New cruise explores the harbour

CRUISE MODE: Passengers on board Fullers new 360 Harbour Discovery cruise are invited to take a look on the bridge during the cruise.

OLD TIMER: It's not just modern boats that can be seen using the harbour.

EVER PRESENT: Rangitoto Island provides the background to the calm waters of the inner Hauraki Gulf.

CRUISING PAST: The ferry stops at Devonport’s historic wharf before calling at nearby Torpedo Bay. Mt Victoria – which offers stunning views across Auckland – is in the background.

VAST VISTA: Panoramic views of the Auckland CBD skyline.

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Aucklanders can hop on board to see more of the harbour they live near.

A new cruise from Fullers' ferries is a chance to explore more of the harbour and the inner Hauraki Gulf - and in greater depth.

The 360 Harbour Discovery cruise takes in the harbour's most interesting points and includes several stops not previously included on sightseeing tours.

And cruisers can now tailor their timetables to their own pace at each destination. They can hop on and off the ferry at different locations during the day and then catch a later ferry to return to the downtown terminal.

Points of interest include the Voyager New Zealand Maritime Museum with its collection of items chronicling the country's nautical history, the Viaduct Basin America's Cup base which serves as the city's waterfront hub with its bustling restaurants and bars and the harbour bridge.

There's also historic Devonport with its art galleries, antique shops and cafes, and the Navy Museum.

Volcanic Rangitoto Island offers walking tracks and panoramic views of the Auckland region while Motuihe Island offers a quiet environment and white sand beaches.

And there's the final drop-off point at Orakei Wharf, with Kelly Tarltons and Mission Bay nearby.

A new stopping point will be added in March - at Torpedo Bay in Devonport passengers will be able to disembark and explore nearby North Head and the historic township.

The first cruise of the day leaves the Auckland ferry terminal at 10am and there are three different departure times daily from each of the ports of call.

The cruise has a bit of everything and is ideal for trampers, backpackers, explorers, laid-back shoppers, history-buffs, nature-lovers, sightseers and families.

For information see www.360discovery.co.nz.

- © Fairfax NZ News