Asia, Japan
Exploring Ogasawara Islands (Le Soleal)
PONANT proposes a 10-day all-new expedition cruise aboard Le Soléal from Osaka to Guam, discovering Japan’s wildest archipelago, the Ogasawara Islands.
You’ll embark in Osaka, Japan’s second city, which is home to a fortress dating back to the 16th century, before setting sail towards the island of Hachijo-jima, which lies off the coast of Tokyo and is composed of two magnificent volcanos.
You’ll then reach the Ogasawara Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. In this extraordinarily wild setting, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll discover volcanic landscapes of outstanding beauty: white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, coral formations, lush tropical forest, cliffs…
Located a few thousand kilometres off the coast of the main Japanese archipelago, and accessible only by the sea, these subtropical islands nicknamed the “Galapagos of the East” preserve incredibly rich fauna and flora: more than 40% of the 500 plant species are endemic.
Many marine mammals live in the deep waters of the underwater canyon on which the archipelago is located.
At the end of the world, at the crossroads of Japanese and Micronesian influences, the archipelago has developed an original culture.
Finally, you’ll reach the idyllic island of Guam in Micronesia, your disembarkation port.
• An all-new cruise discovering the preserved islands of Hachijo-jima and Ogasawara.
• Outings and shore visits with an experienced team of naturalist-guides.
• A UNESCO World Heritage Site: the landscapes, fauna and flora of the Ogasawara archipelago.
• The Hachijo-Fuji mountain on the island of Hachijo-jima.
• Landscapes: white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, coral formations, lush tropical forest, cliffs…
• Endemic fauna and flora, possibility of observing marine mammals and snorkelling.
You’ll embark in Osaka, Japan’s second city, which is home to a fortress dating back to the 16th century, before setting sail towards the island of Hachijo-jima, which lies off the coast of Tokyo and is composed of two magnificent volcanos.
You’ll then reach the Ogasawara Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011. In this extraordinarily wild setting, in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, you’ll discover volcanic landscapes of outstanding beauty: white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, coral formations, lush tropical forest, cliffs…
Located a few thousand kilometres off the coast of the main Japanese archipelago, and accessible only by the sea, these subtropical islands nicknamed the “Galapagos of the East” preserve incredibly rich fauna and flora: more than 40% of the 500 plant species are endemic.
Many marine mammals live in the deep waters of the underwater canyon on which the archipelago is located.
At the end of the world, at the crossroads of Japanese and Micronesian influences, the archipelago has developed an original culture.
Finally, you’ll reach the idyllic island of Guam in Micronesia, your disembarkation port.
Highlights
• An all-new cruise discovering the preserved islands of Hachijo-jima and Ogasawara.
• Outings and shore visits with an experienced team of naturalist-guides.
• A UNESCO World Heritage Site: the landscapes, fauna and flora of the Ogasawara archipelago.
• The Hachijo-Fuji mountain on the island of Hachijo-jima.
• Landscapes: white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, coral formations, lush tropical forest, cliffs…
• Endemic fauna and flora, possibility of observing marine mammals and snorkelling.
Like its big sister Tokyo, Osaka is the product of ancestral traditions and amazing technological innovations. And despite its size, its location on the Pacific Ocean give it a sense of serenity. The main historic landmark is the 16th-century Osaka Castle, which stands proud in the midst of majestic skyscrapers. The lively streets of Dotomburi and the bizarre Shinsekai district attract thousands of locals and visitors. A multitude of restaurants offer menus full of regional specialities: takoyaki, made with octopus, and other succulent dishes such as kushikatsu kebabs.
During your day 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 day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, 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.
In the Western Pacific, you will call at Guam, the largest volcanic island of Micronesia and the Mariana Islands. Here, the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches create a picture-postcard setting, ideal for relaxation and a break from it all. This little-known island, today under the administration of the United States, also offers you the opportunity to visit a number of historical sites, vestiges of Spanish colonisation, and to discover the culture of the Chamorros, the first inhabitants of the islands, talented craftspeople who have preserved their traditions.
Itineraries are subject to change.
| 14 November, 2021 to 23 November, 2021 | Book now |
Superior Stateroom
$8,040 AUD pp
(226 sq.ft.) 8 superior staterooms of 226 sq.ft.located on Deck 3. AMENTIES: Individually-controlled air-conditioning, Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line, telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi
DeLuxe Stateroom
$8,730 AUD pp
(200 sq.ft. + 43 sq.ft. private balcony), 28 Deluxe Staterooms of 200 sq.ft.with private balcony. AMENTIES: Individually-controlled air-conditioning, Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 4
$9,860 AUD pp
(18,5 m² + 4 m² private balcony), 92 Prestige Staterooms with private balcony. AMENTIES: Individually-controlled air-conditioning, Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 5
$10,390 AUD pp
(18,5 m² + 4 m² private balcony), 92 Prestige Staterooms with private balcony. AMENTIES: Individually-controlled air-conditioning, Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi
Prestige Stateroom - Deck 6
$10,960 AUD pp
(18,5 m² + 4 m² private balcony), 92 Prestige Staterooms with private balcony. AMENTIES: Individually-controlled air-conditioning, Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi
Deluxe Suite
$15,620 AUD pp
(290 sq.ft. + 54 sq.ft. private balcony), On Deck 6 you will find 3 Deluxe Suites with private balcony. AMENTIES: Individually-controlled air-conditioning, Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, Shower, Minibar, Flat screen satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi, Sofa, Armchair & Pedestal table
Prestige Suite - Deck 5
$21,490 AUD pp
(398 sq.ft. + 86 sq.ft. private balcony), 20 Prestige Suites with private balcony will provide you a sea with in total discretion. AMENTIES: Individually-controlled air-conditioning, Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available (Children welcome), Shower, Minibar, Flat screen satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi, Another Flat screen satellite TV, Sofa, Armchair & Pedestal table
Prestige Suite - Deck 6
$22,610 AUD pp
(398 sq.ft. + 86 sq.ft. private balcony), 20 Prestige Suites with private balcony will provide you a sea with in total discretion. AMENTIES: Individually-controlled air-conditioning, Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available (Children welcome), Shower, Minibar, Flat screen satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi, Another Flat screen satellite TV, Sofa, Armchair & Pedestal table
Owner’s suite
$26,110 AUD pp
(484 sq.ft + 97 sq.ft. private balcony). The Owner's suite is situated on Deck 6. It has been decorated by Franch interior designers and will provide you a breathtakting panoramic sea view. AMENTIES: Individually-controlled air-conditioning, Cabin layout : king-size bed, or twin beds, communicating cabins available (Children welcome), Bathtub or shower, Minibar, Flat screen satellite TV, Desk with stationery, Ipod™ players, Video on demand, Safe, Hairdryer, Bath robes, Satellite direct line telephone, 110/220 volts outlet, French bath products, 24hr room service, Internet acces wifi, Another Flat screen satellite TV, Large bathtub, Sofa, Table with 4 chairs, Armchair & Pedestal table
Additional charges:
Port Taxes: 670 AUD pp
Le Soleal
Vessel Type: Luxury Small Ship
Length: 142 metres
Passenger Capacity: 264
Built: 2013
Sailing under the French flag, this magnificent yacht of only 132 staterooms and suites, with balconies, joined in 2013. You will be enchanted by the contemporary decor inspired by the luxury yachting world, with fluid lines and a modern colour scheme combining natural wood with shades of grey and white.
A refined ambience is enhanced by the quality of the workmanship and materials: white Corian counters in the lobby contrast with the warmth of leather to recall a boat's hull, while the central scuplture of enamelled pieces takes its inspiration from the sea. In the loungebar, the carpet picks up a tennis stripe theme symbolising a certain idea of cruising, one synonomous with French elegance and a chic seaside spirit.
Ponant Bonus - Save up to 30% on Ponant Small Ship Cruises
Save up to 30% on Ponant Small Ship Cruises. Prices online do not show the discounted rates. Terms and Conditions apply, special offer is subject to availability, please contact us for more details.
Inclusions
Voyage on board in selected cabin category
All meals while on board
Non-alcoholic and Alcoholic beverages included (Excluding Premium Brands)
Free wifi (Subject to coverage)
Trip specific inclusions;
Zodiac cruising and excursions
Lectures on board
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
Luxury Expedition
10 Days from
$8,040 AUD pp
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