Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Volcanic landscapes from Cape Verde to Canary Islands
Dakar - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Dates:
9/3/2025
to
19/3/2025
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Taking care of your body and your mind... Such is the core concept of this unique cruise, in partnership with Le Tigre Yoga Club and with the exceptional presence of Élodie Garamond, yoga instructor and founder of Le Tigre Yoga Club, and Lilia Hassaine, novelist.
Between the volcanic archipelagos of Cape Verde and the Canary Islands, PONANT invites you an unforgettable 11-day interlude, leaving from Dakar, Senegal’s lively capital. This journey aboard Le Dumont d’Urville will take you into the heart of uniquely and wildly beautiful landscapes, featuring majestic volcanos, lush green valleys, isolated inlets, verdant cliffs and historic cities with multiple sources of heritage.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, wander the virgin expanses of the island of Santo Antão from Mindelo, admire the volcanic and verdant landscapes of Santa Cruz de La Palma, or discover the historic town of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
Your discovery of Cape Verde will start with a port of call in Santiago, in Praia, the Cape Verde capital, where you will have the opportunity to visit the historic centre of Ribeira Grande, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Further to the north, you will reach São Vicente and visit Mindelo, the cultural capital of Cape Verde, the birthplace of the famous singer of morna, Cesaria Évora.
Your ship will then set sail towards the mythical Canary Islands. Santa Cruz de La Palma will invite you to spend a moment suspended in time. Here, the accent is on authenticity and tranquillity as you succumb to the charms of its unspoilt nature and its unusual architectural heritage featuring traditional Canarian houses with brightly-coloured wooden balconies, sumptuous palaces, and religious buildings.
You will journey onward to El Hierro, the smallest of the Canary Islands. Among other activities, in this peaceful and tranquil haven scattered with volcanic desert and forests of pine and laurel, you will be able to enjoy these vast, untouched, lush spaces during a discovery tour of the island on an electric bike.
Then your ship will take to the sea, sailing east to reach Santa Cruz de Tenerife. In these lands of a thousand contrasts, dominated by the emblematic silhouette of the Teide stratovolcano, discover the unique and fascinating landscapes found in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Teide National Park.
Finally, you will visit Las Palmas, on Gran Canaria Island, the final port of call on your Canarian cruise.
Ref : EU090325
Your itinerary
In partnership with Le Tigre Yoga Club and with the exceptional presence of Élodie Garamond, yoga instructor and founder of Le Tigre Yoga Club, and Lilia Hassaine, novelist: one or two sessions of meditation,...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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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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L'AUSTRAL
L'AUSTRAL
5/11/2025 to the 23/11/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
3/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
*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.
Discover all destinations
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
- Diptyque 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
Lilia Hassaine
Born in 1991, Lilia Hassaine is a journalist and novelist. She is the author of three novels published by Editions Gallimard, translated into several languages: L'œil du paon (2019), which won the Folio-ELLE prize. Soleil Amer (2021) was a finalist for the Goncourt des Lycéens. His latest work, Panorama (2023), was shortlisted for the Prix Renaudot. It won the Prix de la rentrée 2023, and the Renaudot des Lycéens.
Spoken language: French
Photo credit: Gallimard @francescamantovani
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.
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
LE TIGRE
Created by Élodie Garamond and her family in 2013, LE TIGRE is today 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 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.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- In partnership with Le Tigre Yoga Club and with the exceptional presence of Élodie Garamond, yoga instructor and founder of Le Tigre Yoga Club, and Lilia Hassaine, novelist: one or two sessions of meditation, a writing workshop and a yoga lesson proposed to all guests.
- A daily yoga lesson and writing workshop for the guests who booked the retreat (depending on excursion times and not including gala evenings).
- A unique cruise discovering some of the natural treasures of Cape Verde and the Canary Islands.
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Cidade Velha, the historic centre of Ribeira Grande (island of Santiago); le parc national Teide et la ville de San Cristóbal de La Laguna, sur l’île de Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
- The varied landscapes of two exceptional archipelagos: Cape Verde and the Canary Islands.
- The town of Mindelo in Cape Verde with its elegant buildings influenced by its British and Portuguese colonial heritage.
- Discovery of the picturesque Santa Cruz de la Palma with its sumptuous palaces and its picturesque old town featuring colonial architecture.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
9 March 2025 - Dakar
Embarkation 9/3/2025 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 9/3/2025 at 6:00 pm
On the tip of the African continent, the buzzing capital of Senegal stretches along the narrow peninsula of Cape Verde. You may be overwhelmed by its sheer size, but Dakar will win you over with its richly diverse districts, appealing cultural scene and rich natural surroundings. In the historic centre, you'll enjoy the pell-mell of colours and tasty delights in Kermel market. Far from the effervescence of the city, Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as a place of remembrance, having once been a slave trade outpost. On the other side of the plateau, the wild Madeleine islands are protected by a national park.
10 March 2025 - At sea
Arrival 10/3/2025
Departure 10/3/2025
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 March 2025 - Praia
Arrival 11/3/2025 early morning
Departure 11/3/2025 early afternoon
The capital of Cape Verde, Praia, is located on the southern tip of Santiago island. You can dally in the districts planted with Tamarind and Albizia trees. Above the harbour, the statue of Diogo Gomes pays homage to the man who discovered Cape Verde in 1460. A few streets away, in the old centre, the Ethnographic Museum presents the diversity of the archipelago’s cultural origins. Its historical building with transom windows is one of the city’s more unusual curiosities.
12 March 2025 13 March 2025 - Mindelo
Arrival 12/3/2025 early morning
Departure 13/3/2025 mid morning
Set on the shores of the Porto Grande bay on the north-west coast of São Vicente, Mindelo is considered to be Cape Verde's cultural capital. Here in singer Cesaria Evora's homeland, you can listen to real morna in the bars of the old town, where you can also sip the local grog, a Cape Verdian sugarcane spirit. A few streets from the elegant floating resort of Pont d'água you'll see the pastel-coloured houses and colonial buildings of the historical district. Other landmarks are the facades of the old Governor's Palace and the busy municipal market.
14 March 2025 15 March 2025 - At sea
Arrival 14/3/2025
Departure 15/3/2025
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 March 2025 - Santa Cruz de La Palma, Canary Islands
Arrival 16/3/2025 early morning
Departure 16/3/2025 evening
The capital of the island of Palma, Santa Cruz de la Palma is the pearl of the Canaries. Founded in 1493 by the conquistador Alonso Fernandez de Lugo, the city has preserved a large and atypical architectural heritage from its colonial past, with its traditional Canarian houses adorned with brightly coloured wooden balconies, its cobbled streets, its sumptuous palaces and its numerous religious buildings. The Santa Catalina Castle is the symbol of the city. This 16th century military fortification helped defend the city from repeated attacks by French privateers.
17 March 2025 - La Estaca, Canary Islands
Arrival 17/3/2025 early morning
Departure 17/3/2025 late afternoon
With its particularly pleasant climate, El Hierro, the youngest of the Canary Islands, invites you to discover enchanting panoramas in an atmosphere of unrivalled calm and serenity. You will be captivated by the untouched natural environment, featuring a majestic volcano, lush forests, sheer cliffs and natural pools. Besides the treasures on land, you will also have the chance to discover its underwater environment. Teeming with life, it is a paradise for diving enthusiasts, since the island is home to the Punta de La Restinga Marine Reserve, its thousands of colourful fish and stunning underwater volcanic landscapes.
18 March 2025 - Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
Arrival 18/3/2025 early morning
Departure 18/3/2025 early evening
The capital city of Tenerife is located on the north-east coast of the island. Close to the port is the monumental Plaza de España, bedecked with a fountain and plant sculptures. Around the plaza, you can admire the white marble Triunfo de la Candelaria obelisk, the historic casino of Santa Cruz and the majestic Guimerà theatre. Not far from here, the picturesque Iglesia de la Concepción church features the characteristic traits of Canaries architecture.
19 March 2025 - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Arrival 19/3/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 19/3/2025 at 8:00 am
A stopover of sunny climes, Las Palmas is located on the north-east coast of Gran Canaria. A few streets away from Puerto de la Luz port, you’ll discover the vast Las Canteras beach, bordered with the town’s characteristic palms. You’ll find these palms are all over Las Palmas, in the streets and squares, especially on the plaza de Santa Ana in the heart of the historical district. It feels like you’ve travelled back in time here, as you stand looking at the tall houses beside the Santa Ana cathedral. Very close by, you can visit the Casa de Colón, a museum dedicated to the famous explorer. The museum is housed in the palace belonging to the island’s former governor. Chances are, you’ll be drawn to the covered Vegueta market to partake in some daily life along with the locals and taste some unfamiliar dishes.
Praia & Cidade Velha
Welcome to the largest and most African of the Cape Verde islands. This tour will take you to the heart of the recent capital, Praia, where you will discover the contrast between its history and the modern atmosphere that reigns there.
From the pier, you will meet your guide and drive to "the Plateau". There, you will start your guided walking tour of the historical centre of Praia. You will visit the Ethnological Museum which is located in a historic Portuguese colonial building. Your guide will tell you more about the way of life of the first inhabitants.
Afterwards, you will go to Cidade Velha which you will reach after 30 minutes of driving. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is the original capital of the Cape Verde Islands and the cradle of the slave trade.
Ribeira Grande, now known as Cidade Velha (“old city”), is the oldest city in Cape Verde Islands and was the first European settlement in the tropics. A colony was founded in 1462 by Antonio de Noli and prospered due to its prominent position in the slave trade. It became a city in 1572 and got a cathedral which was completed late in 1693. The great explorers Christopher Colombus and Vasco de Gama both stopped here on their respective expeditions, Christopher Colombus on his third voyage to the Americas in 1498, and Vasco de Gama on his way to India in 1497.
Before arriving, you will visit the ruins of the old Fort of Real do Sao Filipe, which overlooks the Cidade Velha. It was built in 1590 to protect Ribeira Grande after a devastating attack by the pirate Francis Drake. This defence soon proved insufficient and in 1712 the city was sacked again by the French pirate Jacques Cassart.
Once in the heart of Cidade Velha, you will discover the remains left by the first Portuguese settlers. You will visit its Cathedral, then you will walk along the Rua Banana and the Pelourinho, a pillory dating from the 16th century. Near these picturesque cobblestone streets, you will enjoy a coffee to the sound of the drums of a batuco group that will offer you a traditional dance performance.
After discovering the soul of this island, you will return to the port of Praia and your ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 1.5 km of walking over cobblestone streets with some steps. The transportation used is local bus and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. Euros banknotes are accepted at the souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cape Verdean escapade
Dive into the heart of Cape Verde’s history and fall under the spell of the charms of the island of Santiago, its inhabitants and their secular traditions.
In Praia’s picturesque historic centre, more well-known to locals by the name of Platô or Plateau, stroll the paved streets that bear witness to the birth of the Cape Verdean nation, and be enchanted by the city’s most emblematic historic jewels. These include: the Nossa Senhora da Graça Church, steeped with centuries of devotion and mystery; the vegetable market, brimming with colours and local flavour, offering a glimpse into everyday Cape Verdean life; and the Ethnographic Museum, where you will be able to find out more about the archipelago’s culture, customs and traditions.
This sublime adventure will continue via breathtaking mountain scenery, through Sao Domingos to Rui Vaz, where a surprising culinary discovery awaits you in the form of a delicious traditional lunch.
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This excursion involves around 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking on paved and uneven streets, with some steps. The vehicles used are local transport and are not equipped with air conditioning or a sound system. Euro banknotes are accepted in all souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mindelo off road adventure
From the pier, you will board your 4x4 for a panoramic tour of the island of São Vicente, through breathtaking landscapes.
In the heart of unspoilt nature, your adventure will take you from the north coast to the south coast to Palha Carga Beach - a one-kilometre-long beach just for you. On the way, you will stop at Assomada to take pictures from the highest viewpoint on the island.
After enjoying a stop at a black sand beach and crossing the agricultural valley of the island, Ribeira de Calhau, you will stop inside the small crater of Topim and observe the uninhabited islands of Santa Luzia, Raso and Branco. Enjoy the beauty of the turquoise waters and white sand of Saragarça Beach and be seduced by the natural caves along the coast, formed at the end of a lava flow, with the backdrop of the Viana crater on your left and the view of Santa Luzia on your right. With a little luck, you may have the privilege to see ospreys (fish eagles).
Then, you will visit the fishing village of Calhau, with its colourful wooden sailboats and its typical Cape Verdean atmosphere before returning to you ship.
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This excursion is a panoramic tour (3 hours’ drive with photo stops) in an all-terrain vehicle and involves walking on rough roads with some steps. The vehicles used are local and do not have air conditioning or a sound system. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Each vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 2 passengers. Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for people with back or neck problems. There are no toilets during the tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Santo Antao, the authentic island
From the pier, board your van for a transfer to the national harbour, from where you will board a ferry for the one-hour ride to the neighbouring island of Santo Antao.
Upon your arrival, you will start your exploration with a panoramic drive along the coast to the greenest, almost tropical valley on the archipelago, the Paúl Valley, 1 ½ hour drive.
Here, you will start a moderate hike through splendid nature and through different plantations, enjoying the lushness of this valley and the friendliness of the population and their rural way of living. This valley is a main provider of the archipelago's produce, which includes bananas, potatoes, lettuce, papaya, mangos and breadfruit.
In the middle of this peaceful scenery, you will take a break to enjoy some of the fresh fruit that you can readily find in here. In this spectacular valley, you will see lots of sugarcane, which is used to make the local liquor, called Grogue. After your hike, you will visit a traditional sugar cane distillery with a "trapiche", a large press. You will have an introduction into the local grogue rum. No visit would be complete without a tasting.
Back aboard your van, head along the breathtaking coastline as, you make your way towards the fishing village of Ponta do Sol for a short guided visit. Next, you will head into the Valley of Ribeira Grande, where you will enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant.
Then, you will reboard your vehicle and pass along the former trading route, where you will have spectacular views into different valleys, and formations of the volcanic mountains. One of the highlights of this road is the view into the Cova crater, which is the birthplace of this island. Today, the rich soil found in the crater is perfect for farming and the crater floor is spotted with different types of agriculture, including corn.
After making your way over the mountain ridge, you will begin your descent onto the other side of the island and back to the harbour in Porto Novo.
Finally, you will take the ferry for the cruise back to Mindelo and your ship.
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The transportation used is local and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. This excursion involves approximately 0.6 miles (1 km) of walking over uneven terrain with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must be in good physical condition. The former trading route is narrow and winding and is not recommended for guests suffering from motion sickness.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Jaunt to Sao Vicente: culture, scenery and adventure
'Sao Vicente is characterised by its lack of water, which gives it a somewhat bare landscape. The island's appeal lies in its wild Atlantic beaches and its charming, colourful city known as the country's cultural capital. Succumb to the charms of this natural sanctuary with an ancestral culture.
Your scenic tour through Mindelo will have you discovering the heart of the city. It will take you past the Praia Nova, the Palacio de Povo, down the main street called Rua de Lisboa, and along the bustling Rua de Praia, lined with colourful colonial houses and monuments influenced by the Portuguese and British cultures.
Along the winding roads leading to Monte Verde, the islands tallest peak, you will take pleasure in admiring the variety of colours offered by the island's stones and rock formations. Make your way along the winding roads of Monte Verde, the highest peak on the island, to enjoy a panoramic view of most parts of the island: the city of Mindelo, the long beaches of yellow sand juxtaposing black volcanic rock, and Baia das Gatas, a bay with turquoise waters, famous for its annual music festival that gathers large parts of the country.
During a stop at Praia Grande beach, delight in the sound of the waves of the Atlantic as you walk along the sand, and taste the local sugarcane liqueur called grog. Finally, before returning to Mindelo to hear some of the Cape Verdean music for which the island of Sao Vicente is renowned, you will cross the former agricultural zone that was once vital to the island but which is now reduced due to the lack of rainfall.
- This excursion involves some time spent walking on cobblestone streets with some steps to negotiate. The coaches used are local buses with no air conditioning or sound system. Euros (banknotes only) are accepted in the souvenir shops in the cultural centre, but credit cards are not. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and bringing a jacket with you as it can get windy at the top of the mountain. Swimming is not allowed. The tasting is included in your tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Above the clouds of La Palma
Although it is one of the smallest islands in the Canaries, La Palma is exceptionally steep for its size. A ridge crosses the center of the island from north to south and the entire mountain range exceeds 2000 meters in altitude.
From the pier, you will continue to the highest point of La Palma, the "Roque de Los Muchachos", located on the northern side of the "Caldera de Taburiente" National Park, at an altitude of 2,426 meters. It was designated a national park in 1954 because of its immense scientific importance and its wild and exceptional landscapes.
No matter which direction you look, the enormous crater of the Caldera de Taburiente will always offer you incredible views. This park features one of the biggest craters in the world with a circumference of 28,000 metres, a diameter of 9,000 metres and a depth of 700 metres. It´s lined with a pine tree forest, lava deposits and features furrowed by cool streams.
Before reaching the top, you will see the peculiar scene known as the “Sea of Clouds”. Each visit to Roque de los Muchachos is different, as the clouds are never the same. A photo stop will be made at Roque de Los Muchachos viewpoint where you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the impressive Caldera de Taburiente.
The next stop will be at Roque de los Muchachos Visitor Centre, which is divided into 4 rooms. The first one, the Welcome Room houses the reception, the auditorium, the store and a large interactive table, where you will discover what makes up the telescopes of the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory. Room 1 “The Canary Islands, a window to the Universe”: you will discover the reasons why the Canary Island were strategically chosen to house the most important telescopes in the world. Room 2 “Exploring the Universe”: here, you will dive into the depths of the cosmos, exploring all the corners of science and our Universe. Room 3 “Back to Earth”: in this room you will return to the municipality of Villa de Garafía, where the Visitor Centre is located. You will discover their traditions, their way of life, and their natural and cultural heritage.
After the visit you will have some free time to enjoy the amazing surroundings before heading to the port.
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Roque de los Muchachos is located at 2,423 metres above sea level, so this excursion is not recommended for people with respiratory distress and heart problems. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and warm clothes. Please note that visibility is dependent on weather conditions. If the weather conditions are not good, the roads to Roque de Los Muchachos may be closed.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
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, an 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.
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.
Free solo supplement
FREE SOLO SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
DAKAR AND GORÉE, THE MEMORY ISLAND (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Dakar
Meet at Dakar Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the Radisson Blu, Dakar Sea Plaza 5* (about 1: 30 drive).
Check-in in your room from 3 pm.
The end is the day is at leisure.
Day 2 - Dakar - Gorée Island
After you breakfast, you will take the direction to the pier to embark on board the ferry for the 25-minute crossing until Gorée island.
Your day will be spent visiting the evocative Gorée Island. Just three kilometres from Dakar, this little island is a haunting reminder of 350 years of the slave trade. Indeed, it was the biggest holding centre for slaves brought in from all over West Africa and has become a symbol and UNESCO World Heritage site.
From Dakar port, take the ferry for the 25-minute crossing. The visit is on foot starting at the House of Slaves, the most visited museum in Senegal which still evokes the poignant reality of one of the darkest periods in the history of the world. You then walk up to the Castle on a rocky plateau covered in fortifications, a reminder of the wars fought between Europeans (English, French, Portuguese and Dutch) to gain control of the island. The Castle offers a fine panoramic view of Dakar. You then cross the island via the market and colourful, picturesque streets.
Not far from the pier, the lunch will be served at a private mansion with local architecture. You will enjoy the famous national dish called "ceebu jën" (thiébou diène) recently included by UNESCO in the list of intagible of humanity. Then depending on time, you will enjoy time at leisure for local artcraft shopping before catching the ferry back to Dakar.
Back to Dakar, you will be transferred to the pier, to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
Located in the elegant and quiet Fann Corniche district, the Radisson Blu, Dakar Sea Plaza 5* is a modern and refined place. In front of the Mermoz Bay, the resort offers a serene experience. All rooms are characterized by their contemporary design and fully amenities. The hotel's restaurants and the infinity pool provide a perfect way to getaway.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
- 1-night accommodation in Superior Sea View room at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dakar Sea Plaza 5*, local standards (or similar), including breakfast.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (mineral water + 1 local drink of wine or 1 soft drink or 1 local beer + 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- Local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinner of day 1.
- Tips for the guide and the driver.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
- Early check-in and late check-out.
Please note:
- 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.
- The local currency is the CFA franc. US dollars and Euros are widely accepted.
- Tap water is not drinkable, we recommend you only drink bottled mineral water.
- This programme is done mostly on foot and involves some uneven ground, that’s why this is not recommended for people with reduced mobility.
- Check-in from 3 pm.
Contact of your hotel:
Radisson Blu Hotel
West Corniche Fann Residence
BP 16868 Dakar,
Telephone number: (+221) 3 3889 22 00
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$1,010
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Praia & Cidade Velha
Welcome to the largest and most African of the Cape Verde islands. This tour will take you to the heart of the recent capital, Praia, where you will discover the contrast between its history and the modern atmosphere that reigns there.
From the pier, you will meet your guide and drive to "the Plateau". There, you will start your guided walking tour of the historical centre of Praia. You will visit the Ethnological Museum which is located in a historic Portuguese colonial building. Your guide will tell you more about the way of life of the first inhabitants.
Afterwards, you will go to Cidade Velha which you will reach after 30 minutes of driving. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is the original capital of the Cape Verde Islands and the cradle of the slave trade.
Ribeira Grande, now known as Cidade Velha (“old city”), is the oldest city in Cape Verde Islands and was the first European settlement in the tropics. A colony was founded in 1462 by Antonio de Noli and prospered due to its prominent position in the slave trade. It became a city in 1572 and got a cathedral which was completed late in 1693. The great explorers Christopher Colombus and Vasco de Gama both stopped here on their respective expeditions, Christopher Colombus on his third voyage to the Americas in 1498, and Vasco de Gama on his way to India in 1497.
Before arriving, you will visit the ruins of the old Fort of Real do Sao Filipe, which overlooks the Cidade Velha. It was built in 1590 to protect Ribeira Grande after a devastating attack by the pirate Francis Drake. This defence soon proved insufficient and in 1712 the city was sacked again by the French pirate Jacques Cassart.
Once in the heart of Cidade Velha, you will discover the remains left by the first Portuguese settlers. You will visit its Cathedral, then you will walk along the Rua Banana and the Pelourinho, a pillory dating from the 16th century. Near these picturesque cobblestone streets, you will enjoy a coffee to the sound of the drums of a batuco group that will offer you a traditional dance performance.
After discovering the soul of this island, you will return to the port of Praia and your ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 1.5 km of walking over cobblestone streets with some steps. The transportation used is local bus and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. Euros banknotes are accepted at the souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Cape Verdean escapade
Dive into the heart of Cape Verde’s history and fall under the spell of the charms of the island of Santiago, its inhabitants and their secular traditions.
In Praia’s picturesque historic centre, more well-known to locals by the name of Platô or Plateau, stroll the paved streets that bear witness to the birth of the Cape Verdean nation, and be enchanted by the city’s most emblematic historic jewels. These include: the Nossa Senhora da Graça Church, steeped with centuries of devotion and mystery; the vegetable market, brimming with colours and local flavour, offering a glimpse into everyday Cape Verdean life; and the Ethnographic Museum, where you will be able to find out more about the archipelago’s culture, customs and traditions.
This sublime adventure will continue via breathtaking mountain scenery, through Sao Domingos to Rui Vaz, where a surprising culinary discovery awaits you in the form of a delicious traditional lunch.
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This excursion involves around 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking on paved and uneven streets, with some steps. The vehicles used are local transport and are not equipped with air conditioning or a sound system. Euro banknotes are accepted in all souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mindelo off road adventure
From the pier, you will board your 4x4 for a panoramic tour of the island of São Vicente, through breathtaking landscapes.
In the heart of unspoilt nature, your adventure will take you from the north coast to the south coast to Palha Carga Beach - a one-kilometre-long beach just for you. On the way, you will stop at Assomada to take pictures from the highest viewpoint on the island.
After enjoying a stop at a black sand beach and crossing the agricultural valley of the island, Ribeira de Calhau, you will stop inside the small crater of Topim and observe the uninhabited islands of Santa Luzia, Raso and Branco. Enjoy the beauty of the turquoise waters and white sand of Saragarça Beach and be seduced by the natural caves along the coast, formed at the end of a lava flow, with the backdrop of the Viana crater on your left and the view of Santa Luzia on your right. With a little luck, you may have the privilege to see ospreys (fish eagles).
Then, you will visit the fishing village of Calhau, with its colourful wooden sailboats and its typical Cape Verdean atmosphere before returning to you ship.
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This excursion is a panoramic tour (3 hours’ drive with photo stops) in an all-terrain vehicle and involves walking on rough roads with some steps. The vehicles used are local and do not have air conditioning or a sound system. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Each vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 2 passengers. Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for people with back or neck problems. There are no toilets during the tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Santo Antao, the authentic island
From the pier, board your van for a transfer to the national harbour, from where you will board a ferry for the one-hour ride to the neighbouring island of Santo Antao.
Upon your arrival, you will start your exploration with a panoramic drive along the coast to the greenest, almost tropical valley on the archipelago, the Paúl Valley, 1 ½ hour drive.
Here, you will start a moderate hike through splendid nature and through different plantations, enjoying the lushness of this valley and the friendliness of the population and their rural way of living. This valley is a main provider of the archipelago's produce, which includes bananas, potatoes, lettuce, papaya, mangos and breadfruit.
In the middle of this peaceful scenery, you will take a break to enjoy some of the fresh fruit that you can readily find in here. In this spectacular valley, you will see lots of sugarcane, which is used to make the local liquor, called Grogue. After your hike, you will visit a traditional sugar cane distillery with a "trapiche", a large press. You will have an introduction into the local grogue rum. No visit would be complete without a tasting.
Back aboard your van, head along the breathtaking coastline as, you make your way towards the fishing village of Ponta do Sol for a short guided visit. Next, you will head into the Valley of Ribeira Grande, where you will enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant.
Then, you will reboard your vehicle and pass along the former trading route, where you will have spectacular views into different valleys, and formations of the volcanic mountains. One of the highlights of this road is the view into the Cova crater, which is the birthplace of this island. Today, the rich soil found in the crater is perfect for farming and the crater floor is spotted with different types of agriculture, including corn.
After making your way over the mountain ridge, you will begin your descent onto the other side of the island and back to the harbour in Porto Novo.
Finally, you will take the ferry for the cruise back to Mindelo and your ship.
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The transportation used is local and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. This excursion involves approximately 0.6 miles (1 km) of walking over uneven terrain with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must be in good physical condition. The former trading route is narrow and winding and is not recommended for guests suffering from motion sickness.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Jaunt to Sao Vicente: culture, scenery and adventure
'Sao Vicente is characterised by its lack of water, which gives it a somewhat bare landscape. The island's appeal lies in its wild Atlantic beaches and its charming, colourful city known as the country's cultural capital. Succumb to the charms of this natural sanctuary with an ancestral culture.
Your scenic tour through Mindelo will have you discovering the heart of the city. It will take you past the Praia Nova, the Palacio de Povo, down the main street called Rua de Lisboa, and along the bustling Rua de Praia, lined with colourful colonial houses and monuments influenced by the Portuguese and British cultures.
Along the winding roads leading to Monte Verde, the islands tallest peak, you will take pleasure in admiring the variety of colours offered by the island's stones and rock formations. Make your way along the winding roads of Monte Verde, the highest peak on the island, to enjoy a panoramic view of most parts of the island: the city of Mindelo, the long beaches of yellow sand juxtaposing black volcanic rock, and Baia das Gatas, a bay with turquoise waters, famous for its annual music festival that gathers large parts of the country.
During a stop at Praia Grande beach, delight in the sound of the waves of the Atlantic as you walk along the sand, and taste the local sugarcane liqueur called grog. Finally, before returning to Mindelo to hear some of the Cape Verdean music for which the island of Sao Vicente is renowned, you will cross the former agricultural zone that was once vital to the island but which is now reduced due to the lack of rainfall.
- This excursion involves some time spent walking on cobblestone streets with some steps to negotiate. The coaches used are local buses with no air conditioning or sound system. Euros (banknotes only) are accepted in the souvenir shops in the cultural centre, but credit cards are not. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and bringing a jacket with you as it can get windy at the top of the mountain. Swimming is not allowed. The tasting is included in your tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Above the clouds of La Palma
Although it is one of the smallest islands in the Canaries, La Palma is exceptionally steep for its size. A ridge crosses the center of the island from north to south and the entire mountain range exceeds 2000 meters in altitude.
From the pier, you will continue to the highest point of La Palma, the "Roque de Los Muchachos", located on the northern side of the "Caldera de Taburiente" National Park, at an altitude of 2,426 meters. It was designated a national park in 1954 because of its immense scientific importance and its wild and exceptional landscapes.
No matter which direction you look, the enormous crater of the Caldera de Taburiente will always offer you incredible views. This park features one of the biggest craters in the world with a circumference of 28,000 metres, a diameter of 9,000 metres and a depth of 700 metres. It´s lined with a pine tree forest, lava deposits and features furrowed by cool streams.
Before reaching the top, you will see the peculiar scene known as the “Sea of Clouds”. Each visit to Roque de los Muchachos is different, as the clouds are never the same. A photo stop will be made at Roque de Los Muchachos viewpoint where you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the impressive Caldera de Taburiente.
The next stop will be at Roque de los Muchachos Visitor Centre, which is divided into 4 rooms. The first one, the Welcome Room houses the reception, the auditorium, the store and a large interactive table, where you will discover what makes up the telescopes of the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory. Room 1 “The Canary Islands, a window to the Universe”: you will discover the reasons why the Canary Island were strategically chosen to house the most important telescopes in the world. Room 2 “Exploring the Universe”: here, you will dive into the depths of the cosmos, exploring all the corners of science and our Universe. Room 3 “Back to Earth”: in this room you will return to the municipality of Villa de Garafía, where the Visitor Centre is located. You will discover their traditions, their way of life, and their natural and cultural heritage.
After the visit you will have some free time to enjoy the amazing surroundings before heading to the port.
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Roque de los Muchachos is located at 2,423 metres above sea level, so this excursion is not recommended for people with respiratory distress and heart problems. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and warm clothes. Please note that visibility is dependent on weather conditions. If the weather conditions are not good, the roads to Roque de Los Muchachos may be closed.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
TRANSFER FROM THE PIER TO THE AIRPORT OF LAS PALMAS
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Las Palmas
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking assistance.
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.
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$80
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.