Name: Wonders of the Caribbean
Brand: PONANT EXPLORATIONS
Rating: 3 (1 reviews)

Overview

The Le Champlain leaves Bordeaux behind as she sets course for Mediterranean and Spain on this 10-night PONANT EXPLORATIONS sailing. You'll step ashore at 3 ports across Mediterranean and Spain, with standout stops at Pauillac and Aviles along the way. This is a cruise that combines the thrill of discovering new destinations with the comfort and luxury of life aboard the Le Champlain. Prices start at £5,580 per person for this 10-night PONANT EXPLORATIONS voyage.

PONANT EXPLORATIONS

When searching for a luxury yacht expedition cruise, there’s one name above all else that you need to know – Ponant Cruises. Founded in 1988 by former French Merchant Navy officers, Ponant combines succulent luxury with authentic adventures on all seven continents.

From classic Mediterranean itineraries and Caribbean sailings, to bucket-list expeditions around Greenland and Antarctica, Ponant cruises proudly counteract the banality of mainstream voyages with a unique take on the concept of small-ship cruising. It’s the absolute trip of a lifetime.

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1

Bordeaux

Ships dock close to the centre, making it easy to explore on foot. The UNESCO-listed old town is packed with neoclassical buildings, lively cafés and riverside walks. Landmarks like Place de la Bourse, the water mirror and the gothic cathedral are all within easy reach.Bordeaux is also home to La Cité du Vin, a futuristic wine museum with interactive exhibits and a panoramic tasting area. You can also hop on a tram to explore the Chartrons district, once home to wine merchants and full of vintage shop and galleries.Cruise excursions might include vineyard visits, bike tours or food tastings. Some itineraries even offer evening moorings here so you can enjoy dinner in town or take a night-time stroll along the Garonne.

Day 2

Pauillac

The port sits right on the Gironde estuary, and from here it’s an easy drive inland to the Route des Châteaux, where names like Lafite Rothschild and Mouton Rothschild line the vineyards.Most cruise excursions from Pauillac focus on wine: guided tastings, vineyard tours and cellar visits. Expect to hear about the terroir of the Médoc and the ageing processes behind Bordeaux’s iconic reds.The town itself is small but pleasant, with a marina, riverside promenade and several wine shops and cafés.

Day 3

Royan

Day 4

Bilbao

Bilbao, once an industrial heartland, has transformed into a hub of modern architecture and art, exemplified by the iconic Guggenheim Museum. The climate here is temperate and inviting, with mild temperatures that make year-round visits pleasant. Cruise lines such as Norwegian and Holland America offer excursions that allow travelers to explore not just the famous museum, but also lesser-known areas like the historic Casco Viejo, or Old Quarter, providing a more rounded glimpse into Bilbao's rejuvenation and traditions. Interestingly, Bilbao is also known for its unique linguistic contribution, being a stronghold of the Basque language, which predates most European languages and adds a layer of mystique to this vibrant city.

Day 5

Santander

Day 6

Aviles

Day 7

La Coruña

Day 8

Vigo

Day 9

Leixões

Nestled along Portugal's picturesque coastline, Leixoes beckons with its maritime legacy. Once a bustling fishing village, it evolved into a vibrant port city, etching its name in seafaring lore. The climate here, with its gentle sea breezes and mild temperatures, creates an idyllic setting for exploration. Unlike typical tourist destinations, Leixoes offers an authentic glimpse into Portuguese coastal life, where locals mingle with visitors in quaint cafes and seafood eateries. Beyond its charming streets, Leixoes boasts one of Europe's largest cruise terminals, serving as a gateway to Portugal's enchanting cities and historic landmarks, making it an essential port of call for discerning travelers.

Day 10

Figueira da Foz

Day 11

Lisbon

In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.

Day 1

Bordeaux

Day 2