Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Renaud Capuçon’s Caribbean Celebration: 50 Years in Paradise
Fort-de-France - Fort-de-France
Dates:
23/12/2026
to
30/12/2026
days
nights on board
Embark on a unique musical adventure through the West Indies with renowned violinist and conductor Renaud Capuçon. To celebrate his 50th birthday, the virtuoso invites you to discover his musical universe, surrounded by beaches of white sand, turquoise lagoons, a stunning coral reef and welcoming, colourful villages. On this cruise, the idyllic landscapes of the Grenadine archipelago, Les Saintes and Saint Lucia with its famous Pitons, will provide a stunning backdrop for the performances of a line-up of artists brought together for the occasion by our partners Radio Classique and Alain Duault.
Ref : EG231226
Your itinerary
Every evening, enjoy an exclusive concert on board with our guest artist. Unique scenery (coral reef, lagoons, Saint Lucia’s UNESCO-listed Pitons, etc.) and fascinating marine life (opportunities to...
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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
LE LAPÉROUSE
2/4/2026 to the 12/4/2026
LE CHAMPLAIN
3/12/2025 to the 13/12/2025
LE BORÉAL
14/5/2026 to the 24/5/2026
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
*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
Renaud Capuçon
Born in Chambéry in 1976, Renaud Capuçon started at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris aged fourteen, winning numerous awards during his five years there. Following this, Capuçon studied under Thomas Brandis and Isaac Stern in Berlin, and was awarded the Prize of the Berlin Academy of Arts. In 1997, he was invited by Claudio Abbado to become concert master of the Gustav Mahler Jugendorchester, which he led for three years, working with conductors such as Boulez, Ozawa, Welser-Möst and Claudio Abbado.
Since then, Capuçon has established himself as a soloist at the very highest level. He performs with leading orchestras such as the Berliner Philharmoniker, Vienna Philharmonic, London Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra of Europe, Orchestre National de France, Orchestre Philharmonique de Radio France, Filarmonica della Scala, Boston Symphony and New York Philharmonic. His many conductor relationships include Gergiev, Barenboim, Bychkov, Dénève, Dohnanyi, Dudamel, Eschenbach, Haitink, Harding, Paavo Järvi, Nelsons, Nézet-Seguin, Roth, Shani, Ticciati, van Zweden and Long Yu.
He has built an extensive discography and records exclusively with Erato/Warner Classics. Recent releases include a recording of Bartok’s two violin concerti with the LSO/Roth, Brahms and Berg with the VPO/Harding, and chamber music of Debussy. His latest recording, 'Cinema', featuring much loved selections from film music, was released in October 2018.
He is the Artistic Director of the Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad since 2016 and founded the Aix-en-Provence Easter Festival in 2013. In 2018, Capuçon formed the Lausanne Soloists, comprised of former and current students of the Haute École de Musique de Lausanne, where he has held a professorship since 2014. He plays the Guarneri del Gesù 'Panette' (1737), which belonged to Isaac Stern. In 2011 he was appointed 'Chevalier dans l'Ordre National du Mérite' and in 2016 'Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur' by the French Government.
Language spoken: French
Photo credit: Simon Fowler
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
Diving & initiation dive
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 1 star CMAS or the PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 20 metres.
- If two Stars CMAS or PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Process of the initiation dives (novice divers)
Before your initiation dive, your instructor will show you the equipment and will explain to you how to communicate underwater using hand gestures and how to breathe through a regulator. Once in the water, equipped with your material, you will learn how to breathe through your regulator on the surface for a couple of minutes. When your instructor feels you are ready, he will immerse you in water for about 20 minutes to a depth of 6 metres maximum.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Fauna and flora of the Caribbean Sea
The fauna of the Caribbean Sea is very varied. During the different dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as French angel fish, queen angel fish, spotted drums, puffer fish, parrots fish, and pelagic fauna such as spotted eagle ray, barracudas, horse eyes jackfish, as well as fixed wildlife such as gorgonians and barrel sponges.
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
|
PORT OF CALL |
DIVES (for certified divers) |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING (for beginners) |
|
Martinique – Fort-de-France |
NO |
NO |
|
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines –Union Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – Tobago Cays Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – Mayreau island |
YES |
YES |
|
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines – Port Elizabeth, Bequia Island |
YES |
YES |
|
Saint Lucia - Pigeon Island Beach |
YES |
NO |
|
Saint Lucia – Soufrière |
YES |
NO |
|
Guadeloupe – Les Saintes |
YES |
YES |
|
Martinique – Fort-de-France |
NO |
NO |
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending on weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
Rates
Excellence and Passion packages must be pre-booked with your travel consultant before departure. Beyond that, all reservations will be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
Introductory dives, Exploration dives and Discovery packages must be organised on board directly with your diving instructor.
Price per person
- Introductory dive:
- Introductory dive (1 dive): €100
- Discovery Package (2 dives) : €180
- Certified divers :
- Exploration (1 dive) : €100
- Excellence Package (3 dives) : €280
- Passion Package (6 dives) : €535
Radio Classique
France's leading classical music radio station and a recognized reference for general, economic and cultural information. RADIO CLASSIQUE offers a unique musical experience: sharing the emotion of the finest works of the classical repertoire by the best performers in a friendly, peaceful atmosphere.
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Highlights
- Every evening, enjoy an exclusive concert on board with our guest artist.
- Unique scenery (coral reef, lagoons, Saint Lucia’s UNESCO-listed Pitons, etc.) and fascinating marine life (opportunities to observe turtles, barracudas, parrotfish, etc.).
- Included excursions*: relax and enjoy a barbecue on the island of Mayreau, go swimming, discover Les Saintes by boat, etc., and water-based activities (including scuba diving**).
*Included excursions must be pre-booked approximately two months prior to departure, subject to availability.
**Scuba diving with an experienced instructor, Level 1 or CMAS 1-star diver or equivalent required.
Ports of Call & Excursions
23 December 2026 - Fort-de-France
Embarkation 23/12/2026 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 23/12/2026 at 10:00 pm
Located on the western coast of Martinique, Fort-de-France will amaze you by the splendour of its bay, a magnificent cut-out in the coastline, considered as one of the most beautiful in the world. At the harbour mouth, on its strip of land, fort Saint-Louis overlooks the capital city of Martinique. If you climb up to it, you can see some breath-taking views. Saint Louis Cathedral and the Schoelcher library bear witness to a secular history, intimately linked to the island’s story. Why not try some fresh coconut at the colourful Grand Marché. Two really pleasant places you can take a breather in, right in the heart of the city, are the garden of Balata and the Aimé Césaire park.
24 December 2026 - Union Island
Arrival 24/12/2026 midday
Departure 24/12/2026 late evening
Deserted bays, long stretches of golden sand, turquoise waters and endless coral reefs – Union Island is without a doubt one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. Overlooked by soaring peaks, this strange little strip of land owes its nickname of “the Tahiti of the West Indies” to its volcanic silhouette and its large swathes of greenery. When you call here, you will discover what the locals consider to be “the best-kept secret in the Grenadines” -Chatham Bay. Surrounded by hills and valleys carpeted in tropical rainforest, sheltering many sea turtles, this delightful half-moon of sand is, each day, the setting for the tireless ballet of the numerous pelicans who inhabit the island.
25 December 2026 - Tobago Cays
Arrival 25/12/2026 early morning
Departure 25/12/2026 late afternoon
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.
26 December 2026 - Mayreau Island
Arrival 26/12/2026 early morning
Departure 26/12/2026 late afternoon
Among the string of paradisiac islands with their sandy beaches that form the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines archipelago, Mayreau is the smallest. Its peaceful and idyllic atmosphere, far from the madding crowd, invites you to relax. On shore, enjoy a shaded and fully equipped beach from which to go snorkelling if you’d like to observe the colourful fish around the coral sitting at the foot of the rocks that stretch across the bay.
27 December 2026 - Port Elizabeth, Bequia Island
Arrival 27/12/2026 early morning
Departure 27/12/2026 early 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.
28 December 2026 - Pigeon Island Beach
Arrival 28/12/2026 early morning
Departure 28/12/2026 midday
Linked to St Lucia by a sand causeway, Pigeon Island has been a designated National Park since 1979. On this wild and pristine land, you will be inspired to take pleasant walks amid the tropical vegetation and through a magnificent tree-filled garden. You will also be irresistibly drawn to the two pretty little sandy beaches nestling on the southern side and bathed by crystal-clear waters. While snorkelling, be sure to explore the underwater world that is teeming with life, along the rocks lining this peninsula’s coast. You will thoroughly enjoy the calm and beauty of this place, which is really conducive to simply relaxing.
28 December 2026 - Soufrière
Arrival 28/12/2026 mid afternoon
Departure 28/12/2026 early evening
Nestled in the crook of a breath-taking bay, the former capital of St Lucia is brimming with attractions. Soufrière is famous for The Pitons, volcanic spires that tower over the entrance to the town. In the vicinity of the lush botanical gardens, you will be able to enjoy the curative powers of the Diamond Falls mineral baths. From the beach at the north end of the bay, you can set off to explore the reefs that are home to stunning gardens of sea fans at the foot of the cliffs that plunge into the sea.
29 December 2026 - Les Saintes
Arrival 29/12/2026 early morning
Departure 29/12/2026 late afternoon
During the feast of All Saints in 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered this archipelago of nine islands that he named "The Saints". Today, only two of them are inhabited. Terre de Haut, in the east, is dominated by the Morne Mire hill; at the summit stands Fort Napoleon, paying homage to the islands' history. In the heart of the botanical garden, shared by iguanas and cacti, there is an exceptional view of the Baie des Saintes, one of the most beautiful in the world. The long shady beach of Pompierre, where it is forbidden to drop anchor, is a peaceful place for a swim, while Pain de Sucre Beach offers wonderful opportunities for snorkelling. On the island, don’t forget to taste the local speciality, the “tourment d’amour”, a cake made with coconut.
30 December 2026 - Fort-de-France
Arrival 30/12/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 30/12/2026 at 8:00 am
Located on the western coast of Martinique, Fort-de-France will amaze you by the splendour of its bay, a magnificent cut-out in the coastline, considered as one of the most beautiful in the world. At the harbour mouth, on its strip of land, fort Saint-Louis overlooks the capital city of Martinique. If you climb up to it, you can see some breath-taking views. Saint Louis Cathedral and the Schoelcher library bear witness to a secular history, intimately linked to the island’s story. Why not try some fresh coconut at the colourful Grand Marché. Two really pleasant places you can take a breather in, right in the heart of the city, are the garden of Balata and the Aimé Césaire park.
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, an 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.
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.
Timeless
With one included excursion per day and per guest*, and the presence of expert lecturers on board, Timeless Explorations blend cultural curiosity, immersive experiences, and serene relaxation. A refined way to journey far from the everyday, both in mind and in spirit.
- Activities: One included excursion per day and per guest. Optional paid excursions are also available depending on the port of call.
- Landings (depending on the destination): By dock, tender boat, or aboard local vessels.
- Your experts on board: The dedicated excursion team and one or more guest lecturers.
- Children: Children from one year of age are welcome on board (from 8 years old on board Le Commandant Charcot).
*Excluding Paul Gauguin
The full program of all excursions, both included and optional, is available eight months prior to departure. Reservations open approximately two months before departure.
Christmas Cruise
Christmas celebrations in an exceptional environment: change of scenery guaranteed.
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.
Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts, or ballets — whether at sea or on land, musical and dance cruises offer exclusive experiences in an intimate setting. These voyages are enriched by prestigious partners such as Radio Classique and the Paris Opera, and feature internationally renowned, talented artists.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
TRANSFER TO THE PIER OF FORT-DE-FRANCE
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Fort-de-France
Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local English-speaking representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be directly transferred to the pier for embarkation. The duration of the transfer is approximately 45 minutes.
Your programme includes:
· Transfer by coach from the airport to the port.
· Services of a local English-speaking hostess at the airport.
Your programme does not include:
· Tips for the driver and hostess.
· Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration of the transfer may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT's selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : AU$80
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.FLAVOURS OF MARTINIQUE
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Fort-de-France
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
First you will be taken to Balata Botanical Garden Created by the expert botanist Jean-Philippe Thoze in 1982, this garden is an epic floral works of art made out of roses, hibiscus, orchids, and many other plants. Today it contains about 3,000 varieties of tropical plants from around the world. It is organized around the family house built in a typical creole style. You will experience a nice stroll in the quiet, shady paths lined with colourful flowers appealing to the eyes as much as to the smell.
You will then join the restaurant where your lunch will be served.
You will continue your exploration to the village of Le Francois for the visit of the Habitation Clement. The Habitation Clement stands an important place in the architectural and industrial patrimony of Martinique. It has been recognized as a Historic Monument by the Ministry of Culture. The term 'Habitation' in its Creole sense, describes a property and its structures dedicate to agricultural or commercial purpose. You will get the chance to visit the domain, the main house and the distillery. At the end of your visit, enjoy a Rum tasting.
After your visit, you will be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
· Lunch with beverages package (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local beer or 1 glass of wine + 1 coffee or tea).
· Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
· Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
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$310
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.CREOLE COOKING CLASS & RUM TASTING
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Fort-de-France
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
Board your bus and you will be taken to the prestigious Clement plantation, nestled in the heart of sugar cane plantations. The Habitation Clément offers a unique opportunity to discover the techniques and manufacturing process of its famous beverage. A natural product derived from the direct distillation of sugar cane juice, agricultural rum, prepared on the estate since 1917, is first and foremost a story of tradition. Visit the distillery, the gardens, the Art Gallery, Lucie's house, the Master's House and end your visit with a rum-tasting.
Continue your trip to Trois Ilets village to meet one of the best chef in Martinique.
You will share with your chief her cooking experience in Martinique while cooking a full menu (first course, main course, dessert. All meals include the use of fresh seasonal produce carefully selected. You may go home with all recipes.
Savour your Creole dishes under a shady awning. You will accompany your lunch with a rum tasting and homemade cocktails.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
· Lunch with beverages package (mineral water + 1 local juice or 1 local cocktail + coffee or tea).
· Transfers, visits and activities as mentioned in the programme.
· Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
· Tips for the driver and local guide.
· Personal expenses
· Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note :
· Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this activity to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.
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$310
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.