Luxury Ponant Wildlife Cruise Expedition to Antarctica

Ross Sea & Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand

Best time to travel

Jan – Feb

Ideal length

25 Nights

Perfect for

Couples

From (incl flights)

€22,699 pp

At a glance

International flights from Dublin to Dunedin and home from Auckland.
Meet & greet on arrival in Dunedin, domestic flight and all private transfers.
4 nights’ pre and post-cruise accommodation in Dunedin and Auckland as well as 21 nights’ aboard your luxury Ponant cruise vessel.
Zodiac boating excursions past gigantic icebergs and thundering glaciers, with the opportunity to land ashore some of New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands.
Observe the largest Adelie penguin rookeries in the world, spot Weddell Seals as they relax on ice floes and visit Sir Ernest Shackleton's hut at Ross Island.

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The M/V Le Soleal, part of the world-renowned Ponant fleet.

There is a heated seawater pool on the top deck.

Settle comfortably into your seat at the theatre.

Discover a range of facial treatments, aromatic baths, exfoliation and body massage treatments designed to provide moments of complete relaxation at the onboard spa.

The library onboard has a range of books and board games.

Introduction

Follow in the footsteps of legendary polar explorers on this extraordinary journey through the seldom visited Ross Sea and the Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand. Sailing from Dunedin, this luxury three-week cruise features unforgettable excursions that will introduce you to the magnificent endemic flora, fauna and historic sites of these UNESCO-listed isles. The mighty albatross, the beloved Adélie penguin and the adorable Weddell seal are just a sprinkling of the exceptional wildlife this region has to offer. Days at sea are spent with luxurious spa treatments, fascinating lectures and panoramic glacial views. This is New Zealand like you’ve never seen it before.

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Trip Overview

Depart from Dublin to Dunedin.

You will be met by an OROKO representative and privately transferred to your historic hotel in the city centre for a two night stay. New Zealand’s oldest city, Dunedin wears its heritage with pride with a gorgeous collection of Victorian and Edwardian architecture.

Board your luxury cruise vessel.

Your home for the next three weeks, this Ponant fleet member exudes opulence with its gastronomic restaurants, panoramic lounges and plush cabins. During days at sea, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or take a dip in the swimming pool.

Discover the exceptional Campbell Island.

The most southerly of New Zealand’s subantarctic isles, Campbell is known for its unique megaherbs, large and colourful indigenous wildflowers. Explore the island with your guide, admiring its flora and rare birds including six species of albatross.

Journey across the Ross Sea.

This breathtaking southernmost sea of the world takes one full week to cross. Enjoy stopovers at its emblematic sites, among them the world’s largest colony of Adélie penguins at Cape Adare, the 4,000-year-old Drygalski Ice Tongue and Sir Ernest Shackleton’s hut on Ross Island.

Marvel at fantastical sea views.

Days without a port of call are a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the conferences and shows performed aboard your ship or to visit the vessel’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and, with luck, the beautiful marine animals that call them home.

Experience true remoteness on the Balleny Islands.

This heavily glaciated and remote series of islands have received few human visitors since their discovery. Board a Zodiac boat and discover the islands’ rich diversity of wildlife including a variety of seals, penguins and whales.

Witness amazing wildlife on Macquarie Island.

Land ashore and explore this island of outstanding natural diversity. Macquarie Island is a breeding ground for more than 3.5 million seabirds, including multiple penguin types. One-seventh of the world’s elephant seal population also call the island home.

Admire the distinctive nature of the Snares.

These are the only forested Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand that mammals have not been introduced to, not even a mouse. Explore the coastal environments of the Snares, observing Snare crested penguins, albatrosses and Sooty Shearwaters.

Drop anchor on New Zealand’s mainland.

Return to Dunedin and disembark your ship before a short flight to Auckland. Privately transfer to your city centre hotel for a two night stay. Enjoy the city’s seaside sophistication, dining at chic restaurants and exploring elegant galleries.

Transfer to the international airport for your flight home.

Arrive in Dublin.

Tailoring your holiday

OROKO Itineraries are created with you in mind and no two are the same. These can be used to help plan your trip - or we can design a completely different itinerary to suit you.

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Accommodation

Where to rest your head

Looking for the best accommodation? We've got the contacts

Fable Dunedin

Be transported back to the Victorian Era when you stay at the Fable Dunedin. Located in the heart of Dunedin, this elegant and historic hotel is elevated with contemporary touches.

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Le Soleal

The M/V Le Soleal luxury vessel is part of the world-renowned Ponant fleet, featuring luxury facilities like a spacious outdoor pool deck, wellness area, panoramic lounge and theatre.

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QT Auckland

Situated along the shimmering waters of Viaduct Harbour, QT is the perfect base to explore Auckland. Embracing its waterfront location, the hotel’s design was inspired by the harbour.

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What people are saying

I wanted to thank you and your team for arranging such an amazing holiday. It was just what I needed – so well organised, no stress and such an incredible hotel and location. It was all seamless. I look forward to my next trip!!

Jennifer – Val Thorens, 2023