EXPLORATION ELEVATED AUGUST 2027 - JUNE 2028 THE CARIBBEAN, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA THE ANTARCTIC • THE FAR NORTH • EUROPE & THE ATLANTIC ISLANDS AFRICA & THE INDIAN OCEAN • ASIA & THE PACIFIC ISLANDS
2
REIMAGINING TRAVEL At a time when almost every corner of the world has been mapped, I believe in a different approach to discovering the world, one that is attentive and engaged, based on observation, listening and the sharing of knowledge. Whether on board or ashore, exploration is everywhere, and is for everyone, in everything and at every moment. Watching the pack ice at daybreak; exchanging insights with our naturalist guides; savouring an exceptional wine… We seek emotions that are authentic. What new discoveries await us in 2027–2028? As a world exclusive, embark on the first complete circumnavigation of Antarctica. A pioneering and emotional expedition: 60 nights aboard our polar exploration ship, Le Commandant Charcot, along the 23,000 kilometres of virgin coastline of the White Continent. Let us show you the undiscovered Caribbean: the breathtaking landscapes of Monte Cristi in the Dominican Republic, where we are the only ones to make a stopover; the marine sanctuary of the Turks and Caicos Islands, home to the third-largest coral reef in the world; or the little-known landscapes of the Bahamas, with its pristine mangroves and natural blue holes. In the Philippines, discover two new itineraries in the unspoilt archipelago of the Visayas, in the heart of a constellation of 200 islands accessible only due to the shallow draught of our ships. Between idyllic beaches, tropical forests and rice paddies, encounter local communities whose lives are shaped by traditional fishing. Exploring is not just about travelling the world, but also about learning to read it more attentively and intensely. Discover journeys thoughtfully designed to offer rich and transformative experiences, such as encounters with the Kuna Indigenous community of the San Blas Islands, and many more. I wish you many wonderful explorations ahead.
Benoît-Étienne Domenget CEO of PONANT EXPLORATIONS
3
CONTENTS
4
10 reasons to sail with PONANT EXPLORATIONS
p. 8
Itinerary calendar
p. 18
The Antarctic
p. 24
The Antarctic aboard Le Commandant Charcot
p. 30
The Caribbean, Central & South America
p. 40
Europe & the Atlantic Islands
p. 54
Africa & the Indian Ocean
p. 62
Asia & Oceania
p. 70
Polynesia
p. 84
Aqua Expeditions
p. 94
Journeys of discovery
p. 96
Grand Voyages
p. 98
Welcome on board
p. 100
Formalities
p. 122
cruıse
cruıse
cruıse
READERS’ CHOICE 2025 WINNER
READERS’ CHOICE 2025 WINNER
READERS’ CHOICE 2024 WINNER
BEST ADVENTURE LINE
SUSTAINABILITY
BEST FOR
BEST FOR SHORE EXCURSIONS
passenger
passenger
passenger
5
EXPLORE THE WORLD
A lagoon-blue cradle At the heart of the Bahamas, the crystal-clear waters are home to exceptional biodiversity. You might be lucky enough to spot whales that, after migrating from the Arctic, head to these warm lagoons to give birth.
new
BAHAMAS Fort-de-France
Puntarenas
Atlantic Ocean
Colón
Pacific Ocean
Papeete
POLYNESIA
The little-known archipelagos of the Fenua* Come aboard Le Jacques Cartier for an immersion in under-the-radar Polynesian archipelagos: Mataiva, the ‘Island of Nine Eyes’ in Tuamotuan; the bird sanctuary of Raivavae; or explore the red-hued cliffs of Ua Huka. A sense of wonder awaits you. *Fenua: a polynesian word meaning Mother Earth, home.
Ushuaia
SOUTH GEORGIA Wildlife in all its glory With its hanging glaciers and black-sand beaches, the southern island is teeming with wildlife. In St Andrews Bay, more than 100,000 pairs of king penguins share the shoreline with sea lions and elephant seals.
6
Bergen
At the heart of Filipino traditions A glimpse into the daily lives of fishermen in the Visayas archipelago. Find out how they fish, build their traditional outrigger canoes and make fish traps. A process involving several stages: drying the plants, natural dyeing and weaving the fibres, right through to the finished product. Málaga
new
Las Palmas
Dakar
Osaka
Manila
Singapore
PHILIPPINES Darwin
Nosy Be
Atlantic Ocean
Richards Bay
Indian Ocean
MADAGASCAR
Hobart
A natural sanctuary between land and sea The waters of Nosy Hara National Park boast nearly 280 marine species. To the west, Morondava is famous for its avenue of giant baobabs, while at the far south of the island, Toliara’s forest is home to exceptional flora, with 90% endemic species.
Odyssey through uncharted territory With its first complete circumnavigation of the Antarctic, Le Commandant Charcot is set to offer exclusive access to the territories of the White Continent on a single expedition, from Charcot Island to Marie Byrd Land, terra nullius, via the shores of Queen Maud Land and Queen Mary Land. An unprecedented feat!
exclusive
ANTARCTICA
7
10 REASONS
to sail with PONANT EXPLORATIONS
8
level 1. High EXPERTISE Our experts have been exploring the world in search of natural and cultural wonders for more than 35 years. Each PONANT itinerary is designed to give you the opportunity to observe a wealth of wildlife or extraordinary landscapes, and to discover local cultures. All with the support of passionate experts.
9
2.
The art of TRAVELLING Each season, we design meaningful journeys centred around major themes. This 2027–2028 season, culture and the art of living come on board thanks to our renowned partners, represented by artists, researchers, lecturers and photographers. As the only sailing ship with the Relais & Châteaux label, Le Ponant will sail through the archipelagos of the Caribbean and Cape Verde on intimate voyages.
3.
The art of LIVING On board, enjoy the comfort and refined design of the common areas conceived by internationally renowned architects, Studio Jean-Philippe Nuel and Wilmotte & Associés. From hotel and restaurant managers to serving staff of all levels, not forgetting reception hosts, cabin attendants and butlers, the whole crew is ready and willing to lavish the care and attention required to ensure your peace of mind. Spas work hand in hand with renowned brands and warm and friendly restaurants and bars await you. The theatre provides the ideal location for film screenings, conferences and shows.
10
4.
A REFINED cuisine Delight your palate with a refined cuisine, developed in collaboration with Ducasse Conseil. On the menu you will find generous breakfasts, à la carte dishes and diverse buffets, home-made pastries, bread prepared on board, a selection of drinks to suit all tastes (vegan, alcoholic and nonalcoholic), along with a range of gourmet afternoon teas and luxury products. Our offer is evolving on Le Commandant Charcot thanks to the Nuna, Alain Ducasseʼs only gastronomic restaurant at sea , with a menu created by the Michelin-starred chef.
5.
A MODERN fleet As one of the few cruise companies to sail under the French flag, one of the safest in the world, we adhere to strict specifications regarding the training of our crews and compliance with health and safety protocols, and regular checks on our vessels. Our modestly sized ships have just
16 to 165 staterooms and are equipped with the most advanced technologies.
11
6.
Extensive INCLUSIONS Services included in your voyages:
• All inclusive from arrival to departure: French-inspired and international cuisine at all restaurants • Open bar for all drinks in restaurants, bars and minibars (excluding the premium menu) • 24-hour room service
• Unlimited Wi-Fi service on board • Conferences delivered by nature guides and guests of honour including historians, journalists, art curators, scientists and more depending on itinerary • Access to the fitness centre and steam room or sauna, depending on the ship
• Butler service in some suites • Entertainment including dance shows, film screenings, live music, presentations from chefs and sommeliers depending on itinerary
• Non-motorised water activities (excluding diving) such as kayaking or paddleboarding.
Each trip is designed as part of a collection – Timeless, Discovery or Expedition – each with a distinct approach, so you can experience the destination of your choice in the manner that best fits your desires. TIMELESS
DISCOVERY
EXPEDITION
ACTIVITIES
• One excursion per day and per person included. • Optional paid excursions are also available, depending on the stopover, and can be supervised by local guides.
• One excursion per day and per person included. • Optional paid excursions are also available, depending on the stopover, and can be supervised by local guides. • Activities supervised by the team of naturalist guides (depending on the destination) included and organised on board.
• All activities included, supervised and organised by the expedition team on board, made up of naturalist guides. • Optional paid excursions are also available, depending on the voyage.
DISEMBARKATIONS
• Quayside • By launch • Aboard local boats
• Quayside • By launch • Aboard local boats • By zodiac
• By zodiac
Option(s) vary by itinerary.
Option(s) vary by itinerary.
• The team in charge of excursions • One or more speakers
• The team of naturalist guides
EXPERTS ON BOARD
• Free parka and use of boots (depending on the voyage)
PARKA AND BOOTS
CHILDRENʼS ADMISSION
• The expedition team of naturalist guides
For children aged one year and over*
For children aged 6 and over*
For children aged 6 and over*
Your excursions Included or paid excursions: we offer you a selection of our favourites in this brochure. A price range is given for optional excursions: [ € ] = less than €50 | [ € € ] = €50 to €100 | [ € € € ] = €100 to €150 | [ € € € € ] = more than €150 *8 years on board Le Commandant Charcot. The program of all excursions, included or optional, is available 8 months before departure. Reservations are made approximately 3 months before departure. This information does not apply to Paul Gauguin or the ships of Aqua Expeditions.
12
7.
Working towards more RESPONSIBLE tourism By way of our Foundation and our PONANT Blue Horizon and PONANT Science programs, we strive to reduce our environmental footprint on terrestrial and marine environments (hybrid propulsion, recycling and waste and water treatment, elimination of single-use plastics, etc.). With laboratories available to science teams on board Le Commandant Charcot, we contribute to international scientific research . Sustainable development also shapes the knowledge we share with our guests, who are the ambassadors of each region we visit.
8.
CONSCIOUS travels In the Arctic and the Antarctic, we are members of IAATO and AECO: associations that bring together different stakeholders in the polar regions to promote more responsible tourism. We have also made commitments at an international level, and are proud to be part of the UN programto ban single-use plastics. We have earned numerous accreditations as a result of our actions, and our entire fleet has been awarded Cleanship certification by Bureau Veritas.
Check out all our actions on our website.
13
9.
Go the extra mile with PONANT PLUS With PONANT PLUS you can book private excursions, hotel nights or flights with the help of your dedicated PONANT concierge team. For certain hard-to-reach destinations, we offer private flights and land transportation to ensure your safe and serene arrival at the port of embarkation. Contact our concierge team at concierge.aus@ponant.com Finally, download the PONANT application, and let us guide you during the preparation of your trip, then throughout your time on board.
14
10.
Customised BENEFITS
FREE SOLO SUPPLEMENT Whether you're planning to embark on a solo adventure, travel with a group of friends, or seek some peace and serenity, you can enjoy the space of your own double stateroom at no extra cost*! Simply scan the QR code below and select from hundreds of departures including the Kimberley, Europe, Antarctica, French Polynesia, New Zealand and more!
*The double cabin supplement for single use is available on a limited number of cabins and is subject to cabin category. Offer valid on selected voyages only. Visit au.ponant.com or contact your preferred travel agent.
15
CONSECUTIVE VOYAGES TRAVEL LONGER & SAVE with a Grand Voyage
Keep the adventure going by combining several back to back voyages and enjoy exclusive savings on a selection of itineraries with up to 20% off every departure. #
Visit the website to view all included cruises.
All sailings must be booked under the same booking reference and on the same ship, with the second sailing departing the day immediately following the first. The discount applies to the cruise-only fare only, excluding port taxes and fees, is not valid on ocean voyages, is subject to availability at the time of booking, and cannot be combined with travel agent rates or any other promotional offers. #
16 16
JOIN THE PONANT YACHT CLUB Save 5%* when you complete your second voyage and become a PONANT Yacht Club member! As a member, you’ll unlock a world of exclusive benefits from onboard credit and complimentary laundry service, to future booking discounts and exclusive experiences both on board and ashore.
For more information about the PONANT Yacht Club, please scan the QR code.
REFER US TO YOUR FRIENDS & FAMILY As a referrer, you will receive an AU$800 discount# per stateroom on your next voyage (as soon as your referral is booked). Your referee also benefits from a AU$800 reduction# on their first voyage. As the number of referrals is not limited, you can accumulate your discounts. To take advantage of this offer, email reservations.aus@ponant.com with details of the person to be referred.
Please scan this QR code for more information. Offers indicated are subject to change without notice. *Conditions apply. #The referrer must have already sailed on a PONANT ship. The person being referred cannot have previously sailed on a PONANT ship. Visit au.ponant.com/ponant-benefits for all terms and conditions.
17
ITINERARY CALENDAR Discover a diverse selection of itineraries through our brochure and explore even more extraordinary voyages on our website.
18
THE ANTARCTIC Departure
Ship
Itinerary
28th October 2027
L'Austral
3rd November 2027
Le Lyrial
Nights
| COLLECTION |
Page
Valparaíso • Ushuaia
14
| EXPEDITION |
29
Valparaíso • Ushuaia
14
| EXPEDITION |
29
28th November 2027 Le Boréal
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
10
| EXPEDITION |
28
17th December 2027 Le Lyrial
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
17
| EXPEDITION |
28
28th December 2027 Le Boréal
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
10
| EXPEDITION |
28
3rd January 2028
Le Lyrial
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
10
| EXPEDITION |
28
7th January 2028
Le Boréal
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
10
| EXPEDITION |
28
13th January 2028
Le Lyrial
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
10
| EXPEDITION |
28
28th January 2028
Le Boréal
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
17
| EXPEDITION |
28
2nd February 2028
Le Lyrial
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
10
| EXPEDITION |
28
12th February 2028
Le Lyrial
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
10
| EXPEDITION |
28
22nd February 2028
Le Lyrial
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
10
| EXPEDITION |
28
24th February 2028
Le Boréal
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
17
| EXPEDITION |
28
3rd March 2028
Le Lyrial
Ushuaia • Buenos Aires
18
| EXPEDITION |
29
THE ANTARCTIC ABOARD LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT Departure
Ship
Itinerary
27th October 2027
Le Commandant Charcot
8th November 2027
Nights
| COLLECTION |
Page
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
12
| EXPEDITION |
38
Le Commandant Charcot
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
12
| EXPEDITION |
38
20th November 2027 Le Commandant Charcot
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
12
| EXPEDITION |
38
2nd December 2027 Le Commandant Charcot
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
14
| EXPEDITION |
38
16th December 2027 Le Commandant Charcot
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
12
| EXPEDITION |
38
28th December 2027 Le Commandant Charcot
Ushuaia • Ushuaia
14
| EXPEDITION |
38
11th January 2028
Le Commandant Charcot
Ushuaia • Hobart
29
| EXPEDITION |
37
11th February 2028
Le Commandant Charcot
Hobart • Ushuaia
30
| EXPEDITION |
37
19
THE CARIBBEAN, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA Departure
20
Ship
Itinerary
Nights
| COLLECTION |
Page
19th November 2027 Le Bellot
Fort-de-France • Colón
9
| TIMELESS |
48
28th November 2027 Le Bellot
Colón • Puntarenas
10
| EXPEDITION |
47
1st December 2027
Le Champlain
Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France
7
| TIMELESS |
49
2nd December 2027
Le Bougainville
Colón • Puntarenas
10
| EXPEDITION |
47
6th December 2027
Le Ponant
Pointe-à-Pitre • Marigot
7
| TIMELESS |
52
8th December 2027
Le Bellot
Puntarenas • Puntarenas
7
| DISCOVERY |
46
8th December 2027
Le Champlain
Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France
7
| TIMELESS |
49
12th December 2027 Le Bougainville
Puntarenas • Puntarenas
7
| DISCOVERY |
46
13th December 2027 Le Ponant
Marigot • Marigot
7
| TIMELESS |
52
15th December 2027 Le Bellot
Puntarenas • Colón
10
| EXPEDITION |
47
15th December 2027 Le Champlain
Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France
7
| TIMELESS |
49
19th December 2027 Le Bougainville
Puntarenas • Colón
10
| EXPEDITION |
47
20th December 2027 Le Ponant
Marigot • Pointe-à-Pitre
7
| TIMELESS |
52
22nd December 2027 Le Champlain
Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France
7
| TIMELESS |
49
25th December 2027 Le Bellot
Colón • Puntarenas
10
| EXPEDITION |
47
27th December 2027 Le Ponant
Pointe-à-Pitre • Pointe-à-Pitre
7
| TIMELESS |
52
29th December 2027 Le Bougainville
Colón • Puntarenas
7
| TIMELESS |
47
29th December 2027 Le Champlain
Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France
7
| TIMELESS |
49
3rd January 2028
Le Ponant
Pointe-à-Pitre • Marigot
7
| TIMELESS |
52
4th January 2028
Le Bellot
Puntarenas • Puntarenas
7
| DISCOVERY |
46
5th January 2028
Le Bougainville
Puntarenas • Colón
7
| TIMELESS |
47
5th January 2028
Le Champlain
Fort-de-France • La Romana
7
| TIMELESS |
51
10th January 2028
Le Ponant
Marigot • Pointe-à-Pitre
7
| TIMELESS |
52
11th January 2028
Le Bellot
Puntarenas • Puntarenas
7
| DISCOVERY |
46
12th January 2028
Le Champlain
La Romana • Nassau
7
| DISCOVERY |
51
17th January 2028
Le Ponant
Pointe-à-Pitre • Pointe-à-Pitre
7
| TIMELESS |
52
19th January 2028
Le Champlain
Nassau • La Romana
7
| DISCOVERY |
51
24th January 2028
Le Ponant
Pointe-à-Pitre • Marigot
7
| TIMELESS |
52
25th January 2028
Le Bellot
Cabo San Lucas • Cabo San Lucas
10
| DISCOVERY |
45
26th January 2028
Le Champlain
La Romana • Nassau
7
| DISCOVERY |
51
31st January 2028
Le Ponant
Marigot • Marigot
7
| TIMELESS |
52
2nd February 2028
Le Champlain
Nassau • La Romana
7
| DISCOVERY |
51
4th February 2028
Le Bellot
Cabo San Lucas • Cabo San Lucas
10
| DISCOVERY |
45
7th February 2028
Le Ponant
Marigot • Pointe-à-Pitre
7
| TIMELESS |
52
9th February 2028
Le Champlain
La Romana • Fort-de-France
7
| TIMELESS |
51
14th February 2028
Le Ponant
Pointe-à-Pitre • Pointe-à-Pitre
7
| TIMELESS |
52
16th February 2028
Le Champlain
Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France
7
| TIMELESS |
49
21st February 2028
Le Ponant
Pointe-à-Pitre • Marigot
7
| TIMELESS |
52
23rd February 2028
Le Bougainville
Puntarenas • Colón
10
| EXPEDITION |
47
24th February 2028
Le Bellot
Cabo San Lucas • Cabo San Lucas
10
| DISCOVERY |
45
28th February 2028
Le Ponant
Marigot • Marigot
7
| TIMELESS |
52
1st March 2028
Le Champlain
Vieux Fort • Vieux Fort
7
| TIMELESS |
49
THE CARIBBEAN, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA Departure
Ship
4th March 2028
Le Bougainville
5th March 2028
Nights
| COLLECTION |
Page
Colón • Fort-de-France
12
| TIMELESS |
48
Le Bellot
Cabo San Lucas • Cabo San Lucas
10
| DISCOVERY |
45
6th March 2028
Le Ponant
Marigot • Pointe-à-Pitre
7
| TIMELESS |
52
8th March 2028
Le Champlain
Vieux Fort • Vieux Fort
7
| TIMELESS |
49
13th March 2028
Le Ponant
Pointe-à-Pitre • Pointe-à-Pitre
7
| TIMELESS |
52
15th March 2028
Le Bellot
Cabo San Lucas • Cabo San Lucas
10
| DISCOVERY |
45
15th March 2028
Le Champlain
Vieux Fort • Vieux Fort
7
| TIMELESS |
49
18th March 2028
Le Boréal
Buenos Aires • Rio de Janeiro
10
| TIMELESS |
44
20th March 2028
Le Ponant
Pointe-à-Pitre • Marigot
7
| TIMELESS |
52
27th March 2028
Le Ponant
Marigot • Marigot
7
| TIMELESS |
52
1st April 2028
Le Bellot
Puntarenas • Colón
10
| EXPEDITION |
47
3rd April 2028
Le Ponant
Marigot • Pointe-à-Pitre
7
| TIMELESS |
52
11th April 2028
Le Bellot
Colón • Fort-de-France
12
| TIMELESS |
48
Nights
| COLLECTION |
Page
Itinerary
EUROPE & THE ATLANTIC ISLANDS Departure
Ship
Itinerary
26th October 2027
Le Ponant
Mindelo • Mindelo
7
| TIMELESS |
61
1st November 2027
Le Champlain
Las Palmas • Las Palmas
10
| TIMELESS |
59
1st November 2027
Le Lapérouse
Málaga • Athens
9
| TIMELESS |
60
2nd November 2027
Le Ponant
Mindelo • Mindelo
7
| TIMELESS |
61
9th November 2027
Le Ponant
Mindelo • Mindelo
7
| TIMELESS |
61
11th November 2027 Le Champlain
Las Palmas • Las Palmas
10
| TIMELESS |
59
16th November 2027 Le Ponant
Mindelo • Mindelo
7
| TIMELESS |
61
25th November 2027 Le Dumont d'Urville
Las Palmas • Dakar
10
| TIMELESS |
60
21st February 2028
Le Lapérouse
Brest • Tromsø
11
| TIMELESS |
58
24th March 2028
Le Dumont d'Urville
Dakar • Las Palmas
10
| TIMELESS |
60
Nights
| COLLECTION |
Page 66
AFRICA & THE INDIAN OCEAN Departure
Ship
Itinerary
16th December 2027 Le Dumont d'Urville
Walvis Bay • Richards Bay
11
| TIMELESS |
27th December 2027 Le Dumont d'Urville
Richards Bay • Nosy Be
11
| DISCOVERY |
67
17th January 2028
Le Dumont d'Urville
Mahé • Mahé
8
| EXPEDITION |
69
25th January 2028
Le Dumont d'Urville
Mahé • Mahé
8
| EXPEDITION |
69
2nd February 2028
Le Dumont d'Urville
Mahé • Mahé
8
| EXPEDITION |
69
20th February 2028
Le Dumont d'Urville
Nosy Be • Durban
11
| DISCOVERY |
68
21
ASIA & OCEANIA Departure
Ship
Itinerary
28th August 2027
Le Soléal
4th September 2027
Le Jacques Cartier
Nights
| COLLECTION |
Page
Darwin • Manila
14
| EXPEDITION |
81
Darwin • Lautoka
16
| EXPEDITION |
83
11th September 2027 Le Soléal
Manila • Keelung
9
| TIMELESS |
78
20th September 2027 Le Soléal
Keelung • Osaka
9
| TIMELESS |
76
29th September 2027 Le Soléal
Osaka • Busan
8
| TIMELESS |
74
7th October 2027
Le Soléal
Busan • Osaka
8
| TIMELESS |
74
23rd October 2027
Le Soléal
Busan • Manila
13
| TIMELESS |
77
5th November 2027
Le Soléal
Manila • Singapore
12
| TIMELESS |
79
11th December 2027 Le Soléal
Singapore • Phuket
8
| TIMELESS |
80
19th December 2027 Le Soléal
Phuket • Singapore
8
| TIMELESS |
80
27th December 2027 Le Soléal
Singapore • Hong Kong
13
| TIMELESS |
81
9th January 2028
Le Soléal
Hong Kong • Singapore
13
| TIMELESS |
81
21st January 2028
Le Jacques Cartier
Lautoka • Honiara
13
| EXPEDITION |
83
22nd January 2028
Le Soléal
Singapore • Manila
12
| TIMELESS |
79
3rd February 2028
Le Jacques Cartier
Honiara • Koror
15
| EXPEDITION |
82
3rd February 2028
Le Soléal
Manila • Manila
8
| DISCOVERY |
78
11th February 2028
Le Soléal
Manila • Manila
8
| DISCOVERY |
79
18th February 2028
Le Jacques Cartier
Koror • Manila
8
| DISCOVERY |
82
19th February 2028
Le Soléal
Manila • Manila
8
| DISCOVERY |
78
26th February 2028
Le Jacques Cartier
Manila • Tokyo
14
| TIMELESS |
76
27th February 2028
Le Soléal
Manila • Osaka
11
| TIMELESS |
76
9th March 2028
Le Soléal
Osaka • Busan
8
| TIMELESS |
74
11th March 2028
Le Jacques Cartier
Tokyo • Busan
12
| TIMELESS |
75
17th March 2028
Le Soléal
Busan • Osaka
8
| TIMELESS |
74
16th April 2028
Le Jacques Cartier
Busan • Manila
12
| TIMELESS |
77
28th April 2028
Le Jacques Cartier
Manila • Singapore
12
| TIMELESS |
79
4th May 2028
Le Soléal
Busan • Osaka
8
| TIMELESS |
74
12th May 2028
Le Soléal
Osaka • Busan
8
| TIMELESS |
74
20th May 2028
Le Soléal
Busan • Manila
12
| TIMELESS |
77
1st June 2028
Le Soléal
Manila • Darwin
14
| EXPEDITION |
81
Nights
| COLLECTION |
Page
Lautoka • Papeete
13
| TIMELESS |
88
POLYNESIA Departure
Ship
20th September 2027 Le Jacques Cartier
22
Itinerary
6th October 2027
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
10
92
16th October 2027
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
17th October 2027
Le Jacques Cartier
Papeete • Papeete
14
23rd October 2027
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
30th October 2027
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
| DISCOVERY |
88
POLYNESIA Departure
Ship
Itinerary
31st October 2027
Le Jacques Cartier
6th November 2027
Paul Gauguin
Nights
| COLLECTION |
Page
Papeete • Papeete
14
| DISCOVERY |
89
Papeete • Papeete
11
14th November 2027 Le Jacques Cartier
Papeete • Papeete
14
17th November 2027 Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
10
92
27th November 2027 Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
28th November 2027 Le Jacques Cartier
Papeete • Papeete
14
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
11th December 2027 Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
12th December 2027 Le Jacques Cartier
Papeete • Papeete
14
18th December 2027 Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
11
26th December 2027 Le Jacques Cartier
Papeete • Papeete
14
29th December 2027 Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
10
92
8th January 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
11
92
9th January 2028
Le Jacques Cartier
Papeete • Lautoka
12
19th January 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
10
92
5th February 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
12th February 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
14
93
26th February 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
4th March 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
11th March 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
11
92
22nd March 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
10
92
1st April 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
8th April 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
7
91
15th April 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
11
92
26th April 2028
Paul Gauguin
Papeete • Papeete
10
92
4th December 2027
92 | DISCOVERY |
| DISCOVERY |
| DISCOVERY |
89
89
89 92
| DISCOVERY |
| TIMELESS |
89
88
GRAND VOYAGES Departure
Ship
Itinerary
28th August 2027
Le Soléal
4th September 2027 23rd February 2028
Nights
Page
Darwin • Osaka
32
99
Le Jacques Cartier
Darwin • Papeete
29
99
Le Bougainville
Puntarenas • Fort-de-France
22
98
23
24
THE ANTARCTIC At every moment, silence, light and vastness redefine exploration.
25
IN PERSPECTIVE
Renewing an acquaintance with the untamed South Georgia Exposed to some of the world’s most powerful winds and currents, South Georgia is a unique territory, teeming with life. Biologist and naturalist guide Petra Glardon has been exploring the region for 20 years. She accompanies our guests as they discover this wild sanctuary, offering a different perspective and revealing its singular character. “Exploring South Georgia is a profoundly moving experience. The landscapes take on truly unique forms. You encounter snow-capped peaks, glaciers plunging into fjords, surprisingly lush valleys and long pebble beaches. The contrast between pristine ice, green landscapes and turquoise waters is very striking. “In this small territory, which boasts a spectacular density of wildlife, we have the privilege of immersing ourselves in untamed nature, far removed from the hurly-burly of modern life. Each day brings its share of the unexpected and is shaped by the elements and the movements of the animals. Almost the entire population of Antarctic fur seals gathers here, along with thousands of elephant seals, king penguins and seabirds. This profusion of vibrant life creates magical wild scenes and engages all the senses, the sounds building into ever more powerful choruses as we approach by zodiac. “The encounters with wildlife are particularly memorable. These animals do not fear humans and their curiosity often leads them to approach us, although we must keep a respectful distance so as not to disturb the natural balance.
Petra Glardon Biologist and naturalist guide
26
“What I love most about these journeys is that there’s always room for surprises. Unexpected behaviours, rare sightings and interactions between animals never seen before. I really love sharing these unique moments with the guests and explaining what they are witnessing. Observation then becomes understanding, and the adventure takes on a new dimension.”
SEASONAL CURIOSITIES
Book tip In his delightfully eccentric novel In Patagonia, travel writer Bruce Chatwin introduces us to a colourful cast of characters – real and imagined – who cross paths in the far south. Itineraries p. 28–29.
The black-browed albatross It looks like it is wearing elegant ‘smoky eye’ makeup. This pelagic bird spends most of its life in the sub-Antarctic regions, particularly in the Falkland Islands, where it breeds in colonies. Riding the winds with effortless ease thanks to its 2.5-metre wingspan, it is one of the few of its species to venture into the Northern Hemisphere. Itineraries: The Great Austral loop, p. 28 ; Falklands, South Georgia & Valdés Peninsula: In the heart of the wilderness, p. 29
The extraordinary wildlife of Valdés Bordering the waters of the Atlantic, the steppes of the Valdés Peninsula are home to wildlife found nowhere else in the world. Here, the gigantic Patagonian mara rubs shoulders with the astonishing pichi and the Patagonian skunk. A cousin of the llama, the guanaco carefully avoids the Argentine grey fox, and the puma, the apex predator of South America. Itinerary: Falklands, South Georgia & Valdés Peninsula: in the heart of the wilderness, p. 29
BedMachine Antarctica The lighthouses of Magellan Stretching 611 kilometres, the Strait of Magellan connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. The meeting of their tides, combined with sudden, unpredictable gusts of wind, makes navigation particularly hazardous. From Punta Dungeness to the Evangelistas Archipelago, no fewer than 27 lighthouses and nine beacons line the waterway to ensure its safety. Itinerary: The best of Chilean fjords, p. 29
By combining a range of geophysical methods, an unknown landscape is revealed in unprecedented detail for the first time. The BedMachine Antarctica map portrays the topography of the White Continent beneath its 27 million km³ of ice: high mountain ranges, 30,000 hills, deep canyons – including a 400-kilometre-long channel – as well as a multitude of islands and archipelagos. Itineraries: Emblematic Antarctica and The Great Austral loop, p. 28
27
| EXPEDITION |
ARGENTINA
Buenos Aires Ushuaia
Emblematic Antarctica
Drake Passage
Ushuaia • Ushuaia | 12 days/10 nights on board | Le Boréal: 28th November and 28th December 2027, 7th January 2028 | Le Lyrial: 3rd and 13th January and 2nd, 12th and 22nd February 2028 | from AU$21,150(1) South Shetlands
Explore the Antarctic Peninsula, a magnificent natural setting of sea ice, icebergs, glaciers and snow-capped mountains, perfect for a first taste of the White Continent • Wildlife: humpback whales, gentoo, Adélie and chinstrap penguins, leopard, crabeater and Weddell seals, seabirds • Activities: zodiac outing and landings with your naturalist guides, hikes and kayaking.
Weddell Sea
ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
Included in your voyage (2): return flights Buenos Aires/ Ushuaia, one night’s accommodation in a hotel in Buenos Aires the night before embarkation, and transfers.
| EXPEDITION |
Flights Buenos Aires
The Great Austral loop Ushuaia • Ushuaia | 19 days/17 nights on board | Le Lyrial: 17th December 2027 | Le Boréal: 28th January and 24th February 2028 | from AU$30,510(1) Polar exploration of the archipelagos of the Southern Ocean – the Falkland Islands and South Georgia – and the Antarctic Peninsula • Landscapes: black-sand beaches, moorlands, glaciers, sea ice, snow-capped peaks • Wildlife: colonies of king penguins, elephant seals, whales • Activities: zodiac outing and landings with your naturalist guides, hikes and kayaking.
Atlantic Ocean
Grave Cove
ARGENTINA
SOUTH GEORGIA
FALKLAND ISLANDS New Island
Ushuaia
Drake Passage
Weddell Sea ANTARCTIC PENINSULA
28th January 2028 departure: activities and lectures given by an expert from The Explorers Club.
28
Included in your voyage (2): return flights Buenos Aires/ Ushuaia, one night’s accommodation in a hotel in Buenos Aires the night before embarkation, and transfers.
| EXPEDITION |
Buenos Aires
Falklands, South Georgia & Valdés Peninsula: in the heart of the wilderness
Atlantic Ocean
ARGENTINA
Ushuaia • Buenos Aires | 20 days/18 nights on board | Le Lyrial: 3rd March 2028 | from AU$29,710(1)
Puerto Madryn Camarones
Polar exploration of three distinct ecosystems: South Georgia, the Falkland Islands and the UNESCO-listed Valdés Peninsula, discovering a unique biodiversity • Landscapes: hanging glaciers, black-sand beaches, cliffs, lichen-covered moors, desert steppes • Wildlife: penguins, elephant seals, orcas, fin whales, guanacos • Activities: zodiac outings and landings and hikes with naturalist guides, kayaking.
Carcass Island The Neck, Saunders Island Steeple Jason Island West Point Island
SOUTH GEORGIA
Volunteer Point Port Stanley
FALKLAND ISLANDS
Ushuaia
Included in your voyage (2): flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia, one night’s accommodation in a hotel in Buenos Aires the night before embarkation, and transfers.
| EXPEDITION |
Valparaíso
South Pacific Ocean
The best of Chilean fjords Valparaíso • Ushuaia | 15 days/14 nights | L’Austral: 28th October 2027 | Le Lyrial: 3rd November 2027 | from AU$18,080(1)
CHILE
Quemchi
Pulluche Canal
From the Chilean canals to Tierra del Fuego, an adventure at the end of the world, amid snow-capped mountains, gigantic glaciers, crystal-clear lakes and remote villages • Sailing through legendary locations: the Avenue of the Glaciers, the Strait of Magellan, Cape Horn • Wildlife: penguins, caracaras, dolphins, whales • Activities: zodiac outings and landings and hikes with naturalist guides, kayaking.
ARGENTINA Tortel Pie XI Glacier El Brujo Glacier
Estero las Montañas
Flight to Buenos Aires
Skua Glacier
Agostini Glacier Garibaldi Glacier
Strait of Magellan Ushuaia Puerto Williams
Cape Horn
Included in your voyage (2): flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires and transfer on the day of disembarkation.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Exploring Iguazú Falls After your voyage | Ushuaia • 3 nights (3) Immerse yourself in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Iguazú Falls National Park, and discover the riches of both the Brazilian and Argentinian sides, amid subtropical forests with a stunning array of flora and fauna. The ultimate treat, your hotel, Gran Melía Iguazú, is ideally located at the gateway to the park, offering you a contemplative and intimate experience.
29
30
THE ANTARCTIC ABOARD LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT On the edge of an uninhabited world, nature reigns supreme, revealing the extraordinary.
31
Le Commandant Charcot The world's only luxury icebreaker taking you beyond exploration
the 1. Reaching inaccessible Le Commandant Charcot is the worldʼs only passenger ship equipped with a Polar Class
2 (PC2) hull. By way of comparison, the most powerful ships are classified as PC1, and there are no passenger ships of this kind. You therefore benefit from sailing in multi-year
ice, inaccessible to other ships for much of the year.
32
expertise 2. Exclusivity, and immersion Le Commandant Charcot is the worldʼs only passenger ship capable of navigating through
the heart of the pack ice, and, in 2027–2028 – a world first! – it will undertake a complete circumnavigation of Antarctica (find out more on p. 36).
You therefore benefit from a true immersion
in inaccessible territories where wildlife reigns supreme, amid ice and icebergs, thanks to a wide range of activities – ice landings, snowshoe treks, kayaking, polar diving – supervised by the team of naturalist guides.
invisible 3. An frontier Le Commandant Charcot is the worldʼs only passenger ship to offer staterooms and suites,
all with balconies or terraces, and common areas that are largely open to the outside, all a guarantee of the highest level of comfort and safety in the polar environment. You therefore benefit from a total connection
with the grandiose surrounding landscapes, from every part of the ship, including the spa, the indoor pool or the various lounges and restaurants.
respectful 5. More sailings Le Commandant Charcot is the world’s only icebreaker cruise ship to incorporate a number
of the most advanced technologies, combining electric propulsion and liquefied natural gas, aimed at reducing its environmental footprint as much as possible. It also has two research laboratories, open to international scientists, on behalf of renowned research institutes including Ifremer, GEOMAR and the Alfred Wegener Institute. You therefore benefit from an understanding,
in situ, of the issues encountered in the regions visited, due to exchanges with researchers.
4.
Gastronomy by Alain Ducasse
The ship is Green Globe certified, the internationally recognised benchmark for sustainable tourism.
Le Commandant Charcot is the worldʼs only passenger ship to offer Alain Ducasseʼs
cuisine at sea, and in such isolated regions, in the gastronomic restaurant Nuna (the Earth, in Inuit).
You therefore benefit from a menu devised
by the Michelin-starred chef, as well as some of his signature dishes, while enjoying refined tableware that attains a level of excellence unrivalled in the polar regions.
33
IN PERSPECTIVE
In the wake of the ice: a pioneering route They helped chart this unprecedented route, stretching nearly 23.000 kilometres along the ice-bound coasts of the Antarctic continent, which remains largely unexplored. Three captains, experts in navigating through ice, recount how this voyage forms part of the great history of polar exploration.
Captain
Patrick Marchesseau “Going where others do not, opening new routes, and continuing to inspire those passionate about the polar worlds has been the ambition of PONANT EXPLORATIONS since the company’s beginnings. Thanks to the icebreaking capabilities and autonomy of Le Commandant Charcot, we can now achieve the feat of tracing our way around the ice shelves that surround this magnificent White Continent.”
34
Captain
Stanislas Devorsine “In the 2010s, when I was captain aboard L’Astrolabe, the supply ship for the Dumont-d’Urville scientific base, I realised just how difficult it was to reach the east coast of Antarctica, and yet I was already dreaming of a circumnavigation. Today, I am delighted to have contributed to the development of this itinerary that our guests will discover, and to allow scientists to study areas that are never frequented.”
SEASONAL CURIOSITIES
The emperor of Snow Hill In the remote Weddell Sea, Snow Hill Island is a kingdom of its own: home to the majestic emperor penguins. Discovered in 1997, the colony numbers around 2,000 breeding pairs and thousands of chicks. Aptenodytes forsteri breeds on sea ice during the austral winter, transforming the ‘mountain of snow’ into a giant nursery. Itineraries: Unexplored Eastern Antarctica between two continents, p. 37; Setting sail for the ice of the mythical Weddell Sea, p. 38
Magnetic pole reversal Since the dawn of time, this fascinating scientific phenomenon has been periodically triggered by movements within Earth’s core, with the most recent reversal occurring around 780,000 years ago. Unlike their fixed geographical counterparts, the North and South magnetic poles are in constant motion and may gradually drift towards one another, sometimes leading to a complete reversal of polarity – quite literally causing compasses to lose their way. Itinerary: Unexplored Eastern Antarctica between two continents, p. 37
The first ice core Glimpsed by James Cook in 1774 and explored as early as 1946, Marie Byrd Land is one of the few terrae nullius on our planet: it is not claimed by any state. In 1968, the first ice core was extracted from the depths of the Antarctic ice sheet here. An invaluable treasure, this cylindrical sample acts as a veritable time machine. Itinerary: Unexplored Western Antarctica between two continents, p. 37
Book tip Captain
Étienne Garcia “Le Commandant Charcot is the only passenger ship in the world equipped with PC2 icebreaking capabilities. This allows it to navigate safely through the ice and follow the continent’s coastline to complete a true circumnavigation, crossing the Weddell Sea from east to west for the first time, following in the footsteps of Sir Ernest Shackleton.”
The sublime photographs of Vincent Munier and Laurent Ballesta portray Adélie Land and its ‘inhabitants’ in a distinctive style, close to painting. Adélie, Land and Sea — Paulsen & Kobalann Editions Itinerary: Unexplored Eastern Antarctica between two continents, p. 37
35
In 2028, become part of the legend Le Commandant Charcot, the only passenger ship in the world capable of navigating through the heart of the pack ice, is preparing for the ultimate voyage: its first complete circumnavigation of Antarctica. Are you ready to come aboard?
36
| EXPEDITION |
Unexplored Western Antarctica between two continents
Flight Santiago Drake Passage
ARGENTINA
Antarctic Peninsula Marguerite Bay
Ushuaia • Hobart | 31 days/29 nights on board | Le Commandant Charcot: 11th January 2028 | from AU$102,580(1) In the footsteps of the greatest polar explorers – Charcot, Shackleton, Ross, Amundsen – an exploration of little-known lands and islands around the Antarctic continent • Cruising along the Ross Ice Shelf • The world’s largest marine sanctuary, home to whales, orcas, seals, penguins and petrels • Activities: zodiac outings and landings with a reinforced team of naturalist guides, polar trekking on foot, snowshoes or skis, kayaking, and polar diving without a wetsuit.
Ushuaia
Ice Floe
Antarctic Circle
Charcot Island
Marie Byrd Land
South Pole
Ice Shelf
Ross Sea
ANTARCTICA
Balleny Islands
Hobart
AUSTRALIA
Included in your voyage (2): flight Santiago/Ushuaia, one night’s accommodation in a hotel in Santiago the night before embarkation, transfers.
| EXPEDITION |
Hobart • Ushuaia | 31 days/30 nights on board | Le Commandant Charcot: 11th February 2028 | from AU$112,590(1) Historical exploration, following in the footsteps of the South Pole pioneers, along the eastern Antarctic coast • Discover little-known lands: George V Land, Queen Mary Land and Queen Maud Land • Sailing to the South Magnetic Pole and off the coast of the site where the Endurance was wrecked • Wildlife: whales, orcas, seals, petrels and penguins • Activities: zodiac outings and landings with a reinforced team of naturalist guides, polar trekking on foot, snowshoes or skis, kayaking, and polar diving without a wetsuit.
Flight Santiago
Ushuaia
Antarctic Peninsula Antarctic Circle
ARGENTINA Endurance wreck site Weddell Sea Indian Ocean Ice Floe
ANTARCTICA South Pole
Queen Maud Land
George V Land Magnetic South Pole Pacific Ocean
Adélie Land Hobart
Wilkes Land
AUSTRALIA
NEW
Unexplored Eastern Antarctica between two continents
Queen Mary Land Southern Ocean
Included in your voyage (2): flight Ushuaia/Santiago, and transfer.
37
| EXPEDITION |
Setting sail for the ice of the mythical Weddell Sea
Ushuaia
Flights Santiago (Chile)
ARGENTINA
Ushuaia • Ushuaia | 14 days/12 nights on board | Le Commandant Charcot: 27th October, 8th and 20th November and 16th December 2027 | from AU$37,800(1)
Drake Passage
North Antarctic Peninsula
Explore the almost inaccessible Weddell Sea • The dreamlike polar landscapes: sea ice, glaciers, icebergs • Wildlife: whales, orcas, seals, penguins and seabirds • Activities: zodiac outings and landings with a reinforced team of naturalist guides, polar hiking on foot or with snowshoes, kayaking, and polar diving without a wetsuit.
Weddell Sea Pack ice
27th October 2027 departure: activities and lectures given by an expert of The Explorers Club.
Included in your voyage (2): return flight Santiago/Ushuaia, one night’s accommodation in a hotel in Santiago the night before embarkation, and transfers.
| EXPEDITION |
Flights Santiago (Chile)
Ushuaia
ARGENTINA
Beyond the Antarctic Circle: In the wake of Jean-Baptiste Charcot
Drake Passage
Ushuaia • Ushuaia | 16 days/14 nights on board | Le Commandant Charcot: 2nd and 28th December 2027 | from AU$49,300(1)
Antarctic Peninsula
Antarctic Circle Bellingshausen Sea
Polar exploration following in the footsteps of Jean-Baptiste Charcot’s expeditions, as far as the Bellingshausen Sea, beyond the Antarctic Circle • A spectacular, unspoilt world of endless pack ice and majestic icebergs, inhabited by whales, orcas, penguins, seals and seabirds • Activities: zodiac outings and landings with a reinforced team of naturalist guides, polar hiking on foot or with snowshoes, kayaking, and polar diving without a wetsuit.
Pack ice
The Gullet Pourquoi Pas Island
Charcot Island
Marguerite Bay
Included in your voyage (2): return flight Santiago/Ushuaia, one night’s accommodation in a hotel in Santiago the night before embarkation, and transfers.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
A touch of Santiago After your voyage | Ushuaia • 1 night (3) From your hotel, ideally located in Santiago city centre, take advantage of your free time to discover Barrio Lastarria, a cultural district with a bohemian atmosphere, and the nearby National Museum of Fine Arts of Chile. As an optional extra, a gourmet dining experience awaits you at dinner: in an intimate wine cellar, enjoy a meal accompanied by a tasting of selected Chilean wines.
38
39
40
THE CARIBBEAN, CENTRAL & SOUTH AMERICA In this lush setting with its vibrant shores, smiles become a universal language.
41
IN PERSPECTIVE
Exploration logbook: the three faces of the Caribbean José Sarica returned from his latest scouting trip, from the Bahamas to the Dominican Republic, with a promise of travel far removed from Caribbean clichés. A relaxed rhythm and authentic encounters in the heart of (still) unspoilt nature form the genesis of a new itinerary. “The northern Caribbean having been little visited by PONANT EXPLORATIONS ships, an in-depth field survey was necessary in order to offer future guests an original experience, co-created with local communities. During my three weeks there, in the Bahamas, the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Dominican Republic, I discovered three worlds each with totally different atmospheres. Over the course of eight days, we offer a true voyage of exploration. “In the Bahamas, it’s Pirates of the Caribbean, the original version... We wander through the mangrove trees, venture into secret caves, discover cenotes of a hypnotic blue, and land on sandbanks. An unusual experience awaits us on the beach of Staniel Cay where a group of good-natured wild pigs delight in taking to the water and frolicking with the bathers! “In the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Caribbean effuses contemplation in pure understated elegance – so British! There, I was quite simply amazed by the most beautiful coral reef I have ever seen. Just beneath the surface lies a multicoloured forest, with soft coral, purple gorgonians, dozens of green turtles and schools of bottlenose dolphins. Guests have the opportunity to admire the underwater world while using a mask and snorkel, scuba diving or from a glass-bottom boat.
José Sarica Director of Expedition Experience, R&D
42
“Finally, in the Dominican Republic, Hispanic and African influences blend together in a joyful and electric vitality. The history of each of these islands is also fascinating, from the First Nations to piracy, from the painful legacy of slavery to independence. “This voyage promises to be anything but monotonous!"
SEASONAL CURIOSITIES
Book tip The only novel by João Guimarães Rosa, and a cult classic at that, The Devil to Pay in the Backlands is a sweeping, epic tale set in Brazil’s sertão, the country’s vast and rugged backlands. Itinerary: Emblematic South American shores and cities, p. 44
The sacred bird In Costa Rica, it is said that the quetzal only reveals itself to those deemed worthy. Revered by the Maya and the Aztecs, this legendary bird is a dazzling display of iridescent colour: a lime-green head, a golden crest, a scarlet breast, plumage shifting from emerald to sapphire and the long turquoise tail feathers for which it is renowned. Itineraries p. 46 to 47.
The other Finistère* The southern tip of Baja California has the feel of the end of the world: close to a cactus-strewn desert, the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez meet at El Finisterra – ‘the end of the earth’ – beneath a rock arch sculpted by erosion. Every four years, at low tide, a narrow strip of sand emerges beneath this natural bridge, creating a temporary beach for sea lions. *A department in the far west of Brittany, France. Itinerary: Exploration in the heart of Baja California, p. 45
The jewellery of the Kunas In the San Blas Archipelago, Kuna women begin wearing winnis from puberty onwards – colourful bracelets made from tiny glass seed beads that adorn their arms and legs. Carefully woven by hand, they form intricate patterns believed to protect against evil spirits. On festive occasions, the adornment is completed with earrings, necklaces crafted from engraved gold leaves and a ring on every finger. Itineraries: Central America jewels and Panama Canal and Secrets of Central America, p. 47; Panama, Colombia and Caribbean islands, p. 48
365 According to local legend, this is the number of waterfalls hidden within the lush Atlantic rainforest of Ilhabela – one for every day of the year. Among the most iconic are the picturesque Cachoeira do Gato, whose rock formation is said to resemble a cat, the vast natural waterslide formed by Cachoeira da Toca and the powerful Água Branca waterfall. Itinerary: Emblematic South American shores and cities, p. 44
43
| TIMELESS |
BRAZIL
Emblematic South American shores and cities
Rio de Janeiro Paraty Ilhabela Paranaguá
Buenos Aires • Rio de Janeiro | 11 days/10 nights | Le Boréal: 18th March 2028 | from AU$11,830(1) A South American getaway through Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil, including a full day in vibrant Rio de Janeiro • Visits to iconic cities including Punta del Este, the ‘Saint-Tropez of South America’, Montevideo, Porto Belo, Paraty • Paradise-like beaches and jungle waterfalls in Ilhabela, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve • A wide choice of included excursions (4) to the destination’s heritage and natural treasures.
44
Porto Belo
Rio Grande
Buenos Aires
ARGENTINA
URUGUAY Montevideo Punta del Este
Atlantic Ocean
| DISCOVERY |
Exploration in the heart of Baja California Cabo San Lucas • Cabo San Lucas | 11 days/10 nights | Le Bellot: 25th January, 4th and 24th February and 5th and 15th March 2028 | from AU$13,680(1)
Guerrero Negro
MEXICO
Loreto Bay National Park
The stunning landscapes, hidden islands and coral reefs of Baja California and the Sea of Cortez, a model of marine conservation • Wildlife: grey, blue and humpback whales, bottlenose dolphins, orcas, California sea lions, rays, pelicans, cormorants • Activities: included excursions (4) designed in collaboration with local communities; hiking and swimming with fins, a mask and a snorkel, accompanied by naturalist guides.
Coronado Island
Loreto
Sea of Cortez Los Islotes
Magdalena Bay
La Paz
Pacific Ocean
4th February 2028 departure: activities and lectures given by an expert from The Explorers Club.
Cabo Pulmo National Park
Cabo San Lucas
Included in your voyage (2): transfers to and from the port.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Mexico City: a true cultural treasure Before your voyage | Cabo San Lucas • 3 nights (3) Explore Mexico City and the surrounding region on this four-day cultural immersion tour. Discover its treasures: a UNESCO-listed historic centre, iconic museums, the vibrant and artistic Coyoacán district and the majestic pyramids of Teotihuacan. An exclusive holiday combining culture, history and the Mexican way of life.
Hike in the heart of Tabor Canyon From Loreto | 5 h 30 • [€€€€] Do you love both nature and adventure? Hike through the wild landscapes of Baja California in the company of local guides who are passionate about the flora and fauna. Away from the usual tourist routes, the meandering trails of the Tabor Canyon wind through impressive rock formations. Carved out over the centuries by the elements and more than 300 metres deep, the canyon offers stunning panoramic views.
45
| DISCOVERY |
Coco
Pacific Coast of Costa Rica
COSTA RICA
Puntarenas • Puntarenas | 8 days/7 nights | Le Bellot: 8th December 2027, 4th and 11th January 2028 | Le Bougainville: 12th December 2027 | from AU$7,290(1) Explore several national parks, sanctuaries of biodiversity: Manuel Antonio, Rincón de la Vieja, Carara, and Curú National Parks • Landscapes: mangroves, rainforests, waterfalls and black-sand beaches • Wildlife: capuchin and howler monkeys, coatis, crocodiles, iguanas, sloths, macaws • Activities: exploring the mangroves by zodiac, forest hikes and walks led by naturalist guides.
Cedros Island
Curú Wildlife Refuge
Puntarenas Playa Manta
Manuel Antonio National Parc
Río Esquinas Puerto Jimenez
Pacific Ocean
12th December 2027 and 11th January 2028 departures: the stopover at Cedros Island is replaced by Tortuga Island.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Costa Rica: combining natural wonders and traditions Before or after your voyage | Puntarenas • 3 nights (3) Beneath the conical silhouette of the Arenal Volcano, the charming town of La Fortuna will be the starting point for your journey among both nature and culture. In the heart of the rainforest, explore the trails of Mistico Park, with panoramic views of the volcano. The next day, on the way to San José, you will sample the local flavours with a typical meal, followed by a visit to a coffee plantation.
46
| TIMELESS |
Central America jewels and Panama Canal Colón • Puntarenas/Puntarenas • Colón | 8 days/7 nights | Le Bougainville: 29th December 2027 and 5th January 2028 | from AU$7,960(1)
Caribbean Sea COSTA RICA
Panama Canal
Puntarenas
San Blas Islands Colón
Discover the natural treasures of Central America • A visit to the Darién National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Passing through the locks of the Panama Canal, a unique sailing experience • Meeting the Emberá Indians and Kuna community in their villages • Landscapes: idyllic beaches and primary rainforest • A wide choice of included excursions (4): wildlife watching, history, culture, crafts.
PANAMA
Golfito
Fuerte Amador
Playa Muerto
Darién National Park Pacific Ocean
5th January 2028 departure: reverse itinerary
| EXPEDITION |
Secrets of Central America Colón • Puntarenas/Puntarenas • Colón | 11 days/10 nights | Le Bellot: 28th November, 15th and 25th December 2027 and 1st April 2028 | Le Bougainville: 2nd and 19th December 2027 and 23rd February 2028 | from AU$10,720(1) An expedition between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific, travelling through the legendary Panama Canal • Discovering unspoilt nature reserves and wildlife: Curú Nature Reserve, Darién National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the monumental mangroves of the Rio Esquinas • Meeting the Emberá and Kuna indigenous communities • Activities: zodiac outings with naturalist guides, swimming in idyllic settings.
BACK-TO-BACK – Extend your trip by combining it with the 4th March 2028 departure aboard Le Bougainville (learn more about our Grand Voyages on p. 98).
Caribbean Sea
COSTA RICA Puntarenas
Curú Wildlife Refuge Drake Bay
Colón San Blas Islands Fort San Lorenzo
Río Esquinas PANAMA Coiba Island
Panama Canal
Pacheca Island Pearls Islands Playa Muerto
Darién National Park
Pacific Ocean
15th and 19th December 2027 and 1st April 2028 departures: reverse itinerary. 23rd February 2028 departure: the stopover in Puerto Jimenez replaces Drake Bay.
23rd February 2028 departure: activities and lectures given by an expert from The Explorers Club.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Panama City, where historic treasures meet the legendary canal Before or after your voyage| Colón • 1 night (3) Don't leave Panama without visiting Casco Viejo, the historic centre of Panama City! The splendour of this district, with its colonial and neoclassical architecture, has earned it UNESCO classification. Then, it's on to the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, the Panama Canal, where you can learn all about its history. Your stay ends with a boat trip on Lake Gatún and a chance to see the rich wildlife in Gamboa, in the heart of the pristine rainforest.
47
| TIMELESS |
Panama, Colombia and Caribbean islands Fort-de-France • Colón/Colón • Fort-de-France | 13 days/12 nights | Le Bougainville: 4th March 2028 | Le Bellot: 19th November 2027 (10 days/9 nights) and 11th April 2028 | from AU$9,130(1) Discover the natural treasures of the Caribbean Sea and its many cultural influences • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Pitons of Saint Lucia, Cartagena de Indias, the fortifications of Portobelo • Relax on idyllic islands: the Grenadines, the San Blas archipelago • The opportunity to go scuba diving • Among your included excursions (4): the archaeological site of Tayronaka, La Soufrière in Saint Lucia, a boat trip to Les Saintes.
BACK-TO-BACK – Extend your trip by combining it with the 23rd February 2028 departure aboard Le Bougainville (learn more about our Grand Voyages on p.98).
Caribbean Sea San Blas Islands Portobelo
Colón
PANAMA
Les Saintes Fort-de-France Pigeon Island / Soufrière
Willemstad Mayreau Island Santa Marta Port Elizabeth Cartagena
COLOMBIA
Itineraries may vary depending on the departure date, please visit au.ponant.com.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Napoleon’s legacy: Fortress and old town walk From Les Saintes | 3 h 30 [INCLUDED] Discover the secrets of Terre-de-Haut with your guide. First, you’ll head up to Fort Napoleon, where there’s a museum that traces the island’s history, and the view over the bay from the surrounding botanical gardens is breathtaking. You will then visit a traditional sailboat building workshop, before a gourmet snack of famous pastries, ‘tourments d’amour’, accompanied by exotic fruit juices.
48
| TIMELESS |
Jewels of the Antilles
GUADELOUPE Les Saintes
Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France | 8 days/7 nights | Le Champlain: 1st, 15th and 29th December 2027 and 16th February 2028 | from AU$6,770(1) Vieux Fort • Vieux Fort | 8 days/7 nights | Le Champlain: 1st, 8th and 15th March 2028 | from AU$6,770(1) Enjoy the laid-back Creole way of life, with idyllic beaches, colourful houses, spicy flavours and the scent of island flowers • The Pitons of Saint Lucia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Marine life: turtles, barracudas, parrotfish • The opportunity to go scuba diving • Among your included excursions (4): relaxation and a barbecue on the island of Mayreau in the Grenadines, a boat trip to Les Saintes.
Saint-Pierre
MARTINIQUE
Fort-de-France
Caribbean Sea
Pigeon Island Beach
SAINT LUCIA Soufrière
SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
Port Elizabeth Tobago Cays / Mayreau
1st, 8th and 15th March 2028 departures: an alternative itinerary departing from the island of Saint Lucia, with a stopover in Barbados. Find out more at au.ponant.com.
| TIMELESS |
Jost Van Dyke
Wonders of the Caribbean Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France | 8 days/7 nights | Le Champlain: 8th and 22nd December 2027 | from AU$6,770(1) An unforgettable journey where nature and heritage come together, amid Creole villages, colonial heritage and pirate legends • A visit to the historic Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Enchanting landscapes: the pristine beaches of White Bay, the granite rocks of The Bath • A teeming underwater world to explore while scuba diving • A visit to a rum distillery in Marie-Galante.
Virgin Gorda
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA
Gustavia SAINT BARTHÉLEMY
Antigua
Charlestown
SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS GUADELOUPE Marie-Galante
Caribbean Sea
MARTINIQUE Fort-de-France
49
Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos Islands & the Bahamas: hidden gems of the Caribbean Discover the Caribbean’s hidden treasures, exclusively: PONANT EXPLORATIONS is up to the challenge. We invite you to explore the many facets of these archipelagos, shaped by an idyllic natural environment, vibrant cultures and a rich history. Will you be among the first to set sail?
50
| TIMELESS |
Secret treasures of the Lesser Antilles Fort-de-France • La Romana/La Romana • Fort-de-France | 8 days/7 nights | Le Champlain: 5th January and 9th February 2028 | from AU$7,600(1)
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Punta Cana
Jost Van Dyke
La Romana
MONTSERRAT Little Bay
Deshaies
Roseau
GUADELOUPE
DOMINICA
Fort-de-France
Caribbean Sea
The spectacular landscapes of the Lesser Antilles: volcanic terrain, tropical forests and idyllic beaches • A unique stopover in Speightstown, nicknamed ‘Little Bristol’ • An immersion in Creole and Caribbean cultures, discovering vibrant island traditions and a blend of influences • The opportunity to go scuba diving • A wide range of included excursions (4).
MARTINIQUE Speightstown
BARBADOS
9th February 2028 departure: reverse itinerary. The stopover in Virgin Gorda replaces Jost Van Dyke.
| DISCOVERY |
Jewels of the northern Caribbean
Experience an exploration of the archipelagos of the Dominican Republic, the Turks and Caicos Islands and the Bahamas, combining unspoilt nature and vibrant culture • The stopover at Monte Cristi, exclusive to PONANT EXPLORATIONS • Exceptional landscapes: the idyllic beaches of Gordon’s Beach, Fort George and Pig Beach; mangroves, freshwater lagoons, remarkable geological formations • Activities led by naturalist guides or local guides: hiking, swimming with fins, a mask and a snorkel, diving, exploring the mangroves by zodiac.
Barbary Beach, Grand Bahama
Atlantic Ocean Nassau
BAHAMAS
Staniel Cay, Exuma Gordon’s Beach, Long Island
Santa Bárbara de Samaná/ Cayo Levantado
Turks and Caicos Islands
NEW
La Romana • Nassau/Nassau • La Romana | 8 days/7 nights | Le Champlain: 12th, 19th and 26th January and 2nd February 2028 | from AU$7,960(1)
San Fernando de Monte Cristi
DOMINICAN La Romana REPUBLIC Caribbean Sea
19th January and 2nd February 2028 departures: reverse itinerary. 12th January 2028 departure: the itinerary does not include a stopover in Santa Barbara de Samaná.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Colonial elegance: immersion in the heart of Santo Domingo Before or after your voyage | La Romana • 1 day (3) Take an exclusive full-day immersion tour of the colonial city of Santo Domingo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built according to a checkerboard layout, the city has retained its 15th-century features. You’ll visit some of the oldest monuments in America, including the cathedral and the Fortaleza Ozama. Lunch will be served on the Plaza de España, opposite the Alcázar de Colón, the first fortified palace in the New World.
51
| TIMELESS |
History and culture visiting Caribbean jewels Pointe-à-Pitre • Marigot/Marigot • Pointe-à-Pitre | 8 days/7 nights | Le Ponant: 6th and 20th December 2027, 3rd, 10th and 24th January, 7th and 21st February, 6th and 20th March and 3rd April 2028 | from AU$11,510(1) Explore the Caribbean aboard the iconic three-masted Le Ponant • Immerse yourself in Caribbean history, with several stopovers following in the footsteps of Admiral Nelson • Exceptional wildlife • Water sports, including the opportunity to go scuba diving • Among your included excursions (4): watching seabirds and great frigatebirds in Barbuda, a visit to the UNESCO-listed shipyard in Antigua.
ANGUILLA
Prickly Pear Cays
Marigot
SAINT MARTIN
SAINT BARTHÉLEMY Gustavia ANTIGUA AND BARBUDA Barbuda
Charlestown
Falmouth Bay
SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS
GUADELOUPE Pointe-à-Pitre Les Saintes
Caribbean Sea
20th December 2027, 10th January, 7th February, 6th March and 3rd April 2028 departures: reverse itinerary.
| TIMELESS |
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS
Reverie under sail in the heart of the Lesser Antilles Marigot • Marigot | 8 days/7 nights | Le Ponant: 13th December 2027, 31st January, 28th February and 27th March 2028 | from AU$11,510(1) Sail in the British Virgin Islands, one of the world’s most popular sailing destinations, aboard Le Ponant • Idyllic beaches, sometimes deserted, pirate islands and teeming seabeds • Water sports, including scuba diving • Among your included excursions (4) : the natural pools of The Baths in Virgin Gorda, exploring the caves of Norman Island, the stunning sunset at White Bay.
Beef Island Virgin Gorda Jost Van Dyke Norman Island Cooper Island
ANGUILLA Sandy Island Dog Island
Marigot
SAINT MARTIN
Caribbean Sea
| TIMELESS |
Gliding the waters of the Windward Islands
Pointe-à-Pitre
Pointe-à-Pitre • Pointe-à-Pitre | 8 days/7 nights | Le Ponant: 27th December 2027, 17th January, 14th February and 13th March 2028 | from AU$11,510(1) An exclusive exploration of the aptly named Windward Islands, enjoying special moments aboard the sailing ship Le Ponant • The art of living and Creole culture • Enchanting landscapes: the coral reefs of the Tobago Cays, the UNESCOlisted Pitons of Saint Lucia • Water sports, including the opportunity to go scuba diving • Among your included excursions (4): a boat trip through the mangroves in Dominica, a visit to a plantation in Marie-Galante.
52
GUADELOUPE Marie-Galante Portsmouth
DOMINICA Grande Anse d’Arlet
MARTINIQUE
Caribbean Sea
Soufrière SAINT LUCIA Tobago Cays Sandy Island
GRENADA
Port Elizabeth
SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
53
54
EUROPE & THE ATLANTIC ISLANDS At the crossroads between the Old and New worlds, these distinctive lands combine the power of the elements with the art of living.
55
IN PERSPECTIVE
Cape Verde: volcanoes, culture and the open sea Having been a cruise enthusiast for some 30 years, to the point that she and her husband (almost) swear by this mode of travel, Béatrice Duquenne chose to set sail on Le Ponant to explore Cape Verde, at the end of 2025. She looks back on this experience, rich in sensations and (re)discovery. “The comfort, not having to pack and unpack all the time, and above all the chance to be fully immersed in the heart of the landscapes… Cruising quickly became the obvious choice for us. On an expedition, you truly leave the classic routes behind and feel as close to nature as possible. I had already had the opportunity to visit Cape Verde, but returning there with PONANT EXPLORATIONS was a completely different experience. This country, at the crossroads of Europe and Africa, has a unique identity. What touches me most are the landscapes, the very mineral, almost raw volcanic islands, not to mention the very evident local life. I am still in awe when I think back to the inhabitants of the island of Fogo, who rebuild after eruptions with remarkable resilience. I also remember very precise sensations: the scent of the markets, the colours of the fruit on the stalls, the wind on deck, and of course the gentle, lingering motion of the sea while sailing. I also recall simple scenes, such as fishermen catching fish with their bare hands or children selling coffee… These are images that stay with you.
Béatrice Duquenne Loyal guest
56
“On board, I was struck by the professionalism of the teams and the almost family-like atmosphere. You feel right at home, with the added bonus of local guides who provide a genuine understanding of the destination. Their perspective allows you to better grasp the realities of life there, between cultural richness and economic fragility. This trip to Cape Verde strikes a rare balance between exploration, refinement and immersion. A different way of discovering the world.”
SEASONAL CURIOSITIES
The paintings of the Guanches The Guanches, the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, have long since disappeared, but many of their secrets remain unsolved. Their geometric paintings have inspired generations of artists across the archipelago, yet their meaning remains unknown: astronomy, sacred ritual or a form of writing? Found in caves on La Palma, at Lomo de Los Letreros and near Gáldar on Gran Canaria, these enigmatic works may even tell the story of Atlantis. Itineraries: Splendours of the Canaries and authentic Madeira, p. 59; Volcanic landscapes from Cape Verde to Canary Islands, p. 60
The art of savouring life’s simple pleasures Just three little letters added to the end of a word, kos is a distinctly Norwegian state of mind: a sense of warmth, presence and contentment that can be expressed in countless manners. Vinterkos (winter kos) embraces everything from Vaffelkos (waffle kos), Peiskos (fire kos), Hyttekos (cabin kos) and the indispensable Kaffekos (coffee kos) and Familiekos (family kos). Itinerary: Nordic Sea treasures, p. 58
The ninth Canary island Featured on medieval maps, the ‘Isle of the Fish’ was said to possess the curious ability to appear and disappear at will. According to legend, the Irish monk and explorer Saint Brendan the Navigator set foot there in the 6th century, before giving it his name: San Borondón. Beyond the enduring legend that still lives on across the archipelago, San Borondón is in fact a Fata Morgana – a maritime optical phenomenon. Itineraries: Splendours of the Canaries and authentic Madeira, p. 59; Volcanic landscapes from Cape Verde to Canary Islands, p. 60
The doors of Santa Maria Maior
Ilhéu de Contenda by Henrique Teixeira De Sousa is a sweeping family saga set on the island of Fogo, offering a vivid portrait of the period leading up to the archipelago’s independence.
The oldest street in Funchal has become an open-air art gallery. In the city’s former fishing quarter, artist José Maria Zyberchema launched the artE de pORtas abErtas (‘Art of Open Doors’) project in 2010. Since then, well-known and emerging artists alike have transformed more than 200 doors and façades, creating an eclectic, ever-evolving and colourful exhibition.
Itinerary: The many faces of Cape Verde, p. 61
Itinerary: Splendours of the Canaries and authentic Madeira, p. 59
Book tip
57
| TIMELESS |
Tromso Tromsø
Nordic Sea treasures
Lofoten Arctic Polar Circ Leknes le
Brest • Tromsø | 12 days/11 nights | Le Lapérouse: 21st February 2028 | from AU$10,890(1)
Norway Sea
A journey through the history and nature of the Nordic coastlines • Cross the Arctic Circle • The Norwegian fjords and the Lofoten archipelago • Historical heritage: the medieval quarter of Stavanger, the Hanseatic quarter of Bergen (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Art Nouveau facades of Ålesund, the Viking heritage • Among your included excursions (4): a cruise on the canals of Rotterdam, a visit to a fishing village and the Viking Museum on the Lofoten Islands.
Trondheim Ålesund
NORWAY Bergen Stavanger
North Sea Amsterdam NETHERLANDS Ostend BELGIUM Brest
FRANCE
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
NEW: Lysefjord by RIB boat From Stavanger | 2 h [€€€] Climb aboard a RIB and sail with your Norwegian skipper through the calm waters of Lysefjord, which stretches for around 40 kilometres. From the sea, the granite cliffs speckled with soft green are breathtaking! You'll have a spectacular view of the famous Preikestolen or ‘Pulpit Rock’. This magnificent rocky plateau rises 600 metres above the deep blue waters of the fjord.
58
| TIMELESS |
Splendours of the Canaries and authentic Madeira
Funchal
Madeira
Las Palmas • Las Palmas | 11 days/10 nights | Le Champlain: 1st and 11th November 2027 | from AU$8,330(1) An exploration of the spectacular volcanic landscapes and rich cultural heritage of these Spanish and Portuguese archipelagos • The authentic atmosphere of historic colonial towns • Landscapes: the botanical gardens of Funchal, the levadas of Madeira, the lunar landscapes of Lanzarote • Among your included excursions (4): the Garajonay and Teide national parks, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the historic centre of Funchal.
Atlantic Ocean
Arrecife de Lanzarote
Santa Cruz de la Palma
Puerto del Rosario La Estaca
Las Palmas
La Gomera
Canary Islands
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
11th November 2027 departure: stopovers at La Estaca and La Gomera are reversed.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
The Blandy’s wine lodge and vineyards From Funchal | 4 h [€€€] Treat yourself to an exclusive tour of a quinta, a traditional Madeira winery. A true rural oasis, this estate, founded in 1824, shelters sumptuous floral gardens and hundred-yearold trees brought back from around the world, as well as the vineyard that produces Blandy Madeira wine. At the winery, amid the lemon-tree vats, a specialist guide will explain the stages involved in making some of the most famous Madeira wines, before a tasting session.
59
| TIMELESS |
Volcanic landscapes from Cape Verde to Canary Islands
Canary Islands Santa Cruz de Tenerife Santa Cruz de La Palma
Arrecife de Lanzarote
Las Palmas La Estaca
Las Palmas • Dakar/Dakar • Las Palmas | 11 days/10 nights | Le Dumont d’Urville: 25th November 2027 and 24th March 2028 | from AU$8,320(1)
Atlantic Ocean
A journey from island to island, discovering the natural and historical treasures of these volcanic archipelagos • The unique island atmosphere, at the crossroads of Europe and Africa • Contrasting landscapes, by turns lush and lunar • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Teide National Park, Cidade Velha, the historic centre of Ribeira Grande • Among your included excursions (4): the island of Santo Antão, Teide and Timanfaya national parks.
SENEGAL
Mindelo
CAPE VERDE
Praia
Dakar
24th March 2028 departure: reverse itinerary, with no stop at La Estaca.
| TIMELESS |
Ancient shores of the Mediterranean Málaga • Athens | 10 days/9 nights | Le Lapérouse: 1st November 2027 | from AU$9,930(1) A peaceful autumn journey through the great Mediterranean civilisations, far from the hustle and bustle of summer • The iconic architecture of Algiers, ‘the White City’; the authentic atmosphere of the Tunisian medinas; the ancient ruins of Syracuse and Nafplio • The soul of the Eastern Mediterranean revealed through ancient temples, fortifications, stone villages and wild coves along the Greek coastline.
GREECE Mediterranean Sea SPAIN Málaga
ITALY Sicily
Athens
Syracuse
Annaba Tunis Algiers
Nafplion
TUNISIA
Valletta
MALTA
ALGERIA
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Dakar, Joal-Fadhiouth and Bandia reserve Before your voyage | Dakar • 3 nights (3) This rich itinerary will plunge you into authentic Senegal. The fishing village of Joal, a pirogue trip to Fadiouth island and its curious granaries on stilts, centuries-old baobab trees in the dry forest of the Bandia Nature Reserve, and African wildlife including giraffes, zebras and white rhinos: these excursions around Dakar are complemented by a cookery workshop with a chef, to learn how to prepare thiéboudienne (rice with fish) and chicken yassa.
60
| TIMELESS |
Mindelo
The many faces of Cape Verde
São Nicolau
Mindelo • Mindelo | 8 days/7 nights | Le Ponant: 26th October and 2nd, 9th and 16th November 2027 | from AU$9,940(1) An exclusive voyage aboard Le Ponant, from secluded ports of call to lively shores • Cape Verde’s treasures: bustling markets, historic towns, volcanic landscapes, and an immersion in the diverse culture of this former Portuguese colony • Remarkable sites: the lush island of Santo Antão, the dune desert of Boa Vista, the historic UNESCO-listed town of Cidade Velha, and the crater village of Fogo.
Boa Vista
CAPE VERDE
Atlantic Ocean
Maio Fogo
Praia
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Night in Lisbon and 4x4 safari tour in Mindelo After your voyage | Mindelo • 1 night (3) In the heart of Cape Verde’s breathtaking landscapes, a 4x4 is the ideal vehicle for admiring the unspoilt, hard-to-reach nature up close. Deserted beaches of white and black sand at Palha Carga and Salamansa, followed by a farming valley where the fields stretch like an oasis at the foot of Pico do Vento, and Calhau, a fishing village with colourful boats: come and discover an authentic, off-the-beaten-track Cape Verde... And round off your trip with a night in Lisbon.
61
62
AFRICA & THE INDIAN OCEAN From the wilds of southern Africa to islands that smell of Eden, the magic is ever-present.
63
IN PERSPECTIVE
Madagascar, an encounter with the island-continent Rivo Rarivosoa shares a sensitive vision of his island with PONANT EXPLORATIONS guests. He reveals a destination that is as intense as it is unexpected, and suggests that, for a truly immersive experience, it should be explored with a constantly open mind.
“Madagascar is not somewhere you visit, it’s somewhere you experience. I like to reveal another side of the country, beginning with a local approach to Nosy Be – a tropical island in the north-west – through its markets. There, you can observe everyday life and discover different forms of craftsmanship, such as embroidery or raffia weaving. “In the south-west, certain landings accessible by zodiac allow for direct experiences with local communities and offer insight into their way of life, particularly how they build their fishing boats by hand using extremely lightweight Malagasy balsa wood. Watching the way the artisans work and exchanging a few words are simple but very powerful moments.
Rivo Rarivosoa Expedition leader
64
“Madagascar is often referred to as the ‘island-continent’ in reference to its incredible diversity, its highly varied ecosystems and the many species found nowhere else in the world. In my view, this diversity goes beyond fauna and flora. For me, the most important thing remains the bond that is built with people. ‘Mada’ deserves to be known as much for its culture as for its natural environment. We stand at the intersection between Africa and Asia, and this is reflected in our way of life. What I would like travellers to take away with them is the smile of the Malagasy people, their sense of hospitality. And above all, I always tell them: come with an open mind. Here, everything is different – the pace of life, the way things are done, the way of observing, of being with others, and the relationship with time. If you embrace this, you will experience something truly special.”
SEASONAL CURIOSITIES
Book tip Troy Blacklaws’ debut novel, Karoo Boy, transports readers to 1970s South Africa, weaving together the realities of apartheid and a compelling coming-of-age story. Itinerary: Namibian & South African coastlines, p. 66
The Seychelles’ remarkable trees Across the archipelago grow trees with wonderfully evocative names: the aptly named flamboyant, the breadfruit tree, dragon blood tree, octopus tree, the rare Wright’s gardenia, the twisting tamanu, the red frangipani and the airy pandanus. The islands are also home to mangrove species known as gros poumons (‘big lungs’) and patience, as well as a remarkable variety of palms, including the mille-pattes and the coco de mer. Itinerary: The essential Seychelles, p. 69
Atop Table Mountain Its distinctive silhouette is one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks. Rising to 1,088 metres, Table Mountain's flat summit offers breathtaking views over Cape Town and the Cape of Good Hope. Yet this mountain massif, estimated to be around 600 million years old, is also a remarkable biodiversity sanctuary, home to some 1,500 plant species (most of them endemic). Itinerary: Namibian and South African coastlines, p. 66
The flamingos of Walvis Bay On Namibia’s Atlantic coast, where the desert meets the ocean, the lagoon of Walvis Bay attracts a remarkable diversity of birdlife, including thousands of greater and lesser flamingos. The deep blue waters provide a striking contrast to the birds’ colourful plumage and distinctive beaks, which are pink or black depending on the species. Itinerary: Namibian and South African coastlines, p. 66
Madagascar’s iconic primate The lemur is the emblematic animal of the ‘Red Island’ and is found nowhere else on Earth. Madagascar is home to 105 species, both diurnal and nocturnal, including the ring-tailed lemur with its distinctive banded tail, the blackand-white indri, the tiny mouse lemur with its prominent eyes, the enigmatic aye-aye with its slender fingers, the elegant diademed sifaka and the striking silky sifaka. Itineraries: Jewels of Madagascar, p. 67; Madagascar and South Africa, p. 68
65
| TIMELESS |
Namibian and South African coastlines Walvis Bay • Richards Bay | 12 days/11 nights | Le Dumont d’Urville: 16th December 2027 | from AU$11,170(1) Experience Christmas in Southern Africa, from the Atlantic coast to the Indian Ocean • UNESCO-listed landscapes: the Namib Desert and the Cape Floral Region • Wildlife: elephants, rhinos, zebras, giraffes, antelopes, fur seals, flamingos • Among your included excursions (4): the ghost town of Kolmanskop, the Cape of Good Hope, Table Mountain, a safari in a game reserve, a hike at Cape Saint Blaize.
NAMIBIA Walvis Bay
Lüderitz Richards Bay Durban
SOUTH AFRICA
Le Cap
Port Elizabeth Mossel Bay
Atlantic Ocean
Indian Ocean
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
NEW: Kruger safari: luxury and wildlife at Shishangeni Camp Before or after your voyage | Durban and Richards Bay • 3 nights (3) This safari through the vast wilderness of the Kruger Park – one of South Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves – is a truly memorable experience! You will be staying in a tented suite at an intimate bush lodge, complete with a lounge and library. Early in the morning and at the end of the day, a ranger will take you out in an open 4x4 vehicle in search of wildlife, including the Big Five: lion, rhino, elephant, leopard and buffalo.
66
| DISCOVERY |
Mauritius Flight
Jewels of Madagascar
Nosy Hara
Richards Bay • Nosy Be | 12 days/11 nights | Le Dumont d’Urville: 27th December 2027 | from AU$14,510(1) A New Year’s celebration exploring the biodiversity and traditions of Madagascar • The baobab forest of Morondava, the Red Cirque of Majunga • Meeting the nomadic Vezo fishermen • Wildlife: green and hawksbill turtles, lemurs, Nosy Ve red-tailed tropicbirds, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve • Activities: zodiac outings and landings, snorkelling, and forest walks with naturalist guides and Malagasy guides.
Nosy Be
Nosy Komba Majunga
MADAGASCAR Morondava Toliara Nosy Ve / Sarodrano Richards Bay
SOUTH AFRICA
Indian Ocean
Included in your voyage (2): flight Nosy Be/Mauritius and transfer.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Tsingy and forest adventure: hiking through unique landscapes From Nosy Hara | 3 h [INCLUDED] Set off in a zodiac to the small island of Nosy Hara, and begin your exploration with a local guide. Walking through the forest among the baobab trees, you'll have the chance to spot the Brookesia micra, an adorable dwarf chameleon endemic to the region. At the top of the island, towering spires of karst rock sculpted by erosion, the tsingy, dominate a splendid 360° panorama.
67
| DISCOVERY |
Madagascar and South Africa
Mauritius Flight
Nosy Be • Durban | 12 days/11 nights | Le Dumont d’Urville: 20th February 2028 | from AU$15,890(1) Explore idyllic islands and coastlines boasting remarkably well-preserved biodiversity, with an overnight stay in Richards Bay • The lemurs of Nosy Komba and the wildlife of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park • Unique ecosystems, such as the marine tsingy of Nosy Hara • Discovering Zulu traditions in the Phezulu Reserve • Activities: included excursions led by expert local guides, and activities accompanied by your naturalist guides.
Nosy Hara Nosy Be
Nosy Komba/Nosy Tanikely Majunga
MADAGASCAR Morondava Toliara Richards Bay Durban
Indian Ocean
SOUTH AFRICA
Activities and lectures given by an expert from The Explorers Club.
Included in your voyage (2): flight Mauritius/Nosy Be and transfer.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Mahé escape: gardens, views and tropical charm Before or after your voyage | Mahé • 1 night (3) A pleasant hotel just a stone’s throw from the beach will provide the perfect tropical setting to start or extend your stay in the Seychelles. Take some time to relax by the pool, then set off on a guided tour of a botanical garden brimming with exotic plants. There is also a small museum on the history of spices, and a free tasting of local products. This tour is rounded off with a panoramic view of the capital, Victoria.
68
| EXPEDITION |
SEYCHELLES
The essential Seychelles
Aride
Grande Sœur
Mahé • Mahé | 9 days/8 nights | Le Dumont d’Urville: 17th and 25th January and 2nd February 2028 | from AU$8,620(1) An escape to the Inner Islands of the Seychelles and the coral island of Rémire • The scenery: beaches dotted with pink granite boulders, such as at Anse Source d’Argent, mangroves, stunning seabeds • Exceptional biodiversity: Aldabra giant tortoises, birds in the Aride Reserve, coco de mer in the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • The opportunity to go scuba diving • Activities: zodiac outings and walks with naturalist guides, swimming.
Curieuse
La Digue Praslin Victoria, Mahé
Cousin
Rémire
Indian Ocean
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Discover La Digue: beaches, nature and island charm From La Digue • 3 h [INCLUDED] Be enchanted by La Digue, one of the most beautiful islands in the Seychelles! After a glimpse into life in days gone by at the Union Estate, a former coconut and vanilla plantation with its beautiful Creole house, here is Anse Source d’Argent. The fine sand and iconic pink granite rocks of this idyllic beach are a paradise for swimmers and photographers alike.
69
70
ASIA & OCEANIA As you journey through secret archipelagos, immerse yourself in ancient cultures and fascinating landscapes.
71
IN PERSPECTIVE
Island immersion: a new view of the Philippines The Philippines is dotted with thousands of unspoilt islands, including the Visayas – one of its best-kept secrets. Sylviane de Tracy, Cruise Research and Development Director at PONANT EXPLORATIONS, has spent over a month scouting out this maze of islands to craft new itineraries and capture the soul of this destination.
“Discovering the Philippines by sea almost goes with saying. The archipelago is made up of over 7,000 islands, of which barely 2,000 are inhabited. Sailing allows you to reach areas that are usually inaccessible, rare gems that require a little effort. Your senses come into play as you approach the shore: even before you dock, you can hear the villages, the roosters crowing and the children laughing... “Some 20 sites were studied to create two complementary itineraries [find out more on pages 78 and 79]. What makes them special is their location off the beaten track, particularly in the Visayas, which PONANT EXPLORATIONS is one of the few companies to visit. The infrastructure there remains limited, which ensures an authentic experience and calls us to adapt, without altering their balance.
Sylviane de Tracy Cruise Research and Development Director, PONANT EXPLORATIONS
72
“Accompanied by our guides, guests will discover the diverse history of this destination, its handicrafts, lively markets, etc. They will also be able to admire its rich variety of landscapes, with coconut groves, white sandy beaches, mangroves, waterfalls, volcanoes, and turquoise waters to explore on a snorkelling trip. At every stopover, the Filipino people are what give the journey its depth. Welcoming a ship often involves the whole village, demonstrating the characteristic generosity of these communities. We learn about their way of life and everyday activities, from fishing and boat building to harvesting medicinal plants. On these car-free islands, travelling by habalhabal – a motorbike adapted to carry whole families – or a traditional tricycle, completes the authentic immersion experience.”
SEASONAL CURIOSITIES
Book tip In Beauty Is a Wound, Indonesian writer Eka Kurniawan brilliantly blends history, humour and legend to relate the destiny of a lineage of women and paint a vivid portrait of Java. Itinerary: Exploring the Malay Archipelago, p. 81
In the enchanted forest of Yakushima With their extraordinary, fairy-tale forms, the ancient yakusugi – millennia-old Japanese cedars – create a unique, almost mystical atmosphere. The most imposing of them all, Jōmon Sugi, is believed to have watched over the island for more than 7,000 years. Around it flourish some 2,000 plant species and 650 varieties of moss lining rivers, hot springs and waterfalls. Itineraries: Japan, between tradition and modernity, p. 74; Odyssey in the heart of Japan’s subtropical islands, p. 76
The traditional Filipino tunic The barong tagalog was already worn in the Philippines before the arrival of Magellan. In its most refined form, it is made from piña, a delicate fibre derived from pineapple leaves. Both crisp and translucent, and most often white or pale yellow, it is adorned with intricate embroidery across the chest and traditionally worn with loose-fitting trousers known as salawal or a wrapped garment called a malong. Itineraries p.76 to 79
The Black Island An island of volcanoes, ash and magic, Ambrym owes its nickname to its dramatic volcanic landscapes. The island is home to twin volcanoes, Marum and Benbow, as well as some of Vanuatu’s most respected traditional sorcerers. Known as the ‘Men of the Interior’, these spiritual figures entrust their prayers to the basalt giants, asking them to intercede with the spirits and restore harmony between people and nature. Itineraries: An escapade in the heart of Melanesia and Secret islands of Melanesia, p. 83
The dugong, an unexpected ‘mermaid’ With its streamlined body, sturdy yet graceful appearance and remarkable prehensile upper lip, the dugong produces a range of vocalisations, from calls to whistles. Its name means ‘lady of the sea’, as it is thought to have inspired the myth of the mermaid. Entirely herbivorous, it is sometimes nicknamed the ‘sea cow’ for the way it grazes on seagrass meadows. Itineraries p. 74 to 83
73
| TIMELESS |
Japanese ancestral traditions and legendary shrines Osaka • Busan | 9 days/8 nights | Le Soléal: 29th September 2027, 9th March and 12th May 2028 | from AU$11,760(1)
SOUTH KOREA Busan
Ine
Japan Sea Hagi
Discovering authentic Japan: refined culture, ancient traditions and spectacular natural scenery • Cruising the Seto Inland Sea and the Sea of Japan • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Miyajima Shrine, the fortified town of Hagi • Enchanting landscapes: the hot springs of Beppu, the ochre dunes of Tottori, the ‘Bridge to Heaven’ of Amanohashidate • A rich program of included excursions (4).
Sakaiminato Tottori
Miyazu
JAPAN
Osaka
Hiroshima
Miyajima
Takamatsu
Beppu
9th March departure: the order of the stopovers is modified.
| TIMELESS |
SOUTH KOREA Busan
Japan Sea
JAPAN
Japan, between tradition and modernity
Osaka
Busan • Osaka | 9 days/8 nights | Le Soléal: 7th October 2027, 17th March and 4th May 2028 | from AU$11,760(1) A voyage to the heart of Japan, discovering its many facets: history and ancient traditions, unbridled modernity, sumptuous landscapes • The mountainous island of Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its forests of thousandyear-old cedars • Among your included excursions (4): Uwajima Castle, a masterpiece of the Edo period, and the Peace Memorial in Nagasaki.
Uwajima Nagasaki
Kochi
Unzen Sakitsu Kagoshima
Yakushima
17th March departure: the order of the stopovers is modified.
74
Katsuura
| TIMELESS |
JAPAN
SOUTH KOREA
Authentic Japan
Busan
Tokyo • Busan | 13 days/12 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 11th March 2028 | from AU$20,690(1) An encounter with the Land of the Rising Sun, its cultural heritage, its feudal castles and sacred temples • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial • Exploring the Seto Inland Sea • Among your included excursions (4): the Ise Shinto Shrine, the town of Chiran and its samurai residences, the Atomic Bomb Museum in Nagasaki.
Tokyo
Japan Sea
Osaka
Hiroshima Miyajima
Shimizu Toba
Tomonoura Nagasaki Katsuura
Unzen Kumamoto
Pacific Ocean
Miyazaki
East Ibusuki, Kagoshima China Sea
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Kyoto and Nara, imperial heritage Before and after your voyage | Osaka • 4 nights (3) The former imperial capitals await you for an immersive experience of traditional Japan, complete with an invitation to a tea ceremony. Wonder at the splendour of the temples you visit, such as Kiyomizu-dera, nestled on the mountainside; Kinkaku-ji, covered in gold leaf and a UNESCO World Heritage Site; Ryōan-ji, with its famous rock garden; and Tōdaiji, home to Japan’s largest Buddha statue.
Thermal experience in Kannawa Onsen From Beppu | 3 h 30 • [€€€€] Beppu is one of Japan’s most famous spa towns, renowned for the abundance and variety of its hot springs. Step into a mystical and enchanting atmosphere, amid the clouds of steam rising from the onsen. Try the unique experience of a traditional Japanese bath in a natural hot spring. Unique and unforgettable!
75
| TIMELESS |
Odyssey in the heart of Japan’s subtropical islands
Kochi
Keelung • Osaka | 10 days/9 nights | Le Soléal: 20th September 2027 | from AU$12,510(1) An exploration of the subtropical islands of southern Japan, offering a blend of natural beauty, authentic villages and traditional crafts • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Shuri Castle, the former palace of the Ryūkyū Kingdom, and Yakushima Island with its ancient cedar forests • Discover the unique island culture of Okinawa • Spectacular tropical scenery: idyllic beaches, rivers and waterfalls • A rich program of included excursions (4).
Osaka
JAPAN
Shingu
Kagoshima Miyanoura
East China Sea
Philippine Sea Motobu Naha
Miyakojima Keelung
Ishigaki
TAIWAN
BACK-TO-BACK – Extend your trip by combining it with 28th August and 11th September 2027 departures aboard Le Soléal (see p. 99).
| TIMELESS |
JAPAN Yaizu
NEW
Philippines, Taiwan and Japan Manila • Tokyo | 15 days/14 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 26th February 2028 | from AU$17,450(1) In the heart of East Asia, discovering the treasures of the northern Philippines, eastern Taiwan and southern Japan • In Taiwan and Japan: the subtropical flora of Hualien, the coastal and historic views of Keelung, the unspoilt landscapes of Miyanoura and Okinawa • In the Philippines: the islets of the Hundred Islands National Park, the unspoilt coastlines of Currimao and Claveria.
Tokyo
Kochi
Uwajima
Miyanoura Motobu Naha
Keelung Hualien
TAIWAN
Philippine Sea
Batanes Currimao
Claveria Hundred Islands National Park Manila
PHILIPPINES
| TIMELESS |
Filipino treasures and Japanese serenity
Mitarai
NEW
Manila • Osaka | 12 days/11 nights | Le Soléal: 27th February 2028 | from AU$12,260(1) From the lush west coast of the Philippines to the serene landscapes of Japan • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the colonial town of Vigan (from Currimao), Yakushima Island • The historical heritage and ancestral traditions of two remarkable archipelagos • Scenes of daily life in the villages • Discovering Okinawan culture in Naha • The landscapes: paradisiacal beaches, lush forests, waterfalls, karst islets, coral reefs, mangroves • A rich program of included excursions (4).
Miyazaki Tanegashima
Naha
Motobu
Miyakojima
Philippine Sea
Currimao
Hundred Islands National Park Manila
PHILIPPINES
76
Tamano JAPAN Osaka
| TIMELESS |
Horizons of East Asia and the Philippines
SOUTH KOREA
Busan • Manila | 14 days/13 nights | Le Soléal: 23rd October 2027 | from AU$14,500(1)
Busan
CHINA
Busan • Manila | 13 days/12 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 16th April 2028 | Le Soléal: 20th May 2028 | from AU$13,380(1)
East China Sea Motobu
Keelung
TAIWAN
NEW
Discover the ancient cultures and rich heritage of four East Asian countries: China, Japan, Taiwan and the Philippines • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Shuri Castle, the former palace of the Ryūkyū Kingdom, and the colonial town of Vigan • A tour of bustling Shanghai • The unique island cultures of Okinawa and Batanes • Contrasting landscapes, ranging from ultra-modern cities to authentic villages, idyllic tropical shores and mountains, karst islets and rice field • A rich program of included excursions (4).
Shanghai
Naha JAPAN Miyakojima
Kaohsiung City Batanes
Philippine Sea
Claveria Hundred Islands National Park Manila
PHILIPPINES
The 12-night itinerary does not stop in Motobu (Japan).
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Discover Seoul Before or after your voyage | Busan • 3 nights (3) Combining imperial tradition with contemporary sophistication, South Korea’s capital boasts 5,000 years of history. The vast Gyeongbokgung palace, with the 46-column Gyeonghoeru pavilion reflected in the lake; Bukchon Hanok Village, the traditional district with its narrow streets home to artists’ studios and cafés; a stroll along the waterfront in Cheonggyecheon; and a visit to the National Museum: your guide will take you on a tour of this fascinating megalopolis.
77
| TIMELESS |
NEW
Nature and heritage from the Philippines to Taiwan
Keelung
TAIWAN
Manila • Keelung | 10 days/9 nights | Le Soléal: 11th September 2027 | from AU$10,490(1) Experience a voyage along the western coast of the Philippines, taking in unspoilt nature, its colonial heritage and ancestral traditions • A visit to Vigan, a UNESCO-listed colonial town, and the fortifications of Corregidor • An exploration of traditional crafts in San Fernando and the culture of the Ivatan people in the Batanes Islands • The karst islands of Hundred Islands National Park • The opportunity to go scuba diving • A packed program of included excursions (4).
Kaohsiung City Batanes
South China Sea Claveria
Currimao
Philippine Sea
San Fernando Hundred Islands National Park Manila Corregidor Island
PHILIPPINES
BACK-TO-BACK – Extend your trip by combining it with 28th August and 20th September 2027 departures aboard Le Soléal (learn more about our Grand Voyages on p. 99). | DISCOVERY |
PHILIPPINES
NEW
In the heart of the Visayas, the preserved soul of the Philippines
Manila
Calapan
Manila • Manila | 9 days/8 nights | Le Soléal: 3rd and 19th February 2028 | from AU$9,470(1) Explore the hidden islands of the unspoilt Visayas archipelago in the Philippines • Unforgettable encounters in remote fishing villages • Rich traditional crafts • Landscapes: white sandy beaches, coral reefs, lush greenery, rice fields • The opportunity to go scuba diving • Excursions included, led by local guides, activities accompanied by naturalist guides (4).
Sibuyan Island Higatangan Island Iloílo
Kalanggaman Island Limasawa
Philippine Sea
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Discover ancient Taiwanese villages Before or after your voyage | Keelung • 1 night (3) After an evening in Taipei, immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the villages of Shifen and Jiufen. Shifen is famous for its main street, lined with old houses that literally overlook the railway line and its votive paper lanterns. Built on the mountainside overlooking the sea, Jiufen bears witness to the gold rush that brought it prosperity for a century. Its narrow streets and traditional shops have served as the backdrop for numerous films.
78
| DISCOVERY |
PHILIPPINES
Secrets of the Visayas archipelago
Manila
Manila • Manila | 9 days/8 nights | Le Soléal: 11th February 2028 | from AU$9,470(1)
Marinduque
NEW
Legazpi Biri Island
An adventure in the Philippines, in the heart of the Visayas, these islands that remain largely unexplored • Visits to remote fishing villages • Discover local crafts and rural life in Cuatro Islands and Marinduque • The landscapes: spectacular rock formations, white sandy beaches, coral reefs, mangroves, rice fields, tropical rainforest • The opportunity to go scuba diving • Excursions included, led by local guides, and activities accompanied by naturalist guides (4).
Cresta de Gallo Island
Samar Island Natural Park
Cuatro Islands
Philippine Sea
| TIMELESS |
The hidden treasures of the Philippines and Borneo
PHILIPPINES Corregidor Island
Coron
Culion Puerto Princesa
Modessa Island
NEW
Manila • Singapore/Singapore • Manila | 13 days/12 nights | Le Soléal: 5th November 2027 and 22nd January 2028 | Le Jacques Cartier: 28th April 2028 | from AU$15,620(1)
Manila
Balabac Islands
Combine nature and culture: a voyage through the Philippines, Brunei and Malaysia • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Coron Island, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park • The historic site of Corregidor, a site commemorating the Second World War • The landscapes: karst cliffs and turquoise waters in Coron, beaches on the Balabac Islands, lush mangroves in Brunei • A rich program of included excursions led by local guides (4).
Kota Kinabalu
South China Sea
BRUNEI Muara
SINGAPORE Singapore
Bintulu
Kuching
MALAYSIA
22nd January 2028 departure: reverse itinerary.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
NEW: Discover Manila Before your voyage | Manila • 1 night (3) After your voyage | Manila • 1 day (3) Get a feel for Manila, the bustling capital of the Philippines, and discover a glimpse of its history on a guided tour. You’ll stroll through the cobbled streets of the colonial district of Intramuros, built by the Spanish in the 16th century. You can admire the Baroque church of San Agustin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the military bastion of Fort Santiago, before taking a break in the beautiful green surroundings of Rizal Park.
79
| TIMELESS |
Multicultural discoveries from Malaysia to Thailand Singapore • Phuket/Phuket • Singapore | 9 days/8 nights | Le Soléal: 11th and 19th December 2027 | from AU$8,030(1)
Phang Nga
THAILAND
Phuket
Ko Kradan Island Ko Rok Nok Island Langkawi Island
A journey of discovery through the treasures of South-East Asia along the Strait of Malacca, from legendary cities to paradise islands • The UNESCO Sites of Penang and Malacca, with their multicultural Asian, Portuguese and Dutch heritage • The landscapes: the idyllic karst islands of Ko Rok Nok and Ko Kradan with white sand, turquoise waters, tropical vegetation and exceptional seabeds; the spectacular Phang Nga Bay; the rice fields of Langkawi • A rich program of included excursions (4).
Strait of Malacca
Penang
MALAYSIA Port Klang Malacca Singapore
19th December 2027 departure: reverse itinerary.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Cultural riches of Kuching From Kuching | 6 h • [€€€] In Borneo, the Sarawak Cultural Village is a veritable living museum, designed to showcase the culture of seven different communities in this Malaysian state. After a stroll through the village, past traditional huts and longhouses, you’ll enjoy a delicious snack in one of them.
80
| TIMELESS |
Ha Long Bay Ha Long
Vietnamese shores
HONG KONG
Hong Kong
VIET NAM
Singapore • Hong Kong/Hong Kong • Singapore | 14 days/13 nights | Le Soléal: 27th December 2027 and 9th January 2028 | from AU$15,040(1)
Chan May Da Nang Quy Nhon
An unforgettable journey through the heart of a country full of contrasts and mystery • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the ancient imperial city of Huế, the old town of Hoi An, Halong Bay • A tour of Ho Chi Minh City • Natural gems: the Mekong and Saigon rivers, the unspoilt Con Dao archipelago, the spectacular geological formations of Ghenh Da Dia • A packed program of included excursions (4).
Saigon River
China Sea
Ho Chi Minh City Côn Dao Islands
SINGAPORE
Singapore
9th January 2028 departure: reverse itinerary; the order of the stopovers varies. Visit the website: au.ponant.com.
| EXPEDITION |
PHILIPPINES Manila
Exploring the Malay Archipelago
Cuatro Islands
Cresta de Gallo Island
Darwin • Manila/Manila • Darwin | 15 days/14 nights | Le Soléal: 28th August 2027 and 1st June 2028 | from AU$15,350(1)
Limasawa
An expedition between the Philippines and Indonesia, exploring remote islands, traditional communities and some of the world’s richest marine ecosystems • A visit to the Tangkoko Batuangus Nature Reserve • The Moluccas archipelago, a paradise on the Spice Route • The opportunity to go scuba diving • Activities: zodiac outings with naturalist guides, swimming in idyllic spots (Cresta de Gallo, Kitikiti Waterfall, karst formations of Triton Bay).
Tangkoko Nature Reserve
NEW
North Pacific Ocean Pulau Saparua/Pulau Molana Kitikiti Waterfall Triton Bay
INDONESIA Banda Neira
Kei Islands
Darwin
AUSTRALIA
BACK-TO-BACK – Extend your trip by combining it with 11th and 20th September 2027 departures aboard Le Soléal (learn more about our Grand Voyages on p. 99).
1st January 2028 departure: reverse itinerary.
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Hoi An evening beauty From Da Nang | 5 h • [€€€] At the sun sets, Hoi An is decked out in thousands of colourful lanterns, their soft glow illuminates the facades of the houses and is reflected on the river. Experience this magical spectacle as you stroll through the bustling streets with your guide. You'll have the chance to make your own lantern in the workshop of local craftsmen, and sample Vietnamese street food by enjoying the iconic banh mi sandwich.
81
| EXPEDITION |
NEW
Secrets of the Pacific from the Solomon Islands to Palau Honiara • Koror | 16 days/15 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 3rd February 2028 | from AU$17,710(1)
Lamotrek Atoll Puluwat Atoll Chuuk
Koror
MICRONESIA
Outer Islands of Yap
PALAU
A unique odyssey through the heart of a little-known Pacific, from unspoilt shores to secret lagoons • Discover authentic island cultures • Visit remote villages and being welcomed by local communities • Landscapes: lagoons and atolls, the limestone peaks of the Rock Islands (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), coral reefs • The opportunity to go scuba diving, particularly at the Second World War wrecks at Chuuk • Activities: zodiac outings with naturalist guides, swimming with fins, a mask and a snorkel.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA Rabaul
Taiof Island
Pokpok Bay
Njari Island Honiara
SOLOMON ISLANDS Flight Brisbane
Included in your voyage (2): transfer and Brisbane/Honiara flight.
| DISCOVERY |
PHILIPPINES
NEW
Wild islands and Philippine horizons
82
Koror • Manila | 9 days/8 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 18th February 2028 | from AU$9,790(1) A unique adventure through the Philippine archipelago and its natural treasures • The lagoons and limestone formations of the Rock Islands in Palau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a sanctuary for marine life • Explore remote villages by local transport and authentic encounters with the locals • The landscapes: lagoons, beaches, coral reefs, volcanic craters, lush vegetation • Activities: included excursions (4) led by local guides, zodiac outings with naturalist guides, swimming with fins, a mask and a snorkel.
Manila Calapan
Philippine Sea
Sibuyan Island Capul Island
Cresta de Gallo Island
Camiguin Island
PALAOS Koror
| EXPEDITION |
An escapade in the heart of Melanesia Darwin • Lautoka | 17 days/16 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 4th September 2027 | from AU$18,220(1) An escape to the heart of the South Pacific’s most beautiful archipelagos, exploring five countries: Fiji, Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea and Australia • Encounters with local communities whose traditions have been preserved (spirituality, music, dance) • The landscapes: stunning bays, paradisiacal beaches, coral reefs, waterfalls • Activities included, led by naturalist guides.
PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Njari Island
SOLOMON ISLANDS Roderick Bay
Thursday Island Darwin
Lata
Elcho Island
VANUATU
Santa Ana Island
Ureparapara Island
Paradise Lagoon
Mavea Island
Kwato Island
Ambrym Island Lautoka
FIJI
AUSTRALIA
BACK-TO-BACK – Extend your trip by combining it with 20th September 2027 departure aboard Le Jacques Cartier (learn more about our Grand Voyages on p. 99).
Activities and lectures given by an expert from The Explorers Club. | EXPEDITION |
Lautoka • Honiara | 14 days/13 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 21st January 2028 | from AU$18,300(1) Explore three Melanesian countries (Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands) to discover volcanic archipelagos and well-preserved ancestral cultures • The historic port city of Levuka in Fiji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Encounters with local communities • The landscapes: active volcanoes, turquoise lagoons, tropical forests and remote islands • The opportunity to go scuba diving • Activities: zodiac outings with naturalist guides, swimming.
SOLOMON ISLANDS
South Pacific Ocean
Lata Santa Ana Island
Flights Brisbane
Ureparapara Island
Loh Island
NEW
Secret islands of Melanesia
Honiara
Mavea/Paradise Lagoon Ambrym Island
Malekula Epi
Yasawa Islands Lautoka
FIJI Levuka
VANUATU Tanna Island
Included in your voyage (2): transfer and Honiara/Brisbane flight.
83
84
POLYNESIA The Fenua reveals unspoilt paradises to those who take the time to explore it.
85
IN PERSPECTIVE
As close as possible to Polynesian communities Tahiarii Yoram Pariente has been a tour guide for some 20 years. Boasting ancestral Polynesian knowledge of traditional navigation – sailing pirogues and astronomical guidance – he has set himself the task of passing on and sharing the deep-reaching Polynesian sense of identity.
“When I’m talking with our visitors, I want first and foremost to explain what Polynesia is like from a Polynesian’s point of view. Twenty-three million square kilometres from Hawaii to the Cook Islands, New Zealand to Easter Island: the Polynesian people is recognised by UNESCO as covering the most expansive area on the planet, with 3,000 years of history and oral traditions. It was our navigational science that made this extraordinary space-time dimension possible, and our strong cultural practices maintained a coherent society until Westerners arrived. “Polynesian culture is now experiencing a revival. Throughout the Polynesian triangle, there are men and women bringing dance, tattooing, sculpture and music to life... In general, guests are already well-informed about what they want to discover, so it’s up to us, as native tour guides, to take them further, beyond folklore, so that they can learn about the deep-rooted culture. “This identity is particularly important in the Marquesas Islands, due to their remote location at the heart of the ocean. More sheltered from Western influences, the Marquesans have cultivated ancestral traditions in a deliberately primitive style. The Marquesan language – the ‘mother of all Polynesian languages’ – is used on a daily basis.
Tahiarii Yoram Pariente Tour guide and sailor
86
“I’d say that there is a ‘before’ and an ‘after’ for anyone lucky enough to visit the Marquesas Islands. It’s such a unique world that it raises spiritual questions, it makes you really think about the meaning of life, as Paul Gauguin understood with his painting Where Do We Come From? What Are We? Where Are We Going?.”
SEASONAL CURIOSITIES
Book tip In A Lapse of Memory, his masterpiece published in 1907, Victor Segalen sets the narrative at the arrival of the first explorers in Tahiti and the ensuing clash of civilisations. A story at the crossroads of adventure and ethnology. Itineraries p. 88 to 93
The art of storytelling In Polynesia, each island and each clan passes down ancient myths orally from generation to generation. These stories vary depending on who tells and hears them: tales such as a'ai, ‘a‘amu and ua are recited by mothers to young children; ūtē, improvised and playful, are sung to the young; while epics and genealogies are chanted by men, accompanied by choreographed gestures. Itineraries p. 88 to 93
The cliffs of Rurutu The Austral island of Rurutu has the air of a mysterious island: its vertiginous karst cliffs, pierced with caves, create a truly mesmerising landscape. From the jagged formations of the ‘monster’s mouth’, Ana Taupe’e, to the baroque-like columns of Ana A’eo, and on to Ana Eva, the ‘cave of tears’, each of these limestone caverns is steeped in legend. Itinerary: Secret Polynesia: unexplored Tuamotu, the Gambier Islands and the Austral Islands, p. 88
7
The mysteries of taro
The number of ray species found in Pacific lagoons: two species of giant manta rays, Mobula alfredi and Mobula birostris; the blue-spotted stingray, recognisable by its long tail; the rare leopard ray; Mobula tarapacana, with its mustard-coloured body; the pelagic stingray, found only offshore; and the marbled electric ray, endemic to the Marquesas Islands.
Whether known as taro, elephant ear, songe, madère or dachine, Colocasia esculenta holds a central place in Polynesia. From this striking perennial with its dramatic foliage, almost everything is consumed (except the inflorescence): the young leaves and the tuber with its sweet flesh. Everything is edible, provided it is cooked; when eaten raw, its calcium oxalate crystals make it toxic.
Itineraries p. 88 to 93
Itineraries p. 88 to 93
87
| TIMELESS |
Ancestral cultures of the South Pacific Lautoka • Papeete | 14 days/13 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 20th September 2027 | from AU$18,280(1)
FRENCH POLYNESIA Society Islands Bora Bora
Papeete • Lautoka | 13 days/12 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 9th January 2028 | from AU$12,410(1) A journey through Fiji, Tonga, the Cook Islands and the Society Islands, discovering idyllic atolls, hidden paradises and the Polynesian way of life • Visit to Suva, the modern and dynamic capital of Fiji • Landscapes: crystalclear lagoons, coral atolls and volcanic mountains • Marine life: tropical fish, manta rays and sharks • The opportunity to go scuba diving • A rich program of included activities and optional excursions.
BACK-TO-BACK – Extend your trip by combining it with 4th September 2027 departure aboard Le Jacques Cartier (learn more about our Grand Voyages on p.99).
Taha’a, motu Mahana Raiatea
Moorea Tahiti
Aitutaki
FIJI Lautoka
Papeete
COOK ISLANDS
Savusavu
Suva
Vava’u
Beqa Island
TONGA
Pacific Ocean
9th January 2028 departure: reverse itinerary which does not include stops at Taha’a, Raiatea and Beqa Island.
| DISCOVERY |
Secret Polynesia: unexplored Tuamotu, the Gambier Islands and the Austral Islands
88
Tuamotu
Papeete
Tahiti
Papeete • Papeete | 15 days/14 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 17th October 2027 | from AU$19,030(1) Exploring the Gambier and Austral archipelagos, little-known territories that are among the wildest and most isolated in Polynesia • Authentic encounters with the islanders • The landscapes: lagoons, coral reefs, atolls, lush green mountains, cliffs sculpted by the ocean • The opportunity to go scuba diving • A wide range of activities organised in partnership with local communities, accompanied by naturalist guides.
FRENCH POLYNESIA
Fakarava Anaa
Hikueru
Rurutu
Austral Islands Tubuai
Raivavae
Pacific Ocean Rapa
Aukena/Rikitea
Gambier Islands
| DISCOVERY |
From confidential French Polynesia to Pitcairn Island
FRENCH POLYNESIA
Papeete • Papeete | 15 days/14 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 12th December 2027 | from AU$16,330(1) Christmas celebrations in the Tuamotu and Gambier archipelagos, the unspoilt jewels of French Polynesia, and on to the legendary Pitcairn Island • A journey into the very soul of Polynesia, its history and its living traditions • Paradise-like landscapes: secluded beaches, spectacular lagoons, teeming coral reefs, lush mangroves • The opportunity to go scuba diving • Activities designed in collaboration with local communities, accompanied by naturalist guides.
Mataiva Rangiroa
Tuamotu Islands
Papeete
Anaa
Tahiti
Makemo Amanu Hikueru
Pacific Ocean
Pitcairn Islands
Gambier Islands
Adamstown
Rikitea/Aukena
| DISCOVERY |
Atuona
Hatiheu
Polynesian bliss: Marquesas and Tuamotu Papeete • Papeete | 15 days/14 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: 31st October, 14th and 28th November and 26th December 2027 | from AU$16,390(1) An escape to the most beautiful archipelagos of French Polynesia, featuring a journey of discovery through the legendary Marquesas Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • The sacred archaeological sites and giant sculptures of Hiva Oa and Nuku Hiva • The landscapes: waterfalls, cliffs and lush valleys of the Marquesas, the Fakarava lagoon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • The opportunity to go scuba diving • Activities designed in collaboration with local communities, accompanied by naturalist guides.
Nuku Hiva
Ua Huka
Hakahetau Ua Pou
Marquesas Islands Puama’u
Hiva Oa
Hapatoni
Taiohae
Omoa
Fatu Hiva Rangiroa Makatea
Tuamotu
Pacific Ocean
Fakarava Moorea
Society Islands
Papeete
Tahiti
FRENCH POLYNESIA
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Relaxing sojourn in Bora Bora and Tahiti After your voyage | Papeete • 3 nights (3) Situated on motu Tevairoa, nestled in lush scenery, the 5* Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts – a Relais & Châteaux establishment awarded two Michelin keys – is decorated in a Polynesian style. You can spend three nights after your voyage in the romantic, idyllic setting of the Island of the Gods. Return flights between Papeete and Bora Bora and a day room at the 4* Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts hotel are included in the package.
89
Member of PONANT EXPLORATIONS
Embark on a truly immersive journey through the South Pacific. An award-winning ship, the m/s Paul Gauguin reveals the soul of Polynesia to guests. Our Gauguines and Gauguins Polynesian hosts contribute to the warm ambiance on board.
Watch
Experience the rhythm of the Polynesian archipelagos. 90
Taha’a, Motu Mahana
Tahiti and the Society Islands Papeete • Papeete | 8 days/7 nights | Paul Gauguin: 16th and 30th October, 27th November and 11th December 2027, 26th February, 4th March and 8th April 2028 | from AU$7,510(1)
FRENCH POLYNESIA Society Islands Bora Bora
Huahine
Iconic islands including Bora Bora, Moorea and Huahine • An opportunity to discover traditional Polynesian culture and local island crafts • A special experience enjoying an intimate barbecue on motu Mahana, an exclusive islet • The opportunity to go scuba diving.
Papeete Moorea Pacifіc Ocean
Tahiti
For departures in 2028, the order of stopovers varies. Visit the website: au.ponant.com.
Bora Bora
Pearls of the Society Islands
Taha’a, Motu Mahana FRENCH POLYNESIA Society Islands
Papeete • Papeete | 8 days/7 nights | Paul Gauguin: 23rd October and 4th December 2027, 5th February and 1st April 2028 | from AU$7,110(1) In addition to the iconic islands of the Society Islands, discover the legendary island of Raiatea • Discover the ancient Polynesian culture and its island crafts • Enjoy a special moment over an intimate barbecue on motu Mahana, an exclusive islet • The opportunity to go scuba diving.
Raiatea
Huahine Papeete Moorea
Pacifіc Ocean
Tahiti
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Idyllic stay at The Brando 5* hotel Before your voyage | Papeete • 3 nights (3) Fly by private jet to the unspoilt atoll of Tetiaroa and stay at one of the most exclusive resorts in French Polynesia, a global icon of sustainable luxury: Marlon Brando’s one-time retreat. From your private villa overlooking the lagoon, you can explore the island on foot or by pirogue. Holistic spa treatments and cuisine created by renowned chefs round off this precious and unforgettable experience.
91
Bora Bora
Society Islands and the Tuamotus Papeete • Papeete | 12 days/11 nights | Paul Gauguin: 11th March and 15th April 2028 | 11 days/10 nights | Paul Gauguin: 6th October, 17th November and 29th December 2027, 19th January, 22nd March and 26th April 2028 | from AU$12,670(1) Explore iconic islands in the Society and Tuamotu archipelagos, including Huahine, Bora Bora, Taha’a and Moorea • Discover the Fakarava Biosphere Reserve and the ‘infinite lagoon’ of Rangiroa • A special moment enjoying an intimate barbecue on motu Mahana, an exclusive islet • The opportunity to go scuba diving.
15th April 2028 departure: Activities and lectures given by an expert from The Explorers Club.
Taha’a, Motu Mahana Rangiroa Tuamotu
Huahine Raiatea
FRENCH POLYNESIA
Society Islands
Fakarava Moorea
Papeete Tahiti
Pacifіc Ocean
11th March 2028 departure. For departures on 6th October, 17th November and 29th December 2027, there is no stopover in Raiatea. Stopovers and their order vary from one departure to another. More information on our website.
Cook Islands and Society Islands Papeete • Papeete | 12 days/11 nights | Paul Gauguin: 6th November and 18th December 2027 and 8th January 2028 | from AU$13,120(1) Explore the Society Islands and the Cook Islands with stops at iconic destinations: Bora Bora, Moorea, Aitutaki and many other idyllic locations • Breathtaking Polynesian landscapes such as the valley of Rarotonga • An intimate barbecue on motu Mahana, an exclusive islet, and an introduction to the Polynesian way of life • The opportunity to go scuba diving (Level 1 or equivalent) with an experienced instructor to admire Polynesian marine life.
Society Islands Bora Bora
Huahine
Papeete Moorea
Tahiti Aitutaki
COOK ISLANDS FRENCH POLYNESIA
Rarotonga
6th November 2027 departure: activities and lectures given by an expert from The Explorers Club.
92
Taha’a, motu Mahana
Pacific Ocean
Marquesas Islands Hiva Oa
Nuku Hiva
Pacific Ocean
Tahuata
Marquesas, the Tuamotus and Society Islands Papeete • Papeete | 15 days/14 nights | Paul Gauguin: 12th February 2028 | from AU$19,310(1) A mosaic of Polynesia’s most beautiful archipelagos, including the Society Islands, the Tuamotu Islands and the legendary Marquesas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site • Discover Polynesian history and its sculptures on Hiva Oa, traditional crafts on Fatu Hiva, and fascinating landscapes such as the lagoon of Fakarava • The opportunity to go scuba diving.
Fatu Hiva Bora Bora Taha’a, motu Mahana
Rangiroa Huahine
Society Islands
Tuamotu Fakarava
Moorea Papeete
Tahiti FRENCH POLYNESIA
E N H A N C E YO U R VOYAG E
Tahitian fragrance and culture Before your voyage | Papeete • 2 nights (3) A Tahitian prelude, combining relaxation at the hotel with an exploration of the culture of the fenua (‘land’ in Tahitian)... You'll discover the secrets of monoï, a blend of coconut oil and fragrant tiare flowers, before heading to the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands; fully renovated, it showcases Polynesian culture. Your stay concludes with a guided tour of Papeete market and a stroll along the seafront towards the Paofai Gardens.
EXPLORE We offer a number of optional excursions at each stopover and comprehensive pre- and post-voyage stays. Take a look at our wide selection.
93
Founded in 2007, Aqua Expeditions joined PONANT EXPLORATIONS in 2025. A pioneering brand in the field of experiential travel, it skillfully blends a refined lifestyle and the spirit of adventure. THE SIGNATURE AQUA EXPERIENCE A fleet of superyachts and river ships hosting 16 to 40 guests. Guided explorations with English-speaking experts in groups of up to 12 people. Personalised and refined service: a crew-to-guest ratio of 1 to 1. Regionally inspired dining experiences created by world-renowned chefs. Initiatives and partnerships dedicated to the conservation of marine biodiversity.
More details 94
Seychelles and Tanzania
Cambodia and Vietnam
Galápagos Islands
Svalbard and The Arctic Circle
Peruvian Amazon
East Indonesia
95
96
Journeys of discovery PONANT EXPLORATIONS and Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution, have formed a unique alliance to offer themed sailings featuring experiences that embrace local cultures and dive deeper into a destinationʼs history, cuisine, language, environment and wildlife. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, these voyages include transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each stopover that immerses guests in the sights, sounds, tastes and smells of each destination, and helps provide a deeper understanding of the places we explore.
Discover all the departures of the 2027–2028 season, in alliance with Smithsonian Journeys. 97
TRAVEL LONGER & SAVE
with a Grand Voyage Discover a few new options below, and speak to one of our consultants for more information.
GRAND VOYAGES Keep the adventure going by combining several voyages and enjoy exclusive savings of up to 20% on each departure within selected itineraries*.
Between two oceans, from the Pacific to the Caribbean Sea Puntarenas • Fort-de-France | 23 days/22 nights | Le Bougainville: from 23rd February to 16th March 2028 | from AU$21,137 (1) Mangroves, tropical forests, black-sand beaches… Acting as a bridge between two continents, Panama and Costa Rica boast a unique wealth of biodiversity. Explore their national parks, then head to the Caribbean via the Panama Canal and the Colombian coastline. Offshore, a turquoise sea embraces stunning archipelagos, such as the San Blas, home to the Kuna community, or the Grenadines, a scattering of islets linked by the most beautiful coral reef in the Caribbean.
This Grand Voyage is made up of the following voyages: • Secrets of Central America 23rd February 2028 – see p. 47. • Panama, Colombia and Caribbean islands 4th March 2028 – see p. 48.
Les Saintes Fort-de-France
Caribbean Sea
Bonaire Portobelo
Curú Wildlife Refuge Puerto Jiménez
Colón Panama Canal
San Carlos
Pearl Islands Playa Muerto Darién National Park
Pacheca Island
98
Santa Marta Cartagena
PANAMA
Rio Esquinas
Coiba Island
San Blas Islands
Port Elizabeth Mayreau
COSTA RICA Puntarenas
MARTINIQUE
Pigeon Island/Soufrière
COLOMBIA
Pacific harmonies Darwin • Papeete | 30 days/29 nights | Le Jacques Cartier: from 4th September to 3rd October 2027 | from AU$34,715 (1) From Arnhem Land in Australia to the Polynesian archipelagos, via Melanesia, the diversity of the landscapes mirrors that of the peoples who have shaped them. Seafaring traditions, rituals, songs and dances bear witness to the close bond between the communities you will encounter and their environment. Crystal-clear lagoons, volcanic landscapes, palm-fringed beaches and seabeds teeming with life will transport you to a world of their own.
This Grand Voyage is made up of the following voyages: • An escapade in the heart of Melanesia 4th September 2027 – see p. 83. • Ancestral cultures of the South Pacific 20th September 2027 – see p. 88.
Njari Island PAPUA NEW GUINEA
SOLOMON ISLANDS
Elcho Island
Darwin
FRENCH POLYNESIA
Roderick Bay
Society Islands
South Pacific Ocean
Kwato Island
Taha’a, motu Mahana
Bora Bora
Lata
Thursday Island Santa Ana Island
Raiatea
Ureparapara Island Paradise Lagoon
AUSTRALIA
VANUATU
Aitutaki
Mavea Island
Moorea Papeete
Savusavu Ambrym
Tahiti Lautoka FIJI
Suva
COOK ISLANDS
Vava’u Beqa Island
TONGA
Asian tropics, from Indonesia to Japan
Osaka Kochi
Shingu
Kagoshima
Darwin • Osaka | 33 days/32 nights | Le Soléal: from 28th August to 29th September 2027 | from AU$38,350 (1) Indonesia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Japan: as this odyssey unfolds, the contours of East Asia are revealed amid secluded coastlines, Buddhist monuments, colonial heritage and traditional crafts. From one archipelago to the next, seaside villages, peaceful bays and islands set against emerald waters form an idyllic backdrop, while beneath the surface, a rich variety of marine life is easily observed.
JAPAN
Miyanoura
Motobu Miyakojima Keelung
Ishigaki
TAIWAN Kaohsiung City
Naha
Philippine Sea
Batanes Claveria
Currimao
San Fernando
Hundred Islands National Park
Manila
Corregidor Island Cresta de Gallo Island
Cuatro Islands
Limasawa PHILIPPINES
This Grand Voyage is made up of the following voyages: • Exploring the Malay Archipelago 28th August 2027 – see p. 81. • Nature and heritage from the Philippines to Taiwan 11th September 2027 – see p. 78. • Odyssey in the heart of Japan’s subtropical islands 20th September 2027 – see p. 76.
North Pacific Ocean
Tangkoko Nature Reserve INDONESIA
Kitikiti Waterfall
Pulau Saparua/Pulau Molana
Triton Bay
Banda Neira
Kei Islands PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Darwin AUSTRALIA
Find the highlights of these itineraries on the pages corresponding to each voyage, and the specific formalities of each voyage on p. 122–123. * Discount applicable to the voyage-only fare (excluding port taxes), not applicable to ocean voyages, and subject to availability at the time of booking. It cannot be combined with travel agent rates.
99
100
WELCOME ON BOARD 101
The Sisterships As yachts on a human scale, with just 122 or 132 staterooms, Le Boréal, L’Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial can gain access to isolated places and ports reserved for small vessels. They are thus faithful to the PONANT EXPLORATIONS DNA: exploring the world with constantly renewed curiosity.
102
Amenities Butler service for certain suites • King-size bed or twin beds depending on the stateroom, communicating staterooms available (children welcome) • Direct satellite telephone line • Free unlimited Wi-Fi internet access*.
Discover all our services on au.ponant.com. *Depending on the navigation areas, the Wi-Fi may not be accessible for reasons beyond our control.
103
SISTERSHIPS Deck plans
Deck plans
DECK 7
Scan here for immediate embarkation on board our Sisterships.
Pool Bar
DECK 6 626 624
622 620
618 616
614 612 610 608
604
Bar
602
Observatory Lounge
Grill
Pool
625 623 621
619 617
615 611 609 607 605
603
601
604
602
603
601
Panoramic Terrace
Library
DECK 6 - Le Lyrial 614
612
610
608
615
611
609
607
606
Bar Observatory Panoramic Terrace Lounge
Grill
Pool
605
Library
Stateroom 615 alone is an Upper decks balcony stateroom.
DECK 5 Fitness Studio Ponant
Spa
536 534 532 530
528 526 524 522 520
518 516 514 512 510
508 506 504 502
Bridge
539 537 535 533
531 529 527 525 523
521 519 517 515 511
509 507 505 503 501
DECK 4 434 432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418 416 414 412 410 408
Theatre
437 435 433 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 411 409 407 405 403 401
DECK 3 Excursions Desk Main Lounge
Bar Shop
Reception Desk
334 332 330 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312 310 308
306 304 302
Medical Centre 337 335 333 331 329 327 325 323 321 319 317 315 311 309
307
305
303
301
300
DECK 2
Marina
Gastronomic Restaurant
Owner’s Suite Deck 6
Grand Suite
Deck 6 (Le Lyrial)
Grand Privilege Suite Deck 6 (Le Lyrial)
104
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Suite
Deck 6
Privilege Suite Deck 6 (Le Lyrial)
Decks 5 - 6 (except Le Lyrial)
Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom Deck 3
Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom Decks 4 - 5 - 6
Window or Porthole Stateroom Deck 3
Discover your Stateroom Ownerʼs Suite aboard Le Lyrial
Grand Privilege Suite aboard Le Lyrial
(55 sq.m/581 sq.ft + 12 sq.m/129 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay windows)
Privilege Suite aboard Le Lyrial (37 sq.m/388 sq.ft + 8 sq.m/ 86 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay windows)
(55.5 sq.m/581 sq.ft + 12 sq.m/129 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay windows)
Balcony
Balcony
Balcony
Sofa
Tv
Tv
Tv
Sofa
Tv Dining room Tv
Tv
Tv Bar
Spa bathtub
WC
Bar
Dressing room Shower
WC
Bar
Dressing room
Bathtub
Dressing room
Bathtub
Dressing room
Shower
Shower
WC
Dressing room
Shower
WC
WC
Suite Grand Privilège - LYRIAL PONT 6
Ownerʼs Suite
Grand Suite (former Grand Deluxe Suite) aboard Le Lyrial
(45 sq.m/484 sq.ft + 9 sq.m/97 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay windows)
Prestige Suite
(37 sq.m/398 sq.ft + 8 sq.m/86 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay windows)
(45 sq.m/484 sq.ft + 12 sq.m/108 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay windows) Balcony
Balcony
Tv
Balcony
Balcony
Tv
Sofa Sofa
Sofa
Sofa
Dining room
Tv
Tv
Tv
Tv
Dining room Tv
Tv
Dressing room
Balneo bathtub
Balneo bathtub
Dressing room Shower
WC
Bar
Bar
Bar
Desk
Bar
Dressing room
Bar
Shower
Shower Bar
WC WC
WC WC
Dressing room
Dressing room
Shower
Shower
WC
WC CW
Dressing room
WC
WC
Suite Armateur - AUSTRAL - UK PONT 6
Deluxe Suite
WC
Shower
Prestige Suites aboard Le Boréal & Le Soléal: Suites Prestige - AUSTRAL 1 shower and 1 bathtub. PONTS 6 - 5
Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom (former Prestige Stateroom)
(27 sq.m/290 sq.ft + 5 sq.m/54 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay window)
Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom (former Deluxe Stateroom)
(18.5 sq.m/200 sq.ft + 4 sq.m/43 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay window)
Balcony
Deck 4
Deck 5–6
Balcony
Balcony
(18.5 sq.m/200 sq.ft + 4 sq.m/ 43 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay windows and windows) Balcony Balcony
Balcony
Window or Porthole Stateroom (former Superior Stateroom)
(21 sq.m/226 sq.ft)
Balcony
Bar
Daybed
Daybed
Daybed
Bar Bar
Bar
Tv
Tv
Sofa
Bar
Tv
Sofa
Tv
Shower
Shower
Tv
Bar
Tv Dressing room
WC
WC
Dressing room
Deluxe Suites aboard Le Boréal:
and 1 bathtub Suites Deluxe1-shower AUSTRAL PONT 6
Bar
Bar
Bar
Shower
Shower
WC
WC
TvTv Dressing room
Dressing room
Dressing room
Shower
WC
Cabines Prestiges - AUSTRAL - UK PONTS 4 - 5 - 6
Shower
WC
Cabines Deluxe - AUSTRAL - UK PONT 3
Dressing room
Shower
Dressing room room
WC Dressing
Shower
Tv
WC Shower
Shower
WC
WC
Dressing room
Cabines Supérieures - AUSTRAL PONT 3
105
The PONANT EXPLORERS Equipped with only 92 staterooms, an underwater lounge, the Blue Eye, and the latest technologies to limit the impact on the environment, Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont d’Urville, Le Bellot and Le Jacques Cartier enable you to make stopovers in remote regions.
106
Amenities Butler service for certain suites • King-size bed or twin beds depending on the stateroom, communicating staterooms available (children welcome) • Direct satellite telephone line • Free unlimited Wi-Fi internet access*.
Discover all our services on au.ponant.com. *Depending on the navigation areas, the Wi-Fi may not be accessible for reasons beyond our control.
107
PONANT EXPLORERS Deck plans Deck plans
DECK 7
Spa Sun Deck
Fitness
DECK 6
620 618
616
619
617
614 612 610
Art Gallery, Studio Ponant
Observatory Lounge
608 606 604 602
Library 621
615
611 609 607 605 603
601
DECK 5
534 532 530
528
533 531
529
535
526 524 522 520 518 516 514 512 510 508 506
504 502
Bridge
527 525 523 521 519 517 515 511 509 507 505 503 501
DECK 4
418 416 414 412 410 408
406 404 402
Restaurant 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417 415 411 409 407 405 403 401
DECK 3 Grill
Marina
Shop Main Lounge
Pool
Deck 5
Deluxe Suite
Decks 3 - 4 - 5 - 6
108
302
Theatre
Reception Medical Desk 317 315 311 309 307 305 303 301 Centre
Bar
Owner’s Suite
Excursions Desk 312 310 308 306 304
Privilege Suite Decks 5 - 6
Grand Suite Deck 6
Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom Decks 4 - 5 - 6
Prestige Suite Decks 5 - 6
Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom Deck 3
sofa
Discover your Stateroom Ownerʼs Suite
Grand Suite (former Grand Deluxe Suite)
(45 sq.m/484 sq.ft + 40 sq.m/430 sq.ft private terrace with hot tub and sliding bay windows)
(45 sq.m/484 sq.ft + 32 sq.m/323 sq.ft private terrace with sliding bay windows)
WC
Balneo bathtub
Hot tub TV
Mini bar Dressing room
TV
Patio
Shower
WC
WC
TV
Dressing Room
Minibar
Shower
TV
Patio
Balneo bathtub WC
Privilege Suite
Prestige Suite
(32 sq.m/344 sq.ft + 8 sq.m/86 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay window)
Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom (former Prestige Stateroom)
(38 sq.m/409 sq.ft + 8 sq.m/86 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay window or French window)
(19 sq.m/204 sq.ft + 4 sq.m/43 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay window or French window) Deck 4
Dressing room
WC
WC Shower
Dressing room
WC
WC
Shower
Shower
Decks 5 + 6
Dressing room
Dressing room
WC
Shower
Shower
Dressing room
Dressing room Minibar
Minibar
Minibar
TV
TV
Sofa Bed
Balcony
Balcony
TV
Minibar
Minibar
TV
TV
Balcony
Balcony
Balcony
Suite Prestige
Suite Privilege Deluxe Suite
Suite Prestige Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom (former Deluxe Stateroom)
(27.5 sq.m/291 sq.ft + 6 sq.m/65 sq.ft private balcony with sliding bay window)
(19 sq.m/204 sq.ft + 4 sq.m/43 sq.ft private balcony with French window)
WC WC
Dressing room
Dressing room
Shower
Shower Dressing room TV
Minibar
Minibar
TV
Scan here for immediate embarkation on board the PONANT EXPLORERS. Balcony Balcony
Suite Deluxe
109
Le Commandant Charcot As the world's only luxury icebreaker and the first and only hybrid electric-liquefied natural gas polar exploration ship, Le Commandant Charcot encapsulates an eco-friendly design never before seen in the polar regions. Furnished with 123 staterooms, she will carry you beyond known lands accessible to other ships. Two research laboratories on board enable scientists to collect data that will increase our knowledge of the poles.
110
Amenities Private balcony or terrace for all our staterooms and suites • Butler service and priority boarding for certain suites • King-size bed or twin beds depending on the stateroom, communicating staterooms available (children welcome) • Direct satellite telephone line • Free unlimited Wi-Fi internet access*.
Discover all our services on au.ponant.com. *Depending on the navigation areas, the Wi-Fi may not be accessible for reasons beyond our control.
111
CHARCOT Deck plans
Deck plans DECK 9 Spa
Detox bar Bar
Snow room
Library
Pool Bar
Blue Lagoon
Restaurant
Observatory Lounge
Fitness
DECK 8
826
824
822
820
818 816 814 812 810 808 806
804
802
838 836 834 832 830 828
Bridge 840 841 839 837 835 833 831 829
827
825
823
821 819 817 815 811 809 807 805 803 801
DECK 7
640
740 738 736 752 750 748 746 744 742
726 724 722 720 718 716 714 712 710 708 706 704 734 732 730 728
702
642 645 643
753 751 749 747 745 743 741 739 737 735 733 731 729 727 725 723 721 719 717 715 711 709 707 705 703 701
DECK 6
640
628
626 624 622 620 618 616 614 612 610 608
638 636 634
632 630
641 639 637
635 633 631 629 627 625 623 621 619 617 615 611 609 607 605 603 601
606 604 602
642 645 643
Conference Room
DECK 5 Promenade Deck
Aft Bridge
Reception Desk
Gastronomic Restaurant
Expeditions Desk
Photo Studio
Cigar Lounge
Travel Ambassador desk
Shop
Theatre
Main Lounge Bar Promenade Deck
DECK 3 / Expedition Room - Conference Room Owner’s Suite Deck 8
Deluxe Suite Decks 6 - 7 - 8
112
Privilege Suite Deck 8
Grand Suite Deck 6
Duplex Suite Decks 6 - 7
Prestige Suite Decks 7 - 8
Upper Decks Balcony Staterooms - Decks 7 - 8 and Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom - Deck 6
Discover your Stateroom Ownerʼs Suite (115 sq.m/1,237 sq.ft + 186 sq.m/2,002 sq.ft private terrace
Le Charcot cabin plan with hot tub • balneo bathtub)
Le Charcot cabin plan
OWNER'S SUITE
42 sq.m/452 sq.ft + 5 sq.m/54 sq.ft private balcony)
L PRIVILEGE SUITE
Hot tub
Balcony
Daybed
Patio
Mini bar
TV Balneo Bathtub
Desk Sofa
Shower WC
Shower
Balneo Bathtub
TV
TV
WC
WC Dining Room Dressing Room
Dressing Room
an
Mini bar
Dressing Room
WC
Le Charcot cabin plan
Privilege Suite
Prestige Suite
CONNECTED PRESTIGE SUITE
(48 sq.m/516 sq.ft + 12.5 sq.m/134.5 sq.ft private balcony • balneo bathtub) Le Charcot cabin plan
Duplex Suite
(40 sq.m/430 sq.ftDressing + 10 sq.m/107 sq.ft private balcony) Room
(94 sq.m/1,011 sq.ft + 26 sq.m/279 sq.ft private terrace with hot tub • balneo bathtub)
WC Balcony
DUPLEX SUITE
Balcony
Shower
TV
Dressing Room
Stair Le Charcot cabin plan
Stair
WC
Dressing
DUPLEX SUITE
Balneo Bathtub
WC
Stair
Stair Shower
Sofa TV
TV
Balneo Bathtub Mini Dressing Room bar
Mini bar
Balneo Bathtub
Dressing Room
Shower
Mini bar
Dressing Room
WC
Shower
WC
Shower
WC
Dressing Room
Dining Room
Dressing Room
WC
Dressing Room Mini bar
Sofa
arcot cabin plan
CABIN
Grand Suite (former Grand Prestige Suite)
Deluxe Suite
Upper and Lower Decks Balcony Staterooms (former Prestige Staterooms)
(28 sq.m/301 sq.ft + 5 sq.m/53 sq.ft private balcony) Plan cabine Le Charcot CABINE PRESTIGE
Balcony
Mini bar
TV
(20 sq.m/215 sq.ft + 5 sq.m/53 sq.ft private balcony)
Balcony
TV
Hot tub
Daybed
Patio Balcony
Daybed
TV
Pat TV Mini bar
TV Shower
Dressing Room
Mini bar
Mini bar
WC
Shower
WC
Dressing Room Shower
Dressing Room
Scan here for immediate embarkation on board Le Commandant Charcot.
WC
113
Le Ponant Furnished with 16 staterooms and suites, Le Ponant reinvents the voyage by going with the flow. Enjoy exceptional moments aboard the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht. Whether you’re passionate about sailing or a fan of la dolce vita, you will enjoy the pleasure of reconnecting with the elements.
114
Amenities Private balcony for certain suites and staterooms • King-size bed or twin beds depending on the stateroom, communicating staterooms available (children welcome) • Direct satellite telephone line • Free unlimited Wi-Fi internet access*.
Discover all our services on au.ponant.com. *Depending on the navigation areas, the Wi-Fi may not be accessible for reasons beyond our control.
115
LE PONANT Deck Plans
Deck plans DECK 5
Bar
Sun Deck
DECK 4
Restaurant 1
DECK 3
Welcome Lounge Marina
Lounge Bar
4
Reception Desk
Bar
2
5
3
Beauty Area
Fitness
DECK 2
16
Medical Centre
17
12
15
10
11
8
9
6
7
1: Owner Suite
6 and 16: Porthole Stateroom
2: Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom
7, 9, 12, 14, 15 and 17: Window Stateroom
3 and 5: Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom
8 and 11: Junior Suite
4: Privilege Suite
10: Prestige Suite
4+2: Grand Privilege Suite
116
14
Discover your Stateroom Ownerʼs Suite
Prestige Suite (former Prestige Mistral Suite)
(47 sq.m/506 sq.ft + 9 sq.m/97 sq.ft private balcony)
Junior Suite (former Junior Mistral Suite)
(27 sq.m/291 sq.ft + two portholes)
(21 sq.m/226 sq.ft + two portholes)
Dressing room
Shower WC
WC
Shower Shower
Safe
Dressing
WC
TV
Dressing room Mini bar
TV
WC
TV
Dressing
Dressing room
Window Stateroom (former Prestige Mistral Stateroom)
Porthole Stateroom (former Mistral Stateroom)
(16 sq.m/172 sq.ft + window)
Balcony
(14 sq.m/151 sq.ft + porthole) WC
Grand Privilege Suite (former Alizés Grand Privilege Suite)
Shower TV TV
(49 sq.m/527 sq.ft + 13 sq.m/140 sq.ft private balcony)
Dressing Balcony
Dressing
WC Shower
TV
Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom (former Alizés Prestige Stateroom)
WC
TV WC
Dressing
Dressing
Shower
Shower
(16 sq.m/172 sq.ft + 8 sq.m/86 sq.ft private balcony)
Dressing
Privilege Suite (former Alizés Privilege Suite)
(30 sq.m/323 sq.ft + 9 sq.m/97 sq.ft private balcony)
Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom (former Alizés Stateroom)
WC TV
Shower
(19 sq.m/205 sq.ft + 4 sq.m/43 sq.ft private balcony)
Balcony
Balcony
Balcony
TV WC
TV WC
Dressing
Dressing
Shower
Shower
Scan here for immediate embarkation on board Le Ponant.
117
The m/s Paul Gauguin The 165 suites and staterooms of the m/s Paul Gauguin, renovated in 2025, all benefit from exterior views and are tastefully furnished and decorated. The use of fine materials such as premium wood and tiki design elements pays homage to Polynesian culture and combines elegantly with bright colours. The atmosphere on board is suffused with its inimitable style, which permeates every aspect of the guest experience. Result: the ambiance is relaxed and easy going!
118
Amenities Butler service for certain suites and staterooms • Queen-size, king-size bed or two single beds; some staterooms also have a sofa bed • Marble bathroom with bathtub (except 7 staterooms with shower only) • Direct satellite telephone line • Free unlimited Wi-Fi internet access*.
Discover all our services on au.ponant.com. *Depending on the navigation areas, the Wi-Fi may not be accessible for reasons beyond our control.
119
PAUL GAUGUIN Deck plans Deck Plans
DECK 9
Denotes stateroom with two twin beds that convert to a large double bed. Denotes stateroom with triple occupancy. Staterooms 415 and 416 are wheelchair accessible. Notes: the convertible daybeds in triple occupancy staterooms offer sleeping space measuring 75x200 cm (Porthole, Window and Balcony Staterooms) or 130x180 cm (other Veranda Staterooms and Suites). Connecting staterooms on deck 7: 762–760, 758–756, 761–759, 757–755.
Sun Deck
Bar
DECK 8 Grill
Bar
Bar
818 816 814 812 810 808 806 804
802
Pool
Lounge
817 815 813 811 809 807 805 803 801
DECK 7 764
762 760 758 756 754 752 750 748 746 744 742 740 738 736 734 732 730 728 726 724 722 720 718 716 714
712
710 708 706 704 702 7006 7004
766
7002
Bridge
767 765 763 761 759 757 755 753 751 749 747 745 743 741 739 737 735 733 731 729 727 725 723 721 719 717 715 713
711
709 707 705 703
701 7003
DECK 6 Fitness
Shop Restaurant
626 624 622 620 618 616 614 612 610 608 606 604 602
Spa Fare Tahiti Digital Museum
Promenade Deck 625 623 621 619 617 615 613 611 609 607 605 603 601
DECK 5 Library Piano bar
Restaurant
Main Lounge Bar
Studio Ponant
DECK 4 440 438 436 434 432 430 428 426 424 422 420 418
Reception Desk
416 414 412 410 408 406 404
Excursions Desk
439 437 435 433 431 429 427 425 423 421 419 417
Diving Center
415 413 411 409 407 405
DECK 3 328 326 324 322 320 318 316 314 312
310 308 306 304
Medical Centre
Marina
Owner’s Suite - Deck 7 (2)
Grand Suite - Deck 8 (2)
Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom Deck 7 (63)
Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom Deck 6 (26)
Denotes stateroom with triple occupancy.
120
Veranda Suite - Deck 7 (5)
Veranda Stateroom - Deck 8 (16) Deck 7 (1)
Window Stateroom Deck 4 (37)
Porthole Stateroom Deck 3 (13)
• Denotes stateroom with two twin beds that convert to a queen.
Discover your Stateroom Ownerʼs Suite 701
Grand Suite
Ownerʼs Suite 7002
(42 sq.m/457 sq.ft + 18 sq.m/193 sq.ft veranda) The bathroom boasts a separate shower and a dressing area.
(30 sq.m/332 sq.ft + 18 sq.m/197 sq.ft veranda) Two suites available: the Paul Gauguin Suite (801) and the Flora Tristan Suite (802).
(49 sq.m/531 sq.ft + 7 sq.m/75 sq.ft veranda) The bathroom boasts a bathtub and a dressing area.
WC
TV
Veranda
Veranda
Bathtub Dining Room TV
Daybed
Veranda
Daybed
TV
Desk
Dressing Room
Daybed
WC Shower
Dressing Room Dressing Room
WC
Bathtub
Bathtub
Veranda Stateroom
Veranda Suite
(23 sq.m/247 sq.ft + 5 sq.m/56 sq.ft veranda) Stateroom 7003 has a shower cubicle.
(28 sq.m/300 sq.ft + 5 sq.m/58 sq.ft veranda) Veranda
Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom
Balcony
Veranda
(20 sq.m/215 sq.ft + 3 sq.m/37 sq.ft balcony) Staterooms 763, 764, 765, 766 and 767 vary in size and feature shower stall with no tub.
Daybed Daybed
TV
TV TV
Daybed
Dressing Room
WC
WC
Dressing Room
Dressing Room
Bathtub
Bathtub
WC Bathtub
Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom
Balcony
Daybed
TV
Daybed
(20 sq.m/215 sq.ft + 3 sq.m/37 sq.ft balcony)
Dressing Room Dressing Room
Bathtub
Daybed
TV
TV
Dressing Room
WC
WC
Bathtub
Bathtub
Window Stateroom Porthole Stateroom (19 sq.m/200 sq.ft)
Scan here for immediate embarkation on board the m/s Paul Gauguin.
121
Formalities FOR ALL VOYAGES The information below is current but subject to change at any time without advance notice from government authorities. Please consult your respective government agencies for visa and health information. Passport valid for at least 6 months after the end of your trip. Passport must contain at least two completely clear, blank, unused visa pages for each visa required, not including any amendment pages. Visa pages with stains or ink from other pages in the passport are not usable. Guests who deviate from the scheduled embarkation or disembarkation port should research the foreign entry requirements for the port country. Due to government regulations, regrettably, PONANT EXPLORATIONS will have to deny boarding to any guest who fails to obtain the appropriate travel documentation for their trip.
A copy of the visas or travel authorisations requested to the relevant authorities, or of the vaccination certificates for all destinations where they are compulsory, must be sent to PONANT EXPLORATIONS at the very latest 45 days prior to your voyage date. We also ask you to keep a copy of these documents with your passport throughout the duration of your trip. Travel with peace of mind: PONANT EXPLORATIONS proposes to handle certain procedures for you at a preferential rate. This support will be provided to you a few months before your departure. Please contact us for further information.
SPECIFIC FORMALITIES THE ANTARCTIC
LE BORÉAL: Ushuaia • Ushuaia: 28/11/2027, 28/12/2027, 07/01/2028, 28/01/2028, 24/02/2028 (1) (25) LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT: Ushuaia • Ushuaia: 27/10/2027, 08/11/2027, 20/11/2027, 02/12/2027, 16/12/2027, 28/12/2027 (1) (2) / Ushuaia • Hobart: 11/01/2028 (1) (2) / Hobart • Ushuaia: 11/02/2028 (1) (2) LE LYRIAL: Ushuaia • Ushuaia: 17/12/2027, 03/01/2028, 13/01/2028, 02/02/2028, 12/02/2028, 22/02/2028 (1) (3) / Ushuaia • Buenos Aires: 03/03/2028 (1) (26)
THE CARRIBEAN, CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA
L'AUSTRAL: Valparaíso • Ushuaia: 28/10/2027 (1) LE BELLOT: Fort-de-France • Colón: 19/11/2027 (4) / Colón • Puntarenas: 28/11/2027, 25/12/2027 (9) / Puntarenas • Colón: 15/12/2027, 01/04/2028 (4) (5) / Puntarenas • Puntarenas: 08/12/2027, 04/01/2028, 11/01/2028 (4) (9) / Colón • Fort-de-France: 11/04/2028 (4) / Cabo San Lucas • Cabo San Lucas: 25/01/2028, 04/02/2028, 24/02/2028, 05/03/2028, 15/03/2028 (6) LE BORÉAL: Buenos Aires • Rio de Janeiro: 18/03/2028 (4) LE BOUGAINVILLE: Fort-de-France • Colón: 20/11/2027 (4) / Colón • Puntarenas: 02/12/2027, 29/12/2027 (4) (5) / Puntarenas • Puntarenas: 12/12/2027 (4) (9) / Puntarenas • Colón: 19/12/2027, 05/01/2028, 23/02/2028 (4) (5) / Colón • Fortde-France: 04/03/2028 (4) LE CHAMPLAIN: Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France: 01/12/2027, 08/12/2027, 15/12/2027, 22/12/2027, 29/12/2027 (4) / Fort-de-France • La Romana: 05/01/2028 (4) (7) / La Romana • Nassau: 12/01/2028, 26/01/2028 (6) (7) / Nassau • La Romana: 19/01/2028, 02/02/2028 (6) / La Romana • Fort-deFrance: 09/02/2028 (4) (7) / Fort-de-France • Fort-de-France or Vieux Fort: 16/02/2028 (4) / Fort-de-France or Vieux Fort • Vieux Fort: 01/03/2028, 08/03/2028, 15/03/2028 (4) LE LYRIAL: Valparaíso • Ushuaia: 03/11/2027 (1) LE PONANT: Pointe-à-Pitre • Pointe-à-Pitre: 27/12/2027, 17/01/2028, 14/02/2028, 13/03/2028 (4)
EUROPE AND ATLANTIC ISLANDS
LE CHAMPLAIN: Las Palmas • Las Palmas: 01/11/2027, 11/11/2027 (1) (4) LE DUMONT D'URVILLE: Dakar • Las Palmas: 24/03/2028 (4) LE LAPÉROUSE: Brest • Tromsø: 21/02/2028 (8) LE PONANT: Mindelo • Mindelo: 26/10/2027, 02/11/2027, 09/11/2027, 16/11/2027 (4) (10)
ASIA, INDIAN OCEAN AND OCEANIA
LE DUMONT D'URVILLE: Walvis Bay • Richards Bay: 16/12/2027 (11) / Richards Bay • Nosy Be: 27/12/2027 (4) (12) / Mahé • Mahé: 17/01/2028, 25/01/2028, 02/02/2028 (4) / Nosy Be • Durban: 20/02/2028 (12) (13) LE JACQUES CARTIER: Darwin • Lautoka: 04/09/2027 (1) (8) (14) (15) (16) (17) / Lautoka • Papeete: 20/09/2027 (6) / Papeete • Papeete: 17/10/2027, 31/10/2027, 14/11/2027, 28/11/2027, 12/12/2027, 26/12/2027 (6) / Papeete • Lautoka: 09/01/2028 (6) / Busan • Manila: 16/04/2028 (18) (19) m/s PAUL GAUGUIN: Papeete • Papeete: 06/10/2027, 16/10/2027, 23/10/2027, 30/10/2027, 06/11/2027, 17/11/2027, 27/11/2027, 04/12/2027, 11/12/2027, 18/12/2027, 29/12/2027, 08/01/2028, 19/01/2028, 05/02/2028, 12/02/2028, 26/02/2028, 04/03/2028, 11/03/2028, 22/03/2028, 01/04/2028, 08/04/2028, 15/04/2028, 26/04/2028 (6) LE SOLÉAL: Darwin • Manila: 28/08/2027 (18) (20) (22) / Manila • Keelung: 11/09/2027 (18) / Keelung • Osaka: 20/09/2027 (24) / Osaka • Busan: 29/09/2027, 09/03/2028, 12/05/2028 (19) / Busan • Osaka: 07/10/2027, 17/03/2028, 04/05/2028 (19) / Busan • Manila: 23/10/2027, 20/05/2028 (18) (19) / Manila • Singapore: 05/11/2027 (18) (23) / Singapore • Phuket: 11/12/2027 (21) (23) / Phuket • Singapore: 19/12/2027 (21) (23) / Singapore • Hong Kong: 27/12/2027 (23) / Hong Kong • Singapore: 09/01/2028 (23) / Singapore • Manila: 22/01/2028 (18) (23) / Manila • Manila: 03/02/2028, 11/02/2028, 19/02/2028 (18) / Manila • Osaka: 27/02/2028 (18) / Manila • Darwin: 01/06/2028 (18) (20) (22) (1) ID card valid for at least 3 months beyond the completion of your trip. (2) Please note that for polar plunge, an EKG (electrocardiogram) by your general practitioner will be required. Also, for persons under 18 wishing to take part in this activity as well as kayaking, a sworn statement from the parents or legal guardians that they are able to swim will be asked. A parent or legal guardian must be present at the time of the activity. (3) Kayak activity on Sisterships/polar environment: for persons under 18,
122
we will require a sworn statement from the parents or legal guardians that they are able to swim. A parent or legal guardian must be present at the time of the activity. (4) Travellers arriving from or transiting through countries where there is no risk of yellow fever: vaccination is recommended as a health precaution. For travellers arriving from, transiting through or travelling to countries where yellow fever is endemic (Senegal, Panama, Namibia, South Africa, etc.), the vaccination is mandatory. As health requirements may change, the list of affected countries is subject to change without prior notice. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional well in advance of your departure for any medical advice related to your trip in these regions. The original vaccination certificate (yellow card), or a certified copy, is compulsory and may be requested by local authorities. (5) Panama: guests are advised to complete a customs declaration form on the following website: https://declaraciondeviajero.ana.gob.pa/. Both paper and digital forms are valid and can be completed at any time before crossing the Panamanian border. Guests who complete the digital form must show the QR code to the border personnel. (6) Bahamas and United States: should your flight transit via the USA (which is the case from and to the Bahamas), a visa or ESTA may be required. Please contact the USA consulate website for details. Travel with peace of mind: If you are eligible for an ESTA, PONANT EXPLORATIONS proposes to handle this process for you at a preferential rate, a few months before your departure. If you have travelled or lived in countries such as Cuba (on or after 12 January 2021), Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, Libya, Syria or North Korea, the US Department of Homeland Security can deny your ESTA. In this event, you must apply to an embassy for a category B1/B2 visa to travel to the United States. The visa processing time is several months. Since 9 June, 2025, access to the United States has been denied to foreign nationals originating from the following 12 countries: Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. Entry into the United States for nationals of the following countries is subject to partial restrictions and limitations: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela. (7) Dominican Republic: for any entry into or departure from the country by air, guests must complete an immigration form via the website https://eticket. migracion.gob.do/. (8) French ID card valid. (9) When leaving Costa Rica from the International airport, an exit tax of US$ 27 p/p must be paid (either by credit card, US$ or Colones). (10) Cape Verde: citizens of the European Union and United Kingdom must complete a free of charge pre-registration form by following the instructions detailed on www.ease.gov.cv, at least 7 days prior to their voyage. On the same platform you will have to pay the new airport security tax (3,400 Cape Verde Escudos: approximately €31). Guests of other nationalities must proceed with the same formalities, however the pre-registration is not free of charge. (11) Namibia: a visa may be required depending on your nationality. We recommend contacting the relevant authorities to confirm entry requirements before departure. A visa can be issued upon arrival (“visa on arrival”) at the following entry points: Windhoek and Walvis Bay airports, and the border posts of Impalila Island, Katima Mulilo, Mohembo, Ngoma, Noordoewer, Oranjemund, Oshikango and Trans-Kalahari. The visa can also be obtained online via the official Namibian government website.Please pay attention to the date of your application and avoid submitting it too early: once issued, the e-VISA is valid for 30 days. (12) To enter Madagascar, visa formalities can be completed upon arrival at the airport. The visa is free for stays of less than 15 days, but travellers will have to pay an administrative fee of €10 for border control formalities. However, the visa is subject to a fee for stays of between 15 and 60 days. Immunisation against diphtheria-tetanus-polio is essential. Anti-malaria treatment is highly recommended. It is recommended that you contact your health professional for any specific medical advice relating to travel through these regions. (13) Seychelles: an electronic travel authorisation is required by the authorities for all guests disembarking permanently from the vessel or on arrival by air in the Seychelles. It must be obtained within the 30 days prior to departure on the website https://seychelles.govtas.com. (14) Fiji: sea arrival: depending on your nationality, a visa might be required, it will be done onboard, free of charge. (15) Papua New Guinea: visa delivered onboard free of charge. (16) Solomon Islands: visa delivered onboard free of charge.
(17) Vanuatu: no visa required. (18) Philippines: all travellers must register on the website https://etravel.gov. ph/ within 72 hours prior to their arrival. (19) South Korea: depending on your nationality, you might be required to obtain the Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation, please check on : https:// www.k-eta.go.kr/portal/newapply/index.do?locale=EN. All guests exempted from the K-ETA must fill in the Arrival Card 72 hours prior your arrival in Korea, you can do it online, on the website https://www.e-arrivalcard.go.kr/portal/ main/index.do, or upon arrival at the airport, on a paper form. (20) Australia: a visa is required for entry into the country. We invite you to submit your application online prior to departure on the following website: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder/visit. (21) Thailand: all guests must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card within 3 days before their arrival on : https://tdac.immigration.go.th. (22) Indonesia: for entry by sea, a visa will be issued and charged onboard (€35, rate subject to change). This visa is valid for 30 days and allows single entry into Indonesia. If your itinerary includes multiple entries into Indonesia, particularly after travelling to another country, it is strongly recommended to choose a multiple-entry visa. Otherwise, a single-entry visa can be obtained upon each arrival in Indonesia, with fees payable each time. The application for a multiple-entry visa must be completed before departure, online: https://
evisa.imigrasi.go.id. Due to the MPOX outbreak (classified by the WHO as a public health emergency of international concern): all international airports in Indonesia have implemented the digital platform “All Indonesia.” This platform includes both the MPOX form and the customs declaration. All guests arriving in Indonesia will be required to complete this form online via http://allindonesia.imigrasi.go.id between 72 and 48 hours before their arrival. Once completed, a barcode will be generated, which must be presented to the immigration officer upon arrival. (23) Singapore: all guests must complete the arrival card within 72 hours prior to their arrival in Singapore on the following website: https://eservices.ica.gov. sg/sgarrivalcard/. (24) Taïwan: all guests must complete the arrival card within 72 hours prior to departure via the following website: https://twac.immigration.gov.tw/. This process can also be completed upon arrival at the airport; however, it is recommended to do it online in order to facilitate entry and avoid any delays during immigration control. (25) Argentina: visas are not required for U.S. citizens for stays up to 90 days. (26) Argentina: visas are not required for U.S. citizens for stays up to 90 days. To travel to Antarctica, it is mandatory to be covered with a medical insurance covering hospitalisation, isolation, or sanitary transfer for the duration of travel.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION To guarantee your entry into one or several countries, you must ensure that you comply with the formalities and health requirements specific to each destination. In just a few clicks on our online search engine, find all the formalities you must complete prior to your departure (visas, entry authorisations for each country, vaccinations, etc.): https://au.ponant.com/formalities. The international situation can change rapidly, so be sure to check this information regularly prior to your departure. However, please note that we always recommend our guests contact the relevant national immigration and customs and border control authorities directly to find out what rules apply to their specific situation. PONANT EXPLORATIONS is not responsible for any decisions made by guests based on the information provided by the online search engine. Visas: before departure, you are advised to check that your visa’s validity period matches the duration and dates of the stay requested, or you may encounter some unpleasant consequences if there is any non-compliance with the authorised duration of stay. Conditions for entering Polynesia: to see the latest entry and stay conditions
for Tahiti and its surrounding islands regarding Covid, please check the Tahiti Tourism website: https://www.tahititourisme.uk/covid-19/. We invite you to read our boarding conditions and passenger travel abilities: https://l.ponant.com/ErQG. Any new reservation implies the acceptance of these conditions. List of items prohibited on board: find the full list here: https://l.ponant.com/ CGV_EN. Should you have one of these products or objects in your possession, they will be confiscated immediately and will not be transported on the ship. When an item transported aboard is considered illegal, the relevant authorities will be notified systematically. Health: if you are undergoing medical treatment, do not forget your prescription. You are advised to contact a healthcare professional well in advance of your departure for any medical advice about your trip.
POLAR EXPEDITION VOYAGE Complimentary polar parka: for all voyages marked with the logo ‘Parka Gift’, a PONANT EXPLORATIONS polar water-resistant parka is offered (adult sizes only; in case of consecutive voyages, only one parka per person). Complimentary boots hire: boot rental will be offered onboard (for adults only) on expedition voyages where the logo ‘Boots on loan’ appears. Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, position of ice, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the
touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. Their decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities. Travelling to polar/isolated regions is an exhilarating experience in remote areas: please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT EXPLORATIONS offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
FOR VOYAGES OFFERING SCUBA DIVING Guests may take part in scuba diving activities, providing certain conditions are respected, in line with the applicable health, scientific and medical conditions in force on the day of the dive. Guests who wish to scuba dive are required to provide the onboard diving monitor with a valid medical certificate authorising them to scuba dive, as well as their certification card and their up-to-date dive log. Within the context of the health measures relating to Covid-19, you will also be required to complete a health declaration. You will be given this form when you pre-book your dive. For Timeless and Discovery voyages, the minimum level required for scuba diving is 1 star CMAS or the PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less
than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the voyage to our main diving instructor. For Expedition voyages, the minimum level required for scuba diving is 2 star CMAS or the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the voyage to our main diving instructor. For health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel. As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
Discover the general and particular conditions of sale by scanning this QR code. 123
Cruise Traveller Ph: 1800 507 777 sales@cruisetraveller.com.au www.cruisetraveller.com.au
RELEASE DATE: SEPTEMBER 2026
PEFC Certified
PEFC/21-31-119
Paper from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources
pefcaustralia.org.au
Lower Ground Floor, 165 Walker Street, North Sydney NSW 2060, Australia au.ponant.com ABN 35 166 676 517
(1) Price per person based on double occupancy, corresponding to the best rates available at the time of publication, September 2026; it may vary closer to the departure date, depending on availability on the voyage, and may be changed without notice. (2) Excursions included, mentioned as examples, to be prebooked between four and six months before departure on all itineraries, but as soon as sales open for Mediterranean departures, subject to availability and a minimum number of participants, and processed in order of receipt. (3) Flights selected by PONANT EXPLORATIONS in economy class. Fares may vary depending on availability and real-time prices charged by the airlines. (4) Terrestrial programs are subject to a minimum number of participants: if this is not reached, an alternative will be offered. Itineraries, landings, wildlife observation, activities and highlights cannot be guaranteed and are subject to weather and ice conditions and sailing opportunities. The photos used in this brochure are representative of potential experiences and are not guaranteed. Photos compliant with operational regulations and taken during a safety flight. Non-contractual documents and photos. More information in the ‘General terms and Conditions of Sale’ section on au.ponant.com. Photo credits: ©STUDIO PONANT: Oliver Blaud - Ophélie Bleunven - Sarah Congui - Margaux Coupez - Guillaume Duez - Laurence Fischer - Thibault Garnier - Alexandre Herbrecht - Clément Louineau - Nathalie Michel - Morgane Monneret - Laure Patricot - Jules Roques - Soizic Roux. ©PONANT: Hannes Becker - Matthieu Debano - Christophe Dugied - Julien Fabro - Sue Flood - Benjamin Hardman - Juliette Leclercq - François Lefebvre - Nicolas Mathéus - Danny McGee - Tim McKenna - JC Pieri - Christopher Poplawski - Sarah Rogers - Margot Sib - Alex Stead - Violette Vauchelle - Philippe Vaurès Santamaria. ©Istock: Alexeys Leonid Andronov - Brozova - Cinoby - Elena-studio - Jakob Fischer - Fabian Gysel - Oleksandra Iablochnikova - Ifish - DavorLovincic - Michael Lutz - Mendbil - Mirecca - Myyylla - Nikada - Orava - Ivan Pantic - Patrick Petitjean - Sundari Ji - Igor Tichonow - Valio84sl - Wirestock - Chunyip Wong. ©AdobeStock: 279 photo - Bisual Studio - Chris -Danita Delimont.com - Elieser - Diego Grandi - Handmade Pictures - Sean Hsu - IanAnn - Longtaildog - Majonit - Millers Image Limited - Munduuk - Juan Carlos Muñoz Robredo - Matt Ragen - RiCi - Se.eS - Yutaka. ©AndreAnita. ©AquaExpeditions. ©Jason Beard. ©BOBY. ©Adam Bruzzone. ©Getty: Ducoin David. ©Béatrice Duquenne. ©Tim Faircloth. ©Petra Glardon. ©Holger Leue. ©Tahiarii Yoram Pariente. ©Caroline Tongourian. ©Sylviane de Tracy. ©Bruce Vincentiis. ©Jon Whittle Photography. All rights reserved. Brochure design and graphic production: C&O Le Cabinet de Communication, June 2026.
INFORMATION & RESERVATIONS