Panama, Southern Caribbean & Lesser Antilles: Bonaire, St Lucia & Martinique
Panama, Colombia and Caribbean islands
When the sun sinks into the sea and steeps the sky in colours no evening repeats.
Interested in this voyage?
Personal advice, no call centre - a reply within 24 hours.
Colón to Fort-de-France
Twelve nights link the Atlantic gateway of the Panama Canal with the eastern Caribbean. Le Bougainville leaves Colon, anchors off the Guna Yala islands, calls at the Spanish fortress city of Cartagena and then follows the arc of the Lesser Antilles up to Martinique. Bonaire opens the coral world of the ABC islands, and the Pitons of St Lucia draw the most distinctive landmark of the voyage. The 184 guests of the Explorer Class experience every cove from the marina, with 16 Zodiacs and below the waterline in the Blue Eye Lounge, premium all-inclusive throughout.
Route highlights
- Colón: Atlantic gateway to the Panama Canal with Caribbean connections.
- San-Blas-Inseln: Autonomous Guna Yala archipelago with 365 islands and Mola tradition.
- Cartagena (CO): UNESCO old town with fortress walls and Castillo San Felipe.
- Santa Marta: Colombia's oldest city at the foot of the Sierra Nevada, gateway to Tayrona National Park.
- Bonaire: ABC island with clear coral waters, ideal for snorkelling excursions.
- Soufriere: St Lucia's twin-peaked Pitons landmark frames the bay.
- Fort-de-France: Lively capital of Martinique with market hall and the Schoelcher Library.
Early booking advantage: Voyages in 2028 fill quickly - premium cabins are often reserved 18-24 months in advance. An early booking enquiry is non-binding and secures your preferred cabin category.
The Route
Colón
12 nights
Fort-de-France
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Colón (Panama) · Embarkation
Colón sits at the Caribbean entrance of the Panama Canal. The canal - opened in 1914 and 80 kilometres long - is one of the great engineering wonders of humankind; 35 to 40 ships pass through it every day.
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Portobelo
On the southern Brazilian Atlantic coast in the state of Santa Catarina, this coastal town nestles against a sheltered bay of clear, calm water. Just offshore lies Ilha de Porto Belo, a popular snorkelling and diving spot within a marine reserve.
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San-Blas-Inseln
Over 300 islands and islets belonging to the indigenous Guna people - an autonomous territory of Panama. The San Blas Islands combine palm-fringed beach paradise with vibrant Guna culture and crystal-clear water.
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Cartagena
Cartagena is a port city on the Spanish Mediterranean coast in the Murcia region and home to one of the country's principal naval bases. Carthaginians, Romans and Moors all shaped the bay, and the Roman theatre from the time of Augustus, rediscovered in the city centre, is among the most impressive in Spain.
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Santa Marta
Santa Marta sits on Colombia's Caribbean coast and is one of the oldest cities in South America. The town with its colonial old centre lies at the foot of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.
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At sea
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Bonaire
Bonaire is the diving paradise of the ABC Islands. The entire coast is a marine national park, flamingo colonies live in the salt pans, and the central Washington-Slagbaai National Park reveals a stark volcanic landscape with cacti and iguanas.
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At sea
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Mayreau
Mayreau is the smallest inhabited island of the Grenadines. Salt Whistle Bay - a perfect crescent of beach with crystal-clear water - is considered one of the finest bays in the Caribbean.
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Port Elizabeth, Bequia
Port Elizabeth on Bequia (Grenadines) is the most charming Caribbean harbour for yachts. The small bay with wooden schooner boatyards on the beach, the turtle conservation programme and the whaling tradition make Port Elizabeth unique.
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Pigeon Island Beach
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Soufrière (St. Lucia)
On the west coast of the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, Soufrière sits at the foot of the striking Pitons volcanic peaks. Sulphur springs, rainforest and a botanical garden make the town a nature destination.
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Les Saintes
Small archipelago south of Guadeloupe in the French Antilles arc of the Caribbean, with Terre-de-Haut as its main settlement. The sheltered bay ranks among the world's most beautiful natural harbours and recalls Brittany with its white houses.
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Fort-de-France · Disembarkation
Le Bougainville
Le Bougainville has sailed since 2019 as the third ship of the Explorer class. 184 guests, Blue Eye Underwater Lounge, ice-reinforced hull. Expedition with the comfort and cuisine that have made Ponant the first address for discerning explorers.
The Ship
Cabins
Owner's Suite
The most exclusive suite on board, located on Deck 6. Separate bedroom, balneo bathtub, panoramic views, butler service and personalised attention from the crew.
Cabin layout
Prestige Suite with Balcony
Elegant suites on Decks 5 and 6. Separate living and sleeping areas, two dressing rooms, generous balcony. Round-the-clock butler service.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Suite with Balcony
Spacious suites on Deck 6 with a separate bathtub and shower, sitting area and a private balcony. Butler service included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin
Outside cabin with a large panoramic window on Deck 3. Ideal for solo travellers or couples. All on-board amenities included.
Cabin layout
Deluxe Cabin with Balcony
Comfortable outside cabins on Decks 3 and 4 with a private balcony. Convertible twin or double beds, shower bathroom.
Cabin layout
Prestige Cabin with Balcony
The most popular category: premium cabins on Decks 4-6 with a private balcony, sitting area and convertible beds. Unobstructed views of the destination.
Cabin layout
Deck plan · Le Bougainville
Cabin prices
Prices per person in double cabin (suites: based on double occupancy), all-inclusive. Subject to availability.
| Category | Price p.P. | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Stateroom - 3 | € 7.190 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 4 - 4 | € 7.930 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 - 5 | € 8.300 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 - 6 | € 8.740 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 3 - 3 | € 11.230 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 4 - 4 | € 11.230 | On request | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 5 - 5 | € 11.230 | Available | Enquire |
| Deluxe Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 11.230 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 5 Suite - | € 13.430 | Available | Enquire |
| Prestige Deck 6 Suite - | € 14.020 | Available | Enquire |
| Privilege Suite Deck 5 - 5 | € 14.460 | Available | Enquire |
| Privilege Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 14.460 | Available | Enquire |
| Grand Deluxe Suite Deck 6 - 6 | € 14.900 | On request | Enquire |
| Owner's Suite - 6 | € 20.120 | Available | Enquire |
Prices as of: 14.08.2026
Standard inclusions of the ship voyage
On board
- Full board in gourmet and À-la-carte restaurants
- Afternoon tea and pastries
- Open bar: water, soft drinks, wines, champagne, spirits, beers, coffee and tea
- Minibar in cabin, regularly refilled
- 24-hour cabin service
- All gratuities for crew and service staff
- Complimentary WiFi onboard (standard usage)
- Butler service (in higher suite categories on select ships)
- Zodiac excursions with experienced guides (on Expedition voyages)
- Expert lectures by scientists, marine biologists and historians
- Water sports equipment: kayaks, stand-up paddling, snorkelling gear (subject to weather and region)
Not included
- Flights
- Travel to/from ship (transfers, pre- or post-programmes)
- Some special shore excursions
- Spa treatments
Frequently asked questions
How do I book this voyage?
Send us a non-binding enquiry via the form on this page. Our team replies personally within 24 hours with availability, cabin options and a tailored offer. No enquiry fee, no upfront payment.
What is included in the price?
The base price per person (twin cabin) includes the cabin in your chosen category, full board, all port fees and the onboard programme. Flights and transfers are quoted separately. 12 nights from EUR 6.340 p.p. With Ponant, selected wines and beverages at meals are included.
How many guests sail on the Le Bougainville?
A maximum of 184 guests - extraordinarily intimate compared to standard cruise ships. The high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personal attention throughout the voyage.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes - all itineraries are subject to weather, port availability and the captain's decisions. This is part of the charm of small-ship cruising: flexibility allows for unexpected discoveries.
Are there specials for early bookers or solo travellers?
Yes. Early bookers receive discounts for timely booking. Solo travellers often benefit from a reduced or waived single supplement. Simply mention your preferences in the enquiry.
Is my booking protected?
Yes. As a German tour operator, ivent-sailing provides a travel protection certificate (Reisesicherungsschein) under German law. Your payment is fully insured.
What about flights and transfers?
We arrange flights and transfers on request as part of your personal offer. This allows us to find the best connections for your specific departure date and home airport.
Are there shore excursions?
Yes. All cruise lines offer shore excursions - from guided cultural tours to nature experiences. The concepts vary by fleet. We are happy to provide details on available excursions for your chosen voyage.
What water sports and activities are available?
Depending on the ship and route: snorkelling, kayaking, stand-up paddling, diving, and Zodiac landings (on expedition voyages). Many ships have a marina platform for direct access to the water. We will be happy to tell you exactly what is available on your voyage.
Non-binding enquiry
Your enquiry reaches a person familiar with this voyage and ship.
