Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
Volcanic landscapes from Canary Islands to Cape Verde
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands - Dakar
Dates:
11/25/2025
to
12/5/2025
days
nights on board
Between the volcanic archipelagos of Cape Verde and the Canary Islands, PONANT invites you an unforgettable 11-day interlude, leaving from Las Palmas. This journey aboard Le Bougainville will take you into the heart of uniquely and wildly beautiful landscapes, featuring majestic volcanos, lush green valleys, isolated inlets, verdant cliffs and historic cities with multiple sources of heritage.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, wander the virgin expanses of the island of Santo Antão from Mindelo, explore the Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from La Gomera, or discover the historic town of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
Your cruise will begin on the island of Gran Canaria in Las Palmas, where Le Bougainville will take to the sea, sailing west to reach the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura. In Puerto del Rosario, you will be able to admire the old town and its Canarian-style houses protected by high walls, the narrow streets and the long, sandy beach.
Your ship will then drop anchor at Lanzarote, or the Island of Fire. This inspiring, enigmatic and mysterious island reveals itself in a captivating setting composed of majestic peaks, volcanic vineyards and pristine national parks. It is also renowned for its many volcanic tunnels and caves offering unique moments in a fascinating underground world.
Then your ship will take to the sea, sailing east to reach Santa Cruz de Tenerife. In these lands of a thousand contrasts, dominated by the emblematic silhouette of the Teide stratovolcano, discover the unique and fascinating landscapes found in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Teide National Park.
Le Bougainville will then drop anchor at La Gomera. This tiny island with lush vegetation is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its biosphere reserve. This island is also renowned for its whistling language, Silbo, that the inhabitants use to communicate from one valley to another.
Le Bougainville will then sail further south, heading for Cape Verde. On the Islands, formed from volcanic lava and sculpted by the power of the Atlantic’s waves, you will experience the raw beauty of incomparable nature. Soft music rises from Mindelo, the music of Cesária Évora, “the Barefoot Diva”, who is inextricably linked to her island and her town, where she remains revered. The pastel colours of the façades and the former colonial buildings dot the Cape Verdean towns and villages that you will discover from the sea. Then, you will explore Praia, the capital of Cape Verde with its diverse influences, planted with tamarind and silk trees. Wherever you go, you will be captivated by the markets with their bright colours and fragrance-filled stalls.
The final port of call of this journey is Dakar, the Senegalese capital renowned for the appeal of its districts and its diverse natural environment.
Ref : EG251125
Your itinerary
A unique cruise discovering some of the natural treasures of Cape Verde and the Canary Islands. Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
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Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE BORÉAL
L'AUSTRAL
L'AUSTRAL
11/5/2025 to the 11/23/2025
LE CHAMPLAIN
12/3/2025 to the 12/13/2025
*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.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- 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:
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.
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 unique cruise discovering some of the natural treasures of Cape Verde and the Canary Islands.
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites UNESCO World Heritage Site: Garajonay National Park in La Gomera, Teide National Park and the town of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, on the island of Tenerife.
- The varied landscapes of two exceptional archipelagos: Cape Verde and the Canary Islands.
- The town of Mindelo in Cape Verde with its elegant buildings influenced by its British and Portuguese colonial heritage.
- Discover Arrecife in Lanzarote and its moonscapes.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
November 25, 2025 - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands
Embarkation 11/25/2025 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 11/25/2025 at 8:00 PM
A stopover of sunny climes, Las Palmas is located on the north-east coast of Gran Canaria. A few streets away from Puerto de la Luz port, you’ll discover the vast Las Canteras beach, bordered with the town’s characteristic palms. You’ll find these palms are all over Las Palmas, in the streets and squares, especially on the plaza de Santa Ana in the heart of the historical district. It feels like you’ve travelled back in time here, as you stand looking at the tall houses beside the Santa Ana cathedral. Very close by, you can visit the Casa de Colón, a museum dedicated to the famous explorer. The museum is housed in the palace belonging to the island’s former governor. Chances are, you’ll be drawn to the covered Vegueta market to partake in some daily life along with the locals and taste some unfamiliar dishes.
November 26, 2025 - Los Cristianos, Canary Islands
Arrival 11/26/2025 early morning
Departure 11/26/2025 mid afternoon
Discover the charming village of Los Cristianos, in the south of the island of Tenerife. While the former fishing town is edged by some beautiful fine-sand beaches, it is also known for the two protected nature reserves that surround it – Mount Chayofita and Mount Guaza. Both are ideal for hiking and for admiring the captivating views, facing the North Atlantic. Authentic and festive, Los Cristianos is also famous for its many water-based activities, ranging from scuba diving to snorkelling and water sports.
November 27, 2025 - Arrecife de Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Arrival 11/27/2025 early morning
Departure 11/27/2025 late afternoon
Established on a coast sprinkled with cliffs, Arrecife has a pleasant beach and a lagoon full of charm, Charca of San Ginés, where the fishermen anchor their boats. The city also proposes places fed by history and culture, such as the castle San Gabriel, former fort of defense of the city.
November 28, 2025 - Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
Arrival 11/28/2025 early morning
Departure 11/28/2025 evening
The capital city of Tenerife is located on the north-east coast of the island. Close to the port is the monumental Plaza de España, bedecked with a fountain and plant sculptures. Around the plaza, you can admire the white marble Triunfo de la Candelaria obelisk, the historic casino of Santa Cruz and the majestic Guimerà theatre. Not far from here, the picturesque Iglesia de la Concepción church features the characteristic traits of Canaries architecture.
November 29, 2025 - La Estaca, Canary Islands
Arrival 11/29/2025 early morning
Departure 11/29/2025 early afternoon
With its particularly pleasant climate, El Hierro, the youngest of the Canary Islands, invites you to discover enchanting panoramas in an atmosphere of unrivalled calm and serenity. You will be captivated by the untouched natural environment, featuring a majestic volcano, lush forests, sheer cliffs and natural pools. Besides the treasures on land, you will also have the chance to discover its underwater environment. Teeming with life, it is a paradise for diving enthusiasts, since the island is home to the Punta de La Restinga Marine Reserve, its thousands of colourful fish and stunning underwater volcanic landscapes.
November 30, 2025 December 1, 2025 - At sea
Arrival 11/30/2025
Departure 12/1/2025
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.
December 2, 2025 - Mindelo
Arrival 12/2/2025 early morning
Departure 12/2/2025 early evening
Set on the shores of the Porto Grande bay on the north-west coast of São Vicente, Mindelo is considered to be Cape Verde's cultural capital. Here in singer Cesaria Evora's homeland, you can listen to real morna in the bars of the old town, where you can also sip the local grog, a Cape Verdian sugarcane spirit. A few streets from the elegant floating resort of Pont d'água you'll see the pastel-coloured houses and colonial buildings of the historical district. Other landmarks are the facades of the old Governor's Palace and the busy municipal market.
December 3, 2025 - Praia
Arrival 12/3/2025 early morning
Departure 12/3/2025 early evening
The capital of Cape Verde, Praia, is located on the southern tip of Santiago island. You can dally in the districts planted with Tamarind and Albizia trees. Above the harbour, the statue of Diogo Gomes pays homage to the man who discovered Cape Verde in 1460. A few streets away, in the old centre, the Ethnographic Museum presents the diversity of the archipelago’s cultural origins. Its historical building with transom windows is one of the city’s more unusual curiosities.
December 4, 2025 - At sea
Arrival 12/4/2025
Departure 12/4/2025
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.
December 5, 2025 - Dakar
Arrival 12/5/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 12/5/2025 at 8:00 AM
On the tip of the African continent, the buzzing capital of Senegal stretches along the narrow peninsula of Cape Verde. You may be overwhelmed by its sheer size, but Dakar will win you over with its richly diverse districts, appealing cultural scene and rich natural surroundings. In the historic centre, you'll enjoy the pell-mell of colours and tasty delights in Kermel market. Far from the effervescence of the city, Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as a place of remembrance, having once been a slave trade outpost. On the other side of the plateau, the wild Madeleine islands are protected by a national park.
Las Cañadas del Teide
This excursion will take you to the stunning landscapes of Las Cañadas National Park.
Meet your guide and board your coach for a journey through impressive chromatic changes in both landscape and vegetation that are impressive as you travel to Las Cañadas del Teide, which is located inside the crater of Mount Teide. The green backdrop gradually changes to grey, ochre, red and even blue, with the magnificent Mount Teide in the background. The Mount is Spain's highest mountain at 3,718 m above sea level.
On the way up, a few photo stops will be made to immortalize the moment and appreciate the incredible volcanic landscapes and views.
Before entering the national park, you will have a coffee-stop at a local restaurant surrounded by stunning nature and lava rock formations.
The journey continues to Los Roques de Garcia, at the entrance to Las Cañadas del Teide National Park, a protected territory since 1954, which today covers an area of 18,990 hectares.
In June 2007, Unesco awarded it World Heritage status. The national park is actually the interior of the Teide crater and is home to extensive and unique endemic flora and fauna.
Finally, you will stop on the slopes of Mount Teide for a short walk through the lava fields. This is home to one of Tenerife's most photographed and famous icons, El Roque Cinchado (known as God's Finger), a curious lava rock formation that resembles a finger.
After this adventure, you will board your coach to return to the dock and your ship.
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This tour involves 1.5 km of walking over flat but uneven surfaces. There are some stairs to negotiate. It is recommended you wear comfortable walking shoes. It is forbidden to remove any stones or plants from the National Park. This excursion will travel up some mountain roads to approximately 7,000 feet above sea level. This tour is not recommended to passengers who suffer from heart problems or have previously undergone heart surgery, pregnant women, and thos suffering from respiratory problems including asthma or infants under the age of 1 year. This tour is subject to weather conditions and its itinerary may vary. A warm jacket is recommended as the temperatures can be cooler at the height reached during this tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Kayak at Los Cristianos Beach
Kayaking in Tenerife allows you to discover the island's coastline, with its fascinating variety of landscapes and marine wildlife.
You will meet your kayaking instructor and guide on the pier and take a 20 minute walk with him to Los Cristianos Beach.
There, you will have a safety briefing before boarding your kayak for a nice 2 hour activity accompanied by your professional guide.
From the beach, you will head to the rocks at Palm-Mar, which offer impressive views of cliffs and rock formations, as well as coves, caves and caverns. You will be delighted by the contrast between the deep blue of the sea and the colors of the cliffs.
Then, you will follow your guide to a special place where sea turtles live. You will put on your snorkel gear, jump in the water and go snorkelling with you instructor to try and observe these lovely animals. The snorkelling will last 30 minutes. Palm-Mar's waters are also home to many other species of fish and marine animals.
You will get back on your kayak and continue paddling in Palm-Mar to enjoy Tenerife’s scenery, before paddling back to the beach.
You will leave your material and your instructor and will be free to enjoy some time at the beach or discover the town before heading back to the ship.
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The activity will be only carried out with an English-speaking instructor. Passengers must be fit and know how to swim and immerse themselves in water. The average temperature of the water is 19/20°C. We recommend that passengers bring a swimsuit, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, flip flops (or shoes that can go in the water – rubber sole water shoes), a towel, a Lycra or thermal Lycra and change if necessary. We recommend bringing a bottle of water. Please note that timing may vary due to weather conditions. The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Santa Cruz History and tapas
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of Tenerife, is located in the northeast of the island.
Among its avenues and parks, the old town is packed with historic buildings and artists' sculptures.
You will meet your guide and board your coach for an hour-long drive to the capital.
From Plaza España, with your guide, you will enjoy a guided walking tour that will give you the opportunity to learn about the history of Santa Cruz. You will pass iconic historic buildings, as well as churches, parks filled with wonderful flora, and sculptures in the streets. You will have the opportunity to appreciate its beauty today and learn about its development and the important role it's played over the centuries, while enjoying its monuments.
Next, you will continue your stroll past the Church of San Francisco, the Plaza del Principe with its romantic garden and get to see the "Chicharro" statue, before passing the provincial Parliament.
You will continue on to the oldest part of the city, after discovering the Guímera Theatre, La Recova, Carta House, and the Church of La Concepción.
Finally, you will end up at a popular bodega in the city's old quarter. Experience the bodega like the "Chicharreros" while enjoying tapas and wine and watching the people around you.
Finally, you will board your coach for a pleasant trip back to the pier and your ship.
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The tour includes 1.5 km of walking on flat but uneven surfaces and cobbled streets. It takes approximately 2 ½ hours to complete. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hiking Las Cañadas del Teide
Meet your expert hiking guide on the pier, board your coach and drive through Esperanza Forest, a cool pine forest with sporadic eucalyptus vegetation and tantalizing glimpses of the Teide, Spain’s highest peak.
You are sure to be impressed by the chromatic changes in the landscape on the way to Las Cañadas del Teide National Park.
The park, the largest of the Canary Islands, today covers an area of 18,898 hectares and includes the enormous crater from which the majestic cone of Mount Teide (Pico Teide) emerges, rising to an altitude of 3,718 m. The park consists of a unique landscape of craters, volcanoes and rivers of petrified lava that surrounded the Mount. It was declared a national park in 1954, and in 2007, it was designated a Unesco World Heritage Site.
You will start and finish your hike at Los Roques de Garcia. During the approximately 5km hike, you will marvel at the different views of the lava formations and be impressed by the landscape around you.
After your walk, you will reboard your coach and head to a nearby restaurant for a well-deserved lunch.
Finally, with your head full of images taht seem to have come from another planet, you will drive back to the pier and your coach.
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The hiking will be carried out only with an English-speaking guide. Passengers must be in good physical condition and be prepared to walk 5 km over uneven, inclined, uphill and downhill surfaces. Guests are advised to wear comfortable hiking shoes, a wind jacket and loose layered clothing. A parent or guardian must accompany children under the age of 12. Participants should take a backpack with them for belongings and bring enough water to stay hydrated during the hike. It is forbidden to remove any stones or plants from the National Park. This tour might be cancelled last minute due to weather conditions. Timing may vary due to weather conditions, including opening or closing venues.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Panoramic West tour of El Hierro
Meet your guide on the pier, board your coach and enjoy a panoramic tour to some of the highlights of the island. Enjoy the landscapes and you will make the most of the different stops along the way.
For your first stop you will head to the North of the island to La Maceta, a place where you can admire the natural pools (of various sizes) bathed by the waves of the sea and protected from them. Then, you will have the opportunity to discover the famous Pozo de la Salud, a very popular place on the island known for its well with a source of mineral waters that has been credited with having curative properties since the 19th century.
You will continue to the Orchilla Lighthouse, where the so-called "end of the world" is located, this place will leave you breathless due to its impressive volcanic landscape that contrasts with the building in which the lighthouse is built.
Your last stop will allow you to visit the most important sanctuary of El Hierro, the "Ermita de la Virgen de los Reyes", which is the house of the patron saint of the island. Its white walls amidst the trees, will make you feel like you are in a magical place. The story goes that the Virgen de los Reyes miraculously provided the island's inhabitants with rainwater during one of the island's worst periods of drought.
Finally, you will drive back to the pier to your ship.
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The tour involves approximately 1 km of walking over cobblestone, rocky and uneven surfaces at viewpoints. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, comfortable clothes, sunglasses, a hat, and bring a bottle of water.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Nature and flavours of El Hierro
You will meet your guide, board your coach and drive through the incredible landscapes of El Hierro.
First, you will head south to the viewpoint of Mirador de Isora, situated at 1050 metres above sea level. From there, you can admire the incredible cliffs that fall into the Atlantic Ocean along a 9-kilometre-long amphitheatre.
Then, you will continue your route through one of the largest tunnels of the Canaries to reach the outstanding eco-museum of “Guinea”. In addition to old farmhouses, typically furnished as they were in the last century, you will see a centre for the recuperation of El Hierro’s giant lizard. It is the best place to learn more about this endemic species of a giant lizard, rediscovered in 1975. The giant lizard is in danger of extinction and is one of the symbol of the island.
Last, you will reboard your coach and drive to the spectacular viewpoint “Mirador de la Peña”, a visionary building designed by the well-known Canarian architect César Manrique. Here, you will enjoy the exceptional view over the Gulf valley, with its countless greenhouses that protect the bananas from strong winds.
At the local restaurant, you will enjoy a tasting of different local delicacies while admiring this beautiful landscape.
Finally, you will drive back to the pier and your ship.
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The tour involves approximately 2 km of walking over cobblestone, rocky and uneven surfaces. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and to wear warm clothes as well. Please note that tour could be rerouted by adverse weather conditions!
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mindelo off road adventure
From the pier, you will board your 4x4 for a panoramic tour of the island of São Vicente, through breathtaking landscapes.
In the heart of unspoilt nature, your adventure will take you from the north coast to the south coast to Palha Carga Beach - a one-kilometre-long beach just for you. On the way, you will stop at Assomada to take pictures from the highest viewpoint on the island.
After enjoying a stop at a black sand beach and crossing the agricultural valley of the island, Ribeira de Calhau, you will stop inside the small crater of Topim and observe the uninhabited islands of Santa Luzia, Raso and Branco. Enjoy the beauty of the turquoise waters and white sand of Saragarça Beach and be seduced by the natural caves along the coast, formed at the end of a lava flow, with the backdrop of the Viana crater on your left and the view of Santa Luzia on your right. With a little luck, you may have the privilege to see ospreys (fish eagles).
Then, you will visit the fishing village of Calhau, with its colourful wooden sailboats and its typical Cape Verdean atmosphere before returning to you ship.
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This excursion is a panoramic tour (3 hours’ drive with photo stops) in an all-terrain vehicle and involves walking on rough roads with some steps. The vehicles used are local and do not have air conditioning or a sound system. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Each vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 2 passengers. Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for people with back or neck problems. There are no toilets during the tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Santo Antao, the authentic island
From the pier, board your van for a transfer to the national harbour, from where you will board a ferry for the one-hour ride to the neighbouring island of Santo Antao.
Upon your arrival, you will start your exploration with a panoramic drive along the coast to the greenest, almost tropical valley on the archipelago, the Paúl Valley, 1 ½ hour drive.
Here, you will start a moderate hike through splendid nature and through different plantations, enjoying the lushness of this valley and the friendliness of the population and their rural way of living. This valley is a main provider of the archipelago's produce, which includes bananas, potatoes, lettuce, papaya, mangos and breadfruit.
In the middle of this peaceful scenery, you will take a break to enjoy some of the fresh fruit that you can readily find in here. In this spectacular valley, you will see lots of sugarcane, which is used to make the local liquor, called Grogue. After your hike, you will visit a traditional sugar cane distillery with a "trapiche", a large press. You will have an introduction into the local grogue rum. No visit would be complete without a tasting.
Back aboard your van, head along the breathtaking coastline as, you make your way towards the fishing village of Ponta do Sol for a short guided visit. Next, you will head into the Valley of Ribeira Grande, where you will enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant.
Then, you will reboard your vehicle and pass along the former trading route, where you will have spectacular views into different valleys, and formations of the volcanic mountains. One of the highlights of this road is the view into the Cova crater, which is the birthplace of this island. Today, the rich soil found in the crater is perfect for farming and the crater floor is spotted with different types of agriculture, including corn.
After making your way over the mountain ridge, you will begin your descent onto the other side of the island and back to the harbour in Porto Novo.
Finally, you will take the ferry for the cruise back to Mindelo and your ship.
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The transportation used is local and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. This excursion involves approximately 0.6 miles (1 km) of walking over uneven terrain with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must be in good physical condition. The former trading route is narrow and winding and is not recommended for guests suffering from motion sickness.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Praia & Cidade Velha
Welcome to the largest and most African of the Cape Verde islands. This tour will take you to the heart of the recent capital, Praia, where you will discover the contrast between its history and the modern atmosphere that reigns there.
From the pier, you will meet your guide and drive to "the Plateau". There, you will start your guided walking tour of the historical centre of Praia. You will visit the Ethnological Museum which is located in a historic Portuguese colonial building. Your guide will tell you more about the way of life of the first inhabitants.
Afterwards, you will go to Cidade Velha which you will reach after 30 minutes of driving. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is the original capital of the Cape Verde Islands and the cradle of the slave trade.
Ribeira Grande, now known as Cidade Velha (“old city”), is the oldest city in Cape Verde Islands and was the first European settlement in the tropics. A colony was founded in 1462 by Antonio de Noli and prospered due to its prominent position in the slave trade. It became a city in 1572 and got a cathedral which was completed late in 1693. The great explorers Christopher Colombus and Vasco de Gama both stopped here on their respective expeditions, Christopher Colombus on his third voyage to the Americas in 1498, and Vasco de Gama on his way to India in 1497.
Before arriving, you will visit the ruins of the old Fort of Real do Sao Filipe, which overlooks the Cidade Velha. It was built in 1590 to protect Ribeira Grande after a devastating attack by the pirate Francis Drake. This defence soon proved insufficient and in 1712 the city was sacked again by the French pirate Jacques Cassart.
Once in the heart of Cidade Velha, you will discover the remains left by the first Portuguese settlers. You will visit its Cathedral, then you will walk along the Rua Banana and the Pelourinho, a pillory dating from the 16th century. Near these picturesque cobblestone streets, you will enjoy a coffee to the sound of the drums of a batuco group that will offer you a traditional dance performance.
After discovering the soul of this island, you will return to the port of Praia and your ship.
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This excursion involves approximately 1.5 km of walking over cobblestone streets with some steps. The transportation used is local bus and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. Euros banknotes are accepted at the souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Le Bougainville
Welcoming and spacious common areas, refined open-to-the-sea design, sleek exterior lines, a marina to make access to the ship's zodiac inflatables easier, hi-tech equipment, an outdoor pool, a multisensorial underwater lounge… Le Bougainville represents the new generation of ships designed to combine discovery and exploration with luxury, even in the planet's most remote and isolated regions.
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
WALKING TOUR AND WINE TASTING (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 – Las Palmas
Meet at Las Palmas Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Santa Catalina Royal Hideway 5*. Check-in from 2 pm.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 – Las Palmas
After breakfast and check-out, your walking guided visit will be first focus on Vegueta, Las Palmas’s old colonial area.
Next, enjoy a drive through one of the greenest valleys of the island, “Valle de Agaete” to reach a local winery. An intense citrus scent will meet your noses just getting off your transportation. The winery is blessed with lime and lemon trees scenting the entrance.
On the way, the owner will talk you through all the local vegetation and plants : crops, trees, flowers, and plants as far as your eyes can reach.
Enjoy a delicious tasting.
Next stop will be the lovely village of Arucas, a historical and artistic small town that you will discover through a relaxing walking tour.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Las Palmas to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel :
The Santa Catalina Royal Hideway 5* is located close to the Las Palmas marina and surrounded by beautiful gardens. The city centre and the old town is a 10-minute drive or a 30 minutes easy walk. The hotel features an outside pool, 3 restaurants, a rooftop bar, a wellness centre and a fitness centre. All rooms are fully equipped with air-conditioning, a flat screen TV and a bathroom with a rain-effect shower.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes :
- 1-night accommodation in Deluxe room at Santa Catalina Royal Hideway 5*(local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
- Meals as mentioned in the programme.
- Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine and 1 coffee or tea).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking guide on day 2.
Your programme does not include :
- Dinner on day 1.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
- Early check-in and late check-out.
Please note :
- It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
- The walking tour in the old town involves walking on paved and uneven terrain.
- Official check-in at 2:00 pm.
- Official check-out at 12:00.
Contact of your hotel :
Santa Catalina Royal Hideway 5*
León y Castillo, 227
35005 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Spain
Telephone number : +34 928 24 30 40
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent ; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $450
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.TRANSFER FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE PIER OF LAS PALMAS
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Las Palmas
Meet at Las Palmas airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
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The transfer as mentioned in the programme.
-
Services of a local English-speaking assistance.
Your programme does not include:
-
Tips for the driver and local guide.
-
Personal expenses.
-
Other services not mentioned in the programme.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.Total : $100
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Las Cañadas del Teide
This excursion will take you to the stunning landscapes of Las Cañadas National Park.
Meet your guide and board your coach for a journey through impressive chromatic changes in both landscape and vegetation that are impressive as you travel to Las Cañadas del Teide, which is located inside the crater of Mount Teide. The green backdrop gradually changes to grey, ochre, red and even blue, with the magnificent Mount Teide in the background. The Mount is Spain's highest mountain at 3,718 m above sea level.
On the way up, a few photo stops will be made to immortalize the moment and appreciate the incredible volcanic landscapes and views.
Before entering the national park, you will have a coffee-stop at a local restaurant surrounded by stunning nature and lava rock formations.
The journey continues to Los Roques de Garcia, at the entrance to Las Cañadas del Teide National Park, a protected territory since 1954, which today covers an area of 18,990 hectares.
In June 2007, Unesco awarded it World Heritage status. The national park is actually the interior of the Teide crater and is home to extensive and unique endemic flora and fauna.
Finally, you will stop on the slopes of Mount Teide for a short walk through the lava fields. This is home to one of Tenerife's most photographed and famous icons, El Roque Cinchado (known as God's Finger), a curious lava rock formation that resembles a finger.
After this adventure, you will board your coach to return to the dock and your ship.
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This tour involves 1.5 km of walking over flat but uneven surfaces. There are some stairs to negotiate. It is recommended you wear comfortable walking shoes. It is forbidden to remove any stones or plants from the National Park. This excursion will travel up some mountain roads to approximately 7,000 feet above sea level. This tour is not recommended to passengers who suffer from heart problems or have previously undergone heart surgery, pregnant women, and thos suffering from respiratory problems including asthma or infants under the age of 1 year. This tour is subject to weather conditions and its itinerary may vary. A warm jacket is recommended as the temperatures can be cooler at the height reached during this tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Kayak at Los Cristianos Beach
Kayaking in Tenerife allows you to discover the island's coastline, with its fascinating variety of landscapes and marine wildlife.
You will meet your kayaking instructor and guide on the pier and take a 20 minute walk with him to Los Cristianos Beach.
There, you will have a safety briefing before boarding your kayak for a nice 2 hour activity accompanied by your professional guide.
From the beach, you will head to the rocks at Palm-Mar, which offer impressive views of cliffs and rock formations, as well as coves, caves and caverns. You will be delighted by the contrast between the deep blue of the sea and the colors of the cliffs.
Then, you will follow your guide to a special place where sea turtles live. You will put on your snorkel gear, jump in the water and go snorkelling with you instructor to try and observe these lovely animals. The snorkelling will last 30 minutes. Palm-Mar's waters are also home to many other species of fish and marine animals.
You will get back on your kayak and continue paddling in Palm-Mar to enjoy Tenerife’s scenery, before paddling back to the beach.
You will leave your material and your instructor and will be free to enjoy some time at the beach or discover the town before heading back to the ship.
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The activity will be only carried out with an English-speaking instructor. Passengers must be fit and know how to swim and immerse themselves in water. The average temperature of the water is 19/20°C. We recommend that passengers bring a swimsuit, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, flip flops (or shoes that can go in the water – rubber sole water shoes), a towel, a Lycra or thermal Lycra and change if necessary. We recommend bringing a bottle of water. Please note that timing may vary due to weather conditions. The encounters with the wildlife described above illustrate possible experiences only and cannot be guaranteed.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Santa Cruz History and tapas
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of Tenerife, is located in the northeast of the island.
Among its avenues and parks, the old town is packed with historic buildings and artists' sculptures.
You will meet your guide and board your coach for an hour-long drive to the capital.
From Plaza España, with your guide, you will enjoy a guided walking tour that will give you the opportunity to learn about the history of Santa Cruz. You will pass iconic historic buildings, as well as churches, parks filled with wonderful flora, and sculptures in the streets. You will have the opportunity to appreciate its beauty today and learn about its development and the important role it's played over the centuries, while enjoying its monuments.
Next, you will continue your stroll past the Church of San Francisco, the Plaza del Principe with its romantic garden and get to see the "Chicharro" statue, before passing the provincial Parliament.
You will continue on to the oldest part of the city, after discovering the Guímera Theatre, La Recova, Carta House, and the Church of La Concepción.
Finally, you will end up at a popular bodega in the city's old quarter. Experience the bodega like the "Chicharreros" while enjoying tapas and wine and watching the people around you.
Finally, you will board your coach for a pleasant trip back to the pier and your ship.
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The tour includes 1.5 km of walking on flat but uneven surfaces and cobbled streets. It takes approximately 2 ½ hours to complete. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Hiking Las Cañadas del Teide
Meet your expert hiking guide on the pier, board your coach and drive through Esperanza Forest, a cool pine forest with sporadic eucalyptus vegetation and tantalizing glimpses of the Teide, Spain’s highest peak.
You are sure to be impressed by the chromatic changes in the landscape on the way to Las Cañadas del Teide National Park.
The park, the largest of the Canary Islands, today covers an area of 18,898 hectares and includes the enormous crater from which the majestic cone of Mount Teide (Pico Teide) emerges, rising to an altitude of 3,718 m. The park consists of a unique landscape of craters, volcanoes and rivers of petrified lava that surrounded the Mount. It was declared a national park in 1954, and in 2007, it was designated a Unesco World Heritage Site.
You will start and finish your hike at Los Roques de Garcia. During the approximately 5km hike, you will marvel at the different views of the lava formations and be impressed by the landscape around you.
After your walk, you will reboard your coach and head to a nearby restaurant for a well-deserved lunch.
Finally, with your head full of images taht seem to have come from another planet, you will drive back to the pier and your coach.
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The hiking will be carried out only with an English-speaking guide. Passengers must be in good physical condition and be prepared to walk 5 km over uneven, inclined, uphill and downhill surfaces. Guests are advised to wear comfortable hiking shoes, a wind jacket and loose layered clothing. A parent or guardian must accompany children under the age of 12. Participants should take a backpack with them for belongings and bring enough water to stay hydrated during the hike. It is forbidden to remove any stones or plants from the National Park. This tour might be cancelled last minute due to weather conditions. Timing may vary due to weather conditions, including opening or closing venues.
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Panoramic West tour of El Hierro
Meet your guide on the pier, board your coach and enjoy a panoramic tour to some of the highlights of the island. Enjoy the landscapes and you will make the most of the different stops along the way.
For your first stop you will head to the North of the island to La Maceta, a place where you can admire the natural pools (of various sizes) bathed by the waves of the sea and protected from them. Then, you will have the opportunity to discover the famous Pozo de la Salud, a very popular place on the island known for its well with a source of mineral waters that has been credited with having curative properties since the 19th century.
You will continue to the Orchilla Lighthouse, where the so-called "end of the world" is located, this place will leave you breathless due to its impressive volcanic landscape that contrasts with the building in which the lighthouse is built.
Your last stop will allow you to visit the most important sanctuary of El Hierro, the "Ermita de la Virgen de los Reyes", which is the house of the patron saint of the island. Its white walls amidst the trees, will make you feel like you are in a magical place. The story goes that the Virgen de los Reyes miraculously provided the island's inhabitants with rainwater during one of the island's worst periods of drought.
Finally, you will drive back to the pier to your ship.
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The tour involves approximately 1 km of walking over cobblestone, rocky and uneven surfaces at viewpoints. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, comfortable clothes, sunglasses, a hat, and bring a bottle of water.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Nature and flavours of El Hierro
You will meet your guide, board your coach and drive through the incredible landscapes of El Hierro.
First, you will head south to the viewpoint of Mirador de Isora, situated at 1050 metres above sea level. From there, you can admire the incredible cliffs that fall into the Atlantic Ocean along a 9-kilometre-long amphitheatre.
Then, you will continue your route through one of the largest tunnels of the Canaries to reach the outstanding eco-museum of “Guinea”. In addition to old farmhouses, typically furnished as they were in the last century, you will see a centre for the recuperation of El Hierro’s giant lizard. It is the best place to learn more about this endemic species of a giant lizard, rediscovered in 1975. The giant lizard is in danger of extinction and is one of the symbol of the island.
Last, you will reboard your coach and drive to the spectacular viewpoint “Mirador de la Peña”, a visionary building designed by the well-known Canarian architect César Manrique. Here, you will enjoy the exceptional view over the Gulf valley, with its countless greenhouses that protect the bananas from strong winds.
At the local restaurant, you will enjoy a tasting of different local delicacies while admiring this beautiful landscape.
Finally, you will drive back to the pier and your ship.
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The tour involves approximately 2 km of walking over cobblestone, rocky and uneven surfaces. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and to wear warm clothes as well. Please note that tour could be rerouted by adverse weather conditions!
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Mindelo off road adventure
From the pier, you will board your 4x4 for a panoramic tour of the island of São Vicente, through breathtaking landscapes.
In the heart of unspoilt nature, your adventure will take you from the north coast to the south coast to Palha Carga Beach - a one-kilometre-long beach just for you. On the way, you will stop at Assomada to take pictures from the highest viewpoint on the island.
After enjoying a stop at a black sand beach and crossing the agricultural valley of the island, Ribeira de Calhau, you will stop inside the small crater of Topim and observe the uninhabited islands of Santa Luzia, Raso and Branco. Enjoy the beauty of the turquoise waters and white sand of Saragarça Beach and be seduced by the natural caves along the coast, formed at the end of a lava flow, with the backdrop of the Viana crater on your left and the view of Santa Luzia on your right. With a little luck, you may have the privilege to see ospreys (fish eagles).
Then, you will visit the fishing village of Calhau, with its colourful wooden sailboats and its typical Cape Verdean atmosphere before returning to you ship.
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This excursion is a panoramic tour (3 hours’ drive with photo stops) in an all-terrain vehicle and involves walking on rough roads with some steps. The vehicles used are local and do not have air conditioning or a sound system. We recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Each vehicle can accommodate a maximum of 2 passengers. Wildlife viewing is not guaranteed. This tour is not recommended for people with back or neck problems. There are no toilets during the tour.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Santo Antao, the authentic island
From the pier, board your van for a transfer to the national harbour, from where you will board a ferry for the one-hour ride to the neighbouring island of Santo Antao.
Upon your arrival, you will start your exploration with a panoramic drive along the coast to the greenest, almost tropical valley on the archipelago, the Paúl Valley, 1 ½ hour drive.
Here, you will start a moderate hike through splendid nature and through different plantations, enjoying the lushness of this valley and the friendliness of the population and their rural way of living. This valley is a main provider of the archipelago's produce, which includes bananas, potatoes, lettuce, papaya, mangos and breadfruit.
In the middle of this peaceful scenery, you will take a break to enjoy some of the fresh fruit that you can readily find in here. In this spectacular valley, you will see lots of sugarcane, which is used to make the local liquor, called Grogue. After your hike, you will visit a traditional sugar cane distillery with a "trapiche", a large press. You will have an introduction into the local grogue rum. No visit would be complete without a tasting.
Back aboard your van, head along the breathtaking coastline as, you make your way towards the fishing village of Ponta do Sol for a short guided visit. Next, you will head into the Valley of Ribeira Grande, where you will enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant.
Then, you will reboard your vehicle and pass along the former trading route, where you will have spectacular views into different valleys, and formations of the volcanic mountains. One of the highlights of this road is the view into the Cova crater, which is the birthplace of this island. Today, the rich soil found in the crater is perfect for farming and the crater floor is spotted with different types of agriculture, including corn.
After making your way over the mountain ridge, you will begin your descent onto the other side of the island and back to the harbour in Porto Novo.
Finally, you will take the ferry for the cruise back to Mindelo and your ship.
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The transportation used is local and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. This excursion involves approximately 0.6 miles (1 km) of walking over uneven terrain with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Participants must be in good physical condition. The former trading route is narrow and winding and is not recommended for guests suffering from motion sickness.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Praia & Cidade Velha
Welcome to the largest and most African of the Cape Verde islands. This tour will take you to the heart of the recent capital, Praia, where you will discover the contrast between its history and the modern atmosphere that reigns there.
From the pier, you will meet your guide and drive to "the Plateau". There, you will start your guided walking tour of the historical centre of Praia. You will visit the Ethnological Museum which is located in a historic Portuguese colonial building. Your guide will tell you more about the way of life of the first inhabitants.
Afterwards, you will go to Cidade Velha which you will reach after 30 minutes of driving. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is the original capital of the Cape Verde Islands and the cradle of the slave trade.
Ribeira Grande, now known as Cidade Velha (“old city”), is the oldest city in Cape Verde Islands and was the first European settlement in the tropics. A colony was founded in 1462 by Antonio de Noli and prospered due to its prominent position in the slave trade. It became a city in 1572 and got a cathedral which was completed late in 1693. The great explorers Christopher Colombus and Vasco de Gama both stopped here on their respective expeditions, Christopher Colombus on his third voyage to the Americas in 1498, and Vasco de Gama on his way to India in 1497.
Before arriving, you will visit the ruins of the old Fort of Real do Sao Filipe, which overlooks the Cidade Velha. It was built in 1590 to protect Ribeira Grande after a devastating attack by the pirate Francis Drake. This defence soon proved insufficient and in 1712 the city was sacked again by the French pirate Jacques Cassart.
Once in the heart of Cidade Velha, you will discover the remains left by the first Portuguese settlers. You will visit its Cathedral, then you will walk along the Rua Banana and the Pelourinho, a pillory dating from the 16th century. Near these picturesque cobblestone streets, you will enjoy a coffee to the sound of the drums of a batuco group that will offer you a traditional dance performance.
After discovering the soul of this island, you will return to the port of Praia and your ship.
-
This excursion involves approximately 1.5 km of walking over cobblestone streets with some steps. The transportation used is local bus and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. Euros banknotes are accepted at the souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.