New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands Navigation

<p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>CELEBRATE NEW YEAR IN THE FIORLANDS</strong></p><p style="text-align:justify;"><strong>LUXURY INCLUSIONS: ZODIAC LANDINGS, BEVERAGES, FINE DINING & MORE</strong></p><p>Ponant invites you to discover the wild and untouched beauty of New Zealand's Fiordlands and Subantarctic Islands. Enjoy a 15-day expedition cruise with a bonus return flight and a pre-cruise stay before setting sail from Dunedin, the vibrant ‘Edinburgh of New Zealand.’ Explore the pristine sanctuary of Ulva Island, where expert naturalists will introduce you to some of the world's rarest bird species. Continue through the spectacular Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its majestic Milford, Doubtful, and Dusky Sounds. Sail onward to the Snares Islands and Macquarie Island, havens for penguins, seals, and seabirds. Often called the Galapagos of the Southern Ocean, these Subantarctic Islands offer breathtaking scenery, megaherb meadows, and black-sand beaches patrolled by penguins and albatross. Your unforgettable voyage concludes back in Dunedin, leaving you with memories of one of the world's most extraordinary natural regions. Secure your spot now and make this unforgettable journey part of your 2026 adventure list!</p>

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  • Package Details
  • Itinerary
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CELEBRATE NEW YEAR IN THE FIORLANDS

LUXURY INCLUSIONS: ZODIAC LANDINGS, BEVERAGES, FINE DINING & MORE

Ponant invites you to discover the wild and untouched beauty of New Zealand's Fiordlands and Subantarctic Islands. Enjoy a 15-day expedition cruise with a bonus return flight and a pre-cruise stay before setting sail from Dunedin, the vibrant 'Edinburgh of New Zealand.' Explore the pristine sanctuary of Ulva Island, where expert naturalists will introduce you to some of the world's rarest bird species. Continue through the spectacular Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its majestic Milford, Doubtful, and Dusky Sounds. Sail onward to the Snares Islands and Macquarie Island, havens for penguins, seals, and seabirds. Often called the Galapagos of the Southern Ocean, these Subantarctic Islands offer breathtaking scenery, megaherb meadows, and black-sand beaches patrolled by penguins and albatross. Your unforgettable voyage concludes back in Dunedin, leaving you with memories of one of the world's most extraordinary natural regions. Secure your spot now and make this unforgettable journey part of your 2026 adventure list!

Package Inclusions:

  • Return economy class flights from Australia* to Dunedin

    - Looking for more comfort? Ask us about upgrades to Premium Economy or Business Class.
    - Want to explore more of New Zealand? We can help you extend your stay and customise your journey.
  • Date: 27-28 December 2026

    Dunedin offers visitors a rich mix of experiences, from exploring the historic Larnach Castle and the vibrant street art trail to spotting wildlife on the Otago Peninsula and relaxing at the beautiful St Clair Beach.
  • Date: 28 December 2026 to 11 January 2027 - 14 nights Dunedin return

    Highlights:
    - New Year in the Fiordlands and the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands* to discover nature reserves: the Snares, Ulva Island and other wild corners of paradise.
    - UNESCO World Heritage Sites (including Te Wahipounamu, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound) and exceptional wildlife (crested penguins, eared seals, sea lions, elephant seals, and more).
    - Activities: outings and shore visits in a rubber dinghy with an experienced team of naturalist guides, to discover the history and incredible biodiversity of these parts.
  • EXPEDITION VOYAGE
    - Activities: All activities are supervised by the expedition team, made up of experienced naturalist guides - including Zodiac outings, for example. All activities are included and organized directly on board by the expedition team. Optional paid excursions may be offered depending on the cruise.
    - Landings: Primarily carried out by Zodiac.
    - Your experts on board: The expedition team composed of naturalist guides.

    - Fine dining in all the restaurants
    - Beverages, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea)
    - 24-hour room service
    - Butler service in some suites
    - One excursion* per person per port of call
    - Free and unlimited Wi-Fi service onboard
    - Parties, shows and other activities
    - Conferences delivered by naturalist guides and guests of honour
    - Non-motorised water sports activities, such as kayaking or stand-up paddling (diving not included)
    - Taxes for national parks and conservation areas
    - All port and security fees
  • Solo package price from $21,999 (Deluxe Stateroom)*

Itinerary

Day 1 Dunedin, New Zealand

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.

Day 2 Ulva Island, New Zealand

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.

Day 3 Dusky Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

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.

Day 3 Doubtful Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

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.

Day 4 Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

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.

Day 5 Snares Islands, Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand

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.

Day 6 Enderby Island - Auckland Islands, Subantarctica Islands of New Zealand

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.

Day 7 Enderby Island - Auckland Islands, Subantarctica Islands of New Zealand

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.

Day 8 Macquarie Island, Subantarctica Islands of New Zealand

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.

Day 9 Macquarie Island, Subantarctica Islands of New Zealand

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.

Day 10 At sea

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.

Day 11 Campbell Island, Subantarctica Islands of New Zealand

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.

Day 12 At Sea

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.

Day 13 Antipodes Islands, Subantarctica Islands of New Zealand

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.

Day 14 At Sea

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.

Day 15 Dunedin, New Zealand

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.

Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars, based on per person double occupancy unless stated otherwise, and inclusive of all taxes and discounts. All prices & itineraries are current as of 12 November 2025 & subject to change without notice. Prices are subject to change due to availability, currency fluctuations, fuel price, and tax increases. Oceanview and Balcony cabins may have obstructed views, please check with your consultant. From pricing is based on Oceanview category Superior Stateroom deck 3, Balcony category Deluxe Stateroom deck 3, Suite category Prestige Suite deck 5. Price includes any stated bonus nights, upgrades & package savings, if applicable. All passports, visas, travel permits, and vaccinations are the responsibility of the travelling passenger to secure prior to travel. Airfares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice, based in economy class from Sydney and are subject to the carriers' flight schedules and conditions. Seasonal and flight routing surcharges may apply. Airfares are based on the lowest available fare, which comes with strict conditions i.e., non-refundable, or non-changeable. Please ask your consultant for pricing on flexible fare options that allow cancellations and/or amendments at a fee. Please call us for prices from other airports. Travel packages advertised may include multiple products provided by several suppliers to provide a travel itinerary. Each component of the package will be treated independent of each other, and the specific terms & conditions of each product supplier will apply. Hotels may charge resort fees, or a security bond not included or mentioned in this package, payable direct upon check-in. Any disembarkation on the Subantarctic Islands is subject to weather conditions and on obtaining the authorisation of the local authorities. To preserve the wild environment of these islands, the number of visitors is in fact strictly controlled. Wherever possible, we will run Zodiac excursions around their shorelines in order to guarantee the best possible experience for all guests if it is not possible to disembark. Any disembarkation on the Subantarctic Islands is subject to weather conditions and on obtaining the authorisation of the local authorities. To preserve the wild environment of these islands, the number of visitors is in fact strictly controlled. Wherever possible, we will run Zodiac excursions around their shorelines in order to guarantee the best possible experience for all guests if it is not possible to disembark. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty.

New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands Navigation

Includes:
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