Nature and Heritage from the Philippines to Taiwan

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 at the entrance to Manila Bay, Corregidor Island blends wild nature and historical remnants, offering an atmosphere that is at once peaceful and fascinating. Once the gateway to the transpacific trade facilitated by the Spanish, connecting Acapulco to Manila, it has become a strong symbol of the Second World War. Plunge into this historic sanctuary by discovering its fortifications, the ruins of its barracks and gun batteries, its tunnels and its impressive miliary memorial devoted to Filipino, American and Japanese soldiers.

A protected area created in 1940, the Hundred Islands National Park is a designated natural site that brings together 124 beautiful tropical islands and islets, scattered across the crystal-clear waters of the Lingayen Gulf. It is an iconic attraction in the Philippines, offering visitors charming white sandy beaches, abundant vegetation and marine life. This preserved site also has limestone cliffs and coral reefs, making it a veritable corner of paradise for nature fans.

Located in the charming municipality of Claveria in Cagayan, Claveria Beach is a hidden jewel offering visitors a real coastal experience. It is characterised by its natural beauty, and its inhabitants live onfishing and farming, mainly rice. You will be able to watch the fishermen return with their catch and discover the local traditions of this community, which is home to 32,000 inhabitants. A genuinely lush destination, the scenic route to Sentinella Hill affords stunning views over the mountains and the coast. In the heart of the Santa Maria Chapel, children playing guitar and dancers will set the rhythm of this tranquil escape. Featuring relaxation and a change of scenery, the port of call in Claveria promises to be idyllic.

In the north of the Philippines, the unspoilt Batanes archipelago reveals landscapes of striking beauty, with wind-beaten cliffs and verdant hills. From Basco, the province’s emblematic lighthouse, roads lined with flowers lead to the villages of the Ivatan people, whose stone houses are designed to withstand typhoons. This remote and peaceful archipelago offers an atmosphere where nature is ever-present, shaping a unique and still little-known part of the world.

Kaohsiung, Taiwan's second-largest city, is a vibrant metropolis known for its bustling port, rich cultural scene, and scenic beauty. The city boasts the impressive Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond, where visitors can enter through the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s, symbolising turning bad luck into good fortune.

Kaohsiung's artistic side is showcased at the Pier-2 Art Centre, a repurposed warehouse district now filled with galleries, shops, and installations. The city’s Love River is ideal for a leisurely boat ride or a scenic walk along its banks. Nearby, Cijin Island offers beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, and historical sites like the Cihou Fort. With its blend of cultural landmarks, modern attractions, and natural beauty, Kaohsiung is a dynamic destination in Taiwan.

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.

Taipei City stands as a vibrant metropolis set against the backdrop of towering mountains, offering a unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Its iconic Taipei 101, once the world's tallest building, provides panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape. The bustling night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, offer an array of local delicacies, showcasing Taipei's rich culinary heritage.

Culture and history intertwine at the National Palace Museum, housing an extensive collection of Chinese imperial art that spans millennia. For a peaceful retreat, the nearby hot springs of Beitou invite visitors to relax in their therapeutic waters. Taipei is a city that constantly surprises, combining tradition with modernity in ways that captivate the hearts of travellers.

In Keelung, cruise ships dock at the Keelung Port, which serves as the gateway to Taipei, located approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) away. Travel time to Taipei can vary, but it generally takes about 30 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.

For exploring Taipei, travellers have several transportation options including taxis, buses, and trains. The city is renowned for its rich blend of modern and traditional cultures, with must-visit sights like the Taipei 101 skyscraper and the historical Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. For a convenient and immersive experience, consider joining a guided tour or utilizing the efficient MRT (Metro) system to navigate the city's highlights.