Guest of Honour 
Tropical Expedition 
Deluxe Stateroom
20% Ponant Bonus
19 m2
2
Queensland’s islands and reefs
Cairns - Brisbane
Dates:
05/11/2023
to
13/11/2023
days
nights on board
With featured guest Rupert McCall, internationally renowned Australian poet.
Allow yourself to fall under the spell of this itinerary in Australia that has been specially designed for guests looking for unspoiled islands and turquoise lagoons. You will set sail aboard Le Lapérouse for a 9-day expedition cruise with PONANT to discover the treasures of the Great Barrier Reef.
Starting in Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, set sail towards Willis Islets in the Coral Sea Territories featuring more than 30 separate reefs along with the spectacular Coral Sea Marine Park. Willis Island also features on this cruise; its monitoring station was established in 1921 to provide early cyclone warnings services to Queensland.
Lying some 50 kilometres to the north-east of the world-renowned Whitsunday Islands, you will reach Hardy Reef, which boasts unique marine biodiversity in this area.
You will continue your exploration of the Australian coast with the exploration of Percy Island, whose shallow waters beckon you in for a dip, and Lady Musgrave Island, which is ideal for snorkelling. Both are located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, a gigantic ecosystem of coral reefs that can be seen from space.
Finally, Le Lapérouse will reach Fraser Island, a charming islet with sandy cliffs in striking colours. You will be captivated by these landscapes of freshwater lakes surrounded by rainforest with a splendid biodiversity, before sailing on to Brisbane, your disembarkation port.
Ref : ER051123
Your itinerary
With featured guest Rupert McCall, internationally renowned Australian poet. A cruise to discover some of the Coral Sea’s treasures, from unspoiled islands to turquoise lagoons with an exceptional...
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*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
- Dyptique Paris 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
Rupert McCall
Rupert McCall is an Australian poet of international renown. His tributes to special events and occasions have become highly sought-after and treasured for the indelible mark they’ve left on audiences everywhere.
He is the author of six anthologies of verse that have collectively sold over 120,000 copies. Equally at home in radio or on TV, his resume features hosting roles for CH7’s The Great South East, 4BC’s Sports Today program and CH9’s Weekend Extra. Rupert’s great passion for sport was on display when he was appointed commentator for CH10 at the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France.
In many sectors, Rupert McCall has become the poet of our generation. In 2005 he was awarded the honour of opening the Prelude to the Dawn Service in Gallipoli with his acclaimed and moving tribute Ninety Years Ago and in 2011, he recited his poem A Firefighter's Dream at Ground Zero for the New York Fire Dept on the 10th Anniversary of 9/11. Rupert has also paid tribute to heroes and legends such as Roger Federer, Rod Laver, Don Bradman, Dawn Fraser, Greg Norman, John Eales, Jonathon Thurston, Black Caviar and Winx!
His popularity transcends all demographics and ages, from the schools he visits to the corporate and sporting functions that he entertains. He is a passionate Australian and his ability to share this enthusiasm with any audience is warmly received.
He has hosted and spoken at various high profile functions including Allan Border Medal Dinners, AFL Hall of Fame Dinners, Olympic receptions, racing occasions from Flemington to Birdsville, Test Match Rugby functions, tributes and testimonials. Rupert has already carved out a unique position in the Australian psyche and will continue to captivate and inspire audiences for years to come.
In 2013 as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Rupert received a Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia for services to the community, particularly as a poet.
Language spoken : English
Photo Credit : Sarah Keayes
Subject to withdrawal in case of force majeure
Rupert McCall
Rupert McCall is an Australian poet of international renown. His tributes to special events and occasions have become highly sought-after and treasured for the indelible mark they’ve left on audiences everywhere.
He is the author of six anthologies of verse that have collectively sold over 120,000 copies. Equally at home in radio or on TV, his resume features hosting roles for CH7’s The Great South East, 4BC’s Sports Today program and CH9’s Weekend Extra. Rupert’s great passion for sport was on display when he was appointed commentator for CH10 at the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France.
In many sectors, Rupert McCall has become the poet of our generation. In 2005 he was awarded the honour of opening the Prelude to the Dawn Service in Gallipoli with his acclaimed and moving tribute Ninety Years Ago and in 2011, he recited his poem A Firefighter's Dream at Ground Zero for the New York Fire Dept on the 10th Anniversary of 9/11. Rupert has also paid tribute to heroes and legends such as Roger Federer, Rod Laver, Don Bradman, Dawn Fraser, Greg Norman, John Eales, Jonathon Thurston, Black Caviar and Winx!
His popularity transcends all demographics and ages, from the schools he visits to the corporate and sporting functions that he entertains. He is a passionate Australian and his ability to share this enthusiasm with any audience is warmly received.
He has hosted and spoken at various high profile functions including Allan Border Medal Dinners, AFL Hall of Fame Dinners, Olympic receptions, racing occasions from Flemington to Birdsville, Test Match Rugby functions, tributes and testimonials. Rupert has already carved out a unique position in the Australian psyche and will continue to captivate and inspire audiences for years to come.
In 2013 as part of the Queen’s Birthday Honours List, Rupert received a Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia for services to the community, particularly as a poet.
Language spoken : English
Photo Credit : Sarah Keayes
Expedition programmes include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by your expedition team of naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Expedition Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
- Cotton comfortable and light-weight shorts/bermuda shorts
- Light weight long trousers
- Long-sleeved breathable SPF50+ shirts
- Cotton short sleeved T-shirt
- Aquatic UV long-sleeved T-shirt for sun protection during snorkeling or swimming
- Aquatic non-slip sandals
- Windproof, waterproof and breathable outer layer
- Broad brimmed anti-UV hat with strap and veil to protect the neck
- Comfortable walking shoes
Accessories:
- Highly protective sunglasses.
- Sunscreen and after-sun with high SPF index & insect repellent
- Binoculars (strongly recommended for wildlife viewing).
- Small waterproof backpack (to protect your camera from water).
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Walking poles (highly recommended).
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
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.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
- Shorts / bermudas
- Light weight long trousers
- Wind and waterproof light “breathable” outer layer
- Sweater/pullover for the evening
- Short and long sleeved cotton shirts
- Waterproof UV long sleeved T-shirt
- Long sleeved cotton shirt for sun protection during zodiac excursions and excursions ashore
- Ankle canvas shoes (which dry quickly and protect ankles)
- Aquatic shoes for wet landings on shore
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses with high UV filter
- Binoculars
- Walking poles
- Small waterproof backpack
- Camelbak (backpack with water pockets)
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Sun portective hat/cap with strap and veil to protect the neck
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- 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
- With featured guest Rupert McCall, internationally renowned Australian poet.
- A cruise to discover some of the Coral Sea’s treasures, from unspoiled islands to turquoise lagoons with an exceptional biodiversity.
- Zodiac shore visits with your expedition team.
- Many opportunities for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing on unspoiled islands, with white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water.
- View the remote Willis Islets and their associated cays.
- From Hardy Reef, the opportunity to observe some of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs and diverse undersea life.
- Relax on the picture-perfect Percy Island.
Ports of Call & Excursions
5 November 2023 - Cairns
Embarkation 05/11/2023 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 05/11/2023 at 18:00
Washed by the Coral Sea, the harbour town of Cairns is located on Australia's north-east coast. The seafront esplanade is a popular place for locals and visitors to walk, swim and picnic under the shade of swaying palm trees. The hills surrounding Cairns form the gateway to the Queensland Rainforests, proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage site for their fauna and flora from the Gondwana era.
6 November 2023 - Willis Island, Coral Sea Territory
Arrival 06/11/2023
Departure 06/11/2023
The Coral Sea Islands Territory is an territory of Australia extending east and south from the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, with 51 islets and cay along with 30 separate reefs and atolls, Willis Island being the only permanently inhabited island. The Willis Island weather monitoring station was established in 1921 to provide a cyclone early warning service for Queensland, and four weather observers usually live on the island. The recently established Coral Sea Marine Park is one of the world’s largest marine parks, and protects 16 different seafloor, 15,000 km² of reef systems an abundance of corals, reef fishes, sea stars, clams and sea cucumbers. Whilst landings are prohibited. If time and weather permit, you will have the opportunity to explore the Willis Islets from our fleet of zodiac.
7 November 2023 - At sea
Arrival 07/11/2023
Departure 07/11/2023
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.
8 November 2023 - Hardy Reef
Arrival 08/11/2023
Departure 08/11/2023
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system, composed of over 2,900 individual reefs and 900 islands stretching for over 2,300 kilometres along Australia’s tropical East Coast. It supports a wide diversity of life and was selected as a World Heritage Site in 1981. Hardy Reef is home to the innovatively designed Reefworld pontoon, ideally situated in shallower waters with protection from the surrounding sea conditions. You will be transferred by zodiac to the pontoon which provides easy access to the aquatic realm either by semi-submersible, underwater viewing chamber, snorkelling or diving. There is also undercover seating and tables, sun decks, freshwater showers and change rooms.
9 November 2023 - Percy Island
Arrival 09/11/2023
Departure 09/11/2023
The explorer Matthew Flinders described the cove at West Bay on Middle Percy Island as "one of the prettiest little places imaginable". The largest of the three islands in the group, Middle Percy is a favourite stop for cruising yachtsmen en-route between the tropical north and southern seas. An A-frame hut on the beach at West Bay is decorated with memorabilia and souvenirs from these yachts. After a short zodiac ride to the beach at West Bay, you can relax on this picture postcard beach or take a refreshing swim in the clear waters. For the more energetic, there are walking trails where you may catch a glimpse of some of the native and introduced wildlife.
10 November 2023 - Lady Musgrave Island
Arrival 10/11/2023
Departure 10/11/2023
Lady Musgrave is an uninhabited 14 hectares coral cay on Australia's Great Barrier Reef. This island is a nesting place for green turtles and loggerhead turtles. It also attracts large numbers of birds including Wedge-tailed shearwaters (Mutton Birds) which nest in burrows in the ground. Small white tip reef sharks and leopard sharks can be seen in the shallows around the island, while the coral lagoon, with its multitude of fish and coral species, is perfect for snorkelling.
11 November 2023 - Fraser Island
Arrival 11/11/2023
Departure 11/11/2023
Lying off the coast of Queensland just south of the Great Barrier Reef, Fraser is the world’s largest sand island. Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1992 for its outstanding natural universal values, Fraser Island is characterised by long uninterrupted white beaches, strikingly coloured sand cliffs, majestic tall rainforests and numerous crystal clear freshwater lakes. Called K'gari by its Aboriginal inhabitants, the island contains many sites of archaeological, social and spiritual significance dating back more than 5,000 years. After a short tender transfer ashore, Guests can enjoy a coach tour of Fraser Island taking in Lake McKenzie, the rainforest at Central Station and the giant stands of Satinay trees at Pile Valley.
12 November 2023 - At sea
Arrival 12/11/2023
Departure 12/11/2023
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.
13 November 2023 - Brisbane
Arrival 13/11/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 13/11/2023 at 07:00
The sunny capital of Queensland awaits on the edge of Moreton Bay on Australia's East coast. Discover the abundance of tropical plants in the nearby Brisbane Botanic Gardens. The Queensland Museum is one of the Queensland Cultural Centre's five cultural venues and one of the city's crown jewels. Delve into local history and find out more about this Australian state's astonishing past. A stone's throw away are the spectacular green spaces of the South Bank Parklands, a contemporary district dotted with restaurants, cafés and shops.
Le Lapérouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance and with five-star service.
The Blue Eye, a multisensorial underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Up to 184 Guests
92 staterooms & suites
118 crew members
Spa
2 restaurants
Decks
Tropical Expedition
Explore the planet’s most remote tropical regions during a PONANT expedition cruise. In the heart of Oceania’s archipelagos or the Indian Ocean atolls, along the wild coastlines of Central America or Australia, our luxury amenities and services will make your expedition cruise an unforgettable experience. Our expedition leaders and their teams of naturalist guides devise exceptional itineraries and organise daily outings, shore visits in Zodiac® dinghies, or snorkelling when the cruises are conducive to it, to take you as close as possible to nature. Aboard the ship, they share their knowledge during lectures on a variety of topics such as the fauna and flora, the history of the great explorations, geology and climatology. On land, using the local transport options or during hikes, discover the must-see natural sites and, for a few hours, partake in the life and ancestral customs of the local populations.