Panama, Colombia & Caribbean Islands

12 Mar 2027
10 Nights
Le Lapérouse
South America
View Itinerary

ITINERARY

The provincial capital of Colón, beside the canal's Atlantic entrance, is named for the Spanish-language surname of Christopher Columbus, though the Americans called it Aspinwall in the 19th century.. The city was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad and named Aspinwall for one of the railway engineers. Following completion in 1855, Colon gained in importance, which was furthered by the plans for an isthmian canal. During the time of the French canal attempt, a fire in 1885 burned the city nearly to the ground and left thousands of people homeless. Colon was rebuilt in the architectural style then popular in France. Buildings from that era plus the ones constructed by Americans between 1904 and 1914 are still in use today, although the majority is on the verge of collapse. In addition to its importance as a port, Colon boasts the world’s second largest duty-free zone, known as Zona Libre, which is contained in a huge fortress like, walled-off area with giant international stores. However, most of the merchandise is sold in bulk to commercial businesses throughout the country.

The San Blas archipelago is located off the Caribbean coast, east of Colon, and is made up of 365 islands that range in size from tiny ones with a few coconut palms to islands on which hundreds of Kuna Indians live. Only about fifty are inhabited. The Kuna rule the San Blas Territory with internal autonomy, and have tightly preserved their language and cultural traditions over the centuries despite influences from European colonies. In addition to their own language, Spanish is widely spoken and many men work on the mainland, but live on the islands. Women wear costumes with unique designs based on local themes, geometric patterns, and stylised fauna and flora. The island of El Porvenir is one of the main seats of government for the Kuna Indians. Many Kunas from the other islands came to settle on El Porvenir, bringing with them their traditional arts and crafts, including the famous molas. These intricately hand-sewn designs are made by the women of the tribes as part of their blouses and dresses. With the increased tourism, molas are now a favoured souvenir and craft item for visitors.

Cartagena's magnificent city walls and fortresses, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enclose a well-restored historic center (the Cuidad Amurallada, or walled city) with plazas, churches, museums, and shops that have made it a lively coastal vacation spot for South Americans and others. New hotels and restaurants make the walled city a desirable place to stay, and the formerly down-at-the-heels Getsemaní neighborhood attracts those seeking a bohemian buzz. The historic center is a small section of Cartagena; many hotels are in the Bocagrande district, an elongated peninsula where high-rise hotels overlook a long, gray-sand beach.When it was founded in 1533 by Spanish conquistador Pedro de Heredia, Cartagena was the only port on the South American mainland. Gold and silver looted from indigenous peoples passed through here en route to Spain and attracted pirates, including Sir Francis Drake, who in 1586 torched 200 buildings. Cartagena's walls protected the city's riches as well as the New World's most important African slave market.

Explore Ship

The Tobago Cays are an archipelago located in the Southern Grenadines of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines comprising five small islands and extensive coral reefs. The cays – Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tabac and Jamesby – are a popular tourism destination.

Pigeon Island is a 44-acre islet located in Gros Islet in the northern region of Saint Lucia. Once isolated from the country in the Caribbean Sea, the island was artificially joined to the western coast of mainland in 1972 by a man-made causeway built from dirt excavated to form the Rodney Bay Marina.

The oldest town in St. Lucia and the island’s former French colonial capital, Soufrière was founded by the French in 1746 and named for its proximity to the volcano of the same name. The wharf is the center of activity in this sleepy town (population, 9,000), particularly when a cruise ship anchors in pretty Soufrière Bay. French colonial influences are evident in the second-story verandahs, gingerbread trim, and other appointments of the wooden buildings that surround the market square. The market building itself is decorated with colorful murals. Soufrière, the site of much of St. Lucia’s renowned natural beauty, is the destination of most sightseeing trips. This is where you can get up close to the iconic Pitons and visit colonial capital of St. Lucia, with its "drive-in" volcano, botanical gardens, working plantations, waterfalls, and countless other examples of the natural beauty for which St. Lucia is deservedly famous.

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.

The largest of the Windward Islands, Martinique is 4,261 mi (6,817 km) from Paris, but its spirit and language are decidedly French, with more than a soupçon of West Indian spice. Tangible, edible evidence of the fact is the island's cuisine, a superb blend of French and creole. Martinique is lushly landscaped with tropical flowers. Trees bend under the weight of fruits such as mangoes, papayas, lemons, limes, and bright-red West Indian cherries. Acres of banana plantations, pineapple fields, and waving sugarcane stretch to the horizon. The towering mountains and verdant rain forest in the north lure hikers, while underwater sights and sunken treasures attract snorkelers and scuba divers. Martinique is also wonderful if your idea of exercise is turning over every 10 minutes to get an even tan and your taste in adventure runs to duty-free shopping. A popular cruise-ship excursion goes to St-Pierre, which was buried by ash when Mont Pelée erupted in 1902.

Day 1

Colón

12 Mar 2027

Colón

San Blas Islands

13 Mar 2027

San Blas Islands

Cartagena

14 Mar 2027

Cartagena

Santa Marta

15 Mar 2027

Santa Marta

Day 5

At Sea

16 Mar 2027

At Sea

Day 6

Bonaire

17 Mar 2027

Bonaire

Day 7

At Sea

18 Mar 2027

At Sea

Day 8

Tobago Cays

19 Mar 2027

Tobago Cays

Pigeon Island

20 Mar 2027

Pigeon Island

Soufrière

20 Mar 2027

Soufrière

Îles des Saintes

21 Mar 2027

Îles des Saintes

Fort-de-France

22 Mar 2027

Fort-de-France

This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

Explore Le Lapérouse

Le Nautilus

At the back of deck 4, you will find a gourmet restaurant complete with wine cellar, offering French and international cuisine. It can accommodate all guests in a single service for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy a menu crafted by the Ducasse Conseil teams at the gourmet restaurant. At Nautilus as well as Céleste, the freedom of a generous buffet blends with the elegance of table service: your chef offers you a selection of expertly prepared hot dishes, accompanied by carefully chosen fine wines by your sommelier.

Grill Restaurant- Le Nemo

In a relaxed atmosphere, the grill restaurant located on deck 3 welcomes you for breakfast and buffet lunches as well as themed dinners.

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.

Excursions

There are many ways to see the world. But to truly discover it? Unexplored shores, authentic encounters, iconic wildlife... Our experts imagine the most beautiful travel stories for you.

Unforgettable moments

Holding your breath to better perceive that of a distant whale, stepping foot on Antarctica for the first time, watching through binoculars the passage of a polar bear in the Arctic, marvelling at the splendour of the Mediterranean architectural heritage... Moments of pure emotion as time seems to suspended.

Unique exchanges

Share the art of living, wisdom and hospitality of communities with strong ancestral traditions. Exchanges about their philosophy in connection with the environment are an endless source of teachings.

Explore further

Navigating close to the almost inaccessible coasts of Greenland, exploring the confidential shores of Oceania, reaching the most remote seas of Antarctica, taking new paths in the Mediterranean or Northern Europe: our experts are constantly seeking new travel experiences to offer you.

Experts by your side

Captains, expedition leaders, experienced naturalist guides, lecturers, wildlife photographers, personalities from the world of art, science, culture and gastronomy... Experts share their passions with you on board or on land.

Captains

Your captain is responsible for ensuring the smooth running of your journey on board. An expert in navigating polar or tropical waters, their announcements punctuate your day. And when wildlife appears on the horizon, do not hesitate to accept their invitation to join the outer decks for magnificent observations. Gala dinners are also unmissable opportunities to meet your captain and share with them your passion for travel.

Expedition leaders

Alongside the captain, the expedition leader conducts your exploration. They supervise the team of naturalist guides, ensure the safety of the proposed experiences, and adjust the highlights of your journey according to the navigation conditions, to reveal all the riches of these fascinating ecosystems.

Photo ambassadors

During some trips, having renowned photographers on board offers you the unique opportunity to participate in workshops, and conferences, and receive personalised advice to enhance your images.

Activity guides

Scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, polar hiking on foot or snowshoes, cross-country skiing, dog sledding... Whether it's for an introduction or to deepen your practice, experience immersive activities led by certified guides, ambassadors of local cultures and communities.

Guests and partners

Dancers, musicians, writers, journalists, researchers, adventurers... Experts and prestigious partners share their passion, whether it is artistic or scientific.

Speakers

Art historians, journalists, ethnologists, naturalists... Every journey is a unique opportunity to learn more about the regions visited.

The Hydraulic Platform

Deck 2
Much easier onboard access than on any other cruise ship
Easier disembarking and embarking by Zodiac when participating in expeditions
Swimming and bathing in the sea and various nautical sports, such as kayaking and paddle-boarding

The Observatory Lounge

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

Swimming Pool

With its water blending into the surrounding landscapes, the pool is perfect for relaxing in the sun. From the marina platform, embark on your sea excursions or water activities in complete tranquility.

The Main Lounge Room

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

The Theatre

Comfortably seated, you can attend conferences given by the guests and teams of naturalists, as well as the various shows, concerts, and performances organised 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.

The Blue Eye

Located below the waterline of the ship, the Blue Eye is an innovative underwater lounge. Its design, inspired by the beauty of cetaceans, pays tribute to oceanographic environments.

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.

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.

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.

Open Bar

From the moment of boarding, unlimited drinks are included at any time of the day. A drink with friends at the bar, a refreshment upon returning from an excursion, or quietly on the balcony of your cabin: enjoy a wide selection of beverages (mineral water, soft drinks, cruise wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea).

The offer does not include premium alcoholic beverages listed on the bar menu.

The 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.

The Gym

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

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.

The Kids Explorers Club

During your cruise, PONANT EXPLORATIONS offers a program of activities dedicated to children, from 4 to 13 years old on our entire fleet.

A team of experienced facilitators on board offers daily manual activities, educational workshops, board games, introductory meditation sessions, and much more, as well as content specific to each itinerary and the number of participants.

Kid Explorers have the opportunity to extend this experience on land with the possibility of enjoying a tailor-made excursion, swimming outings, walks and scavenger hunts.

This program of activities will be offered to children every day. (The exact times will be communicated to you by the activity leaders.)

To best meet your needs, the schedule is adapted to your cruise itinerary. For more information, please contact the entertainment team beforehand.

The program of entertainment and activities is communicated daily in the logbook.

A welcome kit with gifts is offered to each child on board.

Le Lapérouse Cabins & Suites

Upper Decks Balcony Stateroom

Details

In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms:
A private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
Depending on the stateroom, either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A chaise lounge
A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Lower Decks Balcony Stateroom

Details

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

A private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
Depending on the stateroom, either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
A chaise lounge
A bathroom with shower

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Owner's Suite

Details

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

A private 430 ft² terrace with hot tub and lounge area with 2 deck chairs, sofa, and armchair
Two sliding panoramic windows
A bathroom with shower, spa bathtub, and smart mirror
Butler service
A one-hour treatment per person (for 2 people) in the wellness area, including body and facial treatments
A private return transfer
Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit on arrival
A fruit basket every day
A living room with a convertible sofa into a double bed, armchair, and TV
One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
Included premium pass: access to a selection of premium spirits at the bar

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Prestige Suite

Details

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

A private 86 ft² balcony with four armchairs
Two sliding panoramic windows
Champagne and fruit on arrival (Suite Prestige deck 6)
Priority boarding (Suite Prestige deck 6)
Butler service (Suite Prestige deck 6)
A fruit basket every day (Suite Prestige deck 6)
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 into a king-size or two single beds, armchair, TV, and a courtesy sliding door
Two bathrooms with showers

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Privilege Suite

Details

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

Priority boarding (depending on port of embarkation)
Champagne and fruit basket upon arrival
Butler service
A fruit basket every day
One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm)
A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair
A bathroom with shower
A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs
A panoramic sliding bay window

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Deluxe Suite

Details

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

On Decks 3, 4, and 6, a private 6m² balcony with two armchairs; on Deck 5, a private 43 ft² balcony with two armchairs
On Deck 3, a panoramic glass door and porthole; on Decks 4, 5, and 6, a sliding panoramic window
One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm)
An armchair and sofa
A bathroom with shower
Champagne and fruit on arrival for suites on Decks 5 and 6

Included in all staterooms

Minibar
Bose Bluetooth speaker
Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
110V American / 220V European
Direct line telephone
Flat screen TV, international channels and videos on demand
Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
Individually-controlled air conditioning
Dressing room with shelves and closet
Dressing table and hairdryer
2 ADA stateroom
Electronic safe
Inclusive Wifi internet

Grand Suite

Details

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

A private 344 ft² terrace with two deck chairs and a dining table for four people
Two sliding panoramic windows
A bathroom with shower and spa bathtub
Butler service
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 room with a convertible sofa into a double or single bed, armchair, and TV

Included in all staterooms