Overview
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, discover vestiges of the Viking era from Aalborg; visit Sofiero Palace, a former Swedish royal family country mansion, from Helsinborg; or walk in the countryside through the villages of Bornholm from Gudhjem. read more The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
From Fredrikstad, Northern Europe's best preserved fortified town, you will sail towards the southern part of Denmark, along the shores of the Limfjorden strait, to reach the city of Aalborg. Founded by the Vikings, it is home among other things to the archaeological remains of a circular fortress built during the same period.
You will then head for Swedish shores. Founded over nine centuries ago, Helsingborg is one of the oldest Nordic cities. Dynamic and lively, it shelters the remains of a rich historic past, like its castle, built in the 15th century, of which only the dungeon of its central tower, the Kärnan, remains.
Further east, find out about the history of Karlskrona. This city, whose history is intrinsically linked to the Swedish Navy, boasts exceptional UNESCO-listed architecture that is characteristic of late-17th-century European naval cities.
After a unique and brand-new port of call in the medieval city of Kalmar, where the union between the kingdoms of Norway, Sweden and Denmark was proclaimed in 1397, you will then head towards Stockholm.Built on water, the Swedish capital embraces nature, which is omnipresent there. Its blend of medieval architecture, colourful houses and trendy neighbourhoods makes it a particularly enjoyable city to visit.
Le Lapérouse will then sail to the Swedish island of Gotland and call at Visby, a site that was important for the Hanseatic League in the Baltic Sea around the 13th century. UNESCO Heritage Site, this once opulent city still has remarkably well-preserved ramparts, public buildings, merchant houses and warehouses.
Then your ship will chart a course towards the charming town of Gudhjem, on the small Danish island of Bornholm, which is greatly appreciated by the Danish for its variety of landscapes ranging from granite to great sandy beaches.
Your ship will finally reach Copenhagen, where you can explore its canals and historic districts.
Ponant Explorers
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Itinerary
Located at the head of the gorgeous Oslofjord, Norway's capital is encircled by wooded hills and snow capped peaks. Explore the striking Oslo Opera House, where you can walk on the rooftop for harbor views. The Viking Ship Museum showcases remarkably preserved ships from the Viking era, while Vigeland Park features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Visit the Akershus Fortress for a glimpse into medieval history, or stroll along the waterfront Aker Brygge, filled with restaurants and shops.
Fredrikstad, founded in 1567 by King Frederick II, boasts one of Northern Europe’s best-preserved fortress towns, Gamlebyen (Old Town). Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, galleries, and cafés, all within the ancient city walls. Discover the Fredrikstad Museum, which delves into the city's rich history or take a scenic ferry ride across the Glomma River.
Located at the head of the gorgeous Oslofjord, Norway's capital is encircled by wooded hills and snow capped peaks. Explore the striking Oslo Opera House, where you can walk on the rooftop for harbor views. The Viking Ship Museum showcases remarkably preserved ships from the Viking era, while Vigeland Park features over 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Visit the Akershus Fortress for a glimpse into medieval history, or stroll along the waterfront Aker Brygge, filled with restaurants and shops.
Fredrikstad, founded in 1567 by King Frederick II, boasts one of Northern Europe’s best-preserved fortress towns, Gamlebyen (Old Town). Stroll through cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, galleries, and cafés, all within the ancient city walls. Discover the Fredrikstad Museum, which delves into the city's rich history or take a scenic ferry ride across the Glomma River.
Step off the ship at Aalborg’s Royal Cruise Berth and into the heart of the city, with the main square just 200m (656ft) away from where you’ll dock.
Explore Aalborg Castle, a medieval gem turned museum, wander through the Old Town and the picturesque Hjelmerstald neighbourhood, or discover Viking history at the burial site of Lindholm Hoje.
Architectural hotspots like Musikkens Hus and the Utzon Center create a modern contrast within the city and Aalborg's culinary scene invites visitors to indulge in some traditional smorrebrod at local eateries. Check out the vibrant cultural centre of Nordkraft, housing exhibitions, theatres and food vendors, all built into a 1940s power station.
Helsingborg, situated at the narrowest part of the Øresund strait in Sweden, is a historic city that blends ancient and modern influences seamlessly. It is known for its striking medieval architecture, including the Kärnan tower, a remnant of a larger fortress that once guarded the city, offering panoramic views of the strait and nearby Denmark.
The city's vibrant urban life is complemented by lush parks and gardens, such as Sofiero Castle and Gardens, which hosts an internationally acclaimed rhododendron collection. Helsingborg’s cultural scene is bustling with theatres, galleries, and concert halls, making it a dynamic hub for arts and entertainment. The ferry route connecting Helsingborg to Helsingør, Denmark, is one of the busiest in Europe, adding to the city's lively atmosphere.
Karlskrona is an enchanting city with its storybook cottages, immense town square, and hundreds of small islands awaiting discovery amid the sparkling sea. It is known as Sweden's only baroque city and is host to Sweden's sole remaining naval base. Small ships will dock at the Port of Karlskrona, while large ships will anchor offshore.
Top Things to Do in Karlskrona:
- visit the Naval Museum
- cruise through the Karlskrona’s archipelago
- tour Karlskrona’s Old Naval Shipyard
- view the city from atop Brewer Hill
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.
Stockholm, Sweden's charming capital, spans 14 islands connected by picturesque bridges. Begin your exploration in Gamla Stan, the city's historic old town, where cobblestone streets lead to the majestic Royal Palace and the medieval Storkyrkan Cathedral.
For a dose of modern culture, visit the ABBA Museum on Djurgården Island, celebrating Sweden's iconic pop group. Nearby, the Vasa Museum showcases a remarkably preserved 17th-century warship. Stroll along the waterfront promenade of Strandvägen for stunning views and vibrant cafes. Don't miss the Stockholm City Hall, renowned for its striking architecture and the annual Nobel Prize banquet. Enjoy Swedish cuisine at a local bistro, featuring dishes like meatballs and herring.
A small town on the island of Gotland, Visby was a popular trading spot during the Viking Age. Today, this pretty medieval city is Sweden's sunniest vacation destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ships will dock at the Visby Cruise Quay.
Top Things to Do in Visby:
- visit the Gotlands Museum
- walk along the medieval Visby Ring Wall
- take in the view from Gallows Hill
- stroll through the Botanic Gardens
- pass through Dalmansporten's gate to explore the medieval city
Bornholm boasts a wealth of scenic beauty ranging from bucolic farms to one of Denmark's largest forests. The island also features sandy beaches, quaint fishing ports and a rugged coast crowned by the ruins of the largest medieval fortress in Northern Europe. Ships will dock at the Port of Ronne.
Top Things to Do on Bornholm:
- explore the medieval Hammershus fortress
- sample the local beer in Svaneke
- tour the Baltic Sea Glass studios
- cycle in and around the city of Ronne
- visit the islands famed round churches
Copenhagen captivates with its blend of royal history and modern Scandinavian cool. Visit the 17th-century Rosenborg Castle, home to Denmark’s crown jewels, or stroll through the picturesque Nyhavn harbor with its colorful townhouses and lively cafés.
The iconic Little Mermaid statue sits serenely by the waterfront, while Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, offers charming rides and lush gardens in the heart of the city. Your ship will dock at the Port of Copenhagen, which is a 30 minute drive to Copenhagen Airport and a 15 minute drive into the city centre.
Life On Board
Named after the French explorer, Le Lapérouse offers luxury expeditions to the corners of the earth. Read more
Enjoy 24 hour room service and luxury amenities in your ocean facing accommodation. Read more
Watch the ocean pass by from the infinity pool and bask in warmth of the solarium. Read more
Have a multi-sensory experience as you sip a cocktail in the chic underwater lounge. Read more
A sundeck on sea days or a water sports platform, the innovative marina adds more to life onboard. Read more
Dine inside or out in the main restaurant where French gastronomy and service will impress. Read more
Ship Reviews (2)
Food was of the highest standard an the open bar well read more stocked to meet all tastes. Don't worry too much about formal gear, a sports coat and a colourful dress are all that is required on the two gala nights. On the other nights, slacks and polo are fine.
We helicoptered to Mitchell Falls which again was expensive but well worth it. Forget about the Horizontal Falls boat ride. Those that went were very dissatisfied as the most exciting of the two Falls is now closed due to a boating accident. I've seen more challenging wave sets in Moreton Bay. Overall 11/10 from us and very highly recommended
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Ponant Winter Inspiring Voyages (2025-26)
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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