Award-winning upscale yacht cruise company, Compagnie du Ponant, invites travelers to explore the Caribbean on the seven-night “Fort-de-France – Fort-de-France” cruise – one of 17 itineraries available in its newly added Caribbean roster – with limited time savings of up to 20%. Offering an experience that can only be had on the smaller, more intimate ships, the 90-passenger Le Levant takes in several off-the-main-stream stops on its four round-trip sailings from the west coast of Martinique. Ports are spread throughout Grenada, also known as the “Island of Spice”; Venezuela, a melting pot of indigenous, African and Spanish culture; and Trinidad and Tobago, an archipelago with diverse landscape ranging from coral reefs to forest and savanna. The nature of the deluxe yacht and the focus of the company on experiential travel means the advantage of smaller ports and more time for in-depth exploration ashore. Fares are currently being offered at a 20% savings under Ponant’s Bonus program – the more in advance the booking, the greater the savings. Reduced prices range from $2,571 to $3,505 per person, double, for the Nov. 5 & 26, 2011 departures (regularly $3,213-$4,381) and $2,420 to $3,299 for departures on March 20 & 27, 2012 (regularly $3,024 to $4,123).
After embarking from Fort-de-France, the 330-foot Le Levant sails to St. George, the capital of Grenada, where red-roofed, pastel dwellings are nestled within tropical rainforests, white sand beaches and impressive waterfalls. Ports in Venezuela include the Orinoco Delta, a labyrinth-like river in the heart of Warao Indian Territory that wends its way through primal forest and mangrove swamps; Puerto Ordaz, the site of the Llovizna Falls; El Arroyo and Arature, deltas housing a wealth of wildlife that is described and pointed out by a nature guide; and El Toro, where guests can see life in an Indian village. Greeting guests in Trinidad and Tobago’s capital, Port of Spain, are exotic birds such as snowy egrets, white-necked herons and the scarlet ibis, seen nesting by the Caroni Swamp, and a vibrant nightlife. Continuing on to Grenadine, Le Levant pulls into Tobago Cays, where turquoise waters are home to colorful coral and tropical fish, before circling back to Fort-de-France.
Ponant’s philosophy is front and center on its cruises: designed for the traveler who prefers to explore off-the-beaten-path, unspoiled destinations, especially those out of sight of the large ship masses. Just as important to the guests’ experience as they trek around the world, is the on-board environment. The company prides itself on its discrete personalized service, assured with a staff to guest ratio of greater than 1:2, delicious cuisine – both haute and country French, stylish accommodations, elegant design, expansive sun decks and open-air restaurants.
Le Levant offers an intimate setting in a spacious environment for its 90 guests: two restaurants, a spacious lounge, several bars, a library, a swimming pool, a beauty and fitness area with sauna, and salon. A 4,300-square-foot Sun Deck provides plenty of space for relaxing in the sun and open air. Its 45 outside staterooms have an abundance of space and amenities – king size or twin beds, a desk, minibar, dressing table, marble baths with showers and L’Occitane amenities. The staterooms have all the latest technology including: flat screen satellite TVs, DVD/CD players, satellite direct-dial telephone, Wi-Fi and 110/220 outlets.
Included in all sailings are all meals, accompanied by wine, beer and soda; Captain’s welcome, cocktail parties and gala dinner; 24-hour room service; and all entertainment, events and shows as indicated within the itinerary. Port charges/taxes, gratuities, optional excursions and transfers are additional.
Established in 1988, Compagnie du Ponant is a member of both La Charte Bleue d’Armateurs de France and IAATO (International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators). All of Compagnie du Ponant’s cruise itineraries are designed to protect marine wildlife, coastal environments and local flora and fauna.
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Paul Gauguin Cruises no longer is a one-ship cruise line. The company has acquired a second ship, Compagnie du Ponant’s 90-passenger Le Levant. The sale price wasn't revealed.
