georgian-revival clubhouse was once home to John DeLoren, the automobile engineer and founder of the DeLoren Motor company. The clubhouse, says the website, “is accompanied by an Olympic-size swimming pool, delectable dining options, exceptional tennis and paddle facilities, overnight accommodations, five-star service, and a robust social event calendar”. No more so than when the President is in residence.
Trump International Golf Club Lido, Indonesia.
TRUMP NATIONAL WESTCHESTER
Located in the village of Briarcliff Manor in the heart of posh Westchester County, about 30 minutes north of New York City, the golf club has a long and storied history dating back more than 100 years. Previously called Briarcliff Country Club, it ran into financial difficulties in the 1990s and was taken over by a bank.
Six years later the Trump Organization bought the place in the foreclosure and, as the President had done before after buying a course gone broke, he brought in a new designer, in this case Jim Fazio, to give it a facelift. And what a successful facelift it was. Today, Trump Westchester (not to be confused with the historic Westchester CC in Rye, New York) is a firstclass layout supported by an elegant clubhouse and state-ofthe-art facilities.
TRUMP NATIONAL CHARLOTTE
As in Charlotte, North Carolina, home of Pinehurst No. 2 – a US Open venue where Michael Campbell shocked the golf world with his win. As a comparative measure, it’s worth noting that Trump National Charlotte ranks equal to that historic venue. It’s even been declared Best in the State according to the state hospitality industry – which may or may not know something about golf.
As for golf, the course plays along the banks of Lake Norman and is a beautiful setting from any angle on any hole any time of day. Here, the lake brings water hazards into play as more than half of the 18 holes have flowing inlets, if not the lake itself, to avoid, with little margin for error.
The course was designed by Greg Norman (no relation to the lake) and since then and in keeping up with the family friendly nature of the club, a new ‘Fazio Five’ has been added. It’s a casual five-hole layout built by Tommy Fazio II for family-friendly competitions.
TRUMP NATIONAL HUDSON VALLEY
A two-hour drive north of New York City, this sibling of Trump National Westchester is, according to one source, “more versatile from a shot-making perspective – far better than the ultra-demanding Trump National Westchester, which is overly penal. Trump National Westchester gets a significant chunk of attention, but Trump Hudson Valley also packs some eye-catching golf”.
The course was originally a buffalo (as in American bison) farm before it was made into a golf course. Only the original owner might have done better leaving it to buffalo: the course ran into financial problems that led the Trump Organization to move in, as they have done elsewhere, rebrand it, and add it to the collection.
The 300-acre property features views of the Stormville Mountains, while its expansive Adirondack-style clubhouse boasts first-rate amenities, a pool and fine dining. The course layout reflects the hilly footsteps of the Adirondack region and offers scenic views throughout, though not of the Hudson River itself.
TRUMP INTERNATIONAL DUBAI
We happened to be hanging out in Dubai not long after this course opened, so we naturally went out to have a hit. We learned that while the club carried the Trump brand, it’s owned by a development company and part of a master plan of residences and other amenities of which the golf course is a major attraction.
And a great attraction it is. Having played every course in Dubai, we reckon this is may be the best of them. And the most fun; a tribute to the designer Gil Hanse, who had amateur hacks like us in mind when he built the thing: wide fairways, no water hazards to speak of, negotiable bunkers, and greens that are truly like dance floors and not difficult to read.
Its polished facilities include a double-ended driving range (Rory McIlroy works out here), an indoor airconditioned Performance Academy with analytic swing bays, a floodlit 9-hole par-3 course, a classy pro shop, fitness centre, infinity pool and – to celebrate a respectable scorecard – a fine bar and restaurant. We loved it!
Trump National Hudson Valley, USA.
Trump National Hudson Valley, USA.
Trump International Dubai.
TRUMP INTERNATIONAL DOONBEG
Originally designed by Greg Norman in 2002, notable English architect Dr Martin Hawtree made considerable revisions after Trump bought the course in 2014 for a reported 15 million Euros. This classic links with enormous sand dunes in County Clare on the coast of Ireland, is spread over 4,000 acres. Typical of Trump golf courses, there are tees to suit all handicaps; in this case five of them, ranging from 6,400m to 4,600m from the green.
Sometimes referred to as “Trump Ireland”, the course is perpetually ranked among the top golf resorts in Europe and among the very best in the world. According to UK Golf Guy: “The course has a very natural look and feel to it with some great bunkering and creative greens. Some of the routing feels a bit awkward (you cross the 1st fairway to move from the 17th green to the 18th tee, for example) but it doesn’t really cause too much hassle.”
The Lodge has 218 suites, a spa and several restaurants managed by the Trump Hotel Collection. Critics agree that the service throughout is very good.
TRUMP NATIONAL PALM BEACH
This 27-hole course is where President Trump plays when he’s at Mar-a-Largo, the ‘Florida White House’. It opened in 1999 and is the original course in the Trump portfolio. Designed by Jim Fazio, the older brother of Tom, it’s a blend of rolling fairways, immaculate bunkers and small lakes. From the championship tees, the course plays 6,700 metres long, yet each hole has six tees to play from. Naturalism, as a golf architectural style, is not the way of Trump in this instance. Fazio and his team moved enough dirt to build an offshore island to create the original 18 holes. According to the course website: “Lakes were dug to a depth of more than 50 feet, 5,000 mature trees were strategically transplanted, coupled with new streams and waterfalls that would make Walt Disney proud.”
TRUMP NATIONAL COLTS NECK
The town of Colts Neck is northeast of Philadelphia, not far from Asbury Park and Bruce Springsteen country. It’s best known as a horse-breeding locale, thus the name. But the Trump golf course here is a worthy addition to the best courses in the state, along with Bedminster and Trump National Philadelphia.
Designed by one-time US Open winner Jerry Pate and tweaked by Tom Fazio II, the golf course is a successful ‘inland links’ – that is, it’s not on the coast yet it has features that reflect links play, like pot bunkers, fescue, irregular fairways and water hazards. The terrain is relatively flat, but hardly boring. A notable extra feature here is the 19th hole’s island green directly in front of the clubhouse that, if required, makes for settling bets on the course. The club’s 1,700-square-metre practice putting green is one of the original oversized putting greens that have seemingly become de rigueur for new resorts like Northland’s Te Arai Links.
Trump International Doonbeg, Ireland.
TRUMP NATIONAL JUPITER
This Jack Nicklaus Signature course (meaning Nicklaus was hands-on throughout construction) could be considered a masterpiece. It’s a refreshingly different layout from the typical flat, uniform and all too often predictable look and feel of a Florida resort course. Located a short drive north of Palm Beach, the 11th hole, for example, is a wonderful island green to rival the 17th at TPC Sawgrass. It plays from 80m to 150m depending on the tee.
Here, every hole is compelling for its irregular fairways framed by ponds and tropical bush and trees, marked by pot bunkers and slick, rolling greens that altogether call for precise course management – that is, the kind of shot-making Nicklaus himself was known for. The course, when it opened in 2002, was part of a residential and resort community known as the Ritz Carlton Golf Club. It was bought by the Trump Organization in 2012.
TRUMP NATIONAL PHILADELPHIA
The course was designed by Tom Fazio, clearly a Trump favourite. That and the fact that it is located southeast of Philadelphia and in New Jersey, not Pennsylvania, and that it was the Pine Hill Golf Club before the President added it to his stable, means it can easily be confused with the Pine Valley GC that is perpetually ranked among the Best Golf Courses in America. Yet Trump National Philadelphia does share the same wooded landscape, and it is ranked among the best golf courses in the region.
The amenities, from the clubhouse to dining and service are, by all accounts, first class. As the blurb says: “Complementing our scenic 18-hole golf course is our elegant 43,000-square-foot clubhouse, accompanied by a resort-style heated swimming pool, cabanas, and expansive bar area, in addition to various indoor and outdoor dining options, five-star service, and a robust social event calendar.”
TRUMP INTERNATIONAL SCOTLAND
Located near Aberdeen, the club opened amid strong opposition from locals over potential environmental damage and unkept masterplan promises. But, that aside, there’s no denying this is truly one of the great links of the world. The course incorporates the rugged terrain that characterises the coast north of Aberdeen. It features massive bunkers (one that’s said to be the largest natural bunker in the world), rolling fairways, and greens set among a unique landscape impeccably maintained.
‘‘
IT IS SIMPLY THE MOST DRAMATIC, STIMULATING, INVIGORATING STRETCH OF GOLF ANYWHERE I HAVE SEEN IN MY CAREER.” – MARTIN HAWTREE
It is as much a ‘must play’ today as St Andrews. Martin Hawtree, the third generation of notable Scottish golf course architects, has successfully used the rugged dune-and-valley landscape to give players sweeping sea views from every hole. The course follows the classic links pattern of nine holes out and nine holes back, with all 18 weaving their way through a dramatic landscape. Hawtree has said, “It is simply the most dramatic, stimulating, invigorating stretch of golf anywhere I have seen in my career.”
Trump International Scotland.
TRUMP INTERNATIONAL TURNBERRY
Close to the Firth of Clyde and home to four Open Championships, the legendary Ailsa course at Trump Turnberry is unquestionably among the best in the world. Named after the third Marquess of Ailsa, who a million years ago owned the land, this great golf course was the site of the 1977 Open when Tom Watson beat Jack Nicklaus in what became known as the “Duel in the Sun.”
President Trump bought the golf course in 2014 and hired architect Martin Ebert to re-work it into the gem it is today. The Ailsa course, a 6,800m par-71 known for its demanding front nine, highlighted by its iconic Turnberry lighthouse at the turn, was chosen from a short list of 28 golf courses as Scotland’s Best at the 2024 World Golf Awards. The hotel has been voted Europe’s Best Golf Hotel.
Bottom line: For mad-keen golf travellers, Trump Turnberry is a ‘to-die-for’ destination. The downside: From 1 June this year, green fees for non-hotel residents aiming to tee off before 1pm will rise to £1,000 (around NZ$2,250).
Hotel guests who tee off after 1pm pay half that.
Trump International Turnberry, Scotland.
TRUMP NATIONAL WASHINGTON D.C.
Located on the Potomac River northwest of the capital, the golf course has two 18-hole layouts: the River Course and the Championship Course. It was originally the Lowes Island Golf Club until it too fell on hard times, was taken over by a bank, and then sold to you know who for a reported $13 million. With the makeover, hundreds of trees were removed to provide unobstructed views of the river and, again, a Fazio family member (Tom, in this case) was hired to re-work the golf course.
The result is a course with more water hazards than the average player might like, but then that’s what makes it fun. As one review states: “Most memorable holes include the 502m 8th, which doglegs to the left around water, the 200m 10th, requiring a tee shot over a wandering creek, and the 512m 17th, a water-laden par-5 that leads to a crescentshaped green.”
Too tough? Not for the ageless Bernhard Langer, who in May 2017 became the first player to win all five senior majors with his victory here at the Senior PGA Championship.
TRUMP NATIONAL DORAL
The President’s Doral Golf Club in Miami, Florida, has four courses, the Blue Monster, Red Tiger, Silver Fox and Golden Palm. The Blue Monster (6,950m) is best known because it was a PGA Tour stop for more than 50 years until the club fell into bankruptcy in 2012. That’s when Donald Trump bought the whole package for a reported $150 million. He hired hot golf course architect Gil Hanse to remodel the Blue Monster, a course famous for its par-4 18th hole that plays along water on the left and a series of bunkers and rough on the right, often into a headwind. Adding to its degree of difficulty, the long, narrow green at the 18th slopes towards the water. No longer a PGA Tour stop, the club has hosted two LIV Golf League events. President Trump is a strong supporter of the League. ▪
BARNBOUGLE
MATURED WITH AGE
BARNBOUGLE GOLF LINKS, ON THE NORTHEAST COAST OF TASMANIA, CELEBRATED ITS 20-YEAR ANNIVERSARY WITH A VERY SPECIAL TIPPLE.
Marking the occasion in style, the stunning golf resort partnered with Hellyers Road Distillery to merge two of life’s great pleasures: superb golf and fine whisky. Hellyers Road Distillery is revered for its traditional style of whisky making.
A year after it opened for play in December 2004, Barnbougle’s first course, The Dunes, entered the World Top 100 rankings, where it’s remained since. In 2010, Lost Farm was added, cementing Tasmania as a bucket-list destination for golfers from around the world.
Barrelled in 2004, the 20-year-old single malt anniversary batch matured in American oak for 18 years before being transferred into one French oak cask previously used to age fortified Tasmanian Ruby Pinot.
Limited to 405 bottles, the Barnbougle-Hellyers Road Anniversary Single Malt retails for AU$1,500 a bottle. ▪
TASTING NOTES
NOSE: Cranberries, candied orange, shortbread and spice. Opens with the scent of rich Christmas pudding drizzled with brandy sauce. Candied orange adds a bright citrus note, while warming spices of nutmeg and clove add depth and complexity. Honeyed hazelnuts and walnut skin bring a touch of earthy sweetness, complemented by the comforting scent of buttery shortbread.
PALATE: Figs, raisins, baking spices, creaminess.
On the palate, the single malt delivers a rich tapestry of dark fruits – juicy, ripe figs, plump raisins and sweet apricots, enveloped in a velvety custard. The sweetness is balanced by a warm medley of baking spices, adding complexity and depth. The mouthfeel is full and luxurious, coating the palate with its opulence, with a lingering wine like texture.
