Asia
The Hidden Treasures of the Philippines and Borneo
For the first time, Ponant invites you to discover the cultural and natural treasures of the Philippines, Brunei and Malaysia’s Sarawak region during a new odyssey along the South China Sea. From Vigan to Corregidor in Manila Bay , you will be immersed in a captivating history where the echoes of a colonial past and the battles of the Second World War still resonate. Then the floating cities of Borneo will reveal themselves one by one, showing the richness of their heritage through majestic mosques, centuries-old traditional houses, and colourful markets. Throughout this journey, you will also encounter a majestic natural world revealing the striking beauty of its wonders. Along these sun-drenched shores, the Puerto Princesa subterranean river, ancient and silent, flows through karst caves, the majestic cliffs of Coron overlook deep-turquoise lagoons, the idyllic beaches of the Balabac Islands stretch out under a gentle breeze, and abundant life flourishes in the lush mangroves of Brunei. A first voyage to this region , immersing you in the vibrant heart of these fascinating lands.
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Voyage Overview
For the first time, Ponant invites you to discover the cultural and natural treasures of the Philippines, Brunei and Malaysia’s Sarawak region during a new odyssey along the South China Sea. From Vigan to Corregidor in Manila Bay, you will be immersed in a captivating history where the echoes of a colonial past and the battles of the Second World War still resonate. Then the floating cities of Borneo will reveal themselves one by one, showing the richness of their heritage through majestic mosques, centuries-old traditional houses, and colourful markets. Throughout this journey, you will also encounter a majestic natural world revealing the striking beauty of its wonders. Along these sun-drenched shores, the Puerto Princesa subterranean river, ancient and silent, flows through karst caves, the majestic cliffs of Coron overlook deep-turquoise lagoons, the idyllic beaches of the Balabac Islands stretch out under a gentle breeze, and abundant life flourishes in the lush mangroves of Brunei. A first voyage to this region, immersing you in the vibrant heart of these fascinating lands.
Destinations
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Before the cruise
Day-by-day stops
Included
- Full board from arrival to departure day
- High-end gastronomy in all restaurants
- All beverages in restaurants, bars, and minibars. All drinks are included² (a selection of champagnes, wines and spirits, beers, cocktails, water, soft drinks, hot beverages)
- 24-hour room service
- Butler service for certain suites³
- Unlimited internet access onboard
- Evening events, shows, and other entertainment
- Access to the fitness area and hammam or sauna, depending on the ship
- All port and security charges
- Included activities may vary depending on the type of exploration:
- Timeless Voyages: One included excursion⁴ per person, per day, and per port, led by local guides (monument visits, local product tastings, etc.)
- Discovery Voyages: One included activity per person, per day, and per port, which may be either an included excursion⁴ led by local guides or an included activity supervised by naturalist guides
- Expedition Voyages: One included activity per person, per day, and per port, supervised by naturalist guides (hiking, Zodiac outings, etc.) Exclusive stopovers with limited or no infrastructure will be offered for self-exploration. Passengers will thus be free to explore the area and enjoy independent activities (beach swimming, shopping, dining, shows, etc.)
- Lectures by our naturalist guides or destination experts (excluding Sea Voyages)
- Non-motorized water sports (excluding diving), such as kayaking on the Le Commandant Charcot or stand-up paddleboarding depending on the ship, subject to weather and safety conditions, local authorizations, and the Captain's approval
- National park and protected area fees
- Accompaniment by a team of naturalist guides only on Expedition and Discovery cruises; on land or, depending on the destination, during Zodiac outings and/or landings
- Timeless Voyages: The itinerary may be modified depending on weather conditions, port authorizations, and applicable government regulations. The excursion program will be finalized closer to your cruise departure and made available on our website.
- Discovery Voyages: The itinerary may be modified depending on weather conditions, port authorizations, and applicable government regulations. Landings, activities, and wildlife encounters are provided for information purposes only and cannot be guaranteed. Activities and excursions mentioned are examples. Activities may change depending on weather conditions and navigation opportunities (see each activity’s description for more details). The excursion program will be finalized closer to your cruise departure and made available on our website.
- Expedition Voyages: The itinerary may be modified depending on weather conditions, port authorizations, and applicable government regulations. Landings, activities, and wildlife encounters are provided for information purposes only and cannot be guaranteed. Activities may change depending on weather conditions and navigation opportunities (see each activity’s description for more details).
- Le Paul Gauguin : The itinerary may be modified depending on weather conditions, port authorizations, and applicable government regulations. The excursion program will be finalized closer to your cruise departure and made available on our website.
Booking & Cancellation Policies
Children Policy
Children aged 6-11 eligible for discount when sharing with two full-fare adults. Baby equipment available on request. Kids club available on select voyages. Children: 6–17 years Child discount: 70%
Third Person Policy
Third adult in Deluxe Suite on sofa bed. Third person discount applies to adults and children. Maximum 3 persons per suite. Adult discount: 70% Child discount: 50%
Single Supplement
Default rate: 2× Single supplement of 2.0x applies to all staterooms and suites. PONANT Bonus program members may receive reduced supplement on select departures.
Cancellation Policy
210+ days before departure: 20% penalty 120–210 days before departure: 50% penalty 90–120 days before departure: 75% penalty 0–90 days before departure: 100% penalty Cancellation fees apply as per the schedule above. Travel insurance strongly recommended. Name change fee: $200 EUR
Wi-Fi & Communications
Complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi onboard all vessels.
Your booking is made with Gvoya — the terms shown above are the Gvoya platform terms applied to this voyage. Full details: Booking Terms·Cancellation Policy
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