Guest of Honour 
Guest Speaker 
Diving 
Wellness 
Deluxe Stateroom
20% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
Pearls of the Caribbean
Fort-de-France - Fort-de-France
Dates:
25/11/2022
to
3/12/2022
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Serenity and tranquillity... Two words that encapsulate the essence of this unique cruise, in partnership with Le Tigre Yoga Club and with the exceptional presence of Elodie Garamond, yoga instructor and founder of Le Tigre Yoga Club, and Leila Nasri, naturopath.
Over one week, you will have the chance to explore the elements, your emotions and your body, during introductory workshops, exchanges with our wellness professionals, and outdoor activities. A complementary retreat, offering a denser spiritual practice, will also be available for those wishing to take their quest for personal fulfilment and exploration of the elements even further.
PONANT brings you an itinerary to the heart of the most enchanting islands in the Caribbean Sea. Board on Le Dumont-d'Urville for a 9-day cruise combining long white-sand beaches and the easy Creole way of life.
From Fort-de-France, the capital of Martinique, Le Dumont-d'Urville will set sail to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Bequia Island, the “whale-hunting island,” and its wild and unspoiled coastline. You will enjoy the lively atmosphere of Port Elizabeth, the island’s main town.
After a call at Grenada, your sailing yacht will anchor in the Tobago Cays National Park. This rosary of islands bound together by the most beautiful coral reef in the West Indies, will reveal its incredible underwater wildlife and its secret coves.
You will then island hop gently towards Saint Lucia and its two majestic rocky peaks soaring straight from the sea, a unique location listed as UNESCO World Heritage site. You will finally reach Fort-de-France. Make sure to visit one of its renowned rum distilleries!
An experienced diving instructor is on board for the entire cruise, enabling you to safely enjoy swimming and scuba diving.
Ref : U251122
Your itinerary
In partnership with LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB and with the exceptional presence of Elodie Garamond, founder of the TIGRE YOGA CLUB, yoga teacher and Leila Nasri, naturopath. An invitation to experience peace during a...
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Your trip in detail
Our partner
LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB
During this spiritual interlude, where serenity, calm and pleasure are the order of the day, you will have the opportunity to go further in your quest for personal fulfilment during a complementary yoga retreat. You will be guided day by day through body practices, meditations and lectures to better understand and feel the energy of the elements. A unique, immersive and progressive experience in which everyone can take part (whatever their level of yoga!).
"The only journey that counts is the one we make without moving, inside ourselves." René Barjavel
Find out moreChoose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects flights and takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE BELLOT
LE LYRIAL
- New
LE BOUGAINVILLE
- New
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
22/6/2023 to the 10/7/2023
LE BOUGAINVILLE
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24h room service
- Inclusive Wi-Fi Internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- 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
Select your stateroom category
Élodie Garamond
The story begins in 2013 when Elodie Garamond, a Parisian communications expert, decided to make her passion and yoga lifestyle into a career.
Supported by her family and associated with her brother and father-in-law, she launched body and soul into opening the Tigre Yoga Club. Elodie imagined this living space as a bubble of wellbeing revolving around five key areas: Yoga, Pilates & other disciplines, Meditation & Relaxation, Consultations, and Massages & Therapies.
In February 2019, Elodie produced her second book entitled Du Chaos naissent nos étoiles (from chaos are born our stars) published by Editions Flammarion in which she recounts with humour and sincerity her own journey with all its doubts and moments of happiness! At the same time, she found the energy to support worthy causes close to her heart: she came up with the concept and organised the Women Spirit Festival in 2017 and is involved with the Rafael Institute’s ‘La Maison de l’après-cancer’ in offering hospital carers free courses in yoga and meditation. She is also a member of the NGO Elisecare for which she designed a post-trauma yoga-therapy and meditation programme as part of the Peace and Resilience plan implemented in several refugee camps around Mosul. She also regularly travels to Iraq to give free training sessions to psychologists in charge of women who are victims of sexual violence, and child soldiers.
Elodie and her team are convinced of the merits of spreading the Yoga Lifestyle more widely, with an effective and transparent method of teaching. Committed to upholding the need for yoga rooms in times of crisis, she was elected President of the Union of Yoga Professionals in January 2021 and has pushed open many doors to get yoga recognised in France.
Languages spoken: French, English and Spanish
Photo credit: Pascal Ito © Flammarion
Leila Nasri
Leila has always been passionate about understanding humans, living beings and health in all its dimensions. With a scientific background, and in a quest for human-friendly care techniques, she trained in India, in Auroville for 6 years. She returns every year to deepen techniques exploring the body and mind. Among these techniques are yoga, meditation, voice and sound healing, breath-work techniques, but also the different disciplines of massages and body work and energy healing. Leila is an explorer of the connection between body and emotions through the techniques of emotional integration, mind-body work and other techniques of inner growth.
Committed to the concept of autonomy, she turned to Holistic Naturopathy, a discipline in which she has been training future practitioners for more than 10 years. She supervises and trains healthcare and counselling professionals in Naturopathy and Breath- work techniques. This exciting approach makes it possible to connect all the human dimensions and to restore autonomy to everyone. A clear pedagogy and an always individualized support helps an inner movement toward a holistic balance.
Supporting many cases of burn-out during individual sessions, Leila is committed to tracing the source of each bodily, psychic, or emotional imbalance. Working with companies, she strives to create strategies to prevent burnout, while helping organizations create a fulfilling work environment through workshops, training, conferences and seminars. She also leads immersive seminars, sharing her passion for meditation, personal growth and the exploration of inner resources.
Languages spoken: French, English and Arabic
Photo credit: Elia Kuhn
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Élodie Garamond
The story begins in 2013 when Elodie Garamond, a Parisian communications expert, decided to make her passion and yoga lifestyle into a career.
Supported by her family and associated with her brother and father-in-law, she launched body and soul into opening the Tigre Yoga Club. Elodie imagined this living space as a bubble of wellbeing revolving around five key areas: Yoga, Pilates & other disciplines, Meditation & Relaxation, Consultations, and Massages & Therapies.
In February 2019, Elodie produced her second book entitled Du Chaos naissent nos étoiles (from chaos are born our stars) published by Editions Flammarion in which she recounts with humour and sincerity her own journey with all its doubts and moments of happiness! At the same time, she found the energy to support worthy causes close to her heart: she came up with the concept and organised the Women Spirit Festival in 2017 and is involved with the Rafael Institute’s ‘La Maison de l’après-cancer’ in offering hospital carers free courses in yoga and meditation. She is also a member of the NGO Elisecare for which she designed a post-trauma yoga-therapy and meditation programme as part of the Peace and Resilience plan implemented in several refugee camps around Mosul. She also regularly travels to Iraq to give free training sessions to psychologists in charge of women who are victims of sexual violence, and child soldiers.
Elodie and her team are convinced of the merits of spreading the Yoga Lifestyle more widely, with an effective and transparent method of teaching. Committed to upholding the need for yoga rooms in times of crisis, she was elected President of the Union of Yoga Professionals in January 2021 and has pushed open many doors to get yoga recognised in France.
Languages spoken: French, English and Spanish
Photo credit: Pascal Ito © Flammarion
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Diving & initiation dive
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 1 star CMAS or the PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 20 metres.
- If two Stars CMAS or PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Process of the initiation dives (novice divers)
Before your initiation dive, your instructor will show you the equipment and will explain to you how to communicate underwater using hand gestures and how to breathe through a regulator. Once in the water, equipped with your material, you will learn how to breathe through your regulator on the surface for a couple of minutes. When your instructor feels you are ready, he will immerse you in water for about 20 minutes to a depth of 6 metres maximum.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Fauna and flora of the Caribbean Sea
The fauna of the Caribbean Sea is very varied. During the different dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as French angel fish, queen angel fish, spotted drums, puffer fish, parrots fish, and pelagic fauna such as spotted eagle ray, barracudas, horse eyes jackfish, as well as fixed wildlife such as gorgonians and barrel sponges.
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
|
PORTS OF CALL |
DIVES (for certified divers) |
Discover scuba diving (for beginners) |
|
Martinique - Fort-de-France |
NO |
NO |
|
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Port Elizabeth, Bequia Island |
YES |
YES |
|
Grenada - Saint George’s |
YES |
NO |
|
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Mayreau Island |
YES |
YES |
|
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Tobago Cays |
NO |
NO |
|
Barbados - Bridgetown |
YES |
NO |
|
Saint Lucia - Pigeon Island |
YES |
YES |
|
Saint Lucia - Soufrière |
YES |
NO |
|
Guadeloupe - Les Saintes |
YES |
YES |
|
Martinique Fort-de-France |
NO |
NO |
Rates
This activity must be pre-booked before departure with your travel advisor. Any reservation made after this deadline will only be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
Price per person
- Initiation dive:
- Introductory dive (1 dive): €80
- Ponant Discovery Pack (2 dives): €150
Certified dive:
- Exploration (1 dive): €80
- Excellence Package (3 dives): €225
- Passion Package (6 dives): €420
RETREAT LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB
Le Tigre is an original concept created by Elodie Garamond in 2013. A brand of Wellness synonymous with the art of living yoga, carrying the mission of accompanying a process of personal development through gentle or dynamic disciplines, care and consultations, in person or digitally.
As part of the partnership with LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB, a Yoga and Wellness retreat is proposed for sale during this cruise during which you can participate in activities provided by two professionals of this club.
LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB
Created by Élodie Garamond and her family in 2013, LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB is today a network of studios, a brand of Yoga Lifestyle products, a training academy and a VOD Yoga Play platform to take care of your emotional and physical health every day.
Throughout Eastern culture the tiger is the totem animal symbolising strength and self-confidence, and is also the guide through the jungle.
LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB is the expression of this double mission: to accompany each person, day after day, on the path of your physical and spiritual awakening in order to reconnect with vital energy.
To make the right diagnosis, to take care of each visitor, to listen to them, to understand through their first words or gestures how to bring them well-being, sometimes without them even knowing how to express a rational need or share a yogic culture. Guiding them through the urban jungle of all the soft psycho-corporal practices towards those that correspond to them, in their physical, emotional and energetic state of the moment, such is the mission of LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB.
During this spiritual interlude, where serenity, calm and pleasure are the order of the day, you will have the opportunity to go further in your quest for personal fulfilment during a complementary yoga retreat. You will be guided day by day through body practices, meditations and lectures to better understand and feel the energy of the elements. A unique, immersive and progressive experience in which everyone can take part (whatever their level of yoga!).
"The only journey that counts is the one we make without moving, inside ourselves." René Barjavel
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- In partnership with LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB and with the exceptional presence of Elodie Garamond, founder of the TIGRE YOGA CLUB, yoga teacher and Leila Nasri, naturopath.
- An invitation to experience peace during a journey inward, between introductory sessions to yoga and meditation, wellness workshops, and mindfulness walks.
- The possibility of taking your personal and emotional exploration even further during an additional paid retreat - see complementary services, during the cruise.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Saint Lucia and its two rocky peaks.
- A true picture-postcard of the West Indies: long white-sand beaches, colourful seabeds, and the easy Creole way of life.
- Discover the Grenadine Islands, considered one of the world’s most stunning archipelagos.
- On Mayreau Island, privatisation of a beach for the day and barbecue.
- Exceptional seabed with possibility of observing turtles, barracuda, spiny lobsters and parrot fish.
- Multiple opportunities to swim in crystal-clear waters.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.
Ports of Call & Excursions
25 November 2022 - Fort-de-France
Embarkation 25/11/2022 from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Departure 25/11/2022 at 9:00 pm
Located on the western coast of Martinique, Fort-de-France will amaze you by the splendour of its bay, a magnificent cut-out in the coastline, considered as one of the most beautiful in the world. At the harbour mouth, on its strip of land, fort Saint-Louis overlooks the capital city of Martinique. If you climb up to it, you can see some breath-taking views. Saint Louis Cathedral and the Schoelcher library bear witness to a secular history, intimately linked to the island’s story. Why not try some fresh coconut at the colourful Grand Marché. Two really pleasant places you can take a breather in, right in the heart of the city, are the garden of Balata and the Aimé Césaire park.
26 November 2022 - Port Elizabeth, Bequia Island
Arrival 26/11/2022 early morning
Departure 26/11/2022 evening
In the heart of the Caribbean, Bequia is the second-largest of 32 islands that make up the country of St Vincent and the Grenadines. You will love the lively and picturesque atmosphere of Port Elizabeth, the island’s main town. From the port, a promenade lined with beautiful traditional houses, landscaped gardens and small restaurants runs along the shoreline. It leads to Princess Margaret Beach, a wild beach where Princess Margaret herself has stayed and which seems to emerge directly from the tropical forest. From rainforest to lush meadows and long stretches of sand, Bequia will offer you a natural setting that is conducive to lovely walks and to spending time on the beach.
27 November 2022 - Saint George's, Grenada
Arrival 27/11/2022 early morning
Departure 27/11/2022 early evening
Delicately set in the curve of a bay on the west coast of Grenada, Saint George’s lively commercial fishing harbour is especially colourful when the boats are being loaded with fruit and vegetables destined for neighbouring islands and when all the little fishing boats return from their day out at sea. This “spice island” capital is an excellent base for visiting the surrounding natural sites : its picturesque coast or the artisanal producers of chocolate and nutmeg, Grenada’s gold. Five kilometres (3 miles) to the south, you will be able to visit Grande Anse and Morne Rouge, two long sandy beaches.
28 November 2022 - Mayreau Island
Arrival 28/11/2022 early morning
Departure 28/11/2022 late evening
Among the string of paradisiac islands with their sandy beaches that form the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines archipelago, Mayreau is the smallest. Its peaceful and idyllic atmosphere, far from the madding crowd, invites you to relax. On shore, enjoy a shaded and fully equipped beach from which to go snorkelling if you’d like to observe the colourful fish around the coral sitting at the foot of the rocks that stretch across the bay.
29 November 2022 - Tobago Cays
Arrival 29/11/2022 early morning
Departure 29/11/2022 evening
Scattered between St Vincent and Grenada, the Tobago Cays comprises five little islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tabac and Jamesby. This rosary of uninhabited cays in the southern West Indies is a marine park whose turquoise lagoons provide a home and safe haven for some outstanding marine fauna, including peaceful green turtles. Girded and united by a coral reef, these secluded islands are a peaceful paradise for divers, swimmers and snorkellers.
30 November 2022 - Bridgetown
Arrival 30/11/2022 early morning
Departure 30/11/2022 evening
Bridgetown, the bustling capital of Barbados, is located on the island's south-west coast. Its historic quarters are UNESCO World Heritage sites and contain prime examples of British colonial architecture, which you will see between the postcard-perfect fishing harbour and St Ann's Fort. Streets shaded by palms and flamboyant trees lead you to the Anglican cathedral church of St Michael, built from coral stone, the Barbados Museum and George Washington House, a Georgian-style mansion. There'll be plenty of time to relax on the Caribbean beaches of Carlisle Bay, a few paces from the old town centre.
1 December 2022 - Pigeon Island Beach
Arrival 1/12/2022 early morning
Departure 1/12/2022 midday
Linked to St Lucia by a sand causeway, Pigeon Island has been a designated National Park since 1979. On this wild and pristine land, you will be inspired to take pleasant walks amid the tropical vegetation and through a magnificent tree-filled garden. You will also be irresistibly drawn to the two pretty little sandy beaches nestling on the southern side and bathed by crystal-clear waters. While snorkelling, be sure to explore the underwater world that is teeming with life, along the rocks lining this peninsula’s coast. You will thoroughly enjoy the calm and beauty of this place, which is really conducive to simply relaxing.
1 December 2022 - Soufrière
Arrival 1/12/2022 early afternoon
Departure 1/12/2022 early evening
Nestled in the crook of a breath-taking bay, the former capital of St Lucia is brimming with attractions. Soufrière is famous for The Pitons, volcanic spires that tower over the entrance to the town. In the vicinity of the lush botanical gardens, you will be able to enjoy the curative powers of the Diamond Falls mineral baths. From the beach at the north end of the bay, you can set off to explore the reefs that are home to stunning gardens of sea fans at the foot of the cliffs that plunge into the sea.
2 December 2022 - Les Saintes
Arrival 2/12/2022 early morning
Departure 2/12/2022 early evening
During the feast of All Saints in 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered this archipelago of nine islands that he named "The Saints". Today, only two of them are inhabited. Terre de Haut, in the east, is dominated by the Morne Mire hill; at the summit stands Fort Napoleon, paying homage to the islands' history. In the heart of the botanical garden, shared by iguanas and cacti, there is an exceptional view of the Baie des Saintes, one of the most beautiful in the world. The long shady beach of Pompierre, where it is forbidden to drop anchor, is a peaceful place for a swim, while Pain de Sucre Beach offers wonderful opportunities for snorkelling. On the island, don’t forget to taste the local speciality, the “tourment d’amour”, a cake made with coconut.
3 December 2022 - Fort-de-France
Arrival 3/12/2022 early morning
Disembarkation 3/12/2022 at 7:00 am
Located on the western coast of Martinique, Fort-de-France will amaze you by the splendour of its bay, a magnificent cut-out in the coastline, considered as one of the most beautiful in the world. At the harbour mouth, on its strip of land, fort Saint-Louis overlooks the capital city of Martinique. If you climb up to it, you can see some breath-taking views. Saint Louis Cathedral and the Schoelcher library bear witness to a secular history, intimately linked to the island’s story. Why not try some fresh coconut at the colourful Grand Marché. Two really pleasant places you can take a breather in, right in the heart of the city, are the garden of Balata and the Aimé Césaire park.
Catamaran sunset cruise
From the pier, board the catamaran and enjoy a journey into the heart of the Caribbean Sea. The mid-afternoon departure for this tour will give you the chance to watch the sunset from your boat.
Bequia is considered by many as one of the most beautiful dive spots in the Caribbean Sea. This archipelago shelters 30 easily accessible sites with crystal-clear waters offering exceptional views: caves and holes, walls and overhangs, hiding beautiful coral formations and marine life.
While sailing the crystalline waters, pass by “Moonhole”, a private community known for the lifestyle of its inhabitants: completely in harmony with nature. The lodgings are built directly into the landscape and most feature neither windows nor doors. After your discovery of this “Flintstones-esque” village, you will head to one of the neighbouring islands, Isle à Quatre where you will have some free time to relax or swim while watching the sunset over the horizon.
Finally, a 40-minute sail will take you back to your ship.
- This tour involves few walking times with some steps. We recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes, take a warm jacket for the return after sunset, take a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. The snorkelling equipment is included in this tour. Participants must be able to get on and off the boat and to get into the water using a ladder. The catamaran is equipped with toilets, ladder and a changing room. You can reach the beach swimming from the catamaran. Refreshments are included on your tour. There will be a wet landing at the beach. This tour is limited to 70 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Catamaran & snorkelling
From the pier, board the catamaran and enjoy a journey into the heart of the Caribbean Sea.
Bequia is considered by many as one of the most beautiful dive spots in the Caribbean Sea. This archipelago shelters 30 easily accessible sites with crystal-clear waters offering exceptional views: caves and holes, walls and overhangs, hiding beautiful coral formations and marine life.
While sailing the crystalline waters, pass by “Moonhole”, a private community known for the lifestyle of its inhabitants: completely in harmony with nature. The lodgings are built directly into the landscape and most feature neither windows nor doors. After your discovery of this “Flintstones-esque” village, you will head to Petite Nevis, a region emblematic of whaling. There, you will drop anchor and be able to truly enjoy the seascape or even partake in a bit of snorkelling.
Finally, a 30-minute sail will take you back to your ship.
- This tour involves little walking with some steps. We recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes, take a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. The snorkelling equipment is included in this tour. Participants must be able to get on and off the boat and to get into the water using a ladder. The catamaran is equipped with toilets, ladder and a changing room. Refreshments are included on your tour. There will be a wet landing at the beach. This tour is limited to 70 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
The secrets of the Spice Island
Grenada is an island of many hidden treasures: picturesque coastlines shaped by volcanic relief, isolated beaches and estates sheltering cocoa and nutmeg plantations. Spices have pride of place here, hence the nickname “Spice Island”.
From the quayside, you will board your coach and head up the west coast (on the Caribbean Sea) towards Gouyave, a small fishing town.
Arriving in Gouyave, you will visit the nutmeg cooperative to discover how what the locals call “Grenada gold” is harvested, processed and exported. In this well-protected site, you will go back a hundred years in time. See as the long procedure used to process this precious spice is still to this day, mainly in the agile hands of the “Mammas” (women). No modern machine or conveyor belt is used.
Then, you will visit the “Diamond Chocolate Factory”, set up in 2013 in a former rum distillery built in the 18th century by French monks. The visit will enable you to understand all the stages involved in the processing of cacao beans, from their harvesting on trees to the fermentation, sorting, drying, roasting, grinding and finally refining, to make a fine, 100% pure and unsweetened chocolate. In July 2016, the “Jouvay” organic chocolate was ranked among the 10 best chocolates in the world by National Geographic. The visit of this site ends with a tour of the cacao tree garden and a chocolate tasting accompanied by a fresh fruit juice.
Continuing towards the north, you will go to Sauteurs to discover “Leaper’s Hill” where, in 1651, the Kalinagos, the last indigenous people of Grenada, preferred to jump off a 40-metre cliff rather than become prisoners of the French army.
You will then head for the restaurant of a plantation located in the north-east of the island where you will be served a buffet of traditional Creole dishes for lunch. After the meal, you will discover the River Antoine Rum Distillery, created in 1784 and the oldest rum production site still in activity today in all of the Caribbean islands.
Finally, at Grenville, you will leave the east coast and cross the heart of Grenada to the Grand Etang National Park for an immersion in the interior of the island, between tropical rainforest and plantations before reaching Saint George's.
- This excursion is a panoramic tour that includes some walking on uneven ground with some steps. This excursion is not suitable for people who cannot walk around 300 metres and who cannot get on or off the bus without assistance. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourselves from the sun. Photography is not authorised inside the Gouyave factory. Lunch is included in your excursion and also includes a bottle of water and a glass of wine. Due to the seasonal character of the plantations, the sites visited may be more or less active depending on the pace of harvesting; as a consequence, some machines may either be in operation or idle at the time of the visits.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Grenada aboard your zodiac
Grenada is an island of many hidden treasures: picturesque coastlines shaped by volcanic relief, isolated beaches and estates sheltering cocoa and nutmeg plantations. Spices have pride of place here, hence the nickname “Spice Island”.
A short drive away from the quayside, is the Port Louis marina where your zodiacs will be waiting.
After being given the safety instructions and your equipment, you will begin your adventure as the pilot of your own zodiac. This outing in open water and into the marine park will enable you to discover Grenada’s coast and various landscapes.
After around 30 minutes of pilotage, you will stop for a snorkelling excursion (45 minutes) to discover the underwater statues installed by the English artist Jason De Cayres Taylor. In May 2006, he created the world’s first underwater sculpture park in the waters of Grenada.
After this experience, you will set off again aboard your zodiac to explore the marine world of the Caribbean coast before returning to the marina.
Finally, you will arrive back at the quayside and your ship.
- This excursion includes a little walking. We recommend that you wear your swimsuit underneath your clothes, bring along a towel from the ship and protect yourselves from the sun. The zodiacs are fitted with 25 HP outboard motors and can accommodate up to two people. A safety vest is provided and must be worn during navigation. Equipment, fins, mask, snorkel and snorkelling vests are included for each participant. For the embarkation aboard the zodiacs, you will have to remove your shoes and remain bare foot. Aquashoes are accepted if the sole is clean of all aggressive residues. It is compulsory for participants aged under 18 years old to be accompanied by an adult. The maximum weight limit for two people per Zodiac is 180 kg (395 lbs). This excursion is not recommended for pregnant women, people with neck, back, hip or back problems or those suffering from cardiac or respiratory problems. Participants will have to sign a responsibility waiver.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Nutmeg & chocolate
Grenada is an island of many hidden treasures: picturesque coastlines shaped by volcanic relief, isolated beaches and estates sheltering cocoa and nutmeg plantations. Spices have pride of place here, hence the nickname “Spice Island”.
From the quayside, you will board your coach for a 50-minute drive towards the north of the island. In Grenada, all along the Caribbean coast, fishing villages come one after another and the beaches stretch out in long coral and volcanic ribbons.
Arriving in Gouyave, you will visit the nutmeg cooperative to discover how what the locals call “Grenada gold” is harvested, processed and exported. In this well-protected site, you will go back a hundred years in time. See as the long procedure used to process this precious spice is still to this day, mainly in the agile hands of the “Mammas” (women). No modern machine or conveyor belt is used.
Then, you will visit the “Diamond Chocolate Factory”, set up in 2013 in a former rum distillery built in the 18th century by French monks. The visit will enable you to understand all the stages involved in the processing of cacao beans, from their harvesting on trees to the fermentation, sorting, drying, roasting, grinding and finally refining, to make a fine, 100% pure and unsweetened chocolate. In July 2016, the “Jouvay” organic chocolate was ranked among the 10 best chocolates in the world by National Geographic. The visit of this site ends with a tour of the cacao tree garden and a chocolate tasting accompanied by a fresh fruit juice.
Finally, you will arrive back at the quayside and your ship.
- This excursion includes some walking on uneven ground with some steps. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourselves from the sun. This excursion is not suitable for people who cannot walk around 300 metres and who cannot get on or off the bus without assistance. Photography is not authorised inside the Gouyave factory. Due to the seasonal character of the plantations, the sites visited may be more or less active depending on the pace of harvesting; as a consequence, some machines may either be in operation or idle at the time of the visits.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
4WD adventure
During this tour, discover the interior of the island, which for the most part is inaccessible by other forms of transport.
From the pier, board your four-wheel drive vehicles and start your adventure. You will meander through the lush countryside to explore the sugar estates with their timeless Great Houses and maybe have the chance to see the Barbadian Green Monkey.
Then, you will follow the rugged Eastern Shoreline with its 1,000-foot cliff edge.
Next, descend to the unspoilt East Coast road and feel the sea spray caused by the pounding Atlantic Ocean. A photo stop will take place to enjoy the panoramic view and a refreshment.
The convoy will continue its journey through quaint villages of the Scotland District, before heading over to the Platinum Coast, known for its up-market five-star properties.
At the end of the tour, return to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves few walking times with some steps. The four-wheel drive vehicles are open and equipped with bench-style seats facing each other. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a jacket and protect yourself from the sun. A refreshment is included in the tour. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or persons suffering from back and/or neck problems. This tour is limited to 20 participants. A driver-guide on each vehicle will give comments through a headset microphone.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Catamaran & snorkelling cruise
From the pier, board your coach for a 15-minute transfer to your catamaran. After receiving the safety instruction, you will start your cruise on the crystal-clear waters along the coastline of Barbados.
You will have the opportunity to take a swim and snorkel over a shipwreck or reef with shoals of colourful tropical fish. Back in the sun on deck or relax in the shady cabin and enjoy the scenery. A short distance away, you will go to a sandy beach for a relaxing time. You can swim, snorkel or just walk along the shore.
Finally, you will get back to your ship.
- This tour involves few walking times with some steps. No shoes will be allowed on the vessel. We recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes, take a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. The snorkel equipment is included. Participants must be able to get in/out of the water by means of a ladder without assistance. The guests have swim to reach the beach. The fauna and flora observation is not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 50 participants. A minimum of 25 participants is required to operate this tour. An open bar with some alcoholic beverages is included, alcohol will however only be served after snorkeling.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Markets & Flower Forest botanical gardens
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to Bridgetown’s markets. This tour will allow you to immerse yourself in the local market life and interact up-close with the locals.
The tour will begin with a stop at the Cheapside Market, with its wide variety of tropical and colourful local fruits and vegetables on display.
You will then enjoy a brief guided walk through the city to the fish market, where you will get a first-hand look at the fish caught off these shores. Observe how the fish mongers scale, de-bone and slice their catches in the presence of waiting consumers.
From here you will make your way across the heart of the country to Flower Forest, where the flora and fauna of the island can be seen in their natural splendour. You will stroll on a winding path through a unique forest - created by nature but gently nudged by man. The variety of plants and species, along with the infinite shades of green interspersed by colours that only nature can produce, make it a difficult job to choose what to look at first! Mature trees provide shade throughout the garden along the many pathways. Beneath the trees is an assortment of unique shrubs and flowering herbs. A leisurely stroll through the gardens will also reward you with panoramic views of the famous East Coast of Barbados.
Finally, you will enjoy a scenic ride to a local rum shop where you can taste some local foods and rum mixes before reaching your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 4.5 km (2.8 miles) of walking on different surfaces, like cobblestone, grass and gravel with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. A refreshment is included in the tour. The market mostly offers fruit, vegetable and spices. US Dollars and Barbados Dollars are accepted, no credit cards. This tour is limited to 60 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Soufriere by sea & land
During this tour, discover the tropical island’s natural beauty.
From the pier, board your catamaran for a cruise along the west coast, passing beautiful bays. Time will be allowed for swimming in one of them. Time will be allowed for swimming at one of the bays before reaching to Soufrière.
Once arriving, you will disembark the catamaran and board a bus for the short drive to Soufrière, referred to as the Caribbean's only "drive-in" volcano. This historic site is the result of volcanic eruptions some 300,000 years ago. The Soufrière is an active volcano, where you will have the occasion to observe the Sulphur springs. Smell the sulphur as you enter the gates and inhale the natural scents (it has been proven that the sulphur water has many medicinal properties). See the sulphuric fumaroles and steam jet escape from the soil whereas the sulphurous water of the natural baths boil at a temperature which can reaching 338 °F (170 °C).
After a short drive, you will reach Morne Coubaril Estate for a guided tour hof this sprawling plateau farm and have your lunch. Producer of cocoa, coffee, coconuts, bananas and an assortment of other tropical products, this working plantation has been in the business of cultivation since the 17th century. It maintains some of the same harvesting and processing practices that have served it in good stead for hundreds of years.
After your lunch, you will continue to the Botanical Gardens and Diamond Baths, where the exuberant vegetation spreads its colour among a profusion of exotic flowers. The garden was a famous spot for Napoléon's wife, Joséphine. Marvel at the tropical plants carefully arranged along the sides of the pathway leading to the waterfall.
Finally, you will return to your ship, at anchor in Soufrière Bay.
- This tour involves walking times with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended for persons suffering from hip, back, knee nor respiratory problems. Your beverage package includes 1 beer or soft drink and a coffee. Children must be at least 5 years old to participate and be accompanied by a parent. This tour is limited to 80 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Magical Soufrière
From the pier board your coach for a leisurely drive through the town of Soufrière, which is considered as the only volcano accessible by car.
Then you will visit the Sulphur Springs, referred to as the Caribbean's only "drive-in" volcano. This historic site is the result of volcanic eruptions some 300,000 years ago. The Soufrière is an active volcano, where you will have the occasion to observe the Sulphur springs. Smell the sulphur as you enter the gates and inhale the natural scents (it has been proven that the sulphur water has many medicinal properties). You can admire the sulphuric fumaroles and steam jet outgoing from the floor whereas the sulphurous water of the natural baths boil at a temperature which can reaching 338 °F (170 °C).
After a short drive, you will reach Morne Coubaril Estate, a sprawling plateau farm. Producer of cocoa, coffee, coconuts, bananas and an assortment of other tropical products, you will enjoy a guided tour of this working plantation has been in the business of cultivation since the 17th century. It maintains some of the same harvesting and processing practices that have served it in good stead for hundreds of years.
Enjoy refreshment and relax, before heading back to Soufrière dock and your ship.
- This tour involves few walking times on uneven and sometimes slippery ground with 32 steps to negotiate at Sulphur Spring. We recommend you wear good walking shoes, comfortable clothes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended for persons suffering from back problems. Please note that tour is operated by minibuses which comfort is very basic but driving time is short in between venues.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Les Saintes by boat & swimming
From the pier, board your motorboat and start your scenic journey around the isles of les Saintes. The archipelago of les Saintes consists of nine islands spread between Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas main islands.
Head first to the Marigot bay, a place in Terre-de-Haut Island well-known by local fishermen, before going around to reach îlet à Cabrit and other islets.
Sailing along the southern coast of Terre-de-Haut Island, you will then reach the small uninhabited island of Grand Ilet, a paradise for tortoises and seabirds. Following a stop at La Coche, continue to Terre-de-Bas where you can see an old pottery workshop, as well as tortoises and pelicans who settled there.
Back to Terre-de-Haut, you will then sail to the Pain de Sucre (Sugar loaf), a geological formation caused by an ancient basalt flow. There, enjoy some free time for bathing, snorkelling and having a refreshment, before sailing back to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves very limited walking. We recommend you wear comfortable nonslip shoes, have your swimsuit under your clothes, take a towel and a bottle of water from the ship, and protect yourself from the sun. Mask and snorkel will be provided. Refreshments are included in the tour. The motorboat is equipped with removable roof and a ladder, but no toilets. Passengers must be able to embark and disembark without assistance. The fauna and flora observation is not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 12 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Walking tour & Napoleon fortress
From the pier, you will meet your guide to discover the secrets of Terre-de-Haut.
After a short walk, you will board a mini-bus and drive to the Vauban-style Fort Napoléon which overlooks ‘La Baie des Saintes’. It was built in the mid-1800's as a tribute to Napoleon III on the site of the original Fort Louis, destroyed by the English in 1809.
From here, you can either go on the guided tour or explore the fort on your own. You will then stroll down to a shipyard in Marigot Bay to see how they build traditional boats, before heading for the centre of Bourg.
Before returning to your ship, you will have the opportunity to taste the famous "Tourment d'Amour", a small round tart with a soft coconut, banana, guava or cherry filling depending on the season, which originates from these islands. A tasting will be organised according to the staff availabilities.
During this excursion, a snack of local fruit juices and manioc crackers will be served.
- This excursion involves around two hours of walking on uneven ground on different levels with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is limited to 20 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Dumont-d'Urville
Le Dumont-d’Urville belongs to a new generation of ships fitted with innovative equipment and designed to be environmentally friendly, and which come equipped with lounges that are largely open to the exterior, an outdoor swimming pool and a Blue Eye, a multisensorial underwater lounge. Everything is in place for an extraordinary cruise experience. It's now possible to depart for adventure to the most remote places on the planet onboard a ship offering luxury services.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
Wellness
Our Wellness cruises are truly peaceful interludes entirely focused on well-being, a blend of discovery and relaxation. Depending on the theme of each cruise, different activities (yoga, pilates, qi gong, massage, meditation, treatments, visits to the most sumptuous spas, visits to thermal baths) may be included in your itinerary, inviting you to unwind and recharge. Over the course of exceptional PONANT cruises, in the company of leading experts and in the comfort of our luxurious ships, take the time to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
TRANSFER TO THE PIER OF FORT-DE-FRANCE
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Fort-de-France
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local English-speaking representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be directly transferred to the pier for embarkation. The duration of the transfer is approximately 45 minutes.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer by coach from the airport to the port.
- Services of a local English-speaking hostess at the airport.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and hostess.
- Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration of the transfer may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : €30
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
RETREAT LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB
As part of the partnership with LE TIGRE YOGA CLUB, a Yoga and Wellness retreat is offered during this cruise during which you can participate in activities provided by two professionals of this club.
The package spread over the entire duration of the cruise includes:
- Two yoga and meditation classes per day (6 days) with Elodie Garamond, founder of the Tiger Yoga Club
- 1 mini naturopathy and well-being conference per day (6 days) such as facial yoga, eye yoga, guided walk, breathing exercises, fascias therapeutic workout ... with a naturopathic yoga teacher Leila Nasri.
- 1 dinner and 1 lunch in group per cruise
- Equipment provided: 1 mat + 2 Tiger bricks
Le Tigre is an original concept created by Elodie Garamond in 2013. A brand of Wellness synonymous with the art of living yoga, carrying the mission of accompanying a process of personal development through gentle or dynamic disciplines, care and consultations, in person or digitally.
Our DNA: wellness as an art of living.
Our brand: the best teams, courses, massages and products.
Our manifesto: to take care of oneself is to take care of one's emotional and physical health, and to develop inner listening and empathy for oneself.
Our values: listening, balance, fulfilment, respect.
Total : €300
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
Catamaran sunset cruise
From the pier, board the catamaran and enjoy a journey into the heart of the Caribbean Sea. The mid-afternoon departure for this tour will give you the chance to watch the sunset from your boat.
Bequia is considered by many as one of the most beautiful dive spots in the Caribbean Sea. This archipelago shelters 30 easily accessible sites with crystal-clear waters offering exceptional views: caves and holes, walls and overhangs, hiding beautiful coral formations and marine life.
While sailing the crystalline waters, pass by “Moonhole”, a private community known for the lifestyle of its inhabitants: completely in harmony with nature. The lodgings are built directly into the landscape and most feature neither windows nor doors. After your discovery of this “Flintstones-esque” village, you will head to one of the neighbouring islands, Isle à Quatre where you will have some free time to relax or swim while watching the sunset over the horizon.
Finally, a 40-minute sail will take you back to your ship.
- This tour involves few walking times with some steps. We recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes, take a warm jacket for the return after sunset, take a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. The snorkelling equipment is included in this tour. Participants must be able to get on and off the boat and to get into the water using a ladder. The catamaran is equipped with toilets, ladder and a changing room. You can reach the beach swimming from the catamaran. Refreshments are included on your tour. There will be a wet landing at the beach. This tour is limited to 70 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Catamaran & snorkelling
From the pier, board the catamaran and enjoy a journey into the heart of the Caribbean Sea.
Bequia is considered by many as one of the most beautiful dive spots in the Caribbean Sea. This archipelago shelters 30 easily accessible sites with crystal-clear waters offering exceptional views: caves and holes, walls and overhangs, hiding beautiful coral formations and marine life.
While sailing the crystalline waters, pass by “Moonhole”, a private community known for the lifestyle of its inhabitants: completely in harmony with nature. The lodgings are built directly into the landscape and most feature neither windows nor doors. After your discovery of this “Flintstones-esque” village, you will head to Petite Nevis, a region emblematic of whaling. There, you will drop anchor and be able to truly enjoy the seascape or even partake in a bit of snorkelling.
Finally, a 30-minute sail will take you back to your ship.
- This tour involves little walking with some steps. We recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes, take a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. The snorkelling equipment is included in this tour. Participants must be able to get on and off the boat and to get into the water using a ladder. The catamaran is equipped with toilets, ladder and a changing room. Refreshments are included on your tour. There will be a wet landing at the beach. This tour is limited to 70 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
The secrets of the Spice Island
Grenada is an island of many hidden treasures: picturesque coastlines shaped by volcanic relief, isolated beaches and estates sheltering cocoa and nutmeg plantations. Spices have pride of place here, hence the nickname “Spice Island”.
From the quayside, you will board your coach and head up the west coast (on the Caribbean Sea) towards Gouyave, a small fishing town.
Arriving in Gouyave, you will visit the nutmeg cooperative to discover how what the locals call “Grenada gold” is harvested, processed and exported. In this well-protected site, you will go back a hundred years in time. See as the long procedure used to process this precious spice is still to this day, mainly in the agile hands of the “Mammas” (women). No modern machine or conveyor belt is used.
Then, you will visit the “Diamond Chocolate Factory”, set up in 2013 in a former rum distillery built in the 18th century by French monks. The visit will enable you to understand all the stages involved in the processing of cacao beans, from their harvesting on trees to the fermentation, sorting, drying, roasting, grinding and finally refining, to make a fine, 100% pure and unsweetened chocolate. In July 2016, the “Jouvay” organic chocolate was ranked among the 10 best chocolates in the world by National Geographic. The visit of this site ends with a tour of the cacao tree garden and a chocolate tasting accompanied by a fresh fruit juice.
Continuing towards the north, you will go to Sauteurs to discover “Leaper’s Hill” where, in 1651, the Kalinagos, the last indigenous people of Grenada, preferred to jump off a 40-metre cliff rather than become prisoners of the French army.
You will then head for the restaurant of a plantation located in the north-east of the island where you will be served a buffet of traditional Creole dishes for lunch. After the meal, you will discover the River Antoine Rum Distillery, created in 1784 and the oldest rum production site still in activity today in all of the Caribbean islands.
Finally, at Grenville, you will leave the east coast and cross the heart of Grenada to the Grand Etang National Park for an immersion in the interior of the island, between tropical rainforest and plantations before reaching Saint George's.
- This excursion is a panoramic tour that includes some walking on uneven ground with some steps. This excursion is not suitable for people who cannot walk around 300 metres and who cannot get on or off the bus without assistance. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourselves from the sun. Photography is not authorised inside the Gouyave factory. Lunch is included in your excursion and also includes a bottle of water and a glass of wine. Due to the seasonal character of the plantations, the sites visited may be more or less active depending on the pace of harvesting; as a consequence, some machines may either be in operation or idle at the time of the visits.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Grenada aboard your zodiac
Grenada is an island of many hidden treasures: picturesque coastlines shaped by volcanic relief, isolated beaches and estates sheltering cocoa and nutmeg plantations. Spices have pride of place here, hence the nickname “Spice Island”.
A short drive away from the quayside, is the Port Louis marina where your zodiacs will be waiting.
After being given the safety instructions and your equipment, you will begin your adventure as the pilot of your own zodiac. This outing in open water and into the marine park will enable you to discover Grenada’s coast and various landscapes.
After around 30 minutes of pilotage, you will stop for a snorkelling excursion (45 minutes) to discover the underwater statues installed by the English artist Jason De Cayres Taylor. In May 2006, he created the world’s first underwater sculpture park in the waters of Grenada.
After this experience, you will set off again aboard your zodiac to explore the marine world of the Caribbean coast before returning to the marina.
Finally, you will arrive back at the quayside and your ship.
- This excursion includes a little walking. We recommend that you wear your swimsuit underneath your clothes, bring along a towel from the ship and protect yourselves from the sun. The zodiacs are fitted with 25 HP outboard motors and can accommodate up to two people. A safety vest is provided and must be worn during navigation. Equipment, fins, mask, snorkel and snorkelling vests are included for each participant. For the embarkation aboard the zodiacs, you will have to remove your shoes and remain bare foot. Aquashoes are accepted if the sole is clean of all aggressive residues. It is compulsory for participants aged under 18 years old to be accompanied by an adult. The maximum weight limit for two people per Zodiac is 180 kg (395 lbs). This excursion is not recommended for pregnant women, people with neck, back, hip or back problems or those suffering from cardiac or respiratory problems. Participants will have to sign a responsibility waiver.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Nutmeg & chocolate
Grenada is an island of many hidden treasures: picturesque coastlines shaped by volcanic relief, isolated beaches and estates sheltering cocoa and nutmeg plantations. Spices have pride of place here, hence the nickname “Spice Island”.
From the quayside, you will board your coach for a 50-minute drive towards the north of the island. In Grenada, all along the Caribbean coast, fishing villages come one after another and the beaches stretch out in long coral and volcanic ribbons.
Arriving in Gouyave, you will visit the nutmeg cooperative to discover how what the locals call “Grenada gold” is harvested, processed and exported. In this well-protected site, you will go back a hundred years in time. See as the long procedure used to process this precious spice is still to this day, mainly in the agile hands of the “Mammas” (women). No modern machine or conveyor belt is used.
Then, you will visit the “Diamond Chocolate Factory”, set up in 2013 in a former rum distillery built in the 18th century by French monks. The visit will enable you to understand all the stages involved in the processing of cacao beans, from their harvesting on trees to the fermentation, sorting, drying, roasting, grinding and finally refining, to make a fine, 100% pure and unsweetened chocolate. In July 2016, the “Jouvay” organic chocolate was ranked among the 10 best chocolates in the world by National Geographic. The visit of this site ends with a tour of the cacao tree garden and a chocolate tasting accompanied by a fresh fruit juice.
Finally, you will arrive back at the quayside and your ship.
- This excursion includes some walking on uneven ground with some steps. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourselves from the sun. This excursion is not suitable for people who cannot walk around 300 metres and who cannot get on or off the bus without assistance. Photography is not authorised inside the Gouyave factory. Due to the seasonal character of the plantations, the sites visited may be more or less active depending on the pace of harvesting; as a consequence, some machines may either be in operation or idle at the time of the visits.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
4WD adventure
During this tour, discover the interior of the island, which for the most part is inaccessible by other forms of transport.
From the pier, board your four-wheel drive vehicles and start your adventure. You will meander through the lush countryside to explore the sugar estates with their timeless Great Houses and maybe have the chance to see the Barbadian Green Monkey.
Then, you will follow the rugged Eastern Shoreline with its 1,000-foot cliff edge.
Next, descend to the unspoilt East Coast road and feel the sea spray caused by the pounding Atlantic Ocean. A photo stop will take place to enjoy the panoramic view and a refreshment.
The convoy will continue its journey through quaint villages of the Scotland District, before heading over to the Platinum Coast, known for its up-market five-star properties.
At the end of the tour, return to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves few walking times with some steps. The four-wheel drive vehicles are open and equipped with bench-style seats facing each other. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a jacket and protect yourself from the sun. A refreshment is included in the tour. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or persons suffering from back and/or neck problems. This tour is limited to 20 participants. A driver-guide on each vehicle will give comments through a headset microphone.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Catamaran & snorkelling cruise
From the pier, board your coach for a 15-minute transfer to your catamaran. After receiving the safety instruction, you will start your cruise on the crystal-clear waters along the coastline of Barbados.
You will have the opportunity to take a swim and snorkel over a shipwreck or reef with shoals of colourful tropical fish. Back in the sun on deck or relax in the shady cabin and enjoy the scenery. A short distance away, you will go to a sandy beach for a relaxing time. You can swim, snorkel or just walk along the shore.
Finally, you will get back to your ship.
- This tour involves few walking times with some steps. No shoes will be allowed on the vessel. We recommend you wear your swimsuit under your clothes, take a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. The snorkel equipment is included. Participants must be able to get in/out of the water by means of a ladder without assistance. The guests have swim to reach the beach. The fauna and flora observation is not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 50 participants. A minimum of 25 participants is required to operate this tour. An open bar with some alcoholic beverages is included, alcohol will however only be served after snorkeling.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Markets & Flower Forest botanical gardens
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to Bridgetown’s markets. This tour will allow you to immerse yourself in the local market life and interact up-close with the locals.
The tour will begin with a stop at the Cheapside Market, with its wide variety of tropical and colourful local fruits and vegetables on display.
You will then enjoy a brief guided walk through the city to the fish market, where you will get a first-hand look at the fish caught off these shores. Observe how the fish mongers scale, de-bone and slice their catches in the presence of waiting consumers.
From here you will make your way across the heart of the country to Flower Forest, where the flora and fauna of the island can be seen in their natural splendour. You will stroll on a winding path through a unique forest - created by nature but gently nudged by man. The variety of plants and species, along with the infinite shades of green interspersed by colours that only nature can produce, make it a difficult job to choose what to look at first! Mature trees provide shade throughout the garden along the many pathways. Beneath the trees is an assortment of unique shrubs and flowering herbs. A leisurely stroll through the gardens will also reward you with panoramic views of the famous East Coast of Barbados.
Finally, you will enjoy a scenic ride to a local rum shop where you can taste some local foods and rum mixes before reaching your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 4.5 km (2.8 miles) of walking on different surfaces, like cobblestone, grass and gravel with steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. A refreshment is included in the tour. The market mostly offers fruit, vegetable and spices. US Dollars and Barbados Dollars are accepted, no credit cards. This tour is limited to 60 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Soufriere by sea & land
During this tour, discover the tropical island’s natural beauty.
From the pier, board your catamaran for a cruise along the west coast, passing beautiful bays. Time will be allowed for swimming in one of them. Time will be allowed for swimming at one of the bays before reaching to Soufrière.
Once arriving, you will disembark the catamaran and board a bus for the short drive to Soufrière, referred to as the Caribbean's only "drive-in" volcano. This historic site is the result of volcanic eruptions some 300,000 years ago. The Soufrière is an active volcano, where you will have the occasion to observe the Sulphur springs. Smell the sulphur as you enter the gates and inhale the natural scents (it has been proven that the sulphur water has many medicinal properties). See the sulphuric fumaroles and steam jet escape from the soil whereas the sulphurous water of the natural baths boil at a temperature which can reaching 338 °F (170 °C).
After a short drive, you will reach Morne Coubaril Estate for a guided tour hof this sprawling plateau farm and have your lunch. Producer of cocoa, coffee, coconuts, bananas and an assortment of other tropical products, this working plantation has been in the business of cultivation since the 17th century. It maintains some of the same harvesting and processing practices that have served it in good stead for hundreds of years.
After your lunch, you will continue to the Botanical Gardens and Diamond Baths, where the exuberant vegetation spreads its colour among a profusion of exotic flowers. The garden was a famous spot for Napoléon's wife, Joséphine. Marvel at the tropical plants carefully arranged along the sides of the pathway leading to the waterfall.
Finally, you will return to your ship, at anchor in Soufrière Bay.
- This tour involves walking times with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended for persons suffering from hip, back, knee nor respiratory problems. Your beverage package includes 1 beer or soft drink and a coffee. Children must be at least 5 years old to participate and be accompanied by a parent. This tour is limited to 80 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Magical Soufrière
From the pier board your coach for a leisurely drive through the town of Soufrière, which is considered as the only volcano accessible by car.
Then you will visit the Sulphur Springs, referred to as the Caribbean's only "drive-in" volcano. This historic site is the result of volcanic eruptions some 300,000 years ago. The Soufrière is an active volcano, where you will have the occasion to observe the Sulphur springs. Smell the sulphur as you enter the gates and inhale the natural scents (it has been proven that the sulphur water has many medicinal properties). You can admire the sulphuric fumaroles and steam jet outgoing from the floor whereas the sulphurous water of the natural baths boil at a temperature which can reaching 338 °F (170 °C).
After a short drive, you will reach Morne Coubaril Estate, a sprawling plateau farm. Producer of cocoa, coffee, coconuts, bananas and an assortment of other tropical products, you will enjoy a guided tour of this working plantation has been in the business of cultivation since the 17th century. It maintains some of the same harvesting and processing practices that have served it in good stead for hundreds of years.
Enjoy refreshment and relax, before heading back to Soufrière dock and your ship.
- This tour involves few walking times on uneven and sometimes slippery ground with 32 steps to negotiate at Sulphur Spring. We recommend you wear good walking shoes, comfortable clothes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended for persons suffering from back problems. Please note that tour is operated by minibuses which comfort is very basic but driving time is short in between venues.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Les Saintes by boat & swimming
From the pier, board your motorboat and start your scenic journey around the isles of les Saintes. The archipelago of les Saintes consists of nine islands spread between Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas main islands.
Head first to the Marigot bay, a place in Terre-de-Haut Island well-known by local fishermen, before going around to reach îlet à Cabrit and other islets.
Sailing along the southern coast of Terre-de-Haut Island, you will then reach the small uninhabited island of Grand Ilet, a paradise for tortoises and seabirds. Following a stop at La Coche, continue to Terre-de-Bas where you can see an old pottery workshop, as well as tortoises and pelicans who settled there.
Back to Terre-de-Haut, you will then sail to the Pain de Sucre (Sugar loaf), a geological formation caused by an ancient basalt flow. There, enjoy some free time for bathing, snorkelling and having a refreshment, before sailing back to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves very limited walking. We recommend you wear comfortable nonslip shoes, have your swimsuit under your clothes, take a towel and a bottle of water from the ship, and protect yourself from the sun. Mask and snorkel will be provided. Refreshments are included in the tour. The motorboat is equipped with removable roof and a ladder, but no toilets. Passengers must be able to embark and disembark without assistance. The fauna and flora observation is not guaranteed. This tour is limited to 12 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Walking tour & Napoleon fortress
From the pier, you will meet your guide to discover the secrets of Terre-de-Haut.
After a short walk, you will board a mini-bus and drive to the Vauban-style Fort Napoléon which overlooks ‘La Baie des Saintes’. It was built in the mid-1800's as a tribute to Napoleon III on the site of the original Fort Louis, destroyed by the English in 1809.
From here, you can either go on the guided tour or explore the fort on your own. You will then stroll down to a shipyard in Marigot Bay to see how they build traditional boats, before heading for the centre of Bourg.
Before returning to your ship, you will have the opportunity to taste the famous "Tourment d'Amour", a small round tart with a soft coconut, banana, guava or cherry filling depending on the season, which originates from these islands. A tasting will be organised according to the staff availabilities.
During this excursion, a snack of local fruit juices and manioc crackers will be served.
- This excursion involves around two hours of walking on uneven ground on different levels with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is limited to 20 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.
The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.
The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.
PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.
*Excluding Expedition cruises.
According to availability, price per passenger.