EXPEDITION CRUISE

Expedition to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands

All departures of this trip

CRUISE ID # PONANTSO281226

Dunedin TO Dunedin

Expedition to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands
Expedition to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands
Expedition to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands
Expedition to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands
Expedition to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands
Expedition to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands
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 a thousand 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 megaherb 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.

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
TRIP STARTS ON
December 28, 2026
SHIP SAILS ON
December 28, 2026
HOTEL NIGHTS
Pre-Cruise: 0, Post-Cruise: 0
SHIP
Le Soléal
TRIP ENDS ON
January 11, 2027
STOPS
17 Stops, 2 Countries
CRUISE NIGHTS
14
OPERATOR
PONANT EXPLORATIONS
FROM: 

$19,890

WITH SPECIAL SAVINGS APPLIED

FARES SHOWN ARE PER GUEST

Suites & Fares

CHOOSE START DATE 

: December 28, 2026

 
STEP 1: CHOOSE YOUR PREFERRED DEAL
Cruise Fare
View Suites

Itinerary

17 Ports
2 Countries

Clinging to the walls of the natural amphitheater at the west end of Otago Harbour, the South Island's second-largest city is enriched with inspiring nearby seascapes and wildlife. Because Dunedin is a university town, floods of students give the city a vitality far greater than its population of 122,000 might suggest. Its manageable size makes it easy to explore on foot—with the possible exception of Baldwin Street, the world's steepest residential street and home to the annual "gutbuster" race, in which people run up it, and the "Jaffa" race, in which people roll the namesake spherical chocolate candy down it.Dunedin, the Gaelic name for Edinburgh, was founded in 1848 by settlers of the Free Church of Scotland, a breakaway group from the Presbyterian Church. The city's Scottish roots are still visible; you'll find New Zealand's first and only (legal) whisky distillery, a statue of Scottish poet Robert Burns, and more kilts, sporrans, and gillies than you can shake a stick at! The Scottish settlers and local Māori came together in relative peace, but this wasn't true of the European whalers who were here three decades before, as places with names such as Murdering Beach illustrate.Dunedin has always had a reputation for the eccentric. Wearing no shoes and a big beard here marks a man as bohemian rather than destitute, and the residents wouldn't have it any other way. The University of Otago was the country's first university and has been drawing writers ever since its founding in 1871, most notably Janet Frame and the poet James K. Baxter. Dunedin also has a musical heritage, which blossomed into the "Dunedin Sound" of the 1970s and '80s.

Day
Two
Arrival
December 29, 2026
Port
Ulva Island, New Zealand

Despite being discovered by Cook more than 240 years ago, Dusky Sound is one of the few truly untouched destinations left on earth. Found on the southwest corner of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, Dusky Sound has the auspicious title of “titanic mason” given to it by the Maoris, as no other explanation seems to fit; it is almost impossible to comprehend the sheer breadth of geological events that created this seemingly perfect sculpture, as the sheer cliffs that rise vertically upward from the ocean dwarf the ship. This incredibly beautiful fiord offers many magical wildernesses and stunning scenery that bathe in “Lord of the Rings” grandeur. A breeding site for Fiordland Penguins, Dusky Sound is an important ornithological area too, with a wealth of birdlife to be found here. This remote, untouched region is also home to a wide range of sea life, as the fresh and salt water combine to create an extraordinary aquatic environment. An unforgettable journey for both the experienced and the uninitiated, anyone looking to visit a place unmarked by the passage of time will be spoilt its breathtaking beauty.

Day
Three
Arrival
December 30, 2026
Port
Doubtful Sound, New Zealand

New Zealand fiord country along with Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand's premier attractions. Incredibly beautiful, wild and remote, the region is an intriguing combination of rugged mountain ranges, dense rainforest, solitary alpine lakes, sparkling rivers and splashing waterfalls. Much of Fiordland is virtually unexplored wilderness and still the habitat of rare birds. As the ship cruises the beautiful Doubtful, Dusky and Milford Sounds, experience the majestic fiordland of South Island's western coast. Captain James Cook sailed along this coast in 1770 and again in 1773, when he anchored at Dusky Sound for a rest and ship repair. Doubtful Sound is one of the region's most majestic fiords. It is ten times larger than Milford Sound. As the ship cruises into Hall Arm, gaze at vertical cliffs and mighty waterfalls plunging over sheer rock faces. In fine weather, mountains and greenery are reflected in the protected waters of the fiord. Farther north lies Milford Sound. Far from any populated area, Milford Sound is famous for its grandeur and spectacular beauty. It is perhaps the best example of New Zealand's renowned classic landscape of steep granite peaks framing glacier-carved inlets with mirrored reflections on dark waters. Dominating the scene is Milford's landmark, the triangular pinnacle of Mitre Peak. Along the sheer cliffs, several waterfalls tumble more than 500 feet (154 metres) into the sheltered Sound. Only a few moored boats and a scattering of buildings at the head of the Sound break the unity of mountains, forest and water. This spectacular beauty and unspoiled setting is yours to enjoy as the ship cruises Milford Sound.

The Snares Islands, also known as ‘The Snares’ are the northernmost of New Zealand's subantarctic islands. The islands are totally uninhabited and land mammals were never introduced on the islands, so it is only inhabited by sea mammals, birds and flora. The area is among one of five subantarctic island groups forming the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands, designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Enderby Island is the second largest island in the archipelago which is brimming with a magnificent flora and fauna environment. The island has become well known for being home to the rare yellow-eyed penguin and it is further the primary breeding location for the New Zealand Sra Lion. Enjoy a guided tour of the Northern Cliffs track and if you’re lucky, spend some time observing the sea lion colony.

Musgrave Inlet in the Aukland Islands is a unique bay that boasts excellent wildlife and intriguing caves which can be explored via the Zodiac® inflatables. The Auckland Islands are the largest of the Subantarctic Islands and boast the richest flora, the largest number of subantarctic invertebrates and some of the rarest birds on earth meaning you’re sure to see some incredible wildlife during your time at Musgrave Inlet.

Day
Seven
Arrival
January 03, 2027
Port
Day at Sea

Macquarie Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its major geoconservation significance. It is the only island in the world that is entirely composed of oceanic crust and rocks from the mantel. The unique diversity of the island makes it a truly remarkable place to visit. Sand Bay is located on the east coast where you will find Royal and King Penguin rookeries as well as Southern Elephant Seals, and if the weather permits, you will have the opportunity to get closer on a Zodiac®.

Macquarie Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its major geoconservation significance. It is the only island in the world that is entirely composed of oceanic crust and rocks from the mantel. The unique diversity of the island makes it a truly remarkable place to visit. Sand Bay is located on the east coast where you will find Royal and King Penguin rookeries as well as Southern Elephant Seals, and if the weather permits, you will have the opportunity to get closer on a Zodiac®.

Day
Ten
Arrival
January 06, 2027
Port
Day at Sea

The Campbell Islands are a group of subantarctic islands in New Zealand. Known for its rich flora display, Campbell Islands are overflowing with megaherbs, herbaceous, perennial wildflowers which are recognised for their great size, colourful flowers and large leaves. The islands are furthermore home to some rare, and critically endangered birds including the Campbell Island teal and snipe. Enjoy a guided walk on the Col Lyell Saddle boardwalk and head out on the Zodiac for a unique tour around the coastline of Perseverance Harbour.

Day
Twelve
Arrival
January 08, 2027
Port
Day at Sea
Day
Thirteen
Arrival
January 09, 2027
Port
Antipodes Islands, New Zealand
Day
Fourteen
Arrival
January 10, 2027
Port
Day at Sea

Clinging to the walls of the natural amphitheater at the west end of Otago Harbour, the South Island's second-largest city is enriched with inspiring nearby seascapes and wildlife. Because Dunedin is a university town, floods of students give the city a vitality far greater than its population of 122,000 might suggest. Its manageable size makes it easy to explore on foot—with the possible exception of Baldwin Street, the world's steepest residential street and home to the annual "gutbuster" race, in which people run up it, and the "Jaffa" race, in which people roll the namesake spherical chocolate candy down it.Dunedin, the Gaelic name for Edinburgh, was founded in 1848 by settlers of the Free Church of Scotland, a breakaway group from the Presbyterian Church. The city's Scottish roots are still visible; you'll find New Zealand's first and only (legal) whisky distillery, a statue of Scottish poet Robert Burns, and more kilts, sporrans, and gillies than you can shake a stick at! The Scottish settlers and local Māori came together in relative peace, but this wasn't true of the European whalers who were here three decades before, as places with names such as Murdering Beach illustrate.Dunedin has always had a reputation for the eccentric. Wearing no shoes and a big beard here marks a man as bohemian rather than destitute, and the residents wouldn't have it any other way. The University of Otago was the country's first university and has been drawing writers ever since its founding in 1871, most notably Janet Frame and the poet James K. Baxter. Dunedin also has a musical heritage, which blossomed into the "Dunedin Sound" of the 1970s and '80s.

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About the Ship

Name

Le Soléal

Operator

PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Designed in 2013, Le Soléal combines French elegance with cutting-edge technologies to explore the world in comfort and style.

Ship Facts
cabin count
132
capacity
264
crew count
145
deck count
6
currency
EUR onboard
gross tonnage
10944
language
fr+en
launch year
2013
length
142m
speed
14kts
wheelchair count
3
width
18m

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DINING

Gastronomy

An essential component of French culture, gastronomy naturally holds a special place on board.

L'Éclipse

At the back of deck 2, our gourmet restaurant, complete with wine cellar, offers French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Le Pythéas

In a relaxed atmosphere, our grill restaurant located on deck 6 welcomes you for breakfast, buffet lunches and themed dinners.

Room Service

Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.

Entertainment

The cosy and refined atmosphere of the lounges and bars are perfect for relaxing, socialising or simply enjoying the moment – whatever your mood.

Main Lounge

Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.

The Observatory Lounge

Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.

Theatre

Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as enjoy a variety of shows, concerts and performances by professional dancers and musicians.

Music and dance

Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts or ballets at sea or on land: musical cruises and dance cruises offer privileged experiences, in small groups, alongside prestigious partners, such as Radio Classique or the Paris....

Swimming pool

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun.

The Outdoor Bar

Enjoy a drink in the 50-capacity outdoor lounge area, with a view of the sea and the pool bridge.

Boutique

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with a wide range of technical and casual ready-to-wear and equipment, with or without PONANT personalization. It also features unique souvenirs to extend the journey back home, as well as jewelry, accessories and luxury items. Opening hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

Excursion Reception and Office

If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.

PONANT Studio

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.

Health And Fitness

In partnership with SOTHYS™ and Davines®, the spa offers a wide range of treatments, massages, hairdressing services, as well as a sauna and a fitness room perfect for self-care and well-being.

Spa

Onboard our ships, in the heart of an intimate and privileged environment with the ocean as your backdrop, discover a new way to enjoy the Spa experience.

In association with SOTHYS™ Paris, we are offering you a selection of expert face and body treatments. The “savoir-faire” and expertise of our hair professional partner DAVINES® will be able to satisfy all your expectations.

The Fitness Room

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views. 

The Hairdressing Salon

Each product has been crafted using the most advanced cosmetic technologies and natural ingredients. Developed and packaged while minimising the environmental impact, Davines® products are inspired by the Sustainable Beauty ideal, an inseparable unit between Beauty and Being. During your cruise, treat your hair to a unique beauty experience. Our expert stylist will do an in-depth analysis of your hair and recommend the most appropriate treatme....

Enrichment

Marvel at the sun rising over the pristine glaciers of Spitsbergen, set out to discover the mysteries of Scotland, enjoy enriching encounters in Alaska∘ or just relax, take your time, and choose a sun kissed journey through the Mediterranean.

The trip of a lifetime, a romantic getaway or a family holiday: cruising the PONANT EXPLORATIONS way allows∘ you the freedom to organise your Odyssey∘ as a unique experience and tailor it according to your desires. Whether you have the spirit of a refined adventurer, a meditative mind or you love the great outdoors, PONANT EXPLORATIONS will fulfil all your travel desires.

Take the time to extend the pleasure of a stay in a country before boarding your yacht, get to the heart of a culture or simply have fun for a while: the guides, lecturers and travel advisers are there to assist you. Music, golf, gastronomy; from port to port, the themed cruises allow passengers∘ to live their hobby to the full - or to discover a new one.

Carefully designed itineraries, quality guest speakers, attentive service: for more than 25 years, on land and at sea, or teams and their crews have been there to help you get the most out of your cruise.

Excursions

There are many ways to see the world. But to truly discover it? Unexplored shores, authentic encounters, iconic wildlife... Our experts imagine the most beautiful travel stories for you.

Unforgettable moments

Holding your breath to better perceive that of a distant whale, stepping foot on Antarctica for the first time, watching through binoculars the passage of a polar bear in the Arctic, marvelling at the splendour of the M....

Experts By Your Side

Captains, expedition leaders, experienced naturalist guides, lecturers, wildlife photographers, personalities from the world of art, science, culture and gastronomy... Experts share their passions with you on board or on land.

Captains

Your captain is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of your journey on board. An expert in navigating polar or tropical waters, their announcements punctuate your day. And when wildlif....

USEFUL TO KNOW
Laundry

Your staterllm attendant is at your disposal to provide a laundry service. It takes 24 to 48 hours to wash and iron your clothes. Only an ironing service can be provided on the same day. Dry cleaning is not possible, so we kindly ask you to only give us clothes that can be washed with water.

** These services are chargeable and billed directly to your cabin account. 

Smoking Policy

Ships are non-smoking, even on accommodation balconies. Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas of the ship.

Power Adapters

Electrical plug adapters are provided on board, they are available at the reception.

Are the electrical outlets on board compliant with European standards?

Yes, the alternating current 220 volts 50 Hertz is distributed through outlets compliant with European standards. The electricity on board is in 220 volts AC (European standard) and 110 volts AC (North American standard). For safety reasons, the use of hair straighteners ....

Age Restrictions

Children under one (1 year old / 12 months) are not permitted on PONANT EXPLORATIONS cruises.

On Classic cruises, children are permitted from one (1 year old), with a maximum of five children aged one to six (1 to 6 years old) on board each voyage.

Children aged four years and older are welcome at the Kids’ Club when the service is offered on board.

In all cases and at all times, both on board or on land, children and young m....

Languages

The languages spoken on board are French and English. The signage is in French and English. On some cruises, crew members also speak other languages.

Wi-Fi

You have free Wi-Fi internet access on board all ships (cabins and common areas). On the Sisterships (L'Austral, Le Lyrial, The Boréal, Le Soléal), one or more computers are available to you in the leisure areas. Thanks to the Starlink network provided by Marlink, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP guarantees you quality Wi-Fi access, regardless of the location and navigation conditions.

Medical Facilities

There is a doctor on board available to the passengers on all our ships:

  • The schedules of consultation are listed each day in the log book (emergency consultation 24/7).
  • The Sisterships, PONANT Explorers and Le Commandant Charcot also have a hospital for any small surgery.
  • During the excursions, the passengers are accompanied by a doctor or a nurse.
  • There is a fee for consultations on board . The price....
Guests with reduced mobility

Only the Sisterships, the PONANT Explorers, Paul Gauguin and Le Commandant Charcot have been designed to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility.

Staterooms specially designed on board the Sisterships, decks 3 (307), 4 (407) and 5 (509) 3 c for two people aged 18. in a wheelchair, with a double bed (180 x 200) cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 shower and toilet in the bathroom as well as a balcony of 4  2 (only for cabins on the deck....

Packing Tips

Technical Accessories

We recommend that you bring a ski mask, sunglasses, walking sticks, a waterproof backpack, binoculars, a technical watch, a mosquito net for the face (in the Arctic), and a waterproof pouch. These accessories are also available for purchase at the onboard shop.

Dress Code

Dress Code

We recommend wearing casual and elegant outfits, cocktail attire for gala evenings, and white or black and white attire for the Officers' evening. Shorts and bermudas are not allowed in the evening at gourmet restaurants.

Expedition Cruise

For an expedition cruise, pack practical clothing and comfortable shoes. During your polar cruises, a polar parka in your size will be provided and boots in your si....

Special Diets

If you follow a specific diet (vegetarian, diabetic, low calorie, gluten-free, allergy...), it is essential to specify it when making your reservation. You will then receive adapted menus throughout your cruise.

Solo Travelling

Every season, we offer a wide range of cruises with 'no single supplement': you thus benefit from a double stateroom to yourself, at no extra cost. The onboard atmosphere is conducive to meeting and interacting with other guests, and the crew ensures your well-being and integration on board. Discover the cruises by consulting the single page offered.

PONANT App

Our app accompanies you in your preparations and during your stay on board. Find the services offered and the information that facilitates your journey.

Are you soon boarding with us?

Thanks to its app, PONANT accompanies you in your travel preparations, and then during your stay on board. Find our services and information that will make your cruise even easier.

Prepare your cruise with peace of mind

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Included on Every Cruise

A complete offer (excluding Spirit of PONANT and La Désirade¹)

SERVICES INCLUDED ON ALL OUR CRUISES

  • Full board from arrival to departure day
  • High-end gastronomy in all restaurants
  • All drinks in restaurants, bars and minibars. All drinks are included² (selection of champagnes, wines and spirits, beers, cocktails, water, soft drinks, hot drinks)
  • 24-hour room service
  • Butler service for certa....