Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
PONANT is the first cruise company to take you to the heart of the sublime landscapes of the tropical islands in southern Japan during a cruise. On this 12-day itinerary aboard Le Jacques Cartier, from Hong Kong to Naha, you will discover the rich natural heritage, traditional villages and craft of the Okinawa, Yaeyama and Sakishima Islands, in the Ryukyu archipelago.
From the “Pearl of the Orient”, Hong Kong, you will set sail for the southern islands of Japan, including Ishigaki, the largest island in the Yaeyama archipelago. In the heart of the magnificent Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, you will be able to enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the eponymous city or discover Kabira Bay, renowned for its idyllic scenery, combining crystal-clear turquoise water and beaches of white sand.
Following a port of call in the picturesque village of Taketomijima, with its traditional Okinawan dwellings and its idyllic sandy expanses, Le Jacques Cartier will sail south to the island of Iriomotejima. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this little corner of paradise will enchant you with its authentic and preserved character, with its wild beaches lying alongside traditional villages surrounded by luxurious tropical forest: jungle, mangrove, rivers, waterfalls. This unique biodiversity is made up of many endemic species.
The landscapes on the remote island of Yonagunijima, the easternmost of the Ryukyu Islands, offer a striking contrast: cliffs, windswept meadows, wild horses. The beauty of its sea-beds and their mysterious rocky formations will delight the most experienced divers.
After calling at the stunning Miyako Island, you will head for Kumejima, the island that linked Okinawa to China in the past. Famous for its ‘Eisa’, a form of folk dance performed to the rhythm of traditional drums, this multifaceted island will reveal itself through its natural treasures: the mythical Mifuga rock formation or the idyllic beach of Hatenohama, a point of reference for fans of the underwater world. You will also call at Iheya Island, Okinawa’s northernmost territory, where the traditional culture of the region is preserved. You will be able to discover a few aspects of this through a traditional “Eisa” show featuring traditional drums.
Then, on the western coast of the island of Okinawa, fall under the spell of Motobu and its idyllic beaches bordered by breathtaking nature. Your final port of call will be Zamami, in the Kerama Islands. You will enjoy the unspoiled beauty of this pristine island, known the world over for the distinctive blue of the surrounding sea, called “Kerama blue”. The sea life in the area is also exceptionally rich and sea turtles can often be spotted swimming among the coral.
Your cruise will draw an end in Naha, your port of disembarkation, on the island of Okinawa.
Ref : EX220226
A unique cruise to discover the sublime landscapes of the subtropical islands of southern Japan. The presence of an experienced team of naturalist-guides. Enjoy a carefully selected program of included...
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Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
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This cruise can include activities such as zodiac outings and landings (sometimes with "wet landings"), moderate walks to more active hikes, all accompanied by naturalist guides.
Ports of call, visited sites, outings and landings will depend on weather conditions, winds and the state of the sea. These can force a change of plans at any time. The Captain and the Naturalist guides Leader may at any time cancel or stop any activity, or even modify the itinerary. The final itinerary will be confirmed by the Captain, who will take into account the touristic quality of the sites and above all, the safety of the passengers. His decision will be based on advice from experts and authorities.
Travelling to isolated regions is an exhilarating experience. In remote areas, please remember that you are far from modern hospitals with full medical facilities, thus evacuation is extremely expensive. Without adequate medical coverage, all expenses will have to be immediately paid with your personal funds. We urge you to subscribe to full coverage insurance, choose your insurance company very carefully, be extremely vigilant and ensure your insurance is fully comprehensive, especially if you are insured by your credit card. PONANT offers an insurance contract with extensive guarantees, please contact us for more information.
Clothing tips:
Accessories:
Please note:
During your visits to some local communities, all guests will be required to dress respectfully. Ladies must have their shoulders and thighs covered. Gentlemen should have their shoulders covered also.
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
For men:
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
For men:
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
TECHNICAL OUTFITS:
ACCESSORIES:
HEALTH CARE:
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Embarkation 22/2/2026 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 22/2/2026 at 6:00 pm
Hong Kong, known as the “Fragrant harbour”, bordered by the South China Sea, is a heady place attracting tourists from the world over. This former British colony today combines ultramodern shopping malls and authentic markets like the Ladie’s Market or the night market on Temple Street. At first sight, you’ll be overwhelmed by the city’s architecture which, because of lack of ground space, reaches skywards, with its 1,250 skyscrapers and other towers. Believing is seeing, so if you go up to Victoria Peak, the highest point on the island, you’ll see a dizzying and unforgettable view of the bay.
Arrival 23/2/2026
Departure 24/2/2026
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
Arrival 25/2/2026
Departure 25/2/2026
Located to the south of the main island of the Yaeyama archipelago, Ishigaki boasts all the aspects of an authentic piece of paradise. You have guessed it, you do not come here for its skyscrapers but for its pure emerald waters and idyllic beaches. The waters off Shiraho, on the island's south-west coast, have one of the largest areas of blue coral in the world.
Arrival 26/2/2026
Departure 26/2/2026
Off the coast of the Okinawa Prefecture, Taketomi Island (Taketomijima) is fascinating for its traditional character, preserved in a beautiful, lush setting. Like its big sisters, Ishigaki and Kuroshima, this island in the Yaeyama archipelago is the ideal destination for an immersion in typical landscapes and the insular way of life of the former Ryukyu Kingdom. Here, time seems to have stood still. There are very few cars about; bicycles and carriages drawn by imposing oxen remain the only means of transport. This is an ideal opportunity to wander through the picturesque streets lined with traditional dwellings with red-tiled roofs and lion-shaped shisa statues placed in front of the vast majority of houses to keep evil spirits at bay.
Arrival 27/2/2026
Departure 27/2/2026
Nestled in the very heart of the Yaeyama archipelago, Iriomote Island conjures visions of a hidden paradise. With 90% of the island covered by thick jungle, crossed by rivers and impressive mangrove forests, Iriomote is an ideal destination for fans of large preserved spaces. With exceptional fauna and flora, this lush jewel is home to many endemic species: you may be lucky enough to get to glimpse an Iriomote cat or a crested serpent eagle. During this port of call, you will also have the possibility of admiring the captivating underwater world during a free diving session or contemplating this lush jungle close up on a cruise along the calm waters of the island’s rivers.
Arrival 28/2/2026
Departure 28/2/2026
The geographic situation of the island of Yonagunijima, the most remote and western in the Japanese archipelago of Okinawa, makes it a wild and preserved territory. Between cliffs plunging into the sea and white sandy beaches, lush meadows and palettes of blue, we can admire the last sunset every day here in the Land of the Rising Sun. The island is also renowned for the Yonaguni horses, a small breed standing only a metre high, which graze freely here. If you dive, Yonagunijima will delight you with its sea beds which are as exceptional as they are mysterious.
Arrival 1/3/2026
Departure 1/3/2026
Situated between the East China Sea and the Philippine Sea, Miyakojima is the main island of the Miyako Islands, in the Sakishima archipelago. The fourth largest island in the Okinawa prefecture, it is known for its many sugar cane plantations and some of Japan’s most beautiful beaches. Myriad multicoloured fish await you during unforgettable swims and snorkelling.
Arrival 2/3/2026
Departure 2/3/2026
Located 90 km (56 miles) to the south-west of Okinawa Honto, Kumejima is a multifaceted island home to natural treasures. Hatenohama, a stunning 7 km-long (4.3 miles) fine-sand beach, promises wonderful carefree moments discovering the exceptional underwater worlds off the coast of Kumejima. Mifuga, a rock formation on the north coast of the island with a hole right through its middle, is a great example of the erosion along the coast. The eastern peninsula offers another geological feature, visible at low tide: 1,000 flat rocks each around one metre (3.2 feet) in diameter, formed by the contraction of lava from a nearby eruption a million years ago. They create a rocky plateau resembling a traditional Japanese tatami, hence the name Tatami-ishi.
Arrival 3/3/2026
Departure 3/3/2026
The northernmost island of the prefecture of Okinawa, Iheyajima is a small territory that will take you back in time. At the heart of preserved natural landscapes that are a reminder of the Okinawa of the past, the inhabitants perpetuate traditional culture, particularly by maintaining ancient rites and ceremonies in honour of the divinities of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The island is home to several historic sites, such as the tomb of the ancestors of King Sho Hashi, the unifier of Okinawa and founder of the Ryukyu Kingdom, which was independent from Japan until the end of the 19th century. In this natural setting, whose emblematic Nento-Hiramatsu pine tree is a national monument, perhaps you will enjoy the privilege of seeing a traditional “Eisa” drum performance.
Arrival 4/3/2026
Departure 4/3/2026
To the north of the island of Okinawa, lying between the azure ocean and lush hills, Motobu inspires contemplation. This Japanese paradise, far off the beaten track, unveils landscapes steeped in poetry. A setting of pristine nature, with Mount Yae as a backdrop, Motobu reveals itself through its white sandy forests and its wild and preserved Yambaru forest, home to a rare wealth of fauna and flora. The hiking paths invite you to explore this incomparable nature, where every step reveals breathtaking panoramas and age-old legends.
Arrival 5/3/2026
Departure 5/3/2026
Zamami is an island in the Kerama archipelago, 40 km (25 miles) west of Okinawa Island in the China Sea. Visitors to this 16 km2 (6 mi2) quasi-uninhabited isle are enchanted by the many untouched natural treasures they find here. You will discover a tranquil island with lush vegetation, lined with stunning white-sand bays bathing in the glimmering ‘Kerama blue’ waters around the archipelago. Zamami is also renowned for the beauty of its coral reefs, where multicoloured fish engage in an endless mesmerising ballet. The observation deck on Mount Takatsuki reveals stunning views of the Kerama Islands, granted national park status in 2014. With subtle shifting shades of azure above and all around, this island truly is paradise.
Arrival 6/3/2026
Disembarkation 6/3/2026 at 8:00 am
Capital of Okinawa Prefecture, the town of Naha is located on the south-west of the island. You will love its lively atmosphere, particularly along Kokusai Dori, otherwise known as 'international street'. The picturesque Makishi Public Market, nicknamed 'Naha's kitchen' offers a profusion of colourful fish, Okinawan foodstuffs and local spices and you can sample delicacies cooked on the spot.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Hong Kong
Meet at Hong Kong Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be driven to the Regent Hong Kong 5* hotel.
Afternoon and dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Hong Kong
Breakfast and check-out.
You will start your day by discovering the essence of well-being and serenity with Tai Chi, a subtle and ancient martial art rooted in Taoist philosophy: legend has it that it was created by Zhang Sanfeng, a Taoist monk from Mount Wudang in the 13th Century. Each movement will bring you closer to ancient wisdom and ultimate tranquility.
Then, you will continue with a visit to Nan Lian Garden. Nestled in the Diamond Hill district, this traditional Chinese garden offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You will stroll along paved pathways lined with beautiful bonsai trees, lotus ponds and picturesque waterfalls while the soothing sounds of nature envelop you in an atmosphere of calm and serenity.
Lunch will be served in a local restaurant.
After lunch, you will proceed to the majestic Chi Lin Nunnery, a gem of architecture inspired by the Tang dynasty. You will wander through its beautifully landscaped gardens, where tranquil ponds, sculptural bonsai trees, and delicate flowers create a visual symphony of colors and shapes.
You will then be taken to Mei Ho House, an iconic landmark of urban development and social history in Hong Kong. This complex, once public housing for residents affected by a fire in 1953, has been beautifully restored to preserve its old-world charm while incorporating modern amenities.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Hong Kong to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Regent Hong Kong is an iconic hotel situated in the heart of Hong Kong, renowned for its refined luxury and exceptional hospitality. Located in the prestigious district of Tsim Sha Tsui, it offers direct access to the waterfront of Victoria Harbour and numerous major attractions. The hotel features a range of sumptuous rooms, elegantly decorated and equipped with the latest technologies. Staying at the Regent Hong Kong guarantees an unforgettable experience, blending the charm of Asian hospitality with the demands of international luxury in a spectacular setting overlooking one of the world's most famous harbors.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Please note:
Contact of your hotel:
Regent Hong Kong
18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon
Hong Kong SAR
China
Telephone number: (852) 2721 2111
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$1,280
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Naha
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local representative.
First, you will visit Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum located at Okinawa Peace Memorial Park. It is the largest war memorial in Okinawa. The images of war and model exhibits constitute an appeal for everlasting peace. The museum exhibits are divided up into five separate areas that cover the history of Okinawa leading up to WWII. After your time at the museum, you will have some time at the park. At Okinawa Peace Memorial Park, you will see Heiwano Ishiji. Heiwa no Ishiji means "cornerstone of peace". This monument was erected not only to remember those who were killed in the wars, but also for those who sincerely wish for a lasting peace as a result of the war.
Lunch will be served at a local restaurant (Japanese menu).
Then, on to Shuri Castle ruins. Shuri Castle shows the strong influence of Chinese architecture because the Ryukyu Kingdom was a vassal state of China. Ryukyu was a small kingdom, including Okinawa, in vassalage to both Japan and China. The castle was a unique mixture of Japanese and Chinese architectural styles. Nineteen structures stood within its walls. It was the residence of the king and the seat of local government until 1879, when Okinawa was made a prefecture of Japan. Unfortunately, the main castle building rebuilt in 1992 has been burned down in 2019 due to fire. The underground castle ruin which is designated as a part of world heritage, and the castle gate survived the fire.
You will then have some time at Kokusaidori street. Kokusaidori, which literally translates "International Road", is the main street of Naha which is approximately two kilometres long. On Kokusaidori, you will find numerous cafes, bars, souvenir shops, and boutiques. Enjoy some free time for shopping if time permits.
You will then check-in to the 5* hotel Hyatt Regency Naha selected by PONANT.
After a short break, you will be transfered to a local restaurant for dinner.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Naha
After breakfast and check-out, time at leisure depending on your flight schedule.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
Your hotel:
Hyatt Regency Naha is located in Sakurazaka, the bustling heart of Naha and combine Hyatt’s legendary standard of service with genuine Okinawan-style hospitality to provide a unique and inspiring experience.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
Your programme does not include:
Please note:
Contact of your hotel:
Hotel Hyatt Regency Naha
3-6-20 Makishi, Naha
Okinawa, Japan, 900-0013
Telephone : (+81) 98 866 8888
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$1,120
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.