The French Riviera Under Le Ponant’s Sails
Come aboard a motorsailor that feels like your own private yacht, for a cruise along the glamorous and historic French Riviera, plus a visit to Italy's Portofino. Experience fashionable seaside towns, citrus and vineyard fields, chic beaches, modern art, iconic flavors and quiet pine forests.
Come aboard a motorsailor that feels like your own private yacht, for an exceptional 8-day cruise to the heart of the glamorous and historic French Riviera. 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.
One of the world’s most popular holiday spots and an endless source of inspiration for the greatest artists, the iconic Côte d’Azur appears against the pure blue of the sky and sea. On shore, timeless villages reveal the ghosts of Picasso, Fitzgerald, Sagan, Vadim and Bardot as you wander through narrow streets lined with fig trees and wisteria.
From Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, sail to Portofino to experience its traditions and authenticity. In Menton, on the border between France and Italy, narrow streets wind their way inland to the region’s gold: the Menton lemon. Follow the scent of citrus fruits as you stroll through this town, beloved by botanists and artists for its microclimate and gentle way of life. Next sail to Antibes for chic beaches and lectures on modern art by Picasso, Matisse and others.
Next, visit Cannes for its iconic Croisette seaside promenade lined with jewelers, leather goods boutiques and other fashion houses facing an endless beach of fine sand. Across the water, the charming island of Saint-Honorat will reveal the secrets of the vineyards of the Abbey of Lérins. In Saint-Tropez, small boats rub shoulders with gleaming yachts, hidden streets lead to glittering establishments serving iconic flavors, and surrounding vineyards meet the sea in a thick green mantle. Further west, visit Cassis (open to a limited number of cruise ships) for its tranquil, unspoiled natural environment. Take in striking landscapes on a hike or on a boat ride.
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 French Riviera cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s other small ship Mediterranean cruises and Mediterranean trips.
The French Riviera Under Le Ponant's Sails Itinerary
Sail the French Riviera, round-trip from Nice, for iconic towns blending Mediterranean charm, coastal glamor and enchanting landscapes, plus lesser-visited ports. 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.
Close to the Cinque Terre, Portofino is the jewel of the Ligurian Riviera. This “small village that stretches like a half moon around a silent basin,” described by Guy de Maupassant, is today a pretty, lively little port that has managed to preserve the authenticity of its maritime traditions, which have been recognized since Ancient times. Built in the hollow of a small natural cove sheltered by the pine forest, the village is at the heart of a protected maritime reserve. The shimmering colors of its house fronts and the exceptional location of this village have inspired many authors and artists. You will also see the Portofino lighthouse, immaculate in its green setting. Perched on the Punta del Capo, it watches over the peninsula and its postcard setting.
City of art and history, Menton is located at the far eastern side of the Cote d’Azur. You will be won over by the Provence houses with their palms and lemon trees. Very close to the Saint-Michel-Archange basilica, take a mosey around the charming place aux Herbes, and the medieval streets that follow a sinuous plan. Here and there, you can see snatches of the coastline. These picturesque points of view have attracted artists since the beginning of the 20th century. Don’t miss works by the most famous Menton figure: Jean Cocteau. They are exhibited in two museums: the Bastion museum and the Séverin-Wunderman collection.
Under the Mediterranean sun, on the shores of the famous French Riviera, Antibes captivates and enchants travelers from around the world. The Antipolis trading post was founded by the Greeks shortly after Marseille, in the 5th century BC, but it was under the influence of the Romans that the city prospered. The expansion of the city towards the cape of Antibes began in 1860 under the Second French Empire, marking a boom in tourism. Wander through its old town, encircled by ramparts built by Vauban, and discover its cathedral, its Picasso museum and the many workshops and shops run by local craftspeople. Next, stroll along the path leading to the 16th-century Fort Carré (square fort) via the charming Vauban port, as you admire the sea and the endless horizon.
From the shadows into the light… In the 1800s, Cannes was still just a modest little fishing village which over time has been transformed into the elegant town we know today. You will be surprised to see the extent to which Cannes has retained its Provencal character, as you explore its most valuable treasures: the Castre Museum, built by the monks of Lérins and today a Historic Monument or the Gothic Notre Dame d’Espérance Church and bell tower.
Saint-Tropez is built on an attractive peninsula on the Côte d’Azur. In its delightful harbors, you will probably be surprised to see fishing trawlers alongside pleasure craft, yachts and jet-skis. You can do some celebrity spotting along the quays edged with Provence houses. Behind the waterfront, you can meander through the floral streets that lead to the baroque church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption. At the top of the village, the citadel provides a panorama overlooking the entire coastline. It is festooned with justifiably famous seaside sites, like the very beautiful Pampelonne beach.
A discreet outpost of the glittering French Riviera, the port of Cassis masterfully plays its Provençal music. Between the stunning calanques coves and Cap Canaille, the town stretches out with charming southern houses, their blinds repainted countless times, while the port exudes such a sunny and recognizable feeling, giving everything here a festive spirit. The surroundings are also well worth the visit: hills drooping beneath the vines, parasol pines curling up into the azure of the sky, prickly pears hanging onto white limestone, the Provence of the Fauvist painters unveils itself in this idyllic spot.
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 French Riviera Under Le Ponant’s Sails 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 French Riviera Under Le Ponant’s Sails 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 French Riviera 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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