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Tasman Passage, 30 January 2029


Cruise overview
Itinerary
Auckland
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.
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Tauranga
Gisborne
Napier
Wellington
Picton
Lyttelton
Dunedin
Sailing Dusky Sound
Cruising the Tasman Sea
Cruising the Tasman Sea
Hobart, Tasmania
Cruising the Tasman Sea
Sydney, New South Wales
Sydney, New South Wales
Veranda Suite
This suite is a wonderfully cosy retreat that includes a private balcony. In addition to a signature Elite Slumber™ bed, you’ll enjoy amenities such as lavish bath products, an interactive flat-screen TV and plush bathrobes and slippers. The intimate sitting area includes a table that is the perfect size for a welcome bottle of Champagne and an in-suite breakfast. For your convenience, 24-hour room service is a phone call away.
Amenities
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Suite Benefits
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Regent Suite
Incomparable craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail are evident everywhere – from the suite’s unique design choices, such as rare works of art, to grand features like an in-suite spa retreat and Steinway piano. The only thing to rival the luxurious interior that includes two magnificent bedrooms is the spectacular ocean view from private balconies that include a Tresse Minipool high atop the ship.
- Second Bedroom
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Whirlpool Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- Suite Benefits
- Butler Service
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- King or Twin Configuration
- Room Service Available
- Full Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Coffee Machine
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Ironing Board
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
- Desk
- Exclusive
Signature Suite
You’ll find Park Avenue chic onboard Seven Seas Explorer® in this extravagant, stylish suite. A rich colour palette, the finest fabrics and a grand piano create sophisticated comfort, while a personal butler will happily assist with both ordinary and special requests. With two spacious bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a large living room and a wrap-around private balcony, this suite is perfectly suited to host gatherings of new friends.
- Second Bedroom
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Whirlpool Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- Suite Benefits
- Butler Service
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Double or Twin Configuration
- King or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Room Service Available
- Full Bar
- Wi-Fi (Additional Cost)
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Coffee Machine
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
- Desk
- Exclusive
Grand Suite
Step into the richness of an emerald green dining area perfectly ensconced within a spacious, sumptuous living room. Just outside is a private balcony with a table and chairs, perfect for in-suite breakfast. The private bedroom is large and inviting, its soothing colour palette perfect for a peaceful night’s rest on your King-Size Elite Slumber™ Bed. Two full baths make it a perfect space for entertaining new friends on the high seas.
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- Suite Benefits
- Butler Service
- Free Wi-Fi
- King or Twin Configuration
- Dining Area
- Shower
- Room Service Available
- Full Bar
- TV
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Coffee Machine
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
- Desk
- Exclusive
Explorer Suite
One look at this suite and you’ll be uncorking a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Champagne and toasting your good fortune. A soothing color palette, attention to detail and soothing lighting invite you to unwind in style. The subdued elegance continues with a resplendent private bedroom and one-and-a-half bathrooms, where marble and stone details complement the scents of a variety of lavish soaps, shampoos and lotions.
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- Suite Benefits
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- King or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Room Service Available
- Full Bar
- Butler Service
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Coffee Machine
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
- Desk
- Exclusive
Seven Seas Suite
This suite welcomes you with soothing colours, pleasing artwork and comfortable furnishings. Relax in the sitting area after an exciting day ashore and enjoy the selection of fresh canapés delivered by your personal butler. Then retreat to your private balcony to watch the ever-changing vistas and ponder your next destination.
- Vanity Area
- Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- Suite Benefits
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Shower
- Room Service Available
- Free Mini Bar
- Butler Service
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Coffee Machine
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
- Desk
Penthouse Suite
The luxurious suite has been carefully designed to maximise space and comfort. Relax on your private balcony and indulge in your lavish bath amenities as you recharge and ready yourself for new adventures in the next port of call. This suite also includes priority online reservations for shore excursions and dining, and you’re encouraged to call on the services of a personal butler for special requests.
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Bath
- Suite Benefits
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- King or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Whirlpool Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Free Mini Bar
- Butler Service
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Coffee Machine
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
- Desk
Concierge Suite
In this superbly designed suite, enjoy once-in-a-lifetime views of the horizon from the comfort of your King-Sized Elite Slumber™ Bed as well as exclusive luxuries available only in suites at the Concierge level and higher. Your suite includes amenities such as an illy® espresso maker and cashmere blankets, perfect for use in the morning when you wish to sip coffee and enjoy an in-suite breakfast on your private balcony.
- Vanity Area
- Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Butler Service
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Coffee Machine
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Ironing Board
- Telephone
- Desk
Serenity Suite
With more than 400 square feet (121.9 square meters) of space, including a private balcony, this suite is an excellent choice if you want a little extra room. Even your sleeping accommodations are spacious, as the Elite Slumber™ bed is a European king-size and faces floor-to-ceiling windows that provide ocean views from your bed. A walk-in closet, dual sinks in the bathroom and wonderful bath amenities make it a pleasure to prepare for your day’s adventures.
- Lounge Area
- Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- Suite Benefits
- TV
- King or Twin Configuration
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Room Service Available
- Free Mini Bar
- Free Wi-Fi
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Deluxe Veranda Suite
Thoughtfully designed to maximise interior space and embrace the magnificent scenery outdoors, this suite is a joyful retreat. From the sitting area, admire the ocean views through the floor-to-ceiling windows, or better yet, take a seat outside on your private balcony to watch the world go by. Elegant finishes such as luxurious bedding and beautiful marble detailing in the bath further enhance your comfort.
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Free Mini Bar
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Veranda Suite
This suite is a wonderfully cosy retreat that includes a private balcony. In addition to a signature Elite Slumber™ bed, you’ll enjoy amenities such as lavish bath products, an interactive flat-screen TV and plush bathrobes and slippers. The intimate sitting area includes a table that is the perfect size for a welcome bottle of Champagne and an in-suite breakfast. For your convenience, 24-hour room service is a phone call away.
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Suite Benefits
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Free Mini Bar
- Media/Entertainment Station
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Deck 14
- Regent Suite
- Penthouse Suites
- Concierge Suites
Deck 12
- Grand Suites
- Penthouse Suites
- Explorer Suites
- Concierge Suites
- Jogging Track
- Golf Nets
- Sports Deck
- Shuffle Board
- Bocce Court
- Paddle Tennis Court
- Putting Green
Deck 11
- Observation Lounge
- Card Room
- Connoisseur Club
- Library
- Culinary Arts Kitchen
- Pool Bar
- Smoking Area
- Pool Deck
- Pool Grill
- La Veranda/Sett Mari
- La Veranda
Deck 10
- Concierge Suites
- Explorer Suites
- Penthouse Suites
- Grand Suites (Forward)
- Serenity Suites
- Chartreuse
- Prime 7
- The Study
Deck 9
- Grand Suites
- Penthouse Suites
- Serenity Suites
- Explorer Suites
- Concierge Suites
- Deluxe Veranda Suites
Deck 8
- Penthouse Suites
- Seven Seas Suites
- Signature Suites
- Concierge Suites
- Serenity Suites
- Deluxe Veranda Suites
Deck 7
- Penthouse Suites
- Seven Seas Suites
- Serenity Suites
- Concierge Suites
- Veranda Suites
- Deluxe Veranda Suites
- Grand Suites (Aft)
Deck 6
- Fitness Centre
- Penthouse Suites
- Concierge Suites
- Deluxe Veranda Suites
- Veranda Suites
- Launderette
Deck 5
- Constellation Theatre
- General Manager
- Business Centre
- Destination Services
- Atrium
- Reception & Concierge
- Meridian Lounge
- Coffee Connection
- Pacific Rim
- Serene Spa & Wellness
- Infinity Pool
Deck 4
- Constellation Theatre
- Boutiques
- Explorer Lounge
- Atrium
- The Casino
- Compass Rose
Ship features
Seven Seas Explorer combines contemporary grandeur with the comfort of a private yacht, creating a truly indulgent experience at sea.
- All-suite, all-balcony accommodation
- Seven dining venues including Compass Rose and Pacific Rim
- World-class Canyon Ranch Spa and Fitness Centre
- Expansive pool deck with heated pool and whirlpools
- Regent Suite – the largest suite at sea
- Stylish lounges and intimate entertainment venues
- Enrichment lectures and culinary demonstrations
- Complimentary shore excursions in every port
- Unlimited beverages, WiFi, and gratuities included
- Attentive service from a near one-to-one guest-to-crew ratio
Accommodation
Accommodation
Seven Seas Explorer features 366 suites, each offering a private furnished balcony, spacious living area, and marble bathroom with double vanities and L’Occitane or Guerlain amenities. Suite categories range from the luxurious Veranda Suite to the extraordinary Regent Suite – a 4,400 sq. ft. residence featuring a private spa, piano, and wraparound balcony with unobstructed views. Every suite includes a stocked minibar, interactive TV, 24-hour room service, and a walk-in wardrobe. Butler service is available in Penthouse Suites and above.
Dining
Dining
Dining on Seven Seas Explorer rivals the finest restaurants ashore. Compass Rose, the largest speciality restaurant at sea, offers a bespoke menu tailored nightly. Pacific Rim celebrates Asian cuisine with a contemporary twist, while Prime 7 serves premium steaks and seafood in an elegant steakhouse setting. Chartreuse offers French fine dining in chic surroundings, and La Veranda transforms into Sette Mari each evening, serving authentic Italian dishes. The Pool Grill and Coffee Connection provide relaxed, casual options, ensuring exceptional variety throughout your voyage.
Amenities
Amenities
Public spaces aboard Seven Seas Explorer are beautifully designed, with rich marble, crystal chandeliers, and curated art collections. The Observation Lounge offers sweeping panoramic views, while the Connoisseur Club and Meridian Lounge provide sophisticated evening settings. The Pool Deck features a heated pool, twin whirlpools, and attentive service from staff providing chilled towels and refreshments. For cultural enrichment, the Culinary Arts Kitchen offers hands-on cooking classes led by expert chefs.
Wellness
Wellness
The Serene Spa & Wellness by Regent offers a sanctuary of relaxation, combining holistic therapies and traditional techniques inspired by global wellness traditions. Treatments include hot stone massages, aromatherapy, and restorative rituals using natural ingredients. The adjoining fitness centre features modern equipment, personal training sessions, and group classes, including Pilates and yoga.
Entertainment
Entertainment
Evenings aboard Seven Seas Explorer are elegant and engaging. The Constellation Theatre hosts live performances ranging from musical revues to cabaret-style productions. Guests can enjoy live jazz or piano music in the lounges, attend enrichment lectures, or simply relax under the stars. The Casino offers gaming in a refined atmosphere, while occasional deck parties and destination-themed events add a sociable flair to nights at sea.
Families
Families
Seven Seas Explorer welcomes families, offering spacious suites ideal for multi-generational travel. Select itineraries feature the Club Mariner Youth Programme for children aged 5–17, with supervised activities led by trained staff. Excursions, enrichment sessions, and dining options cater to guests of all ages, ensuring memorable experiences for families travelling together.


