4.7 / 5Banks Peninsula, Christchurch, and Antarctic Center
- Experience Banks Peninsula's breathtaking vistas, Christchurch's iconic landmarks and the amazing International Antarctic Center.
- Embark on a scenic journey through Akaroa Highway with stunning views of Lakes Forsyth and Ellesmere.
- Explore Christchurch, visiting landmarks like the Bridge of Remembrance, Canterbury Museum, and the Arts Center.
- Discover the harsh realities of Antarctica at the International Antarctic Center, complete with a recreated snowstorm and intriguing exhibits.
- Simulate a scientist's journey across Antarctica with an exhilarating Hagglund ride, navigating crevasses and water like a real-life polar explorer.
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Moderate
Cruise Ship Tender PierBanks Peninsula, Christchurch, and Antarctic Center
On this excursion you will discover Banks Peninsula, the International Antarctic Center and Christchurch.
You will first depart Akaroa and embark on a scenic drive that provides stunning views of the peninsula, an ancient volcano that now forms the peninsula, and its crater that now forms the harbor. Travel via the Akaroa Highway past Lakes Forsyth and Ellesmere, a natural haven for birds and other wildlife.
Upon arrival to Christchurch and following a stop at the botanical gardens, enjoy a sightseeing tour that showcases the city landmarks: the Bridge of Remembrance, the Canterbury Museum, as well as the Art Gallery and the Arts Center. Other sights include the badly earthquake damaged Christchurch Cathedral, and the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. The city center is currently under construction with both demolition and rebuilding underway. Due to road closures and new areas re-opening, road access can change on a daily basis.
The tour then continues on to the International Antarctic Center. The center recreates the atmosphere of Antarctica with the amazing Snow and Ice Experience, featuring the world's first indoor storm complete with lightning, arctic winds and blizzard audio. Learn about life in the most inhospitable continent on earth. Find out about the explorers who conquered the harsh terrain to reach its center, the South Pole.
You will also have an opportunity to meet the Antarctic wildlife at the Blue Penguin Encounter, before buckling up for an exhilarating Hagglund ride. Traveling over a crevasse and through water, the all-terrain amphibious adventure simulates the traveling conditions scientists experience riding across the Antarctic ice pack.