. . . aboard the National Geographic Orion

How do you go about exploring an island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean with two main landmasses and over 700 smaller islands? We could not think of a better way than a small ship cruise aboard the National Geographic Orion.

Although New Zealand Airlines provided a pleasurable overnight flight from Los Angeles, we were a little exhausted. But we were ready to begin our adventure as soon as possible. We landed in Auckland, the most populous city in New Zealand and home to the “Port of Auckland” where we will board the Orion. After a couple of sightseeing days in Auckland, the Orion will navigate interesting bays, small towns, and national parks along the East Coast of the “North Island”, then cruise through Cook Strait on the way to explore the West Coast of the “South Island”.

Continue reading →