Overview
You will enjoy the enchanting setting offered by the island of Dominica, known as the Nature Island. You will then sail to St. Kitts, a volcanic island with fine sandy beaches and a rich colonial heritage. You will then sail towards the island of Antigua. The naval dockyard dating back to Georgian times, sheltered in the hollow of a bay protected from this island with craggy coastlines, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Le Dumont-d'Urville will then set sail for the famous Saint-Barthelemy, renowned for its wild coves and its elegant little shopping streets. Located between the Lesser Antilles and the Greater Antilles, the British Virgin Islands are composed of some sixty islands, most of which are uninhabited.
Discover on Virigin Gorda, The Baths National Park and its huge blocks of granite, surrounded by caves and rock pools, before a stop in Jost Van Dyke for a relaxing swim. You will finish your journey in the Caribbean Sea on the island of the Dominican Republic. There will be a port of call in the charming bay of Santa Barbara de Samaná, which is edged by creole houses, from where you will be able to go and discover the caverns and mangrove of Los Haitises National Park. Then, you will be able to appreciate the charms of Santo Domingo, the oldest capital of the "New World", a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
13 Days
Fort-de-France
Santo Domingo
Ponant Explorers
184
118
2019
FDFSDQ12.3
Itinerary
Fort-de-France, located on Martinique is the largest city in the French West Indies and it has personality to match. Life here is vibrant and fast-paced, and the culture is as colourful as the brightly painted shops that line the city’s cobblestone streets. Ships will dock at the port.
Top Things to Do in Fort-de-France:
- visit the Botanical Gardens
- join a rainforest hike to Absalon
- visit the Rum Distillery
- explore a banana plantation
- see the ruins of Chateau Dubuc
- take a helicopter flight over Martinique
Iles Des Saintes or Les Saintes is formed by nine unspoiled islands, two of which are inhabited. Forest-coated island cones rise from the turquoise waters and crystalline tropical beaches line the shores of these heavenly Caribbean islands. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the island, Terre de Haut.
Top Things to Do on Iles Des Saintes:
- sail around the isles of Les Saintes
- explore the waters in a clear kayak
- hike to the summit of Mount Morel
- visit Fort Napoleon
With its mountainous terrain, vast tropical forest, hot springs, rivers and spectacular waterfalls, Dominica is undoubtedly the wildest island in the Caribbean. Set on sweeping Prince Rupert Bay, backed by steep hills and fronted by a long black-sand beach, Portsmouth is your gateway to this little-known land. Ships will dock at this port.
Top Things to Do in Portsmouth:
- enjoy a boat ride up the Indian River
- hike the Syndicate Nature Trail
- visit the Chocolate Factory in Pointe Baptiste
- explore Cabrits National Park
Antigua and Barbuda beckon with their pristine beaches and vibrant history. For beach enthusiasts, Antigua presents a different shore for each day of the year, like the tranquil Half Moon Bay. Adventure seekers can explore the mysterious caves at Two Foot Bay in Barbuda, offering a glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.
History buffs will find Nelson’s Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Antigua, a compelling visit, showcasing the island's rich naval history. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary in Barbuda, one of the world’s largest, to observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Culinary explorers can delight in the local cuisine, with seafood and Creole dishes highlighting the islands’ cultural melting pot.
Cherry red roofs, yacht-sprinkled bays and a sophisticated French flavour all add to the gorgeous Caribbean allure of Gustavia. St. Barthelemy's capital rolls around a horseshoe-shaped harbour, where gleaming yachts hover and fancy boutiques, bars and restaurants fizz with life. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.
Top Things to Do in Gustavia:
- go on a sunset cruise
- sail the coast of St. Barts
- explore the harbour in a semi-submersible
- drive the enchanting countryside
Virgin Gorda is part of the British Virgin Islands archipelago. A mountainous, beautiful island filled with friendly locals, tropical cuisine and wandering chickens. Blue waters hug the shore and granite megaliths at The Baths rise from the sea.
Top Things to Do on Virgin Gorda:
- explore The Baths National Park
- lounge in a hammock at Saba Rock
- hike to Gorda Peak for a panoramic view
- shop in Spanish Town
- visit Little Fort National Park
- sail around the lush island
Virgin Gorda is part of the British Virgin Islands archipelago. A mountainous, beautiful island filled with friendly locals, tropical cuisine and wandering chickens. Blue waters hug the shore and granite megaliths at The Baths rise from the sea.
Top Things to Do on Virgin Gorda:
- explore The Baths National Park
- lounge in a hammock at Saba Rock
- hike to Gorda Peak for a panoramic view
- shop in Spanish Town
- visit Little Fort National Park
- sail around the lush island
The British Virgin Island’s smallest island, Jost Van Dyke, runs deep with rugged scenery and colourful folklore. The island offers glowing turquoise waters, lazily bowing palm trees, and pristine white sand beaches. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.
Top Things to Do on Jost Van Dyke:
- snorkel Norman Island
- explore The Baths on Virgin Gorda Island
- cruise the waters of Jost Van Dyke and Tortola
- relax on the pristine White Bay 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.
Explore the captivating Catalina Island, a serene haven just 35km/22mi off the Southern California coast. Unwind amidst swaying palms, white-sand beaches, and enchanting sunsets.
The island is renowned for its vibrant marine life, including dolphins and seals. Visitors can explore by water with snorkelling, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, all available to rent at Descanso Beach.
Traverse the island's interior and explore the rugged terrain by golf cart, catching breathtaking views from the Skyline Drive. Enjoy a stroll along Crescent Avenue in the town of Avalon, which is lined with quaint shops and cafes.
The Avalon Pier facilitates easy tender access to and from the ship, ensuring a seamless transfer at this port of call.
The Dominican Republic’s capital city, Santo Domingo is also the most modern and dynamic metropolis in the Caribbean. The city epitomises the pulse of Dominican culture, where the old and the new converge seamlessly.
Located centrally is the Colonial City, a UNESCO site and the first European settlement of the Americas. Wander the maze of narrow streets brimming with 16th to early 20th century architectural wonders. They lead toward colonial buildings turned museums, shops, hotels, restaurants, and sidewalk cafés. Ships will dock at this port.
Life On Board
Voyage in complete luxury and dine on French gastronomy as you enjoy an expedition cruise on Le Dumont-D'Urville. Read more
Your ocean facing stateroom or suite offers chic decor, luxurious amenities and 24 hour room service. Read more
Watch the ocean pass by as you take a dip in the glass walled infinity pool. Read more
The sophistication and innovation of this underwater lounge will be a highlight of onboard life. Read more
Making embarking and disembarking easy, the marina also serves as a sun deck or watersports platform. Read more
Dine al fresco at the grill or enjoy buffet and table service in the main restaurant. Read more
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this cruise. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.
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.
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