Aotearoa, the Land of the Long White Cloud , raises from the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean, offering travellers an insular realm, a garden of Eden with an infinity of landscapes.
The North Island is volcanic and home to tropical rainforests, romantic lakes, and hot springs with sulphurous geysers, and in contrast the South Island boasts alpine peaks interlaced with fjords, snow-capped mountains and majestic glaciers that stretch out to meet vast green pastures. The southern coastline of New Zealand is best explored by ship, and some of the highlights, Milford Sound, Dusky Sound and the chance of some spectacular whale watching, are all maritime.
During the cruise, we hope to see some spectacular wildlife; Fur Seals, many Elephant Seals, King Penguins, Yellow-Eyed Penguins and Royal Penguins. A very wide variety of birds: Gibson's Albatross, Giant Petrels, Auckland Shags and Numerous Sterns. Also Sperm & Humpback whales, Commerson's Dolphins and Orcas, which can be seen around the coastline.
From Picton, visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre and its exhibitions of aircraft from World War I, and enjoy a wine tasting at the Brancott Estate Heritage Centre.
From the city of Wellington, discover the Zealandia eco-sanctuary, a site entirely dedicated to the unique history of New Zealands conservation.
From Tauranga, discover the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland and sail on Lake Rotorua aboard the Lakeland Queen.
Wildlife: Impressive colonies of Fur Seals, many Elephant Seals, King Penguins, Yellow-Eyed Penguins and Royal Penguins. A very wide variety of birds: Gibsons Albatross, Giant Petrels, Auckland Shags and Numerous Sterns. Also Rorquals,Commersons Dolphins and Orcas, which can be seen around the coastline.
Landscapes: Beaches of gravel and black sand, cliffs and lush green prairies, snow - capped mountain chains, coastal plateaux, glacial valleys (fjords), lakes and ponds, primary forests.
There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.
L'Austral
Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship
This superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins is the result of the expertise of the Italian Fincantieri shipyard and French sophistication, as interpreted by designer Jean-Philippe Nuel. L'Austral has a unique atmosphere, a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy and well-being.
A sleek silhouette softened by elegantly smooth contours and large, arched windows opening up to the sea and the light: so many features come together to give L’Austral her distinctive shape. Precious materials, discreet elegance and a perfect balance between chic and casual, combine to make you feel as if you are on your own private yacht. A design blending tradition and innovation, where a nautical mood has been subtly recreated. Precious materials in smoothing neutral tones are brought to life with splashes of cheerful reds. So many personal touches create the spirit of a “private yacht”.
Suites and staterooms
You can expect magnificent ocean views as 124 staterooms and suites have balconies.
Individually-controlled airconditioning • Cabin layout: kingsize bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available (children welcome) • Minibar • Flat screen satellite TV • IPod™ players • Desk with stationery • Electronic safe • French bath products • Dressing table and hairdryer • Bath robes • Satellite direct line telephone • 110/220 volts • 24hr room service • WiFi • Balcony
Cuisine
Loyal to the great French tradition, the haute cuisine on board is worthy of the finest restaurants, where discreet, attentive service is the hallmark.
Choose from two restaurants for breakfasts, lunch and dinner. The Gastronomic Restaurant is situated on Le Liberté Deck and serves you French and international cuisine accompagnied by fine wine. On the Grill Restaurant, you have the opportuniny to eat outside and enjoy buffet lunch and themed dinner.
Life On Board
Whether you want to join other guests in the theatre or games area (Wii™ consoles, etc), or relax on your own in a quiet corner of the library, L'Austral has been designed to meet the needs of every guest.
Everything has been done to preserve the independence of each guest to suit their personal tastes: lounges for lectures and shows, a spa in partnership with Sothys™, but also more intimate spaces such as the library and internet corner. Comfortable cabins, nearly all with private balcony, are available for families either as triples or as communicating cabins. There is also a games area with Wii™ consoles, children’s menus, and a baby-sitting service. Just as if you were on a private yacht, your time is your own to do as you please.
Fitted with the latest equipment (Kinesis Wall, running machine) and in partnership with the famous Sothys™ brand, the Beauty Centre on L'Austral welcomes you for some unforgettable moments of relaxation and pampering (beauty treatments, hairdresser).
Wheelchairs3 specially adapted wheelchair cabins (Deck 3 = Superior cabin no. 307, no balcony, Deck 4 = Prestige Cabin no. 407 - with balcony and Deck 5 = Prestige Cabin no 509, with balcony) and lifts to all decks/areas.
Details
Length: 142 metres. Passenger Capacity: 264 (200 in Antarctica). Built: 2011
Please click the following links to read more about Ponant and the other Ponant cruise ships.
