Maritime Museum & Scenic Cruise

OVERVIEW

There’s no better way to experience Auckland, the “City of Sails,” than by cruising its harbor by sailing yacht and touring an innovative museum of maritime history. A short stroll from your ship, board a ketch-rigged sailing scow and embark on a relaxed cruise around Waitemata Harbor – its name based on a Maori phrase describing the shine of obsidian volcanic glass. It’s a fitting description since this gulf and many other aspects of the Auckland coastline were in fact shaped by volcanic forces millennia ago. During your 60 minutes on the water, enjoy coffee or tea as you watch the metropolitan skyline of New Zealand’s most populous city slide by – and see more than enough masted vessels to understand how Auckland earned its nickname. Back on terra firma, pay a visit to the Voyager Maritime Museum, where the country’s nautical heritage takes center stage. With self-guided time here, you might watch a film about the first settlers to sail to New Zealand, visit a rocking steerage cabin that simulates 1840s sea travel conditions, marvel at carved scrimshaw and ship figureheads, or learn about Sir Peter Blake and his America’s Cup wins for Team New Zealand.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Board a stable ketch-rigged sailing yacht for a delightful 1.5-hour cruise around Waitemata Harbor.
• Admire coastal hills long ago shaped by volcanic action and today blanketed to the edge of the sparkling water with a vibrant urban landscape.
• Enjoy a self-guided visit to the Voyager Maritime Museum, where New Zealand’s long seafaring history is brought vividly to life through innovative exhibits.
• At tour’s end, either return to the pier with your guide or stay behind for further exploring on your own.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing including a wind/waterproof jacket.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.