History and culture visiting Caribbean jewels

History and culture visiting Caribbean jewels

About This Cruise

Explore the Caribbean on a yacht and enjoy a feast for all the senses. Aboard the emblematic three-mast yacht Le Ponant, you will explore the islands under sail, these precious pearls stretching between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic, veritable sanctuaries of beauty brimming with history. Infinite beaches of white and pink sand, tropical vegetation and fauna, historic forts and naval buildings… In the heart of these island jewels, sailing through the warm and crystal-clear waters is synonymous with pleasure, even when the sea spray reaches the deck, while each port of call is an invitation to dive into the Caribbean tradition and soul.

Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior designed by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a highly distinctive character. As if you were on your very own yacht, savour the freedom of living in the moment, during this cruise to the heart of the mythical Windward Islands.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    Le Ponant is an adults-only ship

  • Couples

    An adults-only atmosphere made for two

  • Over 50s

    Refined, unhurried cruising with enrichment on board

Type

Ocean, Luxury

Ship

Le Ponant

Departure Date

26 December 2026

Cruise Line

PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at (01) 554 1010

Itinerary

Saint Martin (French part)

Marigot

French and Dutch have lived side by side on St. Maarten/St. Martin for hundreds of years—with no border patrols or customs between them. The French side has a more genteel ambience, more fashionable shopping, and a Continental flair. The Dutch tends to be less expensive, has casino hotels, and more nightlife. Water sports abound all over—diving, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing are all top draws. And it's easy to while away the day relaxing on one of the 37 beaches, strolling the boardwalk of Dutch-side Philipsburg, and exploring the very French town of Marigot. Although luck is an important commodity at St. Maarten's 13 casinos, chance plays no part in finding a good meal at the island’s excellent eateries. The best way to explore St. Maarten/St. Martin is by car. Though often congested, especially around Philipsburg and Marigot, the roads are fairly good, though narrow and winding, with some speed bumps, potholes, roundabouts, and an occasional wandering goat herd. Few roads are marked with their names, but destination signs are common. Besides, the island is so small that it's hard to get really lost—at least that is what locals tell you. If you’re spending a few days, get to know the area with a scenic "loop" around the island. Be sure to pack a towel and some water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Head up the east shoreline from Philipsburg, and follow the signs to Dawn Beach and Oyster Pond. The road winds past soaring hills, turquoise waters, quaint West Indian houses, and wonderful views of St. Barth. As you cross over to the French side, turn into Le Galion for a stop at the calm sheltered beach, the stables, the butterflies, or the windsurfing school, then keep following the road toward Orient Bay, the St-Tropez of the Caribbean. Continue to Anse Marcel, Grand Case, Marigot, and Sandy Ground. From Marigot, the flat island of Anguilla is visible. Completing the loop brings you past Cupecoy Beach, through Maho and Simpson Bay, where Saba looms in the horizon, and back over the mountain road into Philipsburg.

Antigua and Barbuda

Prickly Pear Island

No summary for this day yet.

Saint Barthélemy

Gustavia

You can easily explore all of Gustavia during a two-hour stroll. Some shops close from noon to 3 or 4, so plan lunch accordingly, but stores stay open past 7 in the evening. Parking in Gustavia is a challenge, especially during vacation times. A good spot to park is rue de la République, alongside the catamarans, yachts, and sailboats.

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Charlestown

No summary for this day yet.

Antigua and Barbuda

Falmouth

Between Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, Falmouth is located on Jamaica’s north coast. Take a walk through Jamaica’s history and local cuisine, dare to take a ride down the river on a tubing tour, visit the local sites and learn about Bob Marley’s history, and see where he was influenced to make his music on a tour of his local village.

Antigua and Barbuda

Barbuda

No summary for this day yet.

Guadeloupe

Îles des Saintes

This small group of islands lies opposite the western part of Guadeloupe. They were discovered in November 1493 by Columbus, who named them Los Santos. French settlers established themselves in 1648 and changed the name to Iles des Saintes, commonly known as Les Saintes. Since then the islands have been closely connected with Guadeloupe. Until a recent influx of tourism, Les Saintes were among the Caribbean’s most unspoiled destinations. Only two of the eight islands are inhabited: Terre-de-Bas and Terre-de-Haut. The latter is known for its impressive Fort Napoleon built in the early 19th century to replace an earlier 17th-century fort. From its vantage point there are fine views of the many tiny islets scattered in the bay and across to Guadeloupe. Terre-de-Haut is the main island of Les Saintes, with steeply scarped hills, scenic valleys, hidden coves and beautiful beaches. Its main settlement consists of a charming village of red-roofed houses situated along a curving bay. A number of small boutiques and gift shops invite browsing. Quaint cafés and restaurants offer food and drink. To the east of the village lies Grande Anse, a fine sand beach. Most of the attractions on this small island can be seen on foot. With just a few vehicles on the island, there are no organized tours possible. Time ashore here is at your leisure.

Guadeloupe

Pointe-à-Pitre

This warm city is located in Guadeloupe and offers a choice of activities and places to visit for all the family. From markets to educational theme parks, children and adults alike will find something to entertain them.

Overview

Explore the Caribbean on a yacht and enjoy a feast for all the senses. Aboard the emblematic three-mast yacht Le Ponant, you will explore the islands under sail, these precious pearls stretching between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic, veritable sanctuaries of beauty brimming with history. Infinite beaches of white and pink sand, tropical vegetation and fauna, historic forts and naval buildings… In the heart of these island jewels, sailing through the warm and crystal-clear waters is synonymous with pleasure, even when the sea spray reaches the deck, while each port of call is an invitation to dive into the Caribbean tradition and soul.

Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior designed by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a highly distinctive character. As if you were on your very own yacht, savour the freedom of living in the moment, during this cruise to the heart of the mythical Windward Islands.

Suite

Owner's Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 96 ft² balcony with 2 armchairs
  • Room service is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • A bathroom with double shower
  • A one-hour treatment per person (for 2 people) in the wellness area, including body and facial treatments
  • A private return transfer
  • Three portholes and glass door
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival
  • A daily selection of sweet and savoury canapés and a fruit basket
  • One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A living room with a convertible sofa and armchair
  • Dining area for 4 people 

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
  • Direct line telephone
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand

Suite

Grand Privilege Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 139 ft² balcony with four armchairs
  • Double dressing rooms
  • Two panoramic portholes and two hinged windows
  • Two bathrooms with shower
  • Two one-hour treatments per person (for 2 people) in the wellness area, including body and facial treatments
  • A daily selection of sweet and savoury canapés and a fruit basket
  • Two king-size beds (180 x 190 cm) or four single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A lounge area with convertible sofa, two armchairs, and TV
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
  • Direct line telephone
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand

Suite

Privilege suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A private 96 ft² balcony with four armchairs
  • Panoramic window and panoramic hinged window
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival
  • A daily selection of sweet and savoury canapés and a fruit basket
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A lounge area with convertible sofa and two armchairs
  • A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
  • Direct line telephone
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand


Suite

Prestige Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • Two portholes
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A bathroom with shower
  • A lounge area with convertible sofa and an armchair

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
  • Direct line telephone
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand

Suite

Junior Suite

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • Two portholes
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A bathroom with shower
  • A lounge area with convertible sofa and an armchair

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
  • Direct line telephone
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand

Balcony

Upper decks balcony stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • A 16 m² stateroom (Alizés Prestige Stateroom with balcony) or 19 m² stateroom (Alizés Stateroom with balcony)
  • A private 43 ft² balcony (Alizés Stateroom with balcony) or 86 ft² balcony (Alizés Prestige Stateroom with balcony)
  • A panoramic hinged glass door
  • A bathroom with shower
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
  • Direct line telephone
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand

Outside

Window or Porthole Stateroom

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:

  • One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A bathroom with shower
  • One round porthole

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • 110V American / 220V European
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
  • Direct line telephone
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand

buffet

Le Diamant

On board the Ponant, the restaurant Le Diamant celebrates the terroir of each visited coast, offering a culinary experience in perfect harmony with the itinerary of the journey. Driven by the chef's demanding standards and passion, each dish reveals the richness of local products, carefully selected from the markets along the way. This responsible and sustainable approach invites you to savor the very essence of each stop. In this exceptional setting, gastronomy extends the emotion of the journey.

Lounge, Bar

Emeraude Lounge and Bar

library, tearoom, bar, and live entertainment on certain evenings. Access to the outdoor terrace

Sun Deck, Bar

Sun Deck

  • Sun beds
  • Exterior bar 

Spa, Yoga, Gym, Wellness

The Wellness Space

Le Ponant has been designed as a cocoon dedicated to well-being and relaxation. 

  • Spa: massage cabin and Biologique Recherche care products. 
  • Fitness centre with dedicated fitness coach
  • Yoga sessions