South Pacific Discovery: Norfolk, New Caledonia & Fiji

Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. Home to around a third of the population, Auckland is a stylish, cosmopolitan centre set around two grand harbours. It’s packed with fascinating museums, world-class art galleries and stylish shops featuring local designers.

Your ultra-luxury Discovery Yacht Scenic Eclipse II is waiting for you in Auckland Harbour. As you step on board, you’ll be greeted with a glass of Champagne, setting the tone for your unforgettable journey. Meet the Captain, crew, and your Discovery Team before we set sail into the azure waters of the South Pacific.

Please book your flight to arrive into Auckland prior to 02:00 PM.

Auckland is called the City of Sails, and visitors flying in will see why. On the East Coast is the Waitemata Harbour—a Māori word meaning sparkling waters—which is bordered by the Hauraki Gulf, an aquatic playground peppered with small islands where many Aucklanders can be found "mucking around in boats."Not surprisingly, Auckland has some 70,000 boats. About one in four households in Auckland has a seacraft of some kind, and there are 102 beaches within an hour's drive; during the week many are quite empty. Even the airport is by the water; it borders the Manukau Harbour, which also takes its name from the Māori language and means solitary bird.According to Māori tradition, the Auckland isthmus was originally peopled by a race of giants and fairy folk. When Europeans arrived in the early 19th century, however, the Ngāti-Whātua tribe was firmly in control of the region. The British began negotiations with the Ngāti-Whātua in 1840 to purchase the isthmus and establish the colony's first capital. In September of that year the British flag was hoisted to mark the township's foundation, and Auckland remained the capital until 1865, when the seat of government was moved to Wellington. Aucklanders expected to suffer from the shift; it hurt their pride but not their pockets. As the terminal for the South Sea shipping routes, Auckland was already an established commercial center. Since then the urban sprawl has made this city of approximately 1.3 million people one of the world's largest geographically.A couple of days in the city will reveal just how developed and sophisticated Auckland is—the Mercer City Survey 2012 saw it ranked as the third-highest city for quality of life—though those seeking a New York in the South Pacific will be disappointed. Auckland is more get-up and go-outside than get-dressed-up and go-out. That said, most shops are open daily, central bars and a few nightclubs buzz well into the wee hours, especially Thursday through Saturday, and a mix of Māori, Pacific people, Asians, and Europeans contributes to the cultural milieu. Auckland has the world's largest single population of Pacific Islanders living outside their home countries, though many of them live outside the central parts of the city and in Manukau to the south. The Samoan language is the second most spoken in New Zealand. Most Pacific people came to New Zealand seeking a better life. When the plentiful, low-skilled work that attracted them dried up, the dream soured, and the population has suffered with poor health and education. Luckily, policies are now addressing that, and change is slowly coming. The Pacifica Festival in March is the region's biggest cultural event, attracting thousands to Western Springs. The annual Pacific Island Secondary Schools’ Competition, also in March, sees young Pacific Islander and Asian students compete in traditional dance, drumming, and singing. This event is open to the public.At the geographical center of Auckland city is the 1,082-foot Sky Tower, a convenient landmark for those exploring on foot and some say a visible sign of the city's naked aspiration. It has earned nicknames like the Needle and the Big Penis—a counterpoint to a poem by acclaimed New Zealand poet James K. Baxter, which refers to Rangitoto Island as a clitoris in the harbor.The Waitemata Harbour has become better known since New Zealand staged its first defense of the America's Cup in 2000 and the successful Louis Vuitton Pacific Series in early 2009. The first regatta saw major redevelopment of the waterfront. The area, where many of the city's most popular bars, cafés, and restaurants are located, is now known as Viaduct Basin or, more commonly, the Viaduct. A recent expansion has created another area, Wynyard Quarter, which is slowly adding restaurants.These days, Auckland is still considered too bold and brash for its own good by many Kiwis who live "south of the Bombay Hills," the geographical divide between Auckland and the rest of New Zealand (barring Northland). "Jafa," an acronym for "just another f—ing Aucklander," has entered the local lexicon; there's even a book out called Way of the Jafa: A Guide to Surviving Auckland and Aucklanders. A common complaint is that Auckland absorbs the wealth from the hard work of the rest of the country. Most Aucklanders, on the other hand, still try to shrug and see it as the parochial envy of those who live in small towns. But these internal identity squabbles aren't your problem. You can enjoy a well-made coffee in almost any café, or take a walk on a beach—knowing that within 30 minutes' driving time you could be cruising the spectacular harbor, playing a round at a public golf course, or even walking in subtropical forest while listening to the song of a native tûî bird.

The Bay of Islands is one of the world’s most spectacular sailing destinations, so make sure you’re on your verandah or the Observation Terrace as you arrive early this morning. With its unique sub-tropical climate, around 150 islands and thousands of postcard-perfect coves, this is a little slice of paradise on the North Island.

Scenic Eclipse II will anchor off the coast of Paihia, the first seaport in New Zealand, dating back to the early 1800s. Today it’s famous for watersports, offering kayaking, fishing, parasailing, scuba diving, sailing and more. Nearby is the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the foundation document of New Zealand was signed in 1840.

Freechoice:
Northland Maori Waka Encounter: A thrilling Maori War Canoe tour. Explore historic sites, paddle over Waitangi River estuaries and visit Haruru Falls, while a guide shares legends and customs.

Glowworms and Kauri Forest: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Puketi Kauri Forest and journey through the Kawiti Caves, illuminated by shimmering glowworms.

Bay Of Islands Lunch Cruise & Russell: Sail through the waterways of Opua and Okiato and learn about the colourful people and events that shaped this country before a delicious lunch.

Bay of Islands Getaway Cruise: Enjoy a 4-hour cruise through the Bay of Islands, with highlights including Roberton Island, the iconic Hole in the Rock, and Cape Brett Lighthouse. Swim, snorkel, and take in stunning views, all while learning from live commentary and spotting local wildlife along the way.

Enrich
Maori Culture & Marae Experience: Discover the essence of New Zealand's heritage on a guided tour from Kerikeri Basin to a traditional Maori marae. Immerse yourself in captivating narratives, cultural insights, and unforgettable moments

The Tasman Sea on the west and the Pacific Ocean on the east meet at thetop of North Island at Cape Reinga. No matter what route you take, you'll passfarms and forests, marvellous beaches, and great open spaces. The East Coast,up to the Bay of Islands, is Northland's most densely populated, often withrefugees from bigger cities—looking for a more relaxed life—clustered aroundbreathtaking beaches. The first decision on the drive north comes at the footof the Brynderwyn Hills. Turning left will take you up the West Coast throughareas once covered with forests and now used for either agricultural orhorticulture. Driving over "the Brynderwyns," as they are known,takes you to Whangarei, the only city in Northland. If you're in the mood for adiversion, you can slip to the beautiful coastline and take in Waipu Cove, anarea settled by Scots, and Laings Beach, where million-dollar homes sit next tosmall Kiwi beach houses.An hour's drive farther north is the Bay of Islands, known all over theworld for its beauty. There you will find lush forests, splendid beaches, andshimmering harbors. The Treaty of Waitangi was signed here in 1840 betweenMāoriand the British Crown, establishing the basis for the modern New Zealandstate. Every year on February 6, the extremely beautiful Waitangi Treaty Ground(the name means weeping waters) is the sight of a celebration of the treaty andprotests by Māori unhappy with it. Continuing north on the East Coast, theagricultural backbone of the region is even more evident and a series ofwinding loop roads off the main highway will take you to beaches that are bothbeautiful and isolated where you can swim, dive, picnic, or just laze. .The West Coast is even less populated, and the coastline is rugged andwindswept. In the Waipoua Forest, you will find some of New Zealand's oldestand largest kauri trees; the winding road will also take you past mangroveswamps. Crowning the region is the spiritually significant Cape Reinga, theheadland at the top of the vast stretch of 90 Mile Beach, where it's believedMāori souls depart after death. Today Māori make up roughly a quarter of thearea's population (compared with the national average of about 15%). The legendaryMāori navigator Kupe was said to have landed on the shores of Hokianga Harbour,where the first arrivals made their home. Many different wi (tribes) livedthroughout Northland, including Ngapuhi (the largest), Te Roroa, Ngati Wai,Ngati Kuri, Te Aupouri, Ngaitakoto, Ngati Kahu, and Te Rarawa. Many Māoriherecan trace their ancestry to the earliest inhabitants

Roughly halfway between New Zealand and Australia, this tiny island is an outlying self-governing Australian territory with a tumultuous past. Claimed by Captain James Cook for the British in 1774, it was settled as a convict colony in 1788 and became known as Hell in the Pacific. In 1855, Queen Victoria gave the island to the descendants of the Bounty mutineers, who had outgrown their home on Pitcairn Island.

Today, Norfolk remains a wild place, with dramatic landscapes, towering pines and pounding surf. Perfect for relaxation and exploration, you'll discover a charming small town with rich history. Explore World Heritage-listed ruins and the gorgeous St Barnabas Chapel.

Freechoice:
Half-Day Extravaganza: Visit Norfolk Island's historic areas, such as Kingston, Cascade, and Longridge. Admire the spectacular scenery and learn about its unique history.

Historic Kingston Experience: Embark on a half-day tour of the island's history, including the World Heritage-listed Kingston settlement.

Behind the Scenes: Experience Norfolk Island life by visiting local businesses. Meet owners, sample their products, and pick up some local goods to take home.

Bush Walk Adventure: Choose a gentle stroll through Palm Glen Reserve or a leisurely 3.5km walk up scenic Mt Bates, the island's highest point. Reach the Captain Cook Monument for panoramic coastal views.

Located in the South Pacific Ocean between Australia and New Zealand, Norfolk Island is a peaceful island destination known for its dramatic coastal scenery, rich history, and relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs, the island offers visitors beautiful beaches, scenic walking trails, and stunning ocean viewpoints.

Norfolk Island is home to a fascinating blend of Polynesian and colonial heritage. Visitors can explore the historic settlement of Kingston, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring restored buildings, museums, and convict-era ruins that reflect the island’s unique past. The island’s friendly local culture and traditional customs add to its distinctive charm.

Nature lovers can enjoy the island’s lush national parks, towering Norfolk pines, and abundant birdlife. Emily Bay, one of the island’s most popular beaches, offers calm turquoise waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing by the shore. Scenic drives around the island reveal breathtaking coastal panoramas and peaceful countryside landscapes.

A coral atoll atop a collapsed volcano, Lifou is the largest and highest of the Loyalty Islands. In the north, the coastline ends abruptly in cliffs, while the south is a long expanse of beaches. Further inland, the rich Kanak culture is proudly upheld by the local community.

Freechoice:
The Cliffs of Jokin: Visit a tropical forest in the heart of the Mucaweng tribe and learn about vanilla harvesting. Then marvel at Jokin's towering cliffs, made of fossilised coral.

Lifou's Vanilla House & Forest Animals: Explore Oni Wael Animal Park's nature trail, then tour a vanilla plantation and shop for certified Bio Pasifiki products.

A Melanesian Encounter: Delve into Lifou's history and culture with a local guide, visiting churches, ports, and villages. Join 'mamas' to prepare bougna in an underground oven.

Tropical Forest & Secret Grotto: Discover Lifou's natural wonders and tribal culture on a thrilling two-hour adventure. Guided nature walks, hidden caverns, Melanesian hunting demos, and local refreshments await.

Look out for smoke in the air as you approach Tanna this morning. Mount Yasur is regarded as the world’s most accessible active volcano, regularly shooting sparks into the sky. Captain James Cook first observed ash eruptions in 1774, and the mountain is considered a sacred area by members of the island’s John Frum Cargo Cult, who believe their deity resides inside.

Freechoice:
Island Welcome: Enjoy a warm welcome ashore with captivating performances by the local community, including songs from a traditional women’s choir and the lively Napam Npam women’s dance.

Island Welcome & Volcano Tour: Be welcomed ashore by the community as you listen to the women’s choir and watch local performances. Visit Mount Yasur, walk up a trail up to the rim and peer into the fiery depths of the volcano’s crater.

Discover the vibrant Port Denarau on Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu. This is the gateway to Fiji's most stylish resorts and the stunning Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. With its lively marina, upscale shopping and array of dining options, Port Denarau offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore nearby attractions like the Denarau Golf and Racquet Club or set off into the sparkling ocean for snorkelling, diving and water sports.

Scenic Eclipse II will be staying overnight at Port Denarau, so head to the Sky Bar this evening for a sunset cocktail as you look out over this tropical paradise.

Freechoice:
Fijian Homestead and History: Enjoy a scenic drive to the South Sea Orchid Garden, where you'll savor a welcome cup of tea amidst stunning orchids and memorabilia. Next, we’ll visit Nadi's vibrant marketplace, perfect for colorful souvenirs.

Sigatoka Sand Dunes and Bula Coffee: Discover the history of the Sigatoka Sand Dunes and its ancient pottery, then experience Bula Coffee’s organic, village-supported coffee on a Crop to Cup tour.

Nausori Highland 4WD Tour: Explore the Namaka Market, enjoy panoramic views from Nausori Highlands, and experience a kava ceremony in Yavuna village. Stop at a Hindu temple and Nadi town for lunch before returning to port.

Golf at Denarau Golf Club: Enjoy Denarau Golf & Racquet Club, featuring a scenic 18-hole, par-72 course with a unique Pacific theme, perfect for all skill levels, offering resort-style play and friendly service.

Half Day Boat Fishing: Board your comfortable fishing vessel in Port Denarau and glide over the sparkling blue water with spectacular Fiji scenery in the background. Set out on a half-day fishing adventure and troll for tuna, mahi, wahoo and giant trevally.

This tiny island in the Mamanucas will give you a taste of authentic Fijian life. Home to around 500 people, it welcomes guests with its serene beauty and warm hospitality. Explore pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling at the island of Monuriki, very popular for thew movie " Castaway" with American actor Tom Hanks.

Meet with the friendly locals and experience Fijian traditions, such as a kava ceremony. The ceremony might also include other cultural elements, such as sasa (a welcoming dance) and local performances showcasing the island’s history and way of life. Embark on guided nature walk through the village including a school visit. Entertained by traditional dances and explore local markets with varieties on handicraft displays from clothing, wooden carvings, shells, jewelleries and many more.

Discovery:
Weather permitting, enjoy access to the marina at the back of the yacht. Take advantage of complimentary equipment from Scenic Eclipse II and receive expert guidance from the Discovery Team.

Your journey concludes this morning in Lautoka, the second largest city in Fiji. Set on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, just north of Nadi, it’s the gateway to Fiji’s Sun Coast a pleasant mix of sugar-cane fields, grass-covered peaks, rural villages and market towns.

After a final sumptuous breakfast, farewell your new friends and Scenic Eclipse II crew, taking with you memories that will last a lifetime.

Please book your flight to depart out of Nadi after 12:00 PM.

#Spa treatments at additional cost. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Submersible not operational in New Zealand

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

North of Nadi through sugarcane plantations and past the Sabeto Mountains is Lautoka, nicknamed the Sugar City for the local agriculture and its big processing mill. With a population of around 50,000, it's the only city besides Suva and, like the capital, has a pleasant waterfront. It's the sailing point for Blue Lagoon and Beachcomber Cruises but is otherwise unremarkable for tourists, itself having few hotels and fewer good restaurants. Locals recommend the city as a less-expensive place to shop for clothing, but note that it can take as long as 45 minutes to drive here. Legend has it that Lautoka acquired its name when two chiefs engaged in combat and one hit the other with a spear. He proclaimed "lau toka" (spear hit) and thus the future town was named.