Name: Central America Jewels & Panama Canal
Brand: PONANT EXPLORATIONS

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

Bergen

Tucked away along Norway's stunning coastline, Bergen invites you to uncover its vibrant history and cultural tapestry. Once a thriving hub of trade for the Hanseatic League, this city's storied past echoes through its narrow alleyways and picturesque harbors. With a temperate maritime climate, Bergen offers a refreshing respite from the ordinary, where crisp sea air mingles with the scent of pine forests. Its rugged landscapes beckon adventurers, while its authentic markets and cozy cafes promise an immersive local experience. As the gateway to the fjords, Bergen unveils a world of natural wonders, including the iconic UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, a testament to its maritime heritage.

Day 2

Flåm

Amidst the majestic fjords of Norway lies Flam, a village steeped in maritime lore. Its history intertwines with the bustling activity of the fjords, where ships once traded goods across the waters. The climate, characterized by crisp air and misty mornings, sets the stage for an authentic Nordic adventure. Here, travelers escape the tourist fray, immersing themselves in the raw beauty of nature. Cruise lines navigate these rugged waters, offering passengers a glimpse into Norway's untouched landscapes. A unique feature of Flam is its famed Flam Railway, hailed as one of the world's steepest train journeys, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.

Day 3

Eidfjord

in the heart of Norway's fjordland, Eidfjord beckons travelers with its storied past and breathtaking natural beauty. Once a bustling Viking trading hub, this picturesque village boasts a rich maritime history that continues to captivate visitors today. The region's temperate climate and stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes to tranquil boat rides along the fjord's crystal-clear waters. Away from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist destinations, Eidfjord offers cruisegoers a truly authentic Norwegian experience, where they can immerse themselves in local traditions and sample fresh Nordic cuisine. As the gateway to Hardangervidda National Park, Eidfjord is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with diverse flora and fauna waiting to be discovered amidst its rugged terrain.

Day 4

At sea

Day 5

Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

Ensconsed inside Orkney's rugged shores, Kirkwall welcomes visitors with its affable nature and maritime past. This ancient seaport boasts a history dating back over a thousand years, where Norse and Scottish influences intertwine. Its temperate climate, tempered by the Gulf Stream, offers mild winters and cool summers, ideal for exploring its picturesque landscapes. As a gateway to Orkney's treasures, Kirkwall beckons with its charming streets and historic landmarks, inviting travelers to uncover its secrets. Don't miss the majestic St. Magnus Cathedral, a testament to the island's enduring spirit, standing proudly amidst the bustling harbor.

Day 6

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

Sat on the rugged coastline of the Isle of Lewis, Stornoway welcomes cruisegoers with tales steeped in Gaelic lore and seafaring traditions. Its history is intertwined with the resilient spirit of its people, from ancient clans to modern-day fishermen. The climate, shaped by the North Atlantic, offers a raw authenticity, with wild winds and dramatic skies painting a vivid backdrop for exploration. Visitors seeking an escape from tourist hotspots find solace in Stornoway's unspoiled landscapes and genuine hospitality. As a unique fact, Stornoway boasts the title of the largest town in the Outer Hebrides, a testament to its significance in Scotland's maritime heritage.

Day 7

Fort William

Day 7

Loch Linnhe

Day 8

Glasgow

Begin your journey in Glasgow, a city steeped in the echoes of its industrial past, where the clang of shipyards once filled the air. Embrace the city's vibrant energy and resilient spirit, reflected in its diverse neighborhoods and eclectic culinary scene. Glasgow's temperate climate invites exploration year-round, with lush parks and gardens offering a peaceful retreat from urban bustle. Delve into the city's creative heart, where world-class museums and galleries showcase Scotland's artistic legacy. As the birthplace of renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Glasgow boasts stunning architectural gems, including the iconic Glasgow School of Art. Prepare to be captivated by Glasgow's timeless charm and enduring allure.

Day 1

Bergen

Tucked away along Norway's stunning coastline, Bergen invites you to uncover its vibrant history and cultural tapestry. Once a thriving hub of trade for the Hanseatic League, this city's storied past echoes through its narrow alleyways and picturesque harbors. With a temperate maritime climate, Bergen offers a refreshing respite from the ordinary, where crisp sea air mingles with the scent of pine forests. Its rugged landscapes beckon adventurers, while its authentic markets and cozy cafes promise an immersive local experience. As the gateway to the fjords, Bergen unveils a world of natural wonders, including the iconic UNESCO-listed Bryggen wharf, a testament to its maritime heritage.

Day 2

Flåm

Amidst the majestic fjords of Norway lies Flam, a village steeped in maritime lore. Its history intertwines with the bustling activity of the fjords, where ships once traded goods across the waters. The climate, characterized by crisp air and misty mornings, sets the stage for an authentic Nordic adventure. Here, travelers escape the tourist fray, immersing themselves in the raw beauty of nature. Cruise lines navigate these rugged waters, offering passengers a glimpse into Norway's untouched landscapes. A unique feature of Flam is its famed Flam Railway, hailed as one of the world's steepest train journeys, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.

Day 3

Eidfjord

in the heart of Norway's fjordland, Eidfjord beckons travelers with its storied past and breathtaking natural beauty. Once a bustling Viking trading hub, this picturesque village boasts a rich maritime history that continues to captivate visitors today. The region's temperate climate and stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, from scenic hikes to tranquil boat rides along the fjord's crystal-clear waters. Away from the hustle and bustle of typical tourist destinations, Eidfjord offers cruisegoers a truly authentic Norwegian experience, where they can immerse themselves in local traditions and sample fresh Nordic cuisine. As the gateway to Hardangervidda National Park, Eidfjord is a haven for nature enthusiasts, with diverse flora and fauna waiting to be discovered amidst its rugged terrain.

Day 4

At sea

Day 5

Kirkwall, Orkney Islands

Ensconsed inside Orkney's rugged shores, Kirkwall welcomes visitors with its affable nature and maritime past. This ancient seaport boasts a history dating back over a thousand years, where Norse and Scottish influences intertwine. Its temperate climate, tempered by the Gulf Stream, offers mild winters and cool summers, ideal for exploring its picturesque landscapes. As a gateway to Orkney's treasures, Kirkwall beckons with its charming streets and historic landmarks, inviting travelers to uncover its secrets. Don't miss the majestic St. Magnus Cathedral, a testament to the island's enduring spirit, standing proudly amidst the bustling harbor.

Day 6

Stornoway, Isle of Lewis

Sat on the rugged coastline of the Isle of Lewis, Stornoway welcomes cruisegoers with tales steeped in Gaelic lore and seafaring traditions. Its history is intertwined with the resilient spirit of its people, from ancient clans to modern-day fishermen. The climate, shaped by the North Atlantic, offers a raw authenticity, with wild winds and dramatic skies painting a vivid backdrop for exploration. Visitors seeking an escape from tourist hotspots find solace in Stornoway's unspoiled landscapes and genuine hospitality. As a unique fact, Stornoway boasts the title of the largest town in the Outer Hebrides, a testament to its significance in Scotland's maritime heritage.

Day 7

Fort William

Day 7

Loch Linnhe

Day 8

Glasgow

Begin your journey in Glasgow, a city steeped in the echoes of its industrial past, where the clang of shipyards once filled the air. Embrace the city's vibrant energy and resilient spirit, reflected in its diverse neighborhoods and eclectic culinary scene. Glasgow's temperate climate invites exploration year-round, with lush parks and gardens offering a peaceful retreat from urban bustle. Delve into the city's creative heart, where world-class museums and galleries showcase Scotland's artistic legacy. As the birthplace of renowned architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Glasgow boasts stunning architectural gems, including the iconic Glasgow School of Art. Prepare to be captivated by Glasgow's timeless charm and enduring allure.

Le Lapérouse

Equipped with an underwater lounge, the Blue Eye, and the latest technologies limiting the impact on the environment, Le Lapérouse offer you a different way to experience the expedition.