Ocean cruises

Experience dynamic Budapest and imperial Vienna. Marvel at ravishing scenery as your luxurious ship glides through the Wachau Valley, celebrated as one of the world's most beautiful landscapes, into Germany and past charming Bavarian villages. Exclusive treasures are plentiful on this delightful journey.

This enchanting voyage provides a variety of ways to enjoy captivating destinations as well as plenty of time to relax onboard as you sail from Budapest to Regensburg.

Jewish Heritage Program (select sailings; Budapest to Regensburg direction only): Our Jewish Heritage Program is the only one of its kind on the rivers and allows you to dive into Central Europe's enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues and more. Due to capacity restrictions, we recommend Jewish Heritage excursions be reserved in advance. Please note: due to site closures during Passover, the Jewish Heritage program will not operate on the following departure: Budapest to Regensburg: April 5. Tours that fall on Saturdays will not operate due to Shabbat, and some sites may be closed during other significant events, such as Passover.

The shimmering waters of the fabled Danube River flow for thousands of miles through the very heart of Europe, silent witness to centuries of artistic achievement and historical events. This perfectly composed journey provides an immersive cultural tasting menu of four equally beguiling countries—ideal for first-time river cruisers as well as seasoned travelers seeking to experience yet another dimension of these much-loved destinations.

Our locally-based destination experts will take you well beyond the "must-sees" of each region, offering fresh takes on classic sites, insider knowledge of delightful under-the-radar locales, and VIP access to places only a privileged few will ever experience—such as a private early-morning viewing of the acclaimed art collection of the Kunstkammer Vienna.

Generations Family Program (select sailings): Share the enchantment of this region with the special young people in your life. These cruises not only feature unique, fun-filled adventures for families to enjoy together, they're also packed with culturally and historically significant experiences designed to spark creativity and lifelong learning.

Cruise from Paris through Normandy's countryside, uncovering its many charms: Château de La Roche-Guyon, the medieval capital of Rouen, Monet's beloved home in Giverny and the famed Normandy beaches.

Experience a different side of Northern France's history with a tour of the majestic palace of Versailles, once home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.

See the best of Paris in one of three ways: via panoramic tour, a bicycle ride along the Seine, or a walk through the Latin Quarter with a local guide. There are plenty of opportunities to take part in more active experiences, such as golfing atop the cliffs of Étretat, perched on the cliff high above the sea, making playing golf here a memorable experience and visual feast.

Sail along Norway’s mythical fjords following in the footsteps of courageous Vikings during an exceptional journey between Bergen and Fredrikstad. During this 9-day cruise aboard Le Champlain, the mystical decors edged with charming villages are sure to surprise you

At each port of call on your trip, every guest will be able to choose one included activity from the selection offered by Ponant. During this cruise, admire the incredible panorama composed of waterfalls and craggy peaks from aboard the Flåm train, one of the steepest and most famous railways in the world, set off to explore the surroundings of Geiranger, including Mount Dalsnibba. The diversity of options on offer promises intense and varied experiences. (Find the full list of excursions under the Itinerary tab.)

Departing from Bergen, famous for its Hanseatic wharf which still bears some traces of the city's rich Viking past, your first stop will be Flam. Nestled in the heart of the Aurlandsfjord between verdant mountains, this picturesque village with colourful houses is home to the famous Flam Railway.  

After cruising along Norway’s longest and deepest fjord, Sognefjord, you will sail one of the most mythical fjords in the Land of the Midnight Sun, Geirangerfjord. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is as inspiring as it is fascinating.

In Maloy, a lovely little town backing onto the Norwegian Sea, you will have the privilege of discovering enchanting decors of granite summits covered in a verdant coat, superb silvery sandy beaches, traditional red wooden houses…

Next, you will sail to Eidfjord. In the ancient glacial valley of the Hardanger Fjord, the steep mountains and roaring waterfalls, including the Voring Falls, among the highest in Europe, are an awesome display of nature.

In Stavanger, a small town with harmonious blend of old and modern styles, you will admire the wonderfully preserved fishermen's houses that date from the 18th century, before sailing to the famous Lysefjorden, bordered by granite cliffs.                

You will then head towards the Sorlandet region, to enjoy the timeless charm and gentle climate of Kristiansand. Here, you will be able to stroll around the picturesque little streets, edged with typical wooden houses, and discover the town’s lively port.

Finally, you will reach Fredrikstad, the best-preserved fortified town in northern Europe and the end of an unforgettable trip.

Set sail for the wild and grandiose landscapes of Kimberley, following an exceptional PONANT itinerary.  

From Darwin to Broome, embark for an 11-day expedition cruise to one of the last unspoiled regions on the planet.

The highpoint of this cruise will undoubtedly be the discovery of the King George River and the majestic Twin Falls, the highest falls in Western Australia.

During your cruise, the magnificent bays of Vansittart and Swift will offer you exceptional panoramas, between islands, secret inlets, caves and rocky overhangs.

In one of the most picturesque parts of the region, the Hunter River, you will see wild mangrove forests where saltwater crocodiles live along with many species of birds.

You will also visit Collier Bay, where you will be able to admire the Montgomery Reef, home to vast expanses of lagoons and immense coral reefs.

On the Lacepede Islands, take the time to admire the abundance of nesting birds as well as the large population of turtles residing in the lagoon.

Your ship will take you along the most spectacular coasts in the entire region.

With their falls, abrupt gorges, savannah, calm waters and desolate mountain chains, the wild lands of Kimberley are the promise of an exceptional adventure.

We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and tide conditions. Landings on certain sites and the observation of certain wildlife cannot be guaranteed. They vary from day to day, making each PONANT cruise a unique experience. The Captain and the Expedition Leader will make every effort to ensure that your experience is as rich as possible, whilst complying with the necessary safety rules and precautions.