Tropical Expedition 
No single supplement 
Superior Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
21 m²
3
- New
New Zealand's North Island & Chatham Islands
Auckland - Wellington
Dates:
09/12/2023
to
16/12/2023
days
nights on board
Succumb to the charms of an all-new expedition cruise between the northern New Zealand cities with their strong Māori traditions and the preserved nature of the Chatham Islands. You will set sail for 8 days aboard Le Soléal in search of these ancestral treasures that have forged the reputation and the charm of the North Island.
From Auckland, a dynamic city with surprising rich history, modernity and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Le Soléal will raise anchor to begin this unique journey.
Further south, Whakatane is known as one of the jewels of North Island. Here, Māori culture is felt and respected, living on through its secular traditions and legendary ancestral sites. Among other sites, you will head for the city of Rotorua, famous for its emblematic Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. This captivating geothermic experience boasts impressive volcanic valleys and geysers.
Following the warm and translucent waters of the South Pacific Ocean, Le Lapérouse will sail towards Gisborne. The first city on Earth to see the sun rise each day, it is distinguished by its enchanting environment of sandy strips and subtropical forest. Here you will learn about Māori culture and local history and will be invited to taste some of the products of this rich farming region, renowned in particular for its chardonnay.
Heading east, the Chatham Islands will appear to you, adding new breathtaking landscapes to your expedition, from isolated beaches to sheer ochre-coloured cliffs covered in verdant nature. The 80-million-years-old archipelago is comprised of 10 islands that boast various endemic species of birds and plant that you will be able to see, guided by your team of passionate expedition experts.
Your cruise will come to an end in Wellington, the New Zealand capital. This ancient site of the Māori people, as showcased at the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, perfectly combines local traditions and bustling nightlife.
Ref : SO091223
Your itinerary
An all-new expedition cruise to discover the treasures of New Zealand’s North Island and the Chatham Islands, combining ancestral tradition and breathtaking scenery. Gain an insight into the history and the...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
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
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (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
- 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
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), 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, 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 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:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
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.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- 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
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
Highlights
- An all-new expedition cruise to discover the treasures of New Zealand’s North Island and the Chatham Islands, combining ancestral tradition and breathtaking scenery.
- 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.
- The isolated Chatham Islands, 80 million years old, and home to several endemic bird species.
- Discover sublime New Zealand landscapes with exceptional diversity.
- Meet the Māori people, brave warriors with ancestral traditions and customs.
Ports of Call & Excursions
9 December 2023 - Auckland
Embarkation 09/12/2023 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 09/12/2023 at 18:00
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.
10 December 2023 - Whakatane
Arrival 10/12/2023
Departure 10/12/2023
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.
11 December 2023 - Gisborne
Arrival 11/12/2023
Departure 11/12/2023
Gisborne, called “Gizzy” by the locals and Teoneroa by the Maori, is located to the north of a large bay surrounded by fertile hills and long, wild beaches that attract walkers and surfers. At the southern end of the bay, the magnificent cliffs of Young Nick’s Head majestically keep watch over the ocean’s tides. In Ngatapa, a few kilometres north of the city, the Eastwoodhill Arboretum stretches out over more than 130 hectares (320 acres) and is home to magnificent exotic and native plants. In the city, you can learn about Maori culture and the local history at the Tairawhiti Museum or enjoy some of the products of this rich farming region, renowned in particular for its Chardonnay.
12 December 2023 - At sea
Arrival 12/12/2023
Departure 12/12/2023
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 December 2023 14 December 2023 - Chatham Islands
Arrival 13/12/2023
Departure 14/12/2023
The remote Chatham Islands are renowned for their stunning scenery, intriguing history, flora, fauna and friendly hospitality. Located 800 kilometres to the east of the South Island, the archipelago consists of about ten islands within an approximate 60-kilometre radius, the largest of which are Chatham Island and Pitt Island. The islands were first inhabited by Moriori, who named the islands 'Rekohu' – translated as 'misty skies' or 'misty sun'. European sealers and whalers were next to arrive, followed by Māori from New Zealand who named the islands 'Wharekauri'. Much of the natural character of the Chatham Islands is protected in a network of areas set aside for conservation including Mangere and Rangatira (South East Island). Rangatira has been described as one of the world's premier bird islands and is best known for the endemic black robin and the millions of storm petrels, sooty shearwaters and broad-billed prions that nest on the Island. Your ship will arrive at the Chatham Islands in the morning and will spend the day here. You will discover the unique Chathams with zodiac cruises (subject to weather conditions). In the evening the ship will set sail for the Bounty Islands.
15 December 2023 - At sea
Arrival 15/12/2023
Departure 15/12/2023
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 December 2023 - Wellington
Arrival 16/12/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 16/12/2023 at 07:00
Crowned with gentle green hills, Wellington Harbour is located in the far south of the North Island. This city offers a charming mix of traditional and modern cultures, bestowing on the New Zealand capital, a unique atmosphere, both friendly and avant-guard. Where some sites, like the large National Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, reflect the city’s Maori past, others, like the many cafés and restaurants, affirm the inhabitants’ incredible lust for life.
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 modern 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
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
No single supplement
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
GLIMPSE OF AUCKLAND AND WAIHEKE ISLAND (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
Auckland is set on 52 dormant volcanic cones and between two harbours, the sparkling Waitemata and the brooding Manukau. Known as the City of Sails, it is New Zealand’s largest and busiest city. Enjoy a brief sightseeing tour of Auckland. You will take the Tamaki Drive coastal road that runs along the Sir Michael Savage Memorial Park, and Parnell Rose Garden.
You will then be transferred to the ferry terminal and embark for a 45-minute transfer to Waiheke Island.
Arrive at Matiatia where you will be greeted on the wharf by your local guide. The tour will begin with a drive along the scenic northern route, taking in spectacular views of the Hauraki Gulf and beyond to the Coromandel Peninsula.
First stop will be at the Stonyridge Vineyard famous for its cabernet-blend. You will visit the estate followed by a tasting and lunch. You will learn more about the red wines producing on the island where microclimate is perfectly adapted to the wine culture.
After the lunch, visit Rangihoua Estate where the first olive oil in the North Island was produced. Rangihoua’s award-winning olive oils have won many accolades since the first pressings. Here you will learn how the oil is produced and taste a range of different oils, including the peppery Greek-style Koreneiki, the Spanish-style Picual, or the Tuscan-style Frantoio, as well as island blends. Also taste their local Manuka honey and herb spread. Their Waiheke Blend won a gold medal and best in class at the LA County Fair.
Leave here for a leisurely drive back to catch the ferry.
Depart Waiheke on the ferry back to the port of Auckland.
You will walk 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 room are spacious (36m²) with city view. The hotel features a restaurant, a café and a 20-metre heated pool, a sauna, a hamman 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.
- Lunch with beverages package (mineral water + 1 local beer or 1 glass of red wine + 1 coffee or 1 tea).
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Early check-in.
- 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.
- Official hotel check-in time is 2:00 p.m.
- Early check-in might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
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 : 670 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
DISCOVER WELLINGTON AND FLIGHT TO AUCKLAND (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Wellington/Auckland
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port of Wellington by our local representative.
You will set off on a scenic tour to discover the city of Wellington. You will notice a blend of traditional and modern cultures, giving the New Zealand capital its unique, convivial and avant-garde atmosphere.
You will then head for the unmissable “Te Papa” museum. This national museum recounts New Zealand’s history and culture, covering fauna and flora as well as geology. The guide will plunge you right into the heart of Maori culture.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected domestic flight.
Flight: Wellington/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.
You will be transferred to the hotel Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour 5*.
Check-in your room.
Dinner included 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 Auckland 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 room are spacious (36m²) with city view. The hotel features a restaurant, a café and a 20-metre heated pool, a sauna, a hamman 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.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The domestic flight Wellington/Auckland in economic class.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide at Wellington.
- The services of a local English-speaking local representative at Auckland airport.
Your programme does not include:
- Extra luggage allowance.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Late check-out.
- 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.
- This programme is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
- Luggage allowance: 2 checked baggage up to 23 kg/50 lb for the domestic flight Auckland-Wellington. 1 hand baggage allowance up to 7kg/15lb. The maximum dimension of your hand baggage cannot exceed 115cm (56 x 36 x 23 cm).
- Official hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
- Late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
Contact of your hotel:
Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour
21 Viaduct Harbour Ave,
Auckland, 1010, New Zealand
Phone number: +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 : 750 €
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.