Have questions? We're here.
Morning in the RainForest

Caribbean & Orinoco

Example 13 Day Cruise aboard Le Champlain
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal Caribbean trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Leaving from Martinique, head in the direction of the beautiful island of Saint Lucia. Close to the Soufriere volcano, be enchanted by the two emblematic rocky pitons, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which form the backdrop to the island. Then discover the idyllic beaches of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, renowned for the richness of their underwater world. In a setting of white sand, turquoise water and lagoons, enjoy some unforgettable bathing. After a day in Grenada, sail towards the Venezuelan coast to reach the Orinoco, one of South America’s major rivers. Fall under the spell of the very special atmosphere here, between the birdsong from the surrounding jungle and the moving encounters with local populations. At the Salvation Islands visit the former prisons which once held political prisoners and slaves.
Colonial architecture, Cayenne, French GuianaView over the Orinoco riverCaribbeanDock going out into the crystal blue oceanMorning in the RainForest
Highlights
  • Cruise between the Caribbean & the Orinoco to discover postcard landscapes
  • Enjoy encounters with the Warao tribes, translated as “the boat people”
  • See wildlife including spider monkeys, toucans, caimans, and river dolphins
  • Explore the Salvation Islands and stroll through some former prisons
  • Admire the spectacular underwater life in the Grenadines
Activities
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
0

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Fort-de-France, Martinique | Embark

Located on the western coast of Martinique, Fort-de-France's bay is a magnificent cut-out in the coastline, considered as one of the most beautiful in the world. At the harbor mouth, on its strip of land, Fort Saint-Louis overlooks the capital city of Martinique. If you climb up to it, you can see some breathtaking views. Saint Louis Cathedral and the Schoelcher library bear witness to a secular history, intimately linked to the island’s story. Why not try some fresh coconut at the colorful Grand Marché? Two really pleasant places you can take a breather in, right in the heart of the city, are the garden of Balata and the Aimé Césaire Park.

Day 2: Pigeon Point | Soufrière

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Nestled in the crook of a breathtaking bay, the former capital of St. Lucia is brimming with attractions. Soufrière is famous for The Pitons, volcanic spires that tower over the entrance to the town, and you may fall in love with its authentic Creole charm and warm friendly atmosphere. As well as diving and swimming off exquisite beaches, don't miss Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens for the mineral baths, one of the natural wonders of the Caribbean.

Optional Excursions: 

Soufriere by Sea and Land - length: 7h. During this tour, discover the tropical island’s natural beauty. From the pier, board your catamaran for a cruise along the west, passing beautiful bays. Time is allowed for swimming in one of them. The sail continues to Soufrière, where you disembark the catamaran and board a coach for a drive to the famous Sulphur Springs, often referred to as the world’s only “drive in” volcano. This historic site is the result of volcanic eruptions 300,000 thousand years ago. Smell the sulphur fumes as you enter the gates and see it bubbling and boiling on the earth’s surface. Your next stop is Morne Coubaril Estate, where they have recreated plantation life in years gone by. After a creole buffet lunch, go to the Botanical Gardens and Diamond Falls. The gardens are renowned for their beautiful plants and the bath's rejuvenating qualities. Your stroll through the tropical plants leads you to the waterfall. After the visit, return to your ship at anchor in Soufrière Bay.

Magical Soufriere - length: 3h30m. Your journey continues to your first stop, the Botanical Gardens and Diamond Baths. The garden was a famous spot for Napoléon's wife, Joséphine. Marvel at the tropical plants carefully arranged along the sides of the pathway. View the waterfall. Then visit the Sulphur Springs, referred to as the world's only “drive-in” volcano. This historic site is the result of volcanic eruptions some 300,000 years ago. You can admire the sulphuric fumaroles and steam jet outgoing from the floor whereas the sulphurous water of the natural baths boils at a temperature which can reach 338 °F (170 °C). After a short drive, reach Morne Coubaril Estate, a sprawling plateau farm. Producer of cocoa, coffee, coconuts, bananas, and an assortment of other tropical products, this working plantation has been in the business of cultivation since the 17th century.

Day 3: Bequia

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
In the heart of the Caribbean, Bequia is the second largest of 32 islands that make up the country of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This secluded island, strongly attached to its tradition of whale hunting, is popular with visiting yachties and divers. Port Elizabeth, the island's main town, has a lively atmosphere and further afield tropical rainforest and white-sand beaches provide a natural setting for peaceful walks.

Day 4: Tobago Cays

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Scattered between St. Vincent and Grenada, the Tobago Cays comprises five little islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tabac, and Jamesby. This rosary of uninhabited cays in the southern West Indies is a marine park that has some outstanding marine fauna in its turquoise lagoons. Girded and united by a coral reef, these secluded islands are a peaceful paradise for divers, swimmers, and snorkelers.

Day 5: St. George's

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
All the islands of the West Indies are attractive, but some truly stand out. Grenada, also known as “the Spice Island”, is a small, hilly island forged by volcanic activity, with crater lakes and mountain slopes covered with dense tropical rainforest, minuscule villages, and numerous plantations. Its elegant capital, Saint George’s, lies in a horseshoe-shaped harbor on the west coast. It is a particularly picturesque town that has preserved its colonial architecture with its red-tiled roofs and pastel colors. When your ship drops anchor here, discover this island off the beaten path - the wild beauty of its tropical rainforest, its immaculate beaches, and its many waterfalls.

Optional Excursions: 

South Coast Treasures - length: 4hGrenada is an island full of hidden treasures. This excursion brings you closer to picturesque coastlines, old estates, local spices and herbs, and a serene beach. Slowly leaving the hustle and bustle of city life behind, travel into rural Grenada. Driving over the hills pass Fort Frederick. Drifting down to the coast the road continues along this area, which was heavily farmed with sugarcane, some cocoa, and limes. The road meanders along to the Laura lands. Enjoy the scents and sounds of Mother Nature in this garden that boasts local fruits, herbs, spices, and medicinal plants. Continue onto a secluded beach at La Sagesse. The area has charm as its long beach bordered by coconut trees creates an atmosphere of eternal serenity. The constant prevailing winds along with the Atlantic waves have created peninsulas and small islets along the South Coast. Your return drive brings you closer to these islands and passes through a small fishing town before taking you back to the “hectic” city life of St George's.

Spices & Falls - length: 4h. From the pier, drive to the north along the Caribbean Sea. Following the Caribbean rhythm, life glides by at a tranquil pace, passing by one fishermen village after another and the coastal beaches that form an extended ribbon of coral and volcanic sand until you arrive in Gouyave. Here, fishing is not the only source of income, as this small town reveals one of its most surprising features: the nutmeg cooperative plant. Well-protected behind high walls, travel about one century back in time. The long processing chain of this precious spice starts off in the hands and nimble fingers of the ladies, since there are no conveyor belts, no machines. Your next stop is Dougaldston Estate, yet another rustic setting. Founded in 1700, this ancient cocoa plantation opens the wonderful palette of spices and scents of the island. Further down the road, make a tiny detour into the hills to have a look at the Concord Waterfalls, where refreshments are served. After this last stop, return to the pier and your ship.

Day 6: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 7: El Toro, Orenoque

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 8: Puerto Ordaz

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Optional Excursion: 

Cachamay Park & La Llovizna Falls - length: 3h30m. Depart by coach to Cachamay Park. This pleasant zoological park located by the river is only half-a-mile south of Puerto Ordaz. It offers beautiful views on the 600-foot-wide Caroni River Falls. The Caroni River, or "Rio Caroni", is the largest tributary of the Orinoco. Its waters are renowned for black diamonds. In the heart of this park is a large sample of the main trees of the Bolivar state, including the amazing palms. The fauna variety of the Cachamay and La Llovizna Parks are representative of the Orinoco River, land of the caimans, jaguars, howler monkeys, sloths, turtles, otters ... and the countless species of colorful birds that occupy the lush tropical vegetation. Your second stop brings you to La Llovizna Park (or drizzle Park) where you can admire the spectacular waterfalls of Salto La Llovizna at the confluence of the Orinoco River and the Rio Caroni. The numerous waterfalls provide electricity for much of the country.

Day 9: El Arroyo, Orenoque

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 10: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 11: Paramaribo, Suriname

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Optional Excursion:

Paramaribo Historical City Tour - length: 3h30mFrom the pier, board your coach to the Hindu Temple for a visit of one of the largest in the Caribbean. It took 25 years to build, financed by donations only; 35% of the population of Surinam is Hindu. Visit Fort Zeelandia and its museum. This fortress (originally called Fort Willoughby) was built by British colonists in 1651, around a small trading post created by the Dutch. Discover one of the preserved buildings, the Saint Peter & Paul Cathedral at the former Gravenstraat (now called Henck Arronstraat), completely built in wood. This cathedral is the largest wooden building in South America.

Day 12: Iles du Salut

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 13: Cayenne, French Guyana | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Capital of French Guyana located more than 7,000 km from the French mainland, Cayenne offers a harmonious ensemble of monuments, beaches, and old Creole houses on the eastern side of the South American continent. Between history and modernity, the city is marked by the presence of the former prisons, the vestiges of which can be seen on the Salvation Islands. You may visit two museums, the Musée local de la Guyana and the Musée des cultures guyanaises, and learn more about the historic and cultural interests of the region. The Place des Palmistes, with its three soaring Guisanbourg palm trees, is the main square in Cayenne. It provides the setting for a variety of events throughout the year. Say farewell to your fellow passengers and the crew and start your independent journey back home.

Ship/Hotel

Le Champlain

Le Champlain Pool
Ponant Sauna
Swimming pool

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$7,090
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Cabin
Select a Date
Deluxe Stateroom
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with French window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Cabin
Select a Date
Deluxe Suite
Area: 27 m². 6m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower. Up to 3 passengers per cabin.
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Suite Deck 5
Area: 38 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Cabin
Select a Date
Prestige Suite Deck 6
Area: 38 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
Cabin
Select a Date
Privilege Suite
Area: 32 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower. Up to 4 passengers per cabin.
Cabin
Select a Date
Grand Deluxe Suite
Area: 45 m². 30m² private balcony with sliding bay windows. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower + bathtub.
Cabin
Select a Date
Owner's Suite
Area: 45 m². 30m² private balcony with hot tub and sliding bay windows. King-size or twin beds and shower + bathtub.

Notes

Please Note:
Fares are based on double occupancy and are capacity controlled. Rates may increase at any time as the ship sells out and subject to change without notice.
Included
  • 12 Breakfasts, 11 Lunches, 12 Dinners
  • 12 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Gratuities to Onboard Crew
  • “Open Bar” (pouring wines, house champagne, alcohol except premium brands...list available upon request)
  • 24h Room Service (special selection)
  • English-Speaking Lecturer 
  • Highly experienced and bilingual (French-English) expedition staff
  • Park Entry Fees into Protected Areas
  • Water sports activities (except scuba diving) using the ship’s equipment, when permitted by local authorities and confirmed by ship Master according to safety and sea conditions onsite. 
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Visa Fees
  • Optional Excursions - Ponant allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately six to two months prior to the cruise* departure. Please note that this is subject to change. Please contact us for more details.
  • Any ground services before and/or after the cruise other than the ones mentioned
  • Luggage Handling 
  • Laundry Services, Hair Salon, and à La Carte Spa Treatments
  • Pre or post cruise programs, overland programs or shore excursions 
  • Beverages other than the ones mentioned in inclusions
  • CDP recommends that every Traveler has full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses

Map

Inquire

* By providing your phone number, you consent to receive direct phone calls or SMS messages from our Trip Planners to get the process started. We do not share your information with third-parties.
Travel Agents

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Nancy Sin

Caribbean Travel Guide

Favorite Caribbean All Trips

More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By