Antarctica
East Antártica
Antarctica
Antarctica
Set sail on a thrilling expedition from New Zealand to the Ross Sea. Follow in the footsteps of legendary polar explorers Scott and Shackleton, exploring an extreme environment filled with glaciers, eternal ice, and massive penguin colonies.
Duration: 22 days / 21 nights on board.
Starts: Timaru, New Zealand
Ends: Timaru, New Zealand
Language: French speaking voyage with English-speaking assistance
The itinerary is a guide only and is subject to change due to weather and ice conditions. Your Captain and Expedition Leader will make the necessary adjustments to ensure the best possible experience.
The official currency of the country is the New Zealand dollar. Many purchases can also be paid for in US dollars (small denominations are recommended) or by credit card, which is accepted in most shops. New Zealand dollars can also be withdrawn from ATMs.
Summer season in Timaru/Christchurch (between November and February): Temperatures can vary considerably but are generally between 20°C and 25°C.
Coach or Van tours More info about this activity
Coach, Bus or Van excursions with specialized guides or just as a means of transportation from one point to the next.
Ship Cruise More info about this activity
Not only we travel from one point to another and find our shelter on board the ship we chose. We also enjoy from incredible scenery, landscapes and interactions that only our noble vessel can provide.
Everyday the Bridge Team navigates the ship to position ourselves on the best posible spots, looking for unique opportunities.
Many times, this includes sainig through narrow passages, on the vicinity of glaciers or entering bays and fjords only approachable from the ship.
Enjoy this incredible places from the comfort of the common areas on board, open decks or your own private balcony!
Shore Excursion More info about this activity
Shore excursions are the backbone of almost all itineraries, with most ships making landfall at least once every day once they reach their destination. The weather plays a huge role in your daily itinerary, although given the sheer array of fantastic landing sites all over there are plenty of options your Captain and Expedition Leader can choose from. On-shore excursions allow you to visit scientific research stations, communities, prominent wildlife colonies and take hikes to elevated viewing points for fantastic photography.
Zodiac cruising More info about this activity
On board the Zodiac you will discover a world of possibilities; accessing the most exclusive landing sites, cruising the coast in search of wildlife or simply enjoying a tour in the calm of the polar regions in search of marine wildlife or bird colonies.
The blue ice an its intimate presence is experienced at its best on zodiac tours.
It is not uncommon to meet curious seals, or humpback whales feeding.
Enrichment Program More info about this activity
Expedition cruising must be one of the most incredible ways of travelling. Not only for the amazing places you visit and the unforgetable wildlife but for the wildlife, the sensory overload and the unimaginable memories.
But all of this needs a context in order to understand where you are and what you are experiencing.
On board your expedition vessell you will find a group of experts, naturalists, zodiac drivers and guides that that will translate the language of nature for you, telling you the stories of the places you are visiting, reviewing the historical, biological, ecological and geological aspects of your trips.
You will experience first hand what surrounds you and arrive back home wiser and loaded with new knowledge.
Hiking More info about this activity
Hiking options include very easy beach hikes (good for photographers who need time for photography), easier short hikes, medium-difficulty extended hikes, and more challenging long hikes.
Set sail in the wake of the great polar explorers to experience a thrilling adventure from New Zealand to the Ross Sea, one of Antarctica’s best-preserved regions. Spectacular wildlife and plant life await you in one of the planet's most extreme environments. In this world where everything seems more intense, observe some of Antarctica’s largest colonies of Adelie penguins, as well as many other penguin species. Sail among monumental icebergs and be captivated by the dramatic cracking of calving glaciers, while Weddell seals bask on the pack ice, not far from the orcas.
We are privileged guests in these remote lands where we are at the mercy of weather, ice, tidal and current conditions. Zodiac excursions around their shorelines and landings guided by an experienced team of naturalist guides will allow you to discover the history and incredible biodiversity of these parts. Explore the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands (UNESCO World Heritage) and recall the heroic polar expeditions undertaken by some of the world’s most courageous explorers in a truly insurmountable setting.
Highlights:
Explore an extreme and unspoilt region of Antarctica, between the Southern Ocean and the Ross Sea.
Visit the New Zealand Subantarctic Islands, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Observe exceptional wildlife, including massive Adélie penguin colonies, Weddell seals, and cetaceans.
Outings and shore visits in rubber dinghies (Zodiacs) with an experienced team of naturalist guides.
Visits to iconic historical sites, including Sir Ernest Shackleton's hut at Cape Royds.
Day 1: Timaru
Boarding in Canterbury
Located at the southern end of the Canterbury Plains, Timaru is the region’s second-largest city. The area features examples of Māori rock art and a rich history linked to whaling and Victorian architecture. Boarding in the afternoon and introduction to the expedition team before setting sail.
Days 2–6: At sea
Sailing south
Make the most of the voyage to enjoy the ship’s facilities, such as the spa, fitness centre or swimming pool. Attend educational lectures on board to learn about Antarctic ecology and history, or enjoy the upper deck whilst gazing out at the ocean and spotting marine life.
Days 7–13: Ross Sea region
Exploration of the southern marine sanctuary
Exploring the world’s southernmost sea, surrounded by the Ross Ice Shelf. Conditions permitting, we’ll visit Cape Adare (home to the largest colony of Adélie penguins), Terra Nova Bay, the Drygalski Ice Tongue and Inexpressible Island. On Ross Island, we’ll discover Sir Ernest Shackleton’s historic hut at Cape Royds and observe local wildlife such as Weddell seals and orcas.
Days 14–16: At sea
Ocean crossing
Days of rest and learning on board as we sail back towards the sub-Antarctic islands. Time to review photographs, relax in the ship’s communal areas and take part in talks given by the naturalist guides.
Day 17: Macquarie Island
A natural wonder of biodiversity
A visit to this island, renowned for its extraordinary natural diversity, where more than 3.5 million seabirds breed, including king, gentoo and rockhopper penguins, as well as several species of seals and elephant seals. Weather permitting, we’ll go ashore to observe the wildlife.
Day 18: At sea
Crossing the Southern Ocean
A day at sea dedicated to on-board entertainment, relaxation and admiring the seascape from the outdoor decks.
Day 19: Enderby Island, Auckland Islands
Sanctuary for native flora and fauna
Located north-east of Auckland Island, this is a crucial refuge for the rare yellow-eyed penguin and the main breeding ground for the New Zealand sea lion. We’ll take a guided walk along the northern cliffs trail and a Zodiac excursion to explore the coastline.
Day 20: The Snares
Untamed island sanctuary
A group of sub-Antarctic islands characterised by the absence of introduced mammals. It is home to millions of seabirds that nest here, including Snares penguins, albatrosses and petrels, as well as sea lions. As landings are prohibited, we will explore the coastline by Zodiac.
Day 21: At sea
Final day at sea
Final day at sea to enjoy the ship’s facilities, look back on the highlights of the expedition with the naturalist team and prepare for disembarkation.
Day 22: Timaru
Disembarkation and end of the expedition
Morning arrival at the port of Timaru. After breakfast, disembarkation and transfer to Christchurch, bringing this unforgettable Antarctic voyage to a close.
Day 1: Timaru
Boarding in Canterbury
Located at the southern end of the Canterbury Plains, Timaru is the region’s second-largest city. The area features examples of Māori rock art and a rich history linked to whaling and Victorian architecture. Boarding in the afternoon and introduction to the expedition team before setting sail.
Days 2–6: At sea
Sailing south
Make the most of the voyage to enjoy the ship’s facilities, such as the spa, fitness centre or swimming pool. Attend educational lectures on board to learn about Antarctic ecology and history, or enjoy the upper deck whilst gazing out at the ocean and spotting marine life.
Days 7–13: Ross Sea region
Exploration of the southern marine sanctuary
Exploring the world’s southernmost sea, surrounded by the Ross Ice Shelf. Conditions permitting, we’ll visit Cape Adare (home to the largest colony of Adélie penguins), Terra Nova Bay, the Drygalski Ice Tongue and Inexpressible Island. On Ross Island, we’ll discover Sir Ernest Shackleton’s historic hut at Cape Royds and observe local wildlife such as Weddell seals and orcas.
Days 14–16: At sea
Ocean crossing
Days of rest and learning on board as we sail back towards the sub-Antarctic islands. Time to review photographs, relax in the ship’s communal areas and take part in talks given by the naturalist guides.
Day 17: Macquarie Island
A natural wonder of biodiversity
A visit to this island, renowned for its extraordinary natural diversity, where more than 3.5 million seabirds breed, including king, gentoo and rockhopper penguins, as well as several species of seals and elephant seals. Weather permitting, we’ll go ashore to observe the wildlife.
Day 18: At sea
Crossing the Southern Ocean
A day at sea dedicated to on-board entertainment, relaxation and admiring the seascape from the outdoor decks.
Day 19: Enderby Island, Auckland Islands
Sanctuary for native flora and fauna
Located north-east of Auckland Island, this is a crucial refuge for the rare yellow-eyed penguin and the main breeding ground for the New Zealand sea lion. We’ll take a guided walk along the northern cliffs trail and a Zodiac excursion to explore the coastline.
Day 20: The Snares
Untamed island sanctuary
A group of sub-Antarctic islands characterised by the absence of introduced mammals. It is home to millions of seabirds that nest here, including Snares penguins, albatrosses and petrels, as well as sea lions. As landings are prohibited, we will explore the coastline by Zodiac.
Day 21: At sea
Final day at sea
Final day at sea to enjoy the ship’s facilities, look back on the highlights of the expedition with the naturalist team and prepare for disembarkation.
Day 22: Timaru
Disembarkation and end of the expedition
Morning arrival at the port of Timaru. After breakfast, disembarkation and transfer to Christchurch, bringing this unforgettable Antarctic voyage to a close.
INCLUSIONS
Included land services from Timaru harbor to Christchurch airport
For your serenity, PONANT has organised the following included program for you.
Embarkation Day – Christchurch / Timaru
In Christchurch, the pre-embarkation welcome will take place at the hotel selected by PONANT.
Our English-speaking guides will welcome you at the hotel between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
A snack will be offered upon arrival.
Transfer from the hotel, selected by PONANT, to Timaru port.
The shuttles will depart from the hotel at 1:00 p.m.
Approximate transfer duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.
– Cruise on board your ship –
On the day of your disembarkation – Timaru / Christchurch
Disembarkation.
Welcome at the port by our English-speaking guides.
Transfer to Christchurch International Airport.
Transfer duration: approximately 2 hours 30 minutes.
Airport coordinators will be present at the airport to welcome you and provide assistance.
Your programme includes:
Welcome at the hotel selected by PONANT.
A snack at the hotel selected by PONANT.
Transfer to Timaru for embarkation.
French-speaking assistance.
EXCLUSIONS
Personal expenses.
Tips.
Any other services not mentioned in the programme.
20 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
17 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
17 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
26 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
36 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
45 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
17 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
17 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
20 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
17 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
17 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
26 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
36 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
45 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
17 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
17 m2
Individually-controlled airconditioning
Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, interconnecting sStaterooms available (Children welcome)
Minibar
Flat screen satellite TV
Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
Desk with stationery
Safe
Hermès® bath products
Dressing table, bath robes, hairdryer
Direct line telephone
110V American (two flat pins) / 220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
24hr room service
Inclusive Internet access Wifi
* The prices are per person in US Dollars, unless expressly specified in a different currency. In that case, payment will be in US dollars at the exchange rate of the day.
** Rates are correct at the time of publication. All prices will be re-confirmed by email at the time of booking.
NOTE: Embracing the unexpected is part of the legacy—and excitement—of expedition travel. When traveling in extremely remote regions, your expedition staff must allow the sea, the ice and the weather to guide route and itinerary details. This itinerary is a tentative outline of what you’ll experience on this voyage; please be aware that no specific itinerary can be guaranteed.
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