Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.

Located less than 200 kilometres north-west of Tahiti, Huahine Island is a secret gem in French Polynesia. You’ll love the mysterious atmosphere emanating from its voluptuous contours, its wild vegetation and stunning remote creeks.   If you explore both parts of the island, la Grande Huahine to the north, and la Petite Huahine to the south, will reveal some of its hidden treasures, as well as some archaeological remains from the Polynesian past. You can meet the local population in the main town of Fare, or in the string of villages along the coast.

10 available excursions

Huahine safari expedition, Huahine Iti by 4x4, Island tour & snorkelling*, Huahine Iti by e-bike, Sacred sites & legendary places, ATV tour of Huahine Nui*, Huahine exploration by 4WD & boat, Day at the beach, Motu picnic, Lagoon cruise & snorkelling

A volcanic island located halfway between Huahine and Bora-Bora, Raiatea is like the mother of Polynesia. It was on its rocky flanks that the oldest traces of local habitation were found. According to legend, it was even the cradle of the gods... You can admire several sites that bear witness to this past, including the first Polynesian holy site, the Te-Po religious centre, including the marae Taputapuatea, a sort of altar made of stone and coral. Although beaches are rare on Raiatea, here nature is totally captivating, and the coral islets offer myriads of ravishing creeks.

6 available excursions

Discover Raiatea by 4x4, Anapa Pearl Farm and Snorkeling, Snorkel and Black Pearl Farm Adventure, Discover Faaroa River by Kayak, Coral Garden Drift Snorkel, Raiatea Highlights Tour,

Feet in the sand, on the islet of Motu Mahana, our sumptuous little private paradise, you will share a very special experience around an authentic traditional Polynesian barbecue. A veritable jewel in the Taha’a lagoon, pristine atoll of the Society Islands, Motu Mahana offers an infinite palette of shades of turquoise, an idyllic backdrop for observing the majestic ballet of the tropical fish. The volcanic island of Taha’a, dominated by Mount Ohiri and Mount Puurauti, will reveal its fertile and luxuriant nature, ideal for cultivating the magnificent black pearls of French Polynesia, as well as vanilla. This rare spice, greatly in demand by gourmets, is the main economic resource of what is also known as Vanilla Island.

7 available excursions

Coral garden drift snorkeling, Exploration of Taha'a, Taha'a cultural tour, Catamaran sail in Tahaa, Snorkel & Black pearl farm adventure, Waverunner and snorkeling adventure*, Waverunner discover*

Paradisiacal atoll of the archipelago of the Leeward Islands, west of French Polynesia, mythical Bora Bora offers a natural spectacle of captivating beauty. You’ll be won over as much by the white sandy beaches as by its famous lagoon, one of the most beautiful in the world, where colourful fish frolic in waters of incomparable turquoise. The island is covered with tropical vegetation, and dominated by the majestic outline of Mount Otemanu. A promenade through this volcanic landscape will enable you to discover a number of villages and meet local communities.

29 available excursions

ATV adventure in Bora Bora*, Bora Bora island tour by "Le truck", Aquabike adventure*, Pure snorkelling with reef discovery, Sunset sail by catamaran in Bora Bora, Aquasafari – Underwater walk, Lagoon excursion with Maohi Nui, Sharks & stingrays encounter, Bora Bora off-road adventure, Catamaran sail in Bora Bora, Glass-bottom boat (Bora Bora), Sunset Blue Lagoon escapade*, Circle island by waverunner*, Blue lagoon escapade*, Shark & ray watching by glass bottom boat, Sunset cruise on outrigger canoe, Lagoon cruise & Polynesian feast, Aquasafari – Underwater walk, Lagoon excursion with Maohi Nui, Relaxing time at the Lagoonarium, Bora Bora off-road adventure, Glass-bottom boat (Bora Bora), Circle island by waverunner*, Blue lagoon escapade*, ATV adventure in Bora Bora*, Bora Bora island tour by "Le truck", Aquabike adventure*, Pure snorkelling with reef discovery, Lagoon cruise & Polynesian feast,

A part of the Windward Island archipelago just to the west of Tahiti, famous Mo'orea will leave you with a series of unforgettable images and memories. Bask on its heavenly beaches, enjoy a dip in the turquoise waters of its lagoon, and soak up its luscious vegetation and the heady flowers that carpet the inland areas. Get the most out of this natural gem with a trip to the Mo'orea Belvedere. Exceptional views of Mount Rotui unfurl before your eyes, with the Opunohu Bay and its valley to the left, and the famous Cook's Bay, surrounded by notched, cathedral-style peaks, to the right.

16 available excursions

Island drive & belvedere, Lagoon discovery with snorkeling, Moorea by catajets*, Lagoon & ocean tour, Dolphin watching expedition, Slow paced belvedere & pineapple valley by e-Bike, Waverunner adventure*, Aito Off-Road safari, ATV guided tour*, Polynesian Cooking Class, Aquablue – Underwater walk, The 3 pinus hike, Capture Moorea – Photo adventure, Catamaran sail in Moorea, Lagoon tour and marine fauna, BBQ on Motu & snorkelling,

Capital of French Polynesia, the city of Papeete is on the north-west coast of the island of Tahiti. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere here,where urban buzz combines with the legendary laid-back Polynesian lifestyle. Culture is not lacking. You can enjoy sites narrating the history of the archipelago, including the colonial cathedral and the Maison de la reine Marau. The Vaipahi public gardens will win you over by their abundant plant-life. The large municipal market offers local specialities: fresh fruit, spices and all kinds of fish abound on their stalls.

3 available excursions

Lucca & Pisa, Renaissance Florence, Volterra and its Etruscan Museum

The largest city in Canada and capital of the province of Ontario, Toronto fascinates as much by its incredible diversity as by its size. Make sure you visit the CN Tower, the tallest tower in the western hemisphere, as well as the St. Lawrence Market whose stalls reflect the multicultural wealth of this city known as the global city. Not far from there, the historic Distillery District unveils its brick-paved streets imbued with romantic charm and its myriad of small restaurants, cafés, boutiques, theatres and art galleries. The Royal Ontario Museum and its impressive collections devoted to the world’s natural and cultural history will also be an unmissable stop during this port of call.

Port Colborne is a small port city located in southern Ontario, at the mouth of the Welland Canal. It is well-known for one of the longest locks in the world: measuring 420 metres, this lock, the 8^th in the canal, has an observation footbridge and marks the final transit point before the Erie Canal. In addition to the discovery of this tremendous hydraulic infrastructure, this port of call will be your privileged access point to the famous Niagara Falls, renowned all over the world for their spectacular beauty. Located on the river of the same name, which means “water thunder” in Amerindian language, these wonders of nature are among the most powerful waterfalls in the world.

Located to the south of Lake Huron and connected to Lake Ontario by the Welland Canal, Lake Erie, which owes its name to one of the Amerindian tribes which peopled its banks before the arrival of the French in the 17^th century, is remarkable for its unique ecosystem. Its shallow fish-filled waters make it an excellent fishing spot, while its banks, famous for their many migratory birds, attract photographers and ornithology enthusiasts.

During your navigation along the Detroit River, an important commercial waterway linking Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair to Lake Huron, you will sail along the largest city in Michigan. You’ll then enjoy panoramic views over the skyscrapers of the former Motor City, jewel of the automotive industry, Fordism and Motown music in the 20th century. You’ll also be able to admire the Ambassador Bridge, which spans the river and enables access to Windsor, on the Canadian shore of the river. This steel suspension bridge, over two kilometres long, was constructed in 1929. This bridge alone carries over 25% of trade between the United States and Canada.

A natural border between the American State of Michigan and the Canadian province of Ontario, Lake Huron is one of the five American Great Lakes and one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. Comprising the main lake, Saginaw Bay, the North Channel and Georgian Bay, and home to around 30,000 islands, it offers varied coastal landscapes and unique views. From your ship, you’ll thus be able to admire the wild beauty of the wooded and at times craggy coastline of Manitoulin Island, or the spectacular cliffs of the Bruce Peninsular.

A small port town located along the North Channel of Lake Huron, Little Current is considered to be the gateway to Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world. The town’s emblematic construction, the Little Current Swing Bridge built in 1913, provides the only land access to the island, peaceful lands whose name means “the island of spirits” in the local dialect. A real haven of peace, sheltering wild nature and some hamlets, the place is ideal for outdoor activities such as horse-riding and hiking.

Located to the east of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, Sault Ste. Marie is one of the oldest cities in the United States. Separated from its Canadian twin city by St. Marys River, it is famous among other things for its locks, known as either the Sault Locks or the Soo Locks, which enable ships to travel the metres in change in elevation between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes. These locks, which date back over 160 years, are considered the most important in the world due to their shipping traffic. Make sure you visit the Museum Ship Valley Camp where you can visit the interior of a former freighter that sailed on the Great Lakes for more than 50 years.

Close to the banks of Lake Huron in the State of Michigan, Mackinac Island promises a real journey through time. Originally inhabited by Amerindians, then occupied by French and British colonists, this small island measuring only a few km² still retains an atmosphere of yesteryear today, with its Victorian-style buildings and elegant horse-drawn carriages. Fort Mackinac, on the heights of the island, is a reminder of the conflicts that punctuated the history of this strategic place, a former fur trade centre. In addition to this scenery from the past, the island offers magnificent fine sandy beaches and is home to one of the oldest National Parks in the United States.

You will sail the United States’ largest freshwater body, which gave its name to Michigan, one of the four states that border this lake measuring 500 km long and 200 km wide. The first colonists settled in the south at the end of the 17th century, on the site of the current megalopolis of Chicago. Wild landscapes of forests with sparkling colours, cliffs, golden sandy beaches and dunes as far as the eye can see stretch along its 2,600 km of shoreline. In the north, magnificent wind-swept islands rise out of the lake’s emerald waters. At 8 km long, the Mackinac Bridge, which spans the straits between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, is one of the world’s longest suspension bridges. 

Nested on the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee, the largest city in the State of Wisconsin, harmoniously combines tradition and modernity. Industrial long ago, the city, known as Brew City because of its old breweries renowned all over the world, is experiencing a certain renaissance. While warehouses have given way to restaurants, bars, theatres and art galleries in the city centre, the district still retains traces of its manufacturing past. Further south lies Chicago, the economic centre of the Midwest, with an interesting mix of natural and urban landscapes: its immense skyscrapers, diverse architecture, many parks and magnificent beaches make the city a popular destination.

The capital of Curaçao stretches along the edge of St Ann's Bay on the island's south-west coast, and its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site. A profusion of colour awaits you on the Handelskade quays, where it's a pleasure to stroll alongside the merchants' houses whose rainbow façades characterise Dutch colonial architecture. A few paces from here is the Floating Market, a true feast for the eyes and tastebuds. You can also visit Fort Rif and the Maritime Museum, or, in the quieter streets of Otrobanda, you'll enjoy browsing the craft shops and old-time bars at your own leisurely pace.

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.

Santa Marta, located in the north of the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is a seaside town dominated by the majestic Sierra Nevada. The highest coastal chain of mountains in the world, it is listed as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO for the diversity of its fauna and flora. At the heart of the first Spanish colony, you will discover the heritage of the Tairona, the largest indigenous civilisation in Colombia. The eponymous national park offers you sumptuous landscapes, combining lush tropical forest and beautiful fine sandy beaches edged with crystal-clear water. The archaeological heritage and the Pre-Columbian treasures of the region are a source of endless enchantment.

A splendid harbour city in the north of Columbia, a source of inspiration for the Columbian writer Gabriel García Márquez, Cartagena will win you over with its well-preserved colonial architecture, and warm friendly atmosphere. You can visit the sumptuous UNESCO World Heritage fortified historical centre whose churches and houses have magnificent multi-coloured façades. A witness of Spanish domination, the San Felipe de Barajas fortress stands on top of a hill from where you can admire views over the whole city. The Las Bóvedas neighbourhood will charm you with its arcades, used as prison cells during the 19^th century civil wars.

Located on the north-east coast of Panama, the San Blas archipelago is a string of coral islands in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. More than 300 islands and cays cover an area of 300 square kilometres offering travellers a multitude of treasures. Sheltered behind a long coral reef, the San Blas Islands are full of enchanting anchorages. The long sandy white beaches bound by crystal-clear waters will allow you to relax and enjoy incredible marine fauna before engaging with the Kunas Indian community. Still subsisting on hunting and fishing, they will welcome you in their villages of bamboo houses gathered near the beaches.

In the Colón District, Fort San Lorenzo faces the sea, its canons pointing towards the horizon as they used to under the Spanish Crown. This construction is part of a group of buildings exemplifying the military architecture of the 17th and 18th centuries along the Caribbean coast of Panama, hence its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander along the fort’s alleyways accompanied by the melodious singing of the birds that have made the surrounding forest their home. Enjoy an unforgettable port of call combining history and walking in nature.

Colón is the second largest city in Panama, at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Colón is today an important port, and the free trade zone created in 1953 contributed greatly to the development of the city. Colón was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts through the isthmus of Panama; the city rapidly overshadowed the older Caribbean ports of Panama when the canal opened.

Located on the western coast of Martinique, Fort-de-France will amaze you by the splendour of its bay, a magnificent cut-out in the coastline, considered as one of the most beautiful in the world. At the harbour mouth, on its strip of land, fort Saint-Louis overlooks the capital city of Martinique. If you climb up to it, you can see some breath-taking views. Saint Louis Cathedral and the Schoelcher library bear witness to a secular history, intimately linked to the island’s story. Why not try some fresh coconut at the colourful Grand Marché. Two really pleasant places you can take a breather in, right in the heart of the city, are the garden of Balata and the Aimé Césaire park.

In the heart of the Caribbean, Bequia is the second-largest of 32 islands that make up the country of St Vincent and the Grenadines. You will love the lively and picturesque atmosphere of Port Elizabeth, the island’s main town. From the port, a promenade lined with beautiful traditional houses, landscaped gardens and small restaurants runs along the shoreline. It leads to Princess Margaret Beach, a wild beach where Princess Margaret herself has stayed and which seems to emerge directly from the tropical forest. From rainforest to lush meadows and long stretches of sand, Bequia will offer you a natural setting that is conducive to lovely walks and to spending time on the beach.

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.

Among the string of paradisiac islands with their sandy beaches that form the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines archipelago, Mayreau is the smallest. Its peaceful and idyllic atmosphere, far from the madding crowd, invites you to relax. On shore, enjoy a shaded and fully equipped beach from which to go snorkelling if you’d like to observe the colourful fish around the coral sitting at the foot of the rocks that stretch across the bay.

Deserted bays, long stretches of golden sand, turquoise waters and endless coral reefs – Union Island is without a doubt one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. Overlooked by soaring peaks, this strange little strip of land owes its nickname of “the Tahiti of the West Indies” to its volcanic silhouette and its large swathes of greenery. When you call here, you will discover what the locals consider to be “the best-kept secret in the Grenadines” -Chatham Bay. Surrounded by hills and valleys carpeted in tropical rainforest, sheltering many sea turtles, this delightful half-moon of sand is, each day, the setting for the tireless ballet of the numerous pelicans who inhabit the island.

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. You will thoroughly enjoy the calm and beauty of this place, which is really conducive to simply relaxing.

Nestled in the crook of a breath-taking bay, the former capital of St Lucia is brimming with attractions. Soufrière is famous for The Pitons, volcanic spires that tower over the entrance to the town. In the vicinity of the lush botanical gardens, you will be able to enjoy the curative powers of the Diamond Falls mineral baths. From the beach at the north end of the bay, you can set off to explore the reefs that are home to stunning gardens of sea fans at the foot of the cliffs that plunge into the sea.

During the feast of All Saints in 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered this archipelago of nine islands that he named "The Saints". Today, only two of them are inhabited. Terre de Haut, in the east, is dominated by the Morne Mire hill; at the summit stands Fort Napoleon, paying homage to the islands' history. In the heart of the botanical garden, shared by iguanas and cacti, there is an exceptional view of the Baie des Saintes, one of the most beautiful in the world. The long shady beach of Pompierre, where it is forbidden to drop anchor, is a peaceful place for a swim, while Pain de Sucre Beach offers wonderful opportunities for snorkelling. On the island, don’t forget to taste the local speciality, the “tourment d’amour”, a cake made with coconut.

With its mountainous terrain, vast tropical forest, hot springs, rivers and spectacular waterfalls, Dominica is undoubtedly the wildest island in the Caribbean. Protected by several national parks, this little-known land, located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, between Guadeloupe and Martinique, will inspire adventure and exploration. During your port of call, do not miss out on discovering the enchanting landscapes of the Indian River: navigating through this dense mangrove, in which creepers, ferns, forest trees and giant roots are interweaved, is a magical experience, a fascinating voyage into the heart of an almost mystical natural universe.

Located on the western coast of Martinique, Fort-de-France will amaze you by the splendour of its bay, a magnificent cut-out in the coastline, considered as one of the most beautiful in the world. At the harbour mouth, on its strip of land, fort Saint-Louis overlooks the capital city of Martinique. If you climb up to it, you can see some breath-taking views. Saint Louis Cathedral and the Schoelcher library bear witness to a secular history, intimately linked to the island’s story. Why not try some fresh coconut at the colourful Grand Marché. Two really pleasant places you can take a breather in, right in the heart of the city, are the garden of Balata and the Aimé Césaire park.

Colón is the second largest city in Panama, at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Colón is today an important port, and the free trade zone created in 1953 contributed greatly to the development of the city. Colón was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts through the isthmus of Panama; the city rapidly overshadowed the older Caribbean ports of Panama when the canal opened.

Located on the north-east coast of Panama, the San Blas archipelago is a string of coral islands in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. More than 300 islands and cays cover an area of 300 square kilometres offering travellers a multitude of treasures. Sheltered behind a long coral reef, the San Blas Islands are full of enchanting anchorages. The long sandy white beaches bound by crystal-clear waters will allow you to relax and enjoy incredible marine fauna before engaging with the Kunas Indian community. Still subsisting on hunting and fishing, they will welcome you in their villages of bamboo houses gathered near the beaches.

Aboard your ship, experience something unique, that has inspired the imagination of numerous adventurers in the 20th century: sailing the Panama Canal. Its construction started in 1880 under the direction of Ferdinand de Lesseps. Abandoned then resumed, this marvel of engineering was completed by the United States and opened in 1914. The canal crosses the Isthmus of Panama and links the Atlantic to the Pacific. Including three levels of locks and by raising ships to the level of Lake Gatun, almost as if the water was a lift, it allows them to avoid having to round Cape Horn.

An artificial peninsula situated at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, Fuerte Amador is the gateway to several noteworthy sites. Right near there, the impressive Miraflores Locks are a shining example of the engineering feats deployed during the construction of the Panama Canal. Further north, in villages nestling amid dense vegetation, lives the Embera tribe, guardian of the forest and of the Chagres River. This proud people have successfully preserved their traditions and their ancestral way of life, which predate the colonisation of the region by the Spanish.

The most remote and least developed region of Panama, the province of Darien is an unspoilt land with an extremely rich variety of flora and fauna. Listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, Darien National Park offers its extraordinary scenery of rocky coastlines, mountain ranges, mangroves, rivers and creeks. Discover Playa Muerto, a tiny coastal village home to the Emberas Amerindian community. You will visit the village, attend traditional songs and dances of the locals, and admire beautiful local craft.

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.

The town of Golfito lies on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the province of Puntarenas, one of the most humid regions in the world. It was occupied by the indigenous Bruncas tribe during the Pre-Columbian era. Once specialised in the export of bananas, Golfito has today become the starting point for visitors who want to reach one of the largest primary tropical rainforests in Central America. Meanwhile, the beaches of Golfo Dulce are some of the most beautiful in Costa Rica, with the lush forest, home to many tropical birds and monkeys as well as a variety of rare species of plants, as their backdrop.

The capital of the eponymous province, Puntarenas is sometimes called “the pearl of the Pacific”, for its unique charm. It sits on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, along the Gulf of Nicoya, lined with long expanses of wild natural environments. Further inland, among the countless natural wonders to be found in the generous rainforest of the Costa Rica’s national parks, Poas and Arena volcanoes towers up in all their majestic glory. In this luxuriant natural setting, Costa Rica protects one of the planet’s richest biodiversity: monkeys, sloths, tropical birds, iguanas, crocodiles, waterfalls, canyons, and more than ten thousand species of tropical plants.

Located on the west coast of the French side of Saint Martin, an island in the north-east of the Caribbean Sea, Marigot has stunning discoveries in store for you. Its streets are home to old Creole huts, the traditional dwellings in the 19^th century, as well as a host of luxury boutiques and artist studios. Overlooking Marigot Bay and facing Anguilla, Fort Louis is an ideal spot from which to admire the Simpson Bay Lagoon and the surrounding small, lush mountains. For those who enjoy walking, taking a lovely stroll from the Fort Louis marina via the market, is an opportunity to fully enjoy the easy way of life in this charming, picturesque town.

During your day at sea on board Le Ponant, make the most of your free time and the comfort of your ship for a moment of rest or conviviality. If the weather is right, let yourself be tempted by a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to do some shopping in the boutique and share the highlights of your cruise with the other passengers. 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 relaxation, sharing and the pleasure of sailing on a yacht.

This little slice of crescent-shaped land is located in the vast lagoon of Anguilla, off the north-west coast. It has all the magical allure of a desert island. To shelter you from the sun’s blaze in the hottest part of the day, the only constructions to be seen are wooden pergolas nestling among the coconut palms. You can swim, snorkel, or just chill.

Virgin Gorda is one of the British Virgin Islands archipelago’s largest islands. There, you will discover The Spring Bay National Park and its well-renowned picture-postcard beaches. Gigantic volcanic boulders sit surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, creating spectacular geological formations. Indeed, over the years a network of basins, caves and natural pools has formed, resulting in a sublime aquatic maze in which it is enjoyable to lose oneself. On the island’s south-eastern tip, Copper Mine National Park is still home to many ruins of an abandoned copper mine that looks out over the sea.

The private property of an American philanthropist, this “pirate island” is brimming with stories of adventure. It is said that pirates used to come here to hide their loot, that a fisherman found treasure deep in a cave here and that it is where Robert Louis Stevenson found the inspiration to write his famous novel. Today, the island is very popular for its snorkelling and diving spots. You will be able to explore the caves of Treasure Point, and kayak to Peter Island with a guide. With its numerous hiking paths, the island is also perfect for walking. Go up the hill to make the most of the incredible views over the Sir Francis Drake Channel. The large port offers passing ships substantial protection. The island is inhabited only by pelicans and wild goats, but you will be able to enjoy grilled fish, seafood and cocktails in one of the establishments on the beach.

2 available excursions

Hiking on Norman Island, Treasure Island caves

Emerging from the waters of the Caribbean Sea like a natural jewel, Cooper Island is an invitation to peace, contemplation and wonder. On these preserved volcanic lands, the sheer coastlines mingle harmoniously with the waves that caress the shorelines. Enjoy a sunset walk in the heart of the tropical forest, where the mystical murmur of the different bird species makes itself heard and where the creepers snake around secular trees. Cooper Island, a setting of pristine beauty, offers those who explore it an unforgettable escapade in a tropical paradise unlike any other.

Connected to the island of Tortola by the Queen Elizabeth Bridge, Beef Island will provide you with an enchanted interlude. You will disembark by Zodiac in Trellis Bay, a small town with a market, restaurant, café, boutiques selling local crafts and a beach. Visit the shops, boutiques and the Aragorn art gallery, where you will find artisanal objects from the Caribbean, jewellery, sculptures, calabash purses and bowls as well as handwoven baskets.

During your day at sea on board Le Ponant, make the most of your free time and the comfort of your ship for a moment of rest or conviviality. If the weather is right, let yourself be tempted by a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to do some shopping in the boutique and share the highlights of your cruise with the other passengers. 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 relaxation, sharing and the pleasure of sailing on a yacht.

During your cruise, discover the pearl of the British Virgin Islands, said to have been named after a fearsome Dutch pirate from long ago. he hilly landscape offers travellers beautiful wild expanses lined with immaculate beaches where the breeze gently caresses the coconut palms. In this slice of heaven with crystal-clear waters, you will be able to enjoy the lively atmosphere of White Bay. As for the wildlife, iguanas, mongooses, pelicans and blue herons have taken up residence on these islands, much to the delight of our passengers who love a good holiday snap!

1 available excursion

White Bay at sunset

Connected to the island of Tortola by the Queen Elizabeth Bridge, Beef Island will provide you with an enchanted interlude. You will disembark by Zodiac in Trellis Bay, a small town with a market, restaurant, café, boutiques selling local crafts and a beach. Visit the shops, boutiques and the Aragorn art gallery, where you will find artisanal objects from the Caribbean, jewellery, sculptures, calabash purses and bowls as well as handwoven baskets.

1 available excursion

Marina Cay, a dream private island

A small and uninhabited island edged with low cliffs and sandy beaches, Dog Island and the three cays that make it up are an important bird breeding area. You will be able to observe a great number of nesting seabirds here, mainly sooty terns. Other seabirds breed here in smaller numbers, in particular red-billed tropicbirds, magnificent frigatebirds, masked boobies, brown boobies, black-headed gulls, bridled terns and brown noddies. The island is also home to several kinds of small reptiles, as well as wild goats. You will also be able to experience the joys of swimming, kayaking and free-diving. 

1 available excursion

Exploring the island with the Anguilla National Trust

The capital of the Dutch part of Saint-Martin, in the south of the island, Philipsburg is bordered by a 3-km (1.9-mile) long expanse of sand. Following a stroll along Front Street and Back Street, the lively streets edged with houses with colourful facades, take a break on a lounger opposite the calm and turquoise sea of Great Bay. Sint Maarten Museum will immerse you in the past of the Arawaks, an indigenous people of the West Indies. You will also be able to admire the view from Fort Amsterdam, the first fort constructed by the Dutch in the 17th century.