In alliance with Smithsonian Journeys.


This cruise is part of a collection of PONANT voyages that are specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes transfers to and from the ship, talks and discussions aboard ship by world class experts, and a shore excursion or activity in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and smells of the local environment and culture.


On this 13-day voyage from Bali through the myriad islands of eastern Indonesia to the northern shores of Australia you will sail through the heart of the Coral Triangle, where beaches, mangroves, and rainforests host an amazing biodiversity, and where the surrounding seas comprise the richest coral reef system in the world. You will also encounter a rich human history as you discover the colonial legacy of European powers who fought one another for control of the trade in valuable spices, and as you visit with villagers whose way of life continues age-old traditions.


Leaving Bali, the aptly-named "Island of Gods," your first port of call, on the island of Sumbawa, is also your first encounter with a traditional village, where you will be welcomed by the residents and introduced to some of their customs. This glimpse of ancient and enduring ritual is followed by two days exploring the abundant wildlife of Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to an incredible diversity of species, including the eponymous Komodo dragons, giant monitor lizards that grow to more than ten feet long.


On the islands of Flores and Alor, you will experience some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities of the voyage, as well as an opportunity to delve into the customs and traditions of the indigenous Takpala people. And in the Barat Daya Islands you will find more of the same, as well as amazing birdlife, including 162 different species, a number of which are endemic.


A full day in Band Neira in the Maluku Islands (spice islands) introduces you to the history of these small volcanic outcroppings that were fought over by virtually every colonial power interested in the South Pacific and the trade in cloves, nutmeg, and mace. As you walk the streets of the town, you will discover an eclectic mix of Portuguese, Dutch, and British architecture—the remnants of a long and tumultuous history.


Kitikiti Waterfall and Triton Bay, both on the coast of West Papua, provide two days of unparalleled diving, snorkeling, swimming, and Zodiac cruising in the "epicenter of the Coral Triangle." And your last call, before a day at sea brings you to Darwin, Australia, and the end of the voyage, will be in the Kei Islands, located in the heart of the Malukus, home to some of Indonesia’s most beautiful white sandy beaches.

If it's a taste of exotic authenticity you're after, prepare to be spell-bound by the island of Bali, tucked away in the heart of the Indonesian archipelago. The beauty and diversity of its landscapes, the depth and richness of its cultural heritage and the plethora of activities on offer here make Bali a little slice of heaven on Earth. The island's southern coast enthrals with its white sand beaches, its picturesque little fishing villages such as Benoa, and its hills patchworked with terraced rice paddies further inland. Nicknamed 'the Island of Gods' for its sumptuous temples, Bali is the beating heart of Indonesian Hinduism.

 

The port of Badas is part of the greater township of Sumbawa Besar, on the island of Sumbawa. Like most of Sumbawa the people hold their culture strong as a major part of their identity. The island has a strong influence from the Makassarese of Sulawesi, who over the centuries have introduced a lot of their culture into Sumbawa. Join your expedition team and local guides for a tour by bus to Pamulung Village where you will be welcomed by the head of the village and have the opportunity to witness first-hand the local traditions of rice pounding, weaving and also witness a wedding procession. Your visit will conclude with an exciting Sumbawa buffalo race, an event that will be held in honour of our visit.  

 

Between the islands of Sumbawa and Florès, Komodo National Park welcomes you to discover its natural wonders. At the very heart of the Indonesian archipelago, the three islands that form it – Komodo, Rinca and Padar - owe their renown to the famous eponymous dragons, enormous lizards over two metres long, which live in its grassy savannah. This jagged and hilly volcanic territory belonging to the Sunda Islands is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its incredible terrestrial and marine biodiversity. Admire its palette of colours, intermingling the sparkling whites of the beaches, the deep blues of the coral-filled water and the soft greens of its pastures.

 

Floresians have an ancient culture stretching back millennia before the first arrival of Europeans in search of trade opportunities. Their history is shared through oral traditions and is recreated in song and dance. The mountainous terrain of Flores has preserved the diversity of cultures and Maumere serves as the capital of the Sikka district and main trading port. Few tourists make it to Maumere with most stopping at Labuan Bajo and heading west to the islands of Komodo. Consequently, Maumere and has kept its charming atmosphere, an eclectic mix of a bustling trading town and a coastal paradise. Join your expedition team and local guides for a tour by local transport to the markets and tribal villages in the hinterland of Maumere.

 

The unique culture of the Alorese continues among the Takpala indigenous group who have preserved their traditional architecture and ceremonies. The island of Alor is also known as the island of a Thousand Moko’s. The Moko is a small bronze kettledrum which is believed to have originated from the Dong Son culture of Vietnam. However, it remains a mystery as to how these prehistoric Dong Son drums arrived in Alor. Local legend says that the Moko’s were discovered buried in the ground, and indeed mokos are still being uncovered today. Join the expedition team and local guides for a tour by local transport to Takpala village, the Museum of a Thousand Mokos and the thriving main market of Kalabahi.

 

If you are looking for exoticism and authenticity, then you will be captivated by the Barat Daya Islands, an Indonesian archipelago lying to the east of the Lesser Sunda Islands, bathed by the Banda Sea and surrounded by coral reefs. With their fine sandy beaches, marine environments, preserved nature and paddy fields, these islands in the Maluku archipelago are a real concentration of the beauty South-East Asia has to offer. A lush environment in which fauna and flora flourish. Notably, there are almost 162 different bird species including four endemic ones and three endangered ones.

 

From age-old traditional cultures and ancient vestiges, to coral reefs and lush green jungle… The attractions of the remote Banda archipelago seem endless. Better known as the legendary “Spice Islands” of the Ancient World, these small volcanic landmasses were the fabled prize of colonial powers for more than four centuries. Every colonial power of significance fought for control of these ten small islands that today have become largely forgotten. Walking the streets of Banda Neira is a surreal experience as your eyes are drawn to the eclectic mix of Portuguese, Dutch and British architecture, the remnants of a rich and tumultuous history. It is without doubt the most historically significant and interesting of all the “Spice Islands”.

 

North of Triton Bay, in the Indonesian province of West Papua, lie the Bomberai Peninsula and Sebakor Bay. A real paradise for divers, this protected, authentic and very wild area boasts an exceptional biodiversity. Here, you will be able to admire the superb Kitikiti Waterfall where you could enjoy a swim or snorkel surrounded by lush nature, both on land and under water.

 

Triton Bay is one of three regions in Indonesia’s West Papua province that comprise the Bird’s Head Seascape (the other two are Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay), which is now considered by marine biologists to be the epicentre of the Coral Triangle. It contains more fish and coral species than anywhere else on the planet. Its unparalleled marine biodiversity and endemism, habitat richness, and relatively intact nature of its ecosystems are unique. Join your expedition team for a zodiac voyage through the spectacular rainforest capped karst islands. Later in the day enjoy the opportunity to explore the richness of the underwater realm.

 

The Kei Islands are blessed with kilometres of stunning, yet almost entirely empty, white-sand beaches and a deeply hospitable population. Beneath the mostly Christian facade, Kei culture is fascinatingly distinctive. Local history holds that ancestors of contemporary Kei islanders came from Bali, part of the expanding Hindu Majapahit kingdom from the western archipelago. Enjoy a day of swimming and snorkelling on an idyllic uninhabited picture postcard tropical island.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Itineraries are subject to change. 

Deluxe Stateroom

$14,940 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) and TV A bathroom with shower A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs A glazed panoramic swing door and rectangular window

Prestige Deck 4

$16,500 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) One chaise longue A bathroom with shower A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door

Prestige Deck 5

$17,270 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) One chaise longue A bathroom with shower A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door

Prestige Deck 6

$18,210 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) One chaise longue A bathroom with shower A private 4 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window or glazed panoramic swing door

Deluxe Suite Deck 3

$25,030 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm) A bathroom with shower A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window

Deluxe Suite Deck 4

$25,030 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm) A bathroom with shower A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window

Deluxe Suite Deck 5

$25,030 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm) A bathroom with shower A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window

Deluxe Suite Deck 6

$25,030 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) An armchair and sofa (90 x 190 cm) A bathroom with shower A private 6 m² balcony with two armchairs A glazed panoramic swing door and panoramic window

Prestige Deck 5 Suite

$33,580 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding Champagne and fruit basket on arrival Butler service An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door Two bathrooms with shower A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs Two panoramic sliding bay windows

Prestige Deck 6 Suite

$35,280 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding Champagne and fruit basket on arrival Butler service An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day A bedroom with king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge with convertible sofa to a king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm), armchair, second TV, and sliding courtesy door Two bathrooms with shower A private 8 m² balcony with four armchairs Two panoramic sliding bay windows

Privilege Suite Deck 6

$36,990 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding Butler service One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair A bathroom with shower A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window

Privilege Suite Deck 5

$36,990 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding Butler service One king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge area with chaise longue and armchair A bathroom with shower A private 8 m² balcony with two armchairs A panoramic sliding bay window

Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 5

$40,560 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding Champagne and fruit basket on arrival Butler service An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day A bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge with sofa convetible to a double bed (160 x 190 cm), armchair, and second TV A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub A private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and four-seater dining table 2 panoramic sliding bay windows

Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6

$40,560 AUD pp
In addition to the common services provided to all our suites and staterooms: Priority boarding Champagne and fruit basket on arrival Butler service An assortment of sweet or savoury canapés and fruit basket every day A bedroom with one king-size bed (180 x 200 cm) or two single beds (90 x 200 cm) A lounge with sofa convetible to a double bed (160 x 190 cm), armchair, and second TV A bathroom with shower and Balneo bathtub A private 32 m² terrace with two deckchairs and four-seater dining table 2 panoramic sliding bay windows

Vessel Type: Luxury

Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins

Built: 2018/2019

Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed staterooms, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yacht boasting just 92 staterooms and suites will offer you a truly unique cruising experience.

As the sixth ship in a new series that remains true to the Ponant spirit, Le Jacques Cartier will embody the unique atmosphere that is the cruise line’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy and comfort.

Aboard this ship that flies the French flag, you will experience the incomparable pleasure of an intimate cruise, with the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service.

Experience a luxurious setting where the accent is on authenticity and passion for travel.

RESTAURANTS

As it is an essential part of French culture, gastronomy will naturally have pride of place aboard this new ship.

To the back of Deck 4, you will find a 260 m² panoramic restaurant which can accommodate all of our passengers in a single sitting. Designed differently to that on our other ships, this dining area, which opens onto the outside, will have a buffet of salads, desserts and cheeses at your disposal. Our discreet and attentive crew will provide table service for hot meals.

In a relaxed atmosphere, an outdoor grill on Deck 3 will serve grilled meats with a variety of salads and desserts.

PUBLIC AREAS

 Le Jacques Cartier has many common areas that are designed and equipped to meet all of your needs while preserving the intimacy of each passenger.

A 140 m² reception area includes:

A reception/concierge desk,

An excursions desk,

The ship’s administrative services,

The sales office, manned by our Guest Relations Officer,

Our 50 m² boutique which sells clothing, jewellery, beauty products, postcards and various accessories,

Toilets accessible to passengers with reduced mobility.

A new hydraulic platform with adjustable height provides:  

Easier boarding than on any other cruise ship,

Easier Zodiac embarkation and disembarkation for expeditions,

Easier access to the sea for swimming and practising various water sports such as kayaking or paddle-boarding.

A pool deck offering:

A pool with a panoramic view, equipped with a counter-current swimming system,

A pleasant solarium,

An outdoor bar and lounge with armchairs and sofas.

A 200 m² main lounge which can accommodate all of our passengers to share convivial moments and to host activities organised during the day or evening.

Lastly, a theatre that seats 188, equipped with:

The latest sound and lighting technology,

A LED wall as the stage backdrop, for the projection of high-resolution images and videos.

Cabin layout for Le Jacques Cartier

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
__________
• Activity in each port of call + transfers included

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 Jacques Cartier
Indonesia Luxury ExpeditionLuxury Expedition
13 Days from
$1,150 AUD per day

Highlights

• A voyage specially-tailored for English-speaking travelers including discussions with experts, transfers before and after your cruise, and an included activity in each port of call.

• Engaging discussions onboard with two Smithsonian Journeys Experts.

• Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.

• Discovering the lush and idyllic islands of Indonesia and experiencing their extraordinary biodiversity in the air, on land, and under the sea.

• Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Encounters with local people and introductions to their customs and traditions.

• Extensive possibilities for swimming and snorkeling in crystal clear waters with pristine coral reefs.

• Opportunities for PADI Advanced Open Water Divers (or equivalent) to join an experienced onboard instructor on dives at unbelievably clear dive sites (additional expense).

or call us on

NZ Freephone
0800 945 3327

AUS Freephone
1800 107 715

to help you make your reservation

Get Our Latest Brochure

Featuring the latest small ship cruises to a number of destinations, our Small Ship Cruising brochure is carefully curated to include small ship cruises from expeditions to luxury cruises to the world's most fascinating destinations including Alaska, Croatia, the Galapagos and the Antarctic and Arctic.

Our Associates Include

Adventure Canada
Heritage
Hutigruten
Pandaw
Ponant
Uncruise
Variety
Alaskan Dream Cruises