This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT themed voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world-class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence. This 7-night voyage along the Eastern Seaboard, from Halifax, Nova Scotia to Baltimore, Maryland, is designed to commemorate this milestone with carefully curated activities both aboard ship and ashore. These experiences will highlight the nation’s history from the colonial and revolutionary periods, through the Civil War, and into the present day, always recognizing the contributions of the diverse peoples who have shaped it. To add profound depth and resonance to this program, two very special Guests of Honor will accompany our voyage to provide talks and invaluable insights aboard: Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King, renowned civil rights leaders and global humanitarians. We’ll also be joined by another thematic expert to further enhance your journey with lectures and discussions onboard.
Leaving Halifax, your first day is spent sailing along the rugged coastline of Nova Scotia and across the Gulf of Maine to dock in historic Boston Harbor early the following morning. While in Boston, you will have a choice of several walking tours: one that celebrates Boston's central role in colonial and revolutionary times by visiting the historic sites along its famous Freedom Trail; another that explores Brahmin Beacon Hill and upscale Quincy Market; and one that takes you across the Charles River to Cambridge and Harvard Yard before returning to Boston for a tour of historic Copley Square, including the Boston Public Library, the first free municipal library in the United States.
Call next in Newport, Rhode Island, once a favorite summer resort for the railroad and industrial tycoons of the Gilded Age. Tour the opulent 'cottages' of Vanderbilts and Carnegies and enjoy a stroll along the stunningly beautiful Cliff Walk. Or, celebrate Newport's storied history as the 'world capital of sailing' and home of the America's Cup on a cruise around Narragansett Bay aboard an 80-foot sailing schooner.
Sail into New York Harbor and past the emblematic Statue of Liberty. During your full day in the city, you may choose to discover one of its most celebrated landmarks on a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge followed by a visit to the newly fashionable neighborhood of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), a waterfront community of trendy boutiques, bookstores, and art galleries. Or you may want to pay tribute to the memory of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, on a tour of the area where the World Trade Center stood, including St. Paul's Chapel, the FDNY Memorial Wall, and the solemn September 11 Memorial & Museum. Alternatively, trace your heritage with a visit to Ellis Island.
After a day at sea, from Philadelphia, travel west to the Amish Country of Lancaster County, where you will see farms being worked with horsepower, visit the Amish Village Museum, and perhaps shop for some Amish crafts. Alternatively, stay in the city of brotherly love and enjoy one of three tours—a walk focused on the Revolutionary Period, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall; an exploration of Philly's food scene; or a visit to the Philadelphia Black Metropolis to learn about this section of the city and its role in the struggle for civil rights.
Your voyage ends in Baltimore where you will transfer to the airport for flights homeward.
- A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included excursion in each port of call.
- Engaging discussions on board with civil rights leaders and global humanitarians Martin Luther King III and Arndrea Waters King as our special guests of honor.
- Onboard lectures from a thematic expert to provide further context and perspective on American history and culture.
- A diverse and multicultural approach to celebrating 250 years of the American experience.
- Sites associated with the Colonial Period and the American Revolution in Boston and Philadelphia.
- Opportunities to pay tribute to the fallen at the September 11 memorial or trace your heritage at Ellis Island in New York.
- Culinary tours in Philadelphia and Boston - A discovery of Black history or visit to Amish Country in Philadelphia.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
A historical port city on the Canadian east coast, Halifax, surrounded by enchanting nature, stands out as the provincial capital and the cultural hub of Nova Scotia. The city played an important strategic military role in the two world wars and was also the largest Royal Navy base during the American Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic Wars. Most of the victims of the Titanic disaster were laid to rest here in the Fairview cemetery, which you will have the chance to discover. At this port of call, you will also have the opportunity to visit the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove and discover its breathtaking natural landscapes.
During your journey 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 journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or 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.
Nicknamed “ America's Walking City”, the city is considered to be the epicentre of American history. Founded in 1630, the tenth largest agglomeration in the United States, is a pleasure for walkers. To get around, just follow the Freedom Trail circuit that serves most of the tourist sites with its red line traced on the ground. Don’t miss all the delicious local specialities on offer at Quincy Market, like the lobster sandwich, and then take time to explore North End, the Italian quarter. For the more romantic among you, Beacon Hill, the historic quarter, with its absolutely charming cobbled streets, is really worth a look.
This marina harbour, with only 25,000 inhabitants, boasts fabulous Gilded Age mansions inspired by French and Italian palaces. One example is The Elms, the summer residence of the Berwind family, who made their fortune in the coal industry. Another is the imposing Château-sur-Mer built by the Wetmore family. But the cream of the crop is The Breakers, a Renaissance-style palace composed of 70 rooms.
The biggest city in the United States is fascinating on many accounts. With its five particularly spread out districts - Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx and Staten Island –, it offers an incredible number of cultural interests. You’ll just love taking in the constant buzz in Times Square, visit Ground Zero, taking a stroll in Central Park’s 341 hectares, or climbing to the top of the Statue of Liberty. Not surprising then that the Big Apple is to be consumed without moderation!
During your journey 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 journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or 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.
Philadelphia, the "birthplace of America," is home to iconic historical landmarks like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, as well as the Museum of the American Revolution and Elfreth's Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in the U.S. Art lovers may wish to explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art and its famous "Rocky Steps," while foodies will love the city's thriving culinary scene—including the famous Philly cheesesteak. For outdoor enthusiasts, Fairmount Park is one of the largest urban green spaces in the country.
Any visit to Baltimore is incomplete with time spent in its Inner Harbor, featuring the National Aquarium, historic ships, and waterfront dining. History lovers can visit Fort McHenry, where the Star-Spangled Banner was written, and explore the city's many museums. Baltimore’s diverse neighborhoods, like Fells Point and Mount Vernon, offer charming streets, local shops, and great restaurants. And food lovers will want to sample Maryland’s famous crab cakes in the city that made them famous.
Itineraries are subject to change.
L'Austral
Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship
This superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins is the result of the expertise of the Italian Fincantieri shipyard and French sophistication, as interpreted by designer Jean-Philippe Nuel. L'Austral has a unique atmosphere, a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy and well-being.
A sleek silhouette softened by elegantly smooth contours and large, arched windows opening up to the sea and the light: so many features come together to give L’Austral her distinctive shape. Precious materials, discreet elegance and a perfect balance between chic and casual, combine to make you feel as if you are on your own private yacht. A design blending tradition and innovation, where a nautical mood has been subtly recreated. Precious materials in smoothing neutral tones are brought to life with splashes of cheerful reds. So many personal touches create the spirit of a “private yacht”.
Suites and staterooms
You can expect magnificent ocean views as 124 staterooms and suites have balconies.
Individually-controlled airconditioning • Cabin layout: kingsize bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available (children welcome) • Minibar • Flat screen satellite TV • IPod™ players • Desk with stationery • Electronic safe • French bath products • Dressing table and hairdryer • Bath robes • Satellite direct line telephone • 110/220 volts • 24hr room service • WiFi • Balcony
Cuisine
Loyal to the great French tradition, the haute cuisine on board is worthy of the finest restaurants, where discreet, attentive service is the hallmark.
Choose from two restaurants for breakfasts, lunch and dinner. The Gastronomic Restaurant is situated on Le Liberté Deck and serves you French and international cuisine accompagnied by fine wine. On the Grill Restaurant, you have the opportuniny to eat outside and enjoy buffet lunch and themed dinner.
Life On Board
Whether you want to join other guests in the theatre or games area (Wii™ consoles, etc), or relax on your own in a quiet corner of the library, L'Austral has been designed to meet the needs of every guest.
Everything has been done to preserve the independence of each guest to suit their personal tastes: lounges for lectures and shows, a spa in partnership with Sothys™, but also more intimate spaces such as the library and internet corner. Comfortable cabins, nearly all with private balcony, are available for families either as triples or as communicating cabins. There is also a games area with Wii™ consoles, children’s menus, and a baby-sitting service. Just as if you were on a private yacht, your time is your own to do as you please.
Fitted with the latest equipment (Kinesis Wall, running machine) and in partnership with the famous Sothys™ brand, the Beauty Centre on L'Austral welcomes you for some unforgettable moments of relaxation and pampering (beauty treatments, hairdresser).
Wheelchairs3 specially adapted wheelchair cabins (Deck 3 = Superior cabin no. 307, no balcony, Deck 4 = Prestige Cabin no. 407 - with balcony and Deck 5 = Prestige Cabin no 509, with balcony) and lifts to all decks/areas.
Details
Length: 142 metres. Passenger Capacity: 264 (200 in Antarctica). Built: 2011
Please click the following links to read more about Ponant and the other Ponant cruise ships.
Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
Includes
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cabin accommodation,
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full board,
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The Open Bar: from boarding and throughout the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wines, beer, champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served freely and at any time of the day. Some premium alcoholic beverages listed on the menu are not included in the Open Bar.
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free 24/7 Wi-Fi Internet access,
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an activity at each stopover to be chosen from a selection: the final program will be communicated approximately two months before the cruise departure,
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access to all common areas.