Heritage’s new Explorer

HERITAGE Expeditions has welcomed a new 18-guest yacht (pictured) to its fleet.

The cruise line’s new vessel, Heritage Explorer is almost 30 metres in length, and is New Zealand-flagged, meaning it will form the basis of expanded domestic operations for Heritage.

Formerly sailing as Suwannee River and Kalibobo Spirit, Heritage Explorer’s arrival also marked the expansion of the cruise line’s expedition repertoire, Director & Expedition Leader Aaron Russ said.

“Operating a Kiwis-only summer season has shown us that New Zealanders are as passionate as ever about exploring our amazing backyard and Heritage Explorer will offer a more accessible and intimate variation of our traditional voyages,” said Russ.

“We are really excited to bring a new style of voyage to destinations we know intimately, and offer more in-depth exploration experiences of NZ.”

Heritage Explorer is currently being prepared for her maiden voyage with the cruise line, with new itineraries and destinations being finalised, set to include the Hauraki Gulf, the Bay of Islands, Marlborough Sounds, Stewart Island and Fiordland.

The ship will also be available for private charter, and includes a Master Suite, as well as Double, Twin and Single options, all featuring private en suites, windows or portholes, climate controlled air conditioning, PABX satellite telephone and televisions, with access to the

Heritage Explorer’s GPS.