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 $6,120*

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 discover captivating Christchurch and watch sperm whales in seaside Kaikoura. Then venture to the glacier-carved 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 and Christchurch: Dock in lovely Akaroa and travel inland to Christchurch, New Zealand’s “Garden City.” Discover the creative ways that Christchurch has rebounded following the earthquake of 2011, from the Cardboard Cathedral to a thriving community arts scene. Ride the Christchurch gondola for an aerial city view or stroll through the Botanic Garden to see native flora.

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.

Antarctica: The White Continent

Aboard the 264-guest Le Boreal

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

12 days from $12,950*

Includes round-trip air between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia and one hotel night in Buenos Aires

Feb. 25–Mar. 7, 2024

Venture to a magnificent realm of ice and intriguing wildlife on an unforgettable 12-day voyage to Antarctica. During the lingering light of the austral summer, encounter fantastically shaped icebergs, dramatic rocky promontories, and immense glaciers that rise hundreds of feet above the sea. Take walks on volcanic islands alive with seals, seabirds, and penguins, and set out by Zodiac to discover firsthand how a diverse array of marine wildlife flourishes in this seemingly harsh environment.

Highlights Include

Tierra del Fuego and the Beagle Channel: From Ushuaia, Argentina, the world’s southernmost city, explore the enchanting landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park; then cruise the legendary Beagle Channel on the way to the open sea.

Exploring Antarctica: Cross the legendary Drake Passage en route to the outer shores and islands of the Antarctic Peninsula. Here, below the 60th parallel south, explore some of the world’s most stark and spectacular wilderness areas, where towering glaciers and lavasculpted mountains plunge to an ice-choked sea. Our route will be determined by weather and ice conditions, making every trip a unique encounter with this mystical and marvelous land.

Wildlife: Observe up close the antics of chinstrap and gentoo penguins as they fish, molt, and feed their young; and watch for breaching fin, humpback, and minke whales in icy bays. See crabeater and leopard seals lazing on the ice between meals and discover the unusual creatures of the polar seas.

Zodiac and Land Excursions: Embark on sturdy Zodiacs with expert naturalists for unforgettable excursions to islands, among ice floes and icebergs, and, conditions permitting, to the continent itself. During shore excursions, walk among wildlife on rugged islands and black-sand beaches, and witness how volcanic activity has played a pivotal role in Antarctica’s natural history. Learn about the work of scientists at research stations and hear tales of the whalers and spies who made their base here.

Add a two-night extension in Buenos Aires. Limited to 200 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

*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 astrophysicist Richard Miller and Wayne Ranney, a geologist and writer.