Exploring the Malay Archipelago

Known as the Pearl of the Orient, Manila is the Philippine's sprawling capital city and a bustling hub of diverse cultures and heritage. Manila’s heady assortment of historical influences combine to give the city its unique identity. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Manila:

• visit Fort Santiago
• admire Filipino art at the Metropolitan Museum of Manila
• take a scenic drive to Tagaytay
• take the ferry to Corregidor Island to see sites that played pivotal roles in WWII

Located off the coast of the large island of Sibuyan, in the Romblon Province, Cresta de Gallo offers a real change of scenery, thanks to its breathtaking natural landscapes and its tropical vegetation. This preserved sanctuary is composed of two islands connected by a long white sandbar. The island is known to shelter diverse marine life, particularly colourful tropical fish and sea turtles. It has no tourist infrastructure or local community, and its ecosystem is rich in coral reefs. You will be able to explore the island on foot and take a dip in its crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for relaxing and swimming.

Travelling through the eastern provinces of the Philippines enables us to discover some of the last remaining pristine environments and remote untouched villages scattered throughout this nation of contrasts. The Cuatro Islands is a 12,500-hectare protected landscape and seascape situated in the municipalities of Inopacan and Hindang. The Cuatro Islands are four small islands renowned for their white sand beaches, traditional fishing villages and colourful marine environment. Here you will have the opportunity to witness village life in a remote, traditional fishing village and snorkel in the clear tropical waters.

The island of Limasawa is small, authentic, wild and well-preserved. It has historic importance, since it is known around the world as the cradle of Christianity in the Philippines. Luxuriant forests line its coastline, and many sites are perfect for diving. You will ride a tricycle up to Magellan’s Cross, an iconic site located on the island’s heights, before coming back down in the direction of the small temple and a wishing well where you will see typical shows and taste some local dishes. During a boat trip along the wooded coast, you will be able to go snorkelling and admire a great variety of coral and fish. Offering both discovery and relaxation, this port of call promises a total change of scenery.

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.

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.

In the heart of the Moluccas, Saparua Island offers an authentic port of call, where local traditions remain a way of life. After a traditional welcome in a small village, you will walk to a space devoted to cultural performances, before continuing on to a restored former Dutch fort, overlooking the ocean. With local guides, you will wander between the fort and the adjacent museum, dedicated to military history and regional conflicts. The island is particularly renowned for its traditional palm sugar production. Between heritage and strolling around the streets edged with old houses, this port of call will ensure a full immersion in the heart of the Moluccas culture.

An uninhabited island with untamed charm, Molana is perfect for a simple getaway by the sea. Edged by a vast white-sand beach, it is an invitation to relaxation, swimming and contemplation in pristine natural surroundings. You will see coconut shells broken by the coconut crab, a species that is only seen at night. Some traces of occasional occupation, such as an old abandoned site or temporary fishing camps, bear witness to human passage without altering the island’s isolated character. Between raw nature and absolute tranquillity, Molana offers a timeless port of call, ideal for savouring the simplicity of an intact environment.

Banda Neira is one of ten volcanic islands and the administrative centre of the Banda Archipelago. The Banda Islands, better known as the legendary 'Spice Islands' of the Ancient World, were the fabled prize of colonial powers for more than four centuries.

They are covered with towering, aromatic, tropical-evergreens and surrounded by a sparkling, sapphire sea. Its waters are brimming with exquisite corals and abundant ocean life, making the Banda Islands not only a historically significant destination, but also an internationally recognised diving spot.

Kitikiti Waterfall, located in the remote village of Mommon in Papua New Guinea, is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking natural beauty. The waterfall cascades majestically into a clear, emerald pool, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. The tranquil setting offers a perfect escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

A short hike through the dense jungle leads to the waterfall, where visitors can enjoy swimming in the refreshing waters or simply relaxing on the rocks. The area is also rich in birdlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Kitikiti Waterfall’s serene ambiance and stunning scenery provide an unforgettable experience for those visiting this remote part of Papua New Guinea.

Triton Bay, located in West Papua, Indonesia, is a hidden gem known for its stunning natural beauty and rich marine biodiversity. The bay's crystal-clear waters are perfect for diving and snorkelling, offering vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and colourful fish.

The surrounding limestone cliffs and lush rainforests provide a dramatic backdrop for kayaking and exploring secluded beaches. Visit the ancient rock art sites, which offer a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage. Triton Bay’s pristine environment and diverse attractions make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The Kei Islands are blessed with kilometres of stunning, yet almost entirely empty, white-sand beaches and a deeply hospitable population. Beneath the mostly Christian facade, Kei culture is fascinatingly distinctive.

Local history holds that ancestors of contemporary Kei islanders came from Bali, part of the expanding Hindu Majapahit kingdom from the western archipelago. Enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling on an idyllic uninhabited picture postcard tropical island.

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.

Australia's only tropical capital city, Darwin is rich in culture and ethnically diverse. While the Northern Territory boasts some of the most incredible wildlife on the planet, the city's museums celebrate the city's past and the galleries showcase the region's rich indigenous art. Ships will dock at Fort Hill Wharf.

Top Things to Do in Darwin:

• cruise the Darwin Harbour
• explore Litchfield or Kakadu National Park
• visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
• take a Jumping Crocodile Cruise
• visit the Darwin Botanic Gardens