Guest of Honour 
Tropical Expedition 
Media 
Diving 
Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Zanzibar, Aldabra & the treasures of the Indian Ocean
Victoria, Mahé - Zanzibar
Dates:
8/2/2024
to
20/2/2024
Other available dates
days
nights on board
In partnership with LE POINT and with featured guest Christophe Ono-Dit-Biot, deputy editor of LE POINT and Guillaume Nery, a French freediver specialising in constant weight diving.
Embark with PONANT aboard Le Bougainville for a 13-day expedition cruise in the Indian Ocean. A chance to discover stunning natural environments, exceptional wildlife, and UNESCO World Heritage sites loaded with history.
From Victoria on the island of Mahé, you will first sail to La Digue, where a veritable picture-postcard of the Seychelles awaits you: palm trees, granite rocks, white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Further on, the small islands Astove will be an opportunity to snorkel and dive among bright-coloured sea life, before reaching Aldabra Atoll, a largely untouched natural sanctuary listed as World Heritage by UNESCO. Edged with mangrove and fine sandy beaches, it is home to the largest colony of land turtles in the world.
After a stop on the sublime Assumption Island, your next ports of call will be an opportunity to discover several of the wonders of Tanzania. You will explore the ruins of the 13th-century Swahili trading past of Kilwa Kisiwani, the small coral island of Misali as well as Pemba Island and its clove plantations.
This fabulous trip will draw to an end in Zanzibar, a city with superb UNESCO-listed buildings, blending African, Arab, Indian and European influences over more than a millennium.
The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Ref : EG080224
Your itinerary
In partnership with LE POINT and with featured guest Christophe Ono-Dit-Biot, deputy editor of LE POINT and Guillaume Nery, a French freediver specialising in constant weight diving. An expedition cruise...
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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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30/1/2024 to the 8/2/2024
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L'AUSTRAL
11/3/2024 to the 26/3/2024
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*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
Guillaume Nery
I grew up on the Mediterranean in Nice. Like all Niçois, the sea was my horizon and playground during the long summer holidays with my parents. I was 14 when I discovered freediving by accident. And it was a revelation – I loved it!
I specialised in the “constant weight” discipline (finning on the descent and ascent) for the purity and simplicity of its approach. I broke the world record four times in the deepwater Rade of Villefranche and won two World Champion titles.
In 2015, I had a serious accident while attempting the deepest dive in history with a depth of 139m, due to a measurement error by the organisation. I nearly died and decided to stay away from chasing records and devote myself entirely to passing on my passion for the sea through an artistic approach.
I make underwater short films like Free Fall, Ocean Gravity and One Breath Around The World shot in freediving with Julie Gautier, whose images can be found worldwide on the internet, and take photos to showcase the wonders of our aquatic world.
I also share my experiences and knowledge by giving lots of talks (companies, the science world, general public, schools and universities). I started writing recently, convinced of the power of words and language to reflect deeply on issues.
I have not abandoned the deep. I still venture there driven by the same thirst for the oceans and an inner exploration. I train all year round with my club, CIPA (Centre International de Plongée en Apnée) in Nice and also set up with my team the BLUENERY ACADEMY, a freediving centre in Villefranche-sur-Mer. The programme is designed for beginners to reconnect as many people as possible with the water and their breathing.
Over these last 20 years, I’ve been confronted with the destructive impact of human activities during my many dives in seas and oceans all over the globe. Now I want to use my voice to sound the alert and promote the scientific word on this environmental catastrophe that is impacting all ecosystems.
I am not a fish man. I am an aquatic human who free dives beneath the seas and ocean as a way of life.
Languages spoken : French and English
Photo credit : ARR
Christophe Ono-dit-Biot
Christophe Ono-dit-Biot was born 1975 in Le Havre.
A graduate with a masters in comparative literature, he is deputy managing editor at Le Point where he was a senior reporter.
He is the author of six novels including two award-winners, Birmane (Plon 2007, Prix interallié) and Plonger (Gallimard 2013, Grand Prix in the novel category from the Académie Française and Prix Renaudot) which was adapted for cinema in 2017. He has also published a book of interviews with comic-book author and filmmaker Enki Bilal (Ciels d’orage, Flammarion 2011); a book on Picasso and freedom of expression, and collaboration with artist Adel Abdessemed (Nuit espagnole, Stock/Ma nuit au musée, 2019); and an essay La Minute antique (Éditions de l’Observatoire 2019) where headline news stories of today, from the #Metoo movement to pop culture, are revisited in the light of history and Greek and Roman mythology.
His books have been translated into a dozen languages.
As the man behind the first personal blog on the net, entitled Journal de l’énervé, in 1995, and author of the Cannes Confidentiel documentary, he has contributed to several TV shows from La Matinale on Canal + to BFM politique, and presents the cultural programme Au Fil des mots (TF1/LCI). Since 2014 he has produced and presented a literature show Le Temps des écrivains since 2014 on the France Culture radio channel.
As someone who is passionate about scuba diving, he is acutely aware of the need to protect the oceans, particularly sharks which are at the heart of his novel, Plonger.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Khanh Renaud
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Christophe Ono-dit-Biot
Christophe Ono-dit-Biot was born 1975 in Le Havre.
A graduate with a masters in comparative literature, he is deputy managing editor at Le Point where he was a senior reporter.
He is the author of six novels including two award-winners, Birmane (Plon 2007, Prix interallié) and Plonger (Gallimard 2013, Grand Prix in the novel category from the Académie Française and Prix Renaudot) which was adapted for cinema in 2017. He has also published a book of interviews with comic-book author and filmmaker Enki Bilal (Ciels d’orage, Flammarion 2011); a book on Picasso and freedom of expression, and collaboration with artist Adel Abdessemed (Nuit espagnole, Stock/Ma nuit au musée, 2019); and an essay La Minute antique (Éditions de l’Observatoire 2019) where headline news stories of today, from the #Metoo movement to pop culture, are revisited in the light of history and Greek and Roman mythology.
His books have been translated into a dozen languages.
As the man behind the first personal blog on the net, entitled Journal de l’énervé, in 1995, and author of the Cannes Confidentiel documentary, he has contributed to several TV shows from La Matinale on Canal + to BFM politique, and presents the cultural programme Au Fil des mots (TF1/LCI). Since 2014 he has produced and presented a literature show Le Temps des écrivains since 2014 on the France Culture radio channel.
As someone who is passionate about scuba diving, he is acutely aware of the need to protect the oceans, particularly sharks which are at the heart of his novel, Plonger.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Khanh Renaud
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 - Expedition Cruise
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 2 star CMAS or the PADI Advanced 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 Advanced Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 25 metres.
- If two 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.
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 |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING |
|
Seychelles – Victoria, Mahé |
NO |
NO |
|
Seychelles – La Digue Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Seychelles – Astove Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Seychelles – Aldabra Atoll |
YES |
NO |
|
Seychelles – Aldabra Atoll |
YES |
NO |
|
Seychelles – Assumption Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Tanzania – Kilwa Kisiwani |
NO |
NO |
|
Tanzania – Misali Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Tanzania – Pemba Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Tanzania – Zanzibar |
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.
The Exploration dive must be organised on board directly with your diving instructor.
Price per person
- Certified divers :
- Exploration (1 dive) : €80
- Excellence Package (3 dives) : €225
- Passion Package (6 dives) : €420
Le Point
Founded in 1972 and now a weekly, Le Point is the best-selling source of information in France.
Humanists in essence, optimists by choice, its founders and journalists believe freedom and progress are based on reason, the experience of doubting, the pleasures in life and an understanding of the world.
Against a backdrop of political, geopolitical and technological upheavals, Le Point aims to be the journal of knowledge, analysis and of course reporting.
It provides readers with a service based on investigation, debate and true accounts, and encourages them to be discerning and enjoy their era to the full.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- In partnership with LE POINT and with featured guest Christophe Ono-Dit-Biot, deputy editor of LE POINT and Guillaume Nery, a French freediver specialising in constant weight diving.
- An expedition cruise between Tanzania and the Seychelles, featuring wild, preserved nature and sites brimming with history.
- Outings in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides and landings on idyllic beaches.
- UNESCO sites: Aldabra, the largest coral atoll in the world; the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani; and Zanzibar’s Stone Town.
- In the Seychelles, Anse Source d’Argent, the most famous beach of La Digue, surrounded by large blocks of granite and edged with coconut palms.
- Possibility of observing tortoises and many species of birds on Aldabra atoll.
- 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
8 February 2024 - Victoria, Mahé
Embarkation 8/2/2024 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 8/2/2024 at 7:00 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.
9 February 2024 - La Digue Island
Arrival 9/2/2024
Departure 9/2/2024
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.
10 February 2024 - At sea
Arrival 10/2/2024
Departure 10/2/2024
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.
11 February 2024 - Astove Island
Arrival 11/2/2024
Departure 11/2/2024
Closer to Madagascar than to Victoria, Astove is the southernmost island in the Seychelles. It is part of the Aldabra group, in the Outer Islands of the Seychelles. Now uninhabited, this coral island covered in coconut trees was once home to the employees that worked on the coconut plantations. Renowned for the richness of its seabeds, Astove Atoll is now a top destination for fishing enthusiasts. It also attracts experienced divers, who visit the atoll to explore the “Astove Wall”, where the sea floor drops to a depth of about 40 metres. The wall is covered in coral and many fish and green sea turtles can be found there.
12 February 2024 13 February 2024 - Aldabra Atoll
Arrival 12/2/2024
Departure 13/2/2024
Located in the very heart of this faraway archipelago, the Aldabra Atoll is considered to be one of the last virtually untouched sanctuaries on earth, where a large population of sea turtles has found refuge. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast tract of land is formed by 4 small coral reef islands separated by narrow passes and containing an emerald-water lagoon lined with mangrove and fine-sand beaches. As your ship slowly nears the clear, reflective waters along its shoreline, do not miss your chance to discover this natural wonder, which is considered to be the largest atoll in the world and once fired the imagination of many an explorer.
14 February 2024 - Assumption Island
Arrival 14/2/2024
Departure 14/2/2024
Assumption Island is part of the Aldabra group (Outer Islands), situated in the south-west of the Seychelles. Discovered in the mid-18th century by the French captain Nicolas Morphey, this bean-shaped island covered in dunes and shrubs is relatively flat. A handful of people live there, in a small village in the island’s west. The island’s beaches are a major egg-laying and breeding site for sea turtles. The surrounding waters are ideal for scuba diving. This is where Jacques-Yves Cousteau filmed some of the scenes for his famous documentary film “The Silent World”, released in 1956.
15 February 2024 - At sea
Arrival 15/2/2024
Departure 15/2/2024
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 February 2024 - Kilwa Kisiwani
Arrival 16/2/2024
Departure 16/2/2024
Near the Tanzanian coast, around 300 km south of Dar es Salaam, the island of Kilwa Kisiwani is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Occupied from the 9th century to the 11th century, it reached its heights in the 13th and 14th centuries. It was described by the Moroccan explorer Ibn Battouta as “one of the most beautiful cities in the world.” A former Swahili trading city, the island prospered from the trade of gold and ivory from the inland regions. The remains of its former port city cover a large part of the island. Those of its superb Great Mosque, the oldest mosque remaining on the coast of East Africa, are well worth a visit.
17 February 2024 - Pemba Island
Arrival 17/2/2024
Departure 17/2/2024
The second-largest island in the Zanzibar Archipelago, edged with fine sand and bathed in a sea in infinite shades of turquoise, Pemba Island astounds with the whiteness of its shores and its abundant tropical forest. It is mountainous with hills full of fertile land and has the nickname “the Green Island”. You’ll fall in love with its quiet shores, full of authenticity. Banana trees, coconut trees, clove trees, nutmeg trees… its lush vegetation ensures the local production of spices that has made its reputation (essentially cloves but also nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, turmeric, pepper, etc.).
18 February 2024 - Misali Island
Arrival 18/2/2024
Departure 18/2/2024
Renowned for its underwater world, Misali became a protected conservation area in 1998. So, it’s possible to admire its sea beds and swim there, but not to fish. If conditions allow, you’ll perhaps have the chance to see varied underwater fauna. To the north-east of the island, a white sandy beach, bathed in stunningly transparent turquoise water, is an ideal place to relax.
19 February 2024 20 February 2024 - Zanzibar
Arrival 19/2/2024
Disembarkation 20/2/2024 at 7:00 am
Once a mythical post along the legendary Indian Ocean trade route, today a certain whiff of adventure still pervades in Zanzibar. Located off the coast of Tanzania, this place often referred to as “spice island” is brimming with natural treasures, such as Jozani Forest, the last remains of the huge primeval forest that once covered the island, home to a unique ecosystem. This port of call will also be the moment to discover ”Stone Town”, the historical centre of Zanzibar, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A veritable labyrinth of narrow streets lined with houses made from coral stone, it is home to sumptuous buildings in a multitude of architectural styles, the result of the blending of African, European and Indian cultures.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
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.
Media
Discuss and debate geopolitics, societal changes and the major challenges of the future with editors, journalists and columnists from major news outlets. On board, Paris Match, Le Figaro, L’Express or Le Point, undisputed references when it comes to quality news and information, offer in-depth analyses of the shifts occurring in our society. Partnerships with GEO and Point de Vue cater to our guests who are passionate about photography, geography and history.
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
FLAVOURS OF MAHE
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport. Victoria, Mahe Meet and greet at the airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the PONANT selected flight. You will depart the airport by coach along the Mahe’s southeast coast road and after a 20-minute drive, you will reach the Spice Garden “le Jardin du Roi”. Nestled on a peaceful hilly area overlooking the ocean, this old spice garden houses approximately a hundred types of endemic plants, spices and a small museum dedicated to the history of spices in Seychelles since the 18th century. Enjoy a welcome drink before departing for a pleasant walk between vanilla plants, sugar canne, variety of spices, fruit trees, and tropical flowers. Then take a break for sit down and delight a tasting session of the garden’s fruits. Then you will reach in ten minutes the Takamaka distillery. You will learn more about Seychelles rum homemade secrets during the visit that will end with a tasting session. Lunch will be served in a local restaurant. If time permitting, you will enjoy time a scenic drive at Victoria, the Mahe’s capital. You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on board your ship. Your programme includes: Your programme does not include: Please note: Duration and order of the visits 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 : AU$450
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
SAFARI TO SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK (4 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of some days to discover the untamed and powerful wilderness in the heart of the Serengeti. Considered to be one of the most valuable ecosystems in the world, it is the second largest animal park in Africa and a UNESCO World heritage site. From a beautiful lodge with a perfect location, you will discover the "Endless Plains" and feel the pulse of nature.
Day 1 - Zanzibar/Serengeti National Park
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
We recommend that you take a separate bag for the duration of the Post-cruise programme at Serengeti.
Your piece of luggage dedicated to the cruise will be taken by our local representative and stored at Arusha and then transported to your hotel at Arusha when you come back from Serengeti.
From the port of Zanzibar, you will be transferred to the airport and onto your connecting flight to Seronera airstrip/Serengeti. About 3-hour flight, with stops (via Arusha & Manyara).
Picnic lunches will be provided in Zanzibar.
At your arrival, you will be transferred to the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti 5*.
En route to your lodge, you will enjoy a game drive to start your immersion in the savannah.
The Serengeti is not only famous for the great wildebeest Migration that moves around the park from October - July every year but also for the vast number of species that reside in the park year-round. The concentration of predators in the Serengeti is high with large prides of lion, numerous hyena clans, and regular sightings of both cheetah and Leopard. Elephant, buffalo, giraffe, and antelope can be found feeding on the rich plains as well as some of the lesser known species such as aardwolf, mongoose, caracal, servals and hyrax.
In the afternoon, check-in at the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti 5*. The rest of the day will be at leisure.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Days 2 & 3 - Serengeti National Park
After breakfast, you will enjoy each day a game drive to explore the fascinating landscapes and exceptional wildlife of the reserve.
You will spend your day exploring the extensive plains of the Serengeti in search of the 'Big 5'. To maximize your time game viewing the lunch could be served out of the lodge as a picnic into the park or it could be served at your lodge later in the day.
After returning from safari, you can still feel the magic of seeing wildlife up-close when simply relaxing by the pool.
From here you can take in the dramatic views over the open savannah and bush, keeping an eye on the waterhole below as animals come down to drink throughout the day.
The lodge sits on raised terrain overlooking a waterhole in the centre of the Serengeti. It offers an innovative way to experience the resident wildlife; the lodge's waterhole tempts a diverse range of animals close which can be watched from different places from the lodge or via a live feed transmitted to the television in your room.
You can also relax in the beautiful Four Seasons Serengeti's luxury spa, with six individual spa treatment rooms overlooking the Serengeti Plains.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 4 - Serengeti National Park/Arusha
Breakfast at the lodge and check-out.
You will then be transferred to the airport Seronera airstrip/Serengeti. About 1-hour transfer and 2-hours flight.
Upon arrival you will be transferred directly to your hotel for check-in and lunch.
Afternoon at leisure to enjoy hotel facilities.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 5 - Arusha/Kilimanjaro International Airport
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport (about 1 hour at drive) 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).
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Optional activity :
In case of you book an afternoon or evening departure flight, you have the possibility to choose with extra fees an optionnal activity including a city tour of Arusha with a lunch before beeing transfered 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:
The very large, luxury Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti 5* is in the centre of the Serengeti National Park, surrounded by a pristine nature. Four seasons Serengeti comes equipped with a range of first-class facilities, including a spa with six free-standing treatments pavilions and an infinity edge swimming pool. As the resort is built above a central watering hole, you could lounge along the swimming pool and watching the local wildlife stop for drink. You stay will be an amazing experience!
The Gran Melia Arusha is a five-star hotel nestled in the exotic natural of Arusha between the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro National Parks. This oasis of comfort is an elegant place for a break before of after a safari trip rooms. You will enjoy its rooms fully-equipped, its international cuisine and its modern facilities as pool & spa.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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3-night accommodation in Savannah room at Four Seasons Serengeti lodge 5*, local standards (or similar) including full board (except lunch on day 1).
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1-night accommodation in Deluxe City View room at Gran Melia Hotel Arusha 5*, local standards (or similar) including 1 lunch, 1 dinner and 1 breakfast.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme (including some lunches served as lunch box).
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Beverages package throughout your stay (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 local glass of wine, 1 coffee or tea).
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Domestic flights Zanzibar/Seronera - Serengeti airstrip & Seronera - Serengeti airstrip/Arusha - Luggage allowance is 15 kg per person.
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Separate transportation for main luggage and storage at Arusha.
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Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
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Porterage, allowing for a maximum of 2 suitcase per person.
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Games drives by 4WD vehicles, with English speaking drivers as mentioned in the programme.
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The 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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Personal expenses.
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Personal health insurance cover.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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Lunch and Optional activity on day 5.
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Early check-in and late check-out.
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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Official hotel check-in time is 2:00 p.m
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Official hotel check-out time is noon.
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Late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
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For visits to temples, it is preferable to wear appropriately discreet clothing, covering the upper body and legs below the knee.
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Tap water is not drinkable.
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It is recommended that you contact your health professional for any specific medical advise relating to travel through these regions.
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We recommend taking along light clothing (neutral, dull colours are essential) and comfortable shoes as well as sun protection mosquito repellent and binoculars. During early morning game drives in vehicles it can be a little cool, we recommend that you take along a windbreaker.
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The programme is not recommended for guests with back problems or reduced mobility. Guest should be phisacally fit in order to participate in this tour as the most of time, this tour is spent sitting in the vehicle and during game drives roads are rough and bumby.
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Tanzania's unit of currency is the Tanzania Shilling. The country has a cash-based economy. U. S dollars are widely accepted. Major credit cards are accepted on a very limited basis, mainly only in the largest shops, hotels and lodges. ATMs are available in larger city centres like Dar Es Salam, but less in remote areas.
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Your main luggage will be separately transported from Zanzibar to Arusha. It will be stored at Arusha and you will fly to Serengeti with a smaller one. You will carry on only what you need for the safari. You will retrieve your main luggage when you back from Serengeti at Arusha.
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On flights within East Africa, each passenger is limited to a maximum baggage weight of 33 pounds (15 kilograms). This includes the weight of purses and camera equipment in addition to regular luggage. Luggage restrictions are adhered to very strictly and passengers should pack their bags accordingly. Soft-sided luggage or duffels are preferable to hard luggage for storage on safari vehicles and on aircraft used throughout East Africa. Dimensions should not exceed 23 inches (58 centimetres) long x 13 inches (33 centimetres) high x 10 inches (25 centimetres).
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Prescriptions and medications (we recommend you carry these in their original bottles and/or packaging.)
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Visitors to Tanzania are advised to avoid carrying plastic bags in their suitcases or hand luggage, with the exception of the required "Ziploc type" bags specifically used to carry toiletries and other liquids of 100 millilitres or less through airport security screenings. These "Ziploc" bags must remain in the permanent possession of the traveller and not disposed of in Tanzania.
Contact of your hotels:
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti
Rd, 2002,Tanzania
Phone number: (255) 768 982 100/3
Gran Melia Arusha
TZ, Simeon Road, 1184, Tanzania
Phone number: (255) 746 982 400
Duration and order of the visits 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.
Total : AU$10,650
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.