Buenos Aires to Rio de Janeiro
21 Feb 2025
9
Nights
Departing:
South America
From:
£
18000
per person
Seward (Anchorage, Alaska) to Vancouver
28 Aug 2025
7
Nights
Departing:
Canada
From:
£
10600
per person
Le Ponant, the first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht, like the finest travel address on the waters of the world. On the Cape Verde Islands, formed from volcanic lava and sculpted by the power of the Atlantic’s waves, you will experience the raw beauty of incomparable nature. There are of course the strains of morna coming from Mindelo. There is the history of a former Portuguese colony that still bears traces of its past and has a geographic situation that has meant many influences for this string of islands. Above all, though, Cape Verde represents an indefinable feeling of freedom. Carried by the wind, Le Ponant will take you into a unexpected world where the elements will imbue you with new emotions.
Soft music rises from Mindelo, the music of Cesária evora, “the Barefoot Diva”, who is inextricably linked to her island and her town, where she remains revered. The pastel colours of the façades and the former colonial buildings dot the Cape Verdean towns and villages that you will discover from the sea. Aboard Le Ponant, you will enjoy the privilege of an intimate atmosphere in the hushed comfort of the ship. As your cruise unfolds, you will discover the historic city of São Filipe inexorably turned to the sea, on the island of Fogo, and you will explore Praia, the capital of Cape Verde with its diverse influences, planted with tamarind and silk trees. Wherever you go, you will be captivated by the markets with their bright colours and fragrance-filled stalls. The sky and the sea, unspoiled nature and the Cape Verdean soul will sweep you away aboard Le Ponant. Everywhere you look, you will see surprising and larger-than-life landscapes. The highest island in the archipelago, Fogo, is like a painting featuring a palette of colours, at times emerald, at times grey, revealing old lava flows amidst lush vegetation. In São Nicolau, the steep hillsides soon rise on the horizon, while the deep valleys will welcome you to discover the dragon trees, these ancient trees with a majestic silhouette. Boa Vista offers another face of Cape Verde, with its dunes of fine sand stretching as far as the eye can see, revealing the cerulean blue of the Atlantic. And volcanos are everywhere here, watching over the landscape, their sharp contours unveiling the power of wild nature. The changing winds will set the pace of your odyssey, freedom will surge up on the horizon, in the soft calm offered by the interior of PONANT’s emblematic yacht. If you look to the sky, you will perhaps glimpse some of the many bird species that can be found in this piece of land lost in the Atlantic Ocean. You are sure to be surprised by the variety of activities during your trip, from hiking the paths of the archipelago to lazing on the bridge of the ship or on a Cape Verdean beach, to cultural discoveries and the exploration of a fascinating heritage.
A cruise discovering Cape Verde, an archipelago featuring pristine wild nature, with a fascinating mix of cultural influences.On land and on sea, soak in the Cape Verdean spirit and charm, and enjoy exceptional moments such as the stunning sunsets aboard your ship.During this timeless interlude, you will be able to leisurely discover the beauties of this archipelago in the heart of the Atlantic, whether on hikes in nature, excursions into authentic villages or through moments of pure relaxation.A rich programme of included excursions.Enjoy the extraordinary experience of sailing aboard Le Ponant as though you were on your own private yacht.A limited-capacity yacht: a maximum of 32 passengers and as many crew members; a dedicated chefSail on a ship propelled by the wind and enjoy the wonderful opportunities nature offers us to adjust the programme and navigate under sail whenever possible.As the wind carries you, you will savour shared moments of joy and live in the here and now, in an exceptional environment.Both on board and on shore, make the most of the presence of local guides who will share the secrets of this exceptional archipelago with you, through a series of 100% Cape Verde ports of call taking you off the beaten path.
Set on the shores of the Porto Grande bay on the north-west coast of São Vicente, Mindelo is considered to be Cape Verde's cultural capital. Here in singer Cesaria Evora's homeland, you can listen to real morna in the bars of the old town, where you can also sip the local grog, a Cape Verdian sugarcane spirit. A few streets from the elegant floating resort of Pont d'água you'll see the pastel-coloured houses and colonial buildings of the historical district. Other landmarks are the facades of the old Governor's Palace and the busy municipal market.
INCLUDED
From Mindelo, the cultural capital of Cape Verde and the hometown of the legendary Cesária evora, you will be able to travel to the neighbouring island of Santo Antao. On the horizon, the island’s sharp contours, a result of volcanic activity in the region, rise out of the Atlantic Ocean. Long deemed impassable, Santo Antao has been partially tamed by man who successfully adapted to the mountain chain that crosses it, in particular by establishing terraced farming there. This unique form of agriculture gives the island an extraordinary beauty which blends in with its wild nature, at times lush, at times mineral. With its deep valleys and jagged peaks, the territory offers stunning panoramas that promise unforgettable memories.
INCLUDED
The third largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago, Boa Vista offers visitors stunning white-sand beaches and emerald water. Dubbed “the sand dune island”, it is particularly well-known for its wild, desert landscapes that are windswept all year round. Sand dunes, oases and arid plains form the landscape of this small stretch of land that is barely 30 km (20 miles) long. Make the most of your stop here by experiencing the joy of swimming amid abundant marine life.
INCLUDED
The capital of Cape Verde, Praia, is located on the southern tip of Santiago island. You can dally in the districts planted with Tamarind and Albizia trees. Above the harbour, the statue of Diogo Gomes pays homage to the man who discovered Cape Verde in 1460. A few streets away, in the old centre, the Ethnographic Museum presents the diversity of the archipelago’s cultural origins. Its historical building with transom windows is one of the city’s more unusual curiosities.
INCLUDED
Discovered in 1460 in the month of May, as its Portuguese name indicates, Maio lies east of Santiago in the Cape Verde archipelago. At the southwestern end of the island, you will discover the city of Porto Inglês, also known as Vila do Maio, where the pastel houses nestle against rounded hillsides. This port city played a pivotal role in the export of salt by the English in the 17th century. Overlooking the city, the fortress built in the 18th century as protection against pirate attacks still bears traces of its turbulent past. The long beaches of white sand that edge the island are now an invitation to enjoy the peace and serenity.
Lying west of Praia, the volcanic island of Fogo is Cape Verde's highest landmark. The foothills of Pico de Fogo are ideal for hiking, with an immense caldera surrounding the active crater. Trails start at the little town of Chã das Caldeiras and you can see recent lava flows and older ones sprouting with new growth. Along the rocky coastline you'll come across picturesque Mosteiros and the historic town of São Filipe, where elegant colonial houses overlook the Atlantic.
INCLUDED
Set on the shores of the Porto Grande bay on the north-west coast of São Vicente, Mindelo is considered to be Cape Verde's cultural capital. Here in singer Cesaria Evora's homeland, you can listen to real morna in the bars of the old town, where you can also sip the local grog, a Cape Verdian sugarcane spirit. A few streets from the elegant floating resort of Pont d'água you'll see the pastel-coloured houses and colonial buildings of the historical district. Other landmarks are the facades of the old Governor's Palace and the busy municipal market.
This legendary yacht offers a uniquely exclusive voyage experience. An invitation to sail, revitalise oneself, share, contemplate and respect the world around us. An ode to freedom and the treasures of nature. With its common areas open extensively to the horizon, you will have never felt such communion with the elements. With one crew member per passenger and just thirty-two guests on board, you will have never enjoyed so much attention. With navigation under sail the moment conditions allow, you will have never savoured each second that passes to such an extent.
This iconic yacht provides an exclusive voyage experience. It's an invitation to sail, rejuvenate, reflect, connect, and honour the beauty of your surroundings. A true celebration of freedom and the wonders of nature.With expansive communal areas that open up to the horizon, you'll experience an unparalleled connection with the elements. With one crew member dedicated to each guest and only thirty-two passengers aboard, you'll receive an extraordinary level of attention. When conditions permit, sailing will allow you to truly savour every moment.
The culinary experience aboard Le Ponant is a celebration of food and nature, beautifully highlighting the local products from the destinations visited. With expansive openings and a terrace that accommodates all 34 guests, the restaurant invites you to enjoy exceptional gastronomic moments throughout the day—whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The Le Diamant panoramic restaurant serves fine gastronomic cuisine and wines from French artisan wine producers and the regions visited.
Spread across three decks, the staterooms and suites of Le Ponant are remarkably spacious. Each room has a soothing brightness thanks to large picture windows and portholes. Elegantly decorated, they provide a luxurious atmosphere perfect for tranquillity and relaxation.
The captivating lines, the premium quality of the materials, and the elegance of their combination: the common areas, crafted by the French design studio Jean-Philippe Nuel, radiate a timeless charm and forge an authentic link with the surrounding scenery and landscapes. Soak up the sun on the upper deck or curl up with a book in the indoor lounge. If you’re in a more active mood, you can make use of the onboard gym and kayaking opportunities at the marina.
The gorgeous Cape Verde is one of the most fantastic place to cruise. Join this journey of adventure in luxury.
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