Kiwi Adventure

4.1/5 Based on 19 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Inside
$1,891
Oceanview
$2,057
Balcony
$3,524
Suite
$3,724
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
14 Days
 Cruise Starts
Melbourne
 Cruise Finishes
Melbourne
14 Day Kiwi Adventure Itinerary (P&O Cruises)
Countries Explored: Australia, New Zealand
Ship
Departures
Passengers
1998
Crew
856
Launched
2017
Refurbished
2023
Cruise Code
MELMEL14.11

Overview

Begin and end your 14 day (13 night) cruise in Melbourne onboard the Pacific Explorer and enjoy exclusive savings and cruise inclusions with P&O Cruises and Global Journeys.

Cruise Itinerary

Departs: 4:00 PM

Melbourne’s vibrant character shines through its eclectic mix of architecture, culture, and green spaces. Stroll through Federation Square, where contemporary art and historic buildings collide, or explore the street art in hidden laneways like Hosier Lane. For a taste of local flavors, the Queen Victoria Market offers fresh produce and handmade goods. Don’t miss the Royal Botanic Gardens, a peaceful escape near the city’s core.

Arrives: 9:00 AM Departs: 5:00 PM

As you sail through parts of Fiordland National Park, you will appreciate how it has mesmerised and intrigued travellers and tourists over the centuries, with its graceful and mostly untouched beauty.

Ancient rainforest clings impossibly to the mountains, waterfalls tumble hundreds of meters into massive fiords and granite peaks look the same today as they did a thousand years ago. Amongst and beyond the glacier-carved fjords of Doubtful and Milford Sound, stand impressive snow-capped peaks, luscious green slopes that are home to unusual and unique species.

Arrives: 9:00 AM Departs: 6:00 PM

Dunedin offers a blend of Scottish heritage and rich wildlife. Explore the historic Larnach Castle, the only castle in New Zealand, or take a stroll through the vibrant Otago University campus. The nearby Otago Peninsula is famous for its rare yellow-eyed penguins and albatross colonies, providing nature lovers with unforgettable wildlife encounters against dramatic coastal landscapes. Ships dock at Port Chalmers, located 15 km (9 miles) from the city.

Arrives: 8:00 AM Departs: 6:00 PM

Christchurch is known as NZ's "Garden City," boasting an array of lush parks and gardens - take the opportunity to visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, where you can explore a diverse range of plant species. A short walk away, the Canterbury Museum offers fascinating exhibits on the region's natural and cultural history.

For a unique perspective, take a ride on the Christchurch Gondola, providing panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the city's innovative architecture, such as the Cardboard Cathedral, a symbol of resilience and creativity following the 2011 earthquake. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Re:Start Mall, a shopping area built from colorful shipping containers.

Port:Lyttelton

Lyttelton Cruise Port is located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Christchurch's city centre which takes around 20 minutes.

Arrives: 8:00 AM Departs: 6:00 PM

Nestled between a picturesque harbour and forest clad hills, Wellington boasts museums, galleries, boutique shopping, trendy cafés and fine restaurants.

The national museum of Te Papa is a favourite among visitors and locals alike.

Wellington's compact size makes it easy to walk around and its proximity to the ocean and native forests makes it an ideal place to enjoy nature. It's no surprise Lonely Planet labelled Wellington “the coolest little capital in the world”.

Arrives: 8:00 AM Departs: 4:00 PM

Step back in time on your visit to Napier, known as the Art Deco capital of the world. This seaside city was rebuilt in the 1930s and has one of the best concentrations of original art deco, Spanish mission and stripped classical architecture in the world. Your cruise ship will berth at the Napier Port.

Top Things to Do in Napier:

  • Hawkes Bay vineyard tours and tastings
  • a scenic off-road adventure to a gannet colony, home to 15,000 gannets
  • Art Deco vintage car and guided walking city tours

Arrives: 9:00 AM Departs: 5:00 PM

Tauranga is renowned for its stunning beaches, particularly Mount Maunganui, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or take in panoramic views from the summit. The city's waterfront area is lively, with a range of cafes, restaurants, and shops, perfect for a relaxed morning exploring. Tauranga is also a gateway to the nearby geothermal wonders of Rotorua and the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set.

Rotorua, famous for its geysers, hot springs, and Maori culture, is a must-visit for its unique geothermal landscapes and cultural performances. An hour away, Hobbiton offers an immersive experience in the world of "The Lord of the Rings," with guided tours of the iconic film set.

Arrives: 7:00 AM Departs: 3:00 PM

Known as the city of sails, Auckland is built on a narrow strip of land surrounded by two harbours, dotted with 50 picturesque islands. In the centre, the iconic Sky Tower has views of Viaduct Harbour, which is full of superyachts and lined with bars and cafes.Volcanic cones, forest parks and stunning beaches are all within easy reach. 

In downtown Auckland you can enjoy world-class dining, shopping, and sights. If you've a mind to explore, visit the island volcano of Rangitoto, or head to Waiheke, known as 'the island of wine' each are within a 40 minute ferry ride of your port.

Arrives: 10:00 AM

Melbourne’s vibrant character shines through its eclectic mix of architecture, culture, and green spaces. Stroll through Federation Square, where contemporary art and historic buildings collide, or explore the street art in hidden laneways like Hosier Lane. For a taste of local flavors, the Queen Victoria Market offers fresh produce and handmade goods. Don’t miss the Royal Botanic Gardens, a peaceful escape near the city’s core.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life Onboard Pacific Explorer

P&O's Pacific Explorer
P&O's Pacific Explorer

From waterslides to exciting new restaurants, bars and edgy stage shows, there’s more to enjoy on P&O's Pacific Explorer. Read more

Something for Everyone!
Something for Everyone!

There's something for every member of the family, with many exciting experiences included in your fare, you can try it all again, and again. Read more

Onboard Activities
Onboard Activities

Try out one of the many adventure activities, launch yourself down a waterslide or perhaps Barefoot Bowls is your cup of tea? Read more

Nightlife
Nightlife

Live music, bars and exciting and exclusive shows been especially designed for P&O Cruises. Read more

Dining
Dining

Three stylish, a la carte restaurants and nine casual eateries are included in your cruise fare. Read more

Themed Cruises
Themed Cruises

From food & wine festivals to comedy & country music, themed cruises are the perfect getaway. Read more

Pacific Explorer Reviews (19) View All Most Recent 'Pacific Explorer' Reviews

4.1
AVG. RATING 4.1 / 5
19 Reviews
5 Star
47%
4 Star
26%
3 Star
16%
2 Star
1 Star
80's Themed PO Explorer Cruise 0 , New Zealand, Sep 2024
Neither of us are likely to book a themed short weekend cruise again. This is due to these being essentially party cruises and while have nothing against these we were after something more relaxing and chill. The food at the The Pantry was, we to be honest, awful - the hot stuff almost cold and everything kind of tasted the same. The Dragon Lady was ...read more average, with the mains tasting way too similar but the starters and dessert was lovely. Loved the food at Waterfront both Breakfast and dinner - The Chefs table was great although the desserts let the finale down a little.

We did the wine tasting and High Tea - the High Tea's sandwiches were dry - Sandwich 101 is put a damp towel over them to stop them drying out before serving. We had massages which were lovely! Heidi had a facial but wasn't impressed by being called up to the spa without warning for a Dr's consultation I knew nothing about to try to sell me very expensive facial treatments without any kind of warning - wasted my time and the Dr's. The facial the next day was awesome! Suggestions - we would have preferred being able to find at least ONE quiet sunny place to just chill out outside of our cabin - even on a party cruise.
Enjoyable weekend 0 , Auckland, New Zealand, Sep 2024
Had a wonderful time on P&O Explorer, 80's theme really was a jump back in time. Thank you Global Journeys for making this possible and stress free, loved every minute of our cruise and would happily book again through Global Journeys.
Paihia in the Bay of Islands   0 , New Zealand, Aug 2024
The cruise was smooth sailing and the captain made a wise decision to not go to the intended destination ’ Picton’ in the South Island due to unfavourable weather conditions down south. We went to Paihia in the Bay of Islands instead. It was a bit of a ‘non event’ and we chose not to go ashore as we can go there anytime. I felt sorry for a couple who ...read more had driven down from their home in Paihia to Auckland to board the ship and then be taken back to Paihia. Needless to say, they too opted not to go ashore. I guess the P&O cruise experience (our first P&O trip) lived up to its reputation. Having been with different cruise lines on other cruises, it was interesting to compare the difference in the service, socioeconomic factors, food & facilities. Overall, it was okay but uninspiring and we won’t be embarking on another P&O Cruise. However, the online support and the booking service was excellent. It was wonderful being able to talk to and correspond with a real person rather than an automated computer BOT.
Amazing first taste to cruising 1 , New Zealand, Aug 2024
We absolutely loved every moment of this and already looking for our next cruise. Definetely a great experience and a first of many to come!! We were blown away by how nice all of the staff were onboard.
Picton Cruise 0 , Taranaki, New Zealand, Aug 2024
Although the weather had different ideas, our destination soon became the Bay of Islands. Even so the overall cruise was memorable and affordable. Thanks Sam and the Global Journeys team.
To our surprise not Picton, but Paihia! 0 , New Zealand, Aug 2024
Our mini-suite was great, and very spacious. Recommend it to all. Lack of information about our destination was a real let down, and P&O cruises has lost our custom because of not only this, but also really bad quality entertainment! Rachel who did our booking was great, friendly and efficient! Many thanks.

Brochure

Worldwide

P&O Worldwide (2023-25)

P&O Cruises has been taking Aussies on amazing holidays for over 90 years. Since our first departure on Strathaird back in 1932, millions of Aussies have cruised with us, so we know how Aussies LOVE to cruise. We’re Australia’s home-grown cruise line and our holidays are designed with you in mind. Welcome to cruising Australian style. Choose from a...more range of cruises, from 2 to 32 nights, departing conveniently from Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne Adelaide, Fremantle, Cairns and Auckland.

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

Latest Offer
Monday 30 Dec 2024
Sunday 12 Jan 2025
Ship Pacific Explorer
Inside
SOLD OUT
Unavailable
Oceanview
SOLD OUT
Unavailable
Balcony
$3,524
View Cabins
Suite
SOLD OUT
Unavailable
Latest Offer
Monday 30 Dec 2024
Sunday 12 Jan 2025
Ship Pacific Explorer
Inside
$1,891
View Cabins
Oceanview
$2,057
View Cabins
Balcony
$2,374
View Cabins
Suite
$3,724
View Cabins
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by P&O Cruises. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from P&O Cruises. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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