Mistral Stateroom
14 m²
2
Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht. The finest travel address on the waters of the world.
The Caribbean. The mere mention of this vast archipelago conjures images of waves dancing along the shoreline, lapping against long beaches lined with elegant palm trees. During this unforgettable 8-day cruise, spend your time contemplating and exploring aboard PONANT’s emblematic yacht.
You will move away from the shores of Guadeloupe and sail under wind power towards Dominica, the wildest and most mountainous island in the Lesser Antilles. In Portsmouth, in a local boat, you will go deep into the fascinating mangals of the Indian River edged with mangrove trees and populated with green herons, moorhens, pelicans and kingfishers. On the banks, you will meet the Kalinago people, one of the indigenous Caribbean peoples. The chief will welcome you into his village, tell you about the history of his people and invite you to taste their food.
In the muted décor of Le Ponant, each moment of your cruise is steeped in the peacefulness of the Caribbean. It is now time to set sail for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Carried by the wind dancing around the ship’s rigging, you will reach this strikingly beautiful archipelago. From island to island, savour the gentleness of the Creole way of life, admire the beauty of the sunsets, and explore the waters teeming with life.
Following a port of call on Bequia, where an indigenous fisherman is trying to save Hawksbill sea turtles from extinction, you have a very good chance of finding yourself face to face with one of these creatures in the warm and crystal-clear waters of Tobago Cays and Sandy Island. Thanks to the horseshoe-shaped coral reef connecting these four uninhabited islets, the Tobago Cays archipelago constitutes a real marine wildlife reserve that you can explore while swimming, diving or snorkelling. Back on your yacht, stretched out on the deck, barefoot and facing the wind, you will see the terns and pelicans flying in the azure-blue sky.
After sailing beneath the stars, the jagged silhouette of the pitons of Saint Lucia will appear on the horizon in the early morning light. Weather permitting, you will drop anchor and make the most of the rear deck to swim in this picture-postcard setting. In the evening, you will arrive in Les Anses-d’Arlet. With its colourful houses set on the beach, the tall brick-coloured church belltower standing out against a background of green mountains, and the pontoon jutting out over the sea, it is a perfect spot for admiring the sunset.
On Marie-Galante, the final port of call of your cruise, you will enjoy practically deserted beaches and be immersed in an authentic and agricultural atmosphere focused on growing sugar cane. After this crossing in the form of an ode to freedom, you will gently return to terra firma in Pointe-à-Pitre.
Ref : PO150225
A cruise off the beaten path in the Grenadines, featuring unique aquatic encounters, wild landscapes and special moments of relaxation aboard Le Ponant. Meeting the Kalinagos, an indigenous Caribbean people...
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Complete your trip
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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*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
Select your stateroom category
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.
For women: simple dress, skirt or trousers, blouse, polo
For men: pleated trousers or chinos, sports jacket, shirt, polo
ACCESSORIES:
HEALTH CARE:
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Diving & initiation dive
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 1 star CMAS or the PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
Process of the initiation dives (novice divers)
Before your initiation dive, your instructor will show you the equipment and will explain to you how to communicate underwater using hand gestures and how to breathe through a regulator. Once in the water, equipped with your material, you will learn how to breathe through your regulator on the surface for a couple of minutes. When your instructor feels you are ready, he will immerse you in water for about 20 minutes to a depth of 6 metres maximum.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Fauna and flora of the Caribbean Sea
The fauna of the Caribbean Sea is very varied. During the different dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as French angel fish, queen angel fish, spotted drums, puffer fish, parrots fish, and pelagic fauna such as spotted eagle ray, barracudas, horse eyes jackfish, as well as fixed wildlife such as gorgonians and barrel sponges.
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
PORT OF CALL |
DIVES (for certified divers) |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING (for beginners) |
Guadeloupe – Pointe-à-Pitre |
NO |
NO |
Dominica - Portsmouth |
YES |
NO |
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – Port Elizabeth, Bequia Island |
YES |
YES |
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – Tobago Cays |
YES |
NO |
Grenada – Sandy Island, Carriacou |
YES |
YES |
Saint Lucia - Soufriere |
YES |
NO |
Martinique – Les Anses d’Arlet |
YES |
YES |
Guadeloupe – Marie-Galante |
YES |
NO |
Guadeloupe – Pointe-à-Pitre |
NO |
NO |
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending on weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
La faune et la flore de la mer des Caraïbes
La faune et la flore de la mer des Caraïbes sont très variées. Lors des différentes plongées, les plongeurs pourront observer diverses espèces de la faune benthique, comme les poissons anges français et royaux, les poissons chevaliers ponctués, les diodons, les poissons perroquets et de la faune pélagique telle que des raies aigle léopard, des barracudas, des carangues à gros yeux, ainsi que de la faune fixée telles des gorgones et des éponges barriques.
Rates
Excellence and Passion packages must be pre-booked with your travel consultant before departure. Beyond that, all reservations will be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
Introductory dives, Exploration dives and Discovery packages must be organised on board directly with your diving instructor.
Price per person
Embarkation 15/2/2025 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 15/2/2025 at 6:30 pm
At the crossroads of cultures, where European influence mingles with the richness of the Caribbean and the diversity of indigenous traditions, Pointe-à-Pitre promises a unique experience. Here, nestled on the southern coast of the island of Grande-Terre in Guadeloupe, in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, you will fall in love with the heavenly landscapes that reveal themselves to you, including white-sand beaches, verdant mountains, and lush tropical forests. Along the bustling streets of the city, you will discover Creole authenticity through the colourful markets, the traditional wooden houses, and the warm hospitality of the locals.
Arrival 16/2/2025 midday
Departure 16/2/2025 late afternoon
With its mountainous terrain, vast tropical forest, hot springs, rivers and spectacular waterfalls, Dominica is undoubtedly the wildest island in the Caribbean. Protected by several national parks, this little-known land, located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, between Guadeloupe and Martinique, will inspire adventure and exploration. During your port of call, do not miss out on discovering the enchanting landscapes of the Indian River: navigating through this dense mangrove, in which creepers, ferns, forest trees and giant roots are interweaved, is a magical experience, a fascinating voyage into the heart of an almost mystical natural universe.
Arrival 17/2/2025 early afternoon
Departure 17/2/2025 late evening
In the heart of the Caribbean, Bequia is the second-largest of 32 islands that make up the country of St Vincent and the Grenadines. You will love the lively and picturesque atmosphere of Port Elizabeth, the island’s main town. From the port, a promenade lined with beautiful traditional houses, landscaped gardens and small restaurants runs along the shoreline. It leads to Princess Margaret Beach, a wild beach where Princess Margaret herself has stayed and which seems to emerge directly from the tropical forest. From rainforest to lush meadows and long stretches of sand, Bequia will offer you a natural setting that is conducive to lovely walks and to spending time on the beach.
Arrival 18/2/2025 early morning
Departure 18/2/2025
Scattered between St Vincent and Grenada, the Tobago Cays comprises five little islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tabac and Jamesby. This rosary of uninhabited cays in the southern West Indies is a marine park whose turquoise lagoons provide a home and safe haven for some outstanding marine fauna, including peaceful green turtles. Girded and united by a coral reef, these secluded islands are a peaceful paradise for divers, swimmers and snorkellers.
Arrival 19/2/2025 early morning
Departure 19/2/2025 mid afternoon
West of Carriacou, the northernmost island in the state of Grenada, is Sandy Island, a spit of sand set in the bewitching Caribbean waters. Known for its powdery white sand and small lagoon with crystal clear waters, this wild islet, dotted with coconut trees, offers a natural setting for swimming and snorkelling. The abundant and colourful marine life promises memorable and thrilling encounters. Listed as a marine protected area, the site is also a hunting ground for numerous pelicans. Enjoy a fascinating show as they circle above the water before diving suddenly to catch their prey.
Arrival 20/2/2025 early morning
Departure 20/2/2025 early morning
You will sail off the coast of the Pitons in Soufrière Bay. The Pitons are two volcanic spires, covered in tropical rainforest, rising side by side from the sea – they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area’s volcanic complex includes a geothermal field with sulphurous fumaroles and hot springs. In the marine area, coral reefs are home to very diverse fauna, including hawksbill sea turtles, pilot whales and whale sharks, these harmless gentle giants that you will perhaps be lucky enough to observe by diving in the sea behind the ship.
Arrival 20/2/2025
Departure 20/2/2025
During your day at sea on board Le Ponant, make the most of your free time and the comfort of your ship for a moment of rest or conviviality. If the weather is right, let yourself be tempted by a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to do some shopping in the boutique and share the highlights of your cruise with the other passengers. 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 relaxation, sharing and the pleasure of sailing on a yacht.
Arrival 20/2/2025 early afternoon
Departure 20/2/2025 evening
Lying on the south-western end of Martinique, the charming town of Les Anses-d’Arlet reveals all the colours of the West Indies: from the azure blue of the Caribbean Sea and the emerald green of the surrounding vegetation to the reds, yellows and purples of the traditional Creole houses. This former fishing village, with its picture-postcard appearance and its typical and peaceful atmosphere, promises a unique interlude during which you will be able to spend moments relaxing on long white sandy beaches, discover local culture and explore the lush nature with its singular biodiversity.
Arrival 21/2/2025 midday
Departure 21/2/2025 evening
It is undoubtedly because Marie-Galante concentrates all the charms of the Caribbean into one island that it is today one of the most in-demand destinations in the region. “The island of 100 mills” or the “great galette” as it is sometimes known, in reference to the form of its 15 km diameter limestone plateau, is surrounded by white sandy beaches that are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean In Saint-Louis, you can take the time to bathe in its turquoise waters, relax under the palm trees and almond trees or stroll along the colourful streets of the village.
Arrival 22/2/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 22/2/2025 at 8:00 am
At the crossroads of cultures, where European influence mingles with the richness of the Caribbean and the diversity of indigenous traditions, Pointe-à-Pitre promises a unique experience. Here, nestled on the southern coast of the island of Grande-Terre in Guadeloupe, in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, you will fall in love with the heavenly landscapes that reveal themselves to you, including white-sand beaches, verdant mountains, and lush tropical forests. Along the bustling streets of the city, you will discover Creole authenticity through the colourful markets, the traditional wooden houses, and the warm hospitality of the locals.
From the pier, board your coach for a 15-minute transfer to the Indian River.
The Indian River is like a mini-Amazon teeming with life. It runs through the centre of the town of Portsmouth, in the North of Dominica. The river was named the Indian River after the settlements of the Kalinago, formally known as Carib Indians, which existed on the upper banks of that river.
The Indian River gushes down the Morne aux Diables Mountain range and gently meanders down to the lowlands of Portsmouth, where it flows gracefully into the Caribbean Sea. Due to its unique formation, being below sea level, the water at the lower areas of the river is brackish, contributing to the unique variety of plants and animal life. The Indian River showcases flora and fauna that are specific only to that area of Dominica. Local fauna includes herons, king fisher, iguanas, and a variety of other birds, many of which are still present after the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Maria. Vegetation continues to grow and is returning in full force.
Experienced boatmen in hand-oared wooden rowboats will take you up the slow-moving river at a leisurely pace, so that you can appreciate the many types of wildlife and plant life along the swampy riverbanks.
See first-hand where scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean were filmed. Upriver you can take a short 10-minute walk in the botanical gardens and visit the renowned "Bush Bar?, where you can try their homemade rum punch.
After your 2-hour adventure, you will reboard your coach for a 15-minute drive back to your ship.
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.
From the ship, you will reach the pier and board your local Jeep for a captivating journey through stunning landscapes in Bequia.
After a picturesque drive, you will arrive at Mount Pleasant and immerse yourself in its charming surroundings and breathtaking natural beauty.
You will then reboard your Jeep and visit a renowned model boat shop, offering the chance to admire exquisite craftsmanship and intricate details of handmade model boats. Explore the shop and uncover the artistry behind these remarkable creations.
Your journey will then take you to Fort Hamilton, a historic site boasting panoramic vistas and providing insight into the island's rich heritage. You be able to observe its magnificient architecture and delve into the intriguing history of the fort.
Your last stop will be at Firefly Estate where you will explore the grounds while learning about the estate's history and its sugar mill, dating back to 1789. Indulge in a delightful fruit-tasting and savor refreshing drinks amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Finally, you will reboard your Jeep and be back at your ship.
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.
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
15/2/2025 - FLIGHTS FROM/ TO PARIS + TRANSFER FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE PIER (PRE) + FLAVOURS OF GUADELOUPE (POST)
AU$0
Find out moreTravel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Pointe-à-Pitre
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
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$60
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
From the pier, board your coach for a 15-minute transfer to the Indian River.
The Indian River is like a mini-Amazon teeming with life. It runs through the centre of the town of Portsmouth, in the North of Dominica. The river was named the Indian River after the settlements of the Kalinago, formally known as Carib Indians, which existed on the upper banks of that river.
The Indian River gushes down the Morne aux Diables Mountain range and gently meanders down to the lowlands of Portsmouth, where it flows gracefully into the Caribbean Sea. Due to its unique formation, being below sea level, the water at the lower areas of the river is brackish, contributing to the unique variety of plants and animal life. The Indian River showcases flora and fauna that are specific only to that area of Dominica. Local fauna includes herons, king fisher, iguanas, and a variety of other birds, many of which are still present after the devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Maria. Vegetation continues to grow and is returning in full force.
Experienced boatmen in hand-oared wooden rowboats will take you up the slow-moving river at a leisurely pace, so that you can appreciate the many types of wildlife and plant life along the swampy riverbanks.
See first-hand where scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean were filmed. Upriver you can take a short 10-minute walk in the botanical gardens and visit the renowned "Bush Bar?, where you can try their homemade rum punch.
After your 2-hour adventure, you will reboard your coach for a 15-minute drive back to your ship.
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.
From the ship, you will reach the pier and board your local Jeep for a captivating journey through stunning landscapes in Bequia.
After a picturesque drive, you will arrive at Mount Pleasant and immerse yourself in its charming surroundings and breathtaking natural beauty.
You will then reboard your Jeep and visit a renowned model boat shop, offering the chance to admire exquisite craftsmanship and intricate details of handmade model boats. Explore the shop and uncover the artistry behind these remarkable creations.
Your journey will then take you to Fort Hamilton, a historic site boasting panoramic vistas and providing insight into the island's rich heritage. You be able to observe its magnificient architecture and delve into the intriguing history of the fort.
Your last stop will be at Firefly Estate where you will explore the grounds while learning about the estate's history and its sugar mill, dating back to 1789. Indulge in a delightful fruit-tasting and savor refreshing drinks amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Finally, you will reboard your Jeep and be back at your ship.
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.
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Pointe-à-PitreOnce you have completed your disembarkation formalities, you will leave the port in a coach to head to the Valombreuse Botanical Gardens. Between sea, reliefs and rivers, the island of Basse-Terre offers magnificent scenery and sites. After a brief tour, you will discover the tropical forest, in the town of Petit Bourg. From there, you will explore the Valombreuse Botanical Gardens, created in 1989 by Magguy Chaulet. Whether you stroll along the paths or use the little train, you will take the time to discover its collection of exceptional endemic plants: orchids, ferns, red and white flowering ginger, red ginger lilies, 300-year old trees, and so on.
You will then continue inland on the island of Basse-Terre, to go north, more precisely to Lamentin.
In a corner of vegetation, the Green Lord Domaine will open its doors to you for a Creole gastronomic experience exclusively dedicated to Ponant guests.
Enjoy tasting the Creole cuisine of Chef Gilda, inspired not only by Creole heritage but also by flavours from around the world. The dishes are built around local fishing and agriculture, as well as spices from all over the planet.
After this gastronomic interlude, you will return to the airport by bus for your return flight.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
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$550
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Total : AU$0
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.