Le Soleal, 16 Night New Guinea Odyssey ex Darwin, NT, Australia to Cairns, Qld, Australia

PONANT invites you to embark on board Le Soléal for an 17-day tropical expedition cruise to discover the sublime natural landscapes of Indonesia and Papua New Guinea.

From Darwin, you will be sailing in the Maluku Islands, dubbed the “Spice Islands”. You will sail to the Kei Islands, located in the heart of the Moluccas. These hidden jewels, surrounded by incredibly blue water, are home to some of Indonesia’s most beautiful white sandy beaches. You will discover Banda Neira, shaped by Dutch and Portuguese influences.

Then, you will sail to the heart of Triton Bay. Located within a protected marine environment in the middle of the Coral Triangle, you will enjoy an unforgettable zodiac cruise through the spectacular rainforest capped karst islands.

Le Soléal will continue to sail in the Indonesian province of West Papua to allow you to admire the superb natural site of Kitikiti Waterfall where you could enjoy a swim or snorkel surrounded by lush nature, both on land and under water.

As you voyage across Western New Guinea you will experience the spectacular Cenderawasih Bay, with an unforgettable opportunity to swim with whale sharks.

Your ship will then set sail for Papua New Guinea, a fascinating land that is home to no fewer than 700 ethnic groups within a highly diverse yet mainly unexplored, ecosystem.

In the village of Kopar, situated at the mouth of the Sepik River, you will be welcomed with cultural performances and will witness life in a traditional village.

Your call at Tufi, will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your voyage. You will fall under the charm of this picturesque region, dubbed the “Scandinavia of the Tropics”, with its deep fiords or locally known ‘rias’ formed through volcanic activity. In this unique setting the local Papuan tribes will share their customs, beliefs and artwork with you.

You will then head north along the coast to Madang, nicknamed "the most beautiful city in the South Pacific”. Within this attractive province with great geographical diversity, 170 different languages are spoken.

Your call at Tufi will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your voyage. Dubbed the “Scandinavia of the Tropics”, you will be charmed by the picturesque vista of Fjords and lush mangrove forests where you will be welcomed by Papuan tribes keen to share their culture and art with you.

The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.

Designed in 2013 and loyal to the PONANT spirit, Le Soléal like her sisterships embodies the subtle alliance between luxury, intimacy and wellbeing which is Ponant’s signature. The elegance of her exterior and interior lines and her intimate size (only 132 staterooms and suites)make this a rare and innovative yacht on the cruise market.

Interior Design:
With her fluid lines and a modern colour scheme combining natural wood with shades of grey and white, Le Soléal presents references to a nautical theme.

EXPERIENCE CRUISING ANOTHER WAY, DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF YACHT CRUISES.

Our mission is to transport you to mythical destinations and secret ports only accessible to small capacity ships.

To offer the delights of a French-inspired cuisine in an intimate environment - a discreet service where no attention to detail is spared - and unforgettable moments of relaxation on board elegant yachts of character.

To combine sophistication and conviviality, with priority given to authentic experiences, emotions and the ongoing quest for excellence.

Yacht cruises: more than a cruise, a privilege...

Attentive, professional, discreet and elegant, the fully bilingual service on board will meet your every desire. Our unique atmosphere is filled with a signature sentiment: a warm welcome from an experienced crew who are passionate about what they do, in the tradition of private yachting.

In the dining areas, our gourmet cuisine is worthy of top fine dining restaurants: exquisite wines are available, and menus are created with expertise by our skilled chefs with a French-inspired menu enhanced by specialties from our various ports of call.

Pleasure, enrichment, discovery: relax - we take care of everything...