Embark on an expertly curated charter cruise from Yokohama to Kobe with Ponant during cherry blossom season. Small-ship, expedition-style cruising with Ponant explores Japan’s cultural treasures, scenic coastlines and lesser visited gems, with special experiences designed to reveal an authentic Japan. Discover bustling seafood markets and tranquil tea plantations, ancient Zen Buddhist shrines, and the stunning Setouchi Islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Stroll the Old Town streets of some of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and visit the vibrant port city of Busan for a taste of South Korea. Visit places not found in guidebooks, stopping in to ports not accessible to larger vessels, with excursions by Zodiac craft allowing access to small rural villages and towns. Onboard naturalists enhance your experience with their expert knowledge during shore excursions, while onboard you may enjoy Japanese traditions such as a tea ceremony, a kimono dressing experience, and delicious creations from an onboard Japanese chef. Exclusive experiences: At select ports of call, guests can engage in cultural experiences, connect with residents, and savour dishes made from local ingredients. Examples include: • A Sake Relay brings premium sake from local breweries onboard to be enjoyed at the ship’s bar, allowing guests to taste renowned regional sakes without visiting the breweries. • A demonstration of the carving of freshly caught tuna, which is then served to guests at peak freshness – an unforgettable culinary moment. • Live performances of Japanese folk music is performed at select seaside spots and inside historical old residences. Your ship: Le Jacques-Cartier Launched in 2020, Le Jacques-Cartier is the latest addition to the PONANT Explorers range of vessels, combining modern design and innovative technologies for an intimate and refined cruise experience. With a maximum of 184 guests, Le Jacques-Cartier is able to visit smaller ports inaccessible to large ships, and is able to anchor offshore. The ship’s hydraulic platform allows the use of Zodiac craft for landings. Two restaurants offer a selection of French, International and of course Japanese cuisines, with 24-hour room service also available. Public spaces include the Main Lounge where you can often enjoy live music, the Panoramic Lounge for spectacular views; and the world’s only underwater lounge – the Blue Eye. Daily briefings and talks are given in the the theatre, along with various entertainment options. Cabins: With elegant and modern décor, all cabins feature balconies, ensuite bathroom with shower, air-conditioning, wi-fi, TV, safe, minibar, toiletries and 24-hour room service. Enjoy the views from the panoramic windows or make the most of your balcony, depending on the cabin of your choice. Lower Deck Balcony Stateroom: 19 sqm. Private 4 sqm balcony. Porthole and glass door. King bed, or two singles. 2 guests. Upper Deck Balcony Stateroom: 19 sqm. Private 4 sqm balcony. Either a sliding panoramic window or a glass door. Chaise lounge. King bed, or two singles. 2 guests. Deluxe Suite: 27 sqm. Private balcony from 3 to 6 sqm. Panoramic glass door and porthole OR a sliding panoramic window. King bed, or two singles. Armchair and sofa. Up to 3 guests. Prestige Suite: 38 sqm. Private balcony 8 sqm. Two sliding panoramic windows. Priority boarding, welcome champagne, daily fruit basket and butler service (Prestige Suite deck 6 only). One bedroom with King bed or two singles. Living room with convertible sofa, armchair. Two bathrooms. Up to 4 guests.
An exclusive cruise with Ponant
