Overview
Enter the world of Melanesia, an exclusive constellation of islands in the South Pacific where raw beauty meets timeless refinement. From the ochre landscapes of Arnhem Land to the remote Melanesian archipelagos, this journey unfolds across destinations where nature and culture exist in rare balance. In Arnhem, the spiritual heritage of the Yolngu people imbues the land read more with profound meaning, while on Thursday Island the seafaring traditions of the Torres Strait echo a long‑standing relationship with the ocean.
Further north, Papua New Guinea reveals the discreet charm of Kwato Island, offering an intimate encounter with a community shaped by faith, education, and island elegance. In the Solomon Islands, crystalline lagoons and pristine coral reefs create an exceptional setting for serene exploration, far from the crowds. From Santa Ana to Lata, life flows to the rhythm of carefully preserved traditions, before Vanuatu unveils its most spectacular expression: ancestral stories, water‑borne melodies, and ceremonial dances all reflect an enduring, deeply personal bond between people and their environment.
17 Days
Darwin
Lautoka
Ponant Explorers
184
118
2022
AUDRWFJLTK16.3
Itinerary
Australia's only tropical capital city, Darwin is rich in culture and ethnically diverse. While the Northern Territory boasts some of the most incredible wildlife on the planet, the city's museums celebrate the city's past and the galleries showcase the region's rich indigenous art. Ships will dock at Fort Hill Wharf.
Top Things to Do in Darwin:
- cruise the Darwin Harbour
- explore Litchfield or Kakadu National Park
- visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
- take a Jumping Crocodile Cruise
- visit the Darwin Botanic Gardens
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Discover Elcho Island off the coast of Arnhem Land, in the north-east of Australia’s Northern Territory. This narrow strip of land with age-old history will enchant you with its landscapes of almost surreal beauty and its fascinating cultural heritage. In a decor consisting of long sandy beaches, deep red cliffs and splendid acacia forests, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the Yolngu, an Aboriginal people who are renowned, among other things, for their sumptuous paintings on bark.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Discover the distinct Torres Strait culture of this remote island and its people, who follow a traditional lifestyle. Enjoy the spectacular scenery and expansive views over the Torres Strait. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the port.
Top Things to Do in Thursday Island:
- fly over Thursday Island in a helicopter
- take the ferry to Horn Island
- visit the Kazu Pearl Farm on Friday Island
- visit the Green Hill Fort
- enjoy fresh seafood in delightful waterfront settings.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
In Milne Bay Province, near historic Samarai, Kwato enchants with rainforest hills, mangrove shores, and turquoise seas. A formal cultural welcome leads to a gentle walk to the historic stone church, where stories of the Kwato Mission and Charles Abel reveal a place shaped by faith, education, and enduring tradition.
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Njari Island, part of the Solomon Islands, is a small tropical paradise renowned for its vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs. The island is a favourite destination for snorkellers and divers, offering clear waters teeming with colourful fish, turtles, and occasional reef sharks.
The island's white sandy beaches provide a perfect spot for relaxation and sunbathing, while the surrounding waters are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Njari Island’s unspoilt natural beauty and tranquil environment make it an idyllic escape for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the Pacific.
Part of the Florida Islands, Roderick bay is surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches and fringing coral reefs. These clear warm tropical waters give rise to a myriad of colourful corals only metres from the shore. To add to this stunning environment, nosed up onto a nearby beach, listing heavily to its starboard side is the wreck of the World Discoverer; an expedition cruise ship beached here in 2001 after striking a charted rock at the Northern entrance to Sandfly Passage. Venture ashore for a welcome ceremony, take a walk through the village or snorkel around the wreck to witness the marine environment attempting to reclaim this invader.
Santa Ana Island, located in the Solomon Islands, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. The island's traditional villages offer a deep dive into local Melanesian culture, featuring unique customs, dances, and intricate handicrafts. Visitors are welcomed warmly and can learn about the islanders' way of life and traditions.
The island’s lush landscapes and clear waters are perfect for hiking, swimming, and snorkelling. Vibrant coral reefs surrounding Santa Ana teem with marine life, providing a paradise for underwater enthusiasts. Santa Ana Island's blend of cultural richness and natural beauty makes it a captivating destination in the Pacific.
Nestling in the heart of the Solomon Islands archipelago, the Santa Cruz Islands offer a timeless interlude, with their turquoise lagoons and ancestral traditions. On the main island of Nendo, the charming village of Lata will captivate you with its peaceful atmosphere and its immaculate beaches, edged by sparkling coral reefs. On land, you will find a full expression of Melanesian authenticity as you are immersed in the local customs and set off to meet the inhabitants, who are proud to share their way of life — well off the beaten track.
Ureparapara, also known as Parapara for short, is the third largest island in the Banks group of Northern Vanuatu and formed by an extinct volcano cone that has been breached by the sea on its east coast, forming a spectacular 3km long harbour. During your voyage, your ship will sail into the natural harbour, affording guests spectacular views from the outer decks. You will also have the opportunity to go ashore for a welcome and custom dances. An opportunity to witness life in one of the remotest parts of Vanuatu. Very few vessels visit this part of Vanuatu and the local residents are eager to welcome visitors.
Formed by volcanoes, Espiritu Santo (also known as Luganville) is the second largest city in the island nation of Vanuatu and is home to beautiful beaches, towering mountains, natural blue holes and fascinating WWII history. Ships will dock at the Luganville port.
Top Things to Do in Santo:
- visit the South Pacific WWII Museum
- snorkel or dive to see the WWII military equipment at Million Dollar Point
- swim at the stunning Blue Hole
- take a glass-bottom boat tour over the coral reef
- explore the Millennium Cave
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing.
This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the Ponant photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Known as Sugar City, Lautoka is framed by the blue Pacific Ocean on the western side and green gold sugar cane and pine trees on the other sides. In the city you'll find wide-open streets lined with swaying palm trees and colonial-style houses. Ships will dock at the port.
Top Things to Do in Lautoka:
- snorkel at Savala or Bounty Island
- bathe in a natural geothermal mud pond
- visit a traditional village
- explore the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park
- visit the nearby town of Nadi
Life On Board
With the hallmarks of Ponant’s elegant decor and chic sophistication, Le Jacques Cartier showcases luxury innovations. Read more
Choose from a range of staterooms and suites, all of which face the ocean with private balconies. Read more
Enjoy indoor and outdoor dining in the main restaurant or casual dining at the grill. Read more
The underwater lounge where you can watch the marine world go by, is a real wow factor. Read more
The innovative marina at the stern of the ship offers easy embarkation and mulitple uses for guests. Read more
Enjoy ocean views from the stern of the ship as you dip in the glass walled infinity pool. Read more
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Ponant Exceptional Voyages of Discovery (2026-27)
Alongside iconic expeditions in Antarctica, the Caribbean, Asia and the Atlantic archipelagos, you’ll find pioneering voyages aboard Le Commandant Charcot as it returns to the Far North, including the icy St Lawrence. Enriched by partnerships with Relais & Châteaux and the Club des Chefs des Chefs, these sailings blend exploration with artistry, offering transformative moments both on shore and on board.
AUD Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
