Guest of Honour 
Polar Expedition 
Guest Speaker 
Superior Stateroom
15% Ponant Bonus
21 m2
3
Expedition to New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands
Dunedin - Dunedin
Dates:
06/01/2024
to
20/01/2024
days
nights on board
With featured guest François Garde, writer and senior French civil servant.
PONANT invites you to discover the wild and untouched beauty of New Zealand's Fiordlands and Subantarctic Islands. Set sail on a 15-day expedition cruise with an exceptional itinerary and allow yourself to be transported to another world where the wildlife rules and you are but visitors.
From Dunedin, the Edinburgh of New Zealand that is a lively student city, with a rich Scottish Heritage, you will reach Ulva Island. This first call on Paterson Inlet is renowned as an extraordinary nature sanctuary. Our team of naturalists and destination experts will be on hand to show you some of the rarest bird species in the world.
You will follow your voyage towards Fiordland National Park, which is part of Te Wähipounamu, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, home to the majestic Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound. You will enjoy a zodiac cruise and spot Fiordland crested penguins, get up close to spectacular waterfalls and enjoy the vistas from the ship's outer decks.
You will then head to the Snares islands, a haven for the country's wildlife with some 35,000 endemic Snares Gorfous and a colony of around 1,000 fur seals before discovering Macquarie Island, part of Australia.
Often described as the Galápagos of the Southern Ocean, the Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand are among some of the best preserved and protected environments on the planet, where you will experience scenery and wildlife like nowhere else on Earth. You will be captivated by the breathtaking scenery, meadows of megaherbs forming a colourful tapestry, and towering cliffs buffeted by the power of the waves and wind - the playground of the Royal Albatross. With a myriad of penguins patrolling the black sandy beaches it is truly a nature-lover’s dream come true.
Your ship will finally reach Dunedin, the end of your voyage.
Ref : SO060124
Your itinerary
With featured guest François Garde, writer and senior French civil servant. Explore the South West World Heritage Area home to majestic and spectacular Milford, Dusky and Doubtful sounds. Experience a zodiac...
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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.
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*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
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wi-Fi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
François Garde
Born in 1959, François Garde, senior civil servant fascinated by overseas territories, was high commissionner of the French austral and antartic Territory. As a trekker, he loves to leave the French Alps, where he lives near Chamonix, to hike in Iceland, in Kerguelen, in Antartic or in Greenland.
What happened of the white savage won a dozen of prizes in France, Italy and Canda, including the famous Goncourt Prize for first novels in 2012, and was published in eight languages, including English.
Novelist and travel writer, Garde has published several novels or essays, some of them (in French only) dedicated to polar areas : La baleine dans tous ses états, All about the whale (2015) Marcher à Kerguelen, Walking through Kerguelen (2018), story of a 25 days trek in remote subantartic Kerguelen island ; La position des pôles/ The position of the poles (2018) ironically subtitled little treaty of subjective geopolitics ; A perte de vue le mer gelée / As far the eye can see the frozen sea (2021), an imaginary biography of Pytheas, the very first known polar explorer, who left Marseilles to sail northbound and discover Iceland, et the time of Alexander the Great.
He published recently a book of short stories about travels and lies, A beau mentir qui vient de loin/ Beautiful lie that comes from afar (2022).
Languages spoken : french and english
Photo credit : ©Studio PONANT - Olivier BLAUD
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
François Garde
Born in 1959, François Garde, senior civil servant fascinated by overseas territories, was high commissionner of the French austral and antartic Territory. As a trekker, he loves to leave the French Alps, where he lives near Chamonix, to hike in Iceland, in Kerguelen, in Antartic or in Greenland.
What happened of the white savage won a dozen of prizes in France, Italy and Canda, including the famous Goncourt Prize for first novels in 2012, and was published in eight languages, including English.
Novelist and travel writer, Garde has published several novels or essays, some of them (in French only) dedicated to polar areas : La baleine dans tous ses états, All about the whale (2015) Marcher à Kerguelen, Walking through Kerguelen (2018), story of a 25 days trek in remote subantartic Kerguelen island ; La position des pôles/ The position of the poles (2018) ironically subtitled little treaty of subjective geopolitics ; A perte de vue le mer gelée / As far the eye can see the frozen sea (2021), an imaginary biography of Pytheas, the very first known polar explorer, who left Marseilles to sail northbound and discover Iceland, et the time of Alexander the Great.
He published recently a book of short stories about travels and lies, A beau mentir qui vient de loin/ Beautiful lie that comes from afar (2022).
Languages spoken : french and english
Photo credit : ©Studio PONANT - Olivier BLAUD
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landing"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience in remote areas: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- A PONANT polar water-resistant parka is offered on board for all departures with an expedition programme (no children sizes, in case of consecutive cruises, only one complimentary parka).
- Half calf rubber boots with non-slip soles, which will allow you to go ashore in 20 cm of cold water, keeping your feet dry for walks and visits on steep paths. Boot rental will be offered onboard (for adults only) on Expedition cruises.
- Comfortable trousers: classic Winter trousers, warm cotton tracksuit, wool leggings
- Waterproof and windproof over-trousers – MANDATORY
- Winter trousers with waterproof over trousers are the ideal combination: water-resistance and comfort of trousers are essential
- Pullover, sweat-shirt or fleece jacket
- Woollen or thermolactyl Thermal underwear
- A warm hat, woollen ear muffs or fleece ear muffs, fleece or woollen neck warmer (avoid scarves that do not stay in place)- MANDATORY
- Wool or silk glove liners, water-resistant and supple gloves
- Thick warm socks (ideally woollen)
Accessories:
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
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:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
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:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
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.
INSULATED BASE LAYER:
- Wool or thermolactyl technical underwear
- Polar or technical jacket
- Polar sweater or sweatshirt
- Silk or wool glove liners
- Wool leggings
- Warm hiking socks
WATERPROOF OUTER LAYER:
- Waterproof over-trousers - Mandatory
- Waterproof parka - Offered on board (not available in children’s sizes)
- A warm woollen hat covering your ears
- Polar or woollen neck warmer
- Waterproof technical gloves
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen
- Lip protection balm
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
ACCESSORIES:
- Highly protective sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Swimsuit (for the spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
PONANT activities
Highlights
- With featured guest François Garde, writer and senior French civil servant.
- Explore the South West World Heritage Area home to majestic and spectacular Milford, Dusky and Doubtful sounds.
- Experience a zodiac cruise in the fiords and try to spot the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Te Wāhipounamu and its majestic Milford Sound, Dusky Sound and Doubful Sound, Macquarie Island and New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands (Snares, Auckland and Campbell islands).
- View breeding populations of New Zealand, Antarctic and Subantarctic fur seals, New Zealand sea lions and Southern elephant seals.
- Explore Snares Island, home to more nesting seabirds than the entire realm of the British Isles.
- Undertake a guided walk on the predator-free sanctuary of Ulva Island (Te Wharawhara).
- Gain an insight into the history and the diversity of flora and fauna from your expert expedition team on board and while exploring by zodiac.
Ports of Call & Excursions
6 January 2024 - Dunedin
Embarkation 06/01/2024 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 06/01/2024 at 19:00
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.
7 January 2024 - Ulva Island
Arrival 07/01/2024
Departure 07/01/2024
Ulva Island (Te Wharawhara) is the largest of 20 islands within Paterson Inlet, Stewart Island, with an area of approx. 270 hectares. The island has never been logged and was declared pest free in 1997, becoming one of the few predator-free sanctuaries in New Zealand. The island is now a haven for many species of birds and plants that are rare, or have died out, on the mainland of New Zealand. Bird species regularly encountered include: the flightless Stewart Island Weka, South Island saddleback, yellowhead and Stewart Island robin. Ulva Island is not only a bird enthusiast’s paradise, it is also one of the few offshore islands with a largely undisturbed podocarp forest. Well-maintained tracks offer easy walking for most people providing a unique opportunity to see rare birds and plants at close quarters in a safe environment.
8 January 2024 - Dusky Sound
Arrival 08/01/2024
Departure 08/01/2024
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. Weather and time permitting you may explore the Sound from our fleet of zodiac.
8 January 2024 - Doubtful Sound
Arrival 08/01/2024
Departure 08/01/2024
Referred to as the "Sound of Silence", there is a secluded serenity that surrounds Doubtful Sound in contrast with the better-known Milford Sound. Both are part of the Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 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.
9 January 2024 - Milford Sound
Arrival 09/01/2024
Departure 09/01/2024
Milford Sound fiord 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.
10 January 2024 - The Snares
Arrival 10/01/2024
Departure 10/01/2024
Amongst the Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand, the Snares have the distinction of being the only forested group without introduced mammals, not even mice. Consequently, it is a remarkable haven for wildlife. The island boasts more nesting seabirds than the entire realm of the British Isles. Over 2 million Sooty Shearwaters breed here in the summer months. Four species of Albatross are listed as breeding on the Snares along with 35,000 endemic Snares crested penguins. There are also approximately 1,000 New Zealand fur seals and 500 New Zealand sea lions. Landing on the Snares is prohibited. If time and weather permit, you will have the opportunity to explore the coastal environments and view the prolific wildlife from our fleet of zodiac.
11 January 2024 - Enderby Island, Auckland Islands
Arrival 11/01/2024
Departure 11/01/2024
Enderby Island is situated off the North Eastern tip of Auckland Island and is the second largest Island in the group. The eradication of introduced species in 1994 has seen a significant increase in the abundance of the native flora and fauna compared to the main Auckland Island. It has become a stronghold for the rare yellow-eyed penguin and the primary breeding location of the New Zealand Sea Lion. You will head ashore and have the opportunity to undertake a guided walk on the Northern Cliffs track as well as spend time viewing the New Zealand Sea Lion colony. There is also the opportunity to undertake a zodiac tour around the coastline of Enderby Island in search of the Auckland Island Teal and other endemic species.
11 January 2024 - Musgrave Inlet, Auckland Islands
Arrival 11/01/2024
Departure 11/01/2024
The Auckland Islands are the largest, highest and biologically richest of the five groups of Subantarctic Islands. They have been identified as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International as they hold important seabird breeding colonies. The flora of the Auckland Islands is fascinatingly diverse with over 233 species of vascular plant. Musgrave Inlet is a picturesque bay on the eastern side of Auckland Island. Its sheer cliffs have protected the endemic flora from the introduced species, providing one of the best floral displays in the entire Island group. Landing in Musgrave Inlet is prohibited. If time and weather permits, you will have the opportunity to view the spectacular flora and fauna from our fleet of zodiacs.
12 January 2024 - At sea
Arrival 12/01/2024
Departure 12/01/2024
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.
13 January 2024 14 January 2024 - Macquarie Island
Arrival 13/01/2024
Departure 14/01/2024
Long celebrated as one of the wonder spots of the world, Macquarie Island is an island of great beauty and outstanding natural diversity, a breeding place for more than 3.5 million seabirds, most of which are penguins. There are four species breeding on Macquarie Island: Royals, Kings, Gentoos and Rock Hoppers. There are also three types of fur seals and one seventh of the world's population of elephant seals breeding on the Island. In 1948 The Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions (ANARE) established its expedition headquarters on Macquarie Island. If time and weather permit, guests will have the opportunity to land ashore and view the prolific wildlife that resides here.
15 January 2024 - At sea
Arrival 15/01/2024
Departure 15/01/2024
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.
16 January 2024 - Campbell Island
Arrival 16/01/2024
Departure 16/01/2024
Campbell Island is the most southerly of the five New Zealand subantarctic groups. Described by the English botanist Joseph Hooker as having a "flora display second to none outside the tropics." It is known for its megaherbs, herbaceous, perennial wildflowers characterised by their great size, with huge leaves and very colourful flowers, which have developed as an adaptation to the harsh weather conditions on the islands. Campbell Island is also home to six species of albatross, and several critically endangered endemic birds including the Campbell Island teal and snipe. You will have the opportunity to undertake a guided walk on the Col Lyell Saddle boardwalk as well as undertake a zodiac tour around the coastline of Perseverance Harbour.
17 January 2024 - At sea
Arrival 17/01/2024
Departure 17/01/2024
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.
18 January 2024 - Antipodes Islands
Arrival 18/01/2024
Departure 18/01/2024
The volcanic islands of the Antipodes Island group lie 860 km to the southeast of New. The group belongs to the New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands and consists of one main island, Antipodes Island, Bollons Island to the north, and numerous small islets and stacks. The islands are home to a wide variety of sea and land bird species including two species of parakeet. The seabirds range from the tiny storm petrel to the Antipodean wandering albatross, one of the largest flying birds in the world. There are also significant populations of erect-crested and rock hopper penguins. Landing on the Antipodes is prohibited. If time and weather permit, you will have the opportunity to explore the coastal environments and view the prolific wildlife from our fleet of zodiacs.
19 January 2024 - At sea
Arrival 19/01/2024
Departure 19/01/2024
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.
20 January 2024 - Dunedin
Arrival 20/01/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 20/01/2024 at 08:00
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.
Le Soléal
Like Le Boréal and L’Austral, the two sister ships that preceded it, Le Soléal further reaffirms PONANT's signature approach: to take passengers to the farthest reaches of the planet onboard five-star ships offering top-of-the-range services.
An elegant appearance and refined interior design combine with cutting-edge technology to offer a new type of cruising: adventure in a luxury setting.
Up to 264 Guests
132 staterooms & suites
145 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Polar Expedition
Realise your dream of adventure in the polar regions ! Discover the icy vastness and the fauna of Antarctica (humpback whales, seals, penguins and more) or the Arctic's fjords, glaciers and icebergs in shifting colours, not to mention the polar bears, the variety of wildlife and the special moments shared with the locals. Our team of naturalist guides share their knowledge with you during varied lectures about the fauna, the flora, the history of great explorations, geology and climatology. Thanks to its conscientiousness and to the responsible approach that is its hallmark, PONANT has been a leader and expert in cruises to these destinations for more than 20 years.
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
RELAX IN AUCKLAND AND FLIGHT TO DUNEDIN (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Auckland
Meet at Auckland airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour 5*.
Diner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Auckland/Dunedin
Enjoy time to relax before your mid-morning hotel check-out.
You will then be transferred to the airport for check-in for the domestic flight selected by PONANT.
Flight Auckland/Dunedin.
Upon arrival in Dunedin, you will be greeted by our local English-speaking representative.
You will be directly transferred to the pier to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour is ideally located between the upscale Viaduct Harbour and the attractions of the new Wynyard Quarter. It overlooks the shimmering Waitemata Harbour and offers rooms equipped with modern amenities and floor to ceiling windows spread over three floors. Superior rooms are spacious (36m²) with city view. The hotel features a restaurant, a café and a 20-metre heated pool, a sauna, a hammam and a fitness centre.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Superior room at the Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour 5* local standard (or similar), breakfast included.
- One-way flight Auckland-Dunedin in economy class, on regular airlines.
- Transfers as mentioned in the program.
- Services of a local English-speaking representative at both airports, Auckland and Dunedin.
Your programme does not include:
- Meals.
- Overweight baggage.
- Tips for the drivers and the local representatives.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your arrival flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- Baggage allowance: 2 pieces of baggage with a maximum of weight of 23kg for the regular flight Auckland-Dunedin. Hand baggage: 1 piece with a maximum weight of 7kg and the sum of three dimensions shall not exceed 115 cm (56 x 36 x 23 cm) or (22 x 14 x 9 inches).
Contacts of your hotel:
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
21 Viaduct Harbour Ave,
Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Telephone: +64 9-909 9000
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 510 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
FLIGHT FROM DUNEDIN AND RELAX IN AUCKLAND (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Dunedin/Auckland
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will be transferred to the first Botanic Garden in New Zealand, located in North of Dunedin, the second largest city in the country. You will enjoy more than 6800 species of plants on about 28-hectare ground. Depending on season, you will observe camellias, roses, daffodils and rhododendrons as well as a panoramic view.
Then you will reach the city centre to enjoy a street art trail. On the way, you will stop for taking a picture to Baldwin street, one of the steepest streets in the world.
During the guided walk around the city, you will observe many historic Victorian and Edwardian monuments. In the same time, you will discover many artworks exposed on about more 30 walls by local and international artists.
After this morning between nature and street art, you will enjoy a lunch served in a local restaurant.
You will then be transferred to the airport for check-in for the domestic flight.
Flight Dunedin/Auckland.
Upon arrival in Auckland, you will be greeted by our local representative and transferred to the hotel Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour 5*.
The end of the day is at leisure.
Dinner at the hotel.
Day 2 – Auckland
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
The Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour is ideally located between the upscale Viaduct Harbour and the attractions of the new Wynyard Quarter. It overlooks the shimmering Waitemata Harbour and offers rooms equipped with modern amenities and floor to ceiling windows spread over three floors. Superior rooms are spacious (36m²) with city view. The hotel features a restaurant, a café and a 20-metre heated pool, a sauna, a hammam and a fitness centre.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Superior room at the Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour 5* local standard (or similar), breakfast included.
- One-way flight Dunedin/Auckland in economy class, on regular airlines.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide in Dunedin.
- Services of a local English-speaking representative at Auckland airport.
Your programme does not include:
- Overweight baggage.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- Baggage allowance: 2 pieces of baggage with a maximum of weight of 23kg for the regular flight Dunedin/Auckland. Hand baggage: 1 piece with a maximum weight of 7kg and the sum of three dimensions shall not exceed 115 cm (56 x 36 x 23 cm) or (22 x 14 x 9 inches).
- The walking tour in Dunedin is not suitable for passengers in wheelchairs or those with walking difficulties as a fair amount of walking is involved.
- Dunedin is a very hilly city. Passengers are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Contact of your hotel:
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
21 Viaduct Harbour Ave,
Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Telephone: +64 9-909 9000
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : 630 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.