Le Champlain, 9 Night Natural sanctuaries & Caribbean encounters ex Belize City, Belize Return

On this 10-day expedition cruise with PONANT, contemplate the various nuances of green offered by the lush forests of Belize and Honduras, and admire the Caribbean Sea’s many shades of blue, while delving into fascinating cultures. The idyllic landscapes and captivating encounters with the local population will make your journey unforgettable, as you discover Central America’s most beautiful sites.

During your odyssey aboard Le Champlain, expect to hear birdsong and see dense tropical forests and the intertwined roots of mangrove burgeoning with life. From Punta Sal, you will explore the Jeannette Kawas National Park, a haven of peace where the forest melts into the sea, allowing you to contemplate unique biodiversity. You will then explore a completely undiscovered island, Guanaja, which is full of treasures. Just its former name, the green island, is enough to conjure up its many gems. Here you will discover the Caracoles people, who take pride in their traditions, on the small key of Bonacca, also known as The Cay, with its mangroves, tropical rainforests and sandy beaches sheltering rich wildlife.

La Ensenada is another little-known and pristine paradise; it invites you discover its unique ecosystem, aboard traditional local boats, and explore its impressive mangroves, which shelter rich biodiversity. You can also take the time to explore this picturesque and authentic village, making the most of a dreamed-of opportunity to meet a welcoming community and discover their customs and traditions.

The stunning nature here will reveal itself in the heart of a Caribbean atmosphere imbued with history and tradition. The Garifuna people will welcome you on the small island of Chachauate in the Cayos Cochinos with a unique performance, a visit of their village and the possibility of tasting their singular gastronomy. In the small town of Placencia, a perfect spot to spend a moment relaxing on the main street running along the seafront, you will be able to hear all about the Mopan and Kekchi Mayan civilisations, a fascinating story that is inextricably linked to the region. You will also fall in love with its many mangroves and its exceptional sea beds. You will discover the local arts and crafts throughout your journey, thus learning about the heritage of these Caribbean shores.

Half Moon Caye, the picture postcard view of Belize, is also on the programme of this cruise; in this enchanting place, you will be able to see nesting frigatebirds and red-footed boobies close up. The Great Blue Hole cenote, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world’s most stunning diving sites. On Water Caye, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System is also teeming with many treasures for those who venture into its waters.

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 that remains true to the Ponant spirit, 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 5-star service.

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

EXPERIENCE CRUISING ANOTHER WAY, DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF YACHT CRUISES.

Our mission is to transport you to mythical destinations and secret ports only accessible to small capacity ships.

To offer the delights of a French-inspired cuisine in an intimate environment - a discreet service where no attention to detail is spared - and unforgettable moments of relaxation on board elegant yachts of character.

To combine sophistication and conviviality, with priority given to authentic experiences, emotions and the ongoing quest for excellence.

Yacht cruises: more than a cruise, a privilege...

Attentive, professional, discreet and elegant, the fully bilingual service on board will meet your every desire. Our unique atmosphere is filled with a signature sentiment: a warm welcome from an experienced crew who are passionate about what they do, in the tradition of private yachting.

In the dining areas, our gourmet cuisine is worthy of top fine dining restaurants: exquisite wines are available, and menus are created with expertise by our skilled chefs with a French-inspired menu enhanced by specialties from our various ports of call.

Pleasure, enrichment, discovery: relax - we take care of everything...