Exploring Port Chambers on our P&O New Zealand Cruise
Our P&O New Zealand Cruise had been an incredible journey filled with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences. As we arrived at our last port, Port Chambers, we couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement for what the day had in store for us. Located close to Dunedin, this port offered the perfect opportunity to explore the charming town and its surroundings.
Since this was our second time in Dunedin, we decided to steer away from the typical tourist tours and instead opted for a leisurely walk around the local port of Port Chambers. We were pleasantly surprised to find that Port Chalmers, the main town nearby, was a haven for heritage attractions, charming cafes, and art galleries.
Our first stop was the Union Café, where we treated ourselves to some freshly roasted coffee. The café exuded a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot to start our exploration of Port Chalmers. Strolling through the streets, we couldn't help but admire the beautifully restored buildings from the late 1800s, which had been transformed into cafes, restaurants, and quirky shops selling vintage clothing and collectibles.
After a few hours of exploring, we made our way back to the ship, which was surprisingly quiet as most passengers were still on their shore tours. Taking advantage of the peaceful atmosphere, we indulged in the ship's pools and spas, enjoying some relaxation time before the crowds returned.
Unfortunately, our plans to visit the Doubtful Sounds and Milford Sounds were foiled by rough seas, and the captain made the decision to head back north through Cook Strait. Although we were disappointed to miss out on these stunning destinations, it gave us a reason to return to New Zealand in the future and explore them.
As we sailed through Cook Strait, the sea conditions became rough for a couple of hours, but eventually calmed down. The remaining three sea days back to Brisbane were filled with entertainment and fun. We spent much of our time in the Encounter Hotel, engaging in games of Uno, snakes and ladders, and trivia. We also had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with fellow cruisers we had met on shore excursions.
In the Marquee, the ship's theater, we were treated to some fantastic shows. "Seven," a visually stunning performance based on the Seven Deadly Sins, captivated our attention and transported us into a world of fantasy. The interactive gameshow called Perfect Match had us in fits of laughter as participants tried to match their partner's answers. It was a hilarious experience that added even more joy to our cruise.
The last night on the ship was made even more memorable with the finals of "The Voice," a thrilling adaptation of the popular TV show. The Voice of the Ocean invited talented individuals to compete in karaoke heats, with the chosen contestants progressing to the grand finale live show in the Marquee Theatre.
Our sea days were calm and the weather remained pleasant as we made our way back to Brisbane. The disembarkation process was quick and efficient, allowing us to reflect on the incredible cruise we had just experienced.
Although our plans to visit the Doubtful Sounds and Milford Sounds were dashed, our time in Port Chambers, combined with the onboard entertainment and relaxation, made this P&O New Zealand Cruise one to remember. We departed with a desire to return to New Zealand and explore the places we missed, knowing that another incredible adventure awaits us in the future.
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