Overview
Nuuk, with its colourful houses facing the ocean, is the first port of call on your expedition before crossing the Labrador Sea to reach the Canadian shores of Nunavut. When the weather is fine, the mountains are reflected in read more the crystal-clear waters of the gigantic fjord which will lead you up to the Grinnell Glacier. In Zodiac dinghies or on foot, you will criss-cross the territory that the Inuit share with polar bears, musk oxen, seals and whales. The ramparts formed by the limestone cliffs around Akpatok Island have made it inaccessible to humans, but perfect for the thick-billed murres that nest in its fissures.
A succession of landscapes will leave you with sentiment of tranquillity, inherent to the contemplation of these spaces, which exceed any known proportions. You will soon discover the province of Newfoundland and Labrador and its highest mountains, those encircling the splendid Nachvak Fjord. A little further on, the town of Rigolet – only accessible by the sea - will offer you, along its bay and its lake, a unique observation point to spot Minke whales and the region’s birds.
The last part of your cruise will open the doors to the island of Newfoundland and, while it seems very remote, it has a great many historic sites. These attest to the presence of the Vikings as far back as 1000 and will plunge you into the past of the first Europeans who arrived on the North American continent for the whaling trade
Your journey continues in the heart of the peaceful Saint Pierre and Miquelon archipelago. In these distant lands, the hilly horizon is dotted with ponds, the forest blends with the peat bogs, and the coastlines alternate between lagoons and sheer cliffs. During a hike, attempt to get a glimpse of the wildlife that is found here, including white-tailed deer. On the coastlines of Nova Scotia, Halifax – the provincial capital steeped in history –, surrounded by sumptuous nature, marks the end of your odyssey.
Cruise Itinerary
From 1941 to 1992, the town of Kangerlussuaq in Greenland was home to an American military base. Nowadays, thanks to its international airport, it has become a transit point for travellers seeking adventure in the Far North. Located to the north of the Arctic Circle, this town is the starting point of magnificent discoveries surrounded by unspoiled nature. Indeed, just a few dozen kilometres from there it is possible to get close to the Greenland ice sheet, the largest body of ice in the Northern Hemisphere.
From Kangerlussuaq, admire also the superb landscapes of tundra in autumnal colours, where Arctic hares, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, reindeer, falcons and eagles live.
During your cruise, we invite you to discover Sisimiut, founded in 1756 and the second largest town in Greenland. This small town is typical of Greenland, boasting bewitching panoramas: here and there, colourful stilt houses dot the undulating landscape, and the small fishing port stands as the gateway to an icy realm. As for the town centre, it is home to a number of historic buildings, a small church and a museum which retraces the history of the Inuit people, as well as many craft shops. When your ship drops anchor here, you will set out to meet the locals in a typically arctic atmosphere.
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.
Akpatok Island, located in Ungava Bay in northern Quebec, Canada, is a remote and rugged destination known for its towering limestone cliffs and significant wildlife populations. The island serves as a crucial habitat for thousands of thick-billed murres, which nest along the sheer cliff faces, creating a spectacular scene for birdwatchers. The surrounding waters are also frequented by seals and polar bears, adding to the area's rich biodiversity.
Access to the island is typically by Zodiac, allowing for an up-close exploration of the island’s coastline. Visiting Akpatok Island offers a unique opportunity to witness Arctic wildlife in its natural environment, making it a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventurous travellers alike.
Newfoundland, an island in Canada, is known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage. The vibrant city of St. John’s, one of North America’s oldest, features colourful row houses, the iconic Signal Hill, and the historic Cabot Tower, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Exploring beyond the city, visitors can discover Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic fjords, cliffs, and diverse wildlife. The island’s picturesque fishing villages, such as Twillingate, are perfect for whale watching and iceberg spotting. Newfoundland’s blend of natural beauty and unique culture makes it an unforgettable destination.
Cruise in the wake of Vikings in the north of Newfoundland. Nestled at the top of the Great Northern Peninsula lies L’Anse aux Meadows, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that represents the earliest evidence of European settlement in the New World.
Dating back to the 11th century, this historic site offers similar scenes to those found in Norse Greenland and Iceland. The ancient vestiges are a marvel of the past and the excavated remains of wood-framed peat-turf buildings hold stories of bygone times.
Newfoundland, an island in Canada, is known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage. The vibrant city of St. John’s, one of North America’s oldest, features colourful row houses, the iconic Signal Hill, and the historic Cabot Tower, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Exploring beyond the city, visitors can discover Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic fjords, cliffs, and diverse wildlife. The island’s picturesque fishing villages, such as Twillingate, are perfect for whale watching and iceberg spotting. Newfoundland’s blend of natural beauty and unique culture makes it an unforgettable destination.
Newfoundland, an island in Canada, is known for its stunning coastal scenery and rich cultural heritage. The vibrant city of St. John’s, one of North America’s oldest, features colourful row houses, the iconic Signal Hill, and the historic Cabot Tower, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Exploring beyond the city, visitors can discover Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic fjords, cliffs, and diverse wildlife. The island’s picturesque fishing villages, such as Twillingate, are perfect for whale watching and iceberg spotting. Newfoundland’s blend of natural beauty and unique culture makes it an unforgettable destination.
St. John's, the vibrant capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, is known for its colorful row houses and friendly streets. As the easternmost point in North America, this city offers breathtaking views from Signal Hill, where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal.
For those interested in maritime history, the Rooms museum provides insights into the rich cultural heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador through extensive exhibits and artifacts. Nearby, Cape Spear Lighthouse stands as the continent's oldest surviving lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic. Nature lovers can relish coastal walks that offer glimpses of icebergs, seabirds, and whales, depending on the season.
Saint Pierre and Miquelon, a small French archipelago near the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, exudes a unique blend of French charm and rugged North Atlantic beauty. This remote outpost of France offers a slice of Gallic culture, complete with quaint bistros, street-side cafés, and shops selling French goods. The islands’ colourful houses and the old-world feel of its capital, Saint-Pierre, transport visitors to a coastal town in Brittany or Normandy.
The natural surroundings are marked by stark, windswept landscapes, offering ideal conditions for hiking and bird watching. The rich waters around the islands are also popular for fishing and observing marine life, such as seals. Saint Pierre and Miquelon stand as a fascinating fusion of French culture and subarctic wilderness.
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.
Halifax is the capital city of Nova Scotia, a Canadian province that borders the Atlantic on the east coast of Canada. Travellers can spend the day exploring the city’s many museums and learning about its rich history. It’s also fun to spend time walking around the waterfront and busy downtown area to take in the sights and sounds that include ship traffic, open-air cafes, tree-lined streets, statues and memorials, and even a waterfront casino.
Sightseers may also want to book a tour that includes a coastal drive to Peggy's Cove, a small community just north of the city that has long been celebrated for its scenic views of the Atlantic.
Life Onboard L'Austral
Explore the world on L'Austral surrounded by French sophistication on this luxury mega yacht. Read more
Every stateroom and suite offers ocean views and most have a balcony. Read more
Savour the exquisite flavours of Ponant's French gastronomy in the onboard restaurants. Read more
Enjoy live music in the lounges or take in a performance or show in the theatre. Read more
Ponant's French crew offer guests refined service from the moment they board. Read more
Unwind with a massage or facial the Spa, where only the best French products are used. Read more
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Ponant Winter Inspiring Voyages (2025-26)
USD 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.
