A Tropical Odyssey in Central America

On this all-new 11-day expedition cruise aboard Le Dumont-d'Urville, you will sail the Caribbean Sea discovering the lush landscapes of Central America, exploring the region's historical cities to learn more about their history, sharing with the local populations and creating unforgettable memories. Culture and heritage are on the programme of your journey.

The city of Santo Tomás de Castilla will welcome you for a glimpse into incredible Maya history, with the possibility of discovering the pyramids and sanctuaries of the Quiriguá archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site....read more From one port of call to the next, you will also be able to seize the opportunity to share unforgettable moments with local communities. La Ceiba, a brand-new and exclusive Ponant port of call, is undoubtedly a highlight of your journey. Both you and your welcoming local hosts will discover how emotional first encounters may be, with traditional dancing derived from Honduran folklore and unique moments of sharing, both on land and on board.

A little further, in Panama, on the Bocas del Toro archipelago, famous for its rich underwater and terrestrial biodiversity, you will learn about a different history, that of the country's largest indigenous community, the Ngöbe-Buglé. Fans of swimming and snorkelling will certainly not be disappointed, given the magnificent fine sandy beaches surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea on Corn Island or the coconut forests and coral reefs of the splendid Water Caye.

The extraordinary diversity of the landscapes will surprise you throughout your journey. From Puerto Limon, you will access the Tortuguero National Park with its maze-like canals and rich biodiversity, as well as the Cahuita National Park, where you will be able to observe abundant wildlife. The region is also home to many mangroves, this unique ecosystem in which intertwined roots plunge into tropical waters, enabling you to contemplate a palette of greens. Zodiac outings on the Rio Dulce will let you discover this fascinating world, with insight provided by the experienced team of naturalist-guides.