‘Grande Dame’of cruise ships call here today

Heritage Adventurer was scheduled to call back to Gisborne today after visiting here last cruise ship season (above). The 140 passengers were expected ashore for excursions during the six to seven hour stay. File picture by Liam Clayton

The ice-strengthened expedition cruise ship Heritage Adventurer was scheduled to call into Gisborne this morning as the next cab off the rank in the cruise ship season.

Built in 1991 by Rauma shipyard in Finland the ship measures 125m in length, with a beam (width) of 18 metres, and was built specifically for polar exploration.

She has held records for the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic navigations, and for traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages.

Heritage Adventurer has been described as a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree.

She has been referred to as the “grande dame” of exploration cruising due to her celebrated history and refined design.

The ship can carry up to 140 passengers.

“A fleet of 14 Zodiacs on board ensures all guests can maximise their expedition adventure,” the company’s description reads.

Heritage Adventurer was to go to anchor in Turanganui-a-Kiwa/Poverty Bay at around 11.30am this morning, departing again at 6pm tonight.

A range of tours have been organised for the passengers.