Time Well Spent:
Following in the Footsteps of James Cook

Follow in the footsteps of world-famous voyager Captain James Cook, discovering many of the locations where the British explorer dropped anchor during his search for the Northwest Passage. Created in partnership with time design expert and best-selling author James Wallman, the fourth trip in our ‘Time Well Spent’ series is a thrilling adventure to some of the most beautiful parts of Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

This intrepid journey can only be completed within our 15-night timeframe by private jet, saving nearly three days of travel time compared to scheduled services by whisking you point-to-point between wild and often remote destinations. The VIP treatment continues on the ground, with luxury accommodation and exclusive experiences included throughout. As Wallman might say, that’s time well spent.

following-in-the-footsteps-of-james-cook

Days 1-3:

Explore Tasmania’s world-heritage wilderness

Soak up awe-inspiring views as your private jet touches down in Tasmania, where dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife beckon on the first leg of your adventure. Cook voyaged to this Australian island-state in 1777 and now you can explore its untamed wilderness for yourself, staying in Freycinet National Park with exclusive access to natural wonders. Meet endangered Tasmanian devils, kayak around the stunning coastline, watch a mesmerising sunset from atop Cradle Mountain and discover secluded coves on remote Bruny Island.

Your surroundings may be rugged, but the all-inclusive hospitality at ultra-luxe Saffire Freycinet is anything but. Nestled deep in the bushland with show-stopping views of Coles Bay and the jagged pink granite peaks beyond, this all-suite retreat is the perfect antidote to long days out exploring, living up to its privileged location with outstanding local cuisine and a blissful spa. Don’t leave without sampling the freshly-caught oysters and mussels at Freycinet Marine Farm – an alfresco lunch here is simply unforgettable.

Days 3-5:

Soar over Mount Cook in a helicopter

Board a private jet to New Zealand’s South Island and discover the famous Marlborough Sounds, a collection of inlets formed by ancient sunken river valleys flooded with water from the Pacific Ocean. The resulting landscape is a scenic knitting together of land and sea, with labyrinthine waterways and hidden coves giving way to forest-clad ridges dotted with pretty villages. The harbour town of Picton is your home for two nights, staying at Escape to Picton, a boutique home-away-from-home near the waterfront.

Embark on a boat cruise around the sounds, looking out for penguins, seals and dolphins as your skipper tells you all about the area’s fascinating history and rich wildlife. You’ll stop off at one of Cook’s favourite anchorages, paddling in the creek where the captain made home brew for his crew and snapping a photo by the monument commemorating his visits. A highlight of the trip is a thrilling helicopter flight to Mount Cook, taking in aerial views along the way. Trek up part of the mountain, passing alpine terrain and sprawling glaciers, before witnessing an unforgettable sunset at the top.

Days 5-6:

Experience Wellington’s culture and creativity

Now it’s back in your private jet to Wellington on the North Island’s southern coast, where Cook’s attempt to dock was thwarted by the turning tide. New Zealand’s compact capital is an eclectic destination that’s packed with things to see and do, from world-class museums to sandy beaches. Check in for a night at The Intrepid, an intimate hotel in the heart of the city, before immersing yourself in the iconic café culture, strolling down the waterfront promenade, or delving into the world of Lord of the Rings on a studio tour.

Days 6-9:

Swim with humpback whales on a Tongan cruise

Swap urban exploration for remote relaxation as you’re whisked by private jet to Tonga’s powdery beaches, pristine reefs and tropical forests. Setting sail on a private yacht cruise, you’ll spend the next few days exploring this idyllic Polynesian archipelago of over 170 tropical islands in the South Pacific, which Cook nicknamed the ‘Friendly Islands’ after the locals warmly welcomed him ashore. Many of the islands are completely deserted, so you’ll feel like an explorer discovering them for the first time.

Your cruise includes the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with humpback whales. Tonga is one of the only places on Earth where this is possible, so soak up every second as you enter the warm water for a magical encounter with these gentle giants. Spot dolphins, turtles and rays on a dive amidst sea caves and coral arches, or head ashore to discover ancient megalithic structures and blowholes shooting water 30 metres into the air.

Days 9-11:

Go canyoning through lava tunnels in Tahiti

Return to the mainland and board your private jet to Tahiti. Shaped like a figure of eight, this beguiling French Polynesian island is a natural paradise where translucent lagoons and black-sand beaches give way to a jungle-clad interior dotted with waterfalls. Two days of thrilling outdoor adventure await, from canyoning through ancient lava tunnels to speeding through the mountains in a four-wheel-drive in search of sacred archaeological sites.

InterContinental Tahiti Resort and Spa is the perfect place to recharge your batteries after all that exploring. Soothe weary muscles with a Polynesian-inspired holistic massage, visit the turtle rehabilitation centre to learn more about these fascinating sea creatures, or relax with a cocktail by one of the tranquil infinity pools. End your Tahitian escape with a sunrise hike up Mount Orohena, taking in magnificent views from the island’s highest point.

Days 11-13:

Admire the Aleutian Islands’ breathtaking natural beauty

Take off for the Aleutian Islands, a remote and ruggedly beautiful chain of volcanic islands off the coast of Alaska. You’ll land on the main island, Unalaska, for a two-night stay at The Grand Aleutian, a chalet-style retreat with dramatic mountain views. Island-hopping is on the agenda for the next two days, marvelling at sea-sculpted landscapes and glimpsing an extraordinary array of wildlife including whales, porpoises, seals, sea lions and seabirds.

Back on Unalaska, explore the bustling commercial fishing port of Dutch Harbour and sail the same route Captain Cook followed to English Bay. After dark, gather under the stars around a roaring campfire as a local tells you all about the fascinating archipelago. Between the months of August and April, you might be lucky enough to glimpse the Northern Lights, gazing in awe as the vivid colours dance across the Alaskan sky.

Days 13-15:

Snorkel with dolphins and manta rays in Hawaii

The last stop on your route is Hawaii, a Pacific Ocean paradise of sparkling turquoise seas, otherworldly lava fields and lush tropical rainforests. You’re heading to the archipelago’s namesake island, Hawaii, for a two-night stay in the lap of luxury at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. With gourmet dining, eight pools and an award-winning golf course, this exclusive oceanfront oasis on the northwest coast is the ultimate base for a relaxing escape.

Tear yourself away from the heavenly spa to pad barefoot across some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, snorkelling with acrobatic spinner dolphins in the crystal-clear waters and sailing out to sea for a sunset swim with manta rays. In a final nod to the explorer who inspired your journey, kayak along the coast to find the Captain Cook monument hidden in the forest, before boarding your private jet home with memories to last a lifetime.

Our experts at The Travel Division are waiting to curate your perfect trip. Get in touch today for more information on this itinerary or to discuss a completely bespoke trip.

Get in touch today

Our experts at The Travel Division are waiting to curate your perfect journey. Get in touch today for more information on this itinerary or to design a completely bespoke trip. Due to seasonal constraints, this itinerary is not viable year round and is best undertaken in August.

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Time Well Spent: Following in the Footsteps of James Cook