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Odyssey in the Heart of Japan's Subtropical Islands

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 Cruise Length
13 Days
 Cruise Starts
Halong Bay
 Cruise Finishes
Naha
13 Day Odyssey in the Heart of Japan's Subtropical Islands Itinerary (Ponant)
Countries Explored: Vietnam, China, Japan
Cruise Line
Ponant
Ship
Ship Class
Ponant Explorers
Passengers
184
Crew
118
Launched
2022
Cruise Code
HLONAH12

Overview

Ponant is the first cruise company to take you to the heart of the sublime landscapes of the tropical islands in southern Japan during an expedition cruise. On this 13-day itinerary aboard Le Jacques-Cartier, from the island of Ha Long to Naha, you will discover the rich natural heritage, traditional villages and craft of the Okinawa, Yaeyama and Sakishima Islands, in the Ryukyu archipelago. You will set sail from Ha Long, renowned throughout the world for its UNESCO-listed bay, then head northward to reach the "Pearl of the Orient", Hong Kong. A former British colony, she's unlike any other city....read more Hiding behind the crowds and the neons are temples and markets, a strange mix of modernity and tradition. Then, you will set sail for the southern islands of Japan, including Ishigaki, the capital island of the Yaeyama Islands.

In the heart of the magnificent Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, you will be able to enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the eponymous city or discover Kabira Bay, renowned for its idyllic scenery, combining crystal-clear turquoise water and beaches of white sand. Following a port of call in the picturesque village of Taketomijima, with its traditional Okinawan dwellings and its idyllic sandy expanses, Le Jacques-Cartier will sail south to the island of Iriomotejima. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this little corner of paradise will enchant you with its authentic and preserved character, with its wild beaches lying alongside traditional villages surrounded by luxurious tropical forest: jungle, mangrove, rivers, waterfalls. This unique biodiversity is made up of many endemic species.

The landscapes on the remote island of Yonagunijima, the easternmost of the Ryukyu Islands, offer a striking contrast: cliffs, windswept meadows, wild horses. The beauty of its sea-beds and their mysterious rocky formations will delight the most experienced divers. After calling at the stunning Miyako Island, you will head for Kumejima, the island that linked Okinawa to China in the past. Famous for its 'Eisa', a form of folk dance performed to the rhythm of traditional drums, this multifaceted island will reveal itself through its natural treasures: the mythical Mifuga rock formation or the idyllic beach of Hatenohama, a point of reference for fans of the underwater world. You will also call at Iheya Island, Okinawa's northernmost territory, where the traditional culture of the region is preserved.

You will be able to discover a few aspects of this through a traditional "Eisa" show featuring traditional drums. Your final port of call will be Zamami, in the Kerama Islands. You will enjoy the unspoiled beauty of this pristine island, known the world over for the distinctive blue of the surrounding sea, called "Kerama blue". The sea life in the area is also exceptionally rich and sea turtles can often be spotted swimming among the coral. Your cruise will draw an end in Naha, your port of disembarkation, on the island of Okinawa.

Cruise Itinerary

 
Arrive
Depart

Day 1: Sailing In Ha Long Bay
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18:00
Day 2: Cruising At Sea
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--
Day 3: Hong Kong
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--
Day 4: Cruising At Sea
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--
Day 5: Cruising At Sea
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--
Day 6: Ishigaki
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--
Day 7: Taketomijima
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--
Day 7: Iriomotejima
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--
Day 8: Yonagunijima
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--
Day 9: Miyakojima
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--
Day 10: Kumejima
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--
Day 11: Iheyajima
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--
Day 12: Zamami
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--
Day 13: Naha, Okinawa
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--
Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Transfers to and/or from the ship port may be required.

Life Onboard Le Jacques Cartier

Le Jacques Cartier
Le Jacques Cartier

With the hallmarks of Ponant’s elegant decor and chic sophistication, Le Jacques Cartier showcases luxury innovations. Read more

Balcony Staterooms and Suites
Balcony Staterooms and Suites

Choose from a range of staterooms and suites, all of which face the ocean with private balconies. Read more

Relaxed Dining Settings
Relaxed Dining Settings

Enjoy indoor and outdoor dining in the main restaurant or casual dining at the grill. Read more

Inside the Blue Eye
Inside the Blue Eye

The underwater lounge where you can watch the marine world go by, is a real wow factor. Read more

The Adjustable Marina
The Adjustable Marina

The innovative marina at the stern of the ship offers easy embarkation and mulitple uses for guests. Read more

Infinity Pool Days
Infinity Pool Days

Enjoy ocean views from the stern of the ship as you dip in the glass walled infinity pool. Read more

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Brochure

Japan

Ponant Japan (2024)

Discover Ponant's range of exceptional voyages discovering the incredible landscapes and islands of Japan.

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time 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 Ponant. These 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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