Le Champlain

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set off a cruise discovering <strong>ancient Mediterranean cities. From the Peloponnese to Sicily</strong>, each port of call will reveal grandiose heritage: <strong>Epidaurus and Mycenae, ancient jewels, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites; Monemvasia, a fortified city rising from the waves; Heraklion, guardian of Minoan mysteries; or Gythio, seaport of Ancient Sparta</strong>. They will all immerse you in the myths of the Mediterranean Sea. Corfu will then unveil its Venetian influences, the premise for your Italian ports of call. Between palaces and the fragrance of citrus fruits, discover <strong>Puglia and Gallipoli,</strong> meaning “beautiful city” in Greek, and <strong>Syracuse</strong>, with its labyrinth of small streets punctuated with churches and ancient vestiges, celebrating the soul of Sicily.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">In the mild and bright mid-autumn, the <strong>Mediterranean</strong> is adorned with golden tones and light caresses its <strong>ancient shores</strong>. Light breezes carry the whispers of civilisations past as the sun kisses the gentle waves, giving them a soothing glow. <strong>Between Malta, Italy, Tunisia, Algeria and Spain</strong>, sail this legendary sea of exchanges and cultures on a gastronomic voyage organised in partnership with <strong>Relais & Châteaux and with special guest Chef Clint Grech</strong>, who will be sharing his expertise and passion to offer you a unique culinary experience. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the Mediterranean and succumb to the magic of its unique landscapes and historic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Experience a cruise where every moment is a journey through <strong>history, culture and natural beauty</strong>. Take in the spellbinding atmosphere of <strong>ancient cities</strong> where time seems to stand still, and marvel at the <strong>remains of a glorious past</strong>, including majestic temples, ruins from antiquity and World Heritage-listed buildings. Discover <strong>breathtaking landscapes</strong> where the deep blue of the sea meets the golden tones of the Mediterranean coast, and enjoy the tranquillity of places steeped in charm and elegance.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Majestic volcanoes, lush green valleys, and cities with diverse heritages </strong>set the scene for this cultural journey with <strong>Franck Ferrand</strong>, between the Moroccan coast and the Spanish and Portuguese shores. From <strong>Tangier to Casablanca</strong>, from Madeira to the Canary Islands, immerse yourself in the heart of vibrant cities and discover their <strong>souks, squares, arcades, alleyways and bustling markets</strong>. Inland, the spectacle of lava landscapes on the enigmatic Lanzarote, the lunar island of fire, or in the heart of <strong>the Laurisilva of Madeira</strong>, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites tranquillity.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Embark on an extraordinary journey to <strong>the volcanic archipelagos of the Canaries and Cape Verde</strong>, a blend of untamed nature and exceptional cultural heritage. Mythical volcanoes, lunar landscapes, lush valleys, secret coves... These volcanic lands are home to contrasting, breathtaking panoramas and unspoilt national parks that invite exploration. From <strong>vibrant Lanzarote </strong>to <strong>enchanting Praia</strong>, each port of call will immerse you in the unique atmosphere of the island’s towns, where colourful markets mingle with colonial architectural treasures, revealing a fascinating history of European and African influences.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">In the little-known reaches of the Atlantic, off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, where the infinite blue of the ocean meets the lush green of the islands, lies a rare jewel: the Bissagos Islands. Now a <strong>UNESCO Biosphere Reserve</strong>, this is one of the best preserved archipelagos in the world. It comprises 88 islands, most of which are uninhabited. In many parts, this environment is <strong>still completely untouched by man</strong>, so these islands offer the chance of a unique and authentic experience to the few visitors who explore them. On this unique voyage, discover some of these mysterious islands, lands of ancient civilisations and a refuge for many species.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">In the little-known reaches of the Atlantic, off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, where the infinite blue of the ocean meets the lush green of the islands, lies a rare jewel: the Bissagos Islands. Now a <strong>UNESCO Biosphere Reserve</strong>, this is one of the best preserved archipelagos in the world. It comprises 88 islands, most of which are uninhabited. In many parts, this environment is <strong>still completely untouched by man</strong>, so these islands offer the chance of a unique and authentic experience to the few visitors who explore them. On this unique voyage, discover some of these mysterious islands, lands of ancient civilisations and a refuge for many species.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">In the little-known reaches of the Atlantic, off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, where the infinite blue of the ocean meets the lush green of the islands, lies a rare jewel: the Bissagos Islands. Now a <strong>UNESCO Biosphere Reserve</strong>, this is one of the best preserved archipelagos in the world. It comprises 88 islands, most of which are uninhabited. In many parts, this environment is <strong>still completely untouched by man</strong>, so these islands offer the chance of a unique and authentic experience to the few visitors who explore them. On this unique voyage, discover some of these mysterious islands, lands of ancient civilisations and a refuge for many species.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Embark on an extraordinary journey to <strong>the volcanic archipelagos of Cape Verde and the Canaries</strong>, a blend of untamed nature and exceptional cultural heritage. Mythical volcanoes, lunar landscapes, lush valleys, secret coves... These volcanic lands are home to contrasting, breathtaking panoramas and unspoilt national parks that invite exploration. From <strong>captivating Praia</strong> to <strong>vibrant Lanzarote</strong>, each port of call will immerse you in the unique atmosphere of the island’s towns, where colourful markets mingle with colonial architectural treasures, revealing a fascinating history of European and African influences.</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;">Set off on a unique journey at the crossroads of history, modernity and wild nature, <strong>along the shores of the North Sea and the Norwegian Sea</strong>, and cross the <strong>mythical Arctic Circle</strong>. At each port of call from <strong>Brest to Tromsø</strong>, the cities will reveal their cultural and architectural treasures, as well as the unique history that shaped them. The Norwegian coast will offer up its marvellous landscapes, a jagged coastline where the fjords are emerging from their winter coast to join the sea, and superb sailing experiences amidst narrow passages, where the history of the Vikings seems ubiquitous.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">From Tromsø, the gateway to the Arctic, to the wild landscapes of Scotland, this journey will take shape along magical fjords, jagged cliffs and windswept moors. In the north, the Lofoten Islands reveal their spectacular scenery, their colourful villages and steel-coloured waters. Further south, the Norwegian shores unveil their raw nature, punctuated by forests, fjords sheltering ancient glaciers and cities steeped in history. Next are the Orkney and Skye archipelagos, these Celtic lands with their strong insular character, before you head for Scotland’s western coast, with its mysterious lochs and misty mountains.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">The Hebrides, in the north west of Scotland, offer a singular journey between the sea and the sky into a world that has remained fiercely authentic. Sheer cliffs, deep lochs and windswept moors form a landscape draped in mystery. Megalithic and religious sites rise up out of the fog, while ancient mountains watch over the fishing ports and isolated hamlets. <br />Along sleepy lochs, the typical cottages and captivating gardens serve as reminders that the harshness of the region does stop it from being poetic, while the bird colonies populating the cliffs eroded by the ocean reveal the most important thing: nature reigns supreme here.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">The Hebrides, in the north west of Scotland, offer a singular journey between the sea and the sky into a world that has remained fiercely authentic. Sheer cliffs, deep lochs and windswept moors form a landscape draped in mystery. Megalithic and religious sites rise up out of the fog, while ancient mountains watch over the fishing ports and isolated hamlets. <br />Along sleepy lochs, the typical cottages and captivating gardens serve as reminders that the harshness of the region does stop it from being poetic, while the bird colonies populating the cliffs eroded by the ocean reveal the most important thing: nature reigns supreme here.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">The Hebrides, in the north west of Scotland, offer a singular journey between the sea and the sky into a world that has remained fiercely authentic. Sheer cliffs, deep lochs and windswept moors form a landscape draped in mystery. Megalithic and religious sites rise up out of the fog, while ancient mountains watch over the fishing ports and isolated hamlets. <br />Along sleepy lochs, the typical cottages and captivating gardens serve as reminders that the harshness of the region does stop it from being poetic, while the bird colonies populating the cliffs eroded by the ocean reveal the most important thing: nature reigns supreme here.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set off a bewitching cruise between <strong>Celtic and Scandinavian lands,</strong> where wild nature and ancient heritage come together. From one port of call to the next, the jagged coasts of <strong>Scotland</strong> and the <strong>peaceful Nordic coastlines,</strong> bathed in light that is popular with painters, will reveal their unique history. You will discover mysterious megaliths, valleys sculpted by ancient volcanos and <strong>Scandinavian cities steeped in history,</strong> veritable open-air museums. During this interlude combining raw nature, legends and living culture, you will experience the tranquillity of isolated coasts, the warmth of small ports and the authenticity of preserved traditions.</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;">Join PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys for an extraordinary 8-day voyage through the <strong>Baltic Sea</strong> featuring a specially arranged, <strong>exclusive presentation and discussion aboard</strong> with former President of Poland and Nobel Peace Prize-laureate <strong>Lech Wa??sa</strong> while in Gdansk, Poland.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The <strong>Baltic Sea</strong> has been a thoroughfare of trade since the days of the Vikings. We will visit the great cities that ring its shores and experience a comingling of cosmopolitan life with centuries of rich history.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Begin in dynamic <strong>Helsinki</strong>. Located on a peninsula surrounded by almost 300 islands, the vibrant capital of Finland will charm you with its Art Nouveau architecture.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Champlain</em> sails first to <strong>Tallinn</strong>, an important hub for the Hanseatic League in the Baltic Sea around the 13th century. Its Old Town is a UNESCO Heritage Site and retains remarkably well-preserved ramparts, public buildings, merchant houses, and warehouses.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You call next in cosmopolitan <strong>Stockholm</strong>, whose lively Gamla Stan (old town) located on a compact island showcases narrow cobblestone streets lined with 17^th- and 18^th-century buildings, including the Royal Palace.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On Gotland—the largest island in the Baltic Sea—you stop at the beautifully preserved medieval town of <strong>Visby</strong>, once a stronghold of the Hanseatic League.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Klaipeda</strong> is your gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Curonian Peninsula and an opportunity to learn the traditional art of beekeeping or to immerse yourself in the local food and folklore of Lithuania.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You sail next to<strong> Gdansk</strong>, a city with a 1000 year history whose shipyard served as the birthplace of the Solidarity Trade Union in 1980. The wave of dissent arising from the Solidarity movement helped lead to Polish independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Call at the small Danish island of<strong> Bornholm</strong>, whose lush farmland and rich herring fisheries share the land with the ruins of a medieval fortress and four of the ancient round churches for which Denmark is noted.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">End in sophisticated<strong> Copenhagen</strong>, which displays 800 years of royal history at the stunning Christiansborg Palace, once home to kings and queens and now home to the Danish Parliament.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Along the<strong> North Sea and the Norwegian Sea</strong>, set off to discover the <strong>Scandinavian coastlines</strong>, where bewitching nature and cultural heritage interlace. On your journey, <strong>Danish historic cities and fishing ports</strong> will make way for the <strong>dense forests</strong>, then the <strong>unspoiled and grandiose landscapes of the Norwegian fjords, </strong>perfect for contemplation. A highlight will be the mythical <strong>Geiranger</strong>, a legendary fjord that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On shore, history engages with the splendour of the panoramas, offering a fascinating journey into the heart of <strong>Viking heritage</strong>, <strong>maritime traditions</strong> and <strong>cities possessing exceptional cultural and natural legacy.</strong></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">In Norway, nature has shaped its most majestic masterpieces. Carried by the sea spray, you will sail into Viking legends and past villages of colourful wood, and contemplate the brute force of ancient landscapes, such as <strong>Geirangerfjord</strong> and its roaring waterfalls, or <strong>Lysefjorden and its mythical Preikestolen</strong>, a vertiginous granite pulpit that eternally defies the void.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On shore, the country’s history engages with the grandeur of the panoramas: <strong>Skudeneshavn’s Old Town</strong>, <strong>Ålesund’s Art Nouveau heritage</strong>, <strong>Bergen’s Hanseatic district</strong>, etc. Discover the sovereign soul of Norway’s fjords between the cultural heritage and lush valleys.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">In Norway, nature has shaped its most majestic masterpieces. Carried by the sea spray, you will sail into Viking legends and past villages of colourful wood, and contemplate the brute force of ancient landscapes, such as <strong>Geirangerfjord</strong> and its roaring waterfalls, or <strong>Lysefjorden and its mythical Preikestolen</strong>, a vertiginous granite pulpit that eternally defies the void.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On shore, the country’s history engages with the grandeur of the panoramas: <strong>Skudeneshavn’s Old Town</strong>, <strong>Ålesund’s Art Nouveau heritage</strong>, <strong>Bergen’s Hanseatic district</strong>, etc. Discover the sovereign soul of Norway’s fjords between the cultural heritage and lush valleys.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">In Norway, nature has shaped its most majestic masterpieces. Carried by the sea spray, you will sail into Viking legends and past villages of colourful wood, and contemplate the brute force of ancient landscapes, such as <strong>Geirangerfjord</strong> and its roaring waterfalls, or <strong>Lysefjorden and its mythical Preikestolen</strong>, a vertiginous granite pulpit that eternally defies the void.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On shore, the country’s history engages with the grandeur of the panoramas: <strong>Skudeneshavn’s Old Town</strong>, <strong>Ålesund’s Art Nouveau heritage</strong>, <strong>Bergen’s Hanseatic district</strong>, etc. Discover the sovereign soul of Norway’s fjords between the cultural heritage and lush valleys.</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;">Join PONANT and Smithsonian Journeys for an extraordinary 8-day voyage through the <strong>Baltic Sea</strong> featuring a specially arranged, <strong>exclusive presentation and discussion aboard</strong> with former President of Poland and Nobel Peace Prize-laureate <strong>Lech Wa??sa</strong> while in Gdansk, Poland.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The <strong>Baltic Sea</strong> has been a thoroughfare of trade since the days of the Vikings. We will visit the great cities that ring its shores and experience a comingling of cosmopolitan life with centuries of rich history.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Begin in dynamic <strong>Helsinki</strong>. Located on a peninsula surrounded by almost 300 islands, the vibrant capital of Finland will charm you with its Art Nouveau architecture.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Champlain</em> sails first to <strong>Tallinn</strong>, an important hub for the Hanseatic League in the Baltic Sea around the 13th century. Its Old Town is a UNESCO Heritage Site and retains remarkably well-preserved ramparts, public buildings, merchant houses, and warehouses.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You call next in cosmopolitan <strong>Stockholm</strong>, whose lively Gamla Stan (old town) located on a compact island showcases narrow cobblestone streets lined with 17^th- and 18^th-century buildings, including the Royal Palace.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On Gotland—the largest island in the Baltic Sea—you stop at the beautifully preserved medieval town of <strong>Visby</strong>, once a stronghold of the Hanseatic League.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Klaipeda</strong> is your gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Curonian Peninsula and an opportunity to learn the traditional art of beekeeping or to immerse yourself in the local food and folklore of Lithuania.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You sail next to<strong> Gdansk</strong>, a city with a 1000 year history whose shipyard served as the birthplace of the Solidarity Trade Union in 1980. The wave of dissent arising from the Solidarity movement helped lead to Polish independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Call at the small Danish island of<strong> Bornholm</strong>, whose lush farmland and rich herring fisheries share the land with the ruins of a medieval fortress and four of the ancient round churches for which Denmark is noted.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">End in sophisticated<strong> Copenhagen</strong>, which displays 800 years of royal history at the stunning Christiansborg Palace, once home to kings and queens and now home to the Danish Parliament.</p>