Overview
Ponant Explorers
184
118
2018
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Itinerary
Home to the Panama Canal's Atlantic Ocean entryway, Colón was founded as a result of the California gold rush in 1850, the starting point of a railroad that carried prospectors across the Isthmus of Panama. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.
Top Things to Do in Colon:
- explore Portobelo National Park
- watch ships pass through the Panama Canal
- check out the old quarter of Panama city, Casco Viejo
- shop until you drop at the Duty-Free Zone
- ride a vintage train on the Panama Railway
Located on the north-east coast of Panama, the San Blas archipelago is a string of coral islands that graces the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Over 300 islands and cays covering an area of 300 square kilometres offer travellers a multitude of treasures.
Sheltered behind a long coral reef, the San Blas Islands are full of paradisiac anchorages. The long sandy white beaches bounded by crystal clear waters will allow you to relax and to enjoy an incredible marine fauna before discovering the Kunas Indian community. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the port.
Cartagena is a feast for the senses, with its consistently warm air, bright colours, history and nightlife. Filled with legends, romance and splendour, the walled city features Spanish colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and cultural sites. Ships will dock at this port.
Top Things to Do in Cartagena:
- join a walking tour through the city
- visit the Rosario Islands
- explore the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
- visit the chocolate or emerald museums
- wander the streets of Old Town and the Plaza Santo Domingo
Santa Marta is the oldest city in Colombia and abounds with Spanish colonial charm. From the mangroves of Ciénaga Grande to the beaches of Tayrona National Park, Santa Marta offers a multitude of thrilling adventures. Ships will dock at Puerto de Colombia.
Top Things to Do in Santa Marta:
- hike to the Quebrada Valencia waterfalls
- learn about the Tairona culture Taironaka Indian Reserve
- visit the museum dedicated to Simon Bolivar
- explore Tayrona National Park
- visit the Cathedral of Santa Marta
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.
Kralendijk, the capital of Bonaire, welcomes cruise ships at the North and South Piers. The town center is a mere 500 meters (0.3 miles) away, easily reachable on foot within 5-10 minutes. This proximity allows travelers to explore Kralendijk’s charming streets, colorful buildings, and local shops without hassle. A short trip of about 8 kilometers (5 miles) takes you to the stunning beaches of Lac Bay.
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.
Scattered between St Vincent and Grenada, the Tobago Cays comprises five little islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tabac and Jamesby. This rosary of uninhabited cays in the southern West Indies is a marine park whose turquoise lagoons provide a home and safe haven for some outstanding marine fauna, including peaceful green turtles. Girded and united by a coral reef, these secluded islands are a peaceful paradise for divers, swimmers and snorkellers.
Linked to St. Lucia by a sand causeway, Pigeon Island has been a designated National Park since 1979. On this wild and pristine land, you will be inspired to take pleasant walks amid the tropical vegetation and through a magnificent tree-filled garden.
You will also be irresistibly drawn to the two pretty little sandy beaches nestling on the southern side and bathed by crystal-clear waters. While snorkelling, be sure to explore the underwater world that is teeming with life, along the rocks lining this peninsula’s coast. This calm and beautiful island is the perfect place to relax.
Nestled in the crook of a breath-taking bay, the former capital of St. Lucia is brimming with attractions. The town is scattered with colonial-era edifices amid brightly painted wooden storefronts and a bustling seafront. The famous Pitons, volcanic spires, tower over the entrance to the town.
Top Things to Do in Soufrière:
- stroll the Botanical Gardens and Diamond Baths
- visit the sulphur springs
- hike to Sapphire Falls
- visit the Morne Coubaril Estate
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
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
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
Trip 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 Exceptional Voyages of Discovery (2026-27)
Alongside iconic expeditions in Antarctica, the Caribbean, Asia and the Atlantic archipelagos, you’ll find pioneering voyages aboard Le Commandant Charcot as it returns to the Far North, including the icy St Lawrence. Enriched by partnerships with Relais & Châteaux and the Club des Chefs des Chefs, these sailings blend exploration with artistry, offering transformative moments both on shore and on board.
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.
