Travel Advice
Duration
11 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
7 Ports
2 March
Setting sail from Colombo
Don't be deceived by the urban sprawl; Colombo may be a little chaotic, but there is plenty to recommend Sri Lanka's colourful capital. Faded colonial architecture and beautiful Buddhist temples hint at the city's considerable history, while the excellent restaurants, lively bars and characterful streets provide the perfect introduction to contemporary Sri Lankan culture.
3 March
At sea
4 March
Sri Lanka: Trincomalee
Trincomalee, on Sri Lanka’s less developed east coast, has begun to re-emerge as a tourist destination following the end of the island’s bitter civil war in 2009. The sleepy streets are scattered with churches, mosques and Hindu temples, and the nearby beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli are stunning.
5 March
Sri Lanka: Hambantota
Investment has poured into Hambantota since the city was devastated by the 2004 tsunami, and this is now one of South Asia’s biggest ports. Hambantota is a jumping off point for Yala National Park, famous for its leopards, and the less well known Bundala National Park, rich in birdlife including flamingos and storks.
6 March
Sri Lanka: Galle
The Dutch colonial architecture of the Fort, Galle’s walled old quarter, is one of the highlights of Sri Lanka’s south coast. The atmospheric streets are home to all manner of beguiling boutiques, cafés and restaurants, and the beach towns of Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna are just a short drive away.
7 March
At sea
8-9 March
India: Kochi
The port of Kochi, commonly known as Cochin, occupies a strategic location on India’s Malabar Coast, and its history as a trading hub is reflected in the blend of European, Chinese and Arabian influences. It’s also the gateway to the idyllic Kerala Backwaters, which are best appreciated on a houseboat cruise.
10 March
At sea
11 March
India: Mormugao (Goa)
The port of Mormugao is the gateway to the diminutive Indian state of Goa, famous for its golden sand beaches, hippie vibe and unique Portuguese heritage. Highlights include the beautiful colonial architecture of Old Goa, the charming capital, Panjim, and the fragrant spice farms of the interior.
12-13 March
Arriving in Mumbai
We love Mumbai! Formerly known as Bombay, this amazing city is larger than life and packed to bursting with things to see and do. Here people of all religions and nationalities live cheek by jowl, thriving communities from all over the world with the foods, smells, languages and rituals maintained at top volume - here in Mumbai, everything really is turned up to 11! For many people, the seething rush of humanity is too much, and we quite understand why some tell us they will never go back. But we think you could return time and again, and never get to grips with this thriving city. Be prepared to be overwhelmed!
Our tip
Keep your hands clean, drink plenty of bottled water, be careful about what you eat and you’ll be absolutely fine. Oh, and keep an open mind.
Your home from home
Sleek and stylish, Ponant's wonderful Explorer yachts blend luxury and intimacy with a discreet elegance and tasteful décor.
What we love
Named after six of France's most famous explorers, Le Champlain, Le Lapérouse, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont d'Urville, Le Bellot and Le Jacques Cartier offer exciting and adventurous itineraries in the utmost comfort. Technologically advanced, with the latest in environmentally friendly hardware, the new ships embody Ponant's trademark élan and flair, with just 92 spacious rooms and suites, a stylish pool deck and an intimate, refined onboard ambience.
| Capacity | 184 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 110 Staff |
| Style | Refined with a wonderful mix of a modern super yacht and nautical tradition, all with a French flair. |
| Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Take a private tour around Mumbai
Get a guide to take you away from the tourist hotspots, exploring instead the many different communities and markets, for a taste of the real Mumbai. We thought the Fishing Slum was a wonderful place.
