Savor the culinary benefits of the unique partnership with Relais & Châteaux and featured guest chef Jimmy McIntyre.
Discover the natural treasures of New Zealand’s South Island, from ancient fjords to rare bird species and primary forests.
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Fiordland National Park and Snares Islands (New Zealand’s Sub Antarctic Islands)
Set sail aboard Le Lapérouse for an 8-day expedition cruise, in partnership with Relais & Châteaux and with featured guest chef Jimmy McIntyre, to explore the South Island of New Zealand between enchanting landscapes and observation of extraordinary wildlife, in one of the best-preserved environments on the planet.
Le Lapérouse will first chart a course to the South-West region of the South Island to discover magnificent Fiordland National Park, which is an integral part of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage area. Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound or the better-known Milford Sound: you will discover these fiords shaped by successive glaciations and bordered by majestic cliffs.
Your ship will then set sail for the Snares Islands, one of the archipelagos of New Zealand’s Sub Antarctic Islands. These remote island outposts are collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a myriad of wildlife with many species endemic to the region and even to individual islands. In these islands, often described as the Galapagos of the Southern Ocean, spectacular nature can provide great experiences.
Then you will sail towards Ulva Island, one of the few predator-free sanctuaries of New Zealand and a haven for many species of birds and plants that are rare or are extinct on the mainland of New Zealand. Finally, Dunedin, your port of disembarkation, will draw the end of this wonderful voyage.
Ships
Standard Activities
Bird Watching
Lectures
Hiking
Zodiac Cruises
Penguin Watching
About the Ancient Fjords and Unspoiled Islands of Southern New Zealand
Set sail aboard Le Lapérouse for an 8-day expedition cruise, in partnership with Relais & Châteaux and with featured guest chef Jimmy McIntyre, to explore the South Island of New Zealand between enchanting landscapes and observation of extraordinary wildlife, in one of the best-preserved environments on the planet.
Le Lapérouse will first chart a course to the South-West region of the South Island to discover magnificent Fiordland National Park, which is an integral part of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage area. Dusky Sound, Doubtful Sound or the better-known Milford Sound: you will discover these fiords shaped by successive glaciations and bordered by majestic cliffs.
Your ship will then set sail for the Snares Islands, one of the archipelagos of New Zealand’s Sub Antarctic Islands. These remote island outposts are collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a myriad of wildlife with many species endemic to the region and even to individual islands. In these islands, often described as the Galapagos of the Southern Ocean, spectacular nature can provide great experiences.
Then you will sail towards Ulva Island, one of the few predator-free sanctuaries of New Zealand and a haven for many species of birds and plants that are rare or are extinct on the mainland of New Zealand. Finally, Dunedin, your port of disembarkation, will draw the end of this wonderful voyage.
Activities
Bird Watching
Lectures
Hiking
Zodiac Cruises
Penguin Watching
Itinerary Day to Day
Day 1
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 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.
Dunedin
Embarkation Point
Day 2
At Sea
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 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.
Day 3
Milford Sound
Milford Sound fiord is among one of the most beautiful natural sites in New Zealand. So much beauty will quite simply take your breath away. Located on the south-west coast of South Island, in the Fiordland National Park, this sumptuous inlet carved out by glaciers advances over at least 15 kilometres inland, in the Southern Alps. Majestic cliffs seem to surge out of the dark waters, rising several hundred metres high: an abrupt relief from where impressive waterfalls cascade.
Fiordland
Day 4
Doubtful Sound
Referred to as the “Sound of Silence”, there is a secluded serenity that surrounds Doubtful Sound in contrast with the better-known Milford Sound. Both are part of the Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lieutenant James Cook named ‘Doubtful Harbour’ in 1770 as he was uncertain if it was navigable under sail.
Doubtful Sound is the deepest of the fiords with a maximum depth of 421 m. It contains three distinct ‘arms’ and several outstanding waterfalls in the area from Deep Cove to the open ocean. Your ship will spend time navigating around Secretary Island through both Thompson and Doubtful Sounds. You will enjoy the spectacular scenery from the outer decks.
Doubtful Sound
Day 5
Dusky Sound
Dusky Sound is one of the most isolated fjords in Fiordland National Park. This huge, protected natural zone situated in the south-west quarter of New Zealand’s South Island is listed as UNESCO World Heritage. The sheer cliffs, waterfalls, shimmering lakes and primitive forests here are each more beautiful than the next. These spectacular landscapes sculpted by successive glaciations are a source of endless wonder. In 1773, the British navigator James Cook spent a few weeks at Dusky Sound, as demonstrated by a plaque that can be seen at Astronomer’s Point.
During your sailing, observe the richness of the local wildlife: cormorants, seagulls, New Zealand fur seals, but also Fiordland crested penguins, a rare and endemic species. Weather and time permitting you may explore the Sound from our fleet of zodiac.
Dusky Sound
Day 6
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.
The Snares
Day 7
Ulva Island
Ulva Island (Te Wharawhara) is the largest of 20 islands within Paterson Inlet, Stewart Island, with an area of approx. 270 hectares. The island has never been logged and was declared pest free in 1997, becoming one of the few predator-free sanctuaries in New Zealand.
The island is now a haven for many species of birds and plants that are rare, or have died out, on the mainland of New Zealand. Bird species regularly encountered include: the flightless Stewart Island Weka, South Island saddleback, yellowhead and Stewart Island robin. Ulva Island is not only a bird enthusiast’s paradise, it is also one of the few offshore islands with a largely undisturbed podocarp forest.
Well-maintained tracks offer easy walking for most people providing a unique opportunity to see rare birds and plants at close quarters in a safe environment.
Ulva Island
Day 8
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 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.
Dunedin
Disembarkation Point
Route Map
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Cabin Details
Single Suite
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: King
Dimensions: 226 ft² (21 m²)
Number of Cabins: 2 Cabins
Features
Picture Windows
Safe
Refrigerator
Satellite Phone
TV
Individual A/C
Hairdryer
Afternoon Canapés
Bathrobes
Closet
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
Desk
Ensuite Bathroom
Minibar
Parka Jacket
Port Views
Shower
Slippers
Sofa Bed
Starboard Views
Toiletries
Welcome Drink
WiFi
Description
Averaging 21 square meters/226 square feet, these cabins are located on the oceanus deck. They feature a picture window (it may be covered during rough sea crossings), two wardrobes, and a king size bed. Amenities include: en suite facilities, in-room safe, refrigerator, satellite telephone access, tv/vcr, individual temperature control, and hair dryer.
Inside Cabin II
Capacity: 4 Guests
Beds: 4 Single beds (one of which doubles as a sofa)
Dimensions:
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Ensuite Bathroom
Description
These comfortable, standard inside cabins for up to four people on the lower deck have separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa. All cabins have private bathrooms.
Inside Cabin I
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 2 Single beds (one of which doubles as a sofa)
Dimensions: 97-151 ft² (9-14 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Description
These comfortable, standard inside cabins for up to two people on the middle or upper decks have separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa. All cabins have private bathrooms.
Polar Outside Cabin V
Capacity: 3 Guests
Beds: 3 Single beds (one of which doubles as a sofa)
Dimensions: 118-129 ft² (11-12 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Description
Polar Outside Cabin IV
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 2 Single beds
Dimensions: 118-140 ft² (11-13 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Description
These standard outside cabins for two people on the middle decks have separate beds and private bathrooms.
Polar Outside Cabin III
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 2 Single beds
Dimensions: 108-129 ft² (10-12 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Description
These standard outside cabins on the middle and upper decks have separate beds and private bathrooms.
Polar Outside Cabin II
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 2 Single beds (one of which doubles as a sofa)
Dimensions: 108-140 ft² (10-13 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Description
These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the lower deck have private bathrooms and separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa. The cabins have portholes, some with limited or no view.
Polar Outside Cabin I
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 2 Single beds (one of which doubles as a sofa)
Dimensions: 118-129 ft² (11-12 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Ensuite Bathroom
Description
These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the upper deck have private bathrooms and separate beds, one of which converts into a sofa. The cabins have limited or no view.
Accessible cabin
Capacity: 3 Guests
Beds: 3 Single beds (one of which doubles as a sofa)
Dimensions: 193 ft² (18 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Wheelchair Access
Ensuite Bathroom
Description
This is a wheelchair accessible cabin. The bed, bathroom and door are adjusted to wheelchair and have a private bathroom and separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa. The third bed is an upper berth. (We have a limited number of wheelchair accessible cabins, so we ask that they are booked by guests who require these cabins. Please inform us in advance of your disability)
Outside cabin III
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 2 Single beds
Dimensions: 172-183 ft² (16-17m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Ensuite Bathroom
TV
Description
Most of these large, comfortable cabins with single beds on the middle or upper decks have sofa groups. They all have a private bathroom and TV. The cabins have limited or no view.
Outside Cabin II
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 2 Single beds (one of which doubles as a sofa)
Dimensions: 108-151 ft² (10-14 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Ensuite Bathroom
Desk
Description
These comfortable outside cabins for up to two people on the top/upper decks have a private bathroom and separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa.
Outside cabin I
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 2 Single beds (one of which doubles as a sofa)
Dimensions: 108-118 ft² (10-11 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Ensuite Bathroom
Desk
Description
These comfortable, outside cabins for up to two people on the middle deck have a private bathroom and separate beds, one of which doubles as a sofa.
Owner Suite
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 1 Double bed
Dimensions: 474-484 ft² (44-45 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Ensuite Bathroom
TV
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
Dining Area
WiFi
Walk-Out Balcony
Description
These exclusive suites are situated on the upper decks. The suites have two rooms, a seating area and dining table, TV, kettle, tea/coffee, stereo, internet access, bathroom, minibar and private balcony. Travel the best way possible!
Grand Suite
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 1 Double bed
Dimensions: 269-388 ft² (25-36 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
TV
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
WiFi
Ensuite Bathroom
Minibar
Description
These exclusive suites have a seating area, TV, kettle, tea/coffee, stereo, internet access, bathroom and minibar. The first minibar setup is included for each item, each replenishment is chargeable. Some of the suites also have bathtubs, and a private balcony or bay window.
Suite
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 1 Double bed
Dimensions: 248-258 ft² (23- 24m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Ensuite Bathroom
TV
Minibar
Description
These elegant suites are on the upper deck with a seating area, bathroom, TV and minibar. Some have a private balcony.
Mini Suite
Capacity: 2 Guests
Beds: 1 Double bed
Dimensions: 474-484 ft² (44-45 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Sofa
TV
WiFi
Minibar
Ensuite Bathroom
Description
These comfortable suites on the middle or upper decks have double beds and most have sofa groups as well. The suites also have a TV, internet access, a bathroom and minibar. The first minibar setup is included for each item, each replenishment is chargeable. Some cabins have portholes and limited view, while the cabins on deck 7 have a full view.
Main Deck Triple
Capacity:
Beds: 2 Single beds and 1 Pullman bed
Dimensions: 237 ft² ( 22 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Porthole Windows
Desk
Ensuite Bathroom
Shower
Chair
Table
Closet
Starboard Views
Port Views
Toiletries
Minibar
TV
Individual A/C
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
Welcome Drink
WiFi
Description
Main Deck Triple Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22 m² and feature two porthole windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Superior Triple
Capacity:
Beds: 2 Single beds and 1 Pullman bed
Dimensions: 237 ft² ( 22 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Desk
Shower
Sofa
Table
Chair
Closet
Picture Windows
Starboard Views
Port Views
Ensuite Bathroom
Toiletries
Minibar
TV
Individual A/C
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
Welcome Drink
WiFi
Description
Superior Triple Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22 m² and feature large panoramic windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Superior Cabin II
Capacity:
Beds: 1 King size bed or 2 Single beds
Dimensions: 239 ft² ( 22 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Separate Lounge
Desk
Shower
Sofa
Table
Chair
Closet
Picture Windows
Starboard Views
Port Views
Ensuite Bathroom
Toiletries
Minibar
TV
Individual A/C
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
Welcome Drink
WiFi
Description
Superior Cabins II on Deck 4 are a spacious 22m² and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Superior Cabin I
Capacity:
Beds: 1 King size bed or 2 Single beds
Dimensions: 237 ft² ( 22 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Separate Lounge
Desk
Shower
Sofa
Table
Chair
Closet
Picture Windows
Starboard Views
Port Views
Ensuite Bathroom
Toiletries
Minibar
TV
Individual A/C
Welcome Drink
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
WiFi
Description
Superior Cabins I on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m² and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Main Deck Single
Capacity:
Beds: King
Dimensions: 239 ft² ( 22 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Porthole Windows
Separate Lounge
Desk
Shower
Sofa
Chair
Closet
Starboard Views
Port Views
Ensuite Bathroom
Toiletries
Minibar
TV
Individual A/C
Welcome Drink
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
WiFi
Description
Main Deck Single Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m² and feature two porthole windows, king bed, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Worsley Suite
Capacity:
Beds: King/Twin
Dimensions: 237 ft² ( 22 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Separate Lounge
Desk
Shower
In-Cabin Dining
Minibar
Sofa
Table
Closet
Picture Windows
Starboard Views
Port Views
Ensuite Bathroom
Toiletries
Bathrobes
Slippers
TV
Individual A/C
Butler Service
Welcome Drink
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
WiFi
Description
Located on Deck 6, Worsley Suites are a spacious 22m² and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable chaise-style lounge suite, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system. Receive complimentary in-room dining, minibar replenished daily, Heritage Expeditions keep cup, notebook and pen.
Superior Single I
Capacity:
Beds: King
Dimensions: 237 ft² (22 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Desk
Shower
Sofa
Table
Chair
Closet
Picture Windows
Starboard Views
Port Views
Ensuite Bathroom
Toiletries
Minibar
TV
Individual A/C
Welcome Drink
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
WiFi
Description
Superior Single Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22 m² and feature large panoramic windows, king bed, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
Heritage Suite
Capacity:
Beds: King
Dimensions: 474 ft² (44 m²)
Number of Cabins: Cabins
Features
Sofa
Table
Double Sink Vanity
Bathtub
Shower
Desk
In-Cabin Dining
Minibar
Complimentary Laundry Service
Chair
Closet
Picture Windows
Starboard Views
Port Views
Ensuite Bathroom
Toiletries
Bathrobes
Slippers
Hairdryer
Coffee Machine
TV
Individual A/C
Butler Service
Welcome Drink
Complimentary Tea & Coffee
WiFi
Description
Located on Deck 6, Heritage Suites are an expansive 44 m² and feature large double panoramic windows, king bed, large living area with a sofa, coffee table and chairs and grand marble bathroom with a double basin, bathtub and shower, large writing desk, floor to ceiling cabinetry for storage and a flat screen entertainment system. Receive complimentary in-room dining, minibar replenished daily, free laundry, US$100.00 per person SPA credit,Expeditions keep cup, notebook and pen.