Expedition to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands with Ponant
27 December 2026 | 16 night package
from $21,090* pp twin | $22,990* solo
For a limited time save up to $1,600 per person – Cruise Express Exclusive!
Enjoy incredible solo fares!
Answer the call of adventure on this expedition from Dunedin aboard Le Soléal, where exploration meets French luxury. From the wild beauty of New Zealand’s fiords to the remote Subantarctic Islands – the “Galápagos of the Southern Ocean” – this journey takes you to the edge of the world, beyond ordinary travel.
Discover Ulva Island, an open-air sanctuary where rare birds thrive. Sail through Fiordland National Park and experience the majesty of Dusky, Doubtful and Milford Sounds, celebrating New Year’s Eve in unforgettable style. By Zodiac, explore secluded coves, glide beneath waterfalls, and search for elusive wildlife.
Continue to the Subantarctic Islands including the wildlife-rich Snares and Australia’s Macquarie Island, home to thousands of penguins and fur seals. Discover vast megaherb meadows, black-sand beaches patrolled by penguins and cliffs ruled by albatross. Guided by expert naturalists, each day reveals extraordinary wildlife and landscapes.
Between adventures, retreat to the comfort of Le Soléal. Chic suites offer ocean views, fine dining celebrates French art de vivre, and elegant lounges invite relaxation. With flights and pre and post-cruise stays included, this seamless journey is for adventurers who also cherish life’s finest luxuries.
Package Inclusions
Departs 27 December 2026 | 16 nights
- Economy class air Sydney to Dunedin and return
- 1 night pre cruise accommodation Fable Hotel, Dunedin (or similar) including breakfast
- 14 night expedition cruise on Ponant’s Le Soleal
- 1 night post cruise accommodation Fable Hotel, Dunedin (or similar) including breakfast
- Zodiac outings led by expedition experts
- Conferences and information sessions on board with destination experts
- Open bar for all drinks in restaurants, bars and minibars (excluding the premium menu)
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Bose Bluetooth speaker and Flat screen TV
- Access to the wellness area and steam room or sauna
- Port charges and taxes
*Flights from/to other Australian cities are available at a supplement
Business Class air upgrades available on request – please ask us for more details
Package fares
from $21,090* pp twin | solo N/A
from $22,590* pp twin | $22,990* solo
Deck 4 from $23,590* pp twin | $23,990* solo
Deck 5 from $23,990* pp twin | $24,390* solo
from $34,990* pp twin | $35,390* solo
Expedition Highlights
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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.
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites (including Te Wāhipounamu, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound) and exceptional wildlife (crested penguins, eared seals, sea lions, elephant seals, and more).
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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.
Call 1300 766 537 or complete the form below to enquire
Expedition to New Zealands Subantarctic Islands
*Prices are advertised in Australian dollars and are per person based on twin share or sole occupancy. Pricing is correct as at 16 October 2025 and is subject to change until booked and paid in full. Pricing is subject to change due to availability, currency fluctuation, surcharges and taxes. Offer is valid until 19 November 2025 or until sold out and is subject to limited availability. All discounts & savings are included in the advertised price. Offer is not combinable with other promotions, is capacity-controlled, subject to availability and may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. All fares are subject to the terms and conditions as set out by Cruise Express and its suppliers which may be obtained at the time of booking. Cruise Express reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions and to cancel any product or service offered in the event of such error or omission. Availability is strictly limited in some cabin grades. Airfares may require immediate payment and ticketing, please check payment terms with your Travel Specialist at the time of booking. Travel insurance is strongly recommended at the time of making your first deposit.
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Central Coast NSW
Perth WA
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