Le Boreal

<p style="text-align: justify;">If there is one place on the globe that fires the imagination of travellers and arouses in them an instant thirst for adventure, it is the <strong>immaculate and faraway lands of the White Continent</strong>. Inhabited by a <strong>surprising endemic fauna</strong>, the Antarctic will welcome you during an <strong>11-day expedition cruise</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">At the border between the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans, you will enter <strong>Drake Passage</strong>. At the roaring fifties and the screaming sixties, the wind blows and the waves beat against the stern of the ship. In the sky,<strong> cape petrels</strong> lead you toward their realm until you reach the first of the continent’s lands.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Ice is there in all its forms. The mountainous landscapes open up to give way to huge <strong>calving glaciers</strong>, <strong>tabular icebergs</strong> drift in the middle of the Southern Ocean, and the sea ice shimmers in the distance. On board, the <strong>naturalists</strong> share with you the secrets of this <strong>unique ecosystem</strong>. As you near the shores, the first penguins appear. <strong>Gentoo</strong>, <strong>Adelie</strong>, <strong>chinstrap</strong>: these surprising birds, emblematic of the Antarctic, share their beaches with <strong>leopard</strong>, <strong>crabeater</strong> and <strong>Weddell</strong> <strong>seals</strong>. During an outing on land or at sea, in a zodiac dinghy or a kayak, you will move through a stunning scenery bathed in polar light.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and ice 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. </em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Discover the Southern Ocean as you have never seen it before! Embark on a <strong>18-day polar expedition cruise to the highest latitudes</strong>, from the <strong>Falkland Islands</strong> to <strong>South Georgia</strong> and the immaculate lands of <strong>Antarctica</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your expedition to the heart of the <strong>South Atlantic</strong> begins with the exploration of the Falkland Islands: as you sail in this archipelago of 200 islands, you will be escorted by sei whales. Composing the wild beauty of the shorelines are beaches of white sand, jagged cliffs, windswept moors and tall grass swaying with the wind.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will soon take to the seas once again, to reach the <strong>mountainous island of South Georgia</strong>. It is there, in the midst of gigantic glaciers, that <strong>Sir Ernest Shackleton</strong> miraculously ran aground during the famous Endurance Odyssey in 1916. Today, king penguins, elephant and fur seals that have taken over the black-sand beaches dominated by the tall peaks that reveal the <strong>Scotia Arc</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will ultimately land on the frozen shores of the nearly inaccessible <strong>White Continent, Antarctica</strong>. White shades take on a thousand nuances as it covers the icebergs, glaciers, mountains and frozen sea all around you. You will be one of the rare few travellers to have laid eyes on this legendary land, the theatre of the greatest expeditions and the witness of the most extraordinary adventures. Above all, you are in the <strong>realm of the penguins</strong> – Adelie, Gentoo, chinstrap – seals, whales and seabirds that accompany you on this unforgettable trip.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and ice 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. </em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Discover the Southern Ocean as you have never seen it before! Embark on <strong>a 19-day polar expedition cruise</strong> in the highest latitudes, from the <strong>Valdes Peninsula</strong> to the<strong> Falkland Islands, South Georgia</strong> and <strong>the immaculate lands of Antarctica</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You approach the frozen shores of the - almost - inaccessible White Continent, Antarctica. White shades take on a thousand nuances as it covers the icebergs, glaciers, mountains and frozen sea all around you. You will be one of the rare few travellers to have laid eyes on this legendary land, the theatre of the greatest expeditions and the witness of the most extraordinary adventures. Above all, you are in the <strong>realm of the penguins</strong> – Adelie, Gentoo, chinstrap – seals, whales and seabirds that accompany you on this unforgettable trip.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will soon take to the seas once again, to reach the <strong>mountainous island of South Georgia</strong>. It is there, in the midst of gigantic glaciers, that <strong>Sir Ernest Shackleton</strong> miraculously ran aground during the famous Endurance Odyssey in 1916. Today, king penguins, elephant and fur seals that have taken over the black-sand beaches dominated by the tall peaks that reveal the <strong>Scotia Arc</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will continue your austral exploration further north, with the discovery of the Falkland Islands. As you sail in this archipelago of 200 islands, you will be escorted by sei whales. Composing the wild beauty of the shorelines are <strong>beaches of white sand</strong>, jagged cliffs, windswept moors and tall grass swaying with the wind.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your expedition to the heart of the South Atlantic continues as you encounter the desert landscapes of Patagonia's Chubut province. Welcome to the <strong>Valdes Peninsula</strong>! This wildlife sanctuary, where the beauty of the underwater world is unmatched, also reveals numerous treasures on land. The scenery is composed of arid steppes, a rich and varied flora, and distinctive haciendas. In these unspoiled lands home to more than 180 bird species, <strong>orcas</strong> hunt young <strong>maned seals</strong> on the beaches under the watchful eye of the <strong>Magellanic penguins</strong>, as <strong>guanacos</strong> gallop across the arid plains and<strong> dusky dolphins</strong> swim around peacefully. Here, the majestic beauty of nature offers a gateway to a whole new world.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and ice 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. </em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">The mildness of summer on the waters of the <strong>Mediterranean Sea</strong> promises you an unforgettable <strong>13-day journey</strong> between Greece, Corsica and Italy. Aboard <em>Le</em> <em>Boréal</em>, fall under the spell of the Mediterranean landscapes and the ancient vestiges that will tell you a fascinating story.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, discover the monastery of Saint John and the <strong>Cave of the Apocalypse </strong>where the last book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle,<strong> from Patmos</strong>, set off from <strong>Taormina</strong> to climb the mythical Mount Etna, or admire the <strong>sumptuous archaeological sites, </strong>from the Temples of Zeus, Apollo and Athena to the Terrace of the Lions, from Delos. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab). The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Athens</strong>, your ship will set sail for <em><strong>Patmos</strong></em>. Known as “the Jerusalem of the Aegean Sea”, the island reveals itself to offer you a dazzling time between unique landscapes of white-sand beaches and rocky bays.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In the south-eastern Aegean Sea, the <strong>Cyclades</strong> archipelago invites you to enjoy the wild and appealing beauty of its islands. <strong>Delos</strong>, a veritable open-air museum, offers a unique testimony of the succession of different civilisations during the Aegean period. <em>Le Boréal</em> will then head towards <strong>Paros</strong>. Nestling in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, this island reputed for its sublime white marble offers a real concentration of Greek beauty, from whitewashed houses to olive groves to ancient monuments. On <strong>Milos</strong>, the limestone cliffs and small hidden coves are yours to discover in a soothing atmosphere.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The Peloponnese and <strong>Nafplio</strong> - the starting point to discover the Epidaurus theater and the site of Mycenae, both classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites - beckon you, preceding the exploration of the island of <strong>Hydra</strong>, famous for its incomparable light and the tranquility of its streets where all car traffic is banned.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will cross the emblematic <strong>Corinth</strong> <strong>Canal</strong> to arrive in picturesque <strong>Galaxidi</strong>. You will fall in love with the authentic character of this town, encircled by captivating arid mountains and a sea front of unrivalled beauty, with its paved little streets edged with former neo-classical residences, remnants of the naval era, and sumptuous religious buildings.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">It will now be time to set sail towards Italy. <strong>Taormina</strong>, overlooking Etna’s blanket of snow. Its streets will lead you to its famed ancient Greek theatre, where the quality of the acoustics is exceptional. After a timeless moment at sea, you sail further north to <strong>Gaeta</strong>. Clinging to the cliffs facing the Tyrrhenian Sea, the ancient city with its narrow streets redolent of a fascinating past will captivate you with its many architectural treasures, like the cathedral, an elegant Romanesque and Moorish building with ceramic decoration.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will then stop at <strong>Porto Santo Stefano</strong>, a town built along a hillside and surrounded by a 17th century fortress.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Next, the Cap Corse peninsula reveals itself a little further south. You set sail for <strong>Calvi</strong> in the heart of the Balagne region. Between steep peaks and sublime beaches with turquoise waters, experience a wild and authentic Corsica.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your cruise ends in <strong>Nice</strong>, capital of the French Riviera.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Watch the time stretch out in the shade of old stones steeped in the myths of yesteryear, and relax along the turquoise waters, lulled by the lapping of the waves and the heady perfumes of sun-drenched nature: from Nice to Venice, PONANT invites you on an unforgettable journey, to encounter the treasures of the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic coasts. For 13 days, aboard <em>Le Boréal</em>, between idyllic landscapes and suspended fortresses, golden beaches and insular villages, discover this solar and discreet way of life, which lends prestige to the Mediterranean.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, discover the Greco-Roman theatre of Taormina and its spectacular views over Mount Etna; stroll the small streets of Lecce, the baroque pearl of the Puglia region from Gallipoli; or savour traditional Croatian cuisine in a family farm in <strong>Dubrovnik</strong>. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Nice</strong>, you will sail towards <strong>Calvi, </strong>in the heart of the Balagne region. Between steep peaks and sublime beaches with turquoise waters, you will experience a wild and authentic Corsica.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Le Boréal will then head towards Bonifacio, a gem in the far south of Corsica. A veritable fortress sculpted by the wind and sea spray, the “sentinel city” will reveal its historical centre and its long-cobbled streets.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A little further south, you will discover the Aeolian islands, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.<strong> Lipari</strong> is the capital of the Aeolian volcanic archipelago and is renowned for its many natural and architectural gems.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will set sail again, this time to discover Sicily. In <strong>Taormina</strong>, at the foot of Etna’s everlasting snow, fall under the spell of the picturesque city centre with cobbled streets leading to the city’s impressive ancient theatre boasting exceptional acoustics.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In <strong>Puglia</strong>, <strong>Gallipoli</strong>, meaning “beautiful town” in Greek, reveals its Hellenic origins and offers up its singular atmosphere, where life is good.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will then head to the aptly named “Pearl of the Adriatic”, <strong>Dubrovnik</strong>, a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage site</strong>. Surrounded by medieval ramparts, its terracotta-tiled roofs, its palaces, cloisters and fountains are bound to impress you and will plunge you into the heart of Croatian history.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Split</strong> will open its doors to you to discover its historic centre, a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site</strong>, with treasures such as <strong>Diocletian</strong>'s <strong>Palace </strong>or the <strong>Cathedral of Saint Domnius</strong>. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Boréal</em> will then call at<strong> Rovinj</strong>, in Istria. A stroll along the cobbled streets of the Old Town reveals an architecture with Venetian influences, enhanced by the radiant beauty of the Adriatic Sea.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The Slovenian shores will await you in <strong>Piran</strong>, a medieval town extending out into the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic. Its architecture, influenced by five centuries under the rule of the Republic of Venice, affords it a singular charm.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">As a grand finale, Venice the Serenissima, which is home, among other sites, to the mythical St Mark’s Square or the sumptuous Doge’s Palace, will mark the end of this enchanted moment.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Majestic volcanoes, fertile valleys, iconic ancient sites, and enchanting islands… Set off to discover the gems of Sicily, the shores of Malta, and the Amalfi Coast. Over the course of this 10-day journey, <em>Le Boréal</em> will take you to the crossroads of Eastern and Western civilizations, unveiling legendary sites. Along these sun-drenched shores, historic cities will open the doors to their ancient treasures and reveal their age-old secrets, while the untamed beauty of the Mediterranean coastline will showcase its full splendor.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will begin your cruise in <strong>Valletta</strong>. This capital, a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site</strong>, is home to many historical sites: St John's Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and the churches of Our Lady of Victory, Saint Catherine and il Gesù.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Setting sail from Malta, your next stop is <strong>Porto Empedocle,</strong> gateway to the fabled Greek temples of <strong>Agrigento,</strong> among the most captivating ruins in the entire Mediterranean.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Then you will head towards Trapani. 750 metres (2,460 feet) up, perched on a high triangular plateau sloping down to the sea, this medieval city is a labyrinth of polished, paved narrow streets and alleyways with superb views over the Aegadian Islands and the valley.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A cultural jewel of <strong>Sicily</strong>, <strong>Palermo </strong>is a splendid witness to three thousand years of history where you will be able to visit emblematic landmarks such as the <strong>12th-century cathedral</strong> and <strong>Teatro Massimo</strong>, one of the largest theatres in Europe.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A little further north, you will discover the Aeolian islands. <strong>Lipari</strong> is the capital of the Aeolian volcanic archipelago and is renowned for its many natural and architectural gems.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Then, sail in front of <strong>Stromboli</strong>, an active volcano whose crater regularly erupts with lava flows.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will then head for the <strong>Amalfi Coast</strong>, the jewel of Southern Italy, where you will visit <strong>Salerno</strong>, a superb little town particularly renowned for its <em>Duomo</em>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Boréal</em> will set sail north-east, to the tip of the Italian boot, for <strong>Reggio de Calabre</strong>. Fall under the spell of the fragrance of bergamot, the citrus fruit that dominates the region, in this charming city with its Art Nouveau and Belle Époque influences, as well as the outstanding panoramas provided by the <em>lungomare</em>, the sea front promenade, of the Sicilian coastline and Etna.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will take the sea to discover <strong>Taormina</strong>, overlooking <strong>Etna</strong>’s blanket of snow. Its streets will lead you to its famed <strong>ancient Greek theatre</strong>, where the quality of the acoustics is exceptional.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Then, you will set sail for <strong>Syracuse</strong>, one of the most prestigious Sicilian cities, whose monuments are listed as a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your cruise will come to an end in <strong>Valletta</strong>, former stronghold of the Knights of the Order of Malta.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>With featured guest Cindy Miller Hopkins, American Photo Ambassador.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Discover the Southern Ocean as you have never seen it before! Discover the Southern Ocean as you have never seen it before! Embark on a 19-day polar expedition cruise in the highest latitudes, from the Valdes Peninsula to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the immaculate lands of Antarctica.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your expedition into the heart of the South Atlantic begins before the barren landscapes of the Chubut province, in Patagonia. Welcome to the <strong>Valdes Peninsula</strong>! This wildlife sanctuary, where the beauty of the underwater world is unmatched, also reveals numerous treasures on land. The scenery is composed of arid steppes, a rich and varied flora, and distinctive haciendas. In these unspoiled lands home to more than 180 bird species, <strong>orcas</strong> hunt young <strong>maned seals</strong> on the beaches under the watchful eye of the <strong>Magellanic penguins</strong>, as <strong>guanacos</strong> gallop across the arid plains and<strong> dusky dolphins</strong> swim around peacefully. Here, the majestic beauty of nature offers a gateway to a whole new world.Welcome to the <strong>Valdes Peninsula</strong>! This wildlife sanctuary, where the beauty of the underwater world is unmatched, also reveals numerous treasures on land. The scenery is composed of arid steppes, a rich and varied flora, and distinctive haciendas. In these unspoiled lands home to more than 180 bird species, <strong>orcas</strong> hunt young <strong>maned seals</strong> on the beaches under the watchful eye of the <strong>Magellanic penguins</strong>, as <strong>guanacos</strong> gallop across the arid plains and<strong> dusky dolphins</strong> swim around peacefully. Here, the majestic beauty of nature offers a gateway to a whole new world.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will continue your austral exploration further south, with the discovery of the Falkland Islands. As you sail in this archipelago of 200 islands, you will be escorted by sei whales. Composing the wild beauty of the shorelines are beaches of white sand, jagged cliffs, windswept moors and tall grass swaying with the wind.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will soon take to the seas once again, to reach the <strong>mountainous island of South Georgia</strong>. It is there, in the midst of gigantic glaciers, that <strong>Sir Ernest Shackleton</strong> miraculously ran aground during the famous Endurance Odyssey in 1916. Today, king penguins, elephant and fur seals that have taken over the black-sand beaches dominated by the tall peaks that reveal the <strong>Scotia Arc</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will ultimately land on the frozen shores of the nearly inaccessible <strong>White Continent, Antarctica</strong>. White shades take on a thousand nuances as it covers the icebergs, glaciers, mountains and frozen sea all around you. You will be one of the rare few travellers to have laid eyes on this legendary land, the theatre of the greatest expeditions and the witness of the most extraordinary adventures. Above all, you are in the <strong>realm of the penguins</strong> – Adelie, Gentoo, chinstrap – seals, whales and seabirds that accompany you on this unforgettable trip.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and ice 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. </em></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Cruise the heart of the Atlantic to discover breathtaking wild landscapes, fascinating historic cities and vibrant traditions. From the <strong>volcanic archipelagos of the Canaries and Madeira to the coast of Morocco</strong>, each port of call reveals sublime landscapes of majestic volcanoes, secluded coves, green cliffs and pine and laurel forests. In these sun-drenched lands, <strong>colourful houses, opulent palaces, bustling souks and lively squares recall a fascinating history of multicultural influences</strong> and invite travellers to enjoy unforgettable carefree moments.</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;">This cruise from the Atlantic Coast of North Africa to the Spanish Mediterranean provides a relaxed and engaging experience of both the rich history and vibrant contemporary culture of the region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From storied <strong>Casablanca</strong>, Morocco, sail first for Tangier. During two full days in <strong>Tangier, </strong>you can visit the <strong>American Legation</strong>, the oldest U.S. diplomatic mission in the world, and you may travel across the Rif Mountains to the showcase of Moroccan handicrafts at the <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tetouan</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Next you will spend a full day in and around <strong>Malaga</strong>, Spain, the gateway to Andalusia and to the legendary <strong>Costa del Sol</strong>. One highlight of your time here is sure to be your journey to <strong>Granada</strong>, including lunch and a tour of the incomparable <strong>Alhambra</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Marbella</strong>, you may travel to the picturesque town of <strong>Ronda</strong>, a center of bullfighting, or you may stay in Marbella to stroll the <em>Avenida del Mar,</em> decorated with ten sculptures by Dali<strong>.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Next discover <strong>Cádiz</strong>, one of the country’s oldest cities. This call will allow for a visit to the superb palace of the <strong>Alcázar</strong> in <strong>Seville</strong>, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or stay in town to attend a performance of <strong>flamenco</strong> at a local tavern.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Portimao</strong> is your gateway to Portugal’s Algarve and to the villages of Silves and Monchique. <strong>Silves</strong> is a typical Algarve village of cobblestoned streets lined with white houses of Moorish/Arab design. It is also home to <strong>Castillo de Silves,</strong> the best-preserved castle in the region, offering panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside. Like Silves, <strong>Monchique</strong> is a village of cobbled lanes lined with shops selling local handicrafts. It is best known for <strong>Caldas de Monchique</strong>, hot springs famous since antiquity for their healing waters.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your voyage will end in <strong>Lisbon</strong>, Portugal’s capital. Lisbon boasts two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the<strong> Jerónimos Monastery </strong>and the <strong>Belém Tower</strong>. Choose to extend your stay and enjoy strolling through the streets of this city of seven hills, soaking up the local zest for life.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>From the Gironde to the shores of Portugal</strong>, explore the many facets of the Atlantic coast and join the dance on this unique cruise. Organised in partnership with<strong> the Paris Opera Ballet</strong>, it features <strong>a prima ballerina </strong>as special guest,<strong> accompanied by five of the company’s dancers.</strong> You will discover <strong>the treasures of these lands brimming with history</strong>, including fortified towns, fishing ports, maritime traditions and architectural gems. Your journey will be punctuated by stage performances at sea and on land, ballet classes, dance conferences and fascinating discussions. On this enchanting voyage, <strong>dance and heritage will intermingle</strong> harmoniously to offer you <strong>an unforgettable cultural and artistic experience</strong>.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Experience the rare luxury of having all the time in the world, during a summer holiday on the Atlantic coast. Whether during a stopover or an overnight stay, enjoy the fresh air and take a stroll through the narrow streets brimming with history, explore the green landscapes on foot or by bike, and marvel at art collections housed in boldly designed museums. Between unspoilt coastlines, iconic pilgrimage sites, and towns full of character, such as Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Santander and A Coruña, time stands still to celebrate the art of living, good food, history and the beauty of the Gascon and Iberian horizons. From the Basque Country to Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia, and on to Portugal, summer will unfold slowly, punctuated by cultural discoveries and outdoor activities along the legendary Santiago de Compostela trails.</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;">Beneath the dazzling skies of the Iberian Peninsula, set off on a <strong>gastronomic journey</strong> during which each shore will reveal its own light, aromas and traditions. With the <strong>exceptional presence of a chef</strong> from one of <strong>Alain Ducasse’s </strong>restaurants, you will sail between fluvial valleys and Andalucian plains. Here, nature meets history in diverse landscapes. The towns reveal <strong>rich heritage, evidence of Moorish, Christian and Roman influences</strong>: fortresses, cathedrals, palaces and historic districts all tell the legends of these successive civilisations. The golden coastlines offer relaxation and discovery, with their <strong>lively ports and sun-drenched beaches</strong>. Everywhere, <strong>the cultural and natural heritages </strong>emerges with strength and authenticity, making this journey a veritable immersion into the history and scenery of the Iberian Peninsula.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Between <strong>Catalonia and the French Riviera</strong>, the Mediterranean coastline unfolds like a living and breathing painting in which the light enhances the shores punctuated with secret coves and stunning beaches. From the <strong>vineyards of Languedoc to the craggy calanques of Provence</strong>, fall under the spell of these stone villages with shaded little streets, these ports nestling between pine trees and olive trees, these markets where the fragrance of citrus fruits blends with the scent of the sea. In the spring, away from the hustle and bustle of summer, the <strong>Côte d’Azur</strong>, bathed in sun, will reveal its discreet glamour and timeless elegance. Then <strong>Corsica</strong> will appear on the horizon, with its mountains and coves, its dense forests and wild calanques, all invitations to discovery and contemplation.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Enjoy <strong>the gentle Mediterranean spring</strong> during this break between the <strong>Côte d’Azur, the Italian Riviera, the island of Elba and Corsica</strong>: an itinerary combining glamour, nature and traditions.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On these shores, you will discover a refined way of life between pretty ports, lively markets and sunny terraces. <strong>Monaco</strong>, a setting of luxury and prestige where the jet-set rubs shoulders with princely history, will appeal to you with its unique atmosphere, while <strong>Portofino</strong>, a small jewel of the Italian Riviera, will plunge you into the Italian <i>dolce vita</i>. Throughout this journey, the <strong>Mediterranean</strong> will reveal vibrant landscapes clinging to the turquoise waters: cliffs sculpted by the wind, golden beaches, secret coves, brightly-coloured cliffside villages, groves of centuries-old olive trees... An elegant and restorative interlude, in the heart of the Mediterranean.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set off to discover the legendary shores of <strong>Italy</strong>, along the Adriatic, <strong>Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas,</strong> via Sicily and with a break at the <strong>Croatian island pearl of Hvar</strong>. At sea, <strong>spectacular landscapes</strong> unfold between the deep blue sea, lush hills, secret coves and cliffside villages. Each port of call reveals a facet of this mythical land, at the crossroads of multiple influences: ancient sites bearing witness to a glorious past, treasures of Baroque and Renaissance architecture, sunny squares inviting you to partake in <i>la dolce vita</i>, local flavours... A unique journey featuring a harmonious blend of <strong>thousand-year history, living traditions and Mediterranean panoramas</strong> of rare beauty.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set off to discover the legendary shores of <strong>Italy</strong>, along the Adriatic, <strong>Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas,</strong> via Sicily and with a break at the <strong>Croatian island pearl of Hvar</strong>. At sea, <strong>spectacular landscapes</strong> unfold between the deep blue sea, lush hills, secret coves and cliffside villages. Each port of call reveals a facet of this mythical land, at the crossroads of multiple influences: ancient sites bearing witness to a glorious past, treasures of Baroque and Renaissance architecture, sunny squares inviting you to partake in <i>la dolce vita</i>, local flavours... A unique journey featuring a harmonious blend of <strong>thousand-year history, living traditions and Mediterranean panoramas</strong> of rare beauty.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Fall under the spell of <strong>the treasures of Sicily,</strong> an island with a thousand faces, and get a taste of its gentle insular way of life in late spring. Steep cliffs, turquoise waters, golden beaches, verdant hills, lands sculpted by olive groves and vineyards form stunning landscapes. <strong>Lipari</strong> rises out of the waves like volcanic pearls while <strong>Mount Etna</strong> dominates the Ionian Sea with its majestic silhouette. From one port of call to the next, ancient sites, cathedrals and palaces all tell an age-old history. An <strong>unforgettable escapade, featuring nature and culture</strong>, promising wonderment in the heart of the Mediterranean.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Majestic volcanoes, fertile valleys, iconic ancient sites, and enchanting islands… <strong>Leaving from Valletta</strong>, the Maltese capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set off to explore the <strong>jewels of Sicily and the Calabrian coastlines</strong>, during a journey that will take you to <strong>discover mythical sites at the crossroads of eastern and western civilisations</strong>. On these sun-kissed shores, <strong>towns brimming with history</strong> will open the doors to their <strong>heritage treasures</strong> between ancient sites, architectural jewels and age-old traditions, while the <strong>unaltered raw beauty of the Mediterranean coasts</strong> reveals its full grandeur.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">During a unique journey between <strong>Malta and the Côte d’Azur</strong>, fall under the spell of the Mediterranean coastlines, where the light envelops the islands and caresses the shores. <strong>On the Sicilian coast</strong>, Syracuse whispers ancient legends, Taormina lights up under the calm gaze of Etna, and Palermo rolls out its colourful markets and baroque palaces. <strong>In the Aeolian Islands archipelago</strong>, Lipari seems to float between the sky and the sea, and majestic <strong>Stromboli </strong>watches over the horizon like a lighthouse. Portoferraio, between <strong>lush hills and coves of turquoise water</strong>, reveals all of Elba’s beauty, with the sea meeting the land in a unique landscape. Calvi, in the north of the <strong>Isle of Beauty</strong>, stands with its citadel facing the infinite, bathed by the deep blue of the Mediterranean.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Fall under the spell of <strong>the enchanted shores of Corsica, Spain and its island jewels: Ibiza and Menorca.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will discover the <strong>preserved landscapes of the Isle of Beauty and the Balearic Islands </strong>enhanced by the deep blue of the <strong>Mediterranean Sea,</strong> featuring jagged coastlines topped with citadels, secret coves with turquoise water, pine forests overlooking the sea and small ports bathed in light. The <strong>discreet beauty</strong> and the well-kept <strong>heritage</strong> <strong>treasures</strong> of the<strong> Costa del Azahar</strong> and the <strong>Costa Cálida </strong>will transport you into the heart of villages of whitewashed houses, ancient cities, lively little squares and shaded little streets edged with bougainvillea, all inviting you to stroll around and discover them. An unforgettable journey <strong>featuring nature and heritage</strong>, where the <strong>gentle Mediterranean lifestyle</strong> is savoured every moment.</p>