Discover Beyond, a consumer travel marketplace powered by travel technology platform, TRAVLR, in association with BBC Global News, has today announced its iconic Aurora Australis itinerary, otherwise known as the Southern Lights, aboard a luxury private jet departing from Melbourne or Christchurch from 27 March – 7 April 2022.
This is one of many unforgettable travel experiences available exclusively on the Discover Beyond platform, which includes specially curated itineraries that are directly inspired by BBC Travel Journeys Stories, as well as hundreds of activities, mix and match flights and hotels.
Chief Executive Officer for TRAVLR, Simon te Hennepe said that the Southern Lights itinerary was created for travellers who are seeking an extraordinary experience.
“Today’s traveller is looking to discover new and meaningful experiences, many of which are relatively unknown. The Southern Lights spectacle can only be seen from remote vantage points in Australia, Antarctica and New Zealand, so we curated this truly immersive itinerary by flying directly into the auroral zone itself. It is designed to be a one-of-a-kind, intimate experience which can only be described as unforgettable.”
Departing from Melbourne or Christchurch, the Southern Lights two-day itinerary includes one night’s accommodation at the luxury QT Melbourne or The George Christchurch, which includes a 3-course dinner and transfers to a private airport. There, travellers will board a private jet to embark on their expertly guided Southern Lights experience, with canapes and drinks served at their dedicated window seat before soaring above the night sky. Unlike a commercial plane, the jet flies in near-total darkness within the cabin – emitting almost no light pollution, which enhances extraordinary brightness from the stars.
This unique experience will provide travellers with unprecedented access to the remote Aurora zone during the equinox when Auroras are brightest and most frequent. Flights have been designed to depart on new moon periods to ensure travellers have the best chance at experiencing the elusive Southern skies.
Miranda Satterthwaite, renowned Academy Director for the International Antarctic Centre, is responsible for curating the tour content and will be one of the expert guides who will share the secrets of the Aurora Australis.
“Chasing the Aurora over the Southern Ocean in a jet reveals to passengers one of the most unique and spectacular light shows nature can provide. The experience is not only spiritual but intellectual as your guide enlightens you on the origins of the solar activity that cause this amazing phenomenon. Being part of such an important and engaging astrotourism opportunity is just a delight for all involved,” said Ms. Satterthwaite.
The Southern Lights experience departs from Melbourne or Christchurch and is available for a limited time only from 27 March – 7 April 2022. Corporate bookings can be organised via he***@tr****.com
To find out more, visit discoverbeyond.com.