Secret Treasures of Melanesia
Luxuriant scenery and historical shores await you, between authentic island atmosphere in Luganville and expanses of white sand at Champagne read more Beach on the island of Espiritu Santo. Not far away, Mystery Island enchants with its captivating lagoons and immaculate beaches. In Fiji, discover Suva, its capital, before heading to Lautoka, the end of your trip, famous for its sugar cane crops.
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 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.
Capital of Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay Province, Alotau is steeped in history, rich in culture and blessed with natural beauty.The gateway to some of the most remote island communities remaining in the world today, this is a place that is enriched with age-old culture and traditions. Ships will dock at the port.
Top Things to Do in Alotau:
- explore skull cave
- visit the memorial commemorating WWII’s Battle of Milne Bay
- take a traditional clay pot cooking class
- experience life in a traditional village
- snorkel the shipwreck at Waga Waga
Samarai, a small island in Papua New Guinea, is steeped in history and natural beauty. Once a bustling colonial trading port, the island now offers a peaceful retreat with its well-preserved colonial architecture and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can explore the remnants of its past, including the historic wharf and the old courthouse.
The island's lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling and diving, revealing vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Stroll through the village to meet friendly locals and experience traditional Papuan culture.
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.
Honiara is the capital city of and the gateway to The Solomon Islands. Whether you take to the beautiful waters or explore the land around you, World War II history and stunning natural beauty mean that any option is the right one. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to shore.
Top Things to Do in Honiara:
- check out the busy Central Market
- explore the US War Memorial
- visit the Japanese Peace Park Memorial
- visit a Melanesian cultural village
- snorkel or Dive WWI shipwrecks
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.
Formed by volcanoes, Luganville (known simply as 'Santo' by the locals) is the second largest city in 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 Luganville:
- 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
In Port Vila, Vanuatu's energetic capital, you'll be greeted by friendly Bislama-speaking locals and street-side markets. The city is perfectly located around a beautiful harbour and still holds a touch of French influence in the form of bistros and murals. Ships will dock at the port.
Top Things to Do in Port Vila:
- Sail to Dream cove for a snorkel adventure
- visit the Cascade Waterfalls
- take a buggy on an off-road adventure
- join a thrilling jet boat ride in Port Vila's bay waters
- zip-line through the jungle
A tiny, uninhabited island, Mystery Island is a remote paradise of white sand beaches, swaying palms and aquamarine waters. Since the surrounding sea is a protected marine sanctuary, visitors will be enchanted by views of colourful marine life and pristine coral reefs. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to shore.
Top Things to Do on Mystery Island:
- snorkel the pristine reef
- walk the entire shoreline (takes 40 minutes)
- visit nearby Aneityum Island and learn about their way of life
- relax on the white sand beach
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.
Fiji's capital city is a modern multicultural centre dotted with colonial-era buildings, and numerous parks and gardens tucked among the hilly peninsula. Cultural activities, delicious cuisine and abundant shopping offer something for everyone. Ships will dock at King's Wharf.
Top Things to Do in Suva:
- explore the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park
- visit the eco-friendly Pure Fiji beauty care factory
- take a longboat along the Navua River
- learn about the Fijian way of life at a local village
- relax at a beachfront resort
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 Paul Gauguin showcases luxury innovations. Read more
Gain an understanding of the ancient customs, traditions and cultures of the peoples of the South Pacific. Read more
Freshly refurbished in 2021, the majority of staterooms and suites have balconies or verandas. Read more
Spend your evenings dining in front of magnificent Polynesian sunsets. From casual to upscale dining experiences. Read more
Book a treatment, relax by the pool or at the Piano bar, or engage in something more cerebral. Read more
A wide choice of excursions are offered depending on your itinerary and stopovers. 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.
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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.
