Ponant, a luxury expedition cruise company, has announced its winter 2024-25 season itineraries, which will take travelers to Lapland, the Gulf of Bothnia, and the Baltic Sea. These exclusive voyages will offer extraordinary experiences, including reindeer-pulled sleigh rides, ice-fishing, Scandinavian Christmas markets, and the opportunity to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
One of the most exciting new itineraries is the 12-day “From the Northern Lights to the Polar Light” voyage. This expedition will navigate along Norway’s jagged coastlines, leading guests to the ice-covered reliefs of Spitsbergen in search of the awe-inspiring Northern Lights. During this journey, travelers will have the chance to meet and learn about the Sami people, one of the last European Indigenous communities. As they capture the dancing night skies through their camera lenses, guests will also receive valuable insights and photography tips from renowned British Photo Ambassador, Ian Dawson.
Another remarkable itinerary is the 10-day “Polar Lights: From North Cape to the Lofoten Islands” voyage. Starting in Lakselv, this journey takes passengers all the way up to the North Cape, which is the northernmost point of Europe. The itinerary will encompass breathtaking fjords, dolomite cliffs, charming fishing villages, and stunning snow-covered peaks. Along the way, guests will have the opportunity to spot reindeer and seabirds in their natural habitats. Just like the previous itinerary, this voyage will feature Ian Dawson as a VIP guest, providing photography expertise and guidance.
For those who desire a holiday-themed adventure, the 10-day “Scandinavian Wonderland & Christmas Markets” itinerary is the perfect choice. Travelers will visit picturesque cities along the Baltic Sea, including Stockholm, Gotland, Gdansk, and Helsinki. The wintery scenery, draped in a blanket of snow, creates a magical atmosphere enhanced by the scents of mulled wine, cinnamon, and gingerbread wafting through the enchanting Christmas markets. This itinerary also offers opportunities to marvel at the region’s Gothic and Baroque architecture, attend a private concert at the Polish Baltic F. Chopin Philharmonic, and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Riga’s old town.
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In collaboration with musician Renaud Capuçon and radio presenter Alain Duault from Radio Classique, Ponant has designed the nine-day “Christmas Magic with Renaud Capuçon” itinerary. This immersive voyage will take guests through Scandinavian cities, little-known archipelagos, snow-capped peaks, and boreal forests in Finland, Stockholm, and the north of the Gulf of Bothnia. Activities on this journey may include dog sledding, ice fishing, Christmas market visits, and a trip to the Santa Claus Village of Rovaniemi.
Additionally, Ponant has organized the nine-day “Musical New Year in the Gulf of Bothnia” expedition, also in partnership with Radio Classique. This voyage will sail around the Gulf of Bothnia and the Scandinavian region, with stops at fairytale towns like Rauma, the church-town of Gammelstad, and the neoclassical city of Oulu. One of the highlights of this itinerary is an excursion to the High Coast archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as a journey among the skerries of the Stockholm archipelago, complete with an overnight stay opposite the bright lights of the old town.
Ponant’s winter 2024-25 itineraries promise unforgettable experiences in some of the most captivating destinations in northern Europe. From the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights to the festive atmosphere of Christmas markets, these voyages offer a unique combination of natural wonders, cultural encounters, and seasonal festivities. With the expertise of VIP guest Ian Dawson and the added touch of renowned musicians Renaud Capuçon and Alain Duault, these expeditions are set to be truly exceptional. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a winter adventure like no other with Ponant.
