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Gliding the Waters of the Windward Islands – Luxury Caribbean Cruise

Gliding the Waters of the Windward Islands – Luxury Caribbean Cruise

From AUD $11,480

Description

The trade winds blow over the Caribbean Sea, sweeping across the spectacular Windward Islands. Aboard Le Ponant, one paradisical spot follows another in a constantly azure sea: the wild island of Dominica unveils its mangroves full of birds; the Grenadines can be discovered between their immaculate beaches and abundant marine life; and Marie-Galante displays its sun-soaked way of life and legendary friendliness along its idyllic beaches. From the deck, other striking sights appear on the horizon, such as the incredible pitons of Saint Lucia or the iconic sunsets of Les Anses-d’Arlet.
Whether you are a lover of the sea or a curious traveller, experience once again the indescribable joy of navigating under sail surrounded by the elements. Take your place aboard Le Ponant, a majestic three-mast yacht with elegant lines and an interior designed by the Jean-Philippe Nuel studio to be a warm and intimate setting with a highly distinctive character. As if you were on your very own yacht, savour the freedom of living in the moment, during this cruise to the heart of the mythical Windward Islands.  

Trip Name
Gliding the Waters of the Windward Islands - Luxury Caribbean Cruise
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Three-Master Sailing Ship Length: 288 feet Passenger Capacity: 32 Built/refurbished: 1991/2021 Le Ponant is a legendary three-masted yacht offering an exceptionally exclusive cruising experience for just 32 guests. With one crew member per passenger, service is highly personalised, ensuring every moment on board feels effortless and indulgent. Her design invites guests to connect deeply with the sea, with open and airy common areas that frame the horizon and allow the elements to be part of the journey. When conditions permit, she sails under wind power, creating a serene and authentic maritime experience that celebrates the art of slow travel. Accommodations comprise 16 spacious staterooms and suites spread across three decks, each bathed in natural light through generous windows or portholes. Stylishly appointed and luxuriously comfortable, they provide a peaceful retreat after days of exploration or quiet contemplation at sea. Combining elegance, sustainability through hybrid propulsion, and a deep respect for the oceans she navigates, Le Ponant offers a rare and refined way to discover the world.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 POINTE-À-PITRE
 At the crossroads of cultures, where European influence mingles with the richness of the Caribbean and the diversity of indigenous traditions, Pointe-à-Pitre promises a unique experience. Here, nestled on the southern coast of the island of Grande-Terre in Guadeloupe, in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, you will fall in love with the heavenly landscapes that reveal themselves to you, including white-sand beaches, verdant mountains, and lush tropical forests. Along the bustling streets of the city, you will discover Creole authenticity through the colourful markets, the traditional wooden houses, and the warm hospitality of the locals.
Day 2 - Day 2 PORTSMOUTH
 With its mountainous terrain, vast tropical forest, hot springs, rivers and spectacular waterfalls, Dominica is undoubtedly the wildest island in the Caribbean. Protected by several national parks, this little-known land, located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, between Guadeloupe and Martinique, will inspire adventure and exploration. During your port of call, do not miss out on discovering the enchanting landscapes of the Indian River: navigating through this dense mangrove, in which creepers, ferns, forest trees and giant roots are interweaved, is a magical experience, a fascinating voyage into the heart of an almost mystical natural universe.
Day 3 - Day 3 PORT ELIZABETH, BEQUIA ISLAND
 In the heart of the Caribbean, Bequia is the second-largest of 32 islands that make up the country of St Vincent and the Grenadines. You will love the lively and picturesque atmosphere of Port Elizabeth, the island’s main town. From the port, a promenade lined with beautiful traditional houses, landscaped gardens and small restaurants runs along the shoreline. It leads to Princess Margaret Beach, a wild beach where Princess Margaret herself has stayed and which seems to emerge directly from the tropical forest. From rainforest to lush meadows and long stretches of sand, Bequia will offer you a natural setting that is conducive to lovely walks and to spending time on the beach.
Day 4 - Day 4 TOBAGO CAYS
 Scattered between St Vincent and Grenada, the Tobago Cays comprises five little islands: Petit Rameau, Petit Bateau, Baradal, Petit Tabac and Jamesby. This rosary of uninhabited cays in the southern West Indies is a marine park whose turquoise lagoons provide a home and safe haven for some outstanding marine fauna, including peaceful green turtles. Girded and united by a coral reef, these secluded islands are a peaceful paradise for divers, swimmers and snorkellers.
Day 5 - Day 5 SANDY ISLAND, CARRIACOU
 West of Carriacou, the northernmost island in the state of Grenada, is Sandy Island, a spit of sand set in the bewitching Caribbean waters. Known for its powdery white sand and small lagoon with crystal clear waters, this wild islet, dotted with coconut trees, offers a natural setting for swimming and snorkelling. The abundant and colourful marine life promises memorable and thrilling encounters. Listed as a marine protected area, the site is also a hunting ground for numerous pelicans. Enjoy a fascinating show as they circle above the water before diving suddenly to catch their prey.
Day 6 - Day 6 SAILING ALONG THE PITONS & AT SEA ABOARD LE PONANT & LES ANSES-D'ARLET
 You will sail off the coast of the Pitons in Soufrière Bay. The Pitons are two volcanic spires, covered in tropical rainforest, rising side by side from the sea – they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The area’s volcanic complex includes a geothermal field with sulphurous fumaroles and hot springs. In the marine area, coral reefs are home to very diverse fauna, including hawksbill sea turtles, pilot whales and whale sharks, these harmless gentle giants that you will perhaps be lucky enough to observe by diving in the sea behind the ship.During your day at sea on board Le Ponant, make the most of your free time and the comfort of your ship for a moment of rest or conviviality. If the weather is right, let yourself be tempted by a spot of sunbathing. This day without a port of call will also be an opportunity to do some shopping in the boutique and share the highlights of your cruise with the other passengers. 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 relaxation, sharing and the pleasure of sailing on a yacht.Lying on the south-western end of Martinique, the charming town of Les Anses-d’Arlet reveals all the colours of the West Indies: from the azure blue of the Caribbean Sea and the emerald green of the surrounding vegetation to the reds, yellows and purples of the traditional Creole houses. This former fishing village, with its picture-postcard appearance and its typical and peaceful atmosphere, promises a unique interlude during which you will be able to spend moments relaxing on long white sandy beaches, discover local culture and explore the lush nature with its singular biodiversity.
Day 7 - Day 7 MARIE-GALANTE
 It is undoubtedly because Marie-Galante concentrates all the charms of the Caribbean into one island that it is today one of the most in-demand destinations in the region. “The island of 100 mills” or the “great galette” as it is sometimes known, in reference to the form of its 15 km diameter limestone plateau, is surrounded by white sandy beaches that are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean In Saint-Louis, you can take the time to bathe in its turquoise waters, relax under the palm trees and almond trees or stroll along the colourful streets of the village.
Day 8 - Day 8 POINTE-À-PITRE
 At the crossroads of cultures, where European influence mingles with the richness of the Caribbean and the diversity of indigenous traditions, Pointe-à-Pitre promises a unique experience. Here, nestled on the southern coast of the island of Grande-Terre in Guadeloupe, in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, you will fall in love with the heavenly landscapes that reveal themselves to you, including white-sand beaches, verdant mountains, and lush tropical forests. Along the bustling streets of the city, you will discover Creole authenticity through the colourful markets, the traditional wooden houses, and the warm hospitality of the locals.
Day 9 - Please Note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
28-03-202604-04-2026AUD $13,720Mistral Stateroom
28-03-202604-04-2026AUD $14,400Mistral Prestige Stateroom
28-03-202604-04-2026AUD $18,530Mistral Junior Suite
28-03-202604-04-2026AUD $19,900Mistral Prestige Suite
28-03-202604-04-2026AUD $21,280Alizés Stateroom
28-03-202604-04-2026AUD $21,550Alizés Prestige Stateroom
28-03-202604-04-2026AUD $25,400Alizés Privilege Suite
28-03-202604-04-2026AUD $29,790ALIZÉS GRAND PRIVILEGE SUITE
28-03-202604-04-2026AUD $31,340Owner Suite
02-01-202709-01-2027AUD $12,060MISTRAL PRESTIGE STATEROOM
02-01-202709-01-2027AUD $16,380MISTRAL JUNIOR SUITE
02-01-202709-01-2027AUD $17,640MISTRAL PRESTIGE SUITE
02-01-202709-01-2027AUD $18,890ALIZÉS STATEROOM
02-01-202709-01-2027AUD $19,120ALIZÉS PRESTIGE STATEROOM
02-01-202709-01-2027AUD $23,560ALIZÉS PRIVILEGE SUITE
02-01-202709-01-2027AUD $26,520ALIZÉS GRAND PRIVILEGE SUITE
02-01-202709-01-2027AUD $35,190Zephyr Owner Suite
02-01-202709-01-2027AUD $11,480MISTRAL STATEROOM
30-01-202706-02-2027AUD $11,480MISTRAL STATEROOM
30-01-202706-02-2027AUD $12,060MISTRAL PRESTIGE STATEROOM
30-01-202706-02-2027AUD $16,380MISTRAL JUNIOR SUITE
30-01-202706-02-2027AUD $17,640MISTRAL PRESTIGE SUITE
30-01-202706-02-2027AUD $18,890ALIZÉS STATEROOM
30-01-202706-02-2027AUD $19,120ALIZÉS PRESTIGE STATEROOM
30-01-202706-02-2027AUD $23,560ALIZÉS PRIVILEGE SUITE
30-01-202706-02-2027AUD $26,520ALIZÉS GRAND PRIVILEGE SUITE
30-01-202706-02-2027AUD $35,190Zephyr Owner Suite
27-02-202706-03-2027AUD $11,480MISTRAL STATEROOM
27-02-202706-03-2027AUD $12,060MISTRAL PRESTIGE STATEROOM
27-02-202706-03-2027AUD $16,380MISTRAL JUNIOR SUITE
27-02-202706-03-2027AUD $17,640MISTRAL PRESTIGE SUITE
27-02-202706-03-2027AUD $18,890ALIZÉS STATEROOM
27-02-202706-03-2027AUD $19,120ALIZÉS PRESTIGE STATEROOM
27-02-202706-03-2027AUD $23,560ALIZÉS PRIVILEGE SUITE
27-02-202706-03-2027AUD $26,520ALIZÉS GRAND PRIVILEGE SUITE
27-02-202706-03-2027AUD $35,190Zephyr Owner Suite
27-03-202703-04-2027AUD $12,210MISTRAL STATEROOM
27-03-202703-04-2027AUD $12,830MISTRAL PRESTIGE STATEROOM
27-03-202703-04-2027AUD $17,440MISTRAL JUNIOR SUITE
27-03-202703-04-2027AUD $18,780MISTRAL PRESTIGE SUITE
27-03-202703-04-2027AUD $20,120ALIZÉS STATEROOM
27-03-202703-04-2027AUD $20,360ALIZÉS PRESTIGE STATEROOM
27-03-202703-04-2027AUD $25,090ALIZÉS PRIVILEGE SUITE
27-03-202703-04-2027AUD $28,250ALIZÉS GRAND PRIVILEGE SUITE
27-03-202703-04-2027AUD $35,190Zephyr Owner Suite

Inclusions

    • An intimate escapade in the aptly named Windward Islands, discovering the soul of the Caribbean, enjoying precious moments aboard Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht.
    • Stunning landscapes (Tobago Cays coral reef; the pitons of Saint Lucia, etc.) and fascinating Creole culture (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Guadeloupe, etc.).
    • Programme of included excursions (Indian River in a rowboat from Portsmouth, Creole garden in Marie-Galante, etc.) and water-based activities (including scuba diving) to discover the marine fauna.

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