Panama, Colombia & Caribbean Islands

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.

Located on the north-east coast of Panama, the San Blas archipelago is a string of coral islands in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. More than 300 islands and cays cover an area of 300 square kilometers offering travelers a multitude of treasures. Sheltered behind a long coral reef, the San Blas Islands are full of enchanting anchorages. The long sandy white beaches bound by crystal-clear waters will allow you to relax and enjoy incredible marine fauna before engaging with the Kunas Indian community. Still subsisting on hunting and fishing, they will welcome you in their villages of bamboo houses gathered near the beaches.

A splendid harbour city in the north of Columbia, a source of inspiration for the Columbian writer Gabriel García Márquez, Cartagena will win you over with its well-preserved colonial architecture, and warm friendly atmosphere. You can visit the sumptuous UNESCO World Heritage fortified historical centre whose churches and houses have magnificent multi-coloured façades. A witness of Spanish domination, the San Felipe de Barajas fortress stands on top of a hill from where you can admire views over the whole city. The Las Bóvedas neighbourhood will charm you with its arcades, used as prison cells during the 19th-century civil wars.

Included Excursion
Cartagena: A Historic Treasure of the Caribbean
Duration : 4h45
With its remarkably well-preserved colonial architecture, Cartagena is like an open-air museum, which has earned it its spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Your excursion will begin with a visit of the San Felipe de Barajas fortress, an imposing structure located just outside the ramparts of the old town. You will have the opportunity to explore the inside of this impressive fortification before heading to the heart of the city. The city is encircled by a dozen or so miles of stone walls, whose construction was spread out over 194 years.

Then, you will take a tour of the Naval Museum, where you will discover Colombia's naval history. The exploration will be followed by a show about Colombian folklore within the same museum. Leaving the Naval Museum, you will be invited to discover the open-air museum that is the city of Cartagena. Stroll around and admire the magnificent churches, the picturesque squares and the cafés which seem to remain stuck in the 16th century. A guide will lead you through your stroll around the cobblestoned streets, providing you with precious information about the history of Cartagena. After this walk, you will visit the town’s historic museum, also known by the name of the Palace of the Inquisition, where you will discover the first acts of the Holy Office of the Inquisition. You will then have some free time to do some shopping before returning aboard the ship.

This excursion involves walking around 900 metres (2,953 feet) on cobblestoned streets with some stairs. We recommend you wear light clothing and comfortable shoes.

Santa Marta, located in the north of the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is a seaside town dominated by the majestic Sierra Nevada. The highest coastal chain of mountains in the world, it is listed as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO for the diversity of its fauna and flora. At the heart of the first Spanish colony, you will discover the heritage of the Tairona, the largest indigenous civilization in Colombia. The eponymous national park offers you sumptuous landscapes, combining lush tropical forest and beautiful fine sandy beaches edged with crystal-clear water. The archaeological heritage and the Pre-Columbian treasures of the region are a source of endless enchantment.

Included Excursions
Tayronaka: Jungle and Ancient Civilizations
Duration : 7h00
Tucked away in the heart of a lush jungle in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, the Taironaka ruins will reveal the history and culture of one of Colombia's 70 indigenous tribes, all believed to be descended from pre-Hispanic civilisations.

At the pier, you will board your coach for the approximately 1.5-hour journey to the Taironaka ruins. En route, admire the tropical jungle scenery, majestic mountains, traditional villages and roadside fruit stalls.

On arrival, you will leave the road behind and follow a forest trail. Follow the path through the lush vegetation to the remains of an ancient village that was inhabited between 800 and 1600 AD. Not far from there are the lands of the Kogi, considered to be direct descendants of the Tairona tribe. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the ruins and an introduction to Kogi culture, followed by some free time to explore the site at your leisure. Before heading back to your ship, you will be served a traditional lunch.

This excursion involves two hours of walking on uneven ground with some steps. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, and bringing sun protection and mosquito repellent. The lunch is included in your tour. Bring a swimsuit and towel if you wish to cool off in the river. 

The guide offers to collect a voluntary, non-mandatory donation from passengers to support community development. 
This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility or disabled.

Santa Marta: Colombian History and Traditions
Duration : 4h00
Set off to explore history-filled Santa Marta and its treasures. This oldest city in Colombia is yours to discover.
Located on the Caribbean coast, Santa Marta boasts a natural harbour, beautiful beaches and stunning views. The Spanish established their first settlement here, leaving their mark on the city's landscape.

Your first stop in this historic city will be the Museo del Oro Tairona, the Tayrona Gold Museum, located on the second floor of the Bank of the Republic. There, you will find a collection of pre-Columbian artefacts, as well as precious gold and ceramic objects made by the Taironas. Next, you will visit the cathedral, dating from 1529 and said to have been built using planks from barrels that floated down the river during floods.

Finally, you will visit the Quinta de San Pedro Alejandrino, a 17th-century hacienda listed as a national monument. In 1830, Don Joaquín Mier y Benítez gifted this country estate to Simón Bolívar, who spent his final days there. Today, the villa's interior has been restored, and its extensive gardens have been returned to their former glory.

Before making your way back to your ship, you will enjoy a show celebrating Colombian culture through traditional songs and dances, followed by a refreshing drink.

This excursion includes walking a distance of approximately 1 km (0.6 miles), and some stairs. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and sun protection. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). The drink is included in the excursion. 

As the Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Tairona) is closed on Mondays, it may be replaced by a visit to the Bolivarian Museum.This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility or disabled.

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 will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Surrounded by a barrier reef and a marine sanctuary, Bonaire is a true paradise for divers. This peaceful and preserved little island is renowned all over the world for its coral reefs, which are directly accessible from the beach, providing a unique sensation of freedom. Discover magnificent marine fauna and flora while snorkeling or diving in its turquoise waters. The Washington Slagbaai National Park in the north of the island is home to many birds. It is the most important breeding site in the south Caribbean for the pink flamingo, the island’s emblematic animal.

Included Excursions
Bonaire Highlights: Island Wonders and Scenic Gems
Duration : 3h30
From the pier, board your coach and start your panoramic tour along the coast to discover the highlights of Bonaire.
Bonaire Island seems to have risen from the sea as the fossils embedded in limestone suggest. The contrasting colours of the Caribbean Sea and the pink salt-pans, snow-white salt mounds and clear blue skies make the island unique. The exotic landscape is chock-full of huge candelabra cacti, 'Divi-divi' trees, birds and wildlife.

You will head North through the centre of town and more residential areas towards a salt lake — an excellent opportunity to stop and snap a picture of the flamingos.

The drive to Goto Lake will provide you with plenty of opportunities to admire the endemic flora and fauna, as well as the aloe vera plantation.
Goto Lake, a natural salt water lake and feeding ground for the flamingos, is one of the most unique locations on the island. Following narrow, tree-lined country lanes will bring you to a natural drinking well for animals before reaching Rincon Village. Upon arrival, you will listen to tales about this ancient village, built by Spanish explorers in the 14th century.

Reboard your coach for the drive to Washington-Slagbaai National Park. At the entrance to the National Park, there is a complete 12 m-long whale skeleton. You will then be able to visit the natural history plantation museum and the open-air exhibit for a peak into Bonaire’s heritage.

Finally, drive along the colorful southern coast, home to the salt company and the flamingo’s protected nesting grounds. Learn how salt is produced today on Bonaire, and how the slaves mined it in the 17th century. At the Slave Huts, see and feel history as you visit the original huts used as shelters by the slaves.

This excursion includes some walking on uneven surfaces with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, bring insect repellent and protect yourself from the sun. There is no guarantee you will be able to see any local flora or fauna.

Tranquil Escape: Sun, Sea and Salt
Duration : 4h00
Set off to discover the magnificent south coast of Bonaire and plunge into the heart of the island’s historic and natural heritage by enjoying a unique adventure between the vast salt pans and the tranquility of the ocean.
 
Begin your escapade by exploring the Bonaire salt pans, where you will discover the fascinating process of salt production, which has shaped the island’s landscape. During the visit, you will be able to observe the dwellings of the slaves who, in the 19th century, maintained the salt industry, while you admire the famous pink flamingos that populate the island.
 
Finally, you will head for the Ocean Oasis Beach Club for a moment of relaxation and contemplation. In this little corner of paradise, you will be able to go for a swim and discover the underwater life of the Bonaire National Marine Park. If you would prefer to relax, make yourself comfortable in a lounger in the shade of a parasol, while savoring a refreshment or some fresh fruit.
 
For this excursion, the team recommends you wear shoes suitable for walking in the water, a swimming costume and sun protection (sunglasses, hat, sun cream). Refreshments will be offered at the beach club. The bar and restaurant also propose a selection of cocktails, beers, wine and delicious dishes (not included).

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 centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Among the string of paradisiac islands with their sandy beaches that form Saint Vincent and the Grenadines archipelago, Mayreau is the smallest. Its peaceful and idyllic atmosphere, far from the madding crowd, invites you to relax. Onshore, enjoy a shaded and fully equipped beach from which to go snorkeling if you’d like to observe the colorful fish around the coral sitting at the foot of the rocks that stretch across the bay.

Linked to St Lucia by a sand causeway, Pigeon Island has been a designated National Park since 1979. On this wild and pristine land, you will be inspired to take pleasant walks amid the tropical vegetation and through a magnificent tree-filled garden. You will also be irresistibly drawn to the two pretty little sandy beaches nestling on the southern side and bathed by crystal-clear waters. While snorkelling, be sure to explore the underwater world that is teeming with life, along the rocks lining this peninsula’s coast. You will thoroughly enjoy the calm and beauty of this place, which is really conducive to simply relaxing.

Included Excursions
Soufriere: Volcano and Coastal Adventure
During this tour, discover the tropical island’s natural beauty. From the pier, board your catamaran for a cruise along the west coast, passing Castries harbour before arriving to Marigot Bay. Your cruise continues to "Anse Cochon" where you will enjoy a nice swimming. From here, you will head to Soufrière, home of the majestic Pitons.

From Soufrière pier, you will disembark the catamaran and board a bus for the short drive through the historic town of Soufriere to the Old Mill restaurant where a local buffet lunch and local fruit juice will be served.

After your lunch, you will continue to the Botanical Gardens and Diamond Baths, where the exuberant vegetation spreads its colour among a profusion of exotic flowers. The garden was a famous spot for Napoléon's wife, Joséphine. Marvel at the tropical plants carefully arranged along the sides of the pathway leading to the waterfall.

After this retreat from the outside world, you will drive Soufrière, referred to as the Caribbean's only "drive-in" volcano. This historic site is the result of volcanic eruptions some 300,000 years ago. The Soufrière is an active volcano, where you will have the occasion to observe the Sulphur springs. Smell the sulphur as you enter the gates and inhale the natural scents (it has been proven that the sulphur water has many medicinal properties). See the sulphuric fumaroles and steam jet escape from the soil whereas the sulphurous water of the natural baths boil at a temperature which can reaching 338 °F (170 °C).
After a short drive, you will reach Morne Coubaril Estate for a guided tour hof this 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. It maintains some of the same harvesting and processing practices that have served it in good stead for hundreds of years.
Finally, you will return to your ship, at anchor in Soufrière Bay.

This tour involves walking times with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes with rubber soles, wear your swimsuit under your clothes, bring a towel from the ship and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended for persons suffering from hip, back, knee nor respiratory problems. Your beverage package includes a soft drink and a coffee. Children must be at least 5 years old to participate and be accompanied by a parent. This tour is limited to 80 participants.

Saint Lucia Canopy Adventure: Ziplining Through the Forest
Duration : 3h00
From the pier, you will meet your local guide and board your minivan (or bus) for a 30-minute scenic drive to the community of Chassin and the “Rainforest Sky Rides” park, St Lucia’s premiere eco-adventure park located in the heights of St Lucia’s Forest Reserve.
This original activity will allow you to discover the beauty of the island and the richness of its flora and fauna from a unique vantage point. You'll be in for a real thrill on this dynamic and sporting tour.
Upon your arrival at the park, you will be met by your zipline guides for a briefing, and they will help you get geared up as you are hitched up to a series of cables, zipping from platform to platform through the island’s lush rainforest.
After your ziplining activity, you will enjoy a short and easy nature hike through the rainforest with a naturalist guie before having some time to browse through the Amazona Gift shop. Finally, you will reboard your coach and be back to your ship.

This excursion is only recommended for active guests in good physical condition. It is not recommended for pregnant women, neither for guests suffering from back, neck or shoulders problems. Participants should be at least 8 years old to participate and children must be accompanied by one parent. We recommend you wear comfortable closed toe walking shoes as well as long pants and to protect yourself from the sun. A signed waiver is required to participate. This tour can welcome a maximum of 40 participants.

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. In the vicinity of the lush botanical gardens, you will be able to enjoy the curative powers of the Diamond Falls mineral baths. From the beach at the north end of the bay, you can set off to explore the reefs that are home to stunning gardens of sea fans at the foot of the cliffs that plunge into the sea.

During the feast of All Saints in 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered this archipelago of nine islands that he named "The Saints". Today, only two of them are inhabited. Terre de Haut, in the east, is dominated by the Morne Mire hill; at the summit stands Fort Napoleon, paying homage to the islands' history. In the heart of the botanical garden, shared by iguanas and cacti, there is an exceptional view of the Baie des Saintes, one of the most beautiful in the world. The long shady beach of Pompierre, where it is forbidden to drop anchor, is a peaceful place for a swim, while Pain de Sucre Beach offers wonderful opportunities for snorkelling. On the island, don’t forget to taste the local speciality, the “tourment d’amour”, a cake made with coconut.

Included Excursions
Napoleon's Legacy: Fortress and Old Town Walk
Duration : 3h30
From the pier, you will meet your guide to discover the secrets of Terre-de-Haut.
After a short walk, you will board a mini-bus and drive to the Vauban-style Fort Napoléon which overlooks ‘La Baie des Saintes’. It was built in the mid-1800's as a tribute to Napoleon III on the site of the original Fort Louis, destroyed by the English in 1809.

From here you have a guided tour of the fort and you will learn about islanders lifestyle.You will then stroll down to a shipyard in Marigot Bay to see how they build traditional boats, before heading for the centre of Bourg. 

During this excursion, a snack of local delicacies "tourment d'amour" and local juices will be served.

This excursion involves around two hours of walking on uneven ground on different levels with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The number of participants is limited.

Les Saintes by Sea: Hidden Coves and Swimming
Duration : 3h00
From the pier, board your motorboat and start your scenic journey around the isles of les Saintes. The archipelago of les Saintes consists of nine islands spread between Terre-de-Haut and Terre-de-Bas main islands.
Head first to the Marigot bay, a place in Terre-de-Haut Island well-known by local fishermen, before going around to reach îlet à Cabrit and other islets.
Sailing along the southern coast of Terre-de-Haut Island, you will then reach the small uninhabited island of Grand Ilet, a paradise for tortoises and seabirds. Following a stop at La Coche, continue to Terre-de-Bas where you can see an old pottery workshop, as well as turtles and pelicans who settled there.
Back to Terre-de-Haut, you will then sail to the Pain de Sucre (Sugar loaf), a geological formation caused by an ancient basalt flow. There, enjoy some free time for bathing, snorkelling and having a refreshment, before sailing back to the pier and your ship.

This tour involves very limited walking. We recommend you wear comfortable nonslip shoes, have your swimsuit under your clothes, take a towel and a bottle of water from the ship, and protect yourself from the sun. Mask and snorkel will be provided. Refreshments are included in the tour. The motorboat is equipped with removable roof and a ladder, but no toilets. Passengers must be able to embark and disembark without assistance. The fauna and flora observation is not guaranteed. The number of participants is limited.

Fort Caroline: Panoramic Trail and History
Duration : 3h00
On this hike, you will discover the dry vegetation characteristic of the north of the island, as well as magnificent views over the archipelago.
Your guide will take you from the pier to the boat house. You will walk along the road around the village towards the bay of Marigot to reach the start of the hiking trail.

You will start the climb by following the Conservatoire du Littoral trail to get your first view of Marigot. You will discover the flora typical of the island's arid zones, made up of candle cactus, aloe vera, tufts of mal-tête grass, frangipani and red gum trees. This magnificent walk offers superb views, including a privileged vantage point over Terre de Haut. As you continue your ascent, you will once again enjoy panoramic views of Terre de Bas, the Sugar Loaf and, opposite, Fort Napoléon.

You will then switch to the Marie-Galante side to reach the summit of Morne Morel, 136m above sea level. Known locally as Battery Caroline, this was a strategic position where, until the 19th century, soldiers could easily spot the enemy fleet. From the old fortifications, you will catch a glimpse of La Dominique.
You will then start the descent, which can be a little technical on the stony path, but will take you down to the Bay of Pompierre, with its superb beach lined with coconut palms. Your guide will be sure to tell you all about the different species that make up the fauna, as well as the cursed fig tree.
Finally, you will return by road to the village and your ship.

This excursion involves a 3-hour walk on the road and an irregular path of pebbles and gravel. There is a 150m difference in altitude. Occasional hikers can easily undertake this trek. We recommend you bring a small rucksack with water (minimum 1l per person), sun protection and light hiking shoes or sneakers. The hike is not suitable in wet weather due to slippery descents and passages under the manchineels.

Located on the western coast of Martinique, Fort-de-France will amaze 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 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 Marche. Two really pleasant places you can take a breather in, right in the heart of the city, are the garden of Balata and the Aime Césaire park.