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PONANT invites you to experience Australia’s Kimberley coast and spectacular Rowley Shoals in a remarkable new way, under sail aboard its emblematic yacht Le Ponant. The majestic three-masted yacht, with elegant lines and an intimate atmosphere for only 32 like-minded guests, is redefining barefoot luxury expeditions. A crew to guest ratio of more than 1 to 1 and an expedition staff to guest ratio of 1 to 8, combine to provide the pinnacle expedition sailing experience.

Discover the Rowley Shoals, located 260 kilometres west of Broome in the Timor Sea, regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular diving and snorkelling locations. The three coral atolls of Mermaid, Clerke and Imperieuse reefs rise, near vertical, from the surrounding crystal clear waters on the edge of the continental shelf. Each atoll is approximately 80 to 90 square kilometres in size and contain shallow lagoons inhabited by a diverse array of corals and abundant marine life, ideal for exploration by snorkelers and SCUBA divers.

The 13,000km of remote isolated Kimberley coastline boasts more than 2,600 islands and is home to the oldest continuous culture on earth, the world’s largest living reptile, the only two ‘Horizontal Falls’ on the planet, the world’s largest inshore reef, extensive undisturbed mangrove forests, wild rivers, important seabird and marine turtle breeding colonies and the largest population of migrating humpback whales on the planet. It is a national biodiversity hotspot and listed in the top 4% of least impacted marine environments worldwide.

Our Barefoot luxury sailing expeditions are fully flexible itineraries with no predetermined destinations. With a maximum of 32 guests, we are able to create bespoke itineraries. Each day’s activities will be determined by the Captain and Expedition Leader, taking into account the season, prevailing weather, tide and sea conditions to deliver the best experience possible.

Day 1 BROOME

Located in the northwest of the Kimberley region and in the far north of Western Australia, the town of Broome is reputed for its history and its glorious pearling era. The fascinating Chinatown district, which is the historic city centre, and the famous Japanese Cemetery, dates back to 1896, and has a past marked by the immigration of numerous Chinese and Japanese workers, attracted by the prosperous pearl industry at the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century. Broome is also famous for the “Staircase to the Moon”, an optical illusion created by the Moon reflecting on the sand banks at low tide, like a staircase climbing up towards the sky, a unique spectacle provided by nature…

Days 2 - 4 ROWLEY SHOALS

Regarded as one of the world’s most spectacular diving and snorkelling locations, the Rowley Shoals lie 260 kilometres west of Broome in the Timor Sea. The three coral atolls of Mermaid, Clerke and Imperieuse reefs rise, near vertical, from the surrounding crystal-clear waters on the edge of the continental shelf. The shallow lagoons inhabited by a diverse array of corals and abundant marine life are ideal for exploration by snorkellers and divers. To take full advantage of the location, your ship will spend one and a half days at the Rowley Shoals, allowing you to swim and snorkel from zodiac.

Days 5 - 8 SOUTHERN KIMBERLEY COAST

Whilst there is no standard itinerary, our sailing expedition will feature the iconic destinations of Montgomery Reef and the Horizontal Falls, described by Sir David Attenborough as “One of the greatest wonders of the natural world.” Additional destinations that may be visited include The Lacepede Islands, Home to the world’s largest breeding colony of Brown Boobies and Western Australia’s most important breeding habitat for Green Turtles. The iconic Cape Leveque, at the tip of the Dampier Peninsula, best known for its pristine white sand beaches and golden red sandstone cliffs. The 800 islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago provide an ideal sailing ground to explore. Scattered amongst the islands are secluded white sandy beaches including Silica Bay, historical pearling locations such as Strickland Bay and The Edeline Islands and the remarkable geological scenery of Whirlpool Pass and Nares Point. Further North Collier Bay showcases the massive tides that the region is renowned for at the Horizontal Falls and Montgomery Reef. Here the many outdoor rock art galleries including Wijingarra Bard Bard provide an insight into the remarkable history and culture of Australia’s First Nations People. To the East lies Doubtful Bay providing access to multiple river systems, including the Sale River and Red Cone Creek, lined with mangroves, creating the ideal environment to spot crocodiles and an abundance of birdlife. High above the saltwater influence freshwater waterholes provide the ideal locations for cooling off after a day of exploration.

Day 9 BROOME

Located in the northwest of the Kimberley region and in the far north of Western Australia, the town of Broome is reputed for its history and its glorious pearling era. The fascinating Chinatown district, which is the historic city centre, and the famous Japanese Cemetery, dates back to 1896, and has a past marked by the immigration of numerous Chinese and Japanese workers, attracted by the prosperous pearl industry at the end of the 19th century and at the beginning of the 20th century. Broome is also famous for the “Staircase to the Moon”, an optical illusion created by the Moon reflecting on the sand banks at low tide, like a staircase climbing up towards the sky, a unique spectacle provided by nature…

Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

08 September, 2023 to 16 September, 2023
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Mistral Stateroom

$17,595 AUD pp
Mistral Stateroom
14m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

Mistral Prestige Stateroom

$21,204 AUD pp
Mistral Prestige Stateroom
14m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

Alizés Stateroom

$23,731 AUD pp
Alizés Stateroom
23m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

Alizés Prestige Stateroom

$24,631 AUD pp
Alizés Prestige Stateroom
23m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

Mistral Junior Suite

$24,631 AUD pp
Mistral Junior Suite
21m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

Mistral Prestige Suite

$26,440 AUD pp
Mistral Prestige Suite
27m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

Alizés Privilege Suite

$30,759 AUD pp
Alizés Privilege Suite
39m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

Owner Suite

$38,704 AUD pp
Owner Suite
56m². With 16 staterooms & suites (including an Owner’s Suite) to choose from, PONANT has chosen to place the emphasis on space and freedom aboard Le Ponant in order to give guests a sense of being on their own private yacht. The suites and cabins are spread over three decks, with each benefiting from large windows and offering soft, calming light conducive to calm tranquillity, relaxation and contemplation. Individually controlled air conditioning Double bed (180 cm x 200 cm) or twin single beds (90 cm x 200 cm), depending on the cabin; adjoining cabins available (for child-friendly cruises) Mini bar Flat screen TV, satellite channels Bose™ Bluetooth Speaker Desk with writing supplies Electronic safe Selection of Dyptique Paris bath products Dressing table and hairdryer Direct phone line via satellite 110/220 volt outlets 24-hour room service Unlimited free Wi-Fi

Additional charges:

Port Taxes & Fees: 537 AUD pp

Le Ponant

Vessel Type: Motor Yacht

Length: 88 metres

Passenger Capacity: 64

Built: 1991

This sleek, expertly designed 88-metre-long and 56-metre-high three-master is one of the most majestic yachts in the world. In an age when everything is becoming computer controlled, it shines the spotlight back on the more manual, skilful art of sailing, combined with comfort, elegance, exclusivity and sustainability.

The striking lines, the quality of the materials, the sophistication of the way they’re combined: the common areas, designed by French design studio Jean-Philippe Nuel, exude a sense of timelessness and offer a genuine connection with the exterior scenery and landscapes. Their design offers a blend of purity, excellence and a sense of easy living through the prominent use of stylish plain tones: off-white, taupe and caviar grey. No flourishes or embellishments here, but instead a unity between the common areas and the staterooms.

  • Exterior bar - Sun Deck

Sun Lounge area - Exterior bar

  • The Le Diamant panoramic restaurant - Zéphyr Deck

Seats 34 guests - 61 m² - Buffet breakfast and dinner - Fine gastronomic cuisine made using exceptionally high quality organic and local products - Veuve Clicquot champagne - Wines from French artisan wine producers and the regions visited.

  • The Marina - Alizés Deck

Two standard kayaks and two glass-bottomed kayaks - Four stand up paddleboards - Snorkelling equipment - Fishing equipment - Scuba diving equipment (for a group of four people) - Saltwater swimming pool - Small equipment for children (noodles, rings, armbands and safety equipment) - Bicycles

  • The lounge and Bar Emeraude - Alizés Deck

Interior surface : 92 m² - Seats 35 guests - Exterior surface : 85 m² - Seats 24 guests

  • The wellness space - Alizés Deck

Spa / massages (18.5 m²): one cabin offering massages and Biologique Recherche treatments - Gym (16 m²) with dedicated fitness instructor - Yoga sessions on the Sun Deck

Cabin layout for Le Ponant

Up to 30% Off - Ponant Bonus

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)
• Transfers to wharf/wharf to airport

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
Le Ponant
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$17,595 AUD pp
Map for Rowley Shoals Sailing Expedition

Highlights

• Discover the pinnacle Kimberley sailing experience, with fully flexible itineraries and no predetermined destinations.

• Sail to the Rowley Shoals, home to pristine coral lagoons and an abundance of marine life.

• Swim and snorkel in the clear tropical waters of the Rowley Shoals.

• Discover the pristine beaches and remarkable scenery of the Buccaneer archipelago.

• Gain an insight into the ancient culture and heritage of Australia’s First Nations Peoples.

• Watch in awe as the tidal waters flow off Montgomery reef.

• Witness the unique tidal phenomenon of the Horizontal Falls in Talbot Bay.

• Search for iconic bird species such as White-bellied Sea Eagles, Brahminy kites and Ospreys.

• Visit The Lacepede Islands an Important Bird Area and home to Western Australia’s most important breeding habitat for Green Turtles.

• Gain an insight into the geology, history, culture, flora and fauna of this fascinating region from your expert expedition team.
Enquire Now

or call us on

NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

to help you make your reservation

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