Succumb to the charms of an all-new expedition cruise discovering the treasures of New Zealand, between ancestral cities with their longstanding M?ori traditions and the preserved nature and captivating landscapesof the Chatham Islands. You will set sail for 10 days aboard Le Lapérousein search of these treasures that have forged the reputation and the charm of New Zealand. From Lyttelton to Auckland, surrounded by the blue waters of the Pacific, the twin islands of New Zealand are the promise of an incredible mosaic of contrasting panoramas.
For the journey's first port of call, Le...read more Lapérouse will sail to the rocky peninsula of Kaikoura where you will have the privilege of admiring New Zealand's rich biodiversity. Heading east, the ChathamIslands 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.
On the east coast of North Island, Napier unfolds before you, revealing its treasures in a uniquearchitectural style where the sleek lines of Art Deco buildings mingle with traditional M?ori patterns. 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 M?ori 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. From Tauranga, you will be able to explore many treasures: volcanoes, hot springs, geysers, rivers and gorges, and lakes that range in colour from deep blue to orange-tinged. Sailing through the warm waters of the South Pacific, you will reach Auckland, the last port of call of this enchanting journey.
Cruise Itinerary
Arrive
Depart
Day 1: Lyttelton
--
17:00
Day 2:Kaikoura
--
--
Day 3: Cruising At Sea
--
--
Day 4: Chatham Island
--
--
Day 5: Chatham Island
--
--
Day 6: Cruising At Sea
--
--
Day 7:Napier
--
--
Day 8:Gisborne
--
--
Day 9:Tauranga
--
--
Day 10:Auckland
07:00
--
Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Transfers to and/or from the ship port may be required.
Fantastic Kimberley 1Lee and David, QLD, Australia, Aug 2023
One of the best holidays we have ever done Expensive, yes but you get what you pay for in the end This was 6* cruising at its best. The daily and at times twice daily zodiac excursions were special and led by well informed guides all of whom had professional qualifications in a relevant field.
Food was of the highest standard an the open bar well ...read more stocked to meet all tastes. Don't worry too much about formal gear, a sports coat and a colourful dress are all that is required on the two gala nights. On the other nights, slacks and polo are fine.
We helicoptered to Mitchell Falls which again was expensive but well worth it. Forget about the Horizontal Falls boat ride. Those that went were very dissatisfied as the most exciting of the two Falls is now closed due to a boating accident. I've seen more challenging wave sets in Moreton Bay. Overall 11/10 from us and very highly recommended
Brochure
Ponant Luxury Cruises (2023-24)
Discover our range of incredible luxury expeditions and yacht-style voyages in 2023, exploring Antarctica, the Norwegian Fjords, Caribbean & Latin America, The Indian Ocean & Persian Gulf and Oceania & Polynesia. Includes a range of trailblazing polar explorations aboard Le Commandant Charcot. If you are a travel agent, please email brochures.aus@ponant.com...more with your details and number of copies to be ordered.
Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details
Note Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Ponant. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.