Expedition cruises

Set sail along three stunning rivers, the Garonne, Dordogne, and Gironde, on one fascinatingly historical and invigorating journey. Explore the country's breathtaking backdrops, wines, and cultural treasures across the region in Bordeaux, Fort Médoc, Cadillac, Blaye, Libourne, and more. Wander through archaeological marvels, historic landmarks, and magnificent vineyards where you'll be treated to a sampling of quintessentially French experiences.

Embark on a scenic drive from Blaye to Bourg along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie and marvel at the sights of Blaye Fortress and Lansac Windmill along the way. Slow things down in Libourne and on your return to Bordeaux with multiple wine tastings, village tours, a farmers' market visit, and Bordeaux heritage walking tour. Join us on a showcase of the best Southwest France has to offer.

Premium Golf Package (select dates): Available on select summer 2026 departures, our Premium Golf Package includes 18-hole rounds at two different courses in the Bordeaux region and special inclusions designed with golfers in mind. Due to capacity restrictions, the golf package must be reserved in advance.

Experience dynamic Budapest and imperial Vienna. Marvel at ravishing scenery as your luxurious ship glides through the Wachau Valley, celebrated as one of the world's most beautiful landscapes, into Germany and past charming Bavarian villages. Exclusive treasures are plentiful on this delightful journey.

This enchanting voyage provides a variety of ways to enjoy captivating destinations as well as plenty of time to relax onboard as you sail from Budapest to Regensburg.

Jewish Heritage Program (select sailings; Budapest to Regensburg direction only): Our Jewish Heritage Program is the only one of its kind on the rivers and allows you to dive into Central Europe's enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues and more. Due to capacity restrictions, we recommend Jewish Heritage excursions be reserved in advance. Please note: due to site closures during Passover, the Jewish Heritage program will not operate on the following departure: Budapest to Regensburg: April 5. Tours that fall on Saturdays will not operate due to Shabbat, and some sites may be closed during other significant events, such as Passover.

The shimmering waters of the fabled Danube River flow for thousands of miles through the very heart of Europe, silent witness to centuries of artistic achievement and historical events. This perfectly composed journey provides an immersive cultural tasting menu of four equally beguiling countries—ideal for first-time river cruisers as well as seasoned travelers seeking to experience yet another dimension of these much-loved destinations.

Our locally-based destination experts will take you well beyond the "must-sees" of each region, offering fresh takes on classic sites, insider knowledge of delightful under-the-radar locales, and VIP access to places only a privileged few will ever experience—such as a private early-morning viewing of the acclaimed art collection of the Kunstkammer Vienna.

Generations Family Program (select sailings): Share the enchantment of this region with the special young people in your life. These cruises not only feature unique, fun-filled adventures for families to enjoy together, they're also packed with culturally and historically significant experiences designed to spark creativity and lifelong learning.

A cruise in partnership with Pinault Collection, featuring Emma Lavigne, Director General and Chief Curator of the Collection, from June 17 to 22, 2026, and artist Edith Dekyndt. On board, talks and lectures provide privileged insight into the curatorial vision of the Pinault Collection and Edith Dekyndt’s artistic approach, complemented by presentations dedicated to the current exhibitions at Palazzo Grassi and Punta della Dogana ahead of their discovery in Venice. The highlight of the journey: a private visit to Palazzo Grassi, followed by dinner in its atrium. The next day, an immersion in the Contemporary Art Biennale precedes a private visit to Punta della Dogana, accompanied by the Pinault Collection’s lecturer-guides.

Throughout your cruise, at each port of call, all guests will also have the opportunity to take part in an included excursion carefully selected by PONANT. On this cruise, discover Split and the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, from Trogir, stroll through Zadar, an ancient city with a fascinating history, or admire the dazzling mosaics of Ravenna, considered the most beautiful in the world. The range of experiences on offer promises a great time with lots of variety (for the full list of excursions, click on the Itinerary tab).

Your ship will leave Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site aptly called “the Pearl of the Adriatic”, and sail to Trogir. Renowned as the most beautiful medieval town in Dalmatia, the city, founded by the Greeks, is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fall under the spell of the beauty of its monuments, such as the Cathedral of Saint Lawrence, a masterpiece of Romanesque arts and one of the most beautiful in Croatia.

To the north, in contrast to the wild, confetti-like Kornati Islands, discover Zadar. On the monumental Land Gate, the winged lion that symbolises the City of the Doges still watches over passers-by as they make their way through the narrow streets of this ancient Roman walled city, now a vibrant mix of history and creativity.

Soon, you will reach Istria and the charming city of Rijeka. Nestling in the Kvarner Gulf, just a stone's throw from the famous Krk, known as “the Golden Island”, this port town offers a taste of the gentle Croatian way of life, with delicacies and strolls between the sea and the mountains.

On the other side of the Adriatic, on the shores of Italy, the stunning Ravenna is revealed. Capital of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, the city of Emilia-Romagna recounts its age-old history between the Roman and Byzantine cultures through its incredible ancient mosaics.

As a grand finale, your voyage will draw an end in Venice the Serenissima and its lagoon. Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal and the palaces along the canals will be your last stops on an unforgettable cruise.