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Celtic Secrets & Landscapes in Luxury

Celtic Secrets & Landscapes in Luxury

From AUD $7,490

Description

PONANT invites you aboard Le Champlain for a 8-day cruise to discover the British and Irish treasures along the coastlines of the Channel and the Celtic and Irish seas.

From London, the cosmopolitan capital of the United Kingdom boasting a rich historical heritage and an exceptional avant-garde art scene, Le Champlain will set a course eastward through the waters of the mythical Channel to reach the Isle of Portland. Succumb to the charms of this limestone-rich island covered in lush vegetation. Here, serenity and a gentle way of life reign.

You will then sail along the Jurassic Coast. Listed as World Heritage by UNESCO due to the importance of its geology, this coastal region will offer you an exceptional panorama composed of spectacular rock formations, lush hills, small, wild inlets and gorgeous sand or pebble beaches.

Then, you will make your way to Dartmouth, a charming town tucked away in the heart of the stunning décor formed by the mouth of the Dart. You will discover its old pastel-coloured fishermen’s houses and some half-timbered buildings.

Your ship will then sail towards the Isles of Scilly, a strange little archipelago whose landscapes seem to have come straight out of Enid Blyton’s famous story, The Rockingdown Mystery. Here, long sandy beaches lie alongside green fields, while ruins of old castles stand proud on hilltops.

Next, Le Champlain will sail towards Dublin, the Irish capital brimming with convivial atmosphere and authentic charm.

Before you disembark in Glasgow, your ship will call at Belfast, where you can visit the Giant’s Causeway. This massive geological formation is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features over 40,000 basalt columns.

Trip Name
Celtic Secrets & Landscapes in Luxury
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Luxury Length: 127 metres Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins Built: 2017/2018 Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed cabins, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yacht boasting just 92 cabins and suites will offer you a truly unique cruising experience. As the first ship in a new series, Le Champlain 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. Through its two restaurants, Le Champlain will invite you on a journey to elegance and epicureanism. In a relaxed atmosphere, a first dining area located on Deck 3 and able to seat 70 will serve grilled meats daily, along with a variety of salads and desserts. 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. PUBLIC AREAS Like Le Boréal and its sisterships, Le Champlain 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.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 LONDON
The main residence of the British monarch, financial hub and seat of British government, London is the economic and cultural heart of the country. A city of contrasts, attached to its traditions while buzzing with modernity, the capital of the United Kingdom has countless historic districts and notable sites to explore. From Hyde Park to the City through Westminster and Trafalgar Square, get ready to take on Londonメs frenetic tempo. In between a visit to the National Gallery, a stroll through Covent Garden and a trip to Tower Bridge, you can take a quiet breather in one of Londonメs many beautiful parks and gardens.
Day 2 - Day 2 AT SEA
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.
Day 3 - Day 3 ISLE OF PORTLAND
Lying along the steep shores of the Channel, at the southernmost point of the county of Dorset, in south-west England, the limestone-rich island of Portland surprises visitors with its wild and unspoiled natural environment, its easy way of life, and its mild seaside climate. The island was the site of the first Viking raid on British soil in 789 and still bears traces of a rich history. One of these is its castle, built in the 16th century, at the request of Henry VIII, to counter the French attempts to invade. The British island welcomes numerous species of migratory birds. It also stands out for its environment combining sheer cliffs, carved by the waves, and a rich biodiversity. This is an unforgettable port of call, where the accent is on tranquillity, elation and discovery.
Day 4 - Day 4 SAILING ALONG JURASSIC COAST & DARTMOUTH
In southern England, discover the coastline of Dorset and East Devon, also called the Jurassic Coast in reference to the many fossils from that period found there. Stretching more than 150 km, the “Pearl of Dorset” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its geological interest. Aboard your ship, admire the site’s spectacular white chalk cliffs, home to many sea birds. The scenery, constantly changing with the light, and the different creeks and beaches situated at the feet of these gigantic rock formations, will give you the opportunity to take superb photos. Perhaps you will also be able to glimpse Durdle Door, this natural arch carved out of the rock by erosion.Succumb to the charming setting of the small town of Dartmouth in the county of Devon, South-East England. Set in the heart of lush scenery, on the banks of the River Dart’s estuary, the town’s magnificent landscapes are typical of English countryside. Its picturesque paved streets will let you discover sumptuous half-timbered houses dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries while, on the northern bank of the river, you will be able to admire former fishermen’s houses in their pastel colours. Now a popular tourist destination, this small port town has nonetheless managed to retain its relaxing and romantic atmosphere.
Day 5 - Day 5 ISLES OF SCILLY
Nestling in the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, at the south west tip of Cornwall, the Isles of Scilly form a small British island chain whose climate, landscapes and lifestyle are unlike any other and seem to have come straight from an Enid Blyton story. Here, everything resembles a tropical paradise. The long sandy beaches run alongside lush green meadows teeming with semi-exotic flowers, whilst the ruins of ancient castles loom from the tops of the hills. Veritable havens of peace that inspired the legendary Avalon of King Arthur, they are today listed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the rugged coastline plays host to wildlife that is as varied as it is exceptional, including the very rare Atlantic grey seal.
Day 6 - Day 6 DUBLIN
The Irish capital stretches along the banks of the Liffey to Dublin bay, on the East coast of Ireland. Discover Ireland’s warm conviviality in the pedestrian district of Temple Bar. Its cobbled streets are brimming with fabulous shops, pubs and arts centres. Next to Trinity College, famous for its 18th century library, you can stroll along Grafton Street: in one of its famous tea shops, try a delicious scone and clotted cream served hot and melt-in-the-mouth with jam. Not far from here, the majestic O’Connell bridge leads you to the avenue with the same name, on which Spire, a luminous contemporary sculpture presides.
Day 7 - Day 7 BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND
The capital city of Northern Ireland is located on the very tip of Belfast Lough, in the north-east of the Emerald Isle. Along the waterfront, the building shaped like a fragmented liner is non other than the Titanic Belfast, a homage to the famous transatlantic liner, with full-scale reconstructions making for an insightful experience of the Belle Epoque. In the historical centre, you’ll also travel back in time when you see the majestic Edwardian columns of the City Hall, and the imposing neo-gothic towers of Queen’s University for example. The carved wooden façades of the Victorian pubs will certainly entice you in for a pint of beer or chilled cider.
Day 8 - Day 8 GLASGOW, SCOTLAND
In the heart of the Clyde Valley, the bustling city of Glasgow contrasts starkly with the wild beauty of the surrounding countryside. Scotland's biggest city overflows with landmarks from its extensive artistic heritage and outstanding architectural tradition. The city's chequerboard layout makes walking through the major pedestrian thoroughfares easy: go with the flow and let the lively street atmosphere take you past the many Victorian monuments. Don't miss the collections on display in the numerous museums and art galleries. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is an outstanding example.
Day 9 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $7,490Deluxe Stateroom
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $13,740Grand Deluxe Suite
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $14,180Owner's Suite
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $7,900Prestige Stateroom Deck 4
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $8,160Prestige Stateroom Deck 5
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $8,500Prestige Stateroom Deck 6
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $11,630Deluxe Suite
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $12,560Prestige Suite Deck 5
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $12,990Prestige Suite Deck 6
11-05-202418-05-2024AUD $13,330Privilege Suite

Inclusions

    • A cruise off the British and Irish coasts to discover the treasures of these ancestral lands.
    • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: from Belfast, the mysterious Giant's Causeway site, Dublin, city of literature, the Jurassic Coast, famous for its fossils and its dinosaur footprints.
    • A brand-new stop on the Isle of Portland, where landscapes include limestone coastline and verdant plains.
    • Dartmouth, a small, peaceful English town located on the banks of the Dart estuary.
    • Discover the Giant’s Causeway and its thousands of basalt columns.

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