Ocean cruises

Fall under the spell of Melanesia, a vast South Pacific island world where nature and ancestral cultures find powerful expression. In Papua New Guinea, the deep forest and jagged landscapes are home to various communities, the heirs to age-old traditions. Further east, the Solomon Islands unveil their luxuriant scenery around Honiara, with verdant hills and shores brimming with history. Vanuatu extends this immersion with its volcanic islands and deep bays. On the island of Espiritu Santo, Luganville offers an authentic island atmosphere, a gateway to preserved landscapes, before Champagne Beach reveals itself between expanses of white sand and turquoise water. Not far away, the enchanting Mystery Island, with its captivating lagoons and immaculate beaches, promises a tropical haven where nature and serenity come together.

Sailing from Saint-Tropez to Corsica may feel like you never left the French Riviera, thanks to the island’s glamorous beaches and fresh markets brimming with local produce, cheeses and charcuterie. With three days here, you’ll also find striking landscapes to explore, from the dramatic red cliffs on the Gulf of Porto to the inland Spelunca Gorges. Sardinia and Portofino add a taste of Italy to this journey. 

 

View Sample Shore Experiences in the Mediterranean.

Watch the time stretch out in the shade of old stones steeped in the myths of yesteryear, and relax along the turquoise waters, lulled by the lapping of the waves and the heady perfumes of sun-drenched nature: from Nice to Venice, PONANT invites you on an unforgettable journey, to encounter the treasures of the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic coasts. For 13 days, aboard Le Boréal, between idyllic landscapes and suspended fortresses, golden beaches and insular villages, discover this solar and discreet way of life, which lends prestige to the Mediterranean.

Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, discover the Greco-Roman theatre of Taormina and its spectacular views over Mount Etna; stroll the small streets of Lecce, the baroque pearl of the Puglia region from Gallipoli; or savour traditional Croatian cuisine in a family farm in Dubrovnik. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).

From Nice, you will sail towards Calvi, in the heart of the Balagne region. Between steep peaks and sublime beaches with turquoise waters, you will experience a wild and authentic Corsica.

Le Boréal will then head towards Bonifacio, a gem in the far south of Corsica. A veritable fortress sculpted by the wind and sea spray, the “sentinel city” will reveal its historical centre and its long-cobbled streets.

A little further south, you will discover the Aeolian islands, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lipari is the capital of the Aeolian volcanic archipelago and is renowned for its many natural and architectural gems.

You will set sail again, this time to discover Sicily. In Taormina, at the foot of Etna’s everlasting snow, fall under the spell of the picturesque city centre with cobbled streets leading to the city’s impressive ancient theatre boasting exceptional acoustics.

In Puglia, Gallipoli, meaning “beautiful town” in Greek, reveals its Hellenic origins and offers up its singular atmosphere, where life is good.

You will then head to the aptly named “Pearl of the Adriatic”, Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Surrounded by medieval ramparts, its terracotta-tiled roofs, its palaces, cloisters and fountains are bound to impress you and will plunge you into the heart of Croatian history.

Split will open its doors to you to discover its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with treasures such as Diocletian's Palace or the Cathedral of Saint Domnius. 

Le Boréal will then call at Rovinj, in Istria. A stroll along the cobbled streets of the Old Town reveals an architecture with Venetian influences, enhanced by the radiant beauty of the Adriatic Sea.

The Slovenian shores will await you in Piran, a medieval town extending out into the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic. Its architecture, influenced by five centuries under the rule of the Republic of Venice, affords it a singular charm.

As a grand finale, Venice the Serenissima, which is home, among other sites, to the mythical St Mark’s Square or the sumptuous Doge’s Palace, will mark the end of this enchanted moment.

Cruise the Rhône and Saône rivers, enjoying the region's incomparable wine and cuisine and discovering its many treasures. Stroll the very streets of Arles made famous by Van Gogh. Visit Avignon's majestic Palace of the Popes. Experience "Village Day" in enchanting Viviers. And for those who wish for a more active exploration of the area, you can hike the vineyards of the Rhône and pedal through Lyon, a city designed with bike riders in mind. Explore unforgettable "Burgundy & Provence" where tradition is as deeply rooted as the historic grapevines on the hills.

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.