Guest Speaker 
Deluxe Stateroom
25% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
- New
From the Baltic Sea to the North Sea
Copenhagen - Oslo
Dates:
18/08/2023
to
28/08/2023
days
nights on board
Embark on a brand-new 11-night cruise aboard Le Champlain, sailing between the Baltic Sea and the North Sea to discover Northern Europe and its emblematic cities.
From Copenhagen, you will first set a course for Karlskrona. This city, whose history is intrinsically linked to the Swedish Navy, boasts exceptional UNESCO-listed architecture that is characteristic of late-17th-century European naval cities.
Le Champlain will then sail to the Swedish island of Gotland and call at Visby, a site that was important for the Hanseatic League in the Baltic Sea around the 13th century. A UNESCO Heritage Site, this once-opulent city still has remarkably well-preserved ramparts, public buildings, merchant houses and warehouses.
You will also discover Riga, the capital of Latvia. A unique blend of different architectural styles, the old town will open itself up to you like the pages of a history book.
Further south, Klaipeda, formerly known as Memel, the main port town in Lithuania, is separated only by a narrow channel from the Curonian Spit, a UNESCO Heritage.
Your ship will call at Gdansk, famous for its amber stone and its shipyards, before reaching the charming town of Ronne, on the small Danish island of Bornholm, which is popular with the Danish for its variety of landscapes ranging from granite to sandy beaches.
After calling at the seaside resort of Travemünde, a favourite destination of travellers since the 19th century due to its kilometres of beach and its charming fishing port, Le Champlain will sail towards the Danish capital, Copenhagen.
On the final leg of your trip you will call at Gothenburg, in Sweden. The country’s main port, the city can be discovered via its pretty canals, cultural treasures and emblematic districts.
Your cruise will end in Oslo, the Norwegian capital, a city with a unique energy.
Ref : EC180823
Your itinerary
A brand-new cruise between the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, to see beautiful scenery and emblematic cities brimming with history. UNESCO World Heritage sites: naval port of Karlskrona, the Hanseatic Town...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects flights and takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE JACQUES-CARTIER
- New
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
L'AUSTRAL
04/11/2022 to the 20/11/2022
- New
LE LAPEROUSE
09/11/2022 to the 23/11/2022
LE LYRIAL
*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
- 24h room service
- Butler service and priority boarding : Owner’s suite, Grand de Luxe Suite, Privilege Suites, Prestige Suite Deck 6
- Inclusive Internet access Wifi (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Selection of Hermès top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar included
- 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)
- Two 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:
Depending on the itinerary and the program of your cruise, 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 brand-new cruise between the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, to see beautiful scenery and emblematic cities brimming with history.
- UNESCO World Heritage sites: naval port of Karlskrona, the Hanseatic Town of Visby, the historical centre of Riga; the Curonian Spit from Klaipeda, the Hanseatic Town of Lübeck.
- A new port of call: the Swedish city of Karlskrona, whose naval port is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- A port of call in the charming German fishing port, Travemünde.
- A stopover in Sweden to visit the picturesque city of Gothenburg.
Ports of Call & Excursions
18 August 2023 - Copenhagen
Embarkation 18/08/2023 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 18/08/2023 at 18:00
Connected to the far eastern side of Sealand island, a few kilometres away from the Swedish coasts, Copenhagen offers you the high colour of Scandinavian capitals. You can discover the city's riches that weaves through the canal networks through the historical districts of Christiansborg and Nyhavn. Many palaces provide an apercu of Danish history. For eating, you can try out the smorrebrod, traditional danish sandwiches made with ham, cheese or smoked fish.
19 August 2023 - Karlskrona
Arrival 19/08/2023 early morning
Departure 19/08/2023 midday
Discover Karlskrona on the southern coast of Sweden, between land and sea, spread over the small islands of the Blekinge archipelago. Its strategic position on the Baltic Sea made it the headquarters of the Swedish Royal Navy and its naval dockyard on the orders of King Karl XI of Sweden, in 1680. Constructed from nothing, the citadel has kept its architecture, whose coherence and conservation have today earned its listing as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its authentic colourful wooden houses facing the sea - which is never too far away - and its rich naval history give it an exquisite and unique charm. Do not miss this visit.
20 August 2023 - Visby, Gotland
Arrival 20/08/2023 early morning
Departure 20/08/2023 late morning
This old Hanseatic city lies to the west coast of Gotland, a Swedish island in the Baltic sea. Pass through the spectacular Visby fortifications and visit the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll discover the grand Visby homes of rich merchants as well as the lovely low wooden houses in the little cobbled streets. Don’t miss Saint Mary’s cathedral with its octagonal steeples, as well as Powder tower along the fortifications. Make sure you stop over in one of the rose-adorned cafés; indeed roses abound in this town where you can taste one of the island’s specialities, namely saffron pancakes with red fruit.
21 August 2023 - Riga
Arrival 21/08/2023 early morning
Departure 21/08/2023 early afternoon
At the place where East meets West on the edge of the Baltic Sea, Riga, the capital of Latvia, will charm you with its contrasts. Although it is one of the oldest cities in the Baltic states, with a unique atmosphere that is imbued with the memory of its medieval past, Riga is also tangibly dynamic and modern. As you stroll through its old town, you will enjoy its exceptional architecture, its cathedrals, the remains of old walls and the typical narrow streets. Nicknamed “the Paris of the North” in the 1930s, this cosmopolitan city boasts a rich heritage.
22 August 2023 - Klaipeda
Arrival 22/08/2023 midday
Departure 22/08/2023 early evening
Klaipeda was founded in the 13th century by Christian crusaders from the German Order of Teutonic Knights. Its strategic location on the edge of the Baltic Sea has made it a source of conflict between Germans, Poles, Lithuanians and even the French since its creation. Today, the legacy of Klaipeda’s rich history is a great multiculturalism. This is the main port of Lithuania and the country’s third largest city. The beautiful landscapes of the surrounding Baltic coast make it a popular tourist destination. The city centre is very pleasant to visit due to its architecture blending German and Scandinavian influences.
23 August 2023 - Gdansk
Arrival 23/08/2023 early morning
Departure 23/08/2023 late afternoon
This ravishing city on the Baltic sea is nicknamed “the golden door of Poland”, and you’ll understand why when you see its beautiful Hanseatic architecture. You’ll be charmed by the mouldings and gables that enhance the colourful façades of the houses. Along the Vistula Quays, you can take a pleasant stroll among the crafts shops. In elegant Mariacka street, the amber jewellers will most certainly tempt you into their boutiques. You can visit the church of Saint-Mary and its astronomic clock. Not far, the majestic Long Market square offers the famous Artus Court and the rich Gdansk History Museum.
24 August 2023 - Ronne
Arrival 24/08/2023 midday
Departure 24/08/2023 late afternoon
To the south-west of the Baltic Sea, the small Danish island of Bornholm is a magnificent and light-filled setting for the charming town of Ronne, its capital. Close to Sweden, Poland and Germany and coveted many times for its strategic position, the island has managed to preserve its identity. Strolling its cobbled streets, fall under the spell of the colourful half-timbered houses and discover Denmark’s oldest theatre. The museum located in a former market hall retraces the traditional life of the island and its history. In the midst of landscapes alternating rocky coastlines and fine sandy beaches, maybe you will come across the medieval fortress of Hammerhus, or one of the remarkable round churches scattered over the island.
25 August 2023 - Travemünde
Arrival 25/08/2023 early morning
Departure 25/08/2023 mid afternoon
Made famous by Thomas Mann and Dostoevsky, Travemünde has, since the 19th century, been a popular seaside resort for the cultural elites of Northern Europe. The colourful beach huts that line the 4.5 km of fine sandy beach, the seafront walkway lined with boutiques and cafes and its wide streets have kept their yesteryear charm. From Travemünde, you can discover the magnificent historical centre of Lübeck, for the former capital of the Hanseatic League, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Characterised by its unique profile with seven bell towers and the island of its Old Town surrounded by quaysides and parks, the city has managed to preserve many patrician dwellings of the 15th and 16th centuries and a monumental fortified town gate.
26 August 2023 - Copenhagen
Arrival 26/08/2023 early morning
Departure 26/08/2023 evening
Connected to the far eastern side of Sealand island, a few kilometres away from the Swedish coasts, Copenhagen offers you the high colour of Scandinavian capitals. You can discover the city's riches that weaves through the canal networks through the historical districts of Christiansborg and Nyhavn. Many palaces provide an apercu of Danish history. For eating, you can try out the smorrebrod, traditional danish sandwiches made with ham, cheese or smoked fish.
27 August 2023 - Göteborg (Gothenburg)
Arrival 27/08/2023 midday
Departure 27/08/2023 late afternoon
A lively harbour town, Göteborg is located on the west coast of Sweden, at the crossing of the Göta älv river and the bay of Cattégat. In the old Haga district, you can peruse hippy-chic fashion boutiques and bohemian cafés in the ground floors of traditional wood houses. On the majestic Gustave-Adolphe square, you’ll see elegant neoclassical buildings. Not far from here is the municipal museum dedicated to the town’s history. In addition, you will be able to sail along Göteborg’s numerous canals. As for eating, it’s the fish and shellfish which make the gastronomic reputation of this beautiful stopover.
28 August 2023 - Oslo
Arrival 28/08/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 28/08/2023 at 08:00
Capital of Norway, Olso, is a green city. Its many parks and gardens make it the reputedly pleasant city it is. The 80 hectares of Vigeland sculpture parks and its 212 open air exhibitions, the Munch Museum dedicated to the life and works of the Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, plus the Akershus fortress which symbolises Oslo’s rich history, are both must-sees. For culture, the national gallery shelters the largest Norwegian collection of paintings, drawings and sculptures open to the public. And, for sports enthusiasts, the Holmenkollen district with its Ski museum and famous ski jump offer the most stunning, all-encompassing view of the city.
City of Visby and Botanical Garden
Visby, the capital of Gotland, boasts a history that tells of the Viking Age, a flourishing medieval period and the growth of the powerful Hanseatic League. Today, however, Visby is best known as the Town of Roses and Ruins, and is one of Sweden's most popular vacation resorts.
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive along the coast up to the Gallows Hill called Galgberget, a high limestone cliff with a beautiful view of the Baltic Sea and the outskirts of Visby. On the cliff you can see three stone pillars standing in a circle, these are the remaining ruins of a "gallows", which in earlier times were used for executions.
After this first glimpse at the city, you will head to the former medieval harbour of Almedalen, now a public park. Begin your tour with a walk in the park and then towards Visby’s oldest building, the Powder Tower, dating to the 12th century to defend the harbour. Walk through the Fisherman’s Gate of the town’s 13th century medieval defensive wall to the Botanical Garden Park, which displays many rare plants and is famous for its roses.
You will then reboard your coach and drive past part of the remaining two-mile-long, 13th-century city wall, to Dalmansporten. Continue with a guided walk down through the narrow, winding, medieval streets to see the impressive St Mary's Cathedral, this church was built by German merchants at the end of the 11th century and is still in use today.
Finally, you will return to your ship awaiting you in the port of Visby.
- This excursion involves approximately 2 miles (3,5 km) of walking on cobblestoned and paved sidewalks. Within the medieval walled town, the guided walk is over mainly downhill. We recommand you wear comfortable walking shoes. The inside visit of the church is not guranted in case of services taking place.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour & Chopin concert
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate facades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints. Enjoy some time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
Next, drive to the Polish Baltic Philharmonic and enjoy an exlusive concert of Polish classical music, which presents the most famous pieces of classical music written by Frédéric Chopin, as well as other great masters that continued his tradition: Edward Grieg, Fritz Kreisler, Wojciech Kilar (a contemporary film music composer) and Henryk Wieniawski. The entire programme will be performed by a renowned Polish pianist Rafal Lewandowski.
After the concert, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.24 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). A welcome drink before the concert will be offered.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Nature and villages of Bornholm
Ronne is the largest town on the Danish island of Bornholm. Owing to its natural harbour and its strategic position in the Baltic Sea, Ronne has an interesting history coming under German and Swedish influence during its development as a herring fishing port.
From the pier, board your bus for a 30-minute drive and start your adventure through the island and the lush Danish countryside before you reach the village of Svaneke. Svaneke is the oldest and most easter situated merchant and fishing village of Denmark. You will be given the opportunity to visit some of the shops producing local delicacies or treat yourself with a beer from Svaneke microbrew house, the first microbrewery in Denmark using organic ingredients only and generating its own electrical power by using one of the most natural sources available, the sun.
Along the Northern coast through Bølshavn you will drive into the countryside passing the famous round church of Østerlars. Then, along the coastal road you will go through the villages of Gudhjem, Kås, Tejn, Allinge and Sandvig, a former collection of coastal farmers. The villages consisting of timbered and half-timbered houses today are one of the most visited and popular villages of Denmark.
Your scenic and coastal drive continues up to the most North-Western point of the Island before you pass the biggest castle ruin in Northern Europe, Hammershus. From your coach you will have a chance to stop for taking a photo of the largest castle ruin in Denmark.
Finally, your journey ends along the west coast of the island before you return to your ship at the port of Ronne.
- This tour involves approximately 500 meters (0.3 mile) of walking on flat terrain. Please note the order of the visits may be reversed.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Royal highlights
From the pier, board your vehicle and depart for Christiansborg Palace, which was originally built on the ruins of Copenhagen Castle. Today, this palace is home to the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court and the state rooms. A visit to the Queen’s reception rooms, where the Queen receives foreign ambassadors and visiting heads of state, is featured during your visit. Of special interest are the 17 new tapestries in the Knight’s Hall, depicting 1,000 years of Danish history. They have taken 10 years to weave and were presented to the Queen on her 50th birthday in 1990.
Continue to Amalienborg Palace Square for a view of the beautiful Amalienborg Palace. The sprawling octagonal courtyard linking four rococo mansions and the impressive Marble Church is regarded as one of Europe’s finest examples of the staging Absolutism and is widely considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Home to the royal family since 1794, the palace houses numerous heirlooms and the charming garden, Amaliehaven.
No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without a visit to the city’s most cherished landmark – make a photo stop at the Little Mermaid statue, a small bronze figure inspired by the tales of Hans Christian Andersen.
After this last stop, re-board your motor coach and return to your ship.
- This tour includes some steps and 1 km (0.5 mile) of walking, sometimes over cobblestone terrain. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Panoramic Gothenburg & canal cruise
From the pier, start your tour with a drive up to the Masthuggs Church, where you have a magnificent view of Gothenburg and the port.
In the heart of the city, you will pass Götaplatsen, with the famous Poseidon Fountain by Carl Milles. The Museum of Fine Arts, the Concert Hall and the Municipal Theatre are also located at Götaplatsen.
Drive along Avenyn, the main street and the Grand Boulevard of Gothenburg, with a great number of nice restaurants, bars and shops. At Gustav Adolf's Square, you will see the City Hall, the Court House and the Stock Exchange.
You will also pass by the Feskekyrka, the Fish Market famous for its architecture.
At Kungsbroplatsen, you will leave your coach and board the sightseeing boat, Paddan (“the Toad”), for a sight so typical for Gothenburg. The classic city tour on the Paddan boats shows off the beauty of Gothenburg from a waterside perspective. You will step aboard in the centre of the city and see the old moat and the canals that date from the 17th century, while learning about the history of the city's construction and defence. You will continue beneath the many low bridges, including the extremely low Osthyveln (“cheese slicer”) bridge, which brings you out into the fascinating harbour where the sights include traditional shipyards, the fishing harbour, new and old housing, expanding commercial and academic sites, and the maritime museum.
- This tour involves 0.5 mile (800 m) of walking on flat, uneven and cobblestones. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. Due to the boat ride, this tour is not available to wheelchair guests or those with mobility concerns. This tour needs a minimum of 25 participants to be operated.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gothenburg city tour
During this tour, you will discover Gothenburg's charms and history.
First, travel to the view point Klippan which offers a splendid view of the Archipelago and Älvsborg Bridge, then to Masthuggs Church for a spectacular view of the city and port.
Continue to the Botanical Gardens for a short visit in the beautifully arranged park setting. You will get the chance to witness the rock garden and the rhododendron valley.
Then proceed into the city centre and Götaplatsen, its cultural hub, flanked by the Museum of Fine Arts, the Concert Hall, the Municipal Theatre and the Library. This square is dominated by Carl Milles' imposing sculpture of the Poseidon Fountain.
Drive along Avenyn, Gothenburg's loveliest and busiest street, to Gustav Adolfs Torg, named after the city's founder, lined by the City Hall, the Court House and the Stock Exchange.
On the return way to your ship, you will pass by Feskekôrka (the “Fish Church”). This indoor fish market got its name from the building's resemblance to a Gothic church. Opened in 1874, it was designed by the city architect Victor von Gegerfelt. Feskekôrka is a legendary institution in Gothenburg symbolizing the city's oldest trade.
- This light tour involves 0.5 mile (800 m) of walking on flat, uneven and cobblestones. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Champlain
Like the rest of the PONANT EXPLORERS series, Le Champlain successfully manages to subtly combine the desire to explore the remotest regions of the planet with the comfort and privacy of a cosily intimate ship.
To the innovative and environmentally friendly equipment are added elegant design and a unique atmosphere in keeping with the whole PONANT universe. Your dream of a cruise onboard a cosily intimate ship is thus made possible through the combination of an authentically genuine voyage experience together with discreet luxury.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
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.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
City of Visby and Botanical Garden
Visby, the capital of Gotland, boasts a history that tells of the Viking Age, a flourishing medieval period and the growth of the powerful Hanseatic League. Today, however, Visby is best known as the Town of Roses and Ruins, and is one of Sweden's most popular vacation resorts.
From the pier, you will board your coach and drive along the coast up to the Gallows Hill called Galgberget, a high limestone cliff with a beautiful view of the Baltic Sea and the outskirts of Visby. On the cliff you can see three stone pillars standing in a circle, these are the remaining ruins of a "gallows", which in earlier times were used for executions.
After this first glimpse at the city, you will head to the former medieval harbour of Almedalen, now a public park. Begin your tour with a walk in the park and then towards Visby’s oldest building, the Powder Tower, dating to the 12th century to defend the harbour. Walk through the Fisherman’s Gate of the town’s 13th century medieval defensive wall to the Botanical Garden Park, which displays many rare plants and is famous for its roses.
You will then reboard your coach and drive past part of the remaining two-mile-long, 13th-century city wall, to Dalmansporten. Continue with a guided walk down through the narrow, winding, medieval streets to see the impressive St Mary's Cathedral, this church was built by German merchants at the end of the 11th century and is still in use today.
Finally, you will return to your ship awaiting you in the port of Visby.
- This excursion involves approximately 2 miles (3,5 km) of walking on cobblestoned and paved sidewalks. Within the medieval walled town, the guided walk is over mainly downhill. We recommand you wear comfortable walking shoes. The inside visit of the church is not guranted in case of services taking place.
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gdansk city tour & Chopin concert
From the pier in Gdansk, you will board your coach for a drive through the suburban and commercial sections of Gdansk on your way to the Old Town.
The city’s 1,000 years of history have left a collection of buildings and monuments designed in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles. Your guided walk will bring you to the heart of the city - the Old Town. You will see buildings decorated with elaborate facades crowded by ornate gables. You will pass by the Town Hall, Long Market and the beautiful 15th century merchant’s Palace of Artus Court. Pause at Neptune’s Fountain to admire this monumental symbol of Gdansk’s Hanseatic past and its connection with the sea before walking down to the waterfront canal. Then take Mariacka or St. Mary’s Street, which delight its visitors with its lively atmosphere, quaint shops and lovely terraced buildings.
Continue to St. Mary’s Church, the pride of Gdansk. Gothic St. Mary’s is the world’s largest brick church, accommodating some 25,000 worshippers. Situated in the centre of Old Town, this medieval church took 159 years to build, and its deceivingly plain exterior belies a bright, spacious interior with large windows and more than 30 beautifully decorated chapels. The floor is covered with ancient tombstones, and the northern transept holds an amazing 15th-century astronomical clock, complete with the zodiac cycle and a calendar of the saints. Enjoy some time at leisure to shop for amber jewellery, artwork and souvenirs in the Old Town of Gdansk.
Next, drive to the Polish Baltic Philharmonic and enjoy an exlusive concert of Polish classical music, which presents the most famous pieces of classical music written by Frédéric Chopin, as well as other great masters that continued his tradition: Edward Grieg, Fritz Kreisler, Wojciech Kilar (a contemporary film music composer) and Henryk Wieniawski. The entire programme will be performed by a renowned Polish pianist Rafal Lewandowski.
After the concert, re-board your coach for the return drive to the pier and your ship.
- This tour involves approximately 2.5 km (1.24 mile) of walking, some over cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). A welcome drink before the concert will be offered.
Price range:
Find out more
€€€€: the excursion price is more than €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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Nature and villages of Bornholm
Ronne is the largest town on the Danish island of Bornholm. Owing to its natural harbour and its strategic position in the Baltic Sea, Ronne has an interesting history coming under German and Swedish influence during its development as a herring fishing port.
From the pier, board your bus for a 30-minute drive and start your adventure through the island and the lush Danish countryside before you reach the village of Svaneke. Svaneke is the oldest and most easter situated merchant and fishing village of Denmark. You will be given the opportunity to visit some of the shops producing local delicacies or treat yourself with a beer from Svaneke microbrew house, the first microbrewery in Denmark using organic ingredients only and generating its own electrical power by using one of the most natural sources available, the sun.
Along the Northern coast through Bølshavn you will drive into the countryside passing the famous round church of Østerlars. Then, along the coastal road you will go through the villages of Gudhjem, Kås, Tejn, Allinge and Sandvig, a former collection of coastal farmers. The villages consisting of timbered and half-timbered houses today are one of the most visited and popular villages of Denmark.
Your scenic and coastal drive continues up to the most North-Western point of the Island before you pass the biggest castle ruin in Northern Europe, Hammershus. From your coach you will have a chance to stop for taking a photo of the largest castle ruin in Denmark.
Finally, your journey ends along the west coast of the island before you return to your ship at the port of Ronne.
- This tour involves approximately 500 meters (0.3 mile) of walking on flat terrain. Please note the order of the visits may be reversed.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Royal highlights
From the pier, board your vehicle and depart for Christiansborg Palace, which was originally built on the ruins of Copenhagen Castle. Today, this palace is home to the Danish Parliament, the Supreme Court and the state rooms. A visit to the Queen’s reception rooms, where the Queen receives foreign ambassadors and visiting heads of state, is featured during your visit. Of special interest are the 17 new tapestries in the Knight’s Hall, depicting 1,000 years of Danish history. They have taken 10 years to weave and were presented to the Queen on her 50th birthday in 1990.
Continue to Amalienborg Palace Square for a view of the beautiful Amalienborg Palace. The sprawling octagonal courtyard linking four rococo mansions and the impressive Marble Church is regarded as one of Europe’s finest examples of the staging Absolutism and is widely considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Home to the royal family since 1794, the palace houses numerous heirlooms and the charming garden, Amaliehaven.
No visit to Copenhagen would be complete without a visit to the city’s most cherished landmark – make a photo stop at the Little Mermaid statue, a small bronze figure inspired by the tales of Hans Christian Andersen.
After this last stop, re-board your motor coach and return to your ship.
- This tour includes some steps and 1 km (0.5 mile) of walking, sometimes over cobblestone terrain. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Panoramic Gothenburg & canal cruise
From the pier, start your tour with a drive up to the Masthuggs Church, where you have a magnificent view of Gothenburg and the port.
In the heart of the city, you will pass Götaplatsen, with the famous Poseidon Fountain by Carl Milles. The Museum of Fine Arts, the Concert Hall and the Municipal Theatre are also located at Götaplatsen.
Drive along Avenyn, the main street and the Grand Boulevard of Gothenburg, with a great number of nice restaurants, bars and shops. At Gustav Adolf's Square, you will see the City Hall, the Court House and the Stock Exchange.
You will also pass by the Feskekyrka, the Fish Market famous for its architecture.
At Kungsbroplatsen, you will leave your coach and board the sightseeing boat, Paddan (“the Toad”), for a sight so typical for Gothenburg. The classic city tour on the Paddan boats shows off the beauty of Gothenburg from a waterside perspective. You will step aboard in the centre of the city and see the old moat and the canals that date from the 17th century, while learning about the history of the city's construction and defence. You will continue beneath the many low bridges, including the extremely low Osthyveln (“cheese slicer”) bridge, which brings you out into the fascinating harbour where the sights include traditional shipyards, the fishing harbour, new and old housing, expanding commercial and academic sites, and the maritime museum.
- This tour involves 0.5 mile (800 m) of walking on flat, uneven and cobblestones. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes. Due to the boat ride, this tour is not available to wheelchair guests or those with mobility concerns. This tour needs a minimum of 25 participants to be operated.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.
Gothenburg city tour
During this tour, you will discover Gothenburg's charms and history.
First, travel to the view point Klippan which offers a splendid view of the Archipelago and Älvsborg Bridge, then to Masthuggs Church for a spectacular view of the city and port.
Continue to the Botanical Gardens for a short visit in the beautifully arranged park setting. You will get the chance to witness the rock garden and the rhododendron valley.
Then proceed into the city centre and Götaplatsen, its cultural hub, flanked by the Museum of Fine Arts, the Concert Hall, the Municipal Theatre and the Library. This square is dominated by Carl Milles' imposing sculpture of the Poseidon Fountain.
Drive along Avenyn, Gothenburg's loveliest and busiest street, to Gustav Adolfs Torg, named after the city's founder, lined by the City Hall, the Court House and the Stock Exchange.
On the return way to your ship, you will pass by Feskekôrka (the “Fish Church”). This indoor fish market got its name from the building's resemblance to a Gothic church. Opened in 1874, it was designed by the city architect Victor von Gegerfelt. Feskekôrka is a legendary institution in Gothenburg symbolizing the city's oldest trade.
- This light tour involves 0.5 mile (800 m) of walking on flat, uneven and cobblestones. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes. Appropriate dress is recommended to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Price range:
Find out more
€: the excursion price is less than €50.
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.
According to availability, price per passenger.