The unique travel experience all Kiwi foodies need to know about

Only a few intrepid travellers experience this region of our planet each year.

A journey begins when you first have curiosity, followed by the desire to explore what is beyond the horizon, and this was the case this past December. LANCE GREEN, experience creator, took a select group of guests on a voyage to New Zealand's Subantarctic Islands and Australia’s Macquarie Island aboard Le Soleal.

What they were treated to over the next 15 days was truly unique and, without question, one of those once-in-a-lifetime travel experiences.

Many of us now seek experiences that connect us to the environment and wildlife in a meaningful and enriching way. Visitors are limited to 700 people each summer season for the NZ Subantarctic Islands and 1,500 for Australia's Macquarie Island.

In this coming season, Le Soleal will undertake this particular voyage only twice, with BEYOND.exp having secured five (5) staterooms on board the January 2026 departure. The journey begins in Port Chalmers, Dunedin, and ventures into regions where nature dominates and humans are mere visitors. From the moment the ship sets sail, guests are immersed in a world of raw natural beauty and ecological wonder.

The first destination is Ulva Island, located within Paterson Inlet, a sanctuary known for its thriving native birdlife and unspoiled forests. Accompanied by Ponant’s team of expert naturalists and destination specialists, guests will have the opportunity to encounter some of the rarest bird species on Earth.

The expedition continues to the remote Snares Islands, home to approximately 35,000 endemic Snares crested penguins (also known as Gorfous) and a bustling colony of fur seals. From there, the ship sails to the Auckland Island archipelago, landing on Enderby Island and then proceeding to Macquarie Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Australia, recognised for its unique biodiversity and rich history.

Often referred to as the “Galápagos of the Southern Ocean,” New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands offer one of the most well-preserved and protected environments in the world. Towering cliffs, fields of colourful mega herbs, and black-sand beaches patrolled by penguins create a striking and unforgettable landscape. The skies are frequently graced by the majestic Royal Albatross, adding to the region’s otherworldly charm.

The return journey from Macquarie takes you to Campbell Island and Antipodes Island.

The expedition concludes back in Port Chalmers, Dunedin, leaving guests with a profound appreciation for one of the planet’s last great natural frontiers.

This voyage, although classified as an expedition cruise, the relaxed, yacht-like atmosphere created onboard the Ponant Le Soleal makes the journey all the more enjoyable. Le Soeal is designed for journeys of this type. The ship's crew and the expedition team are, without question, some of the best.

Lancegreen BEYOND.exp Subantarctic Voyage | Dunedin to Dunedin | January 10 - 26, 2026

Limited to | Maximum of ten (10) guests

https://viaggio.net.nz/ An extraordinary voyage