Tropical Expedition 
No single supplement 
Deluxe Stateroom
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
- New
New Zealand's South Island & Chatham Islands
Dunedin - Wellington
Dates:
22/02/2024
to
29/02/2024
days
nights on board
Board Le Lapérouse for a brand-new 8-day expedition cruise to explore the east coast of New Zealand’s South Island, which offers wildlife and magical landscapes in one of the world’s most unspoiled environments.
From Dunedin, along the stunning Otago Peninsula, Le Lapérouse will set sail for Akaroa, formed by an ancient, flooded volcano crater. There you will experience a unique mix of Māori, French and European cultural heritage.
Heading east, the Chatham Islands will appear to you, adding new breath-taking 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.
Le Lapérouse will then proceed to the east coast of the South Island. You will sail to the rocky peninsula of Kaikoura to admire the country’s rich biodiversity.
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 with a bustling nightlife.
The wildlife encounters described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : ER220224
Your itinerary
A brand-new expedition cruise to discover the treasures of New Zealand’s South Island, from stunning panoramas to unspoiled biodiversity. Zodiac outings and shore visits with your expedition team. The...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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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
- Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi (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)
- Two 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
- A brand-new expedition cruise to discover the treasures of New Zealand’s South Island, from stunning panoramas to unspoiled biodiversity.
- Zodiac outings and shore visits with your expedition team.
- The isolated Chatham Islands, 80 million years old, and home to several endemic bird species.
- Discover the historic centre of Akaroa, a former French colony, and its picturesque bays, formed by thousand-year-old volcanoes.
- Gain an insight into the history, culture and the diversity of flora and fauna from your expert expedition team.
Ports of Call & Excursions
22 February 2024 - Dunedin
Embarkation 22/02/2024 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 22/02/2024 at 18:00
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.
23 February 2024 - Akaroa
Arrival 23/02/2024
Departure 23/02/2024
Set on the east coast of South Island, Christchurch is New Zealand's second-biggest city. You can soak up its easy-going atmosphere in one of the many parks and gardens that give Christchurch its nickname "the garden city", or dally a while in Cathedral Square to see how the city is transforming itself after the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011. Attractions such as the International Antarctic Centre and Christchurch Gondola ride are as popular as ever, while pop-up cafes, the Cardboard Cathedral and community art projects showcase the citizens' resilience. The beautiful port of Akaroa, where ships dock, is about 90-minute drive from Christchurch on the Banks Peninsula.
24 February 2024 - At sea
Arrival 24/02/2024
Departure 24/02/2024
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.
25 February 2024 26 February 2024 - Chatham Islands
Arrival 25/02/2024
Departure 26/02/2024
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.
27 February 2024 - At sea
Arrival 27/02/2024
Departure 27/02/2024
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.
28 February 2024 - Kaikoura
Arrival 28/02/2024
Departure 28/02/2024
Located on the South Island of New Zealand, the small town of Kaikōura stretches between the South Pacific and the snow-capped Kaikōura mountain chain, in the heart of a natural and preserved environment that is home to rich and varied wildlife. The peninsular has spectacular limestone formations, and many marine mammals, such as whales, dolphins, seals and sea lions, as well as sea birds can be found near its shores. Initially populated by the original Maori inhabitants for almost a thousand years, the rocky coastlines of Kaikōura then served as an observation post for whalers between the 18th century and the beginning of the 20th century.
29 February 2024 - Wellington
Arrival 29/02/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 29/02/2024 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 Lapérouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance and with five-star service.
The Blue Eye, a multisensorial underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 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
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.
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.
- Early check-in and 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.
- Official hotel check-in time is 3:00 p.m.
- Official hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
- 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).
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.