According to luxury small-ship line Ponant Cruises, Asia remains an ideal destination for travelers seeking unforgettable scenery and rich cultural experiences. To meet that demand, the line is introducing five new itineraries in Asia for 2019.
All voyages will be aboard Ponant’s new Explorer vessel, Le Lapérouse, where guests can enjoy the intimacy of a small ship together with the refined, five-star service Ponant is known for. Exclusive to this class of ship is Blue Eye, a multisensory underwater lounge that offers a unique way to experience the sea on these expeditions.
Below is an overview of three of the featured itineraries:
Scattered Islands of the Banda Sea
This 12-day itinerary explores the natural wonders of eastern Indonesia. Highlights include the heart of Triton Bay, the Maluku Islands, the Wakatobi Marine Park—home to one of the world’s largest barrier reefs—and a visit to Komodo Island, where guests can observe the region’s famous Komodo dragons in their native habitat.
The Best of Japan
This nine-day cruise offers a curated introduction to Japan’s history and culture, from samurai traditions to geisha heritage. Port calls include Tamano, known for the serene Korakuen Garden; Hiroshima, with its historic Shinto shrine; the welcoming city of Busan; and Sakaiminato, where visitors can explore medieval influences and local customs.
Gems of South-East Asia
Spanning 17 days, this extensive itinerary visits Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines to provide an in-depth regional experience. The route connects cultural highlights from Bali to Hong Kong and includes stops at the Borobudur World Heritage site, Bandar Seri Begawan, and Kota Kinabalu, among other notable destinations.
These new itineraries emphasize immersive shore excursions, refined onboard amenities and the small-ship advantage of accessing lesser-known ports. Travelers can expect a blend of cultural discovery, natural beauty and comfortable, high-end accommodations aboard Le Lapérouse.
For more information about the full set of itineraries, dates and detailed shore programs, consult Ponant’s official website for complete schedules and booking details.