22D21N : Scott & Shackleton’s Antarctic – Ross Sea Expedition

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 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.

During your journey 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 journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or 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.

Enderby Island is situated off the North Eastern tip of Auckland Island and is the second largest Island in the group. The eradication of introduced species in 1994 has seen a significant increase in the abundance of the native flora and fauna compared to the main Auckland Island. It has become a stronghold for the rare yellow-eyed penguin and the primary breeding location of the New Zealand Sea Lion. You will head ashore and have the opportunity to undertake a guided walk on the Northern Cliffs track as well as spend time viewing the New Zealand Sea Lion colony. There is also the opportunity to undertake a zodiac tour around the coastline of Enderby Island in search of the Auckland Island Teal and other endemic species.

Enjoy a relaxing and enriching day at sea with a variety of onboard experiences. Unwind at the spa, stay active in the fitness centre, or soak up the sun by the pool. Take advantage of onboard entertainment such as talks, shows, and boutique shopping, or connect with PONANT photographers. Head to the upper deck to enjoy ocean views and possibly spot marine life—creating a perfect balance of comfort, leisure, and discovery.

Enjoy a relaxing and enriching day at sea with a variety of onboard experiences. Unwind at the spa, stay active in the fitness centre, or soak up the sun by the pool. Take advantage of onboard entertainment such as talks, shows, and boutique shopping, or connect with PONANT photographers. Head to the upper deck to enjoy ocean views and possibly spot marine life—creating a perfect balance of comfort, leisure, and discovery.

Enjoy a relaxing and enriching day at sea with a variety of onboard experiences. Unwind at the spa, stay active in the fitness centre, or soak up the sun by the pool. Take advantage of onboard entertainment such as talks, shows, and boutique shopping, or connect with PONANT photographers. Head to the upper deck to enjoy ocean views and possibly spot marine life—creating a perfect balance of comfort, leisure, and discovery.

Begin your journey into the legendary Ross Sea, a remote and pristine marine sanctuary first explored by Sir James Clark Ross. Take in the vast icy landscapes and learn about the region’s rich exploration history.

Arrive at Cape Adare, home to the world’s largest colony of Adélie penguins. Witness thousands of penguins in their natural habitat—an unforgettable wildlife spectacle.

Explore Terra Nova Bay, where international research stations from Italy and South Korea are located. Gain insight into modern Antarctic scientific exploration.

Sail alongside the impressive Drygalski Ice Tongue, a massive лед formation extending from the David Glacier. Marvel at its sheer size and dramatic icy formations.

Visit Inexpressible Island, where six men from Robert Falcon Scott’s expedition survived a brutal winter in an ice cave. Discover this powerful story of endurance and survival.

Step onto Ross Island and explore Cape Royds. Visit Sir Ernest Shackleton’s historic hut from the Nimrod Expedition, set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Erebus.

Discover Franklin Island, named after Sir John Franklin. Observe Adélie penguins and Weddell seals resting along the shoreline.

Enjoy a final day cruising through the Ross Sea. Take in the breathtaking scenery, reflect on your expedition, and keep watch for marine wildlife in this untouched polar wilderness.

Enjoy a relaxing and enriching day at sea with a variety of onboard experiences. Unwind at the spa, stay active in the fitness centre, or soak up the sun by the pool. Take advantage of onboard entertainment such as talks, shows, and boutique shopping, or connect with PONANT photographers. Head to the upper deck to enjoy ocean views and possibly spot marine life—creating a perfect balance of comfort, leisure, and discovery.

Enjoy a relaxing and enriching day at sea with a variety of onboard experiences. Unwind at the spa, stay active in the fitness centre, or soak up the sun by the pool. Take advantage of onboard entertainment such as talks, shows, and boutique shopping, or connect with PONANT photographers. Head to the upper deck to enjoy ocean views and possibly spot marine life—creating a perfect balance of comfort, leisure, and discovery.

Enjoy a relaxing and enriching day at sea with a variety of onboard experiences. Unwind at the spa, stay active in the fitness centre, or soak up the sun by the pool. Take advantage of onboard entertainment such as talks, shows, and boutique shopping, or connect with PONANT photographers. Head to the upper deck to enjoy ocean views and possibly spot marine life—creating a perfect balance of comfort, leisure, and discovery.

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.

Enjoy a relaxing and enriching day at sea with a variety of onboard experiences. Unwind at the spa, stay active in the fitness centre, or soak up the sun by the pool. Take advantage of onboard entertainment such as talks, shows, and boutique shopping, or connect with PONANT photographers. Head to the upper deck to enjoy ocean views and possibly spot marine life—creating a perfect balance of comfort, leisure, and discovery.

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.

Enjoy a relaxing and enriching day at sea with a variety of onboard experiences. Unwind at the spa, stay active in the fitness centre, or soak up the sun by the pool. Take advantage of onboard entertainment such as talks, shows, and boutique shopping, or connect with PONANT photographers. Head to the upper deck to enjoy ocean views and possibly spot marine life—creating a perfect balance of comfort, leisure, and discovery.

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 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.