Fisherman with small colorful wood boat in turquoise water along white-sand beach with palm trees on a sunny Caribbean day.
White branch coral sits atop purple rock near white-sand sea floor seen on The Caribbean Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant cruise.
View from upper deck of large white sailboat in Caribbean with sails furled & 2 Zodiac boats sitting on teak deck near bow
Big white sailboat with 5 sails unfurled sails through bright blue water on The Caribbean Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant cruise.
Bright red tropical flower with dark stem & green leaves opens to the sun on The Caribbean Under Sail Aboard Le Ponant cruise.
View Photos
Central America Caribbean Cruise

History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels

Come aboard 32-guest Le Ponant to sail among dancing waves and explore little-known places and long beaches lined with elegant palm trees. For 8 unforgettable days, spend your time contemplating and exploring aboard an emblematic yacht.

As the ship moves away from the shores of Guadeloupe, sail under wind power towards Les Saintes Bay with Fort Napoleon crowning the summit of the island. Next enter Antigua & Barbuda’s Falmouth Harbor, where traces of Admiral Nelson may be found. Sail on to Nevis’s Charlestown to visit the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, as well as St John’s Fig Tree Church, which houses the original marriage certificate of Lord Horatio Nelson and Fanny Nisbet. Nevis also has a very beautiful botanical garden.

Next reach Barbuda, where you will be able to relax on beaches of white and pink sand bathing in crystal-clear water and observe the many seabirds, particularly the magnificent frigatebirds. Reach Saint Barthélemy, a small island in the Tropics offering an exceptional and windswept stretch of water. Then arrive in the Anguilla archipelago, a little-known jewel. The two small uninhabited islands of Prickly Pear Cays, separated by a narrow channel and surrounded by rocky protrusions, are heaven for divers and birds. The island is also home to Lesser Antillean iguanas. After this odyssey return to terra firma in Philipsburg.

Sail aboard the luxury 32-guest Le Ponant. This Relais & Chateaux-affiliated motorsailer offers the feel of a private yacht, with more crew members than guests, room service, haute cuisine and refined French service. With three decks of open-air spaces, a swim platform and seawater pool for swim stops, and plenty of glass, this ship invites her guests to revel in the warm breezes and glittering waters through which she sails.

Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Caribbean cruises and Caribbean trips.



Itinerary

Northbound History & Culture Visiting Caribbean Jewels Itinerary

The northbound History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels cruise operates from Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe, to Philipsburg, Saint-Martin. Along the way, explore a kaleidoscope of must-see islands and lesser-known gems.

Route map of northbound History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels cruise from Point-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe to Philipsburg, Saint-Martin.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe

At the crossroads of cultures, where European influence mingles with the richness of the Caribbean and the diversity of indigenous traditions, Pointe-à-Pitre promises a unique experience. Here, nestled on the southern coast of the island of Grande-Terre in Guadeloupe, in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, you will fall in love with the heavenly landscapes that reveal themselves to you, including white-sand beaches, verdant mountains and lush tropical forests. Along the bustling streets of the city, you will discover Creole authenticity through the colorful markets, the traditional wooden houses and the warm hospitality of the locals.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Les Saintes

During the feast of All Saints in 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered this archipelago of nine islands that he named “The Saints.” Today, only two of them are inhabited. Terre de Haut, in the east, is dominated by the Morne Mire hill; at the summit stands Fort Napoleon, paying homage to the islands’ history. In the heart of the botanical garden, shared by iguanas and cacti, there is an exceptional view of the Baie des Saintes, one of the most beautiful in the world. The long shady beach of Pompierre, where it is forbidden to drop anchor, is a peaceful place for a swim, while Pain de Sucre Beach offers wonderful opportunities for snorkeling. On the island, don’t forget to taste the local specialty, the “tourment d’amour,” a cake made with coconut.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Falmouth Bay

Located to the south of the island of Antigua and Barbuda, Falmouth Bay is home to a marina that is the perfect starting point for visiting Nelson’s Dockyard, where the former naval base and former home of the British Admiral Horatio Nelson can be found. This village was built in 1725 to act as a base for the squadrons of ships that used to patrol the waters of the West Indies to ensure British naval supremacy. It is the last naval dockyard of the Georgian period to be so well preserved and still active. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes a collection of buildings and port facilities surrounded by a fortified compound.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Barbuda

During your port of call in Barbuda, an island influenced by British culture in the north of the Lesser Antilles, you’ll discover idyllic beaches of white, powder-like sand bathed by turquoise waters of striking intensity. The very British colonial atmosphere of English Harbor, a former Royal Navy base, mixes with creole culture in a happy union. This Eden, which has managed to stay calm and intimate, is brimming with very wild fauna and flora. Arts and crafts are present in the markets and shops, where you’ll find wooden statuettes, printed fabrics and very good rum produced in the island’s distilleries.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Charlestown, Nevis

Opposite Saint-Christopher island, Nevis will win you over by its more easy-going rhythm than its neighbor, and by its tranquil atmosphere. Go ahead and explore the rich history of this island, admire its Georgian architecture in Charlestown and smell the wonderful scent of the tropical flowers in Nevis’s botanical garden. The sumptuous landscapes that adorn this volcanic island offer you pleasant hiking opportunities at the foot of Nevis peak. And to cool down, you’ll enjoy taking a dive into the turquoise waters that are so characteristic of the Caribbean.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Gustavia

Lovers of this island call it Saint-Barth. This French island in the Lesser Antilles was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. Ever since, this tiny mountainous volcanic gem with its unspoiled nature has been enchanting visitors. You will enjoy the beauty of its large paradisiacal beaches, plus the charm and refinement of its old wooden houses and its sumptuous colonial manors. As you saunter through the rues de Gustavia or Saint-Jean you’ll come across jewelers, top fashion boutiques and fine restaurants, but there is also a simplicity that money can’t buy.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Prickley Pear Cays

Located 5 miles north of Anguilla, the twin islands of Prickly Pear East and West are separated by a narrow channel. Prickly Pear East consists of a huge white sandy beach and rocky outcrops offering excellent snorkelling possibilities. Behind the main beach, there is a small pool where the black-necked stilt comes to feed. The harder-to-access Prickly Pear West has a small beach of low limestone cliffs dotted with bushes. The waters surrounding the cays of Prickly Pear are protected by the Anguilla Marine Park. Green and Hawksbill sea turtles, endangered species, nest on these beaches. The island is also home to an indigenous iguana population as well as a colony of Anguilla laughing gulls. As you sail around Prickly Pear West, it will be easy to observe many birds along the cliffs, including red-billed tropicbirds, brown noddies, brown boobies and little terns. This is also where the only colony of brown pelicans nesting in Anguilla can be found: it is a species of regional importance.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Disembark Philipsburg, Saint-Martin

The capital of the Dutch part of Saint-Martin, in the south of the island, Philipsburg is bordered by a 1.9-mile (3km) long expanse of sand. Following a stroll along Front Street and Back Street, the lively streets edged with houses with colorful facades, take a break on a lounger opposite the calm and turquoise sea of Great Bay. Sint Maarten Museum will immerse you in the past of the Arawaks, an indigenous people of the West Indies. You will also be able to admire the view from Fort Amsterdam, the first fort constructed by the Dutch in the 17th century.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations; all meals while on board the ship; open bar including beer, wine and spirits including Veuve Clicquot champagne (only on Le Commandant Charcot and Le Ponant); evening entertainment and events; daily stocked minibar; room service (except at night on Le Ponant); bilingual French/English crew members; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise (unless in Owner’s suite aboard Le Ponant); visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The northbound History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels cruise begins in Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe (PTP), and ends in Philipsburg, Saint-Martin (SXM). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Optional activities on your northbound History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels cruise include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising, swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and added-cost diving (certified divers carrying a medical certificate less than 1 year old and their up-to-date dive book only). Optional added-cost excursions are available on certain days and may be pre-booked from two months to one week prior to departure, or booked on board; these excursions may require a minimum group size. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of possible onboard activities keep guests engaged, including themed evenings, films screened on the ship’s sails, spa treatments, fitness sessions with the onboard wellness coach and yoga classes on the Sun Deck.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 1 year and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Southbound History & Culture Visiting Caribbean Jewels Itinerary

The southbound History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels cruise operates from Marigot, Saint-Martin, to Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe. Along the way, explore a kaleidoscope of must-see islands and lesser-known gems.

Route map of southbound History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels cruise from Marigot, Saint-Martin to Point-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe.
Read More
Day 1
Embark Marigot, Saint-Martin

Located on the west coast of the French side of Saint Martin, an island in the north-east of the Caribbean Sea, Marigot has stunning discoveries in store for you. Its streets are home to old Creole huts, the traditional dwellings in the 19th century, as well as a host of luxury boutiques and artist studios. Overlooking Marigot Bay and facing Anguilla, Fort Louis is an ideal spot from which to admire the Simpson Bay Lagoon and the surrounding small, lush mountains. For those who enjoy walking, taking a lovely stroll from the Fort Louis marina via the market, is an opportunity to fully enjoy the easy way of life in this charming, picturesque town.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

dinner

Read More
Day 2
Prickley Pear Cays

Located 5 miles north of Anguilla, the twin islands of Prickly Pear East and West are separated by a narrow channel. Prickly Pear East consists of a huge white sandy beach and rocky outcrops offering excellent snorkelling possibilities. Behind the main beach, there is a small pool where the black-necked stilt comes to feed. The harder-to-access Prickly Pear West has a small beach of low limestone cliffs dotted with bushes. The waters surrounding the cays of Prickly Pear are protected by the Anguilla Marine Park. Green and Hawksbill sea turtles, endangered species, nest on these beaches. The island is also home to an indigenous iguana population as well as a colony of Anguilla laughing gulls. As you sail around Prickly Pear West, it will be easy to observe many birds along the cliffs, including red-billed tropicbirds, brown noddies, brown boobies and little terns. This is also where the only colony of brown pelicans nesting in Anguilla can be found: it is a species of regional importance.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 3
Gustavia

Lovers of this island call it Saint-Barth. This French island in the Lesser Antilles was discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493. Ever since, this tiny mountainous volcanic gem with its unspoiled nature has been enchanting visitors. You will enjoy the beauty of its large paradisiacal beaches, plus the charm and refinement of its old wooden houses and its sumptuous colonial manors. As you saunter through the rues de Gustavia or Saint-Jean you’ll come across jewelers, top fashion boutiques and fine restaurants, but there is also a simplicity that money can’t buy.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 4
Charlestown, Nevis

Opposite Saint-Christopher island, Nevis will win you over by its more easy-going rhythm than its neighbor, and by its tranquil atmosphere. Go ahead and explore the rich history of this island, admire its Georgian architecture in Charlestown and smell the wonderful scent of the tropical flowers in Nevis’s botanical garden. The sumptuous landscapes that adorn this volcanic island offer you pleasant hiking opportunities at the foot of Nevis peak. And to cool down, you’ll enjoy taking a dive into the turquoise waters that are so characteristic of the Caribbean.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 5
Falmouth Bay

Located to the south of the island of Antigua and Barbuda, Falmouth Bay is home to a marina that is the perfect starting point for visiting Nelson’s Dockyard, where the former naval base and former home of the British Admiral Horatio Nelson can be found. This village was built in 1725 to act as a base for the squadrons of ships that used to patrol the waters of the West Indies to ensure British naval supremacy. It is the last naval dockyard of the Georgian period to be so well preserved and still active. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes a collection of buildings and port facilities surrounded by a fortified compound.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 6
Barbuda

During your port of call in Barbuda, an island influenced by British culture in the north of the Lesser Antilles, you’ll discover idyllic beaches of white, powder-like sand bathed by turquoise waters of striking intensity. The very British colonial atmosphere of English Harbor, a former Royal Navy base, mixes with creole culture in a happy union. This Eden, which has managed to stay calm and intimate, is brimming with very wild fauna and flora. Arts and crafts are present in the markets and shops, where you’ll find wooden statuettes, printed fabrics and very good rum produced in the island’s distilleries.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 7
Les Saintes

During the feast of All Saints in 1493, Christopher Columbus discovered this archipelago of nine islands that he named “The Saints.” Today, only two of them are inhabited. Terre de Haut, in the east, is dominated by the Morne Mire hill; at the summit stands Fort Napoleon, paying homage to the islands’ history. In the heart of the botanical garden, shared by iguanas and cacti, there is an exceptional view of the Baie des Saintes, one of the most beautiful in the world. The long shady beach of Pompierre, where it is forbidden to drop anchor, is a peaceful place for a swim, while Pain de Sucre Beach offers wonderful opportunities for snorkeling. On the island, don’t forget to taste the local specialty, the “tourment d’amour,” a cake made with coconut.

Accommodations

Le Ponant

Meals

breakfast, lunch, dinner

Read More
Day 8
Disembark Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe

At the crossroads of cultures, where European influence mingles with the richness of the Caribbean and the diversity of indigenous traditions, Pointe-à-Pitre promises a unique experience. Here, nestled on the southern coast of the island of Grande-Terre in Guadeloupe, in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, you will fall in love with the heavenly landscapes that reveal themselves to you, including white-sand beaches, verdant mountains and lush tropical forests. Along the bustling streets of the city, you will discover Creole authenticity through the colorful markets, the traditional wooden houses and the warm hospitality of the locals.

Accommodations

n/a

Meals

breakfast

Read More
Details
Inclusions, Terms & Notes

Included

Accommodations; all meals while on board the ship; open bar including beer, wine and spirits including Veuve Clicquot champagne (only on Le Commandant Charcot and Le Ponant); evening entertainment and events; daily stocked minibar; room service (except at night on Le Ponant); bilingual French/English crew members; park entry fees into protected areas; complimentary unlimited Wifi on board; port fees and taxes (except for child passengers–see Families & Children); gratuities.

Exclusions

Optional add-on excursions or packages; ground services before or after the cruise (unless in Owner’s suite aboard Le Ponant); visa expenses; possible immigration reciprocity taxes; luggage handling; beverages beyond those in Inclusions; laundry, hair salon, spa treatments, onboard medical consultations and other personal charges; cancellation, luggage, assistance, repatriation, medical and insurance of any kind.

Payment & Cancellation

In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% of the total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations beyond 14 days after booking confirmation are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
365 days or more – $250
364 to 211 days – 10% of total trip cost
210 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost

Terms & Conditions

This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.

Arrival & Departure

The northbound History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels cruise begins in Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe (PTP), and ends in Philipsburg, Saint-Martin (SXM). We highly recommend arriving one day prior to your trip start date in case of any flight delay, cancellation or lost luggage issues. Recommended flight arrival and departure times are specific to each voyage; consult your Adventure Specialist for guidelines relating to your departure. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.

Activities

Optional activities on your northbound History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels cruise include practicing photography, Zodiac cruising, swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and added-cost diving (certified divers carrying a medical certificate less than 1 year old and their up-to-date dive book only). Optional added-cost excursions are available on certain days and may be pre-booked from two months to one week prior to departure, or booked on board; these excursions may require a minimum group size. In addition to these off-ship excursions, a multitude of possible onboard activities keep guests engaged, including themed evenings, films screened on the ship’s sails, spa treatments, fitness sessions with the onboard wellness coach and yoga classes on the Sun Deck.

Room Configuration

Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. This supplement may vary depending on cabin category and remaining capacity per departure. A willing-to-share program is not available. Triple and quadruple rates may be available in select cabin categories; contact AdventureSmith for details.

Families & Children

Children 1 year and older at time of travel are welcomed on this cruise. Children under 18 years old at time of travel may receive special discounts when sharing a cabin with two full-fare adults. A child sharing a cabin with a single adult is considered to be a paying adult. Contact AdventureSmith for details.

Travel Insurance

A medical form for all travelers is required for every departure. Travelers are also highly encouraged to have full and adequate travel insurance covering the risks of cancellation, assistance being required, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, damages to and loss of baggage, and medical expenses. In addition, we highly recommend our travelers protect their investment with travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and other benefits. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. Coverage for a pre-existing medical condition is also available if you purchase the Travel Select plan within 15 days of the initial trip payment; refer to plan details. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.

Itinerary Notes

Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.

Rates & Dates

Cruise Rates & Dates

Rates are variable per remaining availability and are subject to change.

Jan 25 - Feb 01, 2025
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $8710USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Feb 22 - Mar 01, 2025
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $8200USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Mar 08 - Mar 15, 2025
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $8200USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Mar 22 - Mar 29, 2025
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $7690USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Apr 05 - Apr 12, 2025
Le Ponant • 8 days
From $8200USD
Per Person
Read More
Read More
Accommodation

Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary

Motorsailer
Le Ponant

This Relais & Chateaux ship with a crew of 33 treats her 32 guests to authentic and luxurious experiences with refined French touches. Come aboard for 3 decks of open-air spaces, upscale cuisine, onboard activity gear and the feel of a private yacht.

Book with the confidence that comes from experience.

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Extend Your Trip

Additional Travel Options Before or After Your Cruise

Add to Wishlist
7 - 10 Day Cruise
Belize Catamaran Charter Cruise

Experience the best of Belize in a customized and exclusive way on your own Belize charter cruise. Choose from a fleet of private, 6- to 10-guest catamarans, each equipped with a captain, gourmet chef and activity gear including options for fishing and diving.

From $13650USD
Year Round
Add to Wishlist
8 - 8 Day Cruise
Costa Rica & The Panama Canal

Explore Costa Rica and Panama aboard the 100-guest National Geographic Quest. Transit the legendary Panama Canal and visit Barro Colorado with Smithsonian scientists and expert National Geographic guides. Hike, kayak, swim and snorkel.

Special Offer
From $7173USD
Jan Feb Mar Nov Dec
Add to Wishlist
9 Day Land Tour
Costa Rica Explorer

The Pacuare River, Arenal Volcano and the beautiful beaches of the Pacific, combine in this Costa Rica land tour that includes river rafting, guided hikes, hot springs, hanging bridges, zip lining, plus a free day to explore tropical Manuel Antonio National Park.

From $5265USD
Year Round
More to Explore

Trips You Might Also Like

Exit Created with Sketch.

History & Culture: Visiting Caribbean Jewels

test message
View Wishlist