Le Bougainville, 10 Night Namibian & South African Coastlines ex Walvis Bay, Namibia to Durban, South Africa

Set sail on an all-new, unforgettable 11-day cruise aboard Le Bougainville to explore the shores of Namibia and South Africa. From one ocean to another, from Walvis Bay to Durban, explore southern Africa’s incredible scenery, flamboyant wildlife and bustling cities.

Over the course of your trip, at every port of call, each guest will be able to choose one included excursion from the selection offered by PONANT. On this cruise, from Lüderitz, visit the ghost town of Kolmanskop and its colonial buildings now overrun by sand; discover the spectacular Cape of Good Hope and its unique biodiversity from Cape Town; or admire the elephants in Addo Elephant National Park during a safari, from Port Elizabeth. The range of experiences on offer promises a great time with lots of variety (for the full list of excursions, click on the Itinerary tab).

On the Atlantic coast, facing an untameable ocean, lies the Namib Desert, the oldest in the world. In Walvis Bay, where your adventure begins, nature has sculpted the sand into mountains, sheer drops, ochre and rust-coloured waves in perpetual motion. In this erg listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, silence reigns supreme. And yet this place is teeming with life. Zebras and springboks wash here, while in the neighbouring lagoon, the natural barrier formed by Pelican Point offers thousands of flamingos and cormorants, as well as one of the largest colonies of Cape fur seals, a choice refuge. In Namibia, the desert is king. This is clearly evident in the ghost town of Kolmanskop. A few kilometres from Lüderitz and its pastel-coloured houses clinging to the cliffs, the sand has long since reclaimed the homes of the German settlers, shrouding the abandoned houses in perpetual mystery.

In stark contrast to the serenity of the desert, the bustling cities of South Africa will immerse you in a unique cultural kaleidoscope. Dominated by the distinctive silhouette of Table Mountain, Cape Town reveals its lively streets and colourful gastronomy. After rounding the mythical Cape of Good Hope, discover Port Elizabeth. Known as the “Friendly City” for its hospitality, it is also the gateway to Addo Elephant National Park, famous for its elephants and other iconic African animals. From East London and its beaches of fine sand located on the Sunshine Coast, meet the Xhosa community before your next stop, Durban. In the KwaZulu-Natal region, the cradle of Zulu culture, this city of African, Indian and colonial influences is a perfect example of the term ‘Rainbow Nation’. This is where your journey will end, along the white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean.

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

As the first ship in a new series that remains true to the Ponant spirit, Le Bougainville 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...