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Ross Sea Expedition 2025 | Le Soleal

22 Days
From USD 22,240

STYLE: Small Ship Expedition Cruise

Trip Code: ACPORSE

DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)

Start: Dunedin, New Zealand

Finish: Dunedin, New Zealand

SHIP: Le Soleal

DestinationDestination

Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand & Antarctica

DestinationDeparture Date

26/01/2025, 16/02/2025

MealsMeals

All meals, snacks, drinks, tea and coffee onboard (excludes premium beverages)

TransportTransport

Transfers not Included

TransportAccommodation

Cabin on board a ship



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map

Included SightseeingIncluded Sightseeing

Daily Excursions in location, Zodiac Cruising, Onboard Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Expedition Team

 

NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather & ice conditions 

OVERVIEW

Visit the most pristine ocean on Earth as you follow in the footsteps of the heroic age of Antarctic expeditions. Departing from Dunedin, this 22 day expedition will allow you to explore the highlights of the Subantarctic Islands and Antarctica. Often omitted from the minds of the exploratory traveller, the Subantarctic Islands are one of the most biodiverse and wildlife rich corners of the world. All of this is magnificently capitalised as you undertake a number of exciting expeditions along the Antarctic Coast - potentially you will even view the historic huts of Scott, Shackleton and Borchgrevnk. This is a truly remarkable expedition experience encapsulating rich history, wildlife and landscapes of breathtaking scale.

PLEASE NOTE: The 26 Jan 2025 departure has a slight variation to the itinerary from the itinerary below (which is based on the 16 Feb 2025 departure). Please contact us for more details. 

ITINERARY

Embarkation in Dunedin

Dunedin is New Zealand's oldest city and is often referred to as the Edinburgh of New Zealand. This city of the south wears its Scottish heritage with pride. The city contains some of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. The picturesque Silverpeaks hinterland to the North West provides a picturesque backdrop and The Otago Peninsula, which lies within the city boundaries, has internationally renowned wildlife reserves, including the only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross. Le Soleal will be alongside the inner city wharf in Dunedin

At Sea

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Campbell Island

Campbell Island is the most southerly of the five New Zealand subantarctic groups. Described by the English botanist Joseph Hooker as having a 'flora display second to none outside the tropics.' It is known for its megaherbs, herbaceous, perennial wildflowers characterised by their great size, with huge leaves and very colourful flowers, which have developed as an adaptation to the harsh weather conditions on the islands. Campbell Island is also home to six species of albatross, and several critically endangered endemic birds including the Campbell Island teal and snipe. You will have the opportunity to undertake a guided walk on the Col Lyell Saddle boardwalk as well as undertake a zodiac tour around the coastline of Perseverance Harbour.

At Sea - Days 4 to 6

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Ross Sea Region - Day 7 to 14

The Ross Sea, the southernmost sea in the world, owes its name to Sir James Clark Ross, both a naturalist and a Royal Navy officer, who first explored the area in 1841 with HMS Erebus and HMS Terror. It is bounded on the east by Roosevelt Island and the Edward VII Peninsula in Mary Byrd Land, on the west by Ross Island and the coastal mountains of Victoria Land, and on the south by the Ross Ice Shelf, the largest ice shelf in Antarctica located some 320 km from the geographic South Pole. The history and treasures of the world's ultimate marine sanctuary will be revealed during this extraordinary expedition.

You will be able, weather and ice conditions permitting, to discover several emblematic sites in the region. Among the possible stopovers, Cape Adare, at the northern end of the Borchgrevink coast, home to the world’s largest colony of Adélie penguins. We will attempt to reach Terra Nova Bay where the Italian and South Korean scientific stations are located to the north and the Drygalski Ice Tongue to the south. Dating back at least 4000 years, it extends 70 km offshore from the David Glacier and is 24 km at its widest point. On the Inexpressible Island, discover the exceptional survival conditions of a group of six men of the Terra Nova expedition, led by Robert Falcon Scott (1910-1913), forced to winter in a cave dug in the ice, today classified as an Antarctica historical monument. On Ross Island, follow in the footsteps of the polar explorers Sir James Clark Ross and discover Sir Ernest Shackleton's hut, classified as an Antarctica historical monument. Built at Cape Royds during the British expedition Nimrod (1907-1909), it proudly stands at the bottom of Mount Erebus. Sixty years earlier, while Captain James Ross was trying to reach the South Magnetic Pole, he discovered Franklin Island, located 130 km east of Cape Hickey in Victoria Land. He named it after Sir John Franklin, Arctic explorer and governor of the territory of present-day Tasmania. You will be offered there, a privileged position to observe Adélie penguins in their daily ballet as well as Weddell seals, resting on the shore.

At Sea - Day 15 to 18

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Macquarie Island

Long celebrated as one of the wonder spots of the world, Macquarie Island is an island of great beauty and outstanding natural diversity, a breeding place for more than 3.5 million seabirds, most of which are penguins. There are four species breeding on Macquarie Island: Royals, Kings, Gentoos and Rock Hoppers. There are also three types of fur seals and one seventh of the world's population of elephant seals breeding on the Island. In 1948 The Australian National Antarctic Research Expeditions (ANARE) established its expedition headquarters on Macquarie Island. If time and weather permit, guests will have the opportunity to land ashore and view the prolific wildlife that resides here.

At Sea

During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

The Snares

Amongst the Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand, the Snares have the distinction of being the only forested group without introduced mammals, not even mice. Consequently, it is a remarkable haven for wildlife. The island boasts more nesting seabirds than the entire realm of the British Isles. Over 2 million Sooty Shearwaters breed here in the summer months. Four species of Albatross are listed as breeding on the Snares along with 35,000 endemic Snares crested penguins. There are also approximately 1,000 New Zealand fur seals and 500 New Zealand sea lions. Landing on the Snares is prohibited. If time and weather permit, you will have the opportunity to explore the coastal environments and view the prolific wildlife from our fleet of Zodiac.

Disembark in Dunedin

Bid farewell to the expedition team and your fellow travelers before proceeding to transfer to the airport for your onward travels.

DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDF

WHY CHOOSE THIS CRUISE?

  • You will undertake this voyage on board Le Soleal - This extraordinary voyage perfectly combines adventure on a luxury scale.

  • With landscapes of a breathtaking scale you will have the opportunity to see at least 9 penguin species and a number of seal species including Weddell Seal, Fur Seals and even Southern Elephant Seals.

  • You will visit the Snares - Alone these islands boast more nesting seabirds than the entirety of the British Isles.

Le Soleal

Le Soleal

Le Soléal is an elegant, chic yacht with a sleek silhouette, refined ambiance, quality workmanship and contemporary decor. The 132 comfortable suites and staterooms, range from superior, deluxe and prestige staterooms, to deluxe and prestige suites, The can accommodate up to 264 passengers (200 in Antarctica). All rooms are equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, king or twin beds, en-suite shower, Wi-Fi access and a TV, and all cabins except the superior staterooms feature a balcony. 

The ship is designed to take passengers to the furthest reaches of the planet with sophistication and modern touches, as well as top-of-the-range services. This is adventure in a luxury setting. 

The ship has many premium features, including a theatre for performances and onboard lectures by naturalist guides, a wellness area including a hair salon, spa, hammam and fitness studio, a panoramic lounge and outdoor bar, which overlooks the pool deck. Sailing onboard Le Soleal you will enjoy room service, most beverages and an in room mini bar included in the cost of your voyage. You can choosse from 2 premium restaurants onboard, one with a wine cellar and the other a grill restaurant. Afternoon tea is served at around 4pm daily. 

 

Ice Class: Length: 142m (466ft)
Breadth: 18m (59 ft)Max
Draft: Cruising
Speed:
Electricity: Passenger
Capacity:
264

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Accommodation

We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.

Standard

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Superior

Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.

Deluxe

Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.

Pricing per person & date

Ross Sea Expedition 2025 | Le Soleal from USD 22,240
Departing Ending Duration
26 Jan 202516 Feb 202522
16 Feb 202509 Mar 202522

Important Information

  • Prices & promotions from the operator are dynamic in nature. They are correct at time of publishing (1 October 2024) but are subject to change at any time until the time of booking. Please Contact us for the most current availability and up to date cabin pricing. 

    Pricing is subject to change based on currency fluctuation, selected cabin, availability at the time of booking and may be withdrawn or varied at any time without notice.

  • Prices are based on per person, twin share.

    Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.

    Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather and ice conditions.

    PLEASE NOTE: The 26 Jan 2025 departure has a slight variation to the itinerary from the itinerary below (which is based on the 16 Feb 2025 departure). Please contact us for more details. 

  • INCLUSIONS

    Cabin accommodation on board ship 
    All meals whilst on board
    Comprehensive pre-departure information 
    All scheduled landings and excursions, conditions permitting
    Guiding and lectures by experienced expedition crew 
    Expedition jacket provided (yours to keep) 
    A pair of expedition boots for use during voyage
    Beverages (Excludes premium alcohol drinks served à la carte) 


    EXCLUSIONS

    Airfares to and from embarkation/disembarkation city
    Visa and reciprocity fees (if applicable) 
    Travel Insurance
    Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary 
    Personal expenses such as on board communications
    Any pre or post cruise packages or accommodation stays
    Gratuities for the crew

     

  • 2 (light adventure)
  • Available upon request, contact us for more details. 

  • Departure date, fuel surcharges, cabin category, currency fluctuations, seasonality and availability.

FROM PRICE & PROMOTIONAL DETAILS

  • From Price based on 16 Feb 25 Departure - Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
  • Includes Booking Bonus of 10% Discount 
  • Pricing is dynamic in nature and subject to change until booking is confirmed
  • Please enquire for solo cabin pricing - no single supplement offer available on selected cabins/voyages

Please Contact Us for the latest availability, pricing and details of your preferred voyage. Chimu Adventures are Antarctica experts and we will endeavour to find you the perfect Antarctica expedition cruise to ensure you have an unforgettable adventure!

See detailed promotional T&Cs below

NOTE: Pricing is subject to change, currency fluctuation and availability at the time of booking and may be varied without notice by us or any of the operators and partners we work with. It is only confirmed and guaranteed at the time of making a booking, agreeing to our terms and conditions and paying a deposit.