Le Laperouse

<p style="text-align: justify;">From Reykjavik to Dublin, set off on a 9-cruise aboard <em>Le</em> <em>Lapérouse</em> to explore the magnificent landscapes of Iceland, the Faroe Islands and Scotland all the way to the Irish coastlines. In this wild world, facing completely unobstructed skies, you will seek out a rare phenomenon:<strong> the total solar eclipse, off the coast of Heimaey, on 12 August 2026, and discover its secrets thanks to the exceptional presence of the astronaut Jean-François Clervoy.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">At each port of call on your trip, each guest will be able to choose one included excursion from the selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, admire the panoramas provided by the Eldfell volcano from Heimaey, explore the wild landscapes of the Faroe Islands during a hike, or discover the treasures of the Shetland Islands from Lerwick. The range of experiences on offer promises a great time with lots of variety (for the full list of excursions, click on the Itinerary tab).</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">On the edge of the <strong>Arctic</strong>, Iceland offers up a simultaneously romantic and wild face.  From <strong>Reykjavik</strong>, the world’s northernmost capital, your ship will sail towards <strong>Heimaey</strong>. This is the only inhabited island in the <strong>Westman archipelago</strong>. An exceptional place composed of volcanoes and almost-desert landscapes, it is also a refuge for many colonies of birds, including gannets.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Along these mysterious shores, in the sudden darkness, the captain will take you, weather conditions permitting*, <strong>in search of the best place to observe the total solar eclipse</strong>, the 16th of the 21st century. You will be captivated by the unique spectacle, during which the Moon will obscure the Sun.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will then set a course for the <strong>Faroe Islands,</strong> Denmark’s northernmost autonomous territory. In this isolated archipelago, you will immerse yourself in a wild and spectacular natural environment. In <strong>Tórshavn</strong>, you will enjoy sailing around cliffs home to bird colonies. Here, the Viking legends and the Nordic cosmogony are never far away.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will also discover <strong>Lerwick</strong>, the main port in the Shetland Islands. Nearby is the <strong>Jarlshof </strong>prehistoric and Norse settlement, where Neolithic people first settled more than 4,000 years ago – it is one of the most spectacular excavated sites in the British Isles.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">In <strong>Portree</strong>, discover the Isle of Skye, a stronghold of Gaelic culture, and its stunning landscapes before heading to Dublin, disembarkation port. The Irish capital is known for its friendly atmosphere and authentic charm.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>*As we cannot control the weather conditions, we cannot guarantee the observation of this total solar eclipse. Nevertheless, the Captain will have room for manoeuvre and will be able to sail towards the most suitable places on the eclipse’s trajectory</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">PONANT invites you on a 10-day cruise aboard <em>Le </em><em>Lapérouse </em>for an extraordinary journey featuring the archaeological sites and sumptuous scenery of northern <strong>Scotland, on the edge of the Highlands</strong>, in the heart of the dreamlike and mysterious <strong>Hebrides archipelago</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From?<strong>Dublin</strong>, the Irish capital brimming with convivial atmosphere and authentic charm, your ship will then take you to the?Isle of Man, located between the United Kingdom and Ireland, with a clear Celtic and Viking heritage. The capital <strong>Douglas </strong>is an authentic postcard from United Kingdom of yesteryear with a Victorian atmosphere. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Then you will call in <strong>Portrush</strong>, where you can visit the?<strong>Giant's Causeway</strong>. This massive geological formation is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features over 40,000 basalt columns. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will then reach <strong>Rathlin Island</strong><strong>,</strong> a small and austere territory in County Antrim, whose sheer cliffs are home to Northern Ireland’s largest seabird colony. Near the surprising upside-down lighthouse, located on the west of the island, you will be able to visit the RSPB seabird centre.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Then you will set sail towards <strong>the Hebrides archipelago</strong>. Located to the west of Scotland, it has around 150 islands and will reveal its diversity.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will make a stop on <strong>Iona</strong>, the birthplace of Christianity in Scotland, home to an impressive abbey, and probably where the Book of Kells was produced. Then, you will enjoy sailing along Staffa Island and its impressive basalt columns and will reach the volcanic territory of  <strong>Lunga</strong>, in the Treshnish Isles. The small island is a protected area for seabirds and home to colonies of puffins and guillemots among others. You will continue your exploration of the <strong>Inner Hebrides</strong> on the Isle of Skye. With their granite hills and heather moorlands, the landscapes of <strong>Loch Scavaig</strong> are among the wildest in the Highlands and will be an opportunity for an unforgettable walk at Loch Coruisk. <strong>Canna</strong>, a charming islet inhabited by twenty or so souls and nicknamed “the garden of the Hebrides”, will unveil itself, with its Christian, Celtic, Nordic and Scottish vestiges, in a natural setting of great beauty, a sanctuary for rich marine birdlife. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will then cruise towards <strong>Ullapool </strong>on the shore of <strong>Loch Broom</strong> in the western Highlands. This former herring fishing port boasts a picturesque atmosphere made up of white cottages and colourful fishermen's boats</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will continue to the <strong>Outer Hebrides</strong> and you will discover <strong>Callanish</strong> on the <strong>Isle of Lewis</strong>. This port of call will take you back in time to between 2900 and 2600 BC, the period during which the island’s megalithic site would have been created… Before the circle of standing stones, aligned with the cardinal points, the mystery remains entire, the emotion is palpable.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Next, you will reach the <strong>Shiant Isles</strong> for an unforgettable experience sailing at the foot of their cliffs, where many colonies of seabirds come to nest.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Then <em>Le </em><em>Lapérouse </em>will set sail towards <strong>Rothesay</strong>, an elegant Victorian seaside resort on the <strong>Isle of Bute</strong>. Constructed around its 13th-century castle, the small town brims with charm, with its fine dwellings in the extravagant Georgian architectural style, and its sumptuous wild and landscaped gardens.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Finally, you will reach<strong> Glasgow</strong>, your disembarkation port.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>PONANT</strong> invites you to discover the Atlantic coastline with a 9-day cruise. During this exceptional journey aboard <em>Le Lapérouse, </em>let the wild and melancholic beauty of the British, Irish and French coasts surprise you.</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, visit the <strong>Navan Fort archaeological site</strong> near <strong>Warrenpoint</strong>, fill up on chlorophyll in the <strong>Lost Gardens of Heligan</strong>, leaving from <strong>Fowey,</strong> or discover the <strong>Médoc</strong> region’s famous <strong>“Route des Châteaux</strong>” in <strong>Pauillac</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> Glasgow</strong>, the largest city in Scotland, boasting a convivial atmosphere and authentic charm, you will sail to <strong>Portrush</strong>, where you can visit the?<strong>Giant's Causeway</strong>. This massive geological formation is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features over 40,000 basalt columns. Then you will call in <strong>Warrenpoint</strong>, a seaside resort nestling in an exceptional natural environment.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will make a stop in <strong>Cobh. </strong>This charming and romantic town, steeped in history and legend, will reveal itself through its maze of cobbled streets with, in the background, its 17th-century fortress and its majestic forest.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Then, mythical Cornwall will reveal itself. In <strong>Fowey</strong>, you will marvel at Mother Nature’s masterpieces. There, you will discover a spellbinding environment of majestic cliffs and vast natural spaces, conducive to escape and tranquillity.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will cross the English Channel and reach the Breton coastlines with a first port of call in <strong>Roscoff</strong>. You will be enchanted by this port full of character, which is easily recognisable through its granite facades, testimony to a rich architectural heritage dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will then head for the <strong>Quiberon</strong> peninsula. Here, you will discover a dreamy setting between two seas with breathtaking scenery: on one side, the Atlantic Ocean and its wild coastline; on the other, Quiberon Bay and its sandy beaches. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Lapérouse</em> will sail along the Atlantic front to the Gironde estuary. During your port of call in <strong>Pauillac</strong>, among other things, you will have the opportunity to enjoy several visits and wine tastings at some very beautiful wine estates in the Saint-Estèphe, Margaux and Pauillac appellations.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your cruise will end in <strong>Bordeaux</strong>, considered the wine capital of the world.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.</em></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Set sail aboard <strong><em>Le</em></strong> <strong><em>Lapérouse</em> </strong>on an exceptional 14-day itinerary that will take you from the Moorish worlds of Andalusia and Morocco to the Atlantic archipelagos of Madeira and the Canary Islands—worlds of great historical and cultural import and also of great natural beauty.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Begin in <strong>Lisbon</strong>, where a panoramic tour of the city's main sights includes <strong>Belém Tower</strong>, the point from which many Portuguese explorers, including Vasco da Gama, set sail—now a UNESCO World Heritage site. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Lagos,</strong> near the southwestern tip of Portugal, is your gateway to the natural beauty, history, and culture of the Algarve. Tour the Old Town, visit the stunning rock formations and caves of <strong>Ponta da Piedade,</strong> and enjoy a <strong>tasting of Algarve wines</strong>. Or travel the short distance to <strong>Sagres </strong>on Cape St. Vincent, from where <strong>Prince Henry the Navigator,</strong> directed the expeditions that led to the discovery of Madeira and the Azores and helped establish Portuguese outposts in West Africa.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your introduction to the rich cultural landscape of Andalusia begins with a call in <strong>Cádiz</strong>, one of the country’s oldest cities and the home of the Spanish Navy during the discovery of the Americas. From Cádiz you will have an opportunity to visit the superb palace of the <strong>Alcázar</strong> in <strong>Seville</strong>, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.</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 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;">After arriving in Morocco in <strong>Tangier, </strong>visit the <strong>American Legation</strong>, the oldest U.S. diplomatic mission in the world, or 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;">In <strong>Casablanca</strong>, enjoy a full day either to discover the modern architecture of this bustling metropolis, including the stunning <strong>Hassan II Mosque</strong>, or to travel to Morocco's capital, <strong>Rabat</strong>, to delve into the Moorish past represented in the emblematic <strong>Hassan Tower</strong> and the <strong>Oudayas Kasbah</strong>. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">A day at sea brings you to the subtropical Portuguese island of<strong> Madeira</strong>, where you will spend an afternoon and following morning. Visit the village of <strong>Monte,</strong> formerly a resort and spa for European high society, and explore the <strong>Botanical Gardens</strong> with panoramic views of the bay. Or travel to the thriving fishing village of <strong>Câmara de Lobos</strong> to discover views that inspired Winston Churchill's painting during his stay on the island. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The next day, you reach the <strong>Canary Islands</strong>, where the remainder of the voyage is spent exploring this fascinating archipelago just off the coast of West Africa. On <strong>La Palma</strong>, choose from among a number of excursions, all of which focus on the rugged volcanic terrain of this small island—<strong>Caldera de Taburiente National Park</strong>, home to one of the largest craters in the world; <strong>Roque de los Muchachos</strong>, the highest elevation on the island and site of the world's largest single-aperture optical telescope; and <strong>Tagojaite</strong>, a volcano formed  in September 2021.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">The final day of your voyage is spent on the island of <strong>Tenerife,</strong> the largest of the Canaries, where you may continue exploration of the extraordinary natural beauty of the archipelago on a panoramic tour of the island's lush forest and the <strong>Las Cañadas</strong> mountain range, or you may travel to <strong>San Cristóbal de La Laguna,</strong> a UNESCO World Heritage site, capital of the Canary Islands until 1723, which has preserved much of its original architecture.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your voyage ends in <strong>Las Palmas</strong> on the island of <strong>Gran Canaria</strong>.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">In the Canaries archipelago, the volcanic islands rise from the Atlantic Ocean like mirages. In these lands of a <strong>thousand contrasts, lunar landscapes with crimson and ashen reflections, valleys covered in lush vegetation, craggy coves and sand dunes</strong> blend beautifully.  In the heart of these majestic islands, at times peaceful, at times lively, discover an exceptional heritage. Between old towns featuring typical Canarian architecture and preserved nature best revealed in the stunning national parks that dot this itinerary, fall under the spell of the unique geology and history of these sites. </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;">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;">In <strong>partnership with the magazine <em>Le Point</em></strong> and with the exceptional presence of the <strong>writer Kamel Daoud and the journalist Christophe Ono-dit-Biot, </strong>explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of the Caribbean Sea. In these crystal-clear waters, the underwater life is as hypnotic as the panoramas provided by <strong>Guadeloupe and Saint Lucia</strong>. Further on are the stunning <strong>archipelagos of the Grenadines</strong>, like a confetti of islets bound together by the most beautiful coral reef in the West Indies, and San Blas, home to the Kuna people. In <strong>Panama and Colombia</strong>, lush mangroves and lively towns reveal themselves, between Congo ceremonies and sleepy ruins.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Connecting two continents, <strong>Panama and Costa Rica</strong> both possess <strong>unique biodiversity and landscapes</strong>. During this expedition cruise, <strong>tropical forest, impressive mangrove, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water</strong> will make up the decor of an extraordinary experience, between two oceans, thanks to the crossing of <strong>the mythical Panama Canal</strong>. From historic sites and preserved archipelagos to coral islets and nature reserves, you will explore this region’s treasures in the company of naturalist guides, discovering the history of the <strong>local communities</strong> as well as the incredible wildlife to be found here.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>The wildlife encounters are possible experiences and cannot be guaranteed.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Explore the luxurious <strong>Pacific Coast of Costa Rica</strong> during a <strong>8-day journey</strong>, looped from Puntarenas. <strong>From Guanacaste to the Osa Peninsula,</strong> set off to discover incredible wildlife and explore emblematic national parks, guided by the song of the howler monkeys, the slow movements of sloths, the hypnotic colours of the macaws and other fascinating species. In this biodiversity sanctuary, <strong>mangroves, tropical forests and beaches of black sand</strong> are perfect illustrations of the country’s mantra: <em>Pura Vida</em>, meaning a pure life, one that is harmonious and closely linked to nature.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>The wildlife encounters are possible experiences and cannot be guaranteed.</em> </p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Connecting two continents, <strong>Panama and Costa Rica</strong> both possess unique biodiversity and landscapes. During this expedition cruise, <strong>tropical forest, impressive mangrove, white sandy beaches and crystal-clear water</strong> will make up the decor of an extraordinary experience, between two oceans, thanks to the crossing of the <strong>mythical Panama Canal</strong>. From <strong>historic sites and preserved archipelagos to coral islets and nature reserves</strong>, you will explore this region’s treasures in the company of naturalist guides, discovering the history of the local communities as well as the incredible wildlife to be found here.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>Wildlife encounters are possible experiences and cannot be guaranteed.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Between the magic of Panama's crystal-clear waters and the lush jungles of Costa Rica, fall under the spell of a cruise where each port of call reveals its finest treasures. On this unforgettable journey between Colón and Puntarenas, you will discover wild regions with a biodiversity that is unique in the world, meet indigenous communities carrying on ancient traditions, and be mesmerised by the breathtaking views. Navigate between two worlds and sail one of the most mystical shipping routes across the Isthmus of Panama, from one ocean to the other, between heavenly beaches and primary tropical forests.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>The wildlife encounters are possible experiences and cannot be guaranteed.</em></span></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;">Discover <strong>Panama</strong> and <strong>Costa Rica</strong> with PONANT on this splendid <strong>8-day cruise </strong>aboard <em>Le Lapérouse</em>, which explores the region’s abundant natural splendours, local indigenous communities, and the modern marvel of the Panama Canal.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your journey in <strong>Central America</strong> will start in <strong>Quepos, Costa Rica,</strong> gateway to the spectacular <strong>Manuel Antonio National Park</strong>, where you will encounter myriad tropical flora and fantastic fauna, including sloths, the noisy howler monkey, the white-faced capuchin, and the tiny squirrel monkey. The combination of forest and ocean also provides a special opportunity to observe both terrestrial and sea birds—toucans, pelicans, hummingbirds, terns, and more.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship calls next in the remote and magnificent <strong>Darién National Park</strong>. This little corner of paradise is a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage site</strong> and home to a remarkably diverse range of plants and wildlife. Rocky coastlines, mangroves, swamps, and tropical rainforests abound and offer a feast for photographers. Here, meet members of the local <strong>Emberá </strong>community.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Lapérouse</em> continues to Fuerte Amador for an exploration of <strong>Panama City’s Old Quarter</strong> and of the region’s fantastic biodiversity at the superb Frank Gehry-designed <strong><em>Biomuseo</em>.</strong></p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Here, you will also visit the Punta?Culebra Nature Center at the <strong>Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI)</strong>, a fascinating, open-air museum dedicated to marine science?and conservation. On a specially arranged tour guided by Smithsonian staff, hear about the latest studies, observe marine species up close, and explore the unique flora and fauna of the tropical dry forest.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">After a daytime sailing from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean through the world-famous <strong>Panama Canal</strong>, your final call will be along the white sands and translucent waters of <strong>Holandes Cayes</strong>, one of the coral islets of Panama’s <strong>San Blas Islands</strong>. Spend a day in this tropical paradise and enjoy the opportunity to swim and snorkel. Members of the <strong>Guna</strong> community call these islands home, and you may encounter them along the beach.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.</em></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Between the magic of Panama's crystal-clear waters and the lush jungles of Costa Rica, fall under the spell of a cruise where each port of call reveals its finest treasures. On this unforgettable journey between Colón and Puntarenas, you will discover wild regions with a biodiversity that is unique in the world, meet indigenous communities carrying on ancient traditions, and be mesmerised by the breathtaking views. Navigate between two worlds and sail one of the most mystical shipping routes across the Isthmus of Panama, from one ocean to the other, between heavenly beaches and primary tropical forests.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;"><em>The wildlife encounters are possible experiences and cannot be guaranteed.</em></span></p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of the Caribbean Sea. On the <strong>Panamanian and Colombian coastlines</strong>, lush mangroves and lively towns recount the colonial past of the region, featuring Congo ceremonies and sleepy ruins. Off the coast, the turquoise sea wraps itself around stunning archipelagos, such as <strong>the San Blas Islands</strong>, home to the Kuna community, or the <strong>Grenadines,</strong> like a confetti of islets bound together by the most beautiful coral reef in the West Indies. In these crystal-clear waters, the underwater life is mesmerising, as are the panoramas provided by the Pitons of <strong>Saint Lucia</strong> and the gentle Creole way of life pervading <strong>Les Saintes</strong>.  </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;">In the heart of the <strong>Atlantic Ocean</strong>, set off to discover the volcanic and verdant landscapes of the <strong>Canary Islands and Madeira</strong>, as well as some of the fascinating historic cities to be found on the <strong>Moroccan and Portuguese shores</strong>. On these lands of a thousand contrasts, nature reveals a wild beauty, featuring majestic volcanos, lush valleys and secret coves. You will explore <strong>cities with a rich past</strong>, brimming with architectural treasures that blend <strong>Spanish, Portuguese and Moorish influences</strong>, and picturesque and lively squares ideal for strolling around and immersing yourself in the local atmosphere. An unforgettable journey during which nature meets the vibrant heritage of past civilisations.</p>

<p style="text-align: justify;">Set off to discover the <strong>Portuguese, Spanish and French Atlantic shores</strong>, veritable <strong>treasure chests of natural beauty and history</strong>. As you glide along the water, you will see cliffs shaped by the wind, lively fishing ports and historic cities all reveal themselves, immersing travellers in a <strong>marine heritage nurtured by Latin and Celtic influences</strong>. In these seaside territories, marked by the great sagas of the Atlantic route, each port of call unveils its jewels: secular architecture, the authentic charm of the corsair cities, spectacular coastal walks, and so on. <strong>An elegant marine adventure</strong>, featuring wild nature, a rich past and a gentle European way 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;">Join PONANT aboard <em>Le Lapérouse</em> for an <strong>8-day cruise</strong> on an exceptional itinerary to discover the rugged landscapes of the <strong>Scottish Isles</strong> and the beauty of the<strong> Norwegian fjords</strong>. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Begin your voyage in <strong>Glasgow</strong>, Scotland's cultural capital with a rich artistic and architectural heritage.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship will first sail to <strong>Fort William</strong>, from where you can immerse yourself in local lore during a cruise of fabled <strong>Loch Ness</strong> or take a tour and enjoy a dram of <strong>scotch whisky</strong> at a local distillery.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">From <strong>Portree</strong>, spend a day on the unparalleled Isle of Skye. Or, not to be missed on the mainland is <strong>Eilean Donan</strong>, one of the most recognizable castles in the world and an iconic symbol of Scotland.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Your ship sails next towards <strong>Kirkwall</strong>, <strong>Orkney</strong>, where numerous seabirds, such as dunters and ringed plovers, take residence. The <strong>Standing Stones of Stenness</strong>, built around 5,400 years ago, are a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. </p> <p style="text-align: justify;"><em>Le Lapérouse </em> then sails for <strong>Lerwick</strong>, the main port in the Shetland Islands. Nearby is the <strong>Jarlshof </strong>prehistoric and Norse settlement, where Neolithic people first settled more than 4,000 years ago – it is one of the most spectacular excavated sites in the British Isles.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">Next cross the North Sea and sail towards <strong>Olden</strong>. From this small and charming village, located a few miles from Jostedalsbreen National Park, home to one of the last ice caps in Europe, admire the magnificent <strong>Briksdal Glacier</strong>.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">End your voyage in Gudvangen for a scenic drive to  <strong>Flåm</strong> where you will board the <strong>Flåm Railway</strong> to take a beautiful train journey high into the mountains of western Norway. View stunning rivers, waterfalls, and cultural landscapes around every corner.</p> <p style="text-align: justify;">You will disembark in <strong>Bergen</strong>, famous for its Hanseatic wharf, Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site which still carries traces of the rich historic past of the city founded by the Vikings.</p>