Mountains, Glaciers & Lakes Mid-Cruise Journey (Single) (TIU to DUD)
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Port
Timaru, New Zealand
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$5500
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
2 Days/ 1 Night
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Meals Included
Meals included
Day 1 (L/D) Timaru - Aoraki Mount Cook - Tekapo - Queenstown
Leave the ship in Timaru, a charming coastal town known for its historic architecture and proximity to the Southern Alps. From here, enjoy a short drive to the local airfield, where your alpine adventure begins.
Board a scenic helicopter flight bound for Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak at 12217 feet (3,724 m). As you soar above the Southern Alps, take in breathtaking aerial views of snow-capped mountains, glacial valleys, and turquoise alpine lakes. Your flight includes a glacier landing, offering the rare opportunity to set foot on ancient ice and breathe in the pristine mountain air. Enjoy lunch served on the mountain, surrounded by the raw beauty of New Zealand's most dramatic landscapes.
Continue your journey by helicopter to the serene shores of Lake Tekapo, famed for its striking turquoise waters colored by glacial silt. This area is also home to one of the most photographed landmarks in the country -- the Church of the Good Shepherd. This humble stone church punches well above its weight with views from the altar of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Enjoy some free time to wander along the lakefront or explore the local cafés and artisan shops.
A scenic overland drive brings you to Queenstown -- a road journey that winds through the rugged Lindis Pass and past vast high-country sheep stations (farms). Upon arrival, check into your hotel before the evening's adventure.
It is a short transfer to Queenstown's historic waterfront where you will board the TSS Earnslaw -- a vintage steamship that plies the waters of beautiful Lake Wakatipu. Steaming up the lake, you're surrounded by alpine peaks en route to the iconic Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Enjoy a lakeside dinner at the Homestead Restaurant, featuring locally sourced cuisine in a warm, rustic setting. After dinner, watch a demonstration of farm skills, including the beloved Kiwi tradition of sheep shearing and working dogs.
Cap off the evening with a tranquil cruise back across the lake beneath the stars.
Day 2 (B/L) Queenstown - Otago Wine Country - Port Chalmers
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel; then, travel by road through Central Otago's sun-drenched hills and rugged terrain. This region is renowned for its world-class wineries, particularly its Pinot Noir.
Stop for a leisurely lunch at a local vineyard, where you'll enjoy fine food paired with regional wines amid the vines and dramatic mountain scenery.
In the afternoon, continue your journey to Port Chalmers, the historic port town serving Dunedin, where your cruise ship awaits.
Please note:
Your luggage will travel with the vehicle transportation that meets you in Tekapo after your helicopter flight. Items such as medication, credit cards, etc, that you will need during the day must be packed into a small personal bag that you can take on the helicopter. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, ice, snow, inclines, gravel, grass, and steps. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Participants must be able to climb into the helicopter unassisted. Wear sturdy hiking shoes. The tour is guided; an escort from the ship's staff may or may not also accompany the group. Tour operates subject to meeting a minimum number of participants. You must book this mid-cruise adventure/overnight journey PRIOR to sailing; the cut-off date is 45 days before the ship's call at Timaru. Accommodation is included (hotels are subject to change). Airport assistance and transfers (if any), transportation by air-conditioned coach, any flights and entrance fees indicated in the itinerary, an English-speaking guide (unless otherwise noted), water on the vehicle, and meals (as indicated) are also included. Gratuities and personal expenses are not included. Bring your passport with you on tour. Cancellation Policy: This excursion is non-refundable within 45 days prior to arrival into Timaru. Any cancellations made after this deadline will be subject to full payment of the tour cost, including if you cancel your cruise voyage within 45 days prior to arrival into Timaru.
Respiratory Devices:
Stringent regulations apply to air transportation of breathing/respiratory devices. Guests intending to bring such a device must notify Seabourn's head office or the Destinations team on board at least 30 days before the start of the tour. FAA documentation and a physician's authorized letter detailing the device's particular use and technical information about the device are required. Each airline will inspect the device before boarding to ensure compliance; it is your responsibility to ensure adequate screening time before boarding your flight.
Important information regarding visa requirements:
You must bring your passport with you on the tour. It is solely each participant's responsibility to obtain any necessary visas, tourist cards and vaccinations, if required, to participate in Mid-Cruise Adventures and/or Overnight Journeys and to keep apprised of any policy changes. Visas may be required for any/all countries your tour departs from and travels through and for the country where you will rejoin the ship. Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the cruise. Your travel agent can assist you with your visa needs. If you require further assistance, Seabourn's preferred visa service is CIBTvisas. US and Canadian citizens can reach them by phone or email: US citizens: 866 788 1100 or email customerservice@cibtvisa.com. Canadian citizens: 866 935 8472 or email customerservice@cibtvisas.ca. CIBTvisas phone numbers and email addresses for Dutch, German, Australian, United Kingdom, Belgian, Singapore, Spanish, Swiss and French citizens can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions section of Seabourn's website, in the Cruise Preparation area. Applications and additional information can be downloaded from the CIBTvisas website at https://CIBTvisas.com/seabourn You must advise CIBTvisas of your Mid-Cruise Adventure and/or Overnight Journey, as the visa requirements for these vacation enhancements may vary from those required for your cruise.