See a Different New Zealand – Cruising with Coral Princess for 25 Per Cent Off

Coral Princess Cruises has launched its 2009/10 program of small-ship, expedition-style cruises in New Zealand – and is offering a 25 per cent discount on its Auckland to Bay of Islands voyages for departures between December and February. The offer is available for new bookings made until July 31, 2009.

The five-night Bay of Islands cruise aboard Coral Princess’s purpose-built luxury expedition vessel, Oceanic Discoverer, departs from either Auckland or Paihia, exploring the hidden coves and spectacular coastline of the far north-eastern tip of New Zealand’s North Island.

Summer cruising in the Bay of Islands reveals hidden clear-water fiords and sub-tropical islets, as well as better-known sites such as the Hole in the Rock – a rock ‘tunnel’ etched by wind and waves; Deep Water Cove; Roberton Island and Urupukapuka – the largest of the 144 islands in the Bay of Islands.

Representing savings of up to $1,575 per couple in a Main Deck B Stateroom, prices start at $2,362 per person twin share. This includes accommodation, all meals, activities and excursions during the cruise, lectures and services of expedition staff on board, group transfers and landing fees. There are twelve departures, six each from Auckland and Paihia between December 19, 2009 and February 2, 2010.

Departing from World Heritage Milford Sound and travelling to Auckland, or vice versa, the 12-night Milford Sound cruise explores New Zealand’s east coast, including the remote reaches of Milford and Doubtful Sound – described as New Zealand’s most spectacular waterway. Stewart Island is renowned for its birdlife, including kiwis and penguins, and marks the southernmost point on the voyage. Heading north, the ship stops at secluded Akaroa Harbour, where it’s possible to swim with dolphins, while Kaikoura is known as the best destination for whale watching.

The Tory Channel marks the entrance to the beautiful blue-green waters of Marlborough Sound, where Oceanic Discoverer’s guides interpret the history and natural attractions on guided walks. The trip also takes in Art Deco Napier, historic Gisborne, the active volcano on White Island and there’s time to explore the beaches and caves of the remote Mercury Islands, before ending the trip in Auckland.

The Milford Sound voyage departs on February 8 and 20, 2010 and costs from $7590 per person, twin share in a Main Deck B stateroom. Prices include all meals, accommodation, excursions, transfers and port taxes.

Carrying a maximum of just 72 guests, Oceanic Discoverer provides all the comforts and facilities of larger cruise ships. But Oceanic Discoverer is small enough to access remote bays and islands that larger vessels can’t reach.

For further information, call 1800 079 545 or visit www.coralprincess.com.au.