Diving 
The Travel Concierge service 
Excursions included 
Mistral Stateroom
30% Ponant Bonus
14 m²
2
Reverie under Sail in the Heart of the Lesser Antilles
Philipsburg - Marigot
Dates:
29/03/2025
to
05/04/2025
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht. The finest travel address on the waters of the world.
The Caribbean. The mere mention of this vast archipelago conjures images of waves dancing along the shoreline, lapping against long beaches lined with elegant palm trees. During this unforgettable 8-day cruise, spend your time contemplating and exploring aboard PONANT’s emblematic yacht.
You will leave behind the lively shores of Philipsburg, the Dutch part of Saint-Martin. Soon, deeply breathing in the air on the deck of the three-mast yacht, you will be enchanted by the infinite palette of blues in the Caribbean Sea. You will drop anchor around Sandy Island, where you may indulge in daydreaming in the heart of an extraordinary lagoon where an almost otherworldly sand bar has formed. In this natural pool, you will enjoy the moment as you go out on a paddle board or a kayak, or for a swim.
Thanks to the perfect conditions, sailing here is a delight for all the senses. Lying on the deck, you will let the wind and the sunshine caress your skin, while the crew sail the mainsail. With dependable trade winds, easy visual navigation, many moorings in crystal-clear waters and an underwater world full of fish, the British Virgin Islands really are one of the best sailing destinations in the world. Be inspired by the hilly landscapes, swim with turtles and multicoloured fish above the coral reefs, lounge on the seemingly endless beaches of white sand and head for the heights to explore the paths that criss-cross Norman Island, “the pirate island” where PONANT will be taking you for the first time.
At the end of a beautiful crossing over the Caribbean Sea, you will arrive in the Anguilla archipelago, a little-known jewel where you will be able to reconnect both with yourself and the surrounding elements. On Dog Island, you will be like Robinson Crusoe discovering a desert island. You will not come across anyone, except a few wild goats and a colony of seabirds that you will learn to recognise with the help of a local naturalist-guide.
After this odyssey embracing the elements, feeling refreshed by this special experience aboard Le Ponant, as if you were on your very own yacht, you will return to terra firma in Marigot.
Ref : PO290325
Your itinerary
A cruise in the British Virgin Islands with ideal sailing conditions, featuring leisure activities and relaxation in a picture-postcard setting. Two new ports of call discovering uninhabited islands: Dog...
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Your trip in detail
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LE BORÉAL
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27/06/2024 to the 05/07/2024
- New
LE CHAMPLAIN
L'AUSTRAL
L'AUSTRAL
01/08/2024 to the 08/08/2024
*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
- Concierge Service: tailor-made and fully customisable services, from your reservation until you return from your trip
- 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)
- No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
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.
For women: simple dress, skirt or trousers, blouse, polo
For men: pleated trousers or chinos, sports jacket, shirt, polo
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- 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
- White or black and white outfit for a Theme evening.
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
Diving & initiation dive
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 1 star CMAS or the PADI Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 20 metres.
- If two Stars CMAS or PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Process of the initiation dives (novice divers)
Before your initiation dive, your instructor will show you the equipment and will explain to you how to communicate underwater using hand gestures and how to breathe through a regulator. Once in the water, equipped with your material, you will learn how to breathe through your regulator on the surface for a couple of minutes. When your instructor feels you are ready, he will immerse you in water for about 20 minutes to a depth of 6 metres maximum.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Fauna and flora of the Caribbean Sea
The fauna of the Caribbean Sea is very varied. During the different dives, divers can observe various species of benthic fauna such as French angel fish, queen angel fish, spotted drums, puffer fish, parrots fish, and pelagic fauna such as spotted eagle ray, barracudas, horse eyes jackfish, as well as fixed wildlife such as gorgonians and barrel sponges.
Scuba diving activities on this cruise
|
PORT OF CALL |
DIVES (for certified divers) |
DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING (for beginners) |
|
Saint Martin – Philipsburg |
NO |
NO |
|
Anguilla – Sandy Island, Anguilla |
YES |
NO |
|
British Virgin Islands – Norman Island |
YES |
YES |
|
British Virgin Islands – Virgin Gorda |
YES |
NO |
|
British Virgin Islands – Virgin Gorda |
YES |
YES |
|
British Virgin Islands – Jost Van Dyke |
YES |
YES |
|
British Virgin Islands – Beef Island |
YES |
NO |
|
Anguilla - Dog Island, Anguilla |
YES |
NO |
|
Saint-Martin – Marigot |
NO |
NO |
These sites are indicative. The proposed diving excursions may be changed depending on weather and safety conditions and the number of divers.
Rates
Excellence and Passion packages must be pre-booked with your travel consultant before departure. Beyond that, all reservations will be confirmed once on board and subject to availability.
Introductory dives, Exploration dives and Discovery packages must be organised on board directly with your diving instructor.
Price per person
- Introductory dive:
- Introductory dive (1 dive): €80
- Discovery Package (2 dives) : €150
- Certified divers :
- Exploration (1 dive) : €80
- Excellence Package (3 dives) : €225
- Passion Package (6 dives) : €420
Highlights
- A cruise in the British Virgin Islands with ideal sailing conditions, featuring leisure activities and relaxation in a picture-postcard setting.
- Two new ports of call discovering uninhabited islands: Dog Island, Norman Island.
- On land and on sea, soak in the Caribbean spirit and enjoy exceptional moments such as the stunning sunsets aboard your ship.
- A rich programme of included excursions.
- Enjoy the extraordinary experience of sailing aboard Le Ponant as though you were on your own private yacht.
- A limited-capacity yacht: a maximum of 32 passengers and as many crew members; a dedicated chef
- Sail on a ship propelled by the wind and enjoy the wonderful opportunities nature offers us to adjust the programme and navigate under sail whenever possible.
- Exceptional moments on board and numerous water-based activities to discover the beauty of the Caribbean as if alone in the world, with all your senses heightened.
- Discover the underwater flora and fauna of the Caribbean during your choice of an included beginner’s introduction to diving or a more advanced scuba dive (Level 1 or CMAS 1-star diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor.
Ports of Call & Excursions
29 March 2025 - Philipsburg
Embarkation 29/03/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 29/03/2025 at 19:00
The capital of the Dutch part of Saint-Martin, in the south of the island, Philipsburg is bordered by a 3-km (1.9-mile) long expanse of sand. Following a stroll along Front Street and Back Street, the lively streets edged with houses with colourful facades, take a break on a lounger opposite the calm and turquoise sea of Great Bay. Sint Maarten Museum will immerse you in the past of the Arawaks, an indigenous people of the West Indies. You will also be able to admire the view from Fort Amsterdam, the first fort constructed by the Dutch in the 17th century.
30 March 2025 - At sea aboard Le Ponant
Arrival 30/03/2025
Departure 30/03/2025
During your day at sea on board Le Ponant, make the most of your free time and the comfort of your ship for a moment of rest or conviviality. If the weather is right, let yourself be tempted by a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to do some shopping in the boutique and share the highlights of your cruise with the other passengers. 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 relaxation, sharing and the pleasure of sailing on a yacht.
30 March 2025 - Sandy Island, Anguilla
Arrival 30/03/2025 midday
Departure 30/03/2025 late afternoon
This little slice of crescent-shaped land is located in the vast lagoon of Anguilla, off the north-west coast. It has all the magical allure of a desert island. To shelter you from the sun’s blaze in the hottest part of the day, the only constructions to be seen are wooden pergolas nestling among the coconut palms. You can swim, snorkel, or just chill.
31 March 2025 - Norman Island
Arrival 31/03/2025 early morning
Departure 31/03/2025 evening
The private property of an American philanthropist, this “pirate island” is brimming with stories of adventure. It is said that pirates used to come here to hide their loot, that a fisherman found treasure deep in a cave here and that it is where Robert Louis Stevenson found the inspiration to write his famous novel. Today, the island is very popular for its snorkelling and diving spots. You will be able to explore the caves of Treasure Point, and kayak to Peter Island with a guide. With its numerous hiking paths, the island is also perfect for walking. Go up the hill to make the most of the incredible views over the Sir Francis Drake Channel. The large port offers passing ships substantial protection. The island is inhabited only by pelicans and wild goats, but you will be able to enjoy grilled fish, seafood and cocktails in one of the establishments on the beach.
1 April 2025 - Virgin Gorda
Arrival 01/04/2025
Departure 01/04/2025 evening
Virgin Gorda is one of the British Virgin Islands archipelago’s largest islands. There, you will discover The Baths National Park and its well-renowned picture-postcard beaches. Gigantic volcanic boulders sit surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, creating spectacular geological formations. Indeed, over the years a network of basins, caves and natural pools has formed, resulting in a sublime aquatic maze in which it is enjoyable to lose oneself before heading to the stunning Devil’s Bay Beach. On the island’s south-eastern tip, Copper Mine National Park is still home to many ruins of an abandoned copper mine that looks out over the sea.
2 April 2025 - Jost Van Dyke
Arrival 02/04/2025 early morning
Departure 02/04/2025 late afternoon
During your cruise, discover the pearl of the British Virgin Islands, said to have been named after a fearsome Dutch pirate from long ago. he hilly landscape offers travellers beautiful wild expanses lined with immaculate beaches where the breeze gently caresses the coconut palms. In this slice of heaven with crystal-clear waters, you will be able to enjoy the lively atmosphere of White Bay. As for the wildlife, iguanas, mongooses, pelicans and blue herons have taken up residence on these islands, much to the delight of our passengers who love a good holiday snap!
3 April 2025 - Beef Island
Arrival 03/04/2025
Departure 03/04/2025 late afternoon
Connected to the island of Tortola by the Queen Elizabeth Bridge, Beef Island will provide you with an enchanted interlude. You will disembark by Zodiac in Trellis Bay, a small town with a market, restaurant, café, boutiques selling local crafts and a beach. Visit the shops, boutiques and the Aragorn art gallery, where you will find artisanal objects from the Caribbean, jewellery, sculptures, calabash purses and bowls as well as handwoven baskets.
4 April 2025 - Dog Island, Anguilla
Arrival 04/04/2025 late morning
Departure 04/04/2025 late afternoon
A small and uninhabited island edged with low cliffs and sandy beaches, Dog Island and the three cays that make it up are an important bird breeding area. You will be able to observe a great number of nesting seabirds here, mainly sooty terns. Other seabirds breed here in smaller numbers, in particular red-billed tropicbirds, magnificent frigatebirds, masked boobies, brown boobies, black-headed gulls, bridled terns and brown noddies. The island is also home to several kinds of small reptiles, as well as wild goats. You will also be able to experience the joys of swimming, kayaking and free-diving.
5 April 2025 - Marigot
Arrival 05/04/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 05/04/2025 at 08:15
Located on the west coast of the French side of Saint Martin, an island in the north-east of the Caribbean Sea, Marigot has stunning discoveries in store for you. Its streets are home to old Creole huts, the traditional dwellings in the 19th century, as well as a host of luxury boutiques and artist studios. Overlooking Marigot Bay and facing Anguilla, Fort Louis is an ideal spot from which to admire the Simpson Bay Lagoon and the surrounding small, lush mountains. For those who enjoy walking, taking a lovely stroll from the Fort Louis marina via the market, is an opportunity to fully enjoy the easy way of life in this charming, picturesque town.
Le Ponant
This legendary yacht offers a uniquely exclusive voyage experience. An invitation to sail, revitalise oneself, share, contemplate and respect the world around us. An ode to freedom and the treasures of nature.
With its common areas open extensively to the horizon, you will have never felt such communion with the elements. With one crew member per passenger and just thirty-two guests on board, you will have never enjoyed so much attention. With navigation under sail the moment conditions allow, you will have never savoured each second that passes to such an extent.
Decks
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
A recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to the main diving instructor.
The Travel Concierge service
Our Travel Concierge service is designed to make your trip an unforgettable one by offering services precisely tailored to your individual needs. These include private transfers, access to airport waiting lounges, home services during your absence and personalised stopovers.
Our Travel Concierge team is ready to help with the smallest details of your trip, so you can leave home care-free and enjoy the voyage with complete peace of mind.
Discover all the concierge services by clicking here.
Looking forward to accompanying you,
PONANT Travel Concierge Team
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.