The Authentic Cruise Company

Itinerary

Day 1: Colón
Day 2: Bocas del Toro
Day 3: Bocas del Toro
Day 4: Puerto Limón
Day 5: San Andrés Island
Day 7: Water Caye, Isla Utila
Day 8: Ensenada
Day 9: Santo Tomás de Castilla
Day 10: Rio Dulce
Day 11: Belize City
Day 1: Colón

The provincial capital of Colón, beside the canal’s Atlantic entrance, is named for the Spanish-language surname of Christopher Columbus, though the Americans called it Aspinwall in the 19th century.. The city was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad and named Aspinwall for one of the railway engineers. Following completion in 1855, Colon gained in importance, which was furthered by the plans for an isthmian canal. During the time of the French canal attempt, a fire in 1885 burned the city nearly to the ground and left thousands of people homeless. Colon was rebuilt in the architectural style then popular in France. Buildings from that era plus the ones constructed by Americans between 1904 and 1914 are still in use today, although the majority is on the verge of collapse. In addition to its importance as a port, Colon boasts the world’s second largest duty-free zone, known as Zona Libre, which is contained in a huge fortress like, walled-off area with giant international stores. However, most of the merchandise is sold in bulk to commercial businesses throughout the country.

Day 2: Bocas del Toro

Translated as Mouths of the Bull, Bocas del Toro is both a province and an archipelago in the northwest Caribbean Sea in Panama. The archipelago contains 10 larger islands (including the main Isla Colon, where the town of Bocas del Toro is situated), 50 cays and 200 tiny islets. The region contains Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, Panama’s first national marine park that covers over 32,000 acres and protects forests, mangroves, monkeys, sloths, caiman, crocodile and 28 species of amphibians and reptiles. The park also contains Playa Larga, an important nesting site for sea turtles. With all there is to see in this region, visitors should also pause to enjoy the pristine white beaches lined with palm trees that lie all along the surrounding clear waters of the Chiriqui Lagoon

Day 3: Bocas del Toro

Translated as Mouths of the Bull, Bocas del Toro is both a province and an archipelago in the northwest Caribbean Sea in Panama. The archipelago contains 10 larger islands (including the main Isla Colon, where the town of Bocas del Toro is situated), 50 cays and 200 tiny islets. The region contains Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park, Panama’s first national marine park that covers over 32,000 acres and protects forests, mangroves, monkeys, sloths, caiman, crocodile and 28 species of amphibians and reptiles. The park also contains Playa Larga, an important nesting site for sea turtles. With all there is to see in this region, visitors should also pause to enjoy the pristine white beaches lined with palm trees that lie all along the surrounding clear waters of the Chiriqui Lagoon

Day 4: Puerto Limón

Christopher Columbus became Costa Rica’s first tourist when he landed on this stretch of coast in 1502 during his fourth and final voyage to the New World. Expecting to find vast mineral wealth, he named the region Costa Rica (“rich coast”). Imagine the Spaniards’ surprise eventually to find there was none. Save for a brief skirmish some six decades ago, the country did prove itself rich in a long tradition of peace and democracy. No other country in Latin America can make that claim. Costa Rica is also abundantly rich in natural beauty, managing to pack beaches, volcanoes, rain forests, and diverse animal life into an area the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. It has successfully parlayed those qualities into its role as one the world’s great ecotourism destinations. A day visit is short, but time enough for a quick sample.

Day 5: San Andrés Island

The San Andres and Providencia archipelago comprises Colombia’s Caribbean islands, lying some 290 miles north of the South American coast. Palm-dotted San Andres is only eight miles long and two miles wide. It is noted for beautiful sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and good diving sites. At one time the island belonged to Britain and, according to local lore; it was a favorite hideout for the legendary pirate Henry Morgan. In 1822, San Andres came under the control of Colombia. In recent years the original population has greatly increased due to unrestricted immigration from the mainland. There are also Chinese and Middle Eastern communities. The official language is Spanish but English is widely spoken, especially in shops and hotels. The island is best seen via the scenic ring road that offers views of coves, beaches and palm groves. In the interior stands a Baptist church dating from 1847, and the attraction at the southern end is the Hoyo Soplador, a geyser-like hole where the sea shoots jets of water intermittently into the air during the right wind and sea conditions. On the island’s northern tip lies the main town and commercial center, known by the same name as the island. San Andres Town is surrounded by beaches, with small hotels lining the waterfront. Being a duty-free zone, the town often gets crowded with Colombian shoppers who come from the mainland looking for foreign-made goods at duty-free prices. To reach the town from the tender landing requires an approximate 20-minute taxi ride. However, it is not uncommon for drivers to choose the longer way around the island for a higher fare. From the downtown waterfront, boats offer trips to Johnny Cay, a tiny island just a stone’s throw across from town and known for its powdery white sand beach and rustic, laid-back atmosphere. San Andres Island’s main attraction is its location off the beaten track, as well as pretty scenery, sandy beaches and clear, warm waters. Tourism infrastructure is limited. Pier Information The ship is scheduled to anchor off El Cove. Guests will be taken ashore via the ship’s tenders. The landing site is about a 20-minute drive from San Andres Town. There are plenty of taxi drivers offering their services. Please be sure to agree on the fare before setting out (the one-way fare should be around $30). Keep in mind that not all taxi drivers speak English. Shuttle buses are not available. Shopping Most shops in town carry duty-free imports. At New Point Plaza you will find shops selling local souvenir items and jewelry including emeralds. Some stores close between 12:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. The local currency is the peso. Many shops will accept U.S. dollars and major credit cards. Cuisine Outdoor cafés are available in town if you fancy a cold drink or a quick snack. Other Sites All of the island’s sights are covered on the San Andres Island Drive. Beaches Swimmers, snorkelers and sun seekers will find beach facilities right in town. One of the hotels also features water sport rentals. Johnny Cay can be reached via local boats departing from the waterfront. However, be aware that winds are fairly strong between November and January, which may cause delays for your return boat ride. There are no tourist facilities on Johnny Cay. Private cars/vans are not available in this port, except for taxis.

Day 7: Water Caye, Isla Utila
Day 8: Ensenada

Ensenada is a port city on the Pacific coast of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula. At its heart is the harbor and waterfront area with the Malecón promenade. Once a casino, the Riviera de Ensenada is now a cultural center. The nearby Museum of History and the Regional Historical Museum trace the area’s people and past. Migrating gray whales visit the waters offshore. Southwest of the city is La Bufadora blowhole.

Day 9: Santo Tomás de Castilla

Guatemala’s short Caribbean shoreline doesn’t generate the buzz of those of neighboring Belize and Mexico. The coast weighs in at a scant 74 mi (123 km), and this mostly highland country wears its indigenous culture on its sleeve and has historically looked inland rather than to the sea. You’ll be drawn inland, too, with a variety of shore excursions. This is the land of the Maya, after all. But there’s plenty to keep you occupied here in the lowlands. Tourist brochures tout the Caribbean coast as “The Other Guatemala”. The predominantly indigenous and Spanish cultures of the highlands give way to an Afro-Caribbean tradition that listens more closely to the rhythms of far-off Jamaica rather than taking its cue from Guatemala City. Think of it as mixing a little reggae with your salsa.

Day 10: Rio Dulce
Day 11: Belize City

Belize City, a coastal gem, seamlessly blends history and modern vibrancy. Colonial architecture graces lively streets, narrating tales of Mayan roots and cultural richness. A welcoming atmosphere emanates from friendly locals, and diverse festivals celebrate Belize’s heritage. The city serves as a gateway to natural wonders, from serene river rides to the renowned Belize Barrier Reef. Pristine beaches like Old Belize Beach invite relaxation. Culinary delights abound, showcasing Belizean flavours. In this enchanting city, every smile, historical landmark, and cultural celebration embodies the warmth and charm that make Belize City an unforgettable destination.

Owner's Suite
Grand Deluxe Suite
Privilege Suite
Prestige Suite
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Staterooms
Deluxe Stateroom
Owner's Suite

Services provided

  • 24h room service
  • Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
  • Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Selection of Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
  • Minibar included
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Electronic safe
  • Direct line telephone
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
  • 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
  • Two ADA staterooms

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

  • Private return transfer

  • Priority boarding
  • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
  • Butler service
  • An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
  • A lounge with armchair, double sofa bed, and second TV
  • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A bathroom with shower, balneo bathtub and smart mirror
  • A one-hour spa treatments per person (for 2 people) in the well-being space, chosen from the facial and body treatments on offer
  • Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar
  • A private 45 m² terrace: 2 deckchairs, jacuzzi, and lounge corner with sofa and armchair
  • Two panoramic sliding bay windows

Grand Deluxe Suite

Services provided

  • 24h room service
  • Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
  • Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Selection of Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
  • Minibar included
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Electronic safe
  • Direct line telephone
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
  • 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
  • Two ADA staterooms

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

  • Priority boarding

  • Butler service
  • An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
  • A bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A lounge with sofa bed convertible to a double bed (160 x 190 cm) or a single bed (80 x 190 cm) , armchair, and second TV
  • A bathroom with shower and Baleno bathtub
  • A private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and four-seater dining table
  • Two panoramic sliding bay windows

Privilege Suite

Services provided

  • 24h room service
  • Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
  • Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Selection of Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
  • Minibar included
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Electronic safe
  • Direct line telephone
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
  • 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
  • Two ADA staterooms

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

  • Priority boarding
  • Butler service
  • One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A lounge corner with chaise longue and armchair
  • A bathroom with shower
  • A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
  • A panoramic sliding bay window
Prestige Suite

Services provided

  • 24h room service
  • Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
  • Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Selection of Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
  • Minibar included
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Electronic safe
  • Direct line telephone
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
  • 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
  • Two ADA staterooms

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

  • Priority boarding

  • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
  • Butler service
  • An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day
  • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door
  • Two bathrooms with shower
  • A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs
  • Two panoramic sliding bay windows

Deluxe Suite

Services provided

  • 24h room service
  • Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
  • Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Selection of Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
  • Minibar included
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Electronic safe
  • Direct line telephone
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
  • 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
  • Two ADA staterooms

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

  • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival

  • One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm)
  • A bathroom with shower
  • A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs
  • A panoramic sliding bay window

Prestige Staterooms

Services provided

  • 24h room service
  • Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
  • Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Selection of Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
  • Minibar included
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Electronic safe
  • Direct line telephone
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
  • 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
  • Two ADA staterooms

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

  • One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV
  • One chaise longue
  • A bathroom with shower
  • A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
  • A panoramic sliding bay window
Deluxe Stateroom

Services provided

  • 24h room service
  • Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
  • Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Selection of Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
  • Minibar included
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Electronic safe
  • Direct line telephone
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
  • 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
  • Two ADA staterooms

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

  • One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV
  • A bathroom with shower
  • A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs
  • A glazed panoramic swing door and a rectangular window
Le Nautilus
Grill Restaurant
Room Service
Le Nautilus

A la carte meals are served at the table in the gastro restaurant. At lunch, a selection of dishes inspired by contemporary French brasseries will be offered. At dinner, it is time to sample the grand traditions of French fine dining, with menus to go with one of the best wines from our cellar, as recommended by our sommelier.

Towards the rear of deck 4 you’ll find a panoramic restaurant large enough to accommodate all our passengers at one sitting. Offering a different concept than on our other ships, this space is open to the exterior and serves buffets of salads, desserts and cheeses. Our discreet and attentive staff provide a table service for hot meals.

  • 260 m2 (2,800 ft²)
  • Wine cellar
  • Deck 4
Grill Restaurant

An exterior grill restaurant on deck 3 offering a relaxed ambiance and atmosphere:

  • Capacity: 70
  • Views out over the pool deck
  • Grilled meats and a variety of salads and desserts
Room Service

Whether you wish to have breakfast in the privacy of your stateroom, savour a snack in the middle of the day or enjoy your dinner in an intimate setting, our Room Service is available for you. Have a gourmet interlude and treat yourself from a varied menu at any time of day or night.

Excursions
The Hydraulic Platform
Excursions

Excursions & land itineraries

Each itinerary has been thoughtfully created by our teams to offer you a complete excursion experience. You can discover the hidden gems of the regions you visit in line with your interests.

Hidden creeks, ancient cities, UNESCO world heritage sites… the world reveals its hidden gems as you journey along the routes taken by travellers. In keeping with our ethos “Accessing the worlds treasures by sea”, we offer a wide choice of land excursions during all our cruises (except for expeditions). Chosen by our PONANT experts for their cultural value and historic interest, these excursions can last a few hours or a few days. If you need to stay on land overnight, we take care of your stay from start to finish, until you rejoin your ship. These longer excursions mean you can discover the unmissable sites of the region you are visiting, like Cuzco in Peru for example or the Mekong Delta in Vietnam.

You can access these trips by pre-booking two months before your departure date.

The Hydraulic Platform

  • Deck 2
  • Much easier onboard access than on any other cruise ship
  • Easier disembarking and embarking by Zodiac when participating in expeditions
  • Swimming and bathing in the sea and various nautical sports, such as kayaking and paddle-boarding
Panoramic Lounge
The Pool
Lounges & Bars
Theatre
Shop
Leisure Areas
PONANT Studio
Excursion Reception and Office
The Blue Eye
Open Bar
Panoramic Lounge

  • Deck 6
  • Library, internet space, bar, and live entertainment on certain evenings
  • Direct access to the panoramic terrace
The Pool

The outdoor areas on our ships, comfortable and conducive to relaxation, have been designed to merge into the sublime scenery and surroundings of the sea and horizon. There is a heated seawater pool featuring its own sun lounge on the top deck of our sister ships (Le Boréal, L’Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial) and on the third deck of the PONANT EXPLORERS (Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-D’Urville, Le Jacques Cartier and Le Bellot). Le Ponant is equipped with a 400 m² (4,300 ft²) sun deck.

  • A swimming pool offering panoramic views and equipped with a counter-current system
  • A pleasant, attractive sun deck
  • An exterior bar and lounge equipped with armchairs and sofas
Lounges & Bars

The various different lounges allow passengers to meet up and share quality time together.

The main lounge is the ideal place to relax with a drink and enjoy the various activities that have been organised such as dancing classes or theme evenings.

The cosy piano bar is a panorama lounge with breathtaking views of the horizon.

The outside bar is a great space for relaxing and is handy for accessing the swimming pool* and its solarium.

The Main Lounge – Deck 3

  • A 200 m² (2,150 ft²) main lounge
  • Able to accommodate all our passengers at once for moments of shared conviviality, and as a venue for both daytime and evening shows and entertainment
Theatre

The Theatre* is the most unique meeting space on board. It’s the largest space on the ship and regularly accommodates all the passengers. It plays host to shows and entertainment as well as conferences from our experts, naturalist guides and guests of honours. The Theatre makes every cruise unique and enriching thanks to its constant and very accessible events.

Settle comfortably into your seat and enjoy a range of different shows, concerts and performances organised by the professional dancers and musicians onboard.

Special musical evenings, dance evenings and culture and music quizzes are held In the Grand Salon lounge onboard Le Ponant. Additionally, traditional local music concerts, featuring styles such as Corsican polyphony and Caribbean steel band music, are performed out on deck in the open air by bands specially invited onboard for the purpose.

  • 188-seat capacity
  • Cutting edge audio and lighting technology
  • LED stage background wall enabling the projection of ultra-high resolution media
Shop

On board all our ships, a shop is open during sailing. It offers a selection of presents and souvenirs: clothing, jewellery, beauty products, postcards and accessories.

Leisure Areas

Dedicated to leisure and relaxation, the libraries onboard all our ships stock a range of books and board games. This space is also equipped with Wi-Fi connected computers.

The Sisterships and The PONANT Explorers have a special area for children onboard known as the Kids Club. Books, television, board games and consoles (PS4 or Wii™) are all provided for their use and enjoyment.

PONANT Studio

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.

Excursion Reception and Office

On board the sisterships (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 140 m² (1,500 ft²) space
  • A reception/concierge service
  • The excursions desk
  • The onboard administrative services
  • The sales office operated by our Customer Manager
  • Our 50m² (540 ft²) shop selling a line of clothing, jewellery, beauty care products, postcards and various accessories.
  • The facilities accessible to persons with reduced mobility
The Blue Eye

Our ship Le Champlain features a number of spaces designed and arranged to serve your needs and requirements whilst at the same time preserving the privacy of each passenger.

The Blue Eye – Deck 0

  • An underwater lounge
  • Enough room for 40 passengers
Open Bar

From the moment you board and throughout your cruise, your unlimited drinks are included*, at any time of the day. A drink with friends at the bar, refreshments on your return from an excursion or in the calm of your Stateroom’s balcony: enjoy a large selection of beverages (mineral waters, cold drinks, cruise wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea). A selection of premium alcoholic drinks is also available “à la carte”.

*It doesn’t include premium alcoholic drinks indicated in the Bar Menu. It is valid only for individual personal consumption, without limitations.

The Spa
The Hairdressing Salon
The Gym
The Spa

All our ships feature an onboard spa. Equipped with massage cabins, a Turkish bath (Sisterships, Le Paul Gauguin), a sauna (Explorers, Le Commandant Charcot), or a Snow Room (Le Commandant Charcot), the spas offer a wide choice of top-of-the-range treatments provided in association with SOTHYS™, CLARINS (Le Bellot and Le Jacques-Cartier only), BIOLOGIQUE RECHERCHE (Le Commandant Charcot, Le Ponant) and ALGOTHERM (Le Paul Gauguin), leading French spa and wellness centre brands.

Prices and details of services in the PONANT Yacht Spa menu.

The Hairdressing Salon

Provided in partnership with KÉRASTASE® and L’ORÉAL PROFESSIONNEL®, the hairdressing salon offers 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.

The Gym

The gyms on our ships are equipped with the very latest Technogym© equipment and machines. Treadmills, exercise bikes, Kinesis Wall© strength training machines and many other types of equipment are all provided in a laid-back relaxing environment. The wide floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the sea add undeniable charm to the exercise sessions.

Each day also begins with organised morning workout sessions, either out in the open air or in the theatre. These are supplemented by water aerobics in the pool, or in the sea off the beach for PONANT passengers, when the situation allows it.

Ocean Young Explorers
Excursions and Talks
Ocean Young Explorers

Because it’s important to reach new generations and make children aware of environmental protection issues from an early age, PONANT has joined forces with the Maud Fontenoy Foundation to help run its Ocean Explorers club for children. In total this summer, 17 cruises will offer children aged 4 to 13 a programme of activities dedicated to the ocean protection theme.

Raising awareness of oceans protection from an early age

The Maud Fontenoy Foundation is providing PONANT’s activity teams with fun educational kits, activity sheets and videos highlighting why oceans need to be protected. From creative activities (drawing, painting, a giant map of the world to colour in, etc.) to meditation initiation sessions, the programme is very varied. And from 2023, it will also include fun educational workshops on the water cycle, biodiversity, astronomy, and geology.

Excursions and Talks

Children aged 4-13 will have the opportunity to do excursions such as watersports, beach games and swimming, treasure hunts, and even guided tours. For larger groups, a naturalist guide will join the team running the sessions and give a talk on local fauna and flora.

Laundry
Smoking Policy
Power Adapters
Age Restrictions
Languages
Telephone
Wi-Fi
Medical Facilities
Guests with reduced mobility
Packing Tips
Dress Code
Sustainable Development
Special Diets
Laundry

Your stateroom Officer will be able to take care of your laundry**. The washing and ironing of your clothes will take between 24 and 48 hours. Only ironing** can be delivered on the same day. As dry-cleaning is not possible on the ship, please only give us clothes that can be washed in water.

** These services are not free of charge and are billed directly to your stateroom account.

Smoking Policy

Closed spaces such as the lounges, the dining room, the staterooms and the reception are non-smoking areas. We invite you to smoke in designated outdoor parts of the ship.

Power Adapters

Adapters are provided on board, they are available at the reception office of our ships.

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.

Age Restrictions

Children under one year of age shall not be authorised to embark on the ships.

For children aged between 1 and 8 years old, an authorisation to board the ship must be made in writing to PONANT. Subject to agreement, a liability waiver must be completed and returned to the company to validate the registration.

On classic cruises (“yachting”), children are accepted from the age of one, with a maximum of 5 children between 1 and 6 years old on board.

On “expedition” cruises children are accepted from 6 years old (except cruises aboard Le Commandant Charcot) and must be fully independent during all the outside activities organised and during disembarkation in rubber boats, be sufficiently tall to sit on the inflatable sides of the boats, and old enough to understand, and immediately respond to the orders given by the persons in charge. As a result, children’s participation in any activity in an inflatable boat shall be subject to the agreement of the Captain and of the Expedition Head, depending on the sea conditions, and the difficulty of disembarking at each location visited. The ships do not carry Parka’s in children’s sizes. Parents must arrange to bring a suitable Parka for children. In all cases, children and young people under the age of 18 are at all times on board or on land under the full and total responsibility of their parents or carers.

Children aged 4 years or more can be welcomed in the Kid’s Club when the service is offered on board

Languages

The crew are bilingual in French and English. All signage and announcements made are in French and English. On certain cruises, crew members also speak other languages.

Telephone

A satellite telephone system is at your disposal for contacting anyone, anywhere in the world. The cost of the call is added to the stateroom account (€6/minute). Calls that you receive can be transferred directly to your stateroom or to any other communal area on the ship. To receive or send faxes, please see Reception.

Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi internet access is available on all of our ships, in both the staterooms and the communal areas. One or several computers are at your disposal in the recreation centres. Please note that the Wi-Fi connection may be discontinued depending on the navigation area and landscapes that may block the vessel from satellite coverage, especially at high latitudes (no connection possible beyond 80° North or South), or for technical reasons beyond our control.

Medical Facilities

There is a doctor on board available to the passengers on all our ships:

  • The schedules of consultation are listed each day in the log book (emergency consultation 24/7).
  • The Sisterships, PONANT Explorers and Le Commandant Charcot also have a hospital for any small surgery.
  • During the excursions, the passengers are accompanied by a doctor or a nurse.
  • There is a fee for consultations on board . The price may vary according to the time and place of the consultation (hospital or staterooms). You must also pay for medications.
  • The doctor on board is not authorised to distribute sick leaves and prescriptions. Only accounts and invoices are provided which may be used by the passenger to obtain a refund from his/her health insurance if his/her contract allows.

Medical Consultations

There is a charge for medical consultations undertaken by the doctor or nurse on board. The price can vary according to the time and place of the consultation (hospital or stateroom). Any medication must also be paid for by the passenger. If using medications on a regular basis make sure to bring adequate supplies for the duration of your cruise.

Special Medical Treatment

If you have any special treatment, we ask you to inform the reservation service when you register for the cruise, to note it on the information sheet before departure, then inform the on-board crew at the moment of departure and always keep your medication with you for the duration of the cruise.

Seasickness

Our ships (except Le Ponant) have stabilisers equipped with dynamic fins which adapt to the movements of the ship. This system allows the ship to anticipate and compensate for the pitching and tossing of the sea to achieve greater stability. Passengers suffering from seasickness will see their symptoms alleviated and are pleasantly surprised to not feel uncomfortable during their journey. However it is wise to bring travel motion medication with you for peace of mind.

Guests with reduced mobility

Our Sisterships, PONANT EXPLORERS and Le Commandant Charcot were designed for people with reduced mobility in mind:

  • Specially designed staterooms;
  • Access ramps allowing easy movement in communal areas;
  • Posters, signage and stateroom numbers are translated into Braille.

Despite these arrangements, each passenger should be able to be independent or travel with a close family member or friend who can give them whatever assistance they require during their trip.

If a person has not been judged suitably fit for travel in complete safety, the company reserves the right to refuse their embarkation. Disembarkation in difficult places or in a Zodiac® is subject to the approval of the Captain, who will always have the safety and wellbeing of the passenger in mind.

Packing Tips

Technical Accessories

We advise you to equip yourself with a ski mask, sunglasses, walking poles (available to purchase in the shop), a waterproof rucksack, binoculars, a technical watch, a mosquito head net (for the Arctic) and a waterproof pouch.

Dress Code

We advise our passengers to wear casual and elegant outfits at their convenience, and more formal attire for the Captain’s Dinner.

Sustainable Development

Sustainable development is enshrined in the company’s articles of association and has been at the heart of the PONANT project since its inception. Founded over thirty years ago by committed sailors, the company was born out of a desire to share a passion for the oceans and the treasures of the Earth. This responsibility commits us to a respectful dialogue with the environment and the populations we meet and to investing in many fields related to the preservation and development of the natural and cultural heritage of the polar and oceanic regions.

Clean Ships

We were among the first cruise operators in the world to abandon the use of heavy fuels, and our ships are equipped with electric diesel engines and SCR catalytic converters, which enable a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. Our polar exploration ship, Le Commandant Charcot, is a hybrid-electric vessel, propelled by liquefied natural gas (LNG). LNG enables a 25% reduction in carbon emissions, an 85% reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions and a 95% reduction in fine particle emissions. Each time we design a new ship, we equip it with the latest available eco-technologies, enabling us to maintain our position as the cruise industry’s environmental leader, ahead of international regulations in some areas. A commitment recognised by many independent organisations:

  • Our entire fleet is Clean Ship certified by the Bureau Veritas. This certification guarantees that our ships fulfil very precise criteria: emissions levels, waste processing, waste water etc.
  • In 2020, PONANT was recognised as “the cruise operator with the greenest fleet in the world in terms of airborne emissions” by the German NGO, NABU.
  • PONANT was awarded the Prix des Palmes du Tourisme Durable 2020 (Prize for Sustainable Tourism) in the “Voyage” category for the elimination of heavy fuel oil in favour of LS MGO.
  • In 2019, PONANT became the first European cruise company to obtain the North American Green Alliance certificate. This certifies that its members have adopted practices and technologies that are respectful towards the environment.
  • PONANT is also a signatory of the Charte Bleue from Armateurs de France, which commits the maritime sector to act to protect the marine environment.

Wastewater

All of the wastewater is treated by means of processes that exclude the use of chemical products. The recycled water is used to clean the exterior of the ship. The water that is discharged into the sea is treated, drinkable water.

Waste

We have optimised our organisation in order to reduce waste at the source. Waste is nonetheless still produced on board. As of 2020, 60% of this is sorted and recycled, with an objective of 85% set for 2023. We ensure the complete traceability of this waste.

Single-use plastics

We have eliminated the use of single-use plastics (straws, cups, food serving trays, laundry bags etc.). A metallic flask is issued to each passenger on expedition cruises and water fountains are available in the common areas of the ships. We are also developing the bottling of our water in glass bottles.

Special Diets

And so that everyone’s tastes are catered to, special menus are available on request for guests with specific dietary requirements (low-fat, vegetarian, gluten-free, etc).

Deck 7
Deck 6
Deck 5
Deck 4
Deck 3
Deck 7
  • Spa
  • Fitness Room
  • Hair Salon
Deck 6
  • Panoramic Lounge
  • Art Gallery
  • Photo/Video Studio
  • Ocean Young Explorers
  • Privilege Suites
  • Grand Deluxe Suites
  • Deluxe Suites
  • Prestige Suites
  • Prestige Suites
Deck 5
  • Bridge
  • Owner’s Suites
  • Prestige Suites
  • Deluxe Suites
  • Privilege Suites
  • Prestige Suites
Deck 4
  • Restaurant
  • Prestige Staterooms
  • Deluxe Suites
Deck 3
  • Pool
  • Grill
  • Main Lounge
  • Shop
  • Excursion Desk
  • Reception Desk
  • Theatre
  • Medical Centre
  • Staterooms

Get in touch with our team to start planning

Call and speak to a member of our experienced team today on +44 (0)1491 528 988 or email info@authenticcruises.co.uk.

Alternatively, leave your details and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.