Ponant and Relais & Châteaux have renewed their collaboration for 2023 with two voyages to New Zealand. They will be hosted by Chef Norka Mella Munoz of Wharekauhua Country Estate and Chef Jimmy McIntyre of Otahuna Lodge. Each chef will share their expertise and time in the galleys on Le Lapérouse, with demonstrations and gala dinners centered around their signature dishes featuring New Zealand cuisine.
The tropical expedition, New Zealand’s South Island and Chatham Islands, 25NOV - 03DEC, 2023, will welcome Chef Norka Mella Munoz onboard the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud.’ Departing from Wellington, New Zealand, Le Lapérouse will set sail to explore the South Island’s east coast with ports of call in the Marlborough Sounds. Travellers will also have the chance to experience Māori history and culture. Travellers have the option to book a four-day, three-night pre-voyage program at the Relais & Châteaux Wharekauhau Country Estate. This option offers an opportunity to experience local culture and gastronomy.
The voyage lasts for 9 days/ 8 nights, and prices start from USD $6,810 per person based on double occupancy.
Heading south, the second exclusive itinerary, Ancient fjords and unspoiled islands of southern New Zealand, hosted by New Zealand native Chef Jimmy McIntyre, will sail roundtrip from Dunedin along the shores of New Zealand’s South Island. This eight-day polar exploration voyage, 03-10DEC, 2023, reveals the wonders of the Fjordland National Park, an integral part of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site of fjords shaped by over 100,000 years of glaciations. The ship then heads for the Snares Islands, one of New Zealand’s sub antarctic archipelagos, before reaching Ulva Island, a predator-free sanctuary that provides a refuge for numerous species of birds and rare plants. Onboard meals will feature Jimmy’s “potager-to-plate” philosophy which makes use of 140 different varieties of organic fruits, mushrooms, nuts and vegetables grown annually in the Otahuna Lodge’s century-old gardens.
The voyage lasts for 8 days / 7 nights, and prices start from USD $6,670 per person based on double occupancy.
