Tropical Expedition 
Diving 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
19 m²
2
- Last staterooms
- New
Seychelles to Sri Lanka Expedition
Victoria, Mahé - Colombo
Dates:
4/1/2024
to
19/1/2024
days
nights on board
The Indian Ocean is a huge expanse scattered with thousands of lush islets crowned with immaculate sand, inviting you on an unexpected, intriguing and captivating interlude. From the Seychelles to Sri Lanka via the Maldives, set off aboard Le Jacques-Cartier for an all-new 16-day expedition cruise, featuring wild untouched nature and a cultural mosaic of countless of scents and colours.
Victoria, on the island of Mahé in the Seychelles, will mark the starting point of your immersion into the heart of the Indian Ocean. In this veritable paradise, you will sail among the captivating archipelago’s most idyllic islets. Praslin and its splendid Vallée de Mai nature reserve, a natural sanctuary with biodiversity unlike anywhere else. Then, Aride Island, the northernmost in the Seychelles, floating on the ocean like a preserved paradise where thousands of endemic birds whirl around above the lush canopy. On Curieuse Island, the age-old Aldabra giant tortoises with their majestic gait are fascinating. Finally La Digue, the last port of call in the Seychelles, a playground for many underwater species that can be seen during diving sessions into the captivating abysses of the Indian Ocean.
You will continue to experience a sense of wonder in this tropical vastness as you follow the warm waters of the ocean. A sprinkling of islands lined with tall coconut trees, the Maldives will transport you into a marvellous world of 1,200 captivating islets and 19 atolls protected by coral reefs. Between ribbons of immaculate sand and crystal-clear waters, you will criss-cross atolls that are ranked among the most beautiful on the planet. Rasdhoo will amaze with its sublime lagoon where hammerhead sharks, turtles and colourful fish weave, flit and wind their way between the majestic coral surrounding the atoll; Baa and its sumptuous atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, edged by long sandy expanses. Both will plunge you into a palette of blue where the watchwords are ‘contemplation’ and ‘escape’.
Resembling a pearl from India, Sri Lanka will reveal its treasures. Here, the scents of cinnamon, cardamom and curry will ignite your senses; the monumental ochre-coloured temples will captivate; and the generosity of the inhabitants will fascinate. In Galle, the Old Town and its 18th-century fortifications, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, bear witness to the Portuguese and Dutch heritage that still has a strong presence in the city’s little streets. From Hambantota, the Yala National Park unfolds before you. Exploring it will take you deep into vibrant nature, teeming with wild species: leopards, sloth bears, mongooses, monkeys, buffalos and more.
At the crossroads of the maritime trade between Europe and Asia, Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, will mark the end of this unique adventure, with its various colours and perfumes.
The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : EX040124
Your itinerary
An all-new cruise discovering the treasures of Sri Lanka and the magnificent idyllic islets with captivating underwater life of the Seychelles and the Maldives. Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables...
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Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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LE SOLÉAL
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE BORÉAL
21/8/2024 to the 28/8/2024
- New
LE LYRIAL
- New
LE LYRIAL
8/9/2024 to the 19/9/2024
*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
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- 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
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
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:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, 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.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- 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 Indian Ocean
The fauna of the Indian Ocean is very varied. During the various dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as napoleon fish, oriental sweetlips, blackspotted sweetlips, batfish and pelagic fauna such as manta rays, gray reef sharks, dolphin fish, rainbow runner as well as endemic wildlife such as different soft corals.
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
|
PORTS OF CALL |
DIVES (for certified divers) |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING (for beginners) |
|
Seychelles – Victoria Mahé |
NO |
NO |
|
Seychelles – Praslin Island |
YES |
YES |
|
Seychelles – Aride Island |
NO |
NO |
|
Seychelles – Curieuse Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Seychelles – La Digue Island |
YES |
YES |
|
Maldives – Rasdhoo Atoll |
YES |
NO |
|
Maldives – Rasdhoo Atoll |
YES |
NO |
|
Maldives – Baa Atoll |
YES |
YES |
|
Sri Lanka – Galle |
NO |
NO |
|
Sri Lanka – Hambantota |
YES |
NO |
|
Sri Lanka – Colombo |
NO |
NO |
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending on weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
Rates
Excellence and Passion packages must be pre-booked with your travel consultant before departure. Beyond that, all reservations will be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
Introductory dives, Exploration dives and Discovery packages must be organized on board directly with your diving instructor.
Price per person
- Introductory dive:
- Introductory dive (1 dive): €80
- Discovery Package (2 dives) : €150
- Certified divers :
- Exploration (1 dive) : €80
- Excellence Package (3 dives) : €225
- Passion Package (6 dives) : €420
Highlights
- An all-new cruise discovering the treasures of Sri Lanka and the magnificent idyllic islets with captivating underwater life of the Seychelles and the Maldives.
- Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
- During snorkelling sessions, the opportunity to observe magnificent underwater scenery sheltering exceptional biodiversity: manta rays, Humphead wrasse, hammerhead sharks, marine turtles, coral and more.
- The Aride Island Nature Reserve, the jewel of Seychellois nature, with 73 hectares of colourful vegetation and more than a million birds.
- The red and bare lands of the Seychelles’ granitic island, Curieuse Island.
- The possibility of seeing the Aldabra giant tortoises on Aride and Curieuse Islands.
- Discovering Anse Source d’Argent, a famous beach surrounded by large granite blocks and fringed with coconut trees, on the island of La Digue.
- The Yala National Park, a nature sanctuary with abundant biodiversity reputed for sheltering one of the world’s largest leopard populations.
- From Hambantota, the opportunity to explore the Udawalawe National Park, where over 400 wild elephants roam in total freedom.
- Possibility of diving (Level 2 or CMAS 2-star diver or equivalent required) and snorkelling.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board and of snorkelling with your expedition team.
Ports of Call & Excursions
4 January 2024 - Victoria, Mahé
Embarkation 4/1/2024 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 4/1/2024 at 6:00 pm
Discover Mahé, the main island of the Seychelles and also the largest of the archipelago, home to the capital, Victoria. Mahé has almost 70 beaches of fine sand, framed by the emblematic granite rocks, and whose crystal clear waters are renowned for their rich underwater life. The island is also famous for its splendid mountain panoramas accessible on hikes, such as the Morne Seychellois, which is 905 metres high and overlooks the Indian Ocean. Mahé is also an island full of history where fine colonial properties rub shoulders with Creole houses - and don’t forget the marvellous Botanical Gardens in Victoria.
5 January 2024 - Praslin Island
Arrival 5/1/2024
Departure 5/1/2024
Situated some forty kilometres away from Victoria, Praslin is the second largest island in the Seychelles. Its idyllic beaches where granite rocks nestle in immaculate sand correspond perfectly to how we imagine the Seychelles to be. They invite visitors to dive into the turquoise waters, which are ideal for snorkelling. In the centre of the island, hidden in the heart of a stunning tropical rainforest, lies the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In this veritable plant sanctuary, several endemic species of palm trees can be observed, as well as the famous sea coconut, which can weigh up to 20 kg and is sometimes called “coco fesse” because its shape calls to mind a pair of buttocks.
6 January 2024 - Aride Island
Arrival 6/1/2024
Departure 6/1/2024
Aride is an island in the Seychelles situated a few kilometres north-west of Praslin. Listed as a nature reserve, this pearl of the Indian Ocean will seduce you with the beauty of its landscapes of wild cliffs and fine-sand beaches. Protected from human impact and sometimes called “bird capital”, it is home to several endemic plants as well as exceptional wildlife. Most notably, it is the refuge of an impressive number of seabirds (Seychelles magpie-robins, terns, noddies, and more), and reptiles, such as Wright’s skinks, which can be found in the island’s wooded areas. Sea turtles can also be observed on the island’s beaches.
6 January 2024 - Curieuse Island
Arrival 6/1/2024
Departure 6/1/2024
Situated off the coast of Praslin, Curieuse has a distinguishing feature: its red earth. Discovered in 1768 by the French explorer Marc-Joseph Marion du Fresne, it was ravaged by a fire in 1771 and then home to a leper colony of which a few vestiges still remain. Declared a national marine park in 1979, it is home to many underwater species, which can be discovered while scuba diving or snorkelling in the idyllic waters of the Indian Ocean. But above all, Curieuse is renowned for the hundreds of Aldabra giant tortoises that live there. It is highly likely that you will get the chance to meet these fascinating reptiles. Along with Praslin, it is also the only island on which the sea coconut grows wild.
7 January 2024 - La Digue Island
Arrival 7/1/2024
Departure 7/1/2024
La Digue Island is a veritable concentration of all the beauty of the Seychelles. Located 6 km south-east of Praslin, this small piece of land that looks like paradise is the third-largest island in the Seychelles, despite its modest size (5 km by 3 km)! Turquoise waters just asking you to swim in them, lush vegetation sheltering giant tortoises, beaches of fine sand fringed with coconut trees and surrounded with those emblematic large granite rocks with their pink highlights like at the famous Anse Source d’Argent: the perfect picture postcard… Authentic and preserved, the island follows a peaceful rhythm, with the only means of transport along its little roads being bikes or traditional oxcarts.
8 January 2024 11 January 2024 - At sea
Arrival 8/1/2024
Departure 11/1/2024
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
12 January 2024 13 January 2024 - Rasdhoo Atoll
Arrival 12/1/2024
Departure 13/1/2024
Rasdhoo is one of the smallest atolls in the Maldives. Once occupied by Buddhist communities, the atoll is made up of five islands, two of which are uninhabited. Sitting at the heart of a stunning lagoon protected by a coral reef, this atoll is truly a paradise for lovers of the underwater world. It is an ideal location for scuba diving and snorkelling, offering the possibility of observing species that are emblematic of the Maldives, such as hammerhead sharks, rays, and turtles.
14 January 2024 - Baa Atoll
Arrival 14/1/2024
Departure 14/1/2024
At the heart of the Indian Ocean, discover Baa Atoll in the Maldives. This exceptional site, listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2011, is a perfectly preserved tropical paradise. The fifty-odd islets that make up the atoll offer visitors long stretches of white sand and beaches with crystal-clear water, lined with palm trees. While snorkelling or scuba diving, you will have the chance to observe the magnificence of the marine life, which includes coral, whale sharks, manta rays and sea turtles.
15 January 2024 - At sea
Arrival 15/1/2024
Departure 15/1/2024
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
16 January 2024 - Galle
Arrival 16/1/2024
Departure 16/1/2024
Discover Galle, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest cities. Thanks to its commercial port, from which were exported spices and precious stones, Galle was once the country’s most major city. Colonised by the Portuguese and later by the Dutch, today it still bears traces of this colonial past. When your ship calls here, have a wander around the old town and its fortifications, which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage. Built by the Portuguese at the end of the 16th century, they are perfectly preserved. To learn more about daily and rural life in Sri Lanka, do not miss the visit to the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Art Museum in Koggala, not far from Galle.
17 January 2024 18 January 2024 - Hambantota
Arrival 17/1/2024
Departure 18/1/2024
This large fishing harbour of Malay origin lies on the southern coast of the former Ceylon. Established between two lagoons, Hambantota is known for the presence of wild elephants, whose population represents 10% of the total number in the country. This abundant wildlife can be observed a few kilometres away, in Yala National Park, the second largest park in Sri Lanka. This wildlife sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to admire the myriad rare animals that live there. Sloth bears, mongooses, crocodiles, monkeys, and buffaloes live in this place where it is not uncommon to happen upon elegant leopards while out walking. The tropical rainforests are also a refuge for more than two hundred bird species. A veritable Eden for biodiversity and an extraordinary part of the world to explore.
19 January 2024 - Colombo
Arrival 19/1/2024 early morning
Disembarkation 19/1/2024 at 7:00 am
A former trading post along the Silk Route, the old quarter of Colombo offers you the fabulous sight of its picturesque streets. The city was known to Arab, Persian and Chinese traders as early as the 8th century and this former village, nestled between two dunes, was a trading post on the mythical Spice Route. Today the economic capital of Sri Lanka, the city offers picture-postcard scenery with its beaches stretching languorously along the south-western coast of the country. Here the sand dazzles you and the sea invites you to dream...
Le Jacques-Cartier
In keeping with the philosophy of PONANT and the PONANT EXPLORERS, Le Jacques-Cartier is a modern ship with slender, tapered lines, it is environmentally friendly and equipped with innovative technology.
Tastefully decorated, Le Jacques-Cartier reflects the universe so dear to PONANT, with its light tones and open-to-the-sea design providing soft light and luminosity at every instant of the day. Its ethnic chic ambiance pays homage to the destinations we visit.
Located below the waterline, the Blue Eye offers a unique experience: the opportunity to enjoy undersea views and the sounds of the marine world whilst sharing a glass together.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
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.
A recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to the main diving instructor.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
TRANSFER TO THE PORT OF MAHE
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Victoria, Mahé
Meet at the Seychelles international 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 depart the airport by coach and be directly taken to the pier to embark on your ship (about 30-minutes).
Your programme includes:
-
Transfer by coach from the airport to the port.
-
Luggage truck to the port.
-
Services of a local English-speaking representative at the airport and during the transfer.
Your programme does not include:
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$80
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
PANORAMIC TOUR OF COLOMBO WITH LUNCH
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Colombo
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will start a panoramic tour by coach of the city of Colombo, Sri Lanka's commercial capital and largest city, a blend of both historic value and modern vibes. Dating back over 600 years, Colombo was a trading hub for sea merchants and colonial rulers. One of the first things you will notice on your tour is how diverse the city has become. Buddhist temples, Hindu temples, mosques, and churches reflect the various beliefs practised all over the island and the beautiful facades of the old, colonial buildings contrast with the modern but elegant shopping arcades that have been developed inside.
Your panoramic tour will take you passing many highlights such as the National Museum, the Buddhist temples of Gangarama & the Seema Malakaya, the Galle Face Gree and the Old Parliemt Complex. A photo stop will be made at the Independance Square.
You will have lunch in a local restaurant, and then, you will proceed to Ashokaramaya Buddhist Temple where you will learn more about how Puja's offering ritual takes place.
Depending on time, you could enjoy a 30 minute stop on the way to the airport, to see the artists selling their paintings on a road in a kind of a local art gallery is located.
You will be transferred to the airport, in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
-
Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
-
Lunch with beverage package (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 local glass of wine + 1 coffee or tea).
-
Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
-
Visa fees if necessary.
-
Dinner.
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
-
We strongly recommend to bring any medication required in hand luggage.
-
We advise you to wear light cotton clothing (avoid synthetic materials), sunglasses, hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes.
-
To visit temples, it is advisable to respect dress codes (covering the upper body and legs below the knees.) We suggest bringing along a pair of thick socks as the pavement will be hot.
-
A moderate amount of activity is involved with this tour
-
We recommend that you drink bottled water and avoid ice.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. For the times of your PONANT flight, please contact your travel agent; they are also shown 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 : AU$260
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
UNESCO HERITAGE SITES OF SRI LANKA (3 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of three days to discover Sri Lanka, once called by sailors "the Paradise Island" because of its natural resources. Visit three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, immerse yourself in the Sri Lankan culture and enjoy your stay in a beautiful resort. This programme will be a pleasant conclusion to your cruise.
Day 1 – Colombo/Kandalama/Dambulla
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will depart to Kandalama (approximately a five-hour drive).
Enjoy lunch at the hotel restaurant, Heritance Kandalama, before checking-in to your room.
Then, depart from the hotel to reach Dambulla caves after a 30-minute drive.
The Golden Temple of Dambulla has been the centre of pilgrimage for Buddhists and Hindus alike for 22 centuries. Dating back to the first Century BC, Dambulla is a vast cave complex, converted into a rock temple, which is still regarded today as one of the most important Buddhist monasteries. Covering the rock ceiling is the largest collection of paintings in Sri Lanka within a cave temple, and surrounding you is the highest number of Buddha statues found in one single place. As you wander through the temple, notice the serenity and the exceedingly well-preserved nature of the place. It is no wonder the Rock Temple has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After the visit, head back to your hotel.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 2 - Kandalama/Polonnaruwa/Habarana/Kandalama
After breakfast, you will depart the hotel in the morning to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa (approximately a 90-minute drive).
An interesting blend of archaeological monuments, Polonnaruwa was established as the capital after Anuradhapura had been invaded in the late 10th century. Under King Parakramabu, who ruled in the late 11th century, Polonnaruwa became a magnificent walled city. He built the vast reservoir, Parakrama Samudra (the Sea of Parakrama), still in use today, and ordered the construction of monasteries, temples, palaces, bathing pools and Buddhist statues; all set in a forested park surrounded by moats.
One of the most striking of the many sites is Polonnaruwa’s Gal Vihara, or Rock Shrine. The reclining Lord Buddha is near another statue showing him seated in deep meditation, his throne adorned with lions and thunderbolts. A second seated Lord Buddha, surrounded by other deities including Brahma and Vishnu, is set within a cave cut into the rock face that still bears traces of the frescoes which once decorated the walls. The fourth Gal Vihara statue departs from the conventional poses by depicting the Lord Buddha as a seven-metre-tall standing figure with arms crossed. The Quadrangle, with 12 superb buildings standing on a platform in the centre of the ancient city, and the Lankatilleke image house, a vast brick building with a standing Buddha at the rear, are also among the many magnificent remains.
Then, you will reach a rural village. You will enjoy a cooking demonstration of a traditional curry before lunch will be served.
After this local culture experience, you will continue onwards to Habarana to visit a National Park in the area. There are three main parks in the area famous for its high density of Elephants. You will be taken to visit one of the parks depending on the Elephant movements (Hurulu Eco Park or Minneriya or Kaudulla National Parks).
Then, you will go back to your hotel.
The end of the day can be spent at your leisure depending on time.
Enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 3 - Kandalama/Negombo
After breakfast, take your time to relax in the quiet atmosphere of your hotel, Heritance Kandalama.
Or if you are fit enough, you will have the possibility to book an optional activity and depart in the early morning towards Sigiriya.
Check-out is at noon, followed by lunch at the hotel.
After lunch, you will leave Heritance Kandalama to reach Negombo, an old fishing village with pretty palm-fringed beaches.
After approximately a 4-hour drive, you will arrive at the hotel Heritance Negombo.
Check-in to your room.
Before the dinner served at the hotel, enjoy a cultural show including Sri Lankan traditional dancing and drumming acts.
Optional activity: Visit of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Sigiriya is an enormous rock boulder rising 200 meters above the surrounding jungle. Incredibly, the rock fortress was built by King Kassyapa I in the 5th century and served as a royal citadel for more than 18 years, something that seems more astonishing with every step you climb. Walk up the 1200-step ancient rock fortress at your own pace with your guide. Pause occasionally during your ascent to admire the mirror wall, the sigiri graffiti, the famous Sigiriya frescoes and the great lion paws. Upon reaching the summit, you will immediately see that it was worth the effort. Wander through the ruins and admire the courage and work it must have taken to build this palace all those years ago – you will even find a fully functional swimming pool up there. Aside from the ruins, with the unparalleled 360-degree view of the surrounding jungle and hills, it will not just be the climb that takes your breath away. Once at the top, your guide will recount stories from the bygone era and give you time to explore this magnificent piece of Sri Lankan history and the breathtaking views from the top of the rock.
Afterwards, drive back to the hotel.
Day 4 – Negombo/Colombo
After breakfast and check-out, spend time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotels:
Located in the heart of Sri Lanka's cultural triangle, the Heritance Kandalama Hotel 5* is a contemporary architectural wonder hand designed by Geoffrey Bawa, a famous Sri Lankan architect. Nestled on the hills, this hotel is built in harmony with the lush jungle. Its unique situation offers beautiful views over the Kandalama Lake and the rock of Sigiriya. Chic and minimalist, rooms have a bathroom with glass walls that allow guests to admire the natural landscape. During your time at leisure, you can enjoy its three swimming pools. You can also indulge yourself with a gourmet stopover in one of its bars and restaurants, as well as a relaxing break at the spa (additional charge and subject to availability).
Located in the buzzing beachside of Negombo, Heritance Negombo 5* is a contemporary five-star resort with modern amenities. Retire to your room for a comfortable break or enjoy some leisurely time viewing the ocean or around the swimming pool. Experience Sri Lankan hospitality and indulge yourself at the restaurant with local flavours during your island getaway.
Higher categories of rooms are available depending on availability and on a supplemental basis. Contact your travel agent for further details.
Your programme includes:
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2-night accommodation in a Deluxe room at the hotel Heritance Kandalama 5*, local standards (or similar) including half-board.
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1-night accommodation in a Deluxe room at the hotel Heritance Negombo 5*, local standards (or similar) including half-board.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals: bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 local glass of wine + 1 coffee or tea.
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Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Visa fees if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Early check-in and late check-out.
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Personal expenses.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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Optional activities.
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Lunch and dinner on day 4.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility difficulties. Walking conditions on this tour are mostly flat and paved, however, there may be some steps and uneven surfaces to negotiate at times. Guests who participate on this tour must be able to walk at least short distances and/or climb a few steps. Guides will identify steps and areas of uneven terrain as required.
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This programme is not recommended for people with back pain or motion sickness due to the duration of transfers by coach.
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We recommend that you drink bottled water and avoid ice.
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For this programme, you will need to wear appropriate clothing to visit the religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered). You should remove your shoes when entering a Buddhist or Hindu temple and hats at all religious places. We recommend that you wear or bring socks. Bring along a sweater or light jacket in case the air-conditioning in the coach is too cold.
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Dambulla visit involves approximately 0.5 miles (700 m) of walking on uneven ground. There are 365 steps to reach the caves, or a long pathway with long steps. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility. It is a unique experience which can be a bit difficult depending on your fitness level. However, if you are not able to climb, you could return on your own to the coach after visiting a newer temple and a museum.
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Polonnaruwa visit involves approximately 0.5 miles (800 m) of walking on uneven ground. This tour is not advised for guests with limited mobility.
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The optional activity, "Visit of Sigiriya", involves approximately 1 mile (1,600 m) of walking with 1,200 uneven steps (up and down for total of 2,400 steps). We recommend you wear flat, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is only for very fit guests.
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Official check-in at 2.00 p.m. Official check-out at noon.
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Late check-out after noon at Heritance Negombo might be available depending on availability and on a supplemental basis.
Contact of your hotels:
Heritance Kandalama
PO Box 11, Dambulla
Sri Lanka
Phone number: (+94) 66 5555 000
Heritance Negombo
175, Lewis Place, Negombo, Sri Lanka
Phone number: (+94) 31 7431 431
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To learn your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$2,400
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.