Superior Stateroom Deck 3
21 m²
3
The Iberian Peninsula and Fortified cities of the Atlantic
Lisbon - Honfleur
Dates:
03/05/2025
to
14/05/2025
days
nights on board
From Lisbon to Honfleur, PONANT invites you aboard Le Boréal for a 12-day cruise, that will take you along the Portuguese, Spanish and French Atlantic coastlines.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. On this cruise, you visit the Carteret lighthouse, a structure over 85 meters high built in 1839, from Cherbourg, set out from Vigo to see the legendary city of Santiago de Compostela, the world’s third most important Christian pilgrimage site, and admire iconic works of art at the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.The diversity of xpériences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
From the port of Leixões, you will visit Porto. The capital of Portugal's northern region, this “city of granite” is renowned for its wine but also for its remarkable historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Your journey will continue to Galicia and the city of Vigo, the biggest fishing port in Spain. Not far from here, Santiago de Compostela awaits you. This unmissable pilgrimage destination is home to a number of monuments from the Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque periods, testimony to its illustrious past.
Le Boréal will then head for the capital of the Spanish Basque Country, Bilbao. Between daring architecture and the continuation of its ancestral traditions, you will be able to witness the city’s unique energy.
After a special moment in the wine capital of the world, Bordeaux, you visit the beautiful fortified town of Talmont-sur-Gironde before saluting the Cordouan lighthouse, a guardian of light designed to guide sailors at the entrance to the Gironde estuary.
You then head for the Quiberon peninsula. Here, you will discover a dreamy setting between two seas with breathtaking scenery: on one side, the Atlantic Ocean and its wild coastline; on the other, Quiberon Bay and its sandy beaches.
Le Boréal then sails to Douarnenez, Finistère's most westerly town. The striking wild coastline and sandy beaches make a magnificent natural backdrop to the ocean's crystal waters.
After stopping off in Cherbourg, you head for the pretty Normandy port of Honfleur, where you disembark.
Ref : BO030525
Your itinerary
A cruise along the Atlantic coastlines of three countries: Portugal, Spain and France. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the historic centre of Porto from Leixoes; Santiago de Compostela (Old Town) from Vigo; the...
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Your trip in detail
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE LYRIAL
LE LAPÉROUSE
LE CHAMPLAIN
LE SOLÉAL
01/11/2024 to the 16/11/2024
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Three ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A cruise along the Atlantic coastlines of three countries: Portugal, Spain and France.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the historic centre of Porto from Leixoes; Santiago de Compostela (Old Town) from Vigo; the Port of the Moon in Bordeaux, the tower of Belem and the monastery of Jeronimos in Lisbon (embarkation port).
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- First-time stopovers in Brittany on the Quiberon peninsula and in Douarnenez.
- Variety of landscapes and the relief of the Atlantic coast from the sea.
- An excursion in Galicia to discover Santiago de Compostela.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
3 May 2025 - Lisbon
Embarkation 03/05/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 03/05/2025 at 18:00
Portugal’s capital city located on the banks of the Tagus, only a few kilometres from the Atlantic coast, is a city of exceptionally rich cultural diversity. At the mouth of the river harbour, impose two UNESCO World Heritage monuments, Jeronimos monastery and Belem tower. The Alfama hillside is also worth visiting: known for its fado bars and its Moorish streets, this district is the oldest one of the city and one of the most typical. Not far from there, Chiado’s elegant streets are home to big fashion labels and are an invitation to a bit of of luxury shopping.
4 May 2025 - Leixões - Porto
Arrival 04/05/2025 midday
Departure 04/05/2025 early evening
Located at the mouth of the Douro River, the port of Leixões lies less than 10 kilometres from Porto. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic centre of Porto is worth a visit for its famous Ribeira district, the metallic silhouette of the Dom-Luis bridge looming over its ancient houses, its richly decorated Baroque churches and its national Soares dos Reis museum. The São Bento station is also interesting for its typically Portuguese decoration, using Azulejos, blue square ceramic tiles decorated with geometric patterns or figurative scenes.
5 May 2025 - Vigo – Santiago de Compostela
Arrival 05/05/2025 early morning
Departure 05/05/2025 early evening
Nestling on the Atlantic coast, in the south of Galicia, the former fishing port of Vigo is now the region’s largest municipality. Its old town, more commonly known as O Berbés, will unveil its many historical monuments and the unusual architectural style of its homes. Off the coast, the Cíes Islands, declared a Nature Reserve and located in the Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park, offer truly splendid landscapes and exceptional biodiversity. Further north, make sure you visit Santiago de Compostela, which welcomes many pilgrims from all over the world every year. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its historical centre has significant architectural heritage.
6 May 2025 - At sea
Arrival 06/05/2025
Departure 06/05/2025
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.
7 May 2025 - Bilbao
Arrival 07/05/2025 early morning
Departure 07/05/2025 evening
Bilbao, capital of the Spanish Basque country, is one of the most avant-garde cities in Europe. Its architectural audacity as well as its ancient built heritage will take you on a journey between traditions and innovations. An unusual cable car will allow you to reach the magnificent Guggenheim Museum, a unique construction of stone, glass and titanium, designed by the architect Frank Gehry and home to a collection of modern art and contemporary monumental sculpture. The narrow streets of the old city and the unmissable Ensanche district are also worthy of a visit, as is the Vizcaya bridge, the world’s first ever transporter bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8 May 2025 - At sea
Arrival 08/05/2025
Departure 08/05/2025
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.
9 May 2025 - Bordeaux
Arrival 09/05/2025
Departure 09/05/2025
Bordeaux stretches along the banks of the Garonne river, in South-West France. Its rich wine tradition makes it the world capital of wine. Let yourself be carried away by the history of the Port de la Lune, made a UNESCO World Heritage site for its prestigious classical architecture. On the famous Place de la Bourse, the past and the present unite: here you can observe the majestic old buildings reflected in the contemporary Miroir d’eau creation.
10 May 2025 - Talmont-sur-Gironde
Arrival 10/05/2025 late morning
Departure 10/05/2025 late afternoon
You will sail along the coast to discover the remarkable Meschers caves, natural cavities carved into the chalk cliffs that loom over the Gironde estuary. Enlarged by man in the 19th century, they became troglodyte dwellings, some of which are still inhabited today. Punctuating the coastline of the Charente region with their poetic presence, the carrelets, fragile-looking huts on stilts fitted with a square fishing net, can be seen along the Saintonge coastline. The beautiful town of Talmont-sur-Gironde is to be found at the heart of the fortified city founded by Edward I, King of England and Duke of Aquitaine. The Sainte-Radegonde church, a jewel of Romanesque art, dating from the 12th century, looms majestically over the estuary.
11 May 2025 - Quiberon
Arrival 11/05/2025 early morning
Departure 11/05/2025 early evening
Welcome to the Quiberon peninsula in the Morbihan, Brittany's wild and contrasting landscape. On the Atlantic Ocean side, you will see stretches of wild coastline with rugged, windswept cliffs, and on the Quiberon Bay side, long sandy beaches overlooking emerald waters. Port Haliguen, a ten-minute walk from Quiberon, is a marina that has retained all its charms of yesteryear.
12 May 2025 - Douarnenez
Arrival 12/05/2025 early morning
Departure 12/05/2025 midday
Nestling in the hollow of a pretty bay in the Finistère department which smells nicely of sea spray, Douarnenez bears both its Breton identity and its reputation as an important sardine port as a source of pride. The surrounding grandiose nature, with its wild coastlines and fine sandy beaches, offers a fine setting with the crystal-clear waters of the ocean. You’ll enjoy a walk to take in the atmosphere of its lively quays and discover fishermen's houses of picturesque charm as you stroll through its small streets. You’ll then visit Locronan, listed as one of “the most beautiful villages of France". The granite city, with its fine Renaissance-era houses, found fame as a setting for the films Tess, by Roman Polanski, and Chouans!, by Philippe de Broca.
13 May 2025 - Cherbourg
Arrival 13/05/2025 early morning
Departure 13/05/2025 midday
Lying at the tip of the Cotentin peninsula, between the Channel and the bocage, Cherbourg is the figurehead of a wild and secret region, dear to the heart of Jacques Prévert. The installation of La Cité de la Mer maritime museum in 2002, within the former transatlantic terminal, rejuvenated the maritime and military port. You’ll enjoy the ambiance of this charming town, with its shale façades, which was celebrated by Jacques Demy in The Umbrellas of Cherbourg. Your exploration will also bring you to the foot of the Château de Vauville, famed for its extraordinary Botanical Gardens. Like an oasis, this small southern paradise is home to more than 1,000 tropical species collected by the family of Éric Pellerin, botanist and perfumer since 1948.
14 May 2025 - Honfleur
Arrival 14/05/2025
Disembarkation 14/05/2025 at 08:00
A treasure of the Côte Fleurie, Honfleur is located on the edge of la Crique de Rouen in Normandy. You will no doubt admire the historical ships moored in its old port. With its tall, slate-covered houses, the quays provide a great setting for a very nice walk. In the streets behind the harbour, you will see many timber houses. These picturesque places were the cradle of several pre-impressionist painters. You can see their works in the Eugène Boudin museum. Exhibited works represent scenes of medieval streets and the coastline as it used to be, as illustrated by the Butin beach and its lush green hillsides.
Viana do Castelo & Santa Luzia
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Santiago de Compostela
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
According to availability, price per passenger.Vigo & Baiona
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 18th century), 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 18th century) and a superb Baroque façade, or the Casa de Salgado (from the 17th century).
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
According to availability, price per passenger.Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela
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
According to availability, price per passenger.Pazo de Rubianes & wine tasting
From the pier, you will board your coach and start your 1-hour drive to Villagarcia.
Once arriving, you will visit the Pazo de Rubianes. Located in the Arousa estuary (Pontevedra), it is one of the three official lordships in Spain. The main building was constructed in the 15th century. In the 18th century the tower was pulled down, and a summer residence with rectangular plan was created. The gardens, with more than 11 hectares, have remarkable eucalyptus trees with perimeters of 12 meters, olives and magnolias. It has geometrical flowerbeds of French style, with sequoias and camphors. Its grandiose magnolias Magnolia grandiflora L. have been included in the Galician Monumental Tree Catalogue.
With an area of 25 hectares, the vineyard of Pazo de Rubianes is the largest in the region of Salnés. Don Gonzalo Ozores of Urcola - eighteenth Lord of the House of Rubianes and Marqués de Aranda- and his wife, Mrs. Paloma Rey Fernández Latorre, were responsible for the recovery of ancient vineyards and the new vineyard project that took place between the years 1997 and 1999. Don Gonzalo, great lover of his estate, had a great devotion for his vineyards and planned to produce wine on the property again. But he could not fulfil his dream before his death in 2006. His wife, Mrs. Paloma, picked up the baton in order to realise the desire of her husband. In 2009, ten years after the recovery of the vineyards, the first wine of this new winery of Pazo de Rubianes was bottled. Built in the 15th century, the cellar smells now like wine again, and allows to preserve the quality of each vintage. Only slightly less than 30 % of the grapes produced in the vineyards of Pazo de Rubianes are chosen to give rise to these exclusive wines with which each year comes the new crop of Pazo de Rubianes and García Caamaño wines.
After enjoying a walking tour on the gardens and the cellar, you will enjoy a tasting of this exclusive wine accompanied with tapas.
Finally, re-board your coach and start your return drive to Vigo, a 1-hour drive.
- This tour involves 2 km (1,5 mile) of walking on uneven paths with mud sometimes and some steps to enter the manor at Rubianes. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The tasting is included on your tour. The tour of the gardens will be guided by the Botanical experts of the estate and translate in French by your guide. This tour is limited to 50 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
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.
Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum
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
According to availability, price per passenger.The Basque coastline
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Traditions & wine
From the pier, board your local coach for a scenic drive to Bermeo.
On your way, discover the rural beauty of the Basque country. As you travel through countryside dotted with secluded farmhouses and along the Biscayan Coast with its steep cliffs and isolated beaches, listen to your guide explanation.
Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walk of Bermeo, a charming city with a beautiful fishing harbour, which was the provincial capital until 1602. In the old quarter, be impressed by the Gothic Church of San Francisco, the 18th-century town hall and the neoclassical Church of Santa Maria.
Continue your journey through countryside and reach you next destination: Cellar Gorka Izaguirre. This local winery production owes its success to the passion of the team and of course the local grapes, Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Zerratia. These delicate varieties are descendents of Basque farm houses, grown in the Northeast Atlantic. The bunches are small and concentrated which keeps them full of personality; the result is a wine with a unique identity. The coastal air, steep hilly slopes, southeast morning sun, well-aerated plots green lush hillsides impart a unique freshness and character to their wines.
After a visit of the winery, enjoy a wine tasting moment with local tapas.
Then, get back to the coach for the return trip to the pier.
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This excursion involves walking 0,9 mile (1,5 km) on uneven grounds, cobblestones, and some inclines. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
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.
Gourmet guided walking tour of Bordeaux
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Gourmet City tour of Bordeaux
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Farm of Neuvic, French caviar producer
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!
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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.
Hike at Château Boutinet
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.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.
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This excursion involves walking on uneven ground and steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Dune of Pilat
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Visit of Château Smith Haut Lafitte
Following a customized tour of the estate, you will visit the owners' private cellar, taste the estate's first wine, both white and red, and the young vines in red.
Today, you will be invited to a special confidential wine tasting at Pessac-Léognan Classified Great Growth Château Smith Haut Lafitte estate. This great growth owes its reputation as "the quintessential Graves" to its superb Günz gravel terroir in a single block. The estate's history dates back to the Crusades. The Scottish navigator Georges Smith acquired the château in the 18th century and Monsieur Duffour-Dubergier, a Mayor of Bordeaux from a famous family of traders, was a subsequent owner.
Since its purchase by Florence and Daniel Cathiard in 1990, Smith Haut Lafitte has become one of the leading lights of Bordeaux thanks to its elegant, powerful red and white wines. In twenty years, the owners have not only brought the wine of Smith Haut Lafitte up to the very highest level, but also restored the château's 16th century tower, completely renovated two underground cellars, built their own cooperage, and introduced such organic methods as horse-drawn ploughing, home-made compost and the use of plant extracts.
Enchanted with this tasting of the finest wines of the Bordeaux wine region, historic cradle of the wine culture in the world, you will return to your ship.
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This tour involves moderate walking on paved and pebbled terrain. You must negotiate various steps to visit the property and its wine cellars. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility or in a wheelchair. This tour is limited to 25 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
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.
Saint Emilion village & Château Soutard
There can be no better place to start a visit to this attractive region than UNESCO World Heritage Classified Saint Emilion region and village, heartland of the Merlot grape, which produces delicious, rich, round wines.
The vines on the "hill with a thousand châteaux", reach right up to Saint Emilion's 13th century town walls and surrounding moat dug out of solid rock. Members of the local wine brotherhood, the Jurats, proclaim the vintage banns in much the same way as their ancestors did during the reign of Richard the Lion heart.
You will visit the main monuments of the town: the Collegial church and its magnificent cloister from the 12th century, the ramparts (12th), the marketplace. Strolling in the streets, you will also see the Cadene gate and the King's Tower. You will then have some time at leisure for shopping.
Continue your discovery of the first UNESCO classified village by driving through the vineyard and going to the impressive Château Soutard where you will be explained the techniques of wine making during the visit of the cellars, before a wine tasting.
- This tour involves walking over cobblestone streets and some steps. We recommend you wear flat, comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties due to steep cobblestoned streets in Saint-Emilion in addition to several stairs in the château.
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.
Battle of Normandy in Hedgerows hell
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.
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This excursion involves walking on mostly flat ground. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Sainte Mère church & Utah Beach
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Normandy traditions
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.
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We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Le Boréal
Le Boréal, like its Sisterships L’Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial, epitomises the unique feel and atmosphere of the ships of the PONANT fleet. Subtly combining luxury, intimacy and serene well-being, the ship has been designed to offer passengers both moments of conviviality and spaces conducive to peaceful tranquillity and a sense of escape and getting away from it all. Its exterior and interior lines testify to the ingeniousness and refinement with which the Sisterships have been designed.
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
No single supplement
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Excursions included
During your journey, enjoy an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Whether this is the visit of an emblematic museum or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an activity in the heart of nature or a tasting of local products, or one of many other highlights, you will benefit from a careful selection of activities throughout your itinerary.
Pre-bookings will open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests will be processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Viana do Castelo & Santa Luzia
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Santiago de Compostela
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
According to availability, price per passenger.Vigo & Baiona
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 18th century), 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 18th century) and a superb Baroque façade, or the Casa de Salgado (from the 17th century).
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
According to availability, price per passenger.Pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela
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
According to availability, price per passenger.Pazo de Rubianes & wine tasting
From the pier, you will board your coach and start your 1-hour drive to Villagarcia.
Once arriving, you will visit the Pazo de Rubianes. Located in the Arousa estuary (Pontevedra), it is one of the three official lordships in Spain. The main building was constructed in the 15th century. In the 18th century the tower was pulled down, and a summer residence with rectangular plan was created. The gardens, with more than 11 hectares, have remarkable eucalyptus trees with perimeters of 12 meters, olives and magnolias. It has geometrical flowerbeds of French style, with sequoias and camphors. Its grandiose magnolias Magnolia grandiflora L. have been included in the Galician Monumental Tree Catalogue.
With an area of 25 hectares, the vineyard of Pazo de Rubianes is the largest in the region of Salnés. Don Gonzalo Ozores of Urcola - eighteenth Lord of the House of Rubianes and Marqués de Aranda- and his wife, Mrs. Paloma Rey Fernández Latorre, were responsible for the recovery of ancient vineyards and the new vineyard project that took place between the years 1997 and 1999. Don Gonzalo, great lover of his estate, had a great devotion for his vineyards and planned to produce wine on the property again. But he could not fulfil his dream before his death in 2006. His wife, Mrs. Paloma, picked up the baton in order to realise the desire of her husband. In 2009, ten years after the recovery of the vineyards, the first wine of this new winery of Pazo de Rubianes was bottled. Built in the 15th century, the cellar smells now like wine again, and allows to preserve the quality of each vintage. Only slightly less than 30 % of the grapes produced in the vineyards of Pazo de Rubianes are chosen to give rise to these exclusive wines with which each year comes the new crop of Pazo de Rubianes and García Caamaño wines.
After enjoying a walking tour on the gardens and the cellar, you will enjoy a tasting of this exclusive wine accompanied with tapas.
Finally, re-board your coach and start your return drive to Vigo, a 1-hour drive.
- This tour involves 2 km (1,5 mile) of walking on uneven paths with mud sometimes and some steps to enter the manor at Rubianes. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. The tasting is included on your tour. The tour of the gardens will be guided by the Botanical experts of the estate and translate in French by your guide. This tour is limited to 50 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
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.
Bilbao & Guggenheim Museum
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
According to availability, price per passenger.The Basque coastline
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Traditions & wine
From the pier, board your local coach for a scenic drive to Bermeo.
On your way, discover the rural beauty of the Basque country. As you travel through countryside dotted with secluded farmhouses and along the Biscayan Coast with its steep cliffs and isolated beaches, listen to your guide explanation.
Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walk of Bermeo, a charming city with a beautiful fishing harbour, which was the provincial capital until 1602. In the old quarter, be impressed by the Gothic Church of San Francisco, the 18th-century town hall and the neoclassical Church of Santa Maria.
Continue your journey through countryside and reach you next destination: Cellar Gorka Izaguirre. This local winery production owes its success to the passion of the team and of course the local grapes, Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Zerratia. These delicate varieties are descendents of Basque farm houses, grown in the Northeast Atlantic. The bunches are small and concentrated which keeps them full of personality; the result is a wine with a unique identity. The coastal air, steep hilly slopes, southeast morning sun, well-aerated plots green lush hillsides impart a unique freshness and character to their wines.
After a visit of the winery, enjoy a wine tasting moment with local tapas.
Then, get back to the coach for the return trip to the pier.
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This excursion involves walking 0,9 mile (1,5 km) on uneven grounds, cobblestones, and some inclines. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
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.
Gourmet guided walking tour of Bordeaux
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Gourmet City tour of Bordeaux
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Farm of Neuvic, French caviar producer
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!
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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.
Hike at Château Boutinet
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.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.
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This excursion involves walking on uneven ground and steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Dune of Pilat
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Visit of Château Smith Haut Lafitte
Following a customized tour of the estate, you will visit the owners' private cellar, taste the estate's first wine, both white and red, and the young vines in red.
Today, you will be invited to a special confidential wine tasting at Pessac-Léognan Classified Great Growth Château Smith Haut Lafitte estate. This great growth owes its reputation as "the quintessential Graves" to its superb Günz gravel terroir in a single block. The estate's history dates back to the Crusades. The Scottish navigator Georges Smith acquired the château in the 18th century and Monsieur Duffour-Dubergier, a Mayor of Bordeaux from a famous family of traders, was a subsequent owner.
Since its purchase by Florence and Daniel Cathiard in 1990, Smith Haut Lafitte has become one of the leading lights of Bordeaux thanks to its elegant, powerful red and white wines. In twenty years, the owners have not only brought the wine of Smith Haut Lafitte up to the very highest level, but also restored the château's 16th century tower, completely renovated two underground cellars, built their own cooperage, and introduced such organic methods as horse-drawn ploughing, home-made compost and the use of plant extracts.
Enchanted with this tasting of the finest wines of the Bordeaux wine region, historic cradle of the wine culture in the world, you will return to your ship.
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This tour involves moderate walking on paved and pebbled terrain. You must negotiate various steps to visit the property and its wine cellars. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility or in a wheelchair. This tour is limited to 25 participants.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€: the excursion price is between €100 and €150.
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.
Saint Emilion village & Château Soutard
There can be no better place to start a visit to this attractive region than UNESCO World Heritage Classified Saint Emilion region and village, heartland of the Merlot grape, which produces delicious, rich, round wines.
The vines on the "hill with a thousand châteaux", reach right up to Saint Emilion's 13th century town walls and surrounding moat dug out of solid rock. Members of the local wine brotherhood, the Jurats, proclaim the vintage banns in much the same way as their ancestors did during the reign of Richard the Lion heart.
You will visit the main monuments of the town: the Collegial church and its magnificent cloister from the 12th century, the ramparts (12th), the marketplace. Strolling in the streets, you will also see the Cadene gate and the King's Tower. You will then have some time at leisure for shopping.
Continue your discovery of the first UNESCO classified village by driving through the vineyard and going to the impressive Château Soutard where you will be explained the techniques of wine making during the visit of the cellars, before a wine tasting.
- This tour involves walking over cobblestone streets and some steps. We recommend you wear flat, comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties due to steep cobblestoned streets in Saint-Emilion in addition to several stairs in the château.
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.
Battle of Normandy in Hedgerows hell
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.
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This excursion involves walking on mostly flat ground. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Sainte Mère church & Utah Beach
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.
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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
According to availability, price per passenger.Normandy traditions
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.
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We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.