Le Soleal

<p style="text-align: justify;">In New Guinea, the traces of the modern world end at the edge of <strong>impenetrable rainforests, mysterious volcanic fjords and pristine coral reefs. </strong>These last wild frontiers are home to countless communities with ancestral and secret traditions. <strong>In Papua New Guinea, on the shores of Alotau, Tufi, Madang and Kopar, </strong>at the mouth of the Sepik River, meet them amidst traditional ceremonies and fascinating landscapes. In Indonesian territory, unspoilt nature reveals its treasures: <strong>whale sharks in Cenderawasih Bay, the karst islands of Triton Bay and the immaculate beaches of the Kai Islands</strong> are all invitations to explore.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>The wildlife encounters are possible experiences and cannot be guaranteed.</em></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Timor, Flores, Sumbawa, Komodo, Banda Neira</strong>… Just mentioning the names of these islands is enough to conjure up images of spectacular blooms, wide emerald-coloured bays, island-volcanoes, villages peopled with inhabitants who have preserved long-lasting traditions, prehistoric animals, hills covered in tropical forests, dazzling white sandy beaches, and waves crashing down on the coral.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From the secret waterfalls gushing in the heart of luxuriant jungles to the peaceful lagoons edged with captivating coral reefs, the landscapes of <strong>the Indonesian archipelago and East Timor</strong> are like living paintings. In the gentle trade winds, set off to <strong>discover ancestral cultures and vibrant traditions.</strong> The villages of thatched houses, lulled by the soothing rhythm of the waves, invite you to discover welcoming communities and preserved know-how.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Sail from island to island, experiencing idyllic landscapes and unforgettable encounters as you discover the riches of the Indonesian archipelago and the northern shores of Australia. From Bali, the celebrated “island of the gods”, set off to explore a fascinating territory, home to Komodo dragons, karst islands, stunning sea life and captivating history. Between a few swims or snorkelling session, immerse yourself in the local Indonesian and Papuan communities, guardians of a thousand-year-old <strong>traditional</strong> way of life, and plunge into the mysteries of these remote lands, which reveal lush and wild nature. </p> <p><em>The wildlife encounters are possible experiences and cannot be guaranteed.</em></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">From sea to sea, or from continent to continent, <strong>PONANT</strong> welcomes you aboard its ships for a <strong>Sea Journey</strong>. A few times a year we invite sea lovers, dreamers, and keen observers of endless horizons to join our non-stop journeys, to enjoy the comfort of our ships for an extended period and share the daily lives of our crew.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">As the days go by, you can admire the waves from the upper deck, keep fit in the spa and make good use of the pool or the gym, share the daily life of the crew, discover sailing techniques and instruments, and enjoy a break from the hectic pace of life.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>PONANT</strong>invites you to discover the wild and untouched beauty of<strong>New Zealands Fiordlands and Subantarctic Islands</strong>. Set sail on a<strong>15-day expedition cruise</strong>with an<strong>exceptional</strong><strong>itinerary</strong>and allow yourself to be transported to another world where the wildlife rules and you are but visitors.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From<strong>Dunedin</strong>, the Edinburgh of New Zealand that is a lively student city with a rich Scottish Heritage, you will reach<strong>Ulva Island</strong>. This first call on Paterson Inlet is renowned as an extraordinary nature sanctuary. Our team of naturalists and destination experts will be on hand to show you some of the rarest bird species in the world.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will follow your voyage towards<strong>Fiordland National Park</strong>, which is part of Te Whipounamu, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, home to the majestic<strong>Dusky Sound</strong>,<strong>Doubtful Sound</strong>and<strong>Milford Sound</strong>.You will enjoy a zodiac cruise and spot Fiordland crested penguins, get up close to spectacular waterfalls and enjoy the vistas from the ships outer decks.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will then head to the<strong>Snares islands</strong>, a haven for the countrys wildlife with some 35,000 endemic Snares Gorfous and a colony of around a thousand fur seals before discovering<strong>Macquarie Island</strong>, part of Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Often described as the Galpagos of the Southern Ocean, the<strong>Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand</strong>are among some of the best preserved and protected environments on the planet, where you will experience scenery and wildlife like nowhere else on Earth. You will be captivated by the breathtaking scenery, meadows of megaherb forming a colourful tapestry, and towering cliffs buffeted by the power of the waves and wind - the playground of the Royal Albatross. With a myriad of penguins patrolling the black sandy beaches it is truly a nature-lovers dream come true.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will finally reach<strong>Dunedin</strong>, the end of your voyage.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>Any disembarkation on the Subantarctic Islands is subject to weather conditions and on obtaining the authorisation of the local authorities. To preserve the wild environment of these islands, the number of visitors is in fact strictly controlled. Wherever possible, we will run Zodiac excursions around their shorelines in order to guarantee the best possible experience for all guests if it is not possible to disembark.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>PONANT</strong> invites you to discover the wild and untouched beauty of <strong>New Zealand’s Fiordlands and Subantarctic Islands</strong>. Set sail on a <strong>15-day expedition cruise</strong> with an <strong>exceptional</strong> <strong>itinerary</strong> and allow yourself to be transported to another world where the wildlife rules and you are but visitors.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Dunedin</strong>, the Edinburgh of New Zealand that is a lively student city with a rich Scottish Heritage, you will reach <strong>Ulva Island</strong>. This first call on Paterson Inlet is renowned as an extraordinary nature sanctuary. Our team of naturalists and destination experts will be on hand to show you some of the rarest bird species in the world.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will follow your voyage towards <strong>Fiordland National Park</strong>, which is part of Te Wähipounamu, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, home to the majestic <strong>Dusky Sound</strong>, <strong>Doubtful Sound</strong> and <strong>Milford Sound</strong>.  You will enjoy a zodiac cruise and spot Fiordland crested penguins, get up close to spectacular waterfalls and enjoy the vistas from the ship’s outer decks.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will then head to the <strong>Snares islands</strong>, a haven for the country’s wildlife with some 35,000 endemic Snares Gorfous and a colony of around a thousand fur seals before discovering <strong>Macquarie Island</strong>, part of Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Often described as the Galápagos of the Southern Ocean, the <strong>Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand</strong> are among some of the best preserved and protected environments on the planet, where you will experience scenery and wildlife like nowhere else on Earth. You will be captivated by the breathtaking scenery, meadows of megaherb forming a colourful tapestry, and towering cliffs buffeted by the power of the waves and wind - the playground of the Royal Albatross. With a myriad of penguins patrolling the black sandy beaches it is truly a nature-lover’s dream come true.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will finally reach<strong> Dunedin</strong>, the end of your voyage.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>Any disembarkation on the Subantarctic Islands is subject to weather conditions and on obtaining the authorisation of the local authorities. To preserve the wild environment of these islands, the number of visitors is in fact strictly controlled. Wherever possible, we will run Zodiac excursions around their shorelines in order to guarantee the best possible experience for all guests if it is not possible to disembark.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>In collaboration with an organization renowned for supporting science research, education, and trailblazing expeditions around the world, this unique voyage will feature an esteemed member of The Explorers Club to share onboard lectures and exploration stories throughout your journey.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Embark on an extraordinary adventure to the seldom visited <strong>Ross Sea</strong> from New Zealand and walk in the footsteps of legendary polar explorers on this exciting expedition.</p> <p>Sailing from Dunedin in New Zealand, start in Enderby Island, part of New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands, and discover the island’s spectacular flora and fauna.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">While you enjoy some time at sea and take advantage of talks and lectures on board by your team of expedition guides, be prepared to reach the Ross Sea,<strong> the Southernmost sea on Earth</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Alongside your expedition team, you will have the privilege of exploring this fascinating region and learn all about its history and natural environment, all in one of the most pristine, spectacular settings. Observe the<strong> largest Adelie penguin rookeries in the world</strong>, sail pass gigantic icebergs and thundering glaciers during a zodiac excursion, or spot Weddell Seals as they relax or hunt on icefloes.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Depending on weather conditions, you may have the opportunity to visit historic buildings including Sir Ernest Shackleton’s hut at Cape Royds, and reflect on the heroic polar journeys of some of the world’s most intrepid polar explorers.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On your way back to New Zealand, enjoy some time on Australia’s <strong>Macquarie Island</strong>, and its impressive colony of king penguins, as well as the Snares islands and their unique wildlife sanctuary, before disembarking in Dunedin. A truly memorable adventure not many have the chance to experience!</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>We are privileged guests in these remote lands where we are at the mercy of weather, ice, tidal and current conditions. Landings on certain sites and the observation of certain wildlife cannot be guaranteed. They vary from day to day, making each PONANT cruise a unique experience. The Captain and the Expedition Leader will make every effort to ensure that your experience is as rich as possible, while complying with the safety rules and instructions imposed by the IAATO. Any disembarkation on the Subantarctic Islands is subject to weather conditions and on obtaining the authorisation of the local authorities. To preserve the wild environment of these islands, the number of visitors is in fact strictly controlled. Wherever possible, we will run Zodiac excursions around their shorelines in order to guarantee the best possible experience for all guests if it is not possible to disembark.</em></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">From sea to sea, or from continent to continent, <strong>PONANT</strong> welcomes you aboard its ships for a <strong>Sea Journey</strong>. A few times a year we invite sea lovers, dreamers, and keen observers of endless horizons to join our non-stop journeys, to enjoy the comfort of our ships for an extended period and share the daily lives of our crew.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">As the days go by, you can admire the waves from the upper deck, keep fit in the spa and make good use of the pool or the gym, share the daily life of the crew, discover sailing techniques and instruments, and enjoy a break from the hectic pace of life.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">At the edge of the Pacific, time seems to be standing still. <strong>In Vanuatu, in the Salomon Islands and in Micronesia</strong>, ancestral cultures shape a magical universe on the water. Sail from island to island, marvelling at the power of these territories formed by the sea and fire, by song and dance, and share <strong>unique moments with the local communities</strong>. The immaculate beaches and crystal-clear lagoons reveal another spectacle: <strong>exceptional sea beds</strong>, sometimes hiding surprising vestiges, tragic witnesses of the conflicts that marked the region.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">From sea to sea, or from continent to continent, <strong>PONANT</strong> welcomes you aboard its ships for a <strong>Sea Journey</strong>. A few times a year we invite sea lovers, dreamers, and keen observers of endless horizons to join our non-stop journeys, to enjoy the comfort of our ships for an extended period and share the daily lives of our crew.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">As the days go by, you can admire the waves from the upper deck, keep fit in the spa and make good use of the pool or the gym, share the daily life of the crew, discover sailing techniques and instruments, and enjoy a break from the hectic pace of life.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Discover traditional Japan, forged by millennia of traditions, where nature and the sacred become one. Among the trade winds, the dreamlike landscapes of lush green hills, mystical mountains and ancestral temples nestling in preserved nature will fill you with wonder. <strong>Toba, Shingu, Himeji, Miyajima</strong>… the historic cities reveal their imperial secrets throughout the different ports of call, while Zen gardens and peaceful temples celebrate Shinto heritage. This journey into the heart of the Japanese soul will also immerse you in the moving history of <strong>Nagasaki and Hiroshima</strong>, which are now some of Japan’s most relaxed and fascinating destinations. </p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.</em></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Set sail with PONANT aboard <em>Le Soléal </em>for a <strong>9-day cruise</strong> to discover the many traditions and emblematic sites of the <strong>Land of the Rising Sun</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your voyage begins in <strong>Busan, South Korea</strong>. Busan offers a range of experiences during a full day of exploration after an overnight in port: <strong>Haedong Yonggungsa Temple,</strong> built in 1376 overlooking the sea; the <strong>Busan Museum of Art,</strong> featuring an outdoor sculpture garden as well as exhibits of contemporary Korean artists; <strong>Gyeongju Historic Areas</strong>, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site representing the flowering of Silla culture between the 7th and 10th centuries; and a <strong>Korean Tea Ceremony</strong> at the <strong>Hongbeopsa Temple,</strong> famous for having the largest Buddha statue in Asia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Crossing the strait to <strong>Japan</strong>, the richness from which to choose is immediately apparent in<strong> Sakaiminato</strong>, where options include <strong>Matsue Castle</strong>, built entirely of pine in 1611; the <strong>Adachi Museum of Art</strong>, displaying the great masters of modern Japanese painting and sculpture; a demonstration of <strong>the ancient craft of making paper (<em>washi</em></strong><em>) </em>from tree bark; and <strong>Yushien Garden,</strong> a landscape garden in traditional style, famous for its peonies.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Soléal</em> sails on to <strong>Hagi</strong>, whose contributions to Japan’s industrialization and modernization have been honored by UNESCO. At <strong>Hagi Castle Town</strong>, walk in the steps of the samurai as you stroll its beautifully preserved streets.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Call in <strong>Moji</strong>, which enjoyed its heyday in the early 20^th century as the center for Japanese trade with China. Nearby is <strong>Kozan-ji Temple</strong>, founded in the Kamakura period and the oldest Zen style temple in Japan.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Soléal</em> sails next to <strong>Beppu</strong>, renowned for its extensive system of <strong>hot springs</strong> or <em>onsen</em>. Choose to visit Chinoike Jigoku, one of the oldest natural hot springs in Japan and unique for its deep red color due to its iron oxide content. Or opt to discover a beautiful steaming blue pond and bubbling mud pond at Kamado Jigoku, also known as "Cooking Pot Hell.”</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Then call at <strong>Miyajima</strong>, the gateway to the majestic <strong>Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, </strong>listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, whose magnificent vermillion torii gate appears to float on water. This afternoon, continue to <strong>Hiroshima</strong>, whose UNESCO World Heritage-listed <strong>Hiroshima Peace Memorial</strong> bears witness to the horrific aftermath of the world’s first atomic bomb explosion on August 6, 1945. You may also choose to visit the Saijo <strong>sake</strong> brewing district for a tasting.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your final port of call is in<strong> Tamano</strong>, a former feudal domain with a unique cultural heritage. From here you will be able to admire the famous <strong>Korakuen Garden</strong>, one of the country’s must-see landscaped gardens.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your voyage ends in <strong>Osaka</strong>, a modern city in the heart of the Japanese archipelago.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Ponant has an ideal introduction to this captivating archipelago, inviting you on a timeless journey around the fascinating and surprising Empire of the Rising Sun, where unbridled modernism and ancestral traditions form a delightful blend, where the history of the samurai rubs shoulders with the delicateness of the geisha, and where the aromas of the tea plantations intermingle with the fragrances of cherry blossom. Dive into the heart of ancestral Japan, where each port of call unveils <strong>unsuspected treasures</strong> and unique moments.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Between temples imbued with spirituality, majestic volcanic landscapes and mystical forests, nature unveils all of its splendour. Fall under the spell of the <strong>local handicrafts, the refined flavours of thousand-year-old gastronomy</strong>, and a warm welcome that is deeply rooted in tradition. Explore sites steeped in serenity, witnesses to rich and poignant history, where each detail inspires contemplation.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Embark on an unforgettable expedition to the heart of the Kimberley, one of Australia's wildest and most pristine regions. Over the course of 11 days, explore a variety of breathtakingly beautiful sites, including the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, home to numerous birds and sea turtles; <strong>Montgomery Reef</strong>, with its lagoons and immense coral reefs; the crocodile-infested mangroves of the <strong>Hunter River</strong>; and the stunning <strong>Vansittart and Swift bays</strong>. The absolute highlight of the trip will be the <strong>majestic King George Falls</strong>. Featuring waterfalls, steep gorges, savannah, crystal-clear waters and desolate mountain ranges, this adventure will transport you to one of the last unspoilt regions on Earth.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>This itinerary is given as an indication only. Based on tide times and weather conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader may need to switch the order of certain ports of call around to ensure guests have the best possible experience.</em></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Embark on an unforgettable expedition to the heart of the Kimberley, one of Australia's wildest and most pristine regions. Over the course of 11 days, explore a variety of breathtakingly beautiful sites, including the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, home to numerous birds and sea turtles; <strong>Montgomery Reef</strong>, with its lagoons and immense coral reefs; the crocodile-infested mangroves of the <strong>Hunter River</strong>; and the stunning <strong>Vansittart and Swift bays</strong>. The absolute highlight of the trip will be the <strong>majestic King George Falls</strong>. Featuring waterfalls, steep gorges, savannah, crystal-clear waters and desolate mountain ranges, this adventure will transport you to one of the last unspoilt regions on Earth.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>This itinerary is given as an indication only. Based on tide times and weather conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader may need to switch the order of certain ports of call around to ensure guests have the best possible experience.</em></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Embark on an unforgettable expedition to the heart of the Kimberley, one of Australia's wildest and most pristine regions. Over the course of 11 days, explore a variety of breathtakingly beautiful sites, including the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, home to numerous birds and sea turtles; <strong>Montgomery Reef</strong>, with its lagoons and immense coral reefs; the crocodile-infested mangroves of the <strong>Hunter River</strong>; and the stunning <strong>Vansittart and Swift bays</strong>. The absolute highlight of the trip will be the <strong>majestic King George Falls</strong>. Featuring waterfalls, steep gorges, savannah, crystal-clear waters and desolate mountain ranges, this adventure will transport you to one of the last unspoilt regions on Earth.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>This itinerary is given as an indication only. Based on tide times and weather conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader may need to switch the order of certain ports of call around to ensure guests have the best possible experience.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Explore the western coast of Australia at the pace of sovereign nature. Wild beaches, turquoise waters, isolated islets and coral reefs sketch out unique panoramas, providing veritable refuge for a multitude of species. In this end of the world, a long-standing secret, national parks, a marine park, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and strings of islands shelter rare fauna, such as sea lions or sharks. From one port of call to the next, far from the beaten path, in a Zodiac, during hikes and swims, take the pulse of this vibrant land teeming with life, marked by the stories and petroglyphs of the First Nations.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Explore the western coast of Australia at the pace of sovereign nature. Wild beaches, turquoise waters, isolated islets and coral reefs sketch out unique panoramas, providing veritable refuge for a multitude of species. In this end of the world, a long-standing secret, national parks, a marine park, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and strings of islands shelter rare fauna, such as sea lions or sharks. From one port of call to the next, far from the beaten path, in a Zodiac, during hikes and swims, take the pulse of this vibrant land teeming with life, marked by the stories and petroglyphs of the First Nations.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Embark on an unforgettable expedition to the heart of the Kimberley, one of Australia's wildest and most pristine regions. Over the course of 11 days, explore a variety of breathtakingly beautiful sites, including the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, home to numerous birds and sea turtles; <strong>Montgomery Reef</strong>, with its lagoons and immense coral reefs; the crocodile-infested mangroves of the <strong>Hunter River</strong>; and the stunning <strong>Vansittart and Swift bays</strong>. The absolute highlight of the trip will be the <strong>majestic King George Falls</strong>. Featuring waterfalls, steep gorges, savannah, crystal-clear waters and desolate mountain ranges, this adventure will transport you to one of the last unspoilt regions on Earth.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>This itinerary is given as an indication only. Based on tide times and weather conditions, the Captain and the Expedition Leader may need to switch the order of certain ports of call around to ensure guests have the best possible experience.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">From sea to sea, or from continent to continent, <strong>PONANT</strong> welcomes you aboard its ships for a <strong>Sea Journey</strong>. A few times a year we invite sea lovers, dreamers, and keen observers of endless horizons to join our non-stop journeys, to enjoy the comfort of our ships for an extended period and share the daily lives of our crew.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">As the days go by, you can admire the waves from the upper deck, keep fit in the spa and make good use of the pool or the gym, share the daily life of the crew, discover sailing techniques and instruments, and enjoy a break from the hectic pace of life.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Lands of fire, turquoise water, fascinating fauna and flora: the Indonesian archipelago is an Eden for adventure lovers. From island to island, set off in search of the <strong>mythical Komodo dragons</strong> in their natural habitat, explore the <strong>stunning underwater world of the Moluccas or Triton Bay</strong> — the epicentre of the <strong>Coral Triangle</strong>, unveiling its <strong>exceptional</strong> <strong>karst islands and marine biodiversity</strong> — and make the most of the splendid setting of the <strong>Kitikiti Waterfall</strong> to indulge in some swimming or walking. However, Indonesia is not only a natural setting: here, traditions endure and there is rich culture. Your exploration of <strong>Flores, the flower island</strong>, or the <strong>Alor Archipelago</strong> will offer you privileged encounters with the inhabitants of these distant regions, making your journey simply unforgettable.</p> <p><i>The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.</i></p>