On this cruise, Ponant invites you to discover New Zealand, a unique destination with a multitude of natural treasures. Set sail aboard Le Lapérouse for a 12-day cruise from Dunedin to Auckland.Departing from Dunedin, also called the Edinburgh of New Zealand, Le Lapérouse will cruise to the heart of Fiordland National Park, which is an integral part of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage area with landscapes shaped by successive glaciations. You will discover Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound and the well-known Milford Sound ? three fiords bordered by majestic cliffs. The Banks Peninsula...read more will reveal wonderful landscapes of lush hills and rugged coasts during your call in the bay of Akaroa, an ancient, flooded volcano crater. In Picton, you will discover the Marlborough region, famous for its vineyards and its submerged valleys. You will also sail to Wellington, the capital of New Zealand. This ancient site of the Maori people, as demonstrated by the Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, perfectly combines local traditions and bustling nightlife. From Tauranga, you can discover the many treasures of Rotorua: volcanoes, hot springs, geysers, rivers and gorges, and lakes that range in colour from deep blue to orange-tinged. Then your ship will cruise towards Auckland, your port of disembarkation. Surrounded by the blue waters of the Pacific, the twin islands of New Zealand are the promise of an incredible mosaic of contrasting panoramas.
Cruise Itinerary
Arrive
Depart
Day 1:Dunedin
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18:00
Day 2: Ulva Island
09:00
17:30
Day 3: Sailing Dusky Sound
06:30
12:00
Day 3: Sailing Doubtful Sound
16:30
23:00
Day 4: Sailing Milford Sound
06:00
13:00
Day 5: Cruising At Sea
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Day 6:Akaroa
06:00
16:00
Day 7:Picton
12:00
21:00
Day 8:Wellington
06:30
22:00
Day 9: Cruising At Sea
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Day 10:Gisborne
06:00
14:00
Day 11:Tauranga
09:00
19:00
Day 12:Auckland
07:00
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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
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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.