On the edge of the Arctic, with its vast glaciers, vertiginous fjords and legendary volcanoes, Iceland offers a simultaneously romantic and wild face. During a unique 8-day journey, in partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE and with the exceptional presence of Alain Duault, leaving from the world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavik, you will fall in love with the enchanting landscapes as well as the singular biodiversity of the western coast of Iceland.


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, explore the spellbinding Snaefellsnes Peninsula from Grundarfjördur, discover the three sites of the Icelandic “Golden Circle” (Thingvellir, the “golden falls” of Gullfoss, and Geysir) from Reykjavik, or appreciate the grandeur of the Godafoss waterfalls from Akureyri. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).


This is a veritable masterpiece by Mother Nature, where you will sail the icy waters of the North Atlantic on a quest for the most beautiful treasures offered by the “land of Ice and Fire”. The lush hills and plains that border the coastline here create a stunning setting. Waterfalls tumble down jagged cliffs, their sparkling swell flowing along monumental basalt rocks, putting on a captivating spectacle. The fjords appear majestically, stretching their inlets in a protective embrace around small fishing villages full of colourful houses, while volcanoes and bubbling geysers will transport you into lunar landscapes like nothing else in the world.


It is a real nature sanctuary, where the vast lush expanses of meadows are home to a myriad of migratory birds that have come from all over the world to nest here, thus creating a melodious concert of spellbinding song. Puffins and gannets, emblematic of this region, gather on the jagged cliffs, with the blue of the ocean as a backdrop. Arctic foxes sneak silently among the grassy valleys and Icelandic horses gallop along black sandy beaches. The ocean’s cold waters are teeming with marine life, from humpback whales to orcas; these majestic cetaceans slide graciously through the waves, providing all their observers with an unforgettable moment.

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

 

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

 

This land seated off the southern coast of Iceland is the largest of the Vestmann islands, and is the only inhabited island in the archipelago. The steep Edfell volcanoes and the green prairies of Herjólfsdalur offer rich contrast of nature. On the Stórhöfði road, look out over grey sand beaches and cliffs carved out by the Arctic ocean. From here, you can also see the bronze landscapes of the mountaintops. You could visit Eldheimar, an ultra-modern and interactive museum which traces the volcanic eruption has experienced Heimaey in 1973.

 

This secret boreal hideaway is located at the foot of the Kirkjufell, on Snaefellsnes peninsula. Arriving by boat means you will get a closer view of the lava-stone rock standing like a sentinel at the entrance to the bay; Grundarfjörður lies sheltered behind this cone-shaped rock. A stone’s throw from the jetty, crystal clear waters, tundra and beaches give onto the cerulean waters of Breiðafjörður. Scattered with its emerald-coloured lawns, this town, with its buildings that merge into the surrounding countryside, will most certainly win your favour.

 

Grímsey is the northernmost island of Iceland surging from the Arctic ocean, with the Arctic circle running through the island. Its contrasted contours are surprising. From Grímseyjarhreppur, the island’s only town located on the west coast, then heading due south, you can take in the beauty of the hillsides, lushly carpeted with moss and grass. On the rest of the coastline, imposing basalt cliffs inhabited by sea birds stand proud.

 

The elegant city of Akureyri is located very close to the Arctic circle, tucked away in the Eyjafjörður fjord. It displays a stunning palette of colours: blue waters in the harbour, bronze mountain ash on the squares and brightly-coloured houses in the historical centre. As you walk along the cobbled streets, you will come across rows of terraces with wooden furniture. A vast stairway cut into the hillside leads up to the emblematic feature of the town, namely the Akureyrarkirkja church. The very beautiful botanical garden made possible by a microclimate offers the opportunity to discover the Icelandic flora as well as plants from all over the world.

 

Your ship will take you to the heart of the fjords of North-West Iceland, a wild land of lost valleys and steep cliffs, where man struggles to survive. In this very isolated region we find the Isafjörður fjord, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in the country, mainly for its relief, forged by many very ancient basaltic flows. The town of Isafjörður, which nestles at the back of its fjord, between imposing mountains, is a delightful little town that lives exclusively from fishing. The capital of the Western fjords, its old wooden houses bear witness to its past as a major fishing port.

 

Iceland’s capital stretches along the edge of a vast bay in the west of the country. Perlan, the “Pearl of Reykjavík”, a museum located on ’Oskjuhlið hill, offers a panoramic view of the lush, green landscapes. A little further, one can easily spot the signpost showing the way to the evangelical Hallgrímskirkja church, and to the historical centre where one can stroll along the Skólavördustígur and the Laugavegur, two lively streets with charming small shops. For some relaxation just outside of the city, visitors have the opportunity to visit the Reykjanes peninsula and its famous thermal lagoons of the Blue Lagoon.

 

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Superior Stateroom

$9,480 AUD pp
Superior Stateroom
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Window (except cabin 300 : porthole) One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) Bathroom with shower

Deluxe Stateroom

$10,260 AUD pp
Deluxe Stateroom
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: A private 43 ft² balcony One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) Bathroom with shower A porthole and glass door

Prestige Deck 4

$11,390 AUD pp
Prestige Deck 4
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: A private 43 ft² balcony A sliding panoramic window One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) Bathroom with shower

Prestige Deck 5

$11,950 AUD pp
Prestige Deck 5
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: A private 43 ft² balcony A sliding panoramic window One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) Bathroom with shower

Prestige Deck 6

$12,630 AUD pp
Prestige Deck 6
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: A private 43 ft² balcony A sliding panoramic window One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) Bathroom with shower

Deluxe Suite

$17,580 AUD pp
Deluxe Suite
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: A private 53 ft² balcony Sliding panoramic window Butler service Priority boarding Champagne and fruit on arrival A daily selection of sweet and savoury canapés and a fruit basket One king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) An armchair and sofa Bathroom with shower

Prestige Deck 5 Suite

$23,780 AUD pp
Prestige Deck 5 Suite
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: A private 86 ft² balcony Two sliding panoramic windows Two bathrooms with showers Priority boarding for suites on Deck 6 Butler service for suites on Deck 6 Champagne and fruit on arrival A daily selection of sweet and savoury canapés and a fruit basket One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) A living room with a convertible sofa into a king-size or two single beds, armchairs, second TV, and a courtesy sliding door

Prestige Deck 6 Suite

$25,020 AUD pp
Prestige Deck 6 Suite
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: A private 86 ft² balcony Two sliding panoramic windows Two bathrooms with showers Priority boarding for suites on Deck 6 Butler service for suites on Deck 6 Champagne and fruit on arrival A daily selection of sweet and savoury canapés and a fruit basket One bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 190 cm) or two single beds (90 x 190 cm) A living room with a convertible sofa into a king-size or two single beds, armchairs, second TV, and a courtesy sliding door

Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition / Cruise Ship

Length: 142 metres

Passenger Capacity: 264 (200 in Antarctica)

Built: 2011

This superb mega-yacht with 132 cabins is the result of the expertise of the Italian Fincantieri shipyard and French sophistication, as interpreted by designer Jean-Philippe Nuel. L'Austral has a unique atmosphere, a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy and well-being.

A sleek silhouette softened by elegantly smooth contours and large, arched windows opening up to the sea and the light: so many features come together to give L’Austral her distinctive shape. Precious materials, discreet elegance and a perfect balance between chic and casual, combine to make you feel as if you are on your own private yacht. A design blending tradition and innovation, where a nautical mood has been subtly recreated. Precious materials in smoothing neutral tones are brought to life with splashes of cheerful reds. So many personal touches create the spirit of a “private yacht”.

Cuisine

Loyal to the great French tradition, the haute cuisine on board is worthy of the finest restaurants, where discreet, attentive service is the hallmark.

Our two restaurants welcome you for breakfasts, lunch and dinner. The Gastronomic Restaurant, with a capacity of 268 persons, is situated on Le Liberté Deck and serves you French and international cuisine accompagnied by fine wine. On the Grill Restaurant, you will have the opportuniny to eat outside and enjoy buffet lunch and themed dinner.

Life On Board

Whether you want to join other guests in the theatre or games area (Wii™ consoles, etc), or relax on your own in a quiet corner of the library, L'Austral has been designed to meet the needs of every guest.

Everything has been done to preserve the independence of each guest to suit their personal tastes: lounges for lectures and shows, a spa in partnership with Sothys™, but also more intimate spaces such as the library and internet corner. Comfortable cabins, nearly all with private balcony, are available for families either as triples or as communicating cabins. There is also a games area with Wii™ consoles, children’s menus, and a baby-sitting service. Just as if you were on a private yacht, your time is your own to do as you please.

Fitted with the latest equipment (Kinesis Wall, running machine) and in partnership with the famous

Sothys™ brand, the Beauty Centre on L'Austral welcomes you for some unforgettable moments of relaxation and pampering (beauty treatments, hairdresser).

Cabin layout for L'Austral

Special Offers

Online prices reflect the current brochure fare savings of up to 30%. Prices may change based on demand. Terms and conditions apply. This special offer is subject to availability. Please contact us for more details.

Inclusions


The "all-inclusive" includes:

• Accommodation in stateroom
• The full meal plan
• The Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. (Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar)
• Free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day - depending on location
• Activities offered during expedition cruises ( each itinerary has specific activities)
• Access to all the common areas on board our sister ships and Ponant Explorers: fitness room, steam room, hair salon, swimming pool (sea water, heated), solarium, lounges, theater, boutique & leisure area, and on board of our three-masted Le Ponant: Solarium of 400 m², marina, lounge, Boutique & leisure area.

Paul Gauguin Cruises:

• All shipboard meals, in your choice of venues
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Complimentary beverages, including select wines and spirits, beers, soft drinks, bottled water, and hot beverages served throughout the ship
• In-room refrigerator replenished daily with soft drinks, beer, and bottled water
• All shipboard entertainment, including our troupe of Polynesian performers and live music in the evenings
• Presentations by onboard experts, and select sailings feature guest hosts
• Onboard gratuities for room stewards, dining and bar staff
• Watersports, including complimentary kayaking and paddle boarding from our marina or destination beaches
• Complimentary snorkel gear for use throughout the cruise
• Use of our secluded, white-sand beach in Bora Bora (T&C apply)
• A day on our private islet, Motu Mahana, off the coast of Taha’a, featuring snorkeling, watersports, a barbecue, full bar service, and Polynesian hospitality (on select voyages)
• Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship

Exclusions


• Flights other than those mentioned in the itinerary
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs if applicable
• Premium beverages package (Can be purchased on board)
• Optional Excursions where applicable
• Spa treatments on board
• Pre and post cruise accommodation unless otherwise stated
• Transfers unless specified
• Gratuities
L'Austral
Iceland Luxury ExpeditionLuxury Expedition
8 Days from
$1,185 AUD per day

Highlights

• In partnership with RADIO CLASSIQUE and with featured guest Alain Duault.

• A unique cruise along the western coast of Iceland, featuring lush plains and valleys, volcanic landscapes and singular biodiversity.

• 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.

• Discover Reykjavík, capital of Iceland.

• Landscapes: vast glaciers, breathtaking fjords, volcanic rock, basalt pillars, jagged cliffs and geysers.

• Wildlife: Atlantic puffins, Northern gannets, Arctic terns, Minke whales, humpback whales, Icelandic horses.

• A passionate lecturer on board.

or call us on

NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

to help you make your reservation

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