NZ circumnavigation for QM2

[woodscruise]

Following strong bookings for QM2’s circumnavigation of Australia next year, Cunard have announced a history-making voyage around New Zealand in March 2013.

In a first for the line, and as part of the QM2’s 104-night world voyage, the unique itinerary includes Auckland, Wellington and the Bay of Islands before sailing through Milford Sound with a special maiden visit to Christchurch.

Cruisers will have the option of a 12-night round trip voyage departing Sydney on 7 March 2013 or a 19-night Sydney to Fremantle voyage departing on the same day with prices starting at AUD $3329 per person.

Speaking to trade press yesterday, Peter Shanks, president and managing director of Cunard Line, shared his passion for the region following his voyage to New Zealand aboard QM2 in February this year.

Cunard will be sending all three Queens to New Zealand in 2013 with 11 calls currently scheduled.

“It’s clear to us from the response we’ve received for our Australian circumnavigation that Australians and New Zealanders are very keen to cruise on the legendary Queen Mary 2 in their own waters,” Mr Shanks said.

With Australians making up the majority of the expected 1800 to 2000 passengers on board the circumnavigation of Australia next year, Mr Shanks anticipates another in the future but explained the line’s desire to offer something different to cruisers in 2013.

“After cruising around Australia in 2012, we thought we would try something a little different and sail around the beautiful North and South Islands of New Zealand. New Zealand is renowned for its stunning scenery and interesting ports and we think Australians will love the chance to enjoy it all from the comfort of Queen Mary 2,” Mr Shanks said.

In anticipation of strong bookings from the Australian and New Zealand market, POLAR will be open for limited booking registrations from 8am 13 July, one day prior to the global launch.

Bookings made before 31 December 2011 will attract discounts and onboard credits in addition to the regular savings offered to past passengers.Following strong bookings for QM2’s circumnavigation of Australia next year, Cunard have announced a history-making voyage around New Zealand in March 2013.

 

Source = e-Travel Blackboard: Natalie Aroyan

[Whitemarsh]

I'd love to do this but we've got one cruise in 2012 and are planning one for 2014.

 

I like how Cunard is mixing up it's world cruises - and creating itineraries in and around Australia - New Zealand.