Crystal Cruises Sets Sail for The Hobbit’s Middle Earth

In an exciting announcement for cruisers and genre fanboys alike, Crystal Cruises today unveiled an exclusive shore excursion to ‘Middle Earth,’ or perhaps ‘unearthed’ is more appropriate. Either way, the Crystal Symphony will stop at Tauranga as the access port for this so-called ‘unexpected journey’ during two Australia/New Zealand itineraries embarking December 20th and January 29th.

Following the release of the widely anticipated movie – The Hobbit – by only a few days, this shore excursion will delve into the mythical lore of the Lord of the Rings film franchise, shot in New Zealand as the scenic stand-in for the fictional ‘Middle Earth.’ Crystal Cruises describes the unique experience as follows:

“The two local cultures of New Zealand and ‘Middle Earth’ will come alive, starting with a private, after-hours, guided tour of the village movie set.  From Frodo and Bilbo Baggins’ Hobbit holes to the Brandywine Bridge, guests will enter buildings and stroll rolling hills, while learning about the massive efforts undertaken to build the site.  On the grounds of the hobbit-frequented Green Dragon Inn, with a beautiful sunset view overlooking the lake and Mill, guests will enjoy a bevy of extraordinary local wine and beer, a traditional Kiwi barbeque, and other fresh fare served by wait staff in Lord of the Rings garb.”

The Hobbit Sets Included on the Excursion (Copyright © Crystal Cruises)

“We are always looking for unique, boutique ways for our guests to immerse themselves in a world different from their own,” says Crystal’s Vice-President, Land & Port Operations, John Stoll.  “With The Hobbit opening mid-December, this is an extraordinarily timely opportunity for Crystal guests to be transported to a place that many fantasy-fiction genre fans, movie buffs, as well as wine and foodies, and off-the-beaten-path travelers, from around the globe can only dream of visiting.”

This enticing Hobbit adventure will cost $265 per person. As an additional offering, there is another Lord of the Rings-focused shore excursion available on these two cruises that visits Edoras’ home, Mt. Potts Station and Lodge, and New Zealand’s Southern Alps from Christchurch.

For more information regarding these two sailings from Crystal Cruises onboard the Crystal Symphony, visit the line’s website here.

Do these shore excursions pique your interest? Join the conversation in the comments section below…

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