Le Jacques Cartier

Sail into the heart of the Pacific on an intimate all-inclusive journey from French Polynesia to Pitcairn Island, where pristine atolls, vibrant reefs, and rich Polynesian culture await.

<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;">For most of its existence, Vietnam has lived in the shadow of China or been subject to Western domination, first by the French and then by the Americans. But since the 1980s, it has emerged as a growing economy, striving to become one of the economic tigers of Southeast Asia. This 15-day voyage from Singapore to Hong Kong invites you to experience the many sides of Vietnam, from the ancient civilizations of Cham and Khmer, through Chinese influence and French colonialism, to the present day.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Sailing from Singapore through the South China Sea, your first port of call after a day and a half at sea is in the <strong>Côn ??o Islands</strong>, located about 60 miles off the southern coast of Vietnam. Once known primarily as home to the <strong>"Tiger Cells,"</strong> one of the most brutal prisons in history, it is now visited for its picturesque fishing villages overlooking a sparkling sea. You may choose to focus on the island's history on a tour that includes a <strong>historical museum, the prison, and a visit to the local market</strong>, or you may explore the islands' natural beauty on a <strong>hike in the highlands.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A morning of cruising brings you to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), where your ship will dock for two nights, making it possible to experience a variety of aspects of this fascinating city. Focus on the city's <strong>history,</strong> both ancient and modern, in visits to the <strong>History Museum, the War Museum, the C? Chi Tunnels</strong>, and the Reunification Palace. Experience the city's <strong>cultural diversity</strong> in visits to temples, in a trip to Chinatown's <strong>open-air market</strong>, or in an evening <strong>performance of Vietnamese dance and song</strong>. Or enjoy <strong>sampling the regional cuisine</strong>—on a cruise of the <strong>Mekong Delta</strong> followed by lunch in a colonial villa, or in a <strong>cooking class</strong> in the Ho Chi Minh Agricultural Villages.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A day of cruising along the Saigon River and then along Vietnam's southern coast brings you to <strong>Quy Nh?n</strong>. Originally a Cham settlement and later an important port during the Nguyen Dynasty, Quy Nh?n boasts a fascinating history that is reflected in its ancient ruins, traditional fishing villages, and vibrant local markets. Here, you will have a chance to witness skilled artisans and join local families in <strong>hat making, rice paper making, and traditional cake making.</strong> Alternatively, you may choose to visit the ancient <strong>Cham towers </strong>and<strong> Long Phuoc Pagoda</strong>, the epicenter of Vietnamese martial arts.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your next port of call, <strong>Da Nang,</strong> serves as an introduction to the <strong>ancient Cham civilization</strong> and to <strong>H?i An</strong>, an old trading port that blends indigenous and foreign (primarily Chinese) influences. Visit the <strong>Cham Museum</strong> and the ruins of ancient Hindu temples at <strong>My Son</strong>; travel to the countryside and experience a day of <strong>tending garden, cooking lunch, and mask-making;</strong> or visit the UNESCO Heritage Site of <strong>H?i An,</strong> perhaps enjoying a <strong>dinner ashore </strong>after sunset, when this fascinating town is lit almost entirely by lanterns.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Chan May</strong>, the lovely bay just around the peninsula from Da Nang, is your gateway to the imperial capital of <strong>Hue</strong>, the seat of power of the Nguyen dynasty that ruled much of Vietnam from the early 19^th century until World War II. Exploration of this UNESCO Heritage Site will tour the <strong>Royal Citadel</strong>, similar in plan to the Forbidden City in Beijing, and the magnificent <strong>tombs of the emperors </strong>on the outskirts of the city. You may also visit either the seven-tiered tower of the <strong>Heavenly Lady Pagoda</strong> overlooking the Perfume River or the garden house and <strong>temple built to honor Princess Ng?c S?n.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">After a day at sea, arrive in the World Heritage site of <strong>H? Long Bay</strong>, a series of rocky pitons emerging from the sea, surrounded by mountains with mysterious caverns. From here, you may choose to travel to Vietnam's bustling capital of <strong>Hanoi</strong>, where a guided tour includes visits to the <strong>Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum</strong>, the <strong>Hoa Lo Prison</strong> ("Hanoi Hilton"), the <strong>Ng?c S?n Pagoda</strong>, and the <strong>Old Quarter</strong>. You may choose a day of tranquility at <strong>Yen Tu Mountain</strong>, site of a <strong>Buddhist monastery</strong> where you can practice Tai Chi, enjoy a <strong>vegetarian lunch</strong>, and join a <strong>meditation class</strong> with a monk. Or, you may decide to explore Ha Long Bay itself on a cruise aboard a local boat.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your final port of call is the amazingly vibrant city of <strong>Hong Kong</strong>, where excursions introduce you to the <strong>food markets</strong> of the city or to places you can purchase birds' nests, ginseng, and other <strong>herbal medicines. </strong>Or you may opt for a <strong>panoramic coach tour</strong> that includes views over the city from Victoria Peak.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">PONANT is the first cruise company to take you to the heart of the sublime landscapes of <strong>the tropical islands in southern Japan</strong> during a<strong> cruise</strong>. On this<strong> 12-day itinerary </strong>aboard <em>Le Jacques Cartier</em>, from <strong>Hong Kong to</strong><strong> Naha</strong>, you will discover the rich natural heritage, traditional villages and craft of the <strong>Okinawa, Yaeyama and Sakishima Islands, </strong>in the Ryukyu archipelago.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From the “Pearl of the Orient”, <strong>Hong Kong</strong>, you will set sail for the southern islands of Japan, including <strong>Ishigaki</strong>, the largest island in the Yaeyama archipelago.  In the heart of the magnificent <strong>Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park,</strong> you will be able to enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the eponymous city or discover Kabira Bay, renowned for its idyllic scenery, combining crystal-clear turquoise water and beaches of white sand. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Following a port of call in the picturesque village of <strong>Taketomijima</strong>, with its traditional Okinawan dwellings and its idyllic sandy expanses, <em>Le Jacques Cartier</em> will sail south to <strong>the island of Iriomotejima. </strong>A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this little corner of paradise will enchant you with its authentic and preserved character, with its wild beaches lying alongside traditional villages surrounded by luxurious tropical forest: jungle, mangrove, rivers, waterfalls. This unique biodiversity is made up of many endemic species.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The landscapes on the remote island of <strong>Yonagunijima</strong>, the easternmost of the <strong>Ryukyu Islands</strong>, offer a striking contrast: cliffs, windswept meadows, wild horses. The beauty of its sea-beds and their mysterious rocky formations will delight the most experienced divers.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">After calling at the stunning Miyako Island, you will head for <strong>Kumejima</strong>, the island that linked Okinawa to China in the past. Famous for its ‘Eisa’, a form of folk dance performed to the rhythm of traditional drums, this multifaceted island will reveal itself through its natural treasures: the mythical Mifuga rock formation or the idyllic beach of Hatenohama, a point of reference for fans of the underwater world.  You will also call at <strong>Iheya Island, </strong>Okinawa’s northernmost territory, where the traditional culture of the region is preserved. You will be able to discover a few aspects of this through a traditional “Eisa” show featuring traditional drums.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Then, on the western coast of the island of Okinawa, fall under the spell of <strong>Motobu</strong> and its idyllic beaches bordered by breathtaking nature. Your final port of call will be <strong>Zamami</strong>, in the Kerama Islands. You will enjoy the unspoiled beauty of this pristine island, known the world over for the distinctive blue of the surrounding sea, called “Kerama blue”. The sea life in the area is also exceptionally rich and sea turtles can often be spotted swimming among the coral. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your cruise will draw an end in <strong>Naha</strong>, your port of disembarkation, on the island of Okinawa.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">From the island of Okinawa to the eastern coastline of the Seto Inland Sea, fall under the spell of an idyllic and ancestral Japan. During a <strong>brand-new 13-day cruise </strong>aboard <strong><em>Le Jacques Cartier</em></strong>, PONANT invites you to discover an enchanted side of Japan, combining preserved nature and ancestral heritage, at the intersection of Western and Japanese traditions.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Naha</strong>, <em>Le Jacques Cartier</em> will sail towards some of Japan’s best-preserved subtropical pearls. In the coral islands of <strong>Zamami </strong>and <strong>Kikaijima</strong>, enjoy the unspoiled beauty of these natural sanctuaries, renowned for their captivating marine biodiversity. You will then arrive at the mountainous island of <strong>Yakushima</strong>, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Providing an unspoiled natural setting for endemic species such as the Yakushima monkey and deer, the island is home to an exceptional natural environment featuring <strong>forests of ancient cedars, bewitching waterfalls, and majestic peaks.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your trip will continue in the <strong>Koshikijima Islands</strong>. Admire the raw and authentic beauty composed of monumental cliffs and huge rock formations dating back to the Cretaceous periodnearly 80 million years ago. You will be captivated by these landscapes unlike any other.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Between the Yatsushiro and Ariake seas, off the coast of Nagasaki, succumb to the charms of the <strong>island region of Amakusa, </strong>once the <strong>refuge of Christians</strong> fleeing the ban on Catholicism in the 17th century during the Edo period.  Further north, between South Korea and Fukuoka Prefecture, in the Tsushima Strait, a little-known island called <strong>Iki</strong> will reveal itself to you in a glorious setting of rock faces with verdant summits and heavenly beaches of fine sand. Considered one of the cradles of Shinto, the island boasts no fewer than 150 shrines scattered across these sacred and unspoiled lands.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Jacques Cartier</em> will sail westward to the volcanic island of <strong>Jeju in South Korea</strong>. Dominated by the majestic silhouette of the Hallasan volcano, the country’s tallest peak, this nature sanctuary reveals its most beautiful treasures: steep cliffs with emerald and ashen reflections, monumental waterfalls, bewitching virgin forests, long stretches of tea plantations, and more. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Next, set off to discover picturesque <strong>Shimonoseki</strong>, the westernmost town on the island of Honshu, opposite the Kanmon Straits. You are now entering the waters of the emblematic <strong>Seto Inland Sea. </strong>Here, discover preserved islands and picturesque towns, witnesses to the passage of the mid-18th-century Japanese merchants, who would travel the Kitamae maritime route every year. <strong>Shimokamagari and Mitarai</strong> are fishing villages imbued with a timeless atmosphere, while the ”shrine island” of <strong>Miyajima </strong>is classed as one of Japan’s three most scenic places thanks to its floating <em>torii</em> and Shinto temple. <strong>Onimichi</strong> will then reveal its many emblematic temples, including <strong>Senk?-ji, Saikoku-ji,</strong> and <strong>J?do-ji.</strong> You will then arrive in <strong>Tomonoura</strong>, known for its gentle way of life and its craggy landscapes, which inspired the artist Hayao Miyazaki for the animated film <em>Ponyo</em>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You disembark in <strong>Kobe</strong>, a charming harbour city nestling between sea and mountains in the heart of the Japanese archipelago.</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>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;">On this <strong>13-day</strong> voyage from Bali through the myriad islands of eastern Indonesia to the northern shores of Australia you will sail through the heart of the <strong>Coral Triangle,</strong> where beaches, mangroves, and rainforests host an <strong>amazing biodiversity</strong>, and where the surrounding seas comprise <strong>the richest coral reef system in the world.</strong> You will also encounter a rich human history as you discover the colonial legacy of European powers who fought one another for control of the trade in valuable spices, and as you visit with villagers whose way of life continues age-old traditions.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Leaving Bali, the aptly-named "Island of Gods," your first port of call, on the island of <strong>Sumbawa,</strong> is also your first encounter with a <strong>traditional village,</strong> where you will be welcomed by the residents and introduced to some of their customs. This glimpse of ancient and enduring ritual is followed by two days exploring the <strong>abundant wildlife of Komodo National Park</strong>, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to an incredible diversity of species, including the eponymous <strong>Komodo dragons</strong>, giant monitor lizards that grow to more than ten feet long.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the islands of <strong>Flores</strong> and <strong>Alor</strong>, you will experience some of the best <strong>snorkeling and diving opportunities</strong> of the voyage, as well as an opportunity to delve into the customs and traditions of the indigenous Takpala people. And in the <strong>Barat Daya Islands</strong> you will find more of the same, as well as <strong>amazing birdlife</strong>, including 162 different species, a number of which are endemic.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A full day in <strong>Band Neira</strong> in the Maluku Islands (<strong>spice islands</strong>) introduces you to the history of these small volcanic outcroppings that were fought over by virtually every colonial power interested in the South Pacific and the trade in cloves, nutmeg, and mace. As you walk the streets of the town, you will discover an <strong>eclectic mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture</strong>—the remnants of a long and tumultuous history.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Kitikiti Waterfall</strong> and <strong>Triton Bay</strong>, both on the coast of West Papua, provide two days of unparalleled diving, snorkeling, swimming, and Zodiac cruising in the <strong>"epicenter of the Coral Triangle."</strong> And your last call, before a day at sea brings you to <strong>Darwin, Australia,</strong> and the end of the voyage, will be in the <strong>Kei Islands</strong>, located in the heart of the Malukus, home to some of Indonesia’s most beautiful white sandy beaches.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following an exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Darwin</strong> to <strong>Broome</strong>, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise </strong>to <strong>one of the last unspoiled regions on the planet</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will also visit <strong>Collier Bay</strong>, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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 tide 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, whilst complying with the necessary safety rules and precautions.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following this exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From Broome to Darwin, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon. You will also visit Collier Bay, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along one of the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following an exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Darwin</strong> to <strong>Broome</strong>, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise </strong>to <strong>one of the last unspoiled regions on the planet</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will also visit <strong>Collier Bay</strong>, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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 tide 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, whilst complying with the necessary safety rules and precautions.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following this exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From Broome to Darwin, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon. You will also visit Collier Bay, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along one of the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following an exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Darwin</strong> to <strong>Broome</strong>, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise </strong>to <strong>one of the last unspoiled regions on the planet</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will also visit <strong>Collier Bay</strong>, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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 tide 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, whilst complying with the necessary safety rules and precautions.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>With featured guest Ronni Kahn, founder of Australia's leading food rescue charity,OzHarvest.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following this exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From Broome to Darwin, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon. You will also visit Collier Bay, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along one of the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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;"><strong><span class="TextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">In collaboration with The Explorers Club, this unique voyage will feature </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">Andi Cross</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">,</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong"> an </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">environmental and social</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">impact </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">strategist, professional diver, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">and </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">writer</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">.</span></span> <span class="TextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">Since 2023, Andi has led </span></span><em><span class="TextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">Edges of Earth</span></span></em><span class="TextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">, a global, multi-year Explorers Club Flag Expedition documenting solutions to some of the planet’s most urgent environmental challenges. </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">This initiative </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW232833643 BCX8" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">has been formally appointed to the UN and UNESCO’s Ocean Decade, underscoring its scientific and cultural significance.</span></span></strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following an exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Darwin</strong> to <strong>Broome</strong>, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise </strong>to <strong>one of the last unspoiled regions on the planet</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will also visit <strong>Collier Bay</strong>, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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 tide 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, whilst complying with the necessary safety rules and precautions.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following this exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From Broome to Darwin, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon. You will also visit Collier Bay, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along one of the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following an exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Darwin</strong> to <strong>Broome</strong>, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise </strong>to <strong>one of the last unspoiled regions on the planet</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will also visit <strong>Collier Bay</strong>, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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 tide 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, whilst complying with the necessary safety rules and precautions.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set sail for the <strong>wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley</strong>, following this exceptional <strong>PONANT</strong> itinerary.  </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From Broome to Darwin, embark for an <strong>11-day expedition cruise.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the <strong>Lacepede Islands</strong>, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the <strong>large population of turtles</strong> residing in the lagoon. You will also visit Collier Bay, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will take you along one of the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the <strong>Hunter River</strong>, you will see wild mangrove forests where <strong>saltwater crocodiles</strong> live along with many species of birds.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">During your cruise, the magnificent <strong>bays of Vansittart and Swift</strong> will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the <strong>King George River and the majestic Twin Falls</strong>, the highest falls in Western Australia.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of <strong>an exceptional adventure</strong>.</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;">Archipelagos emerge in the immensity of the South Pacific, lost between an enchanted ocean and a captivating sky<strong>. Fiji, Tonga, Cook Islands, French Polynesia...</strong> These legendary lands, shrouded in secrecy, unveil their greatest mysteries. Between <strong>crystal-clear lagoons and volcanic mountains</strong> draped in greenery, each horizon reveals a promise of pristine landscapes, vibrant traditions and timeless moments.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">As you sail to the different ports of call, you will fall under the spell of the turquoise water in the lagoons in which <strong>Manta rays and other tropical fish glide around</strong>. The infinite beaches, edged with palm trees and bathed in light, offer limitless serenity. The singing and dancing in the villages recount the history of these communities, who remain guardians of an intact culture. Between the quiet waters of <strong>Motu Mahana,</strong> the wild shores of Rarotonga and the majestic silhouettes of Moorea, each moment is bewitching. While the scent of Tahitian flowers floats in the air, the golden glow dusk lights up the landscapes, thus transforming each instant into a unique moment.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">If heaven were a place on Earth, French Polynesia would probably be it. It has always fascinated and moved all those who have stepped foot on it. Its nature and culture have the power to enchant, and have been creating extraordinary landscapes and recounting ancestral legends for thousands of years. The <strong>Marquesas,</strong> steeped in mystery and a source of inspiration to artists like Jacques Brel or Paul Gauguin, will unveil their wild and mystical soul, between majestic cliffs and lush green valleys. Go back in time to encounter Tikis on the sacred <strong>Te I'ipona archaeological site</strong> on the island of <strong>Hiva Oa, </strong>or to see the “petroglyphs” on <strong>Nuku Hiva.</strong></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">At the edges of the world, set off on an all-new adventure discovering Polynesia’s best-kept secrets. Far off the beaten path, <strong>the shores of Tuamotu, the wild Gambier Islands and the Austral archipelago</strong> will unveil their sovereign nature and insular culture, which is very much still alive. <strong>Atolls just above the water, turquoise lagoons, fine sandy beaches and cliffs sculpted</strong> by the ocean serve as a decor for the special ports of call and the activities designed hand-in-hand with the local communities. Sail from island to island, encountering their <strong>unique traditions and fascinating ecosystems.</strong>  </p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">If heaven were a place on Earth, French Polynesia would probably be it. It has always fascinated and moved all those who have stepped foot on it. Its nature and culture have the power to enchant, and have been creating extraordinary landscapes and recounting ancestral legends for thousands of years. The <strong>Marquesas,</strong> steeped in mystery and a source of inspiration to artists like Jacques Brel or Paul Gauguin, will unveil their wild and mystical soul, between majestic cliffs and lush green valleys. Go back in time to encounter Tikis on the sacred <strong>Te I'ipona archaeological site</strong> on the island of <strong>Hiva Oa, </strong>or to see the “petroglyphs” on <strong>Nuku Hiva.</strong></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set off a unique odyssey into the heart of the Pacific Ocean, an intimate adventure discovering pristine French Polynesian archipelagos from <strong>Tuamotu</strong> <strong>and the</strong> <strong>Gambier Islands to mythical Pitcairn Island</strong>. <strong>Mataiva, Anaa, Hikueru, Rikitea, Aukena</strong>…These intact islands are scattered like precious pearls throughout your journey, offering a breathtaking natural show that features mysterious atolls, turquoise lagoons, immaculate beaches, and extraordinarily rich coral reefs. In addition to the splendid scenery, each port of call will invite you to discover ancestral practices, local cultures, exhilarating dances and songs plunging the visitor into the profound Polynesian soul via activities co-constructed with local players.</p>