Cruising the Caribbean's Windward Islands - with Smithsonian Journeys
Overview
Ponant brings you an itinerary to the heart of read more the most enchanting islands in the Caribbean Sea. Board Le Dumont-d'Urville for a 9-day cruise combining long stretches of white-sand beach, idyllic turquoise waters, and the laid-back island way of life. Board your ship in Vieux Fort, St. Lucia, whose two majestic volcanic peaks - the Gros and Petit Pitons - jut dramatically from sea to sky and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will then set sail for Portsmouth in Dominica, a mountainous island where inland rivers and nature trails provide a glimpse into the intriguing flora and fauna of the island and - if you are lucky - the chance to see the nation's national bird, the Sisserou Parrot.
Do not miss the opportunity to sample some native chocolate from a local maker. Continue north to Les Saintes, a small archipelago of Guadeloupe, a highly popular anchorage site with crystal-clear waters and fabulous seabeds where opportunities to enjoy the seascape abound. Snorkel, swim, or kayak in the shadow of the imposing 19th-century Fort Napoléon. Your ship will then sail south to the archipelago of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Here, begin on the island of Bequia, where small, picturesque villages, unbelievably clear waters, and brightly colored coral reefs prove main attractions. Then, enjoy a day on your magnificent private beach on the island of Mayreau.
Continue to Saint George's, the capital of Grenada, a hilly island of unspoiled beauty and the southernmost isle of the Lesser Antilles. Nicknamed the Spice Island, Grenada is home to a number of nutmeg plantations, which you may choose to visit. Anchor next in the Tobago Cays Marine Park. This circle of islands, bound together by arguably the most beautiful coral reef in the West Indies, will reveal its incredible underwater wildlife during your visit. Le Dumont-d'Urville sails on to Bridgetown, Barbados, whose UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic center reveals touches of its British colonial past around every corner.
Toast the end of your cruise with a glass of the island's famous rum as you relish the memories of your week at sea on this breathtaking stretch of the Caribbean! To further enhance your Caribbean odyssey, an experienced diving instructor will be on board for the entire cruise, enabling you to safely enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent). (Diving is at an additional cost.) The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
9 Days
Vieux Fort
Bridgetown
Ponant Explorers
184
118
2019
VIFBGI8
Itinerary
Vieux Fort lies to the far south of the island of Saint Lucia. This town, which was a strategic location in the sugar industry from the 18th to the 19th centuries, derives its authenticity from its rich history. Renowned for its LCVIF and beaches typical of the Caribbean, it is also famous for its mythical Moule-a-Chique Lighthouse. Built in 1912 and standing 200 metres (656 feet) tall, this lighthouse will be visible as soon as you arrive on the Saint Lucian coastlines. The beauty of Vieux Fort is also reflected in the underwater kingdom that surrounds it. It is home to an abundance of marine species, such as eagle rays or leatherback sea turtles. Vieux Fort is most likely to evoke feelings of enchantment and it reserves a soothing welcome, paced by the rhythm of its waves, for each of its visitors.
With its mountainous terrain, vast tropical forest, hot springs, rivers and spectacular waterfalls, Dominica is undoubtedly the wildest island in the Caribbean. Set on sweeping Prince Rupert Bay, backed by steep hills and fronted by a long black-sand beach, Portsmouth is your gateway to this little-known land. Ships will dock at this port.
Top Things to Do in Portsmouth:
- enjoy a boat ride up the Indian River
- hike the Syndicate Nature Trail
- visit the Chocolate Factory in Pointe Baptiste
- explore Cabrits National Park
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
Bequia, an island of the Grenadines, is a rustic, unassuming and off-the-beaten-path choice. Offering glorious, often deserted, beaches of pure golden sand, and hillside sweeps of forest and almond trees, Bequia Island is an extraordinary feast for the senses. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to Port Elizabeth.
Top Things to Do on Bequia:
- explore the Island of St. Vincent
- sail around Bequia
- hike through the forest to Crescent Beach
- relax at Bequia Beach Resort
At two square miles, Mayreau is the smallest of the Grenadine Islands. With picture-postcard beaches, a friendly village with a quaint old church and a peaceful atmosphere, Mayreau is the untouched Caribbean you only hear of in whispers. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.
Top Things to Do on Mayreau:
- relax on the beach at Saline Bay
- sail and snorkel the Tobago Cays
- sail to Mopion Islet
- visit the Station Hill village and take in the views of the surrounding islands
Grenada, the Caribbean's "Isle of Spice," is renowned for producing nutmeg, mace, clove, cinnamon, and cocoa. The island's fragrant aroma envelops its emerald hillsides, tropical forests, and sun-drenched beaches. Start your adventure by snorkeling at the unique Underwater Sculpture Park, an underwater gallery of marine life and art.
For stunning views, visit Fort Frederick, then explore the lush landscapes of Grand Etang National Park. Spot sea turtles at Levera National Park and tour a spice garden to learn about the island's famous spices. For a thrilling experience, try river tubing down the Balthazar River. Grenada's vibrant culture and natural beauty make it a captivating destination.
Ships docking in St. George's, Grenada, typically arrive at the Melville Street Cruise Terminal. This terminal is conveniently located just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the city center, a short 5-minute walk. St. George's is known for its picturesque harbor, historic forts, and vibrant market square.
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.
Bridgetown, the captivating capital of Barbados, combines faded colonial history, captivating tradition, and vivid white beaches. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Ships will dock at this port.
Top Things to Do in Bridgetown:
- ride an electric tram into Harrison Cave
- look for green monkeys in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
- relax at the Copacabana Beach Bar
- visit the George Washington House
- go underwater in the Atlantis Submarine
Bridgetown, the captivating capital of Barbados, combines faded colonial history, captivating tradition, and vivid white beaches. Stately colonial buildings intermingle with colourful wooden homes, open-air markets and catch-of-the-day cafés. Ships will dock at this port.
Top Things to Do in Bridgetown:
- ride an electric tram into Harrison Cave
- look for green monkeys in the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
- relax at the Copacabana Beach Bar
- visit the George Washington House
- go underwater in the Atlantis Submarine
Life On Board
Voyage in complete luxury and dine on French gastronomy as you enjoy an expedition cruise on Le Dumont-D'Urville. Read more
Your ocean facing stateroom or suite offers chic decor, luxurious amenities and 24 hour room service. Read more
Watch the ocean pass by as you take a dip in the glass walled infinity pool. Read more
The sophistication and innovation of this underwater lounge will be a highlight of onboard life. Read more
Making embarking and disembarking easy, the marina also serves as a sun deck or watersports platform. Read more
Dine al fresco at the grill or enjoy buffet and table service in the main restaurant. Read more
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this cruise. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.
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.
