Spectacular Sounds

3 Night Luxury Escape - Sunday to Wednesday

Once upon a time, many millions of years ago, a mountain range tipped in the sea and the Pacific Ocean flooded into its valleys. And so the Marlborough Sounds were born. This intricate geological sculpture of coves, bays and beaches is one of New Zealand’s most magical places. As you can imagine, it’s best appreciated from the water.

Daily Itinerary

Island Passage departs mid-afternoon for Okiwi Bay, which is located within beautiful Croisilles Harbour. In 1827 this area was explored by Dumont D’Urville on his ship Astrolabe, who named the harbour after his uncle the Abbot of Croisilles. Daylight saving ensures there will be plenty of time to explore before dinner - catch a tender to the beach or paddle a kayak around the shore. Dinner at seven is your chance to get to know the other guests. Next morning there’s time for a refreshing swim before breakfast. Then we’ll carefully time our passage through French Pass, because at certain points of the tide the water races through here creating whirlpools and fierce currents. This pass is feared and respected by mariners – D’Urville clipped the reef twice.

Beyond French Pass lies Admiralty Bay – a great place for wildlife watching. We’ll anchor here for the night, so that you can explore the area in kayak or tender. Look for king shags, blue penguins, gannets, white-fronted terns, molly hawks, petrels and shearwaters. With any luck you’ll also see fur seals and dolphins – maybe even an orca or two. The next day is devoted to D’Urville Island. Here the predator-free forest is alive with tui, bellbirds, native robins, weka and kaka. Follow the walking tracks to discover waterfalls, river pools and huge views. After a magnificent dinner, hosted by the captain, take your favourite night cap to a steamer chair and enjoy the night sounds of this magical place.

There’ll be time for a final morning swim or kayak before Island Passage raises her anchor and begins the journey across Tasman Bay to Nelson. Watch for dolphins and orca while you enjoy glorious views of the coast and Tasman Sea. You’ll disembark at 11am. 

3 Night Awesome Abel Tasman Cruise Rates 2009

The rates below are in New Zealand dollars (NZD) and GST inclusive. Valid from 01 November 2008 to 10 December 2009.

Triple bedding rate is based on 3 passengers.

Cruise rates include:

*Prices do not include costs for personal activities and drinks from the bar.  The 6 night cruise rates include the Awesome Abel Tasman and
Spectacular Sounds cruise itineraries.

To book or for more information, please contact your Travel Agent or Enquire Online »