Designed as an ode to a radiant and little-known Mediterranean, this cruise under sail aboard Le Ponant will awaken your senses. In the Peloponnese, crystal-clear waters surround small, sunny ports like Spetses, and colourful villages nestle amongst pine forests on the hillsides. Time stretches on as you enjoy leisurely strolls and gourmet delights, lulled by the lapping of the waves in hidden coves and the scent of jasmine, olive trees and cypresses. Carried by the wind, you will sail up the Ionian Sea to discover the Venetian heritage of the charming ports of Fiskardo and Paxos. Finally, the Adriatic will beckon: the stunning Bay of Kotor will bring this adventure away from the frenzy of the world to a close.
Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior designed by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a highly distinctive character. As if you were on your very own yacht, savour the freedom of living in the moment, being fully present.
- An escapade between the Aegean, Ionian and Adriatic Seas aboard Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht, to rediscover the feeling of shared joy and reconnect with what is essential as the wind carries you along.
- Discover the local Greek and Croatian riches and traditions through authentic moments and cultural and gastronomic encounters.
- Explore the deep and secret soul of the eastern part of the Mediterranean via ports of call off the beaten path, revisited to offer you exclusive included activities.
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.
Near Athens, Lavrion is a peaceful port welcoming boats from around the world. The town has been known since ancient times for the silver-producing mines of Lavrion, which were major contributors to the wealth of Athens and to the Greek economy in the 20th century. Weather permitting, take a stroll through the town and discover the many vestiges of this industry that flourished until the 1980s: old Neoclassical-style constructions, industrial buildings, and worker houses. While at this port of call, also take the time to discover Athens and its acropolis, or Cape Sounion on which stands the magnificent temple of Poseidon.
Spetses, “the jasmine island”, is an unspoiled paradise and the favourite holiday spot of Athenian high society. The shaded outdoor dining areas of the restaurants serving local cuisine stand alongside beautiful boutiques. Away from the hustle and bustle of the world, stroll or cycle around the small port lined with the beautiful Neoclassical homes of shipowners and enjoy the pleasantness of the moment. There is a distinct dolce vita atmosphere in the air. From hidden coves to beaches of fine sand, this island is brimming with charm. The hiking trails through the pine forest also promise beautiful panoramas.
The picturesque port of Pylos is located in the south west of the Peloponnese. Backed against the lush green hills of Messenia, it looks out onto the Navarino Bay. You can admire the gorgeous view as you walk uptown amid pink oleanders that cascade over the jetty. A stone’s throw away, the historical centre’s winding streets will plunge you into a maze of houses with whitewashed facades and terracotta roof-tiles. On the attractive main beach, you will be able to relax in the shade of the age-old plane trees and taste the delicious local biscuits made of sesame and honey.
You will discover Fiskardo in the north-east of Kefalonia, a refined, flowery island, a little-known destination in the Ionian Islands. The colourful houses along the seafront present an astonishing architecture with Italian influences. As you step further out on the peer, you will glimpse the coast of Ithaca, the legendary land of King Ulysses. Take the time to sit at an outdoor terrace along the water’s edge, under the shade of the awnings: they offer a delightful, relaxing setting. Enjoy the spectacle of the boats moored in the harbour as you savour small meat pies called kreatopita, a Greek speciality.
Near the pretty port of Gaios, discover Paxos, a lush hideaway resting in the Ionian Sea. The island is planted with cypresses and ancient olive trees that once provided oil to Venice. The architecture is marked by a distinct Venetian influence. Succumb to the charms of this island where nature, ever-present, forms beautiful landscapes. From mountainous terrain to lovely fishing villages and hidden coves, Paxos reveals its authenticity to those willing to discover it.
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.
Aboard Le Ponant, you will cleave through the foam and enter the sumptuous Bay of Kotor, as the sea air leaves you with an unequalled feeling of exhilaration. The views, from your majestic yacht, are on a par with the spectacle that unfolds before your eyes. While you sail through the successive parts of this magnificent bay, the monumental limestone mountains are reflected in the deep-green waters. You may well feel a sense of humility before the natural splendour of the site. You will approach Sveti Dorde (Saint George), a charming Benedictine monastery sat on a rocky islet, before heading back out to sea.
Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You will perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon. The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile gate, you will be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.
Itineraries are subject to change.
Le Ponant
| Length: | 88 metres |
|---|---|
| Built/rebuilt | 1991/2020 |
| Cabins | 16 |
| Crew | 34 |
Le Ponant becomes world’s first sailing yacht to obtain Relais & Châteaux label
After four years of regular ad hoc partnerships, PONANT and Relais & Châteaux are strengthening their ties. The three-master joins the large family of Relais & Châteaux establishments as a new member. It is the first sailing yacht in history to obtain the label and be included in its catalogue of the finest travel addresses in the world.
In 2019 & 2020 Le Ponant underwent a huge revamp. Her capacity was reduced from 64 to just 32 passengers who will be served by a crew of 34.
Following in the nautical tradition of three-masted sailing ships, Le Ponant will take you on a voyage of discovery. The ship provides intimacy and convivial atmosphere and the refined life on board, the welcoming charm to your cabin, the lounges and the restaurants setting are invitations to relax.
Le Ponant is one of the most majestic sailing vessels in the world. With 16 spacious cabins and suites, one crew member per passenger, a dedicated chef, and authentic and exclusive experiences to be enjoyed at every stop, designed for and with you, the ship redefines the concept of luxury yachting and promises you an extraordinary experience.
In addition to its tasteful and refined design by Jean-Philippe Nuel, it has many innovative and environmentally friendly amenities.
Conserving the environment is one of our priorities. We have therefore chosen to invest in innovations and equipment at the cutting edge of technology, with the aim of achieving the highest standards possible in the sector. Le Ponant is the only yacht in the world with a hybrid propulsion system. This uniquely designed three-masted schooner can rely solely on its sails but also can connect to the electricity network in certain ports to limit its ecological impact.
On board, we have banned the use of plastic in straws, laundry bags, cups and individual food portion packaging. Packaging is collected from our warehouses. Unavoidable plastic waste is sorted and entrusted to resource-recovery companies, who monitor its traceability until its elimination.
Le Ponant is equipped with a complete desalination and wastewater treatment system. This biodegradation process works without the use of chemicals. It provides clean water and meets the highest quality standards.
On board, 60% of packaging is recycled, while the rate elsewhere in the world is only 20%. The rest is 100% traced. We have on-board compactors adapted to each type of waste and are working to optimise their management on land.
Under full sail, gliding over the sea with the wind, you will fall under Le Ponant's spell.
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.
