PONANT EXPLORATIONS and Smithsonian Journeys have expanded their 2027 program with several new and returning voyages, including a special solar eclipse itinerary. These cruises combine expert-led enrichment with thoughtfully chosen destinations across Europe, North America and Antarctica.
One of the standout departures is A Solar Eclipse at Sea: Voyage Along the Iberian Peninsula, sailing roundtrip from Lisbon on July 30, 2027. Aboard Le Boréal, guests will have the chance to observe the solar eclipse over the Mediterranean while calling on Málaga. The itinerary also includes Portuguese ports Portimão and Figueira da Foz, and Spanish stops in Marbella and Cádiz, with two Smithsonian Journeys specialists joining the voyage to provide talks and context.
Several popular itineraries return in 2027 with onboard discussions led by Smithsonian experts and other guest lecturers:
8-Night Treasures of Japan and South Korea by Sea
Sailing May 1, 2027 from Busan, South Korea to Osaka, Japan, this cruise visits culturally significant sites including the Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Itsukushima Shinto Shrine and Bulguksa Temple. Guests will also experience Japan’s famed hot springs and other highlights of the region.
© PONANT Explorations
7- or 8-Night Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba
Departing May 18 and June 7, 2027 from Nice, France to Valletta, Malta, these voyages explore five Mediterranean islands and a wealth of UNESCO World Heritage sites, including ancient Greek and Roman ruins, scenic coastlines and regional cultural experiences.
7-Night Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea
Two departures—June 11 and August 5, 2027—run between Helsinki, Finland and Copenhagen, Denmark. For 2027, the itinerary returns with an added highlight: a presentation and discussion featuring former Polish President and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lech Wałęsa, offering unique historical and political insight.
8-Night Voyage Along the Great Lakes
Departing August 13 and 21, 2027 between Toronto, Canada and Milwaukee, United States, this cruise visits ports across all five Great Lakes, showcasing the region’s maritime history, urban centers and natural scenery along the U.S.–Canada border.
© PONANT Explorations
10-Night Antarctica: The White Continent
Departing Jan. 17, 2027 roundtrip from Ushuaia, Argentina, this expedition focuses on Antarctica’s dramatic landscapes and wildlife. Opportunities include wildlife watching, visits to research and historical whaling stations, and optional hikes and kayaking for active exploration.
7-Night Cruising Southern Spain and Portugal
Sailing May 1, 2027 from Barcelona, Spain to Lisbon, Portugal, this itinerary highlights the cultural richness of southern Spain and Portugal. Notable experiences include an Algarve wine tasting in Lagos and visits to historic cities and coastal towns along the route.
10-Night Baja and the Sea of Cortez: In Search of the Great Whales
PONANT returns to Baja California in 2027 with a special voyage in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys. Departing Feb. 10 from Cabo San Lucas, the program features lectures by marine biologist and whale specialist Heidi Dewar and conservation biologist Monica Franco, focusing on marine life and conservation efforts in the Sea of Cortez.
These expanded 2027 offerings from PONANT Explorations and Smithsonian Journeys blend expert-led learning with carefully curated routes, giving travelers opportunities to explore unique destinations, cultural landmarks and natural wonders across multiple continents.