Embark on an unforgettable four-day journey through Queenstown, New Zealand—an exhilarating blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Kiwi experiences. From soaring over alpine landscapes to savoring world-class wines and gourmet cuisine, this thoughtfully curated itinerary immerses you in the heart of the Southern Alps.
Special Notes:
•Any guests travelling with Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines should read further below for airline stipulations with regards to bringing this equipment on tour.
•This program involves walking distances at times over uneven ground. It is not recommended for guests who require use of wheelchair, walker or cane.
•Please advise the RSSC Reservations team when you book this program should you have any special dietary restrictions or requirements. Requests will be sent to our local ground operators for review.
•This program starts in Auckland, New Zealand and ends in Queenstown, New Zealand. Departure flights must be booked out of Queenstown. An economy class internal flight between Auckland and Queenstown is included in the cost of the program.
DAY 1
After disembarking the ship in Auckland, the group will travel by coach to the airport and check in for a domestic flight to Queenstown - from one end of the Country to the other! Note: the flight is not accompanied. Since it will be a while before the group will be seated to lunch in Queenstown’s wine country, a boxed morning tea will be provided for the guests to enjoy at their leisure.
In Queenstown, the group will be met at the airport and escorted directly to your awaiting coach while luggage is transferred directly to your hotel.
Travel by coach to the celebrated Gibbston Valley, the iconic valley of the vines. Nestled between dramatic schist mountains, this picturesque region boasts some of Central Otago’s oldest and most renowned vineyards.
Savor a leisurely late lunch at the Gibbston Valley Winery Restaurant, where exceptional cuisine is paired with stunning surroundings. Enjoy guided wine and cheese tastings and discover the secrets of New Zealand’s largest wine cave.
As evening falls, ascend to new heights on the legendary Skyline Gondola—the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! Glide 480 meters above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu to the summit of Bob’s Peak, where you’ll be greeted by jaw-dropping 220-degree views: take in the majesty of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peak, and the sparkling lights of Queenstown below.
Enjoy dinner served in a stylish setting with floor-to-ceiling windows framing the spectacular panorama. It’s the ultimate vantage point to watch the sun set on this unforgettable day – a perfect blend of adventure, scenery, and culinary delight.
DAY 2
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast in the hotel’s restaurant, then step outside to embark on a thrilling 4WD adventure into one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes. Awaiting you are rugged vehicles and expert guides ready to transport you to the legendary Skippers Canyon—a region steeped in gold rush history and timeless beauty.
Journey along dramatic, winding mountain roads that trace the path above the Shotover River, famously known as the “richest river in the world” after the gold rush of 1862. Your experienced drivers will expertly navigate through spectacular scenery, revealing Queenstown’s ultimate back-country experience along one of the country’s most historic mining routes.
Pause beside the crystal-clear waters of the Shotover River, where you’ll get hands-on with gold panning—an authentic taste of New Zealand’s pioneering spirit. Then, continue to the fascinating, abandoned township of Skippers. Here, enjoy morning or afternoon tea and take time to explore the historic heritage buildings, once home to families drawn by the promise of gold and adventure.
At the conclusion of this morning’s 4WD tour, you will have some time to wander the township and enjoy lunch at your leisure.
As evening falls, step aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw, affectionately known as the 'Lady of the Lake,' for a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu. With over a century of history, this elegant steamer offers a relaxing passage to Walter Peak Station, one of New Zealand’s most renowned sheep and cattle farms.
Experience authentic high-country hospitality as you enjoy a mouth-watering BBQ dinner at the historic homestead restaurant. Witness farm life up close, soaking in the sights and sounds of this legendary station. At the end of the evening, the TSS Earnslaw will gently transport you back to Queenstown, perfectly concluding your remarkable day—and your final night at the hotel.
DAY 3
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an unforgettable journey to Glenorchy, perched at the head of the sparkling Lake Wakatipu. At this point, board a back-road bus through the remote rural landscapes of the Rees Valley. coach and wind your way through the breathtaking countryside, arriving in the picturesque Rees Valley.
Step off the beaten path with a short, guided walk through the ancient forests of Mount Aspiring National Park, leading to the scenic Chinaman’s Bluff. This magical Dart Valley was the backdrop for iconic scenes in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, and its cinematic beauty is truly spellbinding.
Next, prepare for excitement as you hop aboard a purpose-built jet boat for a thrilling journey deep into the untouched wilderness of Mt. Aspiring National Park. Glide along the pristine Dart River, surrounded by majestic mountains, sparkling glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and clear alpine streams. This exclusive World Heritage eco-experience is the only way to access this extraordinary region.
Your expert guide will share fascinating stories about the area’s rich history, the legendary Greenstone trail, and captivating Maori myths, adding a personal touch to your adventure. A delicious lunch awaits at Mrs Woolley’s in Glenorchy, followed by time to browse charming local shops before returning to Queenstown in the afternoon.
You will have some time to relax before a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
DAY 4
Enjoy breakfast and then check out, settling any incidentals before your departure.
A private transfer to Queenstown International Airport will be arranged in accordance with your flight schedule. Check out time at the hotel is at 3:00pm. Should you have a late departing flight, you will be able to store luggage at Reception until your transfer time.
Note: A private van or SUV will be used to transfer couples or parties of two between the airport and the hotel. Vans hold a maximum of four pieces of large luggage (total) plus one carry-on sized bag per person. A sedan will be used for solo guests, which can hold 2 large suitcases and a carry-on. If you will have more luggage, a larger vehicle may be required for additional cost. Please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before sailing if a larger vehicle is required. Transfers are with driver only.
Land Program Details Step by Step:
•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. This program is subject to flight confirmations which are beyond our control. All program details including timings and any flights indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed.
•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing.
•Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.
DAY 1
8:30am Disembark the ship in Auckland, locate luggage and meet your guide
9:00am Transfer from Auckland Cruise Terminal to Auckland Domestic Airport
11:30am Commerical flight to Queenstown (flight details TBA and subject to change)
1:25pm Arrive in Queenstown
1:40pm Transfer to Gibbston Valley Winery
2:00pm Lunch followed by wine tasting
4:30pm Depart Gibbston Valley for hotel
5:15pm Arrive at your hotel with some time to freshen up before dinner
6:15pm Meet in the hotel lobby and depart by coach to Skyline
Ride the gondola up to Skyline for pre-dinner drinks and dinner
7:30pm Group dinner and then return to your hotel
Overnight at QT Queenstown or similar hotel
DAY 2
6:00-8:00am Breakfast at your hotel
8:15am Meet your guide in the hotel lobby for the Skippers Canyon Tour
12:15pm Tour concludes and guests are dropped in town or at the hotel
Lunch at leisure and time to wonder the township
4:30pm Meet in the lobby and transfer to Steamer Wharf
4:45pm Board the TSS Earnslaw to cross Lake Wakatipu for Walter Peak
5:45pm Arrive at Walter Peak for BBQ dinner and farm show
8:15pm TSS Earnslaw departs for Queenstown
9:00pm Arrive into Queenstown and return to your hotel
Overnight at QT Queenstown or similar hotel
DAY 3
6:00-8:00am Breakfast at your hotel
8:00am Meet your guide and transfer to Dart River Safari in Glenorchy
9:00am Arrive into Glenorchy and begin Dart River Safari
12:00pm Tour concludes, transfer to lunch venue
12:15pm Lunch at Mrs Woolly’s
1:15pm Return to Queenstown for some leisure time before dinner
6:45pm Group dinner at hotel restaurant or similar venue
Overnight at QT Queenstown or similar hotel
DAY 4
Breakfast and morning at leisure
10:00am Check out time at the hotel
TBA Private Transfer to Queenstown Airport according to your flight time
Luggage storage is available for guests with late flights
Extra Nights:
•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the same hotel used on the LAST NIGHT of your program.
•When you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 10:00am (subject to change).
•Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.
Transfers:
•All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.
•Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.
•Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.
What to bring:
Comfortable, weather appropriate clothing that can be layered, umbrella or rain jacket, bathing suit, hat, sunscreen, camera, chargers
Local Currency:
New Zealand Dollar
Electricity
Voltage: 230 V (sometimes stated as 230–240 V), Plug Type: Type I
We recommend you bring a universal travel adapter for electric devices.
Luggage information
On the economy class flight between Auckland and Queenstown, guests will be able to check two pieces of luggage up to 23kg / 50 lbs. each and bring one small carry-on bag on the flight that can fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Any additional or overweight bags will be at the expense of each guest and payable directly to the airline at the time of check in.
Carriage of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) or CPAP breathing machines on internal flights per airline regulations (subject to change as each airline has their own regulations)
1. Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) - Guests must obtain a Doctor’s Certificate mentioning their medical condition and the need to carry a POC. Further paperwork may be required by the airline.
2. CPAP Machine NOT being used in flight – please advise RSSC at least 95 days before your cruise if you will bring a CPAP on the internal flight(s) used in this land program. Please supply the make, model and battery type.
3. CPAP Machine to be used during flight – same as above + a doctor’s note is required mentioning the need to use the machine during flight.
*Guests are required to bring with them any details from the manufacturer regarding the CPAP specifications. While most modern CPAP machines are FAA-approved for in-flight use, having a copy of your manufacturer’s FAA-approval status will help to quickly clear any confusion that may arise.
* Failure to provide the above details in a timely manner may result in a denial of this equipment at the airport for which Regent Seven Seas Cruises nor our local ground operator will be responsible for.
*Some hotels do not provide distilled water. While we can certainly request this for you, we cannot guarantee that it will be available. If received in a timely manner, at least 95 days before sailing, requests will be sent on the final manifest that our ground operators and hotels receive. We highly recommend packing your own supply especially on programs that travel to more remote locations in order to avoid not having it. Please keep in mind the rule for liquids in carry-on bags. Many hotels will charge for distilled water. If there is a fee, this will be added to your hotel incidental account to be paid at check-out. Fees will vary from hotel to hotel.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
To enter New Zealand, you need a valid passport, and a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) or visa, depending on your nationality. All travelers must also complete a New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) before arrival. Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your departure date.
VERY IMPORTANT
The name on your cruise booking, passport and any visas if required, must all be exactly the same for flight ticket purchase for this program otherwise guests may be denied travel by flight. Please ensure that all documents are identical in spelling to the names provided for your cruise reservation including first, middle and last name. Manifests generated by the cruise line must match your travel documents.
Failure to have the required documents ahead of time will result in denial of travel and guests will have to pay for any expenses incurred in order to not proceed with the program.
The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.
If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.
Aircraft type (subject to change):
Airbus A320 (economy class flight from Queenstown to Auckland)
Accommodation:
QT Queenstown
30 Brunswick Street, Queenstown
Phone: 0064 3 450 3450
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•3 nights at the QT hotel in a Lake King or QT King Room (subject to change)
•All entrances and tours per the above itinerary
•All Transfers (including a private transfer from airport to hotel on Day 1)
•3x full buffet breakfast, 2 lunches with 1 beverage per lunch, 3 dinners with 2 beverages per dinner, 1 wine tasting.
•Economy class flight from Auckland to Queenstown (direct flights not guaranteed)
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Gratuities for drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including gratuities, mini bar, laundry and room service
•Excess or overweight luggage fees on flights
•Additional beverages at lunch and dinner
Please note:
Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.
Price: $2,799 per guest based on double occupancy.
Land program promotions are per person for guests 1 and 2 for one pre- or post-cruise program only, subject to terms.
