Tasmania by ship

If you thought Heritage Expeditions' ship spent all its time in the icy depths of Antarctic waters, consider boarding for its newest voyage and spend Christmas or the New Year exploring Tasmania's South West Wilderness and National Parks.

Cruise dates are December 23 to 29 or December 30 to January 5 - both trips aboard the Polar Research vessel Akademik Shokalskiy.

Christchurch-based Heritage Expeditions describe the 71.6m ship as more akin to a private yacht than a cruise ship, catering to 38 passengers and with an atmosphere that is peaceful and warm.

Passengers are accommodated in twin share cabins, and about half the cabins have private facilities.

The vessel also has a library, bar and lounge.

Prices for the Tasmania trip start at $NZ3160 from Hobart, plus landing fees.

Contact: within New Zealand, call tollfree 0800 262 8873 or visit Heritage Expeditions.