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- New
Tropical Odyssey between North East Australia and Indonesia
Cairns - Benoa, Bali
Dates:
20/2/2023
to
7/3/2023
16
days
days
15
nights on board
nights on board
Starting from*
AU$11,730
25% Ponant Bonus
Tropical Expedition 
Diving PONANT invites you to embark on board Le Lapérouse for a brand-new 16-day tropical expedition cruise to discover the sublime natural landscapes of the north east of Australia and Indonesia.
After boarding Le Laperouse in Cairns, your first destination is Lizard Island. Located at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, this 1,000-hectare Island is home to sublime white sand beaches fringed by coral reefs teeming with life.
Then, you will cross Cape York - where the Pacific and Indian Oceans meet.
Further north, you will discover the Asmat region, one of the most isolated and mysterious regions in the world.
Then, you will sail to the heart of Triton Bay. Located within a protected marine environment in the middle of the Coral Triangle, you will enjoy an unforgettable Zodiac® cruise through the spectacular rainforest capped karst islands.
Le Lapérouse will continue to sail in the Indonesian province of West Papua to allow you to admire the superb natural site of Kitikiti Waterfall surrounded by lush nature.
In the Maluku Islands, dubbed the “Spice Islands”, you will discover Banda Neira, shaped by Dutch and Portuguese influences.
After a stopover in the fabulous Barat Daya Islands, you will head for Kalabahi. This authentic destination in the Alor archipelago provides the opportunity to interact with local people who have preserved their traditional practices and customs.
You will then head to Flores before visiting your final destination of Komodo National Park. This wild and isolated island is home to the famous Komodo dragons.
Your cruise will conclude in Bali, “the island of the gods” with its captivating charm and grace.
Ref : ER200223
Your itinerary
A brand-new cruise to discover the lush north-east of Australia and the heavenly islands of Indonesia, between sumptuous landscapes and meetings with the local population. Outings and shore visits in Zodiac®...
See detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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Dates:
11/4/2022 to the 19/4/2022
11/4/2022 to the 19/4/2022
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands - Málaga
LE LYRIAL
LE LYRIAL
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Dates:
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- New
Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen - Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
FLIGHT PARIS/LONGYEARBYEN + TRANSFERS + FLIGHT LONGYEARBYEN/PARIS
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Dates:
15/6/2022 to the 23/6/2022
15/6/2022 to the 23/6/2022
Ushuaia - Ushuaia
LE BOREAL
LE BOREAL
Night in Buenos Aires + flight Buenos Aires/Ushuaia + visit + flight Ushuaia/Buenos Aires
10 nights on board
Dates
Departure
Arrival
Ships
Cruise code
Ponant Bonus
Prices from
8/12/2021 to 19/12/2021
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
L'AUSTRAL
UUVI45 - A091221
5% Ponant Bonus
AU$16,050
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Fully booked
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
3/1/2022 to 14/1/2022
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
L'AUSTRAL
UUVJ45 - A040122
15% Ponant Bonus
AU$14,660
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
9/1/2022 to 20/1/2022
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE BOREAL
UUVZ45 - B100122
AU$16,750
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
20/1/2022 to 31/1/2022
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE LYRIAL
UUFQ45 - Y210122
20% Ponant Bonus
AU$13,960
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite
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Prestige Deck 5 Suite
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Suite Grand Deluxe
Grand Privilege Suite
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
9/2/2022 to 20/2/2022
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE LYRIAL
UUFS45 - Y100222
20% Ponant Bonus
AU$13,960
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Privilège Suite
Suite Grand Deluxe
Grand Privilege Suite
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
10/2/2022 to 21/2/2022
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
L'AUSTRAL
UUVM45 - A110222
20% Ponant Bonus
AU$13,960
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
19/2/2022 to 2/3/2022
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE LYRIAL
UUFT45 - Y200222
AU$16,750
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Fully booked
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Fully booked
Deluxe Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Privilège Suite
Suite Grand Deluxe
Grand Privilege Suite
Fully booked
Owner's Suite
20/2/2022 to 3/3/2022
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
L'AUSTRAL
UUXT45 - A210222
30% Ponant Bonus
AU$12,570
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
10/12/2022 to 21/12/2022
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
L'AUSTRAL
UUWO45 - A111222
10% Ponant Bonus
AU$15,350
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
16/12/2022 to 27/12/2022
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE BOREAL
UUWR45 - B171222
25% Ponant Bonus
AU$13,270
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
26/12/2022 to 6/1/2023
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE BOREAL
UUGI45 - B271222
20% Ponant Bonus
AU$15,170
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
9/1/2023 to 20/1/2023
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
L'AUSTRAL
UUWZ45 - AU100123
20% Ponant Bonus
AU$14,000
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
15/1/2023 to 26/1/2023
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE BOREAL
UUXF45 - BO160123
15% Ponant Bonus
AU$14,690
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
25/1/2023 to 5/2/2023
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE BOREAL
UUXG45 - BO260123
5% Ponant Bonus
AU$16,090
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Fully booked
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
1/2/2023 to 11/2/2023
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE LYRIAL
UUXI45 - LY010223
AU$16,790
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Fully booked
Deluxe Stateroom
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Fully booked
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Prestige Deck 5 Suite
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Privilège Suite
Suite Grand Deluxe
Grand Privilege Suite
Owner's Suite
4/2/2023 to 15/2/2023
Ushuaia
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LE BOREAL
UUXH45 - BO050223
20% Ponant Bonus
AU$14,000
Emblematic Antarctica
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Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Fully booked
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
10/2/2023 to 21/2/2023
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE LYRIAL
UUXJ45 - LY110223
25% Ponant Bonus
AU$13,300
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Privilège Suite
Suite Grand Deluxe
Grand Privilege Suite
Owner's Suite
14/2/2023 to 25/2/2023
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
LE BOREAL
UUGL45 - BO150223
25% Ponant Bonus
AU$14,190
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
22/2/2023 to 5/3/2023
Ushuaia
Ushuaia
L'AUSTRAL
UUXC45 - AU230223
25% Ponant Bonus
AU$13,300
Emblematic Antarctica
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
Cairns - Honiara, Guadalcanal Island
LE SOLEAL
LE SOLEAL
Transfer + flight Honiara/Brisbane
10 nights on board
Dates
Departure
Arrival
Ships
Cruise code
Ponant Bonus
Prices from
11/10/2022 to 21/10/2022
Cairns
Honiara, Guadalcanal Island
LE SOLEAL
CH135 - S111022
AU$10,560
Ancient Cultures of Papua New Guinea
Superior Stateroom
Deluxe Stateroom
Prestige Deck 4
Prestige Deck 5
Prestige Deck 6
Deluxe Suite
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
Owner's Suite
*Price is per person, double occupancy, is based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of cabin to which this price applies may no longer be available.
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Services provided
- Individually-controlled airconditioning
- Stateroom layout: king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating staterooms available (Children welcome)
- Minibar
- Flat screen satellite TV
- Video on demand
- Bose™ Bluetooth speaker
- Desk with stationery
- Safe
- Hermès® bath products
- Dressing table, bath robes, Hairdryer
- Direct line telephone
- 110V American (two flat pins) /220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- 24hr room service
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi
Choose your stateroom category
Packing Checklist
Expedition programmes include activities such as Zodiac® outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, 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.
Advice
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during Zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Diving - Expedition Cruise
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 2 star CMAS or the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 25 metres.
- If two PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins,
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 2 star CMAS or the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 25 metres.
- If two PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins,
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Wildlife
Fauna and flora of the Pacific ocean
The fauna of the Pacific ocean is very varied. During the various dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as napoleon fish, racoonbutterfly fish, and pelagic fauna such as manta rays, gray reef sharks, dolphin fish, as well as endemic wildlife such as different soft corals.
Stopovers
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
|
PORTS OF CALL |
DIVES (for certified divers) |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING (for beginners) |
|
Australia - Cairns |
NO |
NO |
|
Australia – Lizard Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Australia – Cap York |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Asmat, Papua |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Triton Bay West Papua |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Kitikiti Waterfall, Mommon |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Banda Neira Muluku Islands |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Barat Daya Islands Pulau Kital |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Kalabahi Alor |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Maumere Flores |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Komodo National Park |
YES |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Komodo National Park |
NO |
NO |
|
Indonesia – Benoa, Bali |
NO |
NO |
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending on weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
Prices
Rates
This activity must be pre-booked before departure with your travel advisor. Any reservation made after this deadline will only be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
Price per person
Dives:
- Exploration (1 dive): €80
- Excellence Package (3 dives): €225
- Passion Package (6 dives): €420
Highlights
- A brand-new cruise to discover the lush north-east of Australia and the heavenly islands of Indonesia, between sumptuous landscapes and meetings with the local population.
- Outings and shore visits in Zodiac® inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.
- UNESCO site: Komodo National park.
- Discover the Asmat region and its small traditional villages, inhabitants and warrior ceremonies.
- Discover the Malukus, the Spice Islands.
- Encounters with the local people discovering their customs and culture.
- Opportunities for swimming and snorkelling in sites.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Advanced Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board and of snorkelling with your expedition team.
Ports of Call & Excursions
20 February 2023 Cairns
Embarkation 20/2/2023 from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Departure 20/2/2023 at 5:00 pm
Washed by the Coral Sea, the harbour town of Cairns is located on Australia's north-east coast. The seafront esplanade is a popular place for locals and visitors to walk, swim and picnic under the shade of swaying palm trees. The hills surrounding Cairns form the gateway to the Queensland Rainforests, proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site for their fauna and flora from the Gondwana era.
21 February 2023 Lizard Island
Arrival 21/2/2023
Departure 21/2/2023
Lizard Island is the northernmost resort Island on the Great Barrier Reef and boasts 24 powdery white sand beaches. Dominated by grasslands, the rugged beauty of Lizard Island contrasts sharply with the sparkling blue waters and rich fringing coral reefs surrounding the island. Lizard Island is known as Dyiigurra to the Dingaal Aboriginal people and is regarded as a sacred place. It was used for the initiation of young males and for the harvesting of shellfish, turtles, dugongs and fish. The Dingaal believe that the Lizard group of islands had been created in the Dreamtime. After a short Zodiac® ride to the beach at Watson’s Bay, guests can join a guided walk, relax on the beach or snorkel in the warm clear waters and view the clam gardens…
22 February 2023 At sea
Arrival 22/2/2023
Departure 22/2/2023
During your day 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 day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, 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.
23 February 2023 Cape York
Arrival 23/2/2023
Departure 23/2/2023
Cape York Peninsula is a large remote peninsula located at the tip of North Eastern Australia. The region has been described as the largest unspoiled wilderness in Australia. The relatively undisturbed eucalyptus wooded savannahs, tropical rainforests and other types of habitat are now recognised for their global environmental significance. At the tip of the peninsula lies Cape York, the northernmost point on the Australian continent, that usually takes travellers 5–7 days over some of the planet’s toughest and remotest roads. The easiest way to “stand on the tip” is to take a luxury voyage, be transferred ashore by ship’s zodiac directly onto the beach and walk the last 500m!
24 February 2023 At sea
Arrival 24/2/2023
Departure 24/2/2023
During your day 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 day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, 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.
25 February 2023 Asmat, Papua
Arrival 25/2/2023
Departure 25/2/2023
Occupying half the Island of New Guinea, Western New Guinea (once known as Irian Jaya) is one of the most remote and mysterious regions of the world. Even today, there are at least 44 tribes that have never had contact with the outside world. Nestled in the South West corner of the island is the Asmat region, long fabled as the realm of head-hunters and cannibals. Where ancient traditions of ancestor worship have resisted the influence of Christian missionaries. Today’s expedition starts with a zodiac transfer to the village of Syuru where you will be met by a multitude of Asmat warrior canoes. Once ashore a traditional ceremony will take place. In the afternoon guests can undertake a guided walking tour of Agats township.
26 February 2023 At sea
Arrival 26/2/2023
Departure 26/2/2023
During your day 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 day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, 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.
27 February 2023 Triton Bay, West Papua
Arrival 27/2/2023
Departure 27/2/2023
Triton Bay is one of three regions in Indonesia’s West Papua province that comprise the Bird’s Head Seascape (the other two are Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay), which is now considered by marine biologists to be the epicentre of the Coral Triangle. It contains more fish and coral species than anywhere else on the planet. Its unparalleled marine biodiversity and endemism, habitat richness, and relatively intact nature of its ecosystems are unique. Join your expedition team for a zodiac voyage through the spectacular rainforest capped karst islands. Later in the day enjoy the opportunity to explore the richness of the underwater realm.
28 February 2023 Kitikiti Waterfall, Mommon
Arrival 28/2/2023
Departure 28/2/2023
North of Triton Bay, in the Indonesian province of West Papua, lie the Bomberai Peninsula and Sebakor Bay. A real paradise for divers, this protected, authentic and very wild area boasts an exceptional biodiversity. Here, you will be able to admire the superb Kitikiti Waterfall where you could enjoy a swim or snorkel surrounded by lush nature, both on land and under water.
1 March 2023 Banda Neira, Maluku Islands
Arrival 1/3/2023
Departure 1/3/2023
From age-old traditional cultures and ancient vestiges, to coral reefs and lush green jungle… The attractions of the remote Banda archipelago seem endless. Better known as the legendary “Spice Islands” of the Ancient World, these small volcanic landmasses were the fabled prize of colonial powers for more than four centuries. Every colonial power of significance fought for control of these ten small islands that today have become largely forgotten. Walking the streets of Banda Neira is a surreal experience as your eyes are drawn to the eclectic mix of Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture, the remnants of a rich and tumultuous history. It is without doubt the most historically significant and interesting of all the “Spice Islands”.
2 March 2023 Barat Daya Islands
Arrival 2/3/2023
Departure 2/3/2023
If you are looking for exoticism and authenticity, then you will be captivated by the Barat Daya Islands, an Indonesian archipelago lying to the east of the Lesser Sunda Islands, bathed by the Banda Sea and surrounded by coral reefs. With their fine sandy beaches, marine environments, preserved nature and paddy fields, these islands in the Maluku archipelago are a real concentration of the beauty South-East Asia has to offer. A lush environment in which fauna and flora flourish. Notably, there are almost 162 different bird species including four endemic ones, like the terrestrial dove, and three endangered ones. The Wetar Island python is also an endemic species.
3 March 2023 Kalabahi, Alor
Arrival 3/3/2023
Departure 3/3/2023
The unique culture of the Alorese continues among the Takpala indigenous group who have preserved their traditional architecture and ceremonies. The island of Alor is also known as the island of a Thousand Moko’s. The Moko is a small bronze kettledrum which is believed to have originated from the Dong Son culture of Vietnam. However, it remains a mystery as to how these prehistoric Dong Son drums arrived in Alor. Local legend says that the Moko’s were discovered buried in the ground, and indeed mokos are still being uncovered today. Join the expedition team and local guides for a tour by local transport to Takpala village, the Museum of a Thousand Mokos and the thriving main market of Kalabahi.
4 March 2023 Maumere, Flores
Arrival 4/3/2023
Departure 4/3/2023
Floresians have an ancient culture stretching back millennia before the first arrival of Europeans in search of trade opportunities. Their history is shared through oral traditions and is recreated in song and dance. The mountainous terrain of Flores has preserved the diversity of cultures and Maumere serves as the capital of the Sikka district and main trading port. Few tourists make it to Maumere with most stopping at Labuan Bajo and heading west to the islands of Komodo. Consequently, Maumere and has kept its charming atmosphere, an eclectic mix of a bustling trading town and a coastal paradise. Join your expedition team and local guides for a tour by local transport to the markets and tribal villages in the hinterland of Maumere.
5 March 2023 6 March 2023 Komodo National Park
Arrival 5/3/2023
Departure 6/3/2023
Between the islands of Sumbawa and Florès, Komodo National Park welcomes you to discover its natural wonders. At the very heart of the Indonesian archipelago, the three islands that form it – Komodo, Rinca and Padar - owe their renown to the famous eponymous dragons, enormous lizards over two metres long, which live in its grassy savannah. This jagged and hilly volcanic territory belonging to the Sunda Islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its incredible terrestrial and marine biodiversity. Admire its palette of colours, intermingling the sparkling whites of the beaches, the deep blues of the coral-filled water and the soft greens of its pastures.
7 March 2023 Benoa, Bali
Arrival 7/3/2023 mid morning
Disembarkation 7/3/2023 at 10:00 am
If it's a taste of exotic authenticity you're after, prepare to be spell-bound by the island of Bali, tucked away in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago. The beauty and diversity of its landscapes, the depth and richness of its cultural heritage and the plethora of activities on offer here make Bali a little slice of heaven on Earth. The island's southern coast enthrals with its white sand beaches, its picturesque little fishing villages such as Benoa, and its hills patchworked with terraced rice paddies further inland. Nicknamed 'the Island of Gods' for its sumptuous temples, Bali is the beating heart of Indonesian Hinduism.
Le Laperouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance and with five-star service.
The Blue Eye, a multisensorial underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Until 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Before your cruise
CAIRNS, AT THE EDGE OF AUSTRALIA' S TROPICAL RAINFOREST (1 NIGHT)
(1 nuit)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Take advantage of a full day tour to discover the natural beauties of Cairns and experience a unique cable car ride over the tropical rainforest canopy. This programme will be a pleasant prelude to your cruise.
Day 1 - Cairns
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 or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Shangri-La the Marina 5*.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Cairns
Depart for an Australian experience into the rainforest. After a 30-minute drive, you will arrive at the Skyrail Rainforest Cable Car Station. Upon arrival, you will board one of the gondolas for an amazing experience over Australia's World Heritage listed tropical rainforest canopy, and into the rainforest itself. Spanning approximately four-and-a-half miles over pristine rainforest, Skyrail allows you to explore the wonders of this ancient tropical rainforest and learn about one of the most botanically fascinating and diverse areas on earth, and includes time at two mid-stations. The easy access walkways at Barron Falls Station take you on three separate lookouts where you will be treated to breath-taking views of Barron Gorge and Barron Falls. This station is where you will find the state-of-the-art Rainforest Interpretation Centre.
At the completion of your Skyrail journey, you will proceed to the centre of Kuranda, a delightful village nestled in the heart of the rainforest. Established as a railway station in the mid-1800s, when logging and mining were large industries on the Atherton Tablelands, Kuranda became known as a place to stock up on goods and also where one could enjoy some culture and sophistication at one of the local hotels. Today, this colourful township is a haven for markets, cafés, and restaurants. After a brief overview of the town, you will have some free time to further explore on your own. No doubt you will want to take the opportunity to browse the shops for local artwork, crafts, opals or aboriginal souvenirs while you are here.
Following your visit to Kuranda, you will board your coach and will return to Cairns for lunch.
Afterwards, you will be transferred to the pier to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The five-star Shangri-La The Marina Hotel is located on the waterfront at Marlin Marina, connected to the Pier shopping complex and adjacent to the Trinity Bay Esplanade. You will also find close by, Cairns Convention Centre and Cairns Esplanade. The hotel features a restaurant and two bars, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a sauna and a solarium. It offers a free Wi-Fi access.
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 Deluxe Seaview room at the five-star Shangri-La The Marina Hotel 5*, local standards (or similar), breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverages package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Dinner on day 1.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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.
- An Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) must be obtained before your arrival in Australia. For more information, please visit www.immi.gov.au. Carriers should be aware that there will not be any physical evidence in your passport.
- The local currency is the Australian dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted.
- The official check-in time at the hotel Shangri-La The Marina is at 2pm.
Contacts of your hotel:
Shangri-La The Marina
Pierpoint Road Cairns
Queensland 4870, Australia
Telephone: +61 7 4031 1411
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$530
According to availability, price per passenger.