Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
An escapade in the heart of Melanesia
Darwin - Lautoka, Viti Levu Island
Dates:
8/21/2026
to
9/6/2026
days
nights on board
Leaving from Darwin, PONANT invites you to embark on board Le Jacques Cartier for a 17-day journey featuring idyllic landscapes, lush nature and ancestral civilisations with secular traditions. Set off to discover the ancestral lands of Australia and four Melanesian treasures: Papua New Guinea, the Vanuatu archipelago, the Solomons and the Fiji islands.
On cosmopolitan Thursday Island, in the far north of the Australian territory, make the most of a visit to discover the history of this part of the Pacific during the Second World War. The Jacques-Cartier will 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.
Setting sail for the Salomon Islands! You will stop over in Honiara on the large island of Guadalcanal, where exoticism and beauty go hand in hand, from paradisiacal waterfalls to lush green hills.
Then, the Jacques Cartier sails towards heavenly lands, where white sandy beaches encircle luxuriant forests with unique ecosystems, and legends and myths remain engraved in memories and traditions... In Port-Vila, capital of Vanuatu, you will relish the unforgettable sight of magnificent bays, a colonial heritage, paradise beaches and enchanting waterfalls. In Espiritu Santo, the archipelago's main island, you are sure to be captivated by the unspoilt seabed surrounding this luxuriant islet.
Your journey will end in Lautoka in Fiji, famous for its sugar cane crops.
Ref : EX210826
Your itinerary
A cruise into the heart of the South Pacific’s most beautiful archipelagos, discovering five countries: Australia, Papua New Guinea, the Salomon Islands, Vanuatu and Fiji. A port of call in Port-Vila, the...
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Your trip in detail
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Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
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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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
- Selection of Clarins 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
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:
- Snorkelling equipment will be offered onboard (for adults only).
- 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
Diving - Expedition Cruise
Supervision of the dives
Your dives will be led by your PONANT instructor. He will take care of your safety and that all goes smoothly. On some diving sites, as in natural reserves or if the local regulations require it, a local guide will escort the diving.
Level required for scuba diving on this cruise
The minimum level required for scuba diving on this cruise is 2 star CMAS or the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (or equivalent). The certification card, the diving log book and a recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to our main diving instructor.
Process of the dives (certified divers)
The instructor reserves the right to check divers’ ability for maximum safety. As we will dive in remote places, the dives will be done without decompression stop. A safety stop of 3 minutes at 5 metres will be mandatory. The depth that can be reached will depend on the certification of the divers:
- For those with PADI Advanced Open Water Diver certificate (or equivalent), the maximum depth can be up to 25 metres.
- If two PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) wish to dive together independently, they must have a briefing first. They must have dive computers and are allowed to go to a maximum depth of 20 metres.
Duration of the dives
The diving activity lasts from 2 to 3 hours, which includes the journey to the diving site and the diving. This duration may vary according to the site, the level of divers, weather conditions and the number of participants. For experienced divers, the duration of dives varies between 35 and 60 minutes depending on the site, the diver’s experience and consumption.
Supplied equipment
- Diving wetsuit
- Stabilising jacket
- Regulator with octopus and pressure gauge
- Diving computer (for divers mastering their use)
- Fins,
Mask and snorkel: for health reasons due to Covid-19, we strongly recommend that you come on board with your own mask and snorkel .As an exception, you will be able to borrow them in accordance with sanitary conditions.
The passenger may participate in scuba diving activities, subject to compliance with certain conditions established in accordance with the health, scientific and medical measures applicable on the day of the dive.
* within the limit of available stock.
Highlights
- A cruise into the heart of the South Pacific’s most beautiful archipelagos, discovering five countries: Australia, Papua New Guinea, the Salomon Islands, Vanuatu and Fiji.
- A port of call in Port-Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, in the very heart of a magical, unspoilt nature.
- From Espiritu Santo, don’t miss the unique performance from the ‘water music women’.
- The Solomon Islands, secret destination in the South Pacific and a real tropical Eden.
- Possibility of diving (PADI Open Water Diver or equivalent) with an experienced instructor on board.
Ports of Call & Excursions
August 21, 2026 - Darwin
Embarkation 8/21/2026 from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM
Departure 8/21/2026 at 5:30 PM
Darwin is located in Australia’s Northern Territory which is also known as the “Top End”. It is the capital city and the most populated town of the Northern Territory. Darwin is a beautiful tropical city, a melting pot of people and cultures, over 50 different cultures live and work side by side that prides itself in its unique and friendly laid-back lifestyle. Come discover the town’s still recent history through its emblematic buildings such as the new Parliamant House opened in 1994, a magnificent example of tropical architecture or Admiralty House declared heritage place, a tropical-style home elevated on stilts that has survived two cyclones and numerous air raids.
August 22, 2026 August 23, 2026 - At sea
Arrival 8/22/2026
Departure 8/23/2026
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.
August 24, 2026 - Thursday Island
Arrival 8/24/2026 early afternoon
Departure 8/24/2026 early evening
Located at Australiaﾒs northernmost tip, Thursday Island is one of more than a hundred in the Torres Strait ,between Cape York Peninsula and Papua New Guinea. The historic military fort of Green Hill offers magnificent views and you can discover more about the region and its pearling history at the Gab Titui Cultural Centre.
August 25, 2026 - At sea
Arrival 8/25/2026
Departure 8/25/2026
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.
August 26, 2026 - Port Moresby
Arrival 8/26/2026 early morning
Departure 8/26/2026 mid afternoon
Bathed by the Coral Sea, the port city of Port Moresby is located in the south-east of Papua New Guinea. From the underwater life of the Pacific to the summit of the Owen Stanley range of mountains, it is home to exceptionally rich fauna, making it a real natural sanctuary. Among others, there are species such as the Royal Goliath beetle or the mythical bird of paradise, which is the country’s emblem. The city has been undergoing profound change since 2010 with the rehabilitation of the port and the development of the seafront. Among the significant buildings, the APEC Haus is the symbol of the city. This futuristic-looking building is inspired by the crab-claw-shaped sail of the lakatoi, the boats used by the Motu tribe.
August 27, 2026 - Alotau
Arrival 8/27/2026 early afternoon
Departure 8/27/2026 evening
Alotau became the provincial capital of Milne Bay in 1969 and today has a population of approximately 16,000. It serves as our port of entry into Papua New Guinea. Missionaries, miners, pearlers, Japanese and American warships have all contributed to the History of Milne Bay. Perhaps the most significant history surrounds the Battle of Milne Bay. It was here that the invading Japanese army suffered their first land defeat in the Pacific War in 1942. A memorial park at the battle site commemorates the event. The local people are warm and welcoming resulting in one of the most relaxed, secure and easy-going towns in Papua New Guinea. Join your expedition team for a tour taking in the town markets and WWII memorials.
August 28, 2026 August 29, 2026 - At sea
Arrival 8/28/2026
Departure 8/29/2026
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.
August 30, 2026 - Honiara, Guadalcanal Island
Arrival 8/30/2026
Departure 8/30/2026 evening
Honiara is the capital city of The Solomon Islands, administered as a provincial town on the north-western coast of Guadalcanal Island. Honiara comes from the local Ghari Language “naho-ni-ara” meaning 'facing the ara', the place where the southeast winds meet the land. Discover this city, its beautiful landscape, and the significant role it played in World War II. Particularly The Battle of Henderson Field, the last of the three major land offensives conducted by the Japanese in 1942.
August 31, 2026 September 1, 2026 - At sea
Arrival 8/31/2026
Departure 9/1/2026
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.
September 2, 2026 - Espiritu Santo Island
Arrival 9/2/2026 early morning
Departure 9/2/2026 late afternoon
At the end of the world, in the north of New Caledonia, lies Vanuatu, a little archipelago that subsists mainly from fishing and farming. It is composed of several islands, Espiritu Santo being the largest and one of the most beautiful. You can meet the people here who are very welcoming and who live in harmony with nature. Plus you will see unimaginable landscapes formed of volcanic rocks, as well as sandy beaches and lagoons beckoning you to dive into their of turquoise waters. You will be surprised to find, in the middle of dense vegetation, brackish water with an amazing ecosystem called “blue holes”. If paradise exists, it must be here.
September 3, 2026 - Port Vila, Efate
Arrival 9/3/2026 early morning
Departure 9/3/2026 evening
Port Vila is the cradle of an insular harmony where time seems to stand still, a tropical pearl in Vanuatu emerging from the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, a place that inspires contemplation and daydreaming. Beneath an azure sky, the colourful markets reveal the very essence of Vanuatuan culture. The stalls here are overflowing with tropical fruit bursting with sunshine, while the artisans showcase their talents, weaving vegetable-fibre baskets and sculpting traditional masks with enigmatic faces. On the lush heights in the inland region of Vanuatu’s capital, the waterfalls whisper secret songs, creating an aquatic symphony that resonates in the heart of travellers in search of magic.
September 4, 2026 September 5, 2026 - At sea
Arrival 9/4/2026
Departure 9/5/2026
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.
September 6, 2026 - Lautoka, Viti Levu Island
Arrival 9/6/2026 early morning
Disembarkation 9/6/2026 at 8:00 AM
Lautoka is the second largest city of Fiji. Located on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, 24 kilometres north of Nadi. Lying in the heart of Fiji's sugar cane growing region, it is known as the Sugar City. Lautoka is the gateway to Fiji’s “Sun coast” a land of abundant sunshine, azure skies and dramatic grass-covered peaks chequered with sugar-cane fields, rural villages and quaint market towns.
Le Jacques Cartier
In keeping with the philosophy of PONANT and the PONANT EXPLORERS, Le Jacques-Cartier is a modern ship with slender, tapered lines, it is environmentally friendly and equipped with innovative technology.
Tastefully decorated, Le Jacques-Cartier reflects the universe so dear to PONANT, with its light tones and open-to-the-sea design providing soft light and luminosity at every instant of the day. Its ethnic chic ambiance pays homage to the destinations we visit.
Located below the waterline, the Blue Eye offers a unique experience: the opportunity to enjoy undersea views and the sounds of the marine world whilst sharing a glass together.
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.
No single supplement
FREE SINGLE SUPPLEMENT *
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
Diving
During an introduction to scuba diving or a more advanced dive for holders of the necessary certifications (level 1 on yachting cruises and 2 on expedition cruises), explore the planet’s most beautiful underwater environments in the company of a PONANT diving instructor, as well as a local instructor when required by local legislation. They will ensure that your dives are conducted smoothly and safely: supervision of four certified divers at a time, evaluation of diving skills and experience, adherence to safety stops, zones and the maximum depth authorised.
A recent medical certificate (less than 12 months) must be presented at the beginning of the cruise to the main diving instructor.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
8/19/2026 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN 1N (PRE) + EN ROUTE TO NADI AIRPORT (POST)
8/19/2026 - FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS IN BUSINESS CLASS + OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN 1N (PRE) + EN ROUTE TO NADI AIRPORT (POST)
OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN (1 NIGHT)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Darwin
Meet at Darwin 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 Adina Darwin Waterfront Apartments 4*.
Check in time is approximately 2:00pm.
Afternoon and evening at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Darwin
In late morning, you will check out of the hotel.
Day at leisure.
You will enjoy the facilities of your hotel until your transfer to Darwin harbour to board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Adina Darwin Waterfront Apartments is a modern establishment located by the waterfront, offering stunning views of Darwin Harbour. Ideally situated, it provides easy access to the city’s restaurants, shops, and markets. The warm and welcoming atmosphere complements the quality of the dedicated staff, ensuring an ideal setting for relaxation.
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 Standard Room at Darwin Waterfront Apartments, 4* local standards (or similar).
- Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
- The services of a local English-speaking assistance.
Your programme does not include:
- Meals and breakfast.
- Personal expenses.
- Visa if necessary.
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Early check-in and late check-out.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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.
- Official hotel check-in time is 2:00 p.m.
- Official hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.
- Early check-in or late check-out might be available depending on availability and on a supplement basis.
Contact of your hotel:
Adina Darwin Waterfront Apartments
7 Kitchener Drive,
Darwin City, Australia
Telephone: (+61) 8 8982 9999
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 : $260
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.EN ROUTE TO NADI AIRPORT
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Nadi
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
You will be transferred to the international airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
-
Transfer by coach from the port to the airport.
-
Services of a local English-speaking hostess.
Your programme does not include:
-
Tips for the driver and hostess.
-
Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration of the transfer 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 : $110
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS + OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN 1N (PRE) + EN ROUTE TO NADI AIRPORT (POST)
Total : $0
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.FLIGHTS FROM/TO PARIS IN BUSINESS CLASS + OVERNIGHT IN DARWIN 1N (PRE) + EN ROUTE TO NADI AIRPORT (POST)
Total : $0
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.