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.

Dive into the heart of Baffin Bay, a vast icebound world where the currents shape landscapes of striking beauty. Amid the majestic silhouettes of icebergs, Inuit villages, home to some of the last bear hunters and narwhal fishers, appear as flashes of colour at the foot of basalt formations. Savissivik and its frozen giants evoke a timeless world, while Disko Bay, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals natural formations in a constant state of metamorphosis.

In these lands where Inuit traditions endure amid the vast white expanse, the horizon may offer a glimpse of the grace of a narwhal or the imposing presence of a polar bear. Further south, tundra and steep cliffs form a vivid landscape marked by the primal power of ice.

We are privileged guests in these extreme lands where we are at the mercy of weather and ice conditions. The itinerary, 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, while complying with the safety rules and instructions imposed by the AECO.

Set sail aboard Le Dumont d’Urville for an exceptional 9-day cruise from Nice to discover the Western Mediterranean. From towns brimming with history to stunning islands, this unforgettable itinerary has many a surprise in store.

Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. On this cruise, stroll through the streets of Bonifacio to discover the most beautiful treasures of its heritage, explore the island of Menorca, from Mahon, to admire the island’s most beautiful sights including villages, coves and breathtaking panoramas, or fall in love with the natural beauty of Albufera Park from Valencia.  The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab)

You will set sail for 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. 

The sumptuous archipelago formed by the pointe de la Parata and the Sanguinaires islands announces the entrance to the Gulf of Ajaccio. The long line of crests seems to extend the coast like a backbone. Listed as a Grand Site de France and a Natura 2000 area, this coastal landscape at the foot of the mountains is home to exceptional biodiversity adapted to the harsh climate. Here, Nature is the star attraction.

Le Dumont d’Urville will then sail to Bonifacio, the jewel of the far south of Corsica. A veritable fortress sculpted by the wind and the spray, the 'sentinel city' will reveal its historical centre and its long, cobbled streets.

Then you will make its way to Sardinia and the Port of Alghero. Discover its rich past reflected in its medieval fortifications, its historic centre, and its majestic cathedral.

Your cruise will then stop in the Balearic Islands on the well-preserved island of Menorca. Mahon, the island’s capital, will charm you with its age-old history and its exceptional port, which, at 6 kilometres (3.7 miles) long, is the biggest in the Mediterranean! A little further on, Ibiza, the “White Island” will enchant you with its wild coves and villages of white fincas, a natural beauty that has earned the status of UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You will head to Valencia, Spain’s third largest city, a city full of contrasts, where the picturesque charm of the historic centre blends with the futuristic architecture of the new buildings.

Finally, you will sail towards Barcelona, your disembarkation port.