Cork City received its first charter in 1185 from Prince John of Norman England, and it takes its name from the Irish word corcaigh, meaning “marshy place.” The original 6th-century settlement was spread over 13 small islands in the River Lee. Major development occurred during the 17th and 18th centuries with the expansion of the butter trade, and many attractive Georgian-design buildings with wide bowfront windows were constructed during this time. As late as 1770 Cork’s present-day main streets—Grand Parade, Patrick Street, and the South Mall—were submerged under the Lee. Around 1800, when the Lee was partially dammed, the river divided into two streams that now flow through the city, leaving the main business and commercial center on an island, not unlike Paris’s Île de la Cité. As a result, the city has a number of bridges and quays, which, although initially confusing, add greatly to the port’s unique character. Cork can be very “Irish” (hurling, Gaelic football, televised plowing contests, music pubs, and peat smoke). But depending on what part of town you’re in, Cork can also be distinctly un-Irish—the sort of place where hippies, gays, and farmers drink at the same pub.
Galway is a city in the West of Ireland in the province of Connacht. It lies on the River Corrib between Lough Corrib and Galway Bay and is surrounded by County Galway. It is the fourth most populous urban area in the Republic of Ireland and the sixth most populous city in the island of Ireland. It is both a picturesque and lively city with a wonderful avant-garde culture and a fascinating mixture of locally owned speciality shops, often featuring locally made crafts. Indeed local handcrafts are a feature of the entire region including hand knits, pottery, glass, jewellery and woodwork. The city’s hub is 18th-century Eyre Square, a popular meeting spot surrounded by shops, and traditional pubs that often offer live Irish folk music. Nearby, stone-clad cafes, boutiques and art galleries line the winding lanes of the Latin Quarter, which retains portions of the medieval city walls. The city bears the nickname “The City of the Tribes” because “fourteen tribes” of merchant families led the city in its Hiberno-Norman period. The merchants would have seen themselves as Irish gentry and loyal to the King. They later adopted the term as a badge of honour and pride in defiance of the town’s Cromwellian occupier.
Killybegs The days start early in Killybegs, as this quiet fishing town rumbles to life, and ships with red and blue paint peeling from their hulls quietly depart, ready for a morning’s hard work at sea. Located in a scenic part of County Donegal, Killybegs is Ireland’s fishing capital, and the salty breeze and pretty streets serve as a revitalising medicine for visitors. The town is also your gateway to some of the country’s most majestic coastal scenery, which is dotted with flashing white lighthouses, keeping watch over invigorating seascapes. Killybegs enjoys a privileged position on the coast of north west of Ireland, close to the spectacular Slieve League – a titanic mountain, which explodes upwards from frothing ocean. Walk as close as you dare to the coastline’s sheer drops, or admire the folding cliffs from the best vantage point, down on the water.
Portrush is adjacent to the stunning North Antrim coastline. Here lies the medieval Dunluce Castle ruins. Perched picturesquely at the edge of a rocky outcropping high above the sea, the castle is dramatically surrounded by terrifyingly steep drops, which the early Christians and Vikings would have considered a very important security feature. The castle and surrounding areas have been frequently used for the filming of “Game of Thrones”. Another attraction reached from Portrush is the Giant’s Causeway -40,000 hexagonal basalt columns that descend in a kind of pathway to the sea. Formed over 50 million years ago, visitors have marvelled at its majesty and mystery for centuries, and UNESCO has recognised this site with World Heritage status.
Dublin is making a comeback. The decade-long “Celtic Tiger” boom era was quickly followed by the Great Recession, but The Recovery has finally taken a precarious hold. For visitors, this newer and wiser Dublin has become one of western Europe’s most popular and delightful urban destinations. Whether or not you’re out to enjoy the old or new Dublin, you’ll find it a colossally entertaining city, all the more astonishing considering its intimate size.It is ironic and telling that James Joyce chose Dublin as the setting for his famous Ulysses, Dubliners, and A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man because it was a “center of paralysis” where nothing much ever changed. Which only proves that even the greats get it wrong sometimes. Indeed, if Joyce were to return to his once-genteel hometown today—disappointed with the city’s provincial outlook, he left it in 1902 at the age of 20—and take a quasi-Homeric odyssey through the city (as he so famously does in Ulysses), would he even recognize Dublin as his “Dear Dirty Dumpling, foostherfather of fingalls and dotthergills”?For instance, what would he make of Temple Bar—the city’s erstwhile down-at-the-heels neighborhood, now crammed with cafés and trendy hotels and suffused with a nonstop, international-party atmosphere? Or the simple sophistication of the open-air restaurants of the tiny Italian Quarter (named Quartier Bloom after his own creation), complete with sultry tango lessons? Or of the hot–cool Irishness, where every aspect of Celtic culture results in sold-out theaters, from Once, the cult indie movie and Broadway hit, to Riverdance, the old Irish mass-jig recast as a Las Vegas extravaganza? Plus, the resurrected Joyce might be stirred by the songs of Hozier, fired up by the sultry acting of Michael Fassbender, and moved by the award-winning novels of Colum McCann. As for Ireland’s capital, it’s packed with elegant shops and hotels, theaters, galleries, coffeehouses, and a stunning variety of new, creative little restaurants can be found on almost every street in Dublin, transforming the provincial city that suffocated Joyce into a place almost as cosmopolitan as the Paris to which he fled. And the locals are a hell of a lot more fun! Now that the economy has finally turned a corner, Dublin citizens can cast a cool eye over the last 20 crazy years. Some argue that the boomtown transformation of their heretofore-tranquil city has permanently affected its spirit and character. These skeptics (skepticism long being a favorite pastime in the capital city) await the outcome of “Dublin: The Sequel,” and their greatest fear is the possibility that the tattered old lady on the Liffey has become a little less unique, a little more like everywhere else.Oh ye of little faith: the rare ole gem that is Dublin is far from buried. The fundamentals—the Georgian elegance of Merrion Square, the Norman drama of Christ Church Cathedral, the foamy pint at an atmospheric pub—are still on hand to gratify. Most of all, there are the locals themselves: the nod and grin when you catch their eye on the street, the eagerness to hear half your life story before they tell you all of theirs, and their paradoxically dark but warm sense of humor. It’s expected that 2016 will be an extra-special year in the capital, as centenary celebrations of the fateful 1916 Easter Rising will dominate much of the cultural calendar.

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Included in all staterooms

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Included in all staterooms

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Included in all staterooms

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Included in all staterooms

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Included in all staterooms

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
Included in all staterooms

At the back of deck 2, you will find a 370 m² gourmet restaurant offering French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

In a relaxed atmosphere, a 235 m² grill restaurant located on deck 6 welcomes you for breakfast, buffet lunches and themed dinners.

Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.

Because your desires for escape are many, we offer a range of explorations, each promising unique experiences. Timeless, Discoveries, or Expeditions: each collection offers a distinct and tailored approach, allowing you to experience your chosen destination as closely as possible.
Timeless
Preserved and authentic towns and villages, iconic or more secluded sites… Discover the cultural and gastronomic riches of your destination through the eyes of inspiring local guides and your onboard lecturer, experts in the regions visited.
Timeless: your experiences
Discoveries
Explore your destination in all its facets: cultural, natural, historical or even gastronomic… Each itinerary is designed to offer you the best of your stopovers thanks to the expertise of local guides or naturalist guides, depending on the destination.
Discoveries: your experiences
Shipments
Sail to the most secluded shores on the planet. An all-inclusive immersive experience, co-created with local communities, accompanied by a team of naturalist guides passionate about the world’s wildlife, flora, and cultures. These experts share their knowledge through inspiring onboard lectures, Zodiac excursions, walks or hikes in small groups, and opportunities to connect with peoples whose traditions are thousands of years old.
The program for all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months before departure. Booking takes place approximately two months before departure.

Get as up close to the natural environment as possible with an excursion aboard a two-person sea kayak, during one 1h30 session.
Guided by a state-registered polar navigation specialist, you’ll discover and explore breathtakingly scenic polar landscapes and scenery.
All the necessary equipment will be provided for you on board.

Let yourself be seduced by the unrivalled sensations of being surrounded by cold water. When weather and environmental conditions permit, enjoy an invigorating cold-water immersion in a swimsuit directly from the ship’s marina. An intense and stimulating experience, perfect for seeking thrills and enjoying the energizing sensation that follows the body’s warming up after the swim.

Captains, expedition leaders, experienced naturalist guides, lecturers, wildlife photographers, personalities from the world of art, science, culture and gastronomy… Experts share their passions with you on board or on land.
Captains
Your captain is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of your journey on board. An expert in navigating polar or tropical waters, their announcements punctuate your day. And when wildlife appears on the horizon, do not hesitate to accept their invitation to join the outer decks for magnificent observations. Gala dinners are also unmissable opportunities to meet your captain and share with them your passion for travel.
Expedition leaders
Alongside the captain, the expedition leader conducts your exploration. They supervise the team of naturalist guides, ensure the safety of the proposed experiences, and adjust the highlights of your journey according to the navigation conditions, to reveal all the riches of these fascinating ecosystems.
Photo ambassadors
During some trips, having renowned photographers on board offers you the unique opportunity to participate in workshops, and conferences, and receive personalised advice to enhance your images.
Activity guides
Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, polar hiking on foot or snowshoes, cross-country skiing, dog sledding… Whether it’s for an introduction or to deepen your practice, experience immersive activities led by certified guides, ambassadors of local cultures and communities.
Guests and partners
Dancers, musicians, writers, journalists, researchers, adventurers… Experts and prestigious partners share their passion, whether it is artistic or scientific.
Speakers
Art historians, journalists, ethnologists, naturalists… Every journey is a unique opportunity to learn more about the regions visited.

Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun.

Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as enjoy a variety of shows, concerts and performances by professional dancers and musicians.
When the night comes alive
Concerts, dance performances, or film screenings: every night on board is a promise of wonder and sharing of emotions.

Enjoy a drink in our outdoor lounge area with 50 seats and a view of the sea and the pool bridge.

Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with a wide range of technical and casual ready-to-wear and equipment, with or without PONANT personalization. It also features unique souvenirs to extend the journey back home, as well as jewelry, accessories and luxury items. Opening hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

On board the sister ships (Le Boreal, L’Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial) and PONANT EXPLORERS, the reception desk and the excursion desk are arranged side by side to facilitate all your requests.
Reception: our receptionists can accommodate you 24 hours a day on all our ships (from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Le Ponant) to answer all your needs, such as room service, etc.
The excursion office: the excursion team is available at all times to tell you about the onshore programmes, organise group or private excursions and to manage transfers at the start or end of the cruise.
On Le Ponant, the receptionist will answer all your questions about excursions.

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.

In partnership with SOTHYS™ and Davines®, the spa offers a wide range of treatments, massages, hairdressing services, as well as a sauna and a fitness room perfect for self-care and well-being.

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views.

Provided in partnership with KÉRASTASE®, L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL® or DAVINES®, our hairdressing salons offer a complete range of top quality treatments designed to strengthen, nourish and reinvigorate hair’s shine and brilliance. Our stylists are available to serve all your styling, highlighting, colouring, cutting and tailored hair advice needs.
Your staterllm attendant is at your disposal to provide a laundry service. It takes 24 to 48 hours to wash and iron your clothes. Only an ironing service can be provided on the same day. Dry cleaning is not possible, so we kindly ask you to only give us clothes that can be washed with water.
** These services are chargeable and billed directly to your cabin account.
Ships are non-smoking, even on accommodation balconies. Smoking is only allowed in designated outdoor areas of the ship.
Electrical plug adapters are provided on board, they are available at the reception.
European Standard Sockets
The 220 volt 50 hertz alternating current is distributed by sockets meeting European standards. Onboard power is 200 volt AC (European standard) and 110 volt AC (North American standard). For safety reasons, hair irons and clothes irons cannot be used in staterooms. Please note that on Le Ponant, 110 volt AC is only available in stateroom bathrooms.
Children under one (1 year old / 12 months) are not permitted on PONANT EXPLORATIONS cruises.
On Classic cruises, children are permitted from one (1 year old), with a maximum of five children aged one to six (1 to 6 years old) on board each voyage.
Children aged four years and older are welcome at the Kids’ Club when the service is offered on board.
In all cases and at all times, both on board or on land, children and young minors are the full and total responsibility of their parents or accompanying adults.
The languages spoken on board are French and English. The signage is in French and English. On some cruises, crew members also speak other languages.
To reach a correspondent around the world, a satellite communication system is available to you. The cost of communications is charged directly to your account (pricing depends on the navigation zone). Calls from your correspondents can be transferred directly to your accommodation or to any common area on the ships. You can also send and receive faxes. Contacting reception.
You have free Wi-Fi internet access on board all ships (cabins and common areas). On the Sisterships (L’Austral, Le Lyrial, The Boréal, Le Soléal), one or more computers are available to you in the leisure areas. Thanks to the Starlink network provided by Marlink, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP guarantees you quality Wi-Fi access, regardless of the location and navigation conditions.
There is a doctor on board available to the passengers on all our ships:
Medical Consultations
Consultations, medical and surgical procedures, laboratory tests or medical imaging examinations (radiology) carried out on board by the doctor or nurse are subject to charges. The price may vary depending on the time and location of the consultation (at the onboard hospital or in the cabin). The cost of all procedures is displayed in the waiting room. Guests are also required to pay for any medications.
The ship’s doctor is unable to provide medical certificates and prescriptions. Only reports and invoices are issued, which can be used by the guest to claim a refund from their health insurance if their policy allows it.
Special Medical Treatment
If you have a special treatment, please inform the reservation service at the time of your registration, indicate it on the information form filled out before departure, then inform the crew on board at the time of boarding and bring your specific medications for the duration of the cruise.
Seasickness
Our ships (with the exception of Le Ponant and the Spirit of Ponant) are equipped with stabilisers fitted with dynamic fins that adapt to the movements of the ship. This system allows for anticipation and compensation for pitch and roll to provide great stability. Guests anticipating seasickness experience reduced symptoms and are surprised not to be inconvenienced.
Technical Accessories
We recommend that you bring a ski mask, sunglasses, walking sticks, a waterproof backpack, binoculars, a technical watch, a mosquito net for the face (in the Arctic), and a waterproof pouch. These accessories are also available for purchase at the onboard shop.
Dress Code
We recommend wearing casual and elegant outfits, cocktail attire for gala evenings, and white or black and white attire for the Officers’ evening. Shorts and bermudas are not allowed in the evening at gourmet restaurants.
Expedition Cruise
For an expedition cruise, pack practical clothing and comfortable shoes. During your polar cruises, a polar parka in your size will be provided and boots in your size will be loaned to you.
If you follow a specific diet (vegetarian, diabetic, low calorie, gluten-free, allergy…), it is essential to specify it when making your reservation. You will then receive adapted menus throughout your cruise.
Only the Sisterships, the PONANT Explorers, Paul Gauguin and Le Commandant Charcot have been designed to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility.
Despite these arrangements, each passenger must be able to be autonomous or travel with a companion who can provide all the necessary assistance during their journey. If a person is not deemed sufficiently fit to travel safely, the company reserves the right to refuse their boarding. Landings in difficult areas or on zodiacs are subject to the approval of the captain, always with the passenger’s well-being and safety in mind.
Every season, we offer a wide range of cruises with ‘no single supplement’: you thus benefit from a double stateroom to yourself, at no extra cost. The onboard atmosphere is conducive to meeting and interacting with other guests, and the crew ensures your well-being and integration on board. Discover the cruises by consulting the single page offered.
A complete offer (excluding Spirit of PONANT and La Désirade¹)
SERVICES INCLUDED ON ALL OUR CRUISES
SERVICES INCLUDED DEPENDING ON THE TYPE OF CRUISE/SHIP
Attentive and discreet, your butler offers you a fully personalized service.
The butler service is reserved for passengers traveling in one of the suites located on deck 6 aboard the Sisterships, as well as in all suites of the Shipowner, Deluxe Suites, Privilege Suites, and Prestige Suites located on deck 6 aboard the PONANT EXPLORERS.
Our app accompanies you in your preparations and during your stay on board. Find the services offered and the information that facilitates your journey.
Are you soon boarding with us?
Thanks to its app, PONANT accompanies you in your travel preparations, and then during your stay on board. Find our services and information that will make your cruise even easier.
Prepare your cruise with peace of mind
Once on board, the PONANT app makes all your procedures easier
Download the application
The companion of your next journey
Download on the App Store
Download on Google Play
Required Android version: 5.0 and later Required iOS version: 12.4 and later





