Corsican Shores Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant
Sail round-trip from Nice for the Isle of Beauty to experience heavenly beaches and iconic ports of call. From 32-guest Le Ponant, immerse in wild and stunning panoramas, away from the crowds, and enjoy moments spent in harmony with nature.
Sail round-trip from Nice for the Isle of Beauty to experience heavenly beaches and iconic ports of call. From 32-guest Le Ponant, immerse in wild and stunning panoramas, away from the crowds, and enjoy moments spent in harmony with nature. Timeless Explorations blend cultural curiosity, immersive experiences and serene relaxation, with one included activity per guest in every port and one or more guest lecturer on board.
To the north, in Calvi or Saint Florent, take in Cap Corse and the craggy terrain of the Balagne region, with emblematic summits, shores eroded by sea spray, historic citadels and shrub-lined villages. Then explore the south of the island for idyllic beaches and a long line of crests comprising the entrance to the Gulf of Ajaccio, the archipelago formed by Pointe de la Parata and the Sanguinaires Islands.
At the southern tip of the Isle of Beauty, the Bay of Sant’Amanza features azure Mediterranean, fish-rich waters and a variety of plants and shrubs. Then sail towards Bonifacio and the fortress with winding streets suspended on its ivory cliffs. In the bay of Roccapina, on the beach of Erbaghju, the iconic Domaine de Murtoli emerges. Nestled between fragrant scrubland and turquoise sea, shielded from prying eyes, this unique hotel destination invites you to celebrate the Corsican way of life.
Sail aboard the luxury 32-guest Le Ponant. This Relais & Chateaux-affiliated motorsailer offers the feel of a private yacht, with more crew members than guests, room service, haute cuisine and refined French service. With three decks of open-air spaces, a swim platform and seawater pool for swim stops, and plenty of glass, this ship invites her guests to revel in the warm breezes and glittering waters through which she sails.
Read on for details about this Corsica cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s other small ship Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean trips.
7-Day Corsican Shores, Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant Itinerary
The Corsican Shores Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant cruise operates round-trip from Nice, France, with visits to off-the-beaten-path ports as well as an exclusive visit to the luxury hotel Domaine de Murtoli. The 7-day itinerary does not visit Roccapina. Timeless departures include one excursion per guest in every port, plus one or more onboard expert lecturer.
Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheater of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.
In the hollow of one of the most beautiful gulfs of the Mediterranean to which it owes its name, Saint-Florent is an ancient Genoese city whose citadel dominates the bay with its circular architecture. A link between the mountains of Upper Corsica and the Agriates desert, the fishing village has become a renowned seaside resort. In front of this jewel nestled in the hollow of a wild and isolated region, sublime beaches of fine sand border a sea of infinite turquoise shades. At the western tip of the gulf, the Tower of Mortella, built in the 16th century under the Republic of Genoa to prevent from invaders, stands watch. Like most of the towers that dot the Corsican coast, it is an emblematic and familiar symbol of the island.
Birth town of Napoleon Bonaparte, Ajaccio occupies a privileged location on the Île de Beauté. Rich in history and culture, the old “imperial city” is imbibed with the memory of this son of the soil. His presence is tangible, from the citadel to the imperial chapel, without forgetting the statues of the emperor in several of the city’s squares. As you stroll through the shaded streets in the old town center, you’ll come across the central market on place Foch, where you can taste one or two local specialities, for instance, brocciu, lonzu or the famous canistrelli.
In the southeast of Corsica, between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio, the gulf of Sant’Amanza, famous for its magnificent sandy beaches, is revealed. You will benefit from exceptional viewpoints over the landscapes of rare beauty formed by the limestone cliffs, covered with scrub, plunging into the turquoise waters and the granite rocks on the water’s edge.
The spectacular town of Bonifacio, located on the very tip of southern Corsica, clings to a narrow promontory of white rock overhanging the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. You can admire its limestone cliffs hewn out by the wind, before setting off on a cultural tour of its cultural treasures. From the little paved streets in the ancient Haute Ville, to the promenade on the open-air medieval chemin de ronde, this stunning town will take you on a journey back in time. Frequented or secluded, there are numerous beaches to choose from, all in keeping with the high standards of the “Île de Beauté.”
Nestled on a rocky spur in the northwest of Corsica, the port of Calvi offers its whiteness between two sapphire-colored bays. Capital of the Balagne region, the Genoese city benefits from an exceptional natural setting between the abrupt relief of the central chain, fertile hills and long sandy beaches. From the promontory of the Notre-Dame-de-la-Serra chapel, built in the 19th century on the ruins of a 15th century sanctuary, you will not miss the sublime panorama of the seaside, the mountains and the Calvi citadel. A little further west, you will have the opportunity to discover with the peninsula of Revelatta, a wilder and more preserved part of Corsica.
Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheater of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.
Included
An excursion in every port of call and Zodiac cruises; accommodations; all meals while on board the ship; open bar including beer, wine and spirits including Veuve Clicquot champagne (only on Le Commandant Charcot and Le Ponant); evening entertainment and events; daily stocked minibar; room service (except at night on Le Ponant); bilingual French/English crew members; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.
Exclusions
Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise (unless in Owner’s suite aboard Le Ponant); visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Corsican Shores Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant cruise begins and ends in Nice, France (NCE). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Optional activities on your Corsican Shores Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant cruise may include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and possible swim stops. Optional added-cost excursions (one per person, per port of call is included) are available on certain days and may be pre-booked from two months to one week prior to departure, or booked on board; these excursions may require a minimum group size. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of possible onboard activities keep guests engaged, including themed evenings, films screened on the ship’s sails, spa treatments, fitness sessions with the onboard wellness coach and yoga classes on the Sun Deck.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.
Families & Children
Children 1 year and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.
Travel Insurance
A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
8-Day Corsican Shores, Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant Itinerary
The Corsican Shores Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant cruise operates round-trip from Nice, France, with visits to off-the-beaten-path ports as well as an exclusive visit to the luxury hotel Domaine de Murtoli. The 8-day itinerary adds a visit to Roccapina with its conservation area and rocks resembling statues. Timeless departures include one excursion per guest in every port, plus one or more onboard expert lecturer.
Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheater of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.
In the hollow of one of the most beautiful gulfs of the Mediterranean to which it owes its name, Saint-Florent is an ancient Genoese city whose citadel dominates the bay with its circular architecture. A link between the mountains of Upper Corsica and the Agriates desert, the fishing village has become a renowned seaside resort. In front of this jewel nestled in the hollow of a wild and isolated region, sublime beaches of fine sand border a sea of infinite turquoise shades. At the western tip of the gulf, the Tower of Mortella, built in the 16th century under the Republic of Genoa to prevent from invaders, stands watch. Like most of the towers that dot the Corsican coast, it is an emblematic and familiar symbol of the island.
Birth town of Napoleon Bonaparte, Ajaccio occupies a privileged location on the Île de Beauté. Rich in history and culture, the old “imperial city” is imbibed with the memory of this son of the soil. His presence is tangible, from the citadel to the imperial chapel, without forgetting the statues of the emperor in several of the city’s squares. As you stroll through the shaded streets in the old town center, you’ll come across the central market on place Foch, where you can taste one or two local specialities, for instance, brocciu, lonzu or the famous canistrelli.
In the southeast of Corsica, between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio, the gulf of Sant’Amanza, famous for its magnificent sandy beaches, is revealed. You will benefit from exceptional viewpoints over the landscapes of rare beauty formed by the limestone cliffs, covered with scrub, plunging into the turquoise waters and the granite rocks on the water’s edge.
The spectacular town of Bonifacio, located on the very tip of southern Corsica, clings to a narrow promontory of white rock overhanging the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. You can admire its limestone cliffs hewn out by the wind, before setting off on a cultural tour of its cultural treasures. From the little paved streets in the ancient Haute Ville, to the promenade on the open-air medieval chemin de ronde, this stunning town will take you on a journey back in time. Frequented or secluded, there are numerous beaches to choose from, all in keeping with the high standards of the “Île de Beauté.”
Located in the southwest of Corsica, the wild rocky Roccapina headlands covered in pine forest are a conservation area. The headlands embrace two bays of turquoise blue water and powder-soft sandy beaches. You may not see many people but traces of the region’s Genovese past are visible, including a 17th century tower. However, the main attraction is provided by nature in the form of dramatic rocky peaks sculpted by the wind into the shape of animals and humans. On the top of a rocky outcrop one of the most famous formations strongly resembles a lion lying down, its head up surveying the coast.
Nestled on a rocky spur in the northwest of Corsica, the port of Calvi offers its whiteness between two sapphire-colored bays. Capital of the Balagne region, the Genoese city benefits from an exceptional natural setting between the abrupt relief of the central chain, fertile hills and long sandy beaches. From the promontory of the Notre-Dame-de-la-Serra chapel, built in the 19th century on the ruins of a 15th century sanctuary, you will not miss the sublime panorama of the seaside, the mountains and the Calvi citadel. A little further west, you will have the opportunity to discover with the peninsula of Revelatta, a wilder and more preserved part of Corsica.
Capital of the Cote d’Azur, Nice is surrounded by an amphitheater of hills and mountains that protects it from the wind. You will probably want to explore the Promenade des Anglais, where you can sit on one of the famous blue chairs laid out opposite the baie des Anges. The Château hill is also a very pleasent place to walk. This is the entrance to the old city, with its bustling markets and regional products along the main street, the Cours Saleya.
Included
An excursion in every port of call and Zodiac cruises; accommodations; all meals while on board the ship; open bar including beer, wine and spirits including Veuve Clicquot champagne (only on Le Commandant Charcot and Le Ponant); evening entertainment and events; daily stocked minibar; room service (except at night on Le Ponant); bilingual French/English crew members; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.
Exclusions
Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise (unless in Owner’s suite aboard Le Ponant); visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Corsican Shores Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant cruise begins and ends in Nice, France (NCE). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Optional activities on your Corsican Shores Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant cruise may include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and possible swim stops. Optional added-cost excursions (one per person, per port of call is included) are available on certain days and may be pre-booked from two months to one week prior to departure, or booked on board; these excursions may require a minimum group size. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of possible onboard activities keep guests engaged, including themed evenings, films screened on the ship’s sails, spa treatments, fitness sessions with the onboard wellness coach and yoga classes on the Sun Deck.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.
Families & Children
Children 1 year and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.
Travel Insurance
A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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Come aboard the ship that started a full fleet or refined, luxury ships. The 3-masted Le Ponant is the original ship, and also by far the smallest at 32 guests. Enjoy the feel of a private yacht and the majesty of 5 sails, with the elevated service PONANT is known for.
Le Ponant Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Le Ponant review includes a detailed description of the small ship and a photo gallery. Our small ship cruise experts have been aboard many first-class vessels in the Mediterranean. Find the detailed ship description and deck plan below. Then contact our experts to compare this luxury motorsailer with other small cruise ships and upscale yachts offering Caribbean small ship cruises, Croatia small ship cruises, Greek Island small ship cruises, Mediterranean cruises, Mediterranean yacht charters and luxury Mediterranean cruises.
Choose Le Ponant if you are seeking an exclusive ship with the ambiance of a high-end yacht and the heart of a historic vessel. Le Ponant's prestige is supported by her accolade as the first sailing yacht in history to become a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux property group (2023). As such, Le Ponant helps protect and promote authentic culinary and hospitality traditions reflective of the regions through which she sails, while being mindful of the environment. And her 32 guests and 33 crew members ensure guests are never want for anything while cruising in spectacular locales. Guests appreciate open-air decks, a saltwater pool, haute cuisine and water-level living spaces.
Common Areas & Activities
Three of Le Ponant's four decks invite guests to indulge in the warm breezes and radiant sunshine through which the ship sails. The Sun Deck beckons with a bar and chaise loungers. The Zephyr Deck offers space for small gatherings near the bow and aft. And the Alizes Deck features an aft marina area with steps down to the water.
Indoors, guests can enjoy a fully stocked library with tearoom in the Emeraude Bar and Lounge; this space converts to a stage for live entertainment on select evenings. The Multimedia Lounge is an engaging space to learn and relax between excursions. And the Reception desk is staffed around the clock, to ensure every guest's needs are met.
Wellness Amenities
The onboard spa offers a full menu of wellness treatments, with options such as massage and a facial. Other wellness amenities include the fitness center, complete with a dedicated fitness coach, yoga classes (also available on the Sun Deck), and workout equipment such as a rowing machine, spin bike and exercise bike. Finally, an infirmary is also available should any ailments arise.
Activity Gear
Le Ponant comes equipped with a collection of activity gear also not available on most small yachts. Guests can enjoy kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, bicycles and all the necessary equipment for snorkeling, fishing, and diving (up to four guests at a time). Kids on board will appreciate the pool noodles and rings, and floating armbands. A unique saltwater pool structure at the back of the ship turns the warm ocean into your own private swimming area.
Dining Aboard
Le Diamant (The Diamond) restaurant features panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows and seating for the full passenger complement, both indoors and out. The menu features refined organic cuisine crafted with local ingredients. A fully stocked bar features selections such as Veuve Clicquot champagne, French artisan wines and wines sourced from the region in which guests are traveling. Highly trained servers treat guests to invigorating breakfasts, lunch buffets with options to please every palate, and nightly dinner options aimed at perfection.
Cabins & Le Ponant Deck Plan
Le Ponant's 16 total staterooms and suites are spread across 9 categories and 3 decks. Every cabin comes equipped with either two twin beds or one king bed, except for the Grand Privilege Alizes Suite (the only interconnecting cabin), which has a second bedroom and a sofa bed, offering an optional configuration of up to max 4 twin beds or minimum 2 king beds for 5-6 total guests.
Common to all staterooms and suites are a modern, bright decor; a private bathroom with walk-in shower, hairdryer and premium bath products; satellite TV and phone; individually controlled air conditioning; minibar; Nespresso coffee maker and tea kettle; bluetooth speaker; desk with writing paper; electronic safe; vanity and closet with shelves; 110/220-volt electricity; unlimited complimentary WiFi (connectivity may vary); 24-hour room service and concierge service from booking through return home.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Corsica Cruise
This Relais & Chateaux ship treats her guests to authentic and luxurious experiences with refined French touches. Come aboard for 3 decks of open-air spaces, upscale cuisine, onboard activity gear and the feel of a private yacht.
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