Heritage Adventurer cruise ship resumes service in New Zealand‑Australia region

The expedition vessel Heritage Adventurer, launched in 1991 and formerly known as RSGS Resolute, has been refurbished and returned to operation in the sub‑Antarctic waters of New Zealand and Australia. After a turbulent history that included chartering by One Ocean Expeditions, debts to South American ports, and a 2019 collision with a Venezuelan navy ship—where its 1A Super ice‑breaker rating allowed it to cut through the warship—the ship was acquired by New Zealand‑based Heritage Expeditions in 2021. The refit reduced passenger capacity from 184 to 140 and updated crew numbers to 80 plus 20 expedition staff. Guests now check in at the Holiday Inn Remarkables in Queenstown, travel by bus to Bluff, and board the ship for itineraries that also reach remote parts of Indonesia and the Kimberley. The vessel features eight decks, observation lounges, a library, and limited pool facilities, focusing on practical design over luxury.