Le Jacques Cartier, 15 Night Island treasures of Indonesia and East Timor ex Benoa, Bali, Indonesia Return

PONANT invites you to set sail on a 16-day tropical expedition cruise aboard Le Jacques-Cartier discovering the stunning scenery of the Indonesian archipelago and East Timor. It is on these islands, scattered like a string of pearls at the far west of South-East Asia, that the fascinating transition from Asia to Oceania is most powerfully felt, through the peoples and landscapes encountered.

Timor, Flores, Sumbawa, Komodo, Banda Neira… Just mentioning these names is enough to conjure up images of spectacular blooms, wide emerald-coloured bays, island-volcanoes, villages peopled with inhabitants who have preserved their perennial traditions, and prehistoric animals. Not to mention hills covered in savannah, tropical forests, dazzling white sandy beaches and waves crashing down on the coral.

Your first port of call will be Flores, the flower island, followed by the Alor Archipelago, two destinations where the locals have successfully preserved their ancient, traditional way of life.

In the Moluccas (Maluku Islands), dubbed the Spice Islands, you will explore the island of Banda Neira, which was shaped by Dutch and Portuguese influences.

Le Jacques-Cartier will continue on to the Indonesian province of West Papua to give you the opportunity to admire the Kiti-Kiti Waterfall. Surrounded by lush vegetation, you will undoubtedly be tempted to swim or snorkel at the foot of this stunning natural site.

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.

You will reach a former Portuguese colony, and call at Baucau, between Portuguese atmosphere and beautiful sandy beaches. During your port of call in the Timorese capital, Dili will reveal to you the beauty of its intact landscapes, between tropical forest and immaculate sandy beaches, and also the riches of its historic and cultural heritage.

Le Jacques-Cartier will then make its way towards mysterious Komodo, a small, wild island whose national park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among other things, it is home to the famous Komodo dragons, gigantic monitor lizards that can grow more than three metres long. Here you will be able to see them in their natural environment.

Your ship will set sail for Badas on the island of Sumbawa. You will be welcomed by the inhabitants of Pamulung village, where you will be able to witness a traditional ceremony.

Your cruise will conclude in Bali – ‘the island of the gods’ – with its captivating charm and grace.

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

Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed staterooms, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yacht boasting just 92 staterooms and suites will offer you a truly unique cruising experience.

As the sixth ship in a new series that remains true to the Ponant spirit, Le Jacques Cartier will embody the unique atmosphere that is the cruise line’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy and comfort.

Aboard this ship that flies the French flag, you will experience the incomparable pleasure of an intimate cruise, with the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service.

Experience a luxurious setting where the accent is on authenticity and passion for travel.

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...