Ponant Explorations announced it has opened bookings for the first wave of its 2028 voyages in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys, including a lineup that spans the Caribbean, Antarctica, Africa and beyond; anchored by a new solar eclipse sailing in Western Australia.
A highlight is a 10-night Kimberley Coast voyage aboard Le Jacques Cartier (July 19–29, 2028), timed to coincide with a total solar eclipse on July 22. Sailing from Darwin to Broome, the itinerary includes visits to ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, Zodiac excursions through mangrove ecosystems and navigation of Montgomery Reef. Guests are expected to experience up to five minutes of totality while at sea.
Experts from Smithsonian Journeys will join the sailing, including meteorologist Joe Rao and NASA geologist Brent Garry, offering onboard lectures and insight throughout the voyage.
“At PONANT EXPLORATIONS, we believe that travel, when approached with curiosity and care, has the power to transform both the traveler and the world,” said Samuel Chamberlain, CEO of the Americas, PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP.
“Our alliance with Smithsonian Journeys brings together leading voices in their fields to illuminate the beauty and importance of the places we visit. From witnessing a total solar eclipse over the Kimberley coast to seeing gray whales in Baja or giant tortoises in Seychelles, our 2028 voyages are guided by a shared conviction that knowledge deepens wonder, and wonder inspires change.”
Each departure includes two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, with programming focused on history, science, wildlife or culture depending on the destination. Shore excursions are included in every port, along with airport transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days.
Other itineraries now open include:
- A seven-night Panama and Costa Rica sailing exploring the Panama Canal, Darién National Park and coastal communities
- A 10-night Madagascar and Seychelles voyage featuring wildlife encounters and island exploratio
- A Baja California expedition focused on whale watching in the Sea of Corte
- A Caribbean itinerary through the Windward Islands, including Saint Lucia and Barbado
- A South Africa and Namibia sailing around the Cape of Good Hop
- An 11-night Antarctica expedition with included flights and pre-cruise hotel stay
Ponant’s fleet includes all-balcony staterooms and all-inclusive pricing, covering dining, beverages, gratuities and Wi-Fi, with onboard cuisine developed in collaboration with Ducasse Conseil.
Additional 2028 departures are expected to be announced in the coming months.
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