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Embark on an extraordinary adventure to the seldom visited Ross Sea from New Zealand and walk in the footsteps of legendary polar explorers on this exciting expedition.

Sailing from Dunedin in New Zealand on board Le Soléal, start in Campbell Island, part of New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands, and discover the island’s spectacular endemic flora and fauna, including six species of albatross.

While you enjoy some time at sea and take advantage of talks and lectures on board by your team of expedition guides, be prepared to reach the Ross Sea, the Southernmost sea on Earth.

Alongside your expedition team, you will have the privilege of exploring this fascinating region and learn all about its history and natural environment, all in one of the most pristine, spectacular settings. Observe the largest Adelie penguin rookeries in the world, sail pass gigantic icebergs and thundering glaciers during a zodiac excursion, or spot Weddell Seals as they relax or hunt on icefloes.

You will have the opportunity to visit historic buildings including Sir Ernest Shackleton’s hut at Cape Royds, and reflect on the heroic polar journeys of some of the world’s most intrepid polar explorers.

On your way back to New Zealand, enjoy some time on Australia’s Macquarie Island, and its impressive colony of king penguins, as well as the Snares islands and their unique wildlife sanctuaries, before disembarking in Dunedin. A truly memorable adventure not many have the chance to experience!

Highlights

  • Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Macquarie Island and New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands (Campbell and the Snares islands).
  • Visit the most pristine piece of ocean on Earth.
  • Follow in the footsteps of the heroic age of Antarctic exploration and explore the historic huts of Scott, Shackleton and Borchgrevink.
  • The Snares islands alone boast more nesting seabirds than the entire realm of the British Isles.
  • Fauna: fur, Southern Elephant, Weddell and crabeater seals; New Zealand Sea Lions; breeding seabirds; African, Adélie, Royal, Gentoo penguins, chinstrap, Southern rockhopper and macaroni penguins.
  • Gain an insight into the history and the diversity of flora and fauna from your expert expedition team.

Itinerary

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.

Day 2 - At sea
Day 3 - Campbell Island
Days 4-6 - At sea
Days 7-14 - Ross Sea Region
Day 15 - At sea
Day 16 - Balleny Islands
Days 17-18 - At sea
Day 19 - Macquarie Island
Day 20 - At sea
Day 21 - The Snares
Day 22 - Dunedin

Departures and Prices

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Enquire About Scott & Shackleton's Antarctic - Ross Sea Expedition by PONANT

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ABOUT US


We'll compare a huge selection of expedition ships, cruises and operators to find your perfect cruise.

Our prices are amongst the best you'll find, plus look out for Polar Routes exclusive offers!

As supporters of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, booking with us helps support the work of the trust within Antarctica.

All our holidays are ATOL protected (11104), for your complete peace of mind.


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Why book with Polar Routes?

CHOICE
  • We can compare a huge selection of expedition ships, cruises and operators.
  • From former Russian research vessels to larger and luxurious ships - there is an expedition cruise to suit you. 
  • Our Polar Specialists will help you choose the perfect expedition cruise for your requirements.
SPECIALISTS
  • We are the expedition cruise specialists and know all the polar destinations inside out.
  • Our expert team of Polar Specialists have extensive knowledge of all the expedition ships & operators.
  • All of our Polar Specialists have first-hand experience of expedition cruising to the polar regions.
VALUE
  • Our prices are amongst the best you'll find, plus look out for Polar Routes exclusive offers!
  • All our holidays are ATOL protected (11104), for your complete peace of mind.
  • As supporters of the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust, booking with us helps support the work of the trust within Antarctica.