New Zealand’s South Island by Sea: A Voyage to the Fiordland

From Wellington to Dunedin Aboard the 184-guest Le Laperouse

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,480*

Feb. 15–22, 2024

New Zealand’s South Island is edged with spectacular coastlines, where mountains rise dramatically just beyond the shore; pristine fjords cut between towering cliffs; and whales, fur seals, and penguins are drawn by unspoiled marine habitats. Sail from Wellington to the World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park, stopping to watch sperm whales in seaside Kaikoura and discover Hector’s dolphin in Akaroa. Then venture to the glaciercarved waterways of the Fiordland, exploring four glorious sounds: Dusky, Doubtful, Thomson, and the extraordinary Milford Sound.

Highlights Include

Kaikoura: Explore this attractive small town, poised on a narrow peninsula between dramatic mountains and the sea. Then set out on a wildlife cruise to observe the diverse creatures drawn here by nutrient-rich waters: sea lions, dolphins, and several species of whales—including sperm whales, which can be found off Kaikoura year-round.

Akaroa: Dock in lovely Akaroa and set off on a harbor cruise, on the lookout for seabirds and Hector’s dolphin— the smallest and rarest marine dolphin species in the world—as well as the prolific birdlife that comes to roost on the towering sea walls known as Cathedral Cave.

Dusky and Doubtful Sounds: In remote Dusky Sound, encounter rich wildlife such as New Zealand fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins. Glide into the narrow Doubtful Sound—named by Captain James Cook, who was unsure it was navigable—and discover spectacular waterfalls.

Milford Sound: Experience the majesty of Milford Sound, taking in a cathedral of vertical cliffs and peaks that tower above the serene waters. Ride Zodiacs for a closer view of wildlife and scenery along the shores.

Ulva Island: Take a guided walking tour on Ulva Island, a predator-free haven for bird and plant species that are rarely found on New Zealand’s main islands. Watch for the flightless Stewart Island weka and the South Island saddleback, and meander through an unspoiled podocarp forest. Add a four-night extension in New Zealand’s North Island. *Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Geoff Cox, an expert in the natural sciences, the environment, and marine biology.