Day 1 — Lyttelton, New Zealand (via Christchurch)

Arrive in Christchurch, New Zealand’s “garden city,” and board the ship this afternoon in nearby Lyttelton before sailing south along the coast to Dunedin. (D)

Day 2 — Dunedin

Your first port of call is Dunedin, nestled at the base of the beautiful Otago Peninsula. Set off on a scenic train ride through the Taieri River Gorge; or explore Nature’s Wonder Reserve in a specially designed vehicle, looking for little blue and yellow-eyed penguins as well as breeding colonies of New Zealand fur seals. Alternatively, tour Dunedin, visiting its world-class botanical gardens and taking in the view from Mount Cargill. (B,L,D)

Day 3 — Dusky Sound and Doubtful Sound

Enter the stunning, glacier-carved waterways of Fiordland National Park, a World Heritage site known for its narrow fjords, vertical cliffs, and old-growth forests. Sail first into remote Dusky Sound and ride Zodiacs to get an up-close look at wildlife including endemic species such as the Fiordland crested penguin.  Continue north to the long and narrow Doubtful Sound, so named by Captain Cook, who questioned whether it was navigable when he arrived here in 1770. The ship will navigate Secretary Island as well as the adjacent Thompson Sound, and you’ll have the chance to explore by Zodiac, discovering spectacular waterfalls along the shores. (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Milford Sound

Your final stop in the Fiordlands is the incomparable Milford Sound, which meanders inland between the steep slopes of the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Spend the morning immersed in the sound’s natural majesty, taking in the views from on deck and setting out by Zodiac to spot fur seals and an array of birdlife native to New Zealand. This afternoon, the ship begins the voyage south to Ulva Island. (B,L,D)

Day 5 — At Sea

As you sail north along the coast, enjoy a leisurely day on board, taking advantage of the ship’s many amenities and joining your Smithsonian Journeys Experts for informative presentations. You might choose to indulge in a massage at the spa or meet the PONANT photographers to see images of the voyage so far. (B,L,D)

Day 6 — Picton

Go ashore at Picton to explore the Marlborough wine region, known especially for its crisp sauvignon blancs. Enjoy tasting tours at three wineries and visit a local chocolate maker. Or view an impressive collection of World War I and II aircraft at the Omaka Heritage Aviation Centre in Blenheim before a visit to a brewery and a confectionery shop. (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Napier

Awaken in Napier on the North Island and delve into the rich culture of the Māori people on a tour of their ancestral lands led by a Māori guide. Take part in a traditional greeting ceremony in the coastal village of Waimarama, and spend time with families, learning about their daily life, music, and age-old customs. Admire the art deco architecture of Napier before returning to the ship. (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Whakatane

Dock at Whakatane and head inland on one of two excursions. Encounter colorful mineral springs and geysers in Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland and Te Puia; and learn more about Māori culture through craft demonstrations and dances. Or visit a family-run farm to witness truffle hunting dogs at work and sample a host of truffle-infused foods paired with local wine and beer.  (B,L,D)

Day 9 - Auckland

Arrive in lovely Auckland and embark on a unique city tour. Or ride the ferry to beautiful Waiheke Island for a tour of several wineries and lunch. (B,L,D)

Auckland / Return Home

Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport or extend your stay. (B)