Horizons of East Asia and the Philippines Luxury Cruise

With around four million inhabitants, Busan is the second largest metropolis on South Korea, after Seoul. This dynamic harbour city, located in the south-east, surrounded by the warm waters of the Sea of Japan, benefits from a mild, pleasant climate. You’ll find delightful simply to stroll around the lively streets and explore the city’s outstanding cultural heritage of art galleries, museums, and Buddhist sites, such as the Haedong Yonggungsa temple, which elegantly sits on the waterfront. Rich too in magnificent beaches and superlative natural landscapes, Busan’s peaceful atmosphere will win you over, as will its inhabitants, whom you’ll have the pleasure of meeting.

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.

Set in the most amazing geographic location, Shanghai has fast become the largest economic and commercial hub in China. Although this futuristic megalopolis is the capital of excess, it still has soul. See for yourself as you stroll around the Bund district, emblematic of old Shanghai. From here, you can reach People's Square, a must-see vast and luminous space bordered by historical monuments. In the former French concession, you'll be able to appreciate the charm of the most Westernised of Chinese cities: a haven of peace in the heart of an urban jungle!

Set in the most amazing geographic location, Shanghai has fast become the largest economic and commercial hub in China. Although this futuristic megalopolis is the capital of excess, it still has soul. See for yourself as you stroll around the Bund district, emblematic of old Shanghai. From here, you can reach People's Square, a must-see vast and luminous space bordered by historical monuments. In the former French concession, you'll be able to appreciate the charm of the most Westernised of Chinese cities: a haven of peace in the heart of an urban jungle!

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.

Capital of Okinawa Prefecture, the town of Naha is located on the south-west of the island. You will love its lively atmosphere, particularly along Kokusai Dori, otherwise known as 'international street'. The picturesque Makishi Public Market, nicknamed 'Naha's kitchen' offers a profusion of colourful fish, Okinawan foodstuffs and local spices and you can sample delicacies cooked on the spot.

Situated between the East China Sea and the Philippine Sea, Miyakojima is the main island of the Miyako Islands, in the Sakishima archipelago. The fourth largest island in the Okinawa prefecture, it is known for its many sugar cane plantations and some of Japan’s most beautiful beaches. 

On the north-east tip of Taiwan, the harbour city of Keelung stands on one of the most beautiful coasts on the island. Nearby is the spectacular natural park of Yehliu, famed for its striking rock formations. It's easy to tour the city's historical sites on trails that cross the lush green hills surrounding the harbour from Chung Cheng Park to Fort Ershawan, you can enjoy superb views of Keelung and the coastline. But the main attraction is the Miaokou night market, where you can taste some typically Taiwanese culinary delights.

In the north of the Philippines, the unspoilt Batanes archipelago reveals landscapes of striking beauty, with wind-beaten cliffs and verdant hills. From Basco, the province’s emblematic lighthouse, roads lined with flowers lead to the villages of the Ivatan people, whose stone houses are designed to withstand typhoons. This remote and peaceful archipelago offers an atmosphere where nature is ever-present, shaping a unique and still little-known part of the world.

Located in the charming municipality of Claveria in Cagayan, Claveria Beach is a hidden jewel offering visitors a real coastal experience. It is characterised by its natural beauty, and its inhabitants live onfishing and farming, mainly rice. You will be able to watch the fishermen return with their catch and discover the local traditions of this community, which is home to 32,000 inhabitants. A genuinely lush destination, the scenic route to Sentinella Hill affords stunning views over the mountains and the coast. In the heart of the Santa Maria Chapel, children playing guitar and dancers will set the rhythm of this tranquil escape. Featuring relaxation and a change of scenery, the port of call in Claveria promises to be idyllic.

A protected area created in 1940, the Hundred Islands National Park is a designated natural site that brings together 124 beautiful tropical islands and islets, scattered across the crystal-clear waters of the Lingayen Gulf. It is an iconic attraction in the Philippines, offering visitors charming white sandy beaches, abundant vegetation and marine life. This preserved site also has limestone cliffs and coral reefs, making it a veritable corner of paradise for nature fans.

On first sight, the Philippines' capital shows its highly Americanised Asian megalopolis side, with ultramodern skyscrapers set all along the waterfront. But when you stroll through the cobbled streets of the Intramuros district, you'll discover a different side of Manila, one that's full of old-world charm. An enchanted pause in the middle of urban bustle, Rizal Park's 60 hectares of magnificent green parkland is perfect for recharging your batteries. To see the city from a different angle, take a walk along Roxas boulevard, a popular seaside promenade.

Itineraries are subject to change.

Vessel Type: Luxury

Passenger Capacity: 92 cabins

Built: 2018/2019

Le Jacques Cartier is the newest vessel in the PONANT Explorers series, blending contemporary French elegance with cutting-edge design and technology. Accommodating just 184 guests across 92 stylish staterooms and suites, the ship offers an intimate and refined cruising experience. Its sophisticated interiors feature open spaces filled with natural light, seamlessly connecting guests to the sea and surrounding landscapes. Expansive lounges, a theatre, and a swimming pool create inviting social areas, while the marina platform allows effortless access to Zodiac excursions and water activities.

On board, Le Jacques Cartier embodies the essence of French art de vivre through exceptional gastronomy, fine wines, and attentive service. Wellness facilities provide a sanctuary for relaxation, complementing days of discovery and exploration. Built with the latest environmental innovations, the ship reflects PONANT’s commitment to responsible and sustainable cruising. Whether sailing through tropical islands, ancient coastlines, or polar waters, Le Jacques Cartier delivers a journey defined by comfort, culture, and connection to the natural world.

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.