Heritage Expeditions

Heritage Adventurer

Known as the 'Grande Dame of Exploration Cruising,' the Heritage Adventurer is a pioneering expedition vessel with a rich history and a purpose-built design. Built in 1991 in Finland, it holds the highest ice-class rating (1A Super) for passenger ships, making it ideal for Polar exploration.

Having set records for navigating the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic routes and traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages, the Heritage Adventurer is well-suited for Heritage Expeditions' experiential travel based in New Zealand.

Originally designed for 184 guests, it now accommodates 140 expeditioners, ensuring spacious and comfortable voyages. With a fleet of 14 Zodiacs, all guests can maximize their expedition adventure. As Heritage Expeditions' flagship, the Heritage Adventurer continues the tradition of providing exceptional and personalized expedition experiences.

Heritage Explorer

The New Zealand-built expedition yacht Heritage Explorer has joined Heritage Expedition's small ship fleet, offering unique discovery opportunities around New Zealand. With a maximum of 18 guests, the vessel provides a comfortable and personalized experience. Built in 2004 by Carey's Boatyard in Picton, Heritage Explorer features a contemporary wood-finished interior, 10 well-appointed cabins, a dining room with panoramic views, a lounge and bar, and a local library.

Equipped with kayaks and fishing gear, the yacht allows for wildlife spotting and deeper exploration with two tenders. The open bridge policy, full commercial kitchen, and a dedicated expedition team ensure a high-quality experience. 

Accommodation options include the Master Suite on the Bridge Deck, Salvin's cabins on the Lower Deck, Wandering cabins with single berths, and Buller's cabin with bunk beds—all offering private ensuites and modern amenities. Heritage Explorer promises the ultimate Kiwi adventure with a New Zealand captain and crew, showcasing local produce and providing a memorable expedition experience.

Embarking on a journey with Heritage Expeditions means embracing responsible travel. As biologists and ornithologists, they possess an intimate understanding of the challenges faced by animals, their habitats, oceans, and isolated ethnic groups.

Their commitment goes beyond awareness—they take tangible actions to contribute actively to the conservation of the places they visit. They prioritize 'buying local' and employing local communities, ensure travelers respect local customs and traditions, and handle waste disposal responsibly. It's their collective effort to travel responsibly and make a positive impact on the environments and cultures they encounter.

Heritage Expeditions actively supports conservation through responsible travel, funding, and logistical assistance for research and management efforts. Guests are offered the opportunity to take part in authentic citizen science initiatives including assisting scientists with research and the discovery of new animal species while directly supporting conservation initiatives and the remote communities visited, returning as ambassadors for these very special places.