Viana do Castelo & Santa Luzia

INCLUDED

5h00

Visit one of the greatest treasures of northern Portugal: Viana do Castelo.

After a 1-hour and 20-minute drive, your first stop will be to the top of the Church Santa Luzia, dating from the 19th century, which offers a magnificent panoramic view of Viana do Castelo. Enjoy some free time to take photos and buy souvenirs.

Then, drive back to town. Founded in the 13th century, it developed during the Manueline and Renaissance periods and saw a boom in Baroque building constructions throughout the 18th century. And throughout all this history, it has always been connected with the sea, and has a considerable fishing community to this day.

This tour will take you to Viana’s main monuments, such as the Old Town Hall, Parish Church, the charming Republica Square, and many of its palaces and private residences of note.

Viana is also known for its colourful folk festivals and unique typical costumes and jewellery; as such, you will be able to visit the Local Costumes and Jewellery Museum. Enjoy some free time before returning to ship.

This tour involves about 1.2 mile (2 km) of walking on uneven and flat surfaces, with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate clothing is recommended to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. In case of religious services, this will be an outside visit only.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Santiago de Compostela

INCLUDED

8h00

From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to Santiago de Compostela (a one-hour and fifteen-minute drive), one of the most important cities in Europe and the third most important place in the world for Christian pilgrimage.

Your tour will start by the Obradoiro Square where your guide will present you all the details of this square during a walking tour. You can admire the Cathedral, the Town hall, the Pazo (Palace of Saint Jerome) and the Hostal dos Reis Católicos. This former hospital was built in 1501 by orders of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile to welcome unwell pilgrims and replace the old hospital which was then on the current Plaza de la Azabachería. Today it continues to fulfil its function of hosting service to the traveller, although it has a luxurious character. Every day, a dozen pilgrims carrying their compostela (pilgrim certificate) are allowed in the kitchen to graciously receive a meal.

Your guide will give you a complete description of the outside of the Cathedral and will show you the Jubilee Door which is only opened for the pardons of each Jubilee Year.

Then, you will have some time at leisure to walk along the historical streets before meeting your guide at the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, for the lunch served in one of the dining rooms of the hotel.

Before boarding your coach to Vigo, you will enjoy an inside visit of the Cathedral with the tomb of Saint James, maybe the most important piece of the Cathedral, the “Portico da Gloria” whose lintels were laid in place in 1188, one of the capital works of mediaeval sculpture. You will also visit the museum of the Cathedral.

This tour involves 2 km (1,5 mile) of walking on cobblestone streets with many steps during the Cathedral visit. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). The lunch is included in your tour.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Vigo & Baiona

INCLUDED

4h00

From the pier, you will board your coach and start your scenic drive towards Monte Castro. Once arriving, you will enjoy a panoramic view on Vigo, its bay and its harbour.

Jules Verne wrote that Captain Nemo’s best kept secret was in Vigo. Did you know that this is where the Nautilus submarine came to stock up on gold? In Vigo’s estuary there are dozens of sunken ships loaded with the gold from the Americas, treasures that have not yet come to light.

Back to coach, you will drive to Baiona, one of the most important and characteristic fishing villages on the Galicia coast.

Here you will visit Parador Monterreal, an imposing 16th-century building that has been converted into a hotel. The fortress of Monterreal is highly evocative of times long past, with its walls (dating from the 11th to 17th centuries) and its mediaeval towers: the Reloxo, the Tenaza and the Príncipe Cativo. The walls are ideal for a pleasant stroll around the area, known as the Monte Boi Promenade, offering perfect views over the whole of Galicia’s southern coastline, and of course the town of Baiona.

Then, you will discover old centre of the village with the remains of its ancient walls. A walk through the historic centre reveals impressive pazos (manor houses), such as that of the Correa family (from the 18thcentury), now the town hall with a tall tower, coats of arms and beautiful balconies; the Casa Ceta (or Casa do Perdón) from the 14th century; the Casa Mendoza (or Casa do Deán) with arched walkways beneath (from the 18thcentury) and a superb Baroque façade, or the Casa de Salgado (from the 17thcentury).

Finally, re-board your coach and start your return drive to Vigo, a 45-minute drive.

This tour involves 2 km (1,5 mile) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela

INCLUDED

8h00

From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to your starting point of your hiking on the way of cross, 45-minute drive.

You will walk on the Spanish part of the way of cross borrowed by the pilgrims, to this day, to join Santiago de Compostela.

Santiago de Compostela is one of the most important cities in Europe and the third most important place in the world for Christian pilgrimage.

Once arriving, you will discover the Obradoiro Square where your guide will present you all the details of this square during a walking tour. You can admire the Cathedral, the Town hall, the Pazo (Palace of Saint Jerome) and the Hostal dos Reis Católicos. This former hospital was built in 1501 by orders of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile to welcome unwell pilgrims and replace the old hospital which was then on the current Plaza de la Azabachería. Today it continues to fulfil its function of hosting service to the traveller, although it has a luxurious character. Every day, a dozen pilgrims carrying their compostela (pilgrim certificate) are allowed in the kitchen to graciously receive a meal.

Your guide will give you a complete description of the outside of the Cathedral and will show you the Jubilee Door which is only opened for the pardons of each Jubilee Year.

Then, you will have some time at leisure to walk along the historical streets before meeting your guide at the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, for the lunch served in one of the dining rooms of the hotel.

Continue with an inside visit of the Cathedral with the tomb of Saint James, maybe the most important piece of the Cathedral, the “Portico da Gloria” whose lintels were laid in place in 1188, one of the capital works of mediaeval sculpture. You will also visit the museum of the Cathedral.

Finally, reboard your coach to join your ship, a one-hour and fifteen-minute drive.

This tour involves active walking on uneven grounds and cobblestone streets with many steps during the Cathedral visit. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). The lunch is included in your tour.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum

INCLUDED

5h00

Bilbao is a constantly evolving city and a dynamic metropolis where traditions and relics of the past live side by side with futuristic buildings recognised throughout the world as icons of modernity. This excursion will allow you to admire both aspects of the economic and cultural capital of the Basque Country.

From the pier, board your coach and proceed to the famous Guggenheim Museum designed by Frank Gehry.

This imposing and unmistakable titanium, granite and glass building reflected in the river houses important works of contemporary art. Designed by American architect Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao building represents a magnificent example of the most groundbreaking 20th-century architecture. With 24,000 m², of which 11,000 are dedicated to exhibition space, the museum represents an architectural landmark of audacious configuration and innovating design, providing a seductive backdrop for the art exhibited in it. Altogether, Gehry's design creates a spectacular sculpture-like structure, perfectly integrated within Bilbao's urban pattern and its surrounding area. It was built between 1993 and 1997 representing the recovery of the banks of the river, redeveloping them for culture and leisure. The finish of the approximately 33,000 extremely thin titanium sheets provides a rough and organic effect, adding to the material's colour changes depending on the weather and light conditions. The other two materials used in the building, limestone and glass, harmonise perfectly, achieving an architectural design with a great visual impact that has now become a real icon of the city throughout the world.

Your tour will continue with a stroll around the old town with its handsome Renaissance, Baroque and Modernist buildings, where you will have the chance to admire the façade of the Cathedral of Santiago, example of Gothic architecture, and the elegant Plaza Nueva, with its distinctive porticoes.

After the tour, you will be transferred back to your awaiting ship.

This tour involves approximately 1.5 km (1 mile) of walking on flat and cobblestones streets with some steps. It is not recommended to guests with limited mobility. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Please note that due to the limited availability of guides, a QR code will be provided, permitting to download the audioguide content on your personal smartphone.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

The Basque coastline

INCLUDED

5h00

Discover the Cantabrian corniche, the fishing port of Bermeo and historic Guernica. From the pier, travel along the colorful Biscayan coastline and see the dramatic views of the Cantabrian corniche.

You will first visit Guernica, once the capital of the Basque Country. The local lords and kings met here in democratic assembly to promise to respect the special laws of Vizcaya. On 26th April 1937, during the Spanish Civil War, the town was razed to the ground by German aircraft, sent by Hitler to support Franco's troops. Discover the Picasso’s Guernika mural reproduction, illustrating the bombing and showing the tragedy of war.

During your visit, see also the petrified trunk of an oak tree that miraculously survived the horrific bombing raid. In the Park of Europe are the famous sculptures, symbolising Gernika-Lumo as a city of peace. See from outside the Casa de Juntas, where the Basque parliament has convened since 1979.

Continue to Bermeo, one of the area's most important fishing ports in the region. This colourful, working town has a large deep-sea fishing fleet that regularly operates off the coast of the Azores and southern Africa. See the popular Basque style architecture reflected in the fishermen's houses.

After the visit, drive to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe for a photostop before returning to the pier in Bilbao.

This tour involves 1 mile (1.5 km) of walking on cobblestone streets in Bermeo and inclines in Guernica. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Gourmet guided walking tour of Bordeaux

INCLUDED

2h30

Departure on foot from the ship berth for a walking tour of the UNESCO classified city of Bordeaux.

Take advantage of this short guided walking tour of Bordeaux city centre to discover some local traditional specialties, like chocolate, canelé cake, cheese, and of course Bordeaux wine.

Walk by the Grand Theatre, built by Victor Louis in 1773, one of the most beautiful in Europe and a pure work of art from the 18th century. Continue through the old Bordeaux district towards the Parlement (parliament) and Bourse (stock-exchange) Squares, before reaching the Cathedral Saint André and City Hall area. End the tour with the luxury boutiques district, called “the triangle” by the locals, and the Quinconces square.

This tour is not suitable for persons with walking difficulties as it includes walking long distances, sometimes on cobblestoned streets. The tour will be on foot only. We recommend you wear flat, comfortable walking shoes. This tour is subject to a minimum of 10 participants.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Gourmet City tour of Bordeaux

INCLUDED

5h00

Once called the “Sleeping Beauty”, Bordeaux has awaken, and is listed as UNESCO World Heritage site since 2007. This distinction recognises the beauty and uniqueness of the architectural heritage style of Bordeaux, which has developed harmoniously over the centuries, while remaining remarkably preserved.

You will discover the Chartrons district where the wine trade was born, the Place des Quinconces, the largest square in Europe with its column commemorating the French Revolution, the Place de la Bourse, jewel of the façade of the quays with the Porte Cailhau. You will then walk from Place Pey Berland where you will find the Town Hall and the Cathedral, to Place de la Comédie and its Grand Théâtre, the Opera of the city in service since the 18th century, before re-embarking on your coach.

Your panoramic tour of Bordeaux will end at La Cité du Vin, an exhibition venue on the theme of wine inaugurated in 2016. By 2018, no less than 450,000 were pushing the door of this unique architecture, which reveals all the wealth and diversity of the world's wine. The Cité du Vin is an original cultural facility dedicated to wine as a cultural, universal and living heritage. It offers a spectacular journey around the world, through the ages, in all cultures. At the end of your visit through the permanent exhibition, a glass of wine will be offered on the 8th floor of the Cité du Vin offering a panoramic view of Bordeaux.

Your excursion will continue on the other side of the street, with a stop at the Halles de Bacalan, the new gourmet market hall of Bordeaux, rehabilitating and modernising the concept of the markets of yesteryear.
The many stalls animated by artisans, traders and producers - selected for their know-how and their complementarity - favour short circuits, 85% of the products on offer are from the area. A tasting of some of these products will be offered during your visit.
The tour will end with the short return trip to the ship.

We recommend you wear flat and comfortable walking shoes. The order of the visits can vary and the internal visit of the Cathedral Saint André is dependent on the celebrations of the day.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Farm of Neuvic, French caviar producer

4h30

Neuvic Estate spreads out over 19 hectares at the confluence of the Isle and Vern rivers, in the town of Neuvic.

It is situated on the land of a farm dating back to before the French Revolution, which left traces and memories that can still be seen and felt on the stone walls. The Isle River is omnipresent, whether crossing the property or bordering its contours with its meanders flanked by imposing chalky cliffs.

Domaine de Neuvic produces and markets the Caviar de Neuvic. It also produces caviar for other brands in accordance with precise specifications. Domaine de Neuvic is first and foremost synonymous with an innovative and stringent quality approach.

In 2013, Domaine de Neuvic received the acclaim of the Association France Initiative, chaired by Mr. Schweitzer, as one of ten "remarkable companies" in France. This title rewards its innovative approach, promotion of its region and recognition of human capital as a criterion for the overall success of the company.

During the visit of the estate, your guide will tell you all the secrets of sturgeons breeding and how to make caviar.

At the end of the visit, you will have the opportunity to taste the estate’s caviar, with a glass of sparkling wine!

We recommend you wear flat, comfortable walking shoes. This tour involves 1 ½ hour transfer each way.

Price range: Find out more

€€: the excursion price is between €50 and €100.

The price of the excursion will be available approximately two months prior to the cruise departure.

The complete programme of excursions, including up-to-date prices, will be provided with the Travel book that you will receive before the departure of your cruise.

PONANT also allows you to pre-book your excursions approximately two months prior to the cruise* departure. Billing is done on board.

*Excluding Expedition cruises.

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Hike at Château Boutinet

INCLUDED

4h15

Walk, wine and tapas food : the perfect combination!

From the pier, board your local coach for a 1 hour-transfer to Château Boutinet.

Upon arrival, meet Nathalie, the owner of Château Boutinet wine estate. For Nathalie, a visit to her estate rhymes with conviviality. This 17th century winery under refurbishment has been brought back to life with the passion of the owners for wine making and hospitality.

You will start with a walk around the property and discover the grape vines and the beautiful surrounding forest. Nathalie and her dog will guide you on foot through the vineyard, explaining her work in the vines, the challenges of a wine producer's life, and organic wine making technics.

After effort comes comfort: Back to the estate, Nathalie will invite you to a homemade tapas tasting sampling some of the local delicacies paired with 3 wines from the estate.

This excursion involves walking approximately 1,86 miles (3 km) on uneven ground and steps. We recommend you wear hiking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Château La Dauphine: sustainability & wine

INCLUDED

3h00

Château La Dauphine: sustainability & wine

Close to Saint Emilion, Château de La Dauphine is a gem, an elegant blend between history and green modernity. Their remarkable wine tourism experiences were recently acknowledged with several gold awards: in 2014 for the Architecture & Landscape category, in 2016 for the food category, in 2018 for Sustainable Wine Tourism Practices and in 2020 for the Innovative Wine Tourism Experiences category. Château de La Dauphine was also 2020 International winner of the contest Best of Wine Tourism.

After a 45 minute-transfer, start a “green tour” with your guide. During this visit you will discover the property’s ethical and environmental initiatives: work in the vineyard, the beehives, biodynamic workshop, aquaponics, the permaculture vegetable garden and the scented garden.

Then, enjoy a delicious tasting of the estate production such as honey, Merlot jelly and three wines.

This excursion involves walking on uneven ground and steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Dune of Pilat

INCLUDED

4h30

From the pier, board your local coach, drive West of Bordeaux and cross the Landes de Gascogne forest before arriving in the Arcachon Bay region, a resort famous for its weather and oyster culture. A fragrant oasis surrounded by an immense forest of pine trees; a subdued ocean which nestles up against the wild sand-dunes; a long wreath of fine golden sand. This is Arcachon Bay with clean waters constantly renewed by the tide, and flights of thousand of migratory birds.

Here you will stop in Le Pyla to climb the highest sand dune in Europe with 110 metres height. A wooden stairs allows an easier climbing of the first half. From the top, you will discover a fantastic view over the entire Arcachon Bay in the North, over the Ocean in the West, and over the never ending Landes pine tree forest in the East.

Then, you will go to a nearby oyster farm port where you will visit a typical oyster farm. The owner will explain all about the oyster culture and will invite you to taste oysters with rye bread & butter, and dry white wine.

This excursion involves walking on uneven ground and sand. Participants must be able to climb the 200 steps of the dune. We recommend you wear hiking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Battle of Normandy in Hedgerows hell

INCLUDED

5h00

Carentan was one of the main strategic point during the landing. Today, discover its strategical sites, and visit a museum dedicated to the infamous Battle of the hedgerows which took place in June and July 1944.

First reach the Normandy Victory Museum, located in Catz on an old American airfield, runway A10. The museum is organized in 17 chronological scenes, offering the visitor a real interactive experience at the heart of the Normandy countryside. Made up of fifteen vintage vehicles, hundreds of mannequins in uniform and several thousand genuine objects, the collections presented are valued by a realistic background depicting the hell of the war.

The hyperrealist dioramas will make you relive on D-Day, and especially the "Battle of the hedgerows", operation Cobra and the counterattack of Mortain – unknown strands of the battle of Normandy. The Normandy Victory Museum also intends to emphasize the role played by women during the conflict, especially within the various auxiliary corps of the American forces.

Then, board your coach for a panoramic tour of the strategical highlights around Carentan. See the “Dead Man’s Corner”, the cursed drop zone of Angoville-au-Plain and learn how the link between the landing beaches of Omaha Beach and Utah Beach was established to form a single front, thanks to the taking of Carentan by the 101st Airborne Division.

Drive back to Cherbourg.

This excursion involves walking on mostly flat ground. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Sainte Mère church & Utah Beach

INCLUDED

4h00

From the pier, leave Cherbourg and drive to Sainte-Mère church, located in the middle of the traditional Normandy livestock breeding area. This town brutally entered the news headlines in 1944 when the US 82nd Airborne Division troops landed here and liberated Sainte-Mère church on June 6th.

Here, follow your guide for a walking tour of the village. Just in front of the Town Hall, you will see Milestone Zero symbolizing the start of the Road to Freedom. Inside the church, a modern stained-glass window features the American parachute drop.

The tour continues with a scenic drive to Sainte-Marie-du-Mont. Take this opportunity to learn more about the war, passing by Utah Beach and Crisbecq Battery before you return directly to Cherbourg.

This excursion involves walking on mostly flat ground. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Photostops will be made during the scenic drive. Crisbecq Battery entrance fees are not included.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Normandy traditions

INCLUDED

4h30

Foodies can celebrate on this lovely half-day tour that takes you into the countryside to two epicurean destinations. Begin with a motorcoach ride through this lush region dotted with tiny villages and fragrant apple orchards.

Your first destination is the village of Sortosville-en-Beaumont, where you will find La Maison du Biscuit, a renowned bakery, family-owned for five generations. During the free time, visit at your convenience the tearoom where hot beverages accompany a variety of baked specialties and peruse the gourmet shop, brimming with nibbles and delights.

Re-board the motorcoach and continue on to Théo Capelle traditional distillery specializing in Calvados, an apple brandy. Visit the distillery to learn how an apple goes from tree to glass. Your guide will explain the process as you tour the facility and then invite you to a tasting of the Calvados, Pommeau and ciders made on the premises.

Relax during the ride back to port.

We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

TRAM TOUR OF LISBON

Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between the airport and your port of embarkation.

Lisbon

Meet at Lisbon airport arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local English-speaking representative off the flight selected by PONANT.

You will depart the airport by coach and be taken to a local restaurant where your lunch will be served.

This afternoon, you will discover the city of Lisbon during a private tram tour.

First, you will reach the Belém district, also known as the district of the Great Discoveries for its many monuments dating from the 16th-century. You will make a stop in front of the magnificent Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Then, you will walk until the tram stop departure from Belem. During about 1 hour, enjoy the best way to get across town on board an icon of Lisbon. The small yellow or red trams beg to be photographed as they travel through the prettiest historic and residential quarters of the city.
Opening the windows and letting the parade of buildings covered in azulejos pass you by, glimpsing the sudden ascents and marvelling at the winding route between hills, miradors and squares that take your breath away, is one of the things you have to do while in the city.

Travel in the past while your private tram run through the tiny streets and the main arteries and catch a very good perspective of Lisbon until the final stop at Portas do Sol where the viewpoint is one of the best views of the town. From there, at the top of Alfama district, you will discover little by little the oldest and most traditional neighbourhood in Lisbon, with cobbled lanes and alleys and steeps, gruelling inclines. Enjoy the view, atmosphere, and authentic spirit of the oldest side of the capital.

After 30-minute walk, you will be guided until the pier to embark on board your ship.

Your programme includes:

Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
Lunch with beverage package (mineral water + 1 soft drink or 1 local glass of wine + 1 coffee or tea).
Services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

Tips for the driver and the guide.
Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.

Please note:

This tour involves approximately a 45-minute walk on uneven streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
This tour is not recommended to the guest on wheelchair and with walking difficulties.
This tour is limited to 24 participants because the tram has a capacity of 24 guests maximum. On request, we could ask for second tram depending on the tram availabilities.

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents. In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.

Total : 240 €

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

DISCOVER MAFRA & LISBON (2 NIGHTS)

(2 nuits)

Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.

Day 1 – Lisbon

Meet at Lisbon Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).

Transfer from Lisbon Airport to Altis Avenida 5* Hotel in the city center.

Check-in from 16:00.

End of the day and diner are at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2 - Lisbon

Breakfast.

This morning, you will head towards Mafra where you will discover the Palace (UNESCO site) with its Monastery and its Church, which are some of the most imposing buildings in Portugal.

Then, you will have lunch in a local restaurant.

The afternoon, you will enjoy a wine tasting in a local vineyard.

Back to your hotel (around a 30-minute drive), enjoy some free time to relax.

Dinner at leisure.

Day 3 – Lisbon

After breakfast, you will be driven to the Belem, also known as the district of the Great Discoveries for its many monuments dating from the 16th-century. You will make a stop in front of the magnificent Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Then, you will walk until the tram stop departure from Belem. During about 1 hour, enjoy the best way to get across town on board an icon of Lisbon. The small yellow or red trams beg to be photographed as they travel through the prettiest historic and residential quarters of the city.
Opening the windows and letting the parade of buildings covered in azulejos pass you by, glimpsing the sudden ascents and marvelling at the winding route between hills, miradors and squares that take your breath away, is one of the things you have to do while in the city.

Travel in the past while your private tram run through the tiny streets and the main arteries and catch a very good perspective of Lisbon until the final stop at Miradouro de Santa Luzia where the viewpoint is one of the best views of the town. From there, at the top of Alfama district, you will discover little by little the oldest and most traditional neighbourhood in Lisbon, with cobbled lanes and alleys and steeps, gruelling inclines. Enjoy the view, atmosphere, and authentic spirit of the oldest side of the capital.

After a 45-minute walk, you will be driver until a local restaurant for lunch.

You will then be transferred to the pier of Lisbon to embark on board your ship.

Your hotel:

In the heart of Lisbon, on Liberty Avenue and near Chiado, the Altis Avenida hotel welcomes you in a historic building with Portuguese architecture and design of the 40s. There is a sophisticated contemporary atmosphere. Its cozy rooms in retro style, its bar-restaurant overlooking the city and its location will seduce you.

Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.

Your programme includes:

2-night accommodation in Standard room at Altis Avenida Hotel 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
Meals as mentioned in the programme.
Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
The services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

Dinners.
Personal expenses.
Optional activities.
Visa if necessary.
Tips for the driver and local guide.
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Early check-in and late check-out.

Please note:

It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
This tour involves approximately a 45-minute walk on uneven streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
This tour is not recommended to the guest on wheelchair and with walking difficulties.
This tour is limited to 24 participants because the tram has a capacity of 24 guests maximum.
Official check-in at 16:00.
Official check-out at 12:00.

Contact of your hotel:

Hotel Altis Avenida
Avenida da Liberdade
Lisbon - Portugal
Telephone : +351 21 044 0000

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

Total : 1,199 €

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

Viana do Castelo & Santa Luzia

INCLUDED

5h00

Visit one of the greatest treasures of northern Portugal: Viana do Castelo.

After a 1-hour and 20-minute drive, your first stop will be to the top of the Church Santa Luzia, dating from the 19th century, which offers a magnificent panoramic view of Viana do Castelo. Enjoy some free time to take photos and buy souvenirs.

Then, drive back to town. Founded in the 13th century, it developed during the Manueline and Renaissance periods and saw a boom in Baroque building constructions throughout the 18th century. And throughout all this history, it has always been connected with the sea, and has a considerable fishing community to this day.

This tour will take you to Viana’s main monuments, such as the Old Town Hall, Parish Church, the charming Republica Square, and many of its palaces and private residences of note.

Viana is also known for its colourful folk festivals and unique typical costumes and jewellery; as such, you will be able to visit the Local Costumes and Jewellery Museum. Enjoy some free time before returning to ship.

This tour involves about 1.2 mile (2 km) of walking on uneven and flat surfaces, with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate clothing is recommended to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. In case of religious services, this will be an outside visit only.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Santiago de Compostela

INCLUDED

8h00

From the pier, you will board your coach and drive to Santiago de Compostela (a one-hour and fifteen-minute drive), one of the most important cities in Europe and the third most important place in the world for Christian pilgrimage.

Your tour will start by the Obradoiro Square where your guide will present you all the details of this square during a walking tour. You can admire the Cathedral, the Town hall, the Pazo (Palace of Saint Jerome) and the Hostal dos Reis Católicos. This former hospital was built in 1501 by orders of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile to welcome unwell pilgrims and replace the old hospital which was then on the current Plaza de la Azabachería. Today it continues to fulfil its function of hosting service to the traveller, although it has a luxurious character. Every day, a dozen pilgrims carrying their compostela (pilgrim certificate) are allowed in the kitchen to graciously receive a meal.

Your guide will give you a complete description of the outside of the Cathedral and will show you the Jubilee Door which is only opened for the pardons of each Jubilee Year.

Then, you will have some time at leisure to walk along the historical streets before meeting your guide at the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, for the lunch served in one of the dining rooms of the hotel.

Before boarding your coach to Vigo, you will enjoy an inside visit of the Cathedral with the tomb of Saint James, maybe the most important piece of the Cathedral, the “Portico da Gloria” whose lintels were laid in place in 1188, one of the capital works of mediaeval sculpture. You will also visit the museum of the Cathedral.

This tour involves 2 km (1,5 mile) of walking on cobblestone streets with many steps during the Cathedral visit. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). The lunch is included in your tour.

Included

Subject to availability, rate per passenger.

Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.

Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Vigo & Baiona

INCLUDED

4h00

From the pier, you will board your coach and start your scenic drive towards Monte Castro. Once arriving, you will enjoy a panoramic view on Vigo, its bay and its harbour.

Jules Verne wrote that Captain Nemo’s best kept secret was in Vigo. Did you know that this is where the Nautilus submarine came to stock up on gold? In Vigo’s estuary there are dozens of sunken ships loaded with the gold from the Americas, treasures that have not yet come to light.

Back to coach, you will drive to Baiona, one of the most important and characteristic fishing villages on the Galicia coast.

Here you will visit Parador Monterreal, an imposing 16th-century building that has been converted into a hotel. The fortress of Monterreal is highly evocative of times long past, with its walls (dating from the 11th to 17th centuries) and its mediaeval towers: the Reloxo, the Tenaza and the Príncipe Cativo. The walls are ideal for a pleasant stroll around the area, known as the Monte Boi Promenade, offering perfect views over the whole of Galicia’s southern coastline, and of course the town of Baiona.

Then, you will discover old centre of the village with the remains of its ancient walls. A walk through the historic centre reveals impressive pazos (manor houses), such as that of the Correa family (from the 18thcentury), now the town hall with a tall tower, coats of arms and beautiful balconies; the Casa Ceta (or Casa do Perdón) from the 14th century; the Casa Mendoza (or Casa do Deán) with arched walkways beneath (from the 18thcentury) and a superb Baroque façade, or the Casa de Salgado (from the 17thcentury).

Finally, re-board your coach and start your return drive to Vigo, a 45-minute drive.

This tour involves 2 km (1,5 mile) of walking on cobblestone streets with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.