Excursion Overland experience: southern wonders: alps, lakes & fjords tour at Port Chalmers

Explore the spectacular natural beauty of New Zealand’s South Island on this unforgettable multi-day overland journey, where breathtaking landscapes and refined experiences come together in perfect harmony. Travel along the dramatic coastline to witness the iconic Moeraki Boulders, enjoy a gourmet lunch at the renowned Riverstone Kitchen, and take to the skies on a scenic flight over the Southern Alps and Aoraki / Mount Cook.

Relax amidst the serene alpine setting of Lake Tekapo before continuing to the vibrant resort town of Queenstown. Discover charming Arrowtown, cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak, and experience a once-in-a-lifetime Fly/Cruise/Fly adventure to the awe-inspiring Milford Sound. Complete your journey with a scenic escape to Glenorchy, immersive nature experiences, and an elegant winery evening in Central Otago—an exceptional blend of luxury, scenery, and unforgettable moments.

05MIDPCH-A Southern Wonders: Alps, Lakes & Fjords

Duration: 6 Days/5 Nights

Departs from: Port Chalmers (Dunedin) at approx. 8:30am

Re-join ship: Lyttelton (Christchurch) at approx. 10:00pm

Reserve by: At least 90 days prior to sailing

IMPORTANT NOTE

This Silver Shore Overland Experience requires advance booking through Silversea Reservations no later than 90 days prior to the sail date. Requests received after this date may be accommodated on a space-available basis. Tickets are available in limited quantities, and participation cannot be guaranteed for those guests not booking well in advance. A minimum number of participants is required to operate this programme. If this minimum number is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the programme at a different rate based on private arrangements, or to cancel the specific departure. Cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, 90 - 0 days prior to the initial sailing date: 100% of the programme fare per person is due.

Payment-in-full is due within 120 days prior to sailing. Booking made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by Silversea. Onboard Spending Credit may not be applied to the purchase of this programme.

All Overland Experience fares are subject to change, and not guaranteed until payment is received in full by Silversea. All Overland Experiences are non-transferable, and non-refundable, within 90 days of sailing. Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older. All Overland Experiences are owned by independent contractors, and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Overland Experiences may be modified by the operators at their sole discretion.

This Overland Experience is a small group luxury tour, providing bespoke cultural and sightseeing experiences. We limit the tour to a small group in order to ensure your experience is a high-quality one. Spots are available on a first come, first serve basis. If the program fills up, you'll be accommodated on a space-available basis.

VISA INFORMATION

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for New Zealand. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.

LOCAL CURRENCY

The local currency is New Zealand Dollar; credit cards are accepted; local ATMs are available in most locations visited.

FULL DESCRIPTION

DAY ONE – Port Chalmers / Moeraki Boulders / Riverstone Kitchen (Oamaru) / Lake Tekapo

Scenic coastal journey and the wonders of Moeraki
After disembarking the ship in Port Chalmers, meet your experienced driver-guide and begin a scenic journey along the Otago coastline. Travel north towards Koekohe Beach, where you will have the opportunity to stroll along the shore and marvel at the world-famous Moeraki Boulders.

These remarkable spherical formations, scattered across the beach, are up to two metres high and weigh several tonnes. Formed millions of years ago, they are steeped in both scientific intrigue and rich Maori legend, adding a layer of cultural significance to this natural wonder.

Gourmet flavours and charm in Oamaru
Re-board your coach and continue to Oamaru for a delightful gourmet experience at the renowned Riverstone Kitchen. Enjoy a carefully curated two-course lunch showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Following lunch, take time to explore the beautifully landscaped gardens, boutique shops, and the charming replica castle that make this stop both relaxing and memorable.

Spectacular alpine flight over Aoraki / Mount Cook
Continue inland through striking landscapes to Tekapo Airport, where you will prepare for a breathtaking scenic flight. After a safety briefing, board your aircraft and take to the skies for an unforgettable journey over the Southern Alps. Marvel at the dramatic alpine scenery, glaciers, and the majestic Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.

Arrival at Lake Tekapo
Following your flight, transfer to Lake Tekapo, renowned for its striking turquoise waters and alpine setting. Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, perfectly positioned along the lakeshore.

Overnight in alpine luxury
Check in at Peppers Bluewater Resort, where you will settle into your luxury villa accommodation. Enjoy time at leisure to relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings before gathering for a refined three-course dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Dinner and overnight accommodation at Peppers Bluewater Resort Hotel

DAY TWO – Lake Tekapo / Twizel / Arrowtown / Queenstown

A scenic journey through the Southern Alps
After breakfast and check-out, depart Lake Tekapo and begin your journey south towards Queenstown. Travel through the Mackenzie Basin, with its vast open landscapes and dramatic mountain backdrops.

Pause in Twizel for photo opportunities, where on a clear day you may enjoy stunning views towards Aoraki / Mount Cook and the surrounding peaks.

Charming Arrowtown and local flavours
Continue to the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown, renowned for its preserved heritage buildings and picturesque setting. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, followed by free time to explore boutique shops, galleries, and charming streets that reflect the region’s gold rush history.

Arrival in Queenstown and evening cruise
Arrive in Queenstown and check in at The Rees Hotel, offering elegant accommodation with spectacular lake views. After time to relax, transfer to the waterfront to board the historic steamship TSS Earnslaw.

Cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you will enjoy a memorable dinner featuring local produce, accompanied by a farm show experience.

Return to Queenstown and transfer to your hotel.

Overnight at The Rees Queenstown.

DAY THREE – Milford Sound (Fly / Cruise / Fly Experience)

An unforgettable journey to Milford Sound
After breakfast, transfer to Queenstown Airport for one of New Zealand’s most iconic experiences. Board your aircraft for a spectacular fly/cruise/fly excursion to Milford Sound.

Enjoy breathtaking aerial views over rugged mountains, glaciers, and remote valleys before landing in Milford Sound.

Cruise through pristine fjords
Board your vessel and cruise through the dramatic fjord, surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and untouched wilderness. A picnic lunch will be served onboard as you take in one of the world’s most extraordinary natural environments.

Return to Queenstown
Following the cruise, take to the skies once again for your return flight to Queenstown. Upon arrival, transfer back to your hotel and enjoy time at leisure.

Evening at leisure
In the evening, enjoy a three-course dinner at your hotel’s restaurant.
Overnight at The Rees Queenstown

DAY FOUR – Queenstown

Leisurely morning in Queenstown
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning before transferring into Queenstown’s vibrant town centre. Spend time exploring boutique shops, lakeside cafés, and galleries at your own pace.

Skyline Gondola and panoramic dining
Board the Skyline Gondola for a scenic ascent above Queenstown. At the top, take in sweeping panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.

Enjoy a buffet lunch at the Stratosfare Restaurant, renowned for its spectacular views and high-quality cuisine.

Afternoon at leisure
The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax, explore further, or enjoy optional activities. Dinner is at your own arrangement this evening.

Overnight at The Rees Queenstown.

DAY FIVE – Glenorchy & Central Otago Wine Experience

Scenic drive to Glenorchy
After breakfast, depart for a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Wakatipu towards Glenorchy, widely regarded as one of the most picturesque regions in New Zealand.

Wilderness exploration and cinematic landscapes
Experience the beauty of Glenorchy and the Dart River region, including locations famously featured in The Lord of the Rings films. This immersive nature experience showcases pristine landscapes, braided rivers, and ancient forests.

Return to Queenstown
Enjoy a relaxing café-style lunch in Glenorchy before returning to Queenstown, with scenic photo stops along the way.

Evening in wine country
In the evening, travel to Gibbston Valley in the heart of Central Otago wine region. Enjoy an elegant winery dinner paired with fine local wines in a beautiful vineyard setting.

Return to Queenstown and your hotel.

Overnight at The Rees Queenstown.

DAY SIX – Queenstown / Hobart

Departure from Queenstown
After breakfast and check-out, transfer to Queenstown Airport for your onward journey.

Fly via Melbourne to Hobart, where you will be met upon arrival and transferred to the port.

Return to the ship
Arrive at the port of Hobart and rejoin your vessel, concluding this extraordinary South Island overland experience.

Please note: This description is a general overview of the highlights of this program. The local Silversea representative will do everything possible to ensure that all of the sites described here are visited, though the tour sequence and specific sites mentioned is subject to change. Closure of some sites due to local or national holiday observances, flight schedules or other factors may affect the program, and the local operator reserves the right to substitute other sites if necessary.

This Mid-Voyage Overland Experience involves a moderate amount of off-road driving and a moderate amount of walking for approximately 1.08 miles (about 1.75 kilometres), at times over uneven, natural, and snowy surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate. This tour is not suitable for guests with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes, and bring sun protection, a weatherproof jacket, insect repellent, any necessary medication from the ship. Guests must carry their passports and ship's ID at all times. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Due to prevailing weather conditions, the tour sequence, timings, and itinerary are subject to change without prior notice. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment. Please note that the 45-minute Fix-Wing flight is weather premitting.

Programme Includes:

• Private mini coach with an experience English-speaking driver-guide.
• Overnight stay at Peppers Bluewater Resort (One Bedroom Mountian/Lake View Villa)
• One breakfasts, two lunches and one dinner, with drinks included
• All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary
• Local escort travelling when there is a minimum of 10 guests travelling together

Not Included:

Any meals and drinks not specified above, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance, and other personal items.