Ponant Explorations: Le Jacques Cartier
Ancestral Cultures of the South Pacific
A Discovery Cruise
Lautoka to Papeete: 14 Nights
Departs: 6 September 2026
Papeete to Lautoka: 13 Nights
Departs: 7 February 2027
Scattered across the vast South Pacific, the archipelagos of Fiji, Tonga, the Cook Islands, and French Polynesia reveal their hidden wonders. Between emerald mountains and crystal-clear lagoons, each horizon offers untouched beauty and vibrant traditions.
As you sail from one island to the next, be enchanted by turquoise waters teeming with manta rays and tropical fish. Palm-fringed beaches bask in golden sunlight, while villages come alive with song, dance, and stories passed down through generations. From the tranquil waters of Motu Mahana to the wild shores of Rarotonga and the striking peaks of Moorea, every moment is steeped in magic - with the scent of Tahitian flowers and the glow of sunset turning each experience into something unforgettable.
Scuba diving is available on both itineraries for an additional charge, with a certified Ponant Explorations instructor onboard.
Ponant Exploration Inclusions:
Fine dining in all the restaurants and 24-hour room service
All drinks in restaurants, bars and minibars
Presentations delivered by naturalist guides and guests of honour
Non-motorised water sports activities, such as kayaking or stand-up paddling (diving not included)
One optional included activity (per person, per day), alternating with Zodiac excursions and landings led by naturalist guides for full immersion in Polynesian nature
Free and unlimited Wi-Fi service on board
Access to the fitness centre and steam room or sauna
Pricing:
From AU$13,170 per person
Pricing is based on twin share in a Superior Stateroom. Free Solo Supplement available on 13 December 2026 cruise.
For alternative cabins categories and your preferred date please contact the Our Cruise Specialists
14 Nights – Ancestral Cultures Cruise on Le Jacques Cartier:
Day 1. Embark: Lautoka, Fiji
Day 2. Suva, Fiji
Day 3. Beqa Island, Fiji
Day 4. Savusavu, Fiji
Day 5. At Sea
Day 6. Vava'u Islands, Tonga
Day 7. At sea (Cross the International Dateline)
Day 8. Rarotonga, Cook Islands
Day 9. At Sea
Day 10. Bora Bora, Society Islands
Day 11. Bora Bora, Society Islands
Day 12. Motu Mahana, Taha'a Island
Day 13. Moorea Island
Day 14. Moorea Island
Day 15. Disembark: Papeete, Tahiti Island
Itineraries may be changed at the cruiselines discretion
13 Nights – Ancestral Cultures Cruise on Le Jacques Cartier:
Day 1. Papeete, Tahiti Island
Day 2. Moorea Island
Day 3. Bora Bora, Society Islands
Day 4. Bora Bora, Society Islands
Day 5. At Sea
Day 6. Aitutaki, Cook Islands
Day 7. At sea
Day 8. At Sea
Day 9. At Sea (Cross the International Dateline)
Day 10. Vava'u Islands, Tongads
Day 11. At Sea
Day 12. Savusavu, Fiji
Day 13. Suva, Fiji
Day 14. Disembark: Lautoka, Fiji
Itineraries may be changed at the cruiselines discretion
About Ponant Explorations and Le Jacques-Cartier:
Ponant Explorations Loyalty Benefits:
Ponant Yacht Club
When you book your second cruise you will become part a member of the PONANT Yacht Club and you will enjoy personalised attention, exclusive offers both onboard and on land, and the best dedicated offers and discounts off future cruises.
Referrals Program
Refer your friends and family members and you and your referees will benefit from an AUD$800 discount per stateroom.
Ponant Explorations is an exponent for the French way of life across every sea on the globe. On board, this is translated through exceptional services, a multilingual crew and bringing French know-how to the fore.
Le Jacques-Cartier is environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
The Blue Eye, an underwater lounge offers a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Our Cruise Conditions:
YOUR PAYMENTS TO OUR WORLD LTD ARE PROTECTED BY TAANZ. Unless otherwise stated, prices include SHARE TWIN / DOUBLE cabins and inclusions as specified. Special conditions apply for all Bonus Inclusions. Prices are in Australian dollars and subject to currency fluctuations and are for payment by direct deposit into our New Zealand bank account. Q Card & Credit Card prices are available on application. A cruise deposit will be required and time of booking. Amendment and cancellation fees do apply and can be up to 100% after booking is confirmed. Airfares are non-refundable, non-transferable, name changes are not permitted, include all prepayable airline surcharges, levies and airport taxes, require full payment for ticketing purposes at time of booking, and additional airfare rules will apply – please contact our specialists for more information. Our cruise deals are capacity controlled andrestrictions may apply, and accommodation & airfares may not be available at time of booking. Images displayed are indicative and will vary by ship and cabin. Prices and details were correct as at 2 July 2025 and are subject to change without notification and our Website Conditions & Booking Conditions apply.