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Soufrière Bay, Saint Lucia

Between Martinique and Panama

Example 10 Day Cruise aboard Le Champlain
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Start your trip by visiting Fort-de-France and strolling through its colorful markets and lively streets. Then sail to the gorgeous island of Saint Lucia, known for its famous Pitons, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After calling at Grenada, Le Champlain heads for the idyllic Los Roques archipelago. This small paradise in the Venezuelan Caribbean has been declared a national park and is an ideal spot to dive and snorkel in a turquoise lagoon with stunning seabeds. The cities of Willemstad on the island of Curaçao and Cartagena in Colombia are both heavily influenced by their colonial past and offer a number of interesting sights and landmarks. Finally, succumbing to the charms of the clear waters of Panama and the San Blas archipelago. 
St George's Harbor - GrenadaTropical Caribbean Beach in MartiniqueAn old lighthouse on CuracaoSan Pedro Claver Plaza, CartagenaSoufrière Bay, Saint Lucia
Highlights
  • Visit Cartagena de Indias' old town a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Discover the spectacular Los Roques archipelago, a paradise for sea turtles
  • Explore the stunning San Blas Islands from Holandes Cay
  • Be part of a extraordinary encounter with the Kuna Indians, a warrior tribe
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.
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Full Itinerary

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

Located on the western coast of Martinique, Fort-de-France amazes you by the splendor of its bay, 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 breath-taking 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 Island | Soufriere

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Linked to St Lucia by a sand causeway, Pigeon Island has been a designated National Park since 1979. The tropical vegetation of this wild, protected island is home to abundant birdlife. It is easy to explore on foot; the remains of Fort Rodney offer an insight into the region's naval history as well as fabulous views. Two beautiful beaches nestled on the southern side of the island, where you can take a モsnubaヤ dive adventure, an exciting mix of diving and snorkeling.

Nestled in the crook of a breath-taking 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 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.

Day 3: Saint 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 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

Grenada 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, you will travel into rural Grenada. Driving over the hills passing Fort Frederick - built in 1791 by the French to protect the islands from the enemy, you will glimpse the panoramic view that stretches from the town of St George’s to Grand Anse. Fort Frederick stands dominant in front of the tropical rainforest and above the Caribbean Sea, offering a panoramic view of 360° and the opportunity to make beautiful pictures. Enjoy the scents and sounds of Mother Nature in this garden that boasts local fruits, herbs, spices and medicinal plants.
Continue on to 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

The west coast of Grenada hosts many features that are very specific to Grenada: spices and cocoa at Dougaldston Estate, nutmeg in Gouyave and in the tropical heights - waterfalls. 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 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. 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 4-5: Los Roques

  • Ship
  • 2 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
em>Le Champlain will head for the idyllic Los Roques archipelago. This small paradise in the Venezuelan Caribbean has been declared a national park and is an ideal spot to dive and snorkel in a turquoise lagoon with stunning seabeds. 

Day 6: Willemstad, Curacao

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
The capital of Curaçao stretches along the edge of St Ann's Bay on the island's south-west coast, and its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site. A profusion of color awaits you on the Handelskade quays, where it's a pleasure to stroll alongside the merchants' houses whose rainbow façades characterize Dutch colonial architecture. You can also visit Fort Rif and the Maritime Museum, or, in the quieter streets of Otrobanda, youメll enjoy browsing the craft shops and old-time bars at your own leisurely pace.

Optional Excursions: 

JEEP SAFARI

This outing aboard a four-wheel drive vehicle gives you the opportunity to experience the wild side of Curaçaoand marvel at the interesting formations within Brua Cave. Be greeted at the pier by your guide, who leads you to your vehicle and provide a safety briefing, as you ride over rugged terrain in the open vehicle. Sit back and let your guide take the wheel, allowing you to focus your full attention on the scenery as it unfolds before you. Not only you can see cacti and divi-divi trees, but you may also spy the island's unique wildlife, such as lizards, flamingos, and birds of prey called wara wara.
Stopping at the Brua Cave, hear about the time of slavery and the role of the cave in slavery's history. Today, the cave tempts visitors into its depths for a viewing of its old stalactites and a glimpse of its resident bats.
Rejoining your vehicle, view more of the island's scenery en route to your ship.

HEART OF CURACAO

From the pier, embark your coach for a panoramic drive through Otrobanda, before enjoying a walking tour through Kura Hulanda village. An entire section of this quarter was transformed into a magnificently renovated historical district, the best example of Dutch colonial architecture in the Caribbean.
After the walking tour, drive through the Jewish Quarter in Punda towards Fort Nassau, where a stop is made. Here, the top of the hill offers stunning photo opportunities.
Next, drive to the north towards Baai Klaas and stop to see the salt planes, before visiting the land house of former slave owner Jan Kok, one of the oldest land houses on the island. After the visit, on the way back to your ship, a stop will be made at the flamingo sanctuary

UNESCO CITY WALK

Discover why historic Willemstad has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage City with this excursion on foot. Beginning your outing at the pier, follow your guide to Rif Fort, a 19th-century structure that once guarded the island with 56 cannons in its 27 arches. Today, this site welcomes visitors with music, entertainment and inviting dining venues. Making your way to the historic Punda district, cross Santa Ana Bay by ferry or perhaps by the floating bridge. As you walk along Punda's waterside area, called “Handelskade”, your guide points out some of the city's 765 listed monuments, mansions, shop houses and townhouses, and share with you the history of the vibrantly-hued buildings.
Another of Curaçao's must-sees is the floating market, where merchants from Venezuela gather to sell a colorful array of fresh fruits and vegetables.  At the Maritime Museum, sip a refreshing beverage and take advantage of the chance to peruse interesting exhibits that tell the tale of the island's nautical history.
Following your museum visit, walk back to your ship on your own, enjoying the sights and sounds of the historic Punda district.

Day 7: At Sea

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
During your day at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they are able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observer marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 8: Cartagena

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Founded in 1522 at the time of the conquistadors, Cartagena has preserved the traces of its rich colonial past. Its imposing ramparts are further proof of the tumultuous history of this city. As the site for storing the gold looted from the Aztec and Inca empires before it was taken to Spain, the city was also frequently the target of pirates and privateers. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, the romanticism of this city with its narrow streets and colourful façades would charm you. Set sail in the footsteps of the Spanish sailors who conquered Central America and relive this page of history during your stopover here.

Optional Excursions: 

CARTAGENA OF THE INDIES

From the pier, board your coach for a 15-minute drive to an ancient monastery located on top of the hill. Built at the beginning of the 17th century, this monastery can be seen from any point in Cartagena and offers a unique view of the city. Still in activity, La Popa houses a chapel dedicated to the Virgen de la Candelaria, patron saint of Cartagena, and a colonial museum. Visit the monastery with its ornate, 22 carat gold-leaf altar and a lovely flower-filled courtyard.
Continue to the Old City and stroll down its colonial streets adorned by balconies overflowing with flowers. See San Pedro and Bolivar square, the main square of the city. There, visit the Gold Museum that shows valuable pre-Columbian gold artefacts, some of the oldest ceramics in the Americas. Admire the Cathedral and the original headquarters of the colonial Spanish government. Watch for the statue of Simón Bolivar, as well as the Inquisition Palace and all the history it implies.
Then, go to Fuerte de San Sebastian del Pastelillo. This little fortress is one of the town's first defence posts. It was built in the middle of the 18th century on the site of the oldest fort of Cartagena, demolished during the siege by British Admiral Vernon in 1741.
Finally, reboard your coach and return to the pier and your ship.

SAN FELIPE FORTRESS & RAFAEL NUÑEZ HOUSE

From the pier, board your coach and drive to the San Felipe fortress, one of the colony’s architectural military gems and the largest Spanish fort in the New World. 
Next, visit the house where former president Rafael Nuñez, the four-time President of the Republic, lived and died. Rafael Nuñez posthumously guided the destiny of Colombia until 1991, when the current Constitution was adopted. 
Continue to the Old City and stroll down its colonial streets adorned by balconies overflowing with flowers. See San Pedro and Bolivar square, the main square of the city. Admire the Cathedral and the original headquarters of the colonial Spanish government. Watch for the statue of Simón Bolivar, as well as the Inquisition Palace and all the history it implies.
Visit the Inquisition Palace, the eighteenth-century seat of the Holy Office of the Inquisition in Cartagena. It has been described as “one of the finer buildings” in Cartagena and cited as one of Cartagena's “best examples of late colonial civil architecture.” Enjoy some leisure time to explore the historical centre and perhaps buy some souvenirs. Finally, re-board your coach and return to the ship.

Day 9: Holandes Cayes

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Holandes Cayes is among the islands of the San Blas archipelago, a string of coral islands that graces the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Some 378 islands and cays covering an area of 260 square kilometers offer travelers a multitude of natural and cultural treasures. Holandes Cayes, which is nicknamed the swimming pool, is popular with the cruise-yachting community for its white sand beaches and diving and snorkeling opportunities.

Day 10: Colón, Panama | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Colón is the second largest city in Panama, at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. Colón is today an important port, and the free trade zone created in 1953 contributed greatly to the development of the city.  Colón was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad connecting the Atlantic and Pacific coasts through the isthmus of Panama; the city rapidly overshadowed the older Caribbean ports of Panama when the canal opened. Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home. 

Ship/Hotel

Le Champlain

Le Champlain Pool
Ponant Sauna
Swimming pool

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Deluxe Stateroom
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with French window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
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Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
Area: 19 m². 4m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
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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.
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Prestige Suite Deck 5
Area: 38 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
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Prestige Suite Deck 6
Area: 38 m². 8m² private balcony with sliding bay window. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower.
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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.
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Grand Deluxe Suite
Area: 45 m². 30m² private balcony with sliding bay windows. King-size bed or twin beds, and shower + bathtub.
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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
  • 9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 9 Dinners
  • 9 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

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This was our first trip to South America and we were a little nervous. But Adventure Life made things so easy! All our questions were answered before we left, and our guide, Vidal, was amazing! He gave us enough space to explore without rushing us along. He also knew where the best picture taking opportunities were, which was great.
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