Multicultural Discoveries from Malaysia to Thailand

Multicultural Discoveries from Malaysia to Thailand

About This Cruise

Set off to discover the treasures of South-East Asia by exploring the Strait of Malacca, a veritable gateway between oceans and once a strategic hub of the spice and silk trade. Along the Malaysian coastlines, historic cities – including Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site – will unveil precious and multicultural heritage that blends colonial architecture, majestic mosques and Chinese temples, telling the story of centuries of exchanges and encounters. In Thailand, nature takes centre stage: Langkawi rolls out its lush hills and rolling rice fields; the immaculate beaches on the islands of Koh Rok Nok and Ko Kradan open onto turquoise water brimming with marine life; and, in Phang Nga Bay, limestone pitons rise out of the emerald water like towers sculpted by the water and the wind. A journey that combines cultural and natural treasures to offer an unforgettable immersion in the heart of these legendary lands.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    Le Soléal 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 Soléal

Departure Date

11 December 2027

Cruise Line

PONANT EXPLORATIONS

Duration

8 Nights

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

Itinerary

Singapore

Singapore

The main island of Singapore is shaped like a flattened diamond, 42 km (26 miles) east to west and 23 km (14 miles) north to south. Near the northern peak is the causeway leading to West Malaysia—Kuala Lumpur is less than four hours away by car. It is at the southern foot where you will find most of the city-state’s action, with its gleaming office towers, working docks, and futuristic "supertrees," which are solar-powered and serve as vertical gardens. Offshore are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city. To the east is Changi International Airport, connected to the city by metro, bus, and a tree-lined parkway. Of the island's total land area, more than half is built up, with the balance made up of parkland, farmland, plantations, swamp areas, and rain forest. Well-paved roads connect all parts of the island, and Singapore city has an excellent, and constantly expanding, public transportation system. The heart of Singapore's history and its modern wealth are in and around the Central Business District. The area includes the skyscrapers in the Central Business District, the 19th-century Raffles Hotel, the convention centers of Marina Square, on up to the top of Ft. Canning. Although most of old Singapore has been knocked down to make way for the modern city, most colonial landmarks have been preserved in the CBD, including early-19th-century buildings designed by the Irish architect George Coleman.

Malaysia

Malacca

No summary for this day yet.

Malaysia

Port Klang

Kuala Lumpur, or KL as locals refer to it, intrigues visitors with its diversity and multicultural character. The city's old quarter features stretches of shop houses that hint at its colonial past, while modern buildings—including the iconic Petronas Towers—give a glimpse of its modern financial ambitions. The city is filled with culturally colorful quarters dedicated to Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities. New shopping malls with designer labels, five-star hotels, and top-notch restaurants also proliferate in this bustling city of 1.6 million.

Malaysia

Georgetown, Penang

An island off the northwest coast of peninsular Malaysia, Penang is blessed with a multicultural history that's led to a fascinating fusion of East and West. Claimed by the British East India Company in 1786, the island's city center of Georgetown—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is filled with colonial architecture, temples, and museums. The island has also attracted many Chinese immigrants, who now make up the majority of the population. On Penang you'll find an exciting mix of jungle, coast, farmland, and fishing villages, along with the country's largest Buddhist temple.

Malaysia

Langkawi Island

On Malaysia's west coast, Langkawi is an archipelago made up of 99 islands. The only real settlement is on the main island, Pulau Langkawi. This popular beach destination attracts divers from around the world to explore the sea life, and after being declared a duty-free zone back in the '80s, it has become a favorite shopping spot for visitors seeking cheap booze. You'll find sightseeing attractions—such as national parks, a cable car ride, and a large aquarium—throughout this island of lush rainforests. However, it's the long stretches of sandy beach that attract most visitors to this tropical paradise.

Thailand

Ko Rok Nok

No summary for this day yet.

Thailand

Ko Kradan

No summary for this day yet.

Thailand

Phang Nga

No summary for this day yet.

Thailand

Phuket

Though few tourists linger here, Phuket Town, the provincial capital, is one of the more culturally interesting places on the island to spend half a day. About one-third of the island's population lives here, and the town is an intriguing mix of old Sino-Portuguese architecture and the influences of the Chinese, Muslims, and Thais that inhabit it. The old Chinese quarter along Talang Street is especially good for a stroll, as its history has not yet been replaced by modern concrete and tile. And this same area has a variety of antiques shops, art studios, and trendy cafés. Besides Talang, the major thoroughfares are Ratsada, Phuket, and Ranong roads. Ratsada connects Phuket Road (where you'll find the Tourism Authority of Thailand office) to Ranong Road, where there's an aromatic local market filled with fruits, vegetables, spices, and meats.

Overview

Set off to discover the treasures of South-East Asia by exploring the Strait of Malacca, a veritable gateway between oceans and once a strategic hub of the spice and silk trade. Along the Malaysian coastlines, historic cities – including Malacca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site – will unveil precious and multicultural heritage that blends colonial architecture, majestic mosques and Chinese temples, telling the story of centuries of exchanges and encounters. In Thailand, nature takes centre stage: Langkawi rolls out its lush hills and rolling rice fields; the immaculate beaches on the islands of Koh Rok Nok and Ko Kradan open onto turquoise water brimming with marine life; and, in Phang Nga Bay, limestone pitons rise out of the emerald water like towers sculpted by the water and the wind. A journey that combines cultural and natural treasures to offer an unforgettable immersion in the heart of these legendary lands.

Suite

Owner's Suite

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

  • A private 96 ft² balcony
  • Two sliding panoramic windows
  • A bathroom with shower and spa bath
  • Butler service
  • A one-hour treatment per person (for 2 people) in the wellness area, including body and facial treatments
  • Private return transfer
  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival
  • A fruit basket every day
  • One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • A living-dining room with a sofa, armchair, TV, a table for four, and a courtesy sliding door

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Suite

Prestige Suite

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

  • Priority boarding, depending on port of embarkation(Suite Prestige deck 6)
  • Butler service (Prestige Suite deck 6)
  • Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival and a fruit basket every day (Prestige Suite deck 6)
  • A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
  • A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchairs, second TV, and sliding courtesy door
  • Two bathrooms with showers
  • A private 8 m² balcony
  • Two panoramic sliding bay windows

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Suite

Deluxe Suite

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

  • A private 53 ft² balcony
  • Sliding panoramic window
  • Bathroom with bathtub
  • Butler service
  • Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
  • Champagne and fruit on arrival
  • A fruit basket every day
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • An armchair and sofa

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Outside

Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom

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

  • A private 43 ft² balcony
  • A sliding panoramic window
  • Bathroom with shower
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) and TV

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Outside

Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom

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

  • A private 43 ft² balcony
  • A porthole and glass door
  • One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
  • Bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

Outside

Window or Porthole Stateroom

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

  • One king-size bed or two single beds (180 x 200 cm) and TV
  • A bathroom with shower
  • A window (except for stateroom 300: a round porthole only)

Included in all staterooms

  • Minibar
  • Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
  • Bose Bluetooth speaker
  • Individually-controlled air conditioning
  • Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
  • Dressing room with shelves and closet
  • Dressing table and hairdryer
  • Direct line telephone
  • Three ADA staterooms
  • 24-hour room service
  • Electronic safe
  • Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
  • Inclusive Wifi internet

french

L'Éclipse

At the back of deck 2, our gourmet restaurant, complete with wine cellar, offers French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

buffet

Le Pythéas

In a relaxed atmosphere, our grill restaurant located on deck 6 welcomes you for breakfast, buffet lunches and themed dinners.

room

Room Service

Whether you want to fully enjoy your cabin for breakfast, savor a peaceful snack in the middle of the day, or have your meal in complete privacy, room service is at your disposal. Treat yourself to a moment of indulgence and enjoy a diverse menu available at any time of day and night.

Lounge

Main Lounge

Tea room, bar, live music, dance floor, terrace: the main lounge is an essential meeting place throughout your journey.

Lounge

The Observatory Lounge

Library, internet space, bar, occasional live entertainment, terrace: enjoy a 180° panorama of the horizon from the observatory lounge.

Theatre

Theatre

Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as enjoy a variety of shows, concerts and performances by professional dancers and musicians.

Music and dance

Opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts or ballets at sea or on land: musical cruises and dance cruises offer privileged experiences, in small groups, alongside prestigious partners, such as Radio Classique or the Paris National Opera and talented artists of international renown.

Art and literature

Share high-quality moments and attend conferences by curators from national and international museums, women and men from the world of culture, renowned writers, actors and philosophers. They discuss their passion during conferences or private visits. Experience the opportunity to open up to new perspectives.

Sun Deck, Pool Deck

Swimming pool

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun.

Bar

The Outdoor Bar

Enjoy a drink in the 50-capacity outdoor lounge area, with a view of the sea and the pool bridge.

Shop

Boutique

An extension of the journey and the ship, la Boutique offers an exclusive shopping experience with a wide range of technical and casual ready-to-wear and equipment, with or without PONANT personalization. It also features unique souvenirs to extend the journey back home, as well as jewelry, accessories and luxury items. Opening hours follow the voyage schedule, including days at sea, and all purchases on board are tax-free.

Reception

Excursion Reception and Office

If you have not made a pre-booking before your cruise, you can book your excursions on board during one of the daily opening times of the excursion desk (timetables available in your daily program). It is only possible to pre-book one excursion per port day. If you would like to book a second excursion on the same day, please contact the excursion desk to check availability.

Studio, Photographers

PONANT Studio

A photography and videography team escort you throughout your trip. These professionals capture the most beautiful moments of your cruise, which you can share with family and friends upon your return. Meet them on DECK 5 (DECK 6 on the PONANT Explorers ships) at the photo/video area, where you can also order souvenir pictures and videos.

Spa

Spa

Onboard our ships, in the heart of an intimate and privileged environment with the ocean as your backdrop, discover a new way to enjoy the Spa experience.

In association with SOTHYS™ Paris, we are offering you a selection of expert face and body treatments. The “savoir-faire” and expertise of our hair professional partner DAVINES® will be able to satisfy all your expectations.

Gym

The Fitness Room

The fitness room offers a wide range of exercises suitable for all levels to train facing magnificent views. 

Salon

The Hairdressing Salon

Each product has been crafted using the most advanced cosmetic technologies and natural ingredients. Developed and packaged while minimising the environmental impact, Davines® products are inspired by the Sustainable Beauty ideal, an inseparable unit between Beauty and Being. During your cruise, treat your hair to a unique beauty experience. Our expert stylist will do an in-depth analysis of your hair and recommend the most appropriate treatment.