Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.
This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
Because it is so remote, New Zealand was one of the last places on Earth to be settled by human beings. During long centuries of isolation, these islands developed a biodiversity of animals and plants that is rare, possibly unique, in the world. Throughout this 10-day voyage, encompassing both South and North Island, focus will be on the unparalleled richness of New Zealand's flora and fauna, but there will also be ample time to discover some of the richness of the Maori culture and history that continues to thrive in this island nation.
From Lyttleton, sail first to the port of Dunedin. Experience here the spectacular natural beauty of the wilderness that surrounds the town—either by train through the Taieri Gorge, or by eight-wheel-drive vehicles through the wildlife preserve on the Otago Peninsula.
As your ship rounds the southern tip of the island, you enter the stunning, glacier-carved waterways of Fiordland National Park, a World Heritage site known for its narrow fjords, vertical cliffs, and old-growth forests. Sail into remote Dusky Sound for an up-close look at wildlife, including endemic species such as the Fiordland crested penguin. Continue north to the long and narrow Doubtful Sound, so named by Captain Cook, who questioned whether it was navigable when he arrived here in 1770. Navigate Secretary Island as well as Thompson Sound, where you will discover spectacular waterfalls along the shores.
The final day in the Fiordland is in the incomparable Milford Sound, which meanders inland between the steep slopes of the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Spend the day immersed in the sound’s natural majesty, taking in the views from on deck, spotting fur seals and a wide array of birdlife native to New Zealand.
A relaxing day at sea is followed by a call in Picton, at the northern tip of South Island, your gateway to New Zealand's famed Marlborough Wine Route. Enjoy some of the local vintages during visits to three different wineries, or if you prefer, explore the fascinating exhibits of historic aircraft at Omaka Airfield.
In Napier, the first call on North Island, you may continue discovery of New Zealand's abundant fauna at the gannet colony on Cape Kidnappers, or you may immerse yourself in Maori culture during a visit to the Hakikino ancestral lands in the village of Waimārama.
Whakatane, on the verdant shores of the Bay of Plenty, provides an opportunity to sample the world's finest kiwifruit and to visit a local farm that specializes in growing truffles. Or you can travel inland to Rotorua, a geo-thermal wonderland of geysers, bubbling mud pools, and hot springs sacred to the Maori, where you enjoy a performance of Maori dance, sample Maori cuisine, and visit a studio where young Maori women and men learn traditional skills.
The last day of the voyage is spent in Auckland, where your final experience of New Zealand may be a wilderness adventure in the rainforest, a tour of three wineries on Waiheke Island, or exploration of the Auckland Museum, home to world's largest collection of Maori art—a treasure trove of New Zealand history and culture.
Ref : LA1145US - EX070125
A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included shore excursion in each port of call. Engaging discussions...
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Included in your cruise
For more peace of mind, PONANT organizes your trip before or after the cruise. This package is included in the price of your cruise.
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
You may also like...
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
For men:
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
For men:
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
HEALTH CARE:
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Smithsonian Journeys
Smithsonian Journeys is the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education and research complex, consisting of 21 museums, the National Zoological Park, education centers, research facilities, cultural centers, and libraries. Drawing on Smithsonian's resources dating back 175 years, these sailings will feature notable experts and experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destination’s history, cuisine, language, environment, and wildlife. For more than 50 years, Smithsonian Journeys has been rooted in and focused on cultural immersion and discovery – with a goal of inspiring guests to become global citizens through travel.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Embarkation 07/01/2025 from 15:00 to 16:00
Departure 07/01/2025 at 17:00
On the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, Lyttelton (or Te Whaka Raupo in the Maori language) served, thanks to its proximity with Ross Island, as the starting point for the British expeditions in the mythical age of the South Pole explorations. It takes its name from George Lyttelton (1709-1773), aristocrat and colonial governor of South Carolina. In this colourful port town full of history, you’ll be able to discover the Time Ball: constructed in 1876, it rang at 1.00 pm every day for 58 consecutive years to give Greenwich meridian time, enabling ship captains to set their chronometer and very precisely calculate their position.
Arrival 08/01/2025 mid morning
Departure 08/01/2025 late afternoon
Dunedin is New Zealand's oldest city and is often referred to as the Edinburgh of New Zealand. This city of the south, wears its Scottish heritage with pride. The city contains some of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. The Silverpeaks hinterland to the North West provides a picturesque backdrop and The Otago Peninsula, which lies within the city boundaries, has internationally renowned wildlife reserves, including the only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross.
Arrival 09/01/2025
Departure 09/01/2025
Dusky Sound is one of the most isolated fjords in Fiordland National Park. This huge, protected natural zone situated in the south-west quarter of New Zealand’s South Island is listed as UNESCO World Heritage. The sheer cliffs, waterfalls, shimmering lakes and primitive forests here are each more beautiful than the next. These spectacular landscapes sculpted by successive glaciations are a source of endless wonder. In 1773, the British navigator James Cook spent a few weeks at Dusky Sound, as demonstrated by a plaque that can be seen at Astronomer’s Point. During your sailing, observe the richness of the local wildlife: cormorants, seagulls, New Zealand fur seals, but also Fiordland crested penguins, a rare and endemic species.
Arrival 09/01/2025
Departure 09/01/2025
Referred to as the Sound of Silence, there is a secluded serenity that surrounds Doubtful Sound in contrast with the better-known Milford Sound. Lieutenant James Cook named 'Doubtful Harbour' in 1770 as he was uncertain if it was navigable under sail. Doubtful Sound is the deepest of the fiords with a maximum depth of 421 m. It contains three distinct 'arms' and several outstanding waterfalls in the area from Deep Cove to the open ocean. Your ship will spend time navigating around Secretary Island through both Thompson and Doubtful Sounds. You will enjoy the spectacular scenery from the outer decks.
Arrival 10/01/2025
Departure 10/01/2025
Milford Sound fjord is among one of the most beautiful natural sites in New Zealand. So much beauty will quite simply take your breath away. Located on the south-west coast of South Island, in the Fiorldland National Park, this sumptuous inlet carved out by glaciers advances over at least 15 kilometres inland, in the Southern Alps. Majestic cliffs seem to surge out of the dark waters, rising several hundred metres high: an abrupt relief from where impressive waterfalls cascade.
Arrival 11/01/2025
Departure 11/01/2025
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Arrival 12/01/2025 early morning
Departure 12/01/2025 midday
A must-see entry point to the South Island, Picton is a little coastal town girded by gentle hills, located on the south side of the Queen Charlotte inlet. The cafés and restaurants which border the charming waterfront give a very lovely view of the fjord. You can also decide to get some height above sea level, and walk in the surrounding areas. However, Picton is above all an opportunity to explore the unique Marlborough Sounds. This interweaving of submerged valleys in this area, has creating numerous navigable routes, wich are among the most beautiful natural wonders of New Zealand.
Arrival 13/01/2025 early morning
Departure 13/01/2025 early afternoon
On the east coast of the North Island, south of Hawke’s Bay, you’ll find Napier. Mostly destroyed by an earthquake in 1931, reviving from its ashes in less than two years, it grew into a magnificent Art Deco style city, very in-vogue at the time. With its pure lines mixed with traditional Maori designs, the singular New Zealand character of this city will intrigue you. You’ll discover all this extraordinary architectural heritage as you take a stroll through the city. Famous for its vineyards, wine lovers will be able to taste some of the best wines from the region.
Arrival 14/01/2025 late morning
Departure 14/01/2025 evening
Lying to the east of Tauranga, Whakatane stretches the entire length of the Bay of Plenty, protected by the outlying Matakana Island. Discovered in 1769 by James Cook, the Bay of Plenty is one of the jewels of the North Island. You can also reach the town of Rotorua and the unmissable thermal wonderland of Wai-O-Tapu, combining volcanic valleys and geysers for an exceptional geothermic experience. Boasting a strong Maori culture, Whakatane will not fail to surprise you with its history and its authenticity.
Arrival 15/01/2025 late morning
Disembarkation 16/01/2025 at 08:00
Auckland is New Zealand’s largest, most populated and busiest city. Located on an isthmus linking the peninsula of Northland to the expansive North Island, it seems to float between land and sea. It is one of the few cities in the world to have two separate harbours : Manukau Harbour on the Tasman Sea and Waitemata Harbour on the Pacific Ocean. You will understand why Auckland is known as "the City of Sails" when you see the forest of masts in the marina. The 328 metre-high Sky Tower offers splendid views of the city. Surrounded by dormant volcanoes such as Mt Eden, Auckland is noted for its abundant nature and magnificent black-sand beaches. A blend of Maori, European and Asian cultures give the city a vibrant atmosphere.
PONANT has organized the following included program for you, which starts the day of embarkation.
Included Features:
Not included:
Notes:
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Seize the opportunity of this five-day pre-cruise program to see aspects of New Zealand's stunning South Island that are not accessible from the sea: the wine country surrounding Queenstown; the lakes, rivers, and waterfalls of the wilderness regions of Makarora and Mount Aspiring National Park; and the landscapes and glaciers of the Southern Alps. The variety of experiences is remarkable, as you discover all of this on scenic drives, from the decks of a historic steamship, aboard a helicopter, and gazing through the panoramic windows of an iconic luxury train.
Day 1 – Queenstown
On arrival at Queenstown International Airport, you will be met and transferred to the QT Queenstown Hotel, a 5-star boutique hotel with views over Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountains. Settle into your room and relax until dinner time, when you meet you guide and fellow travelers for a short walk to the Skyline Gondola and a trip to the hilltop for a welcome buffet dinner at the Stratosfare Restaurant.
Day 2 – Queenstown
After breakfast at the hotel, set off to explore the Queenstown wineries. Drive through beautiful Gibbstown Valley to reach Gibbstown Valley Winery, the region's oldest vineyard and home to the largest wine cave in New Zealand, where you will enjoy tastings of its current releases. Then it's on to sample the wines of Mount Edward Winery at the Church Cellar Door, housed in an old Presbyterian Church. The last stop on this morning's tour is at Kinross, a collective of five boutique wineries, where you will enjoy your final tasting along with lunch. Return to the hotel for a bit of relaxation and to freshen up before you sail across Lake Wakatipu aboard a vintage steamship to enjoy a quintessential Kiwi BBQ at historic Walter Peak Hight Country Farm.
Day 3 – Queenstown | Franz Josef
Today is a day of travel through some of the most scenic country to be found anywhere, as you make your way from Queenstown to Franz Josef. Drive through mountains and along the shores of lakes and rivers to reach Makarora, a wilderness region within the World Heritage preserve of Mount Aspiring National Park. Here, a jet boat ride on the river is followed by lunch at the Makarora Country Café. Your drive turns westward in the afternoon, as you follow the path of the Haast River through dense rainforest and past cascading waterfalls, stopping at a salmon farm for afternoon tea along the way. You reach Franz Josef in late afternoon and check in to the Te Waonui Forest Retreat for overnight. Dinner is at the hotel.
Day 4 - Franz Josef | Christchurch
This morning begins with a helicopter ride to the top of Franz Josef Glacier for panoramic views across the Southern Alps. On your return to town, exploration of New Zealand's South Island continues with a drive along its picturesque west coast, across rivers that empty into the Tasman Sea, and through small communities that dot the shoreline. Pause for lunch in one of these towns and visit a pounamu factory before continuing up the coast to Greymouth. Here you board the iconic Transalpine Train for an unforgettable journey from the west coast, over the Southern Alps, through Arthur's Pass and onto the Canterbury plains. Dinner is served on the train. On arrival in Christchurch, transfer to the Hotel Fable for overnight.
Day 5 - Christchurch | Embarkation
After breakfast at the hotel, a tour of New Zealand's "Garden City" includes the world-renowned Botanic Gardens, the Christchurch Art Gallery, and the iconic Christchurch Cathedral, which was heavily damaged in the earthquake of 2011. Also visit the Quake City Museum, which chronicles the city's recent history of devastating seismic activity in interactive exhibits aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of earthquakes and the necessity of preparedness. Following lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to the pier in Lyttleton to board Le Jacques-Cartier and set sail.
Your hotels:
The QT Queenstown is a 5-star boutique hotel on the city, overlooking Lake Wakatipu, with views of the surrounding mountains. Its Bazaar Restaurant serves international cuisine using local produce, and its Reds Bar is known for 'Remarkable' drinks. All rooms are equipped with the amenities you would expect in a luxury hotel. On site swimming pool and sauna.
Te Waonui Forest Retreat in Franz Josef is a luxury property built to serve as an example of eco-friendly sustainable accommodations, preserving a piece of the native rainforest in the center of the property itself. Two restaurants offer the choice of casual or formal dining. All rooms are equipped with the expected amenities, and a day spa complements the comfort of the rooms.
Fable Christchurch hotel is located in the center of the city, within easy walking distance of Cathedral Square and other landmarks and attractions. A 5-star boutique property, it features luxurious rooms and suites, an award-winning restaurant and bar, gym and sauna.
Your program includes:
Your program does not include:
Please note:
Hotel contact information:
QT Queenstown
30 Brunswick Street
Queenstown 9300
New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 450 3450
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
3 Wallace Street
Franz Josef
Westland, 7886
New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 752 0555
Fable Christchurch
166 Gloucester Street
Christchurch Central City
New Zealand
Phone: +64 3 477 1145
Total : £2,910
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.This post cruise program on the North Island offers a view of an entirely different New Zealand—one of rolling hills and green pastures, of dairy farms and berry orchards. As you drive from Auckland to Wellington, roughly the distance from New York to Cleveland, you will enjoy the pastoral world of New Zealand farming, witness the geothermal fields around Rotorua, and participate in some of the cultural traditions of the indigenous Maori. This post-trip extension is a perfect land-based complement to what awaits you aboard your ship.
Day 1 – Auckland| Rotorua
After breakfast aboard, disembark the ship and board a luxury coach to begin your drive southward to Rotorua. After about two hours of travel through scenic rolling green hills and dense forests, pause for a tour of a working dairy farm, one of New Zealand's most important industries, and enjoy a typical country-style lunch of local produce. Following lunch, continue to Rotorua, a "Thermal Wonderland" of geysers, bubbling mud pools, and soothing hot springs, where you explore Waimangu Volcanic Valley, home to the intriguing Inferno Crater which rises and falls as it heats and cools.
Check-in to the Pullman Rotorua Hotel in late afternoon and prepare for the evening's activity: a Maori cultural experience in the ancient forest village at Tawa-ngahere-pa. The evening will include a traditional welcome ceremony, an immersive guided tour through a historic Maori Village, stunning cultural performances, and a feast cooked in a traditional Maori hangi (earth oven), a centuries-old cooking method perfect for feeding a group and bringing a community together.
Day 2 – Rotorua | New Plymouth
Today, your coach heads toward the west coast of North Island, stopping about mid-morning at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Here, a boat specially designed for the purpose will take you deep into the caves where tiny worms, unique to New Zealand, radiate a fluorescent blue-green glow that illuminates the caves and underground streams that are their home.
A short drive brings you to nearby Crosshills Homestead, where the owners will serve a lunch made entirely on the premises from produce grown on local farms, including their own. After lunch and a stop for dessert at a berry orchard, drive through the Taranaki region of the country to the coastal city of New Plymouth, where you check-in to the Novotel New Plymouth hotel in late afternoon. The balance of the day is at leisure for you to explore New Plymouth's waterfront and enjoy dinner on your own.
Day 3 - New Plymouth | Wellington
Breakfast is followed by a walk across the street to the permanent exhibit of the works of Len Lye in the Govett-Brewster Gallery, where one of the gallery's curators will introduce you to the work of this famed New Zealand artist. After the gallery tour, board your coach for the drive to Whanganui, pausing along the way at Pukekura park and at Parihaka, where the early Taranaki Maori Wars took place. In Whanganui, explore the Museum, famous for its Taonga Maori Collection, and enjoy lunch.
Continue your drive to Paekakariki, where a guide will lead you on a tour of the wetlands and Kahikatea remnant forest of Queen Elizabeth Park, before a stroll along the beach. A final 45-minute drive along the coast overlooking the Cook Strait ends in Wellington, where you check in to the Sofitel for the next two nights. The evening is at leisure.
Day 4 - Wellington |
After breakfast at the hotel set off on a 'foodie' tour of Wellington, during which you visit a craft brewery, sample good coffee and the best chocolates available in New Zealand's capital city. The afternoon is at leisure to explore the city. You may wish to explore the Te Papa Tongarewa (NZ National Museum), Wellington Cable car, Botanic Gardens, Parliament Buildings, and more. In the evening, join the group for a farewell dinner at one of Wellington’s iconic dining establishments featuring local New Zealand flavors.
Day 5 - Wellington | Homeward
After breakfast at the hotel, check out of the hotel and depart for the airport for flights home.
Your hotels:
The Pullman Rotorua Hotel, a 5-star property, is located in the center of the city. With 130 rooms, a gym, restaurant and bar, it is the perfect base for exploring the geothermal phenomena of the region.
Novotel in New Plymouth is a 4-star hotel in the center of the city. It is adjacent to the Len Lye Gallery and within a stone's throw of the city's finest restaurants, bars, cafes, and retail spots.
The Sofitel Wellington, located in the Parliament precinct of the capital city, is a 5-star hotel with an award-winning restaurant and La Serre Bar. Its luxury rooms and suites feature Sofitel MyBed and modern bathrooms with refined French amenities.
Your program includes:
Your program does not include:
Please note:
Hotel contact information:
Pullman Rotorua
1135 Arawa Street
Rotorua 3010
New Zealand
+ 64 7 343 9750
Novotel New Plymouth
Corner of Hobson and Leach Streets
New Plymouth 4312
New Zealand
+ 64 6 769 9579
Sofitel Wellington
11 Bolton Street
Wellington Central
Wellington 6011
New Zealand
+ 64 4 472 2001
Total : £2,490
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.