
2025 – Exploring Antarctica’s Ross Sea
Come join Lesley Whyte (photographer & adventurer) & fellow IAATO Antarctic Ambassador Darrel Day, a modern day explorer who conducts intrepid expeditions into the world’s most remote locations as we are heading back to the Ross Sea region of Antarctica, embarking on another expedition voyage.
You are invited to join us on our 22 night, fully escorted amazing adventure! We have chosen, what we believe is the very best operator – Ponant to partner with to bring you this spectacular expedition. This expedition starts at Dunedin 15th February 2025 and concludes back in Dunedin on 9th March 2025, onboard Ponant’s ice-strengthened expedition ship Le Soleal.
Darrel and Lesley are immensely excited to be working with Ponant, and only on this voyage we have an exceptional lineup of Antarctic explorer descendants, one of which is Philippa Ross, whose great, great, great grandfather, was Sir James Clark Ross. James was a true pioneer who sailed unchartered waters, discovering the Antarctic continent in what Amundsen described as ‘ponderous tubs’— a man who’s remembered as one of the most capable seamen the world has ever produced and a votary of science to whom Antarctic scientific exploration owes so much.
Places are limited, so early booking is strongly advised.
Where We’re Heading

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.
- 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.
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, 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.
Being part of our group, Lesley will be leading photography workshops throughout Suitable for beginners and smart phone users, she will be covering topics which will help you with capturing those amazing and awesome images. Lesley will be conducting image processing and printing workshops – you’ll be heading home with a selection of your images printed on processional and quality A3+ photographic paper. Don’t worry about your prints being damaged as you’ll receive a cardboard tube to transport your precious images home in.
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 and home to the huge Elephant seals, 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!
Prices & Payment Plan
Prestige deck 4 cabin – start at USD$23,900 per person (sharing in a twin or double cabin)
Payment Plan
- Deposit USD$500 on booking
- 1st Instalment – February 2024 – 20%
- 2nd instalment – Early April 2024 – 10%
- 3rd instalment – July 2024 – 50%.
- 4th instalment – Late November 2024 – 20% (less US$500 deposit paid)
Want to know more, please contact Lesley for a brochure or click here to download.
E: lesley@lesleywhytephotography.co.nz
M: 027 4747 347