Thursday, December 19, 2013

10 Days Aboard Ponant's Le Boreal



10 Days Aboard Ponant's Le Boreal 

We were ready for something different, and this new luxury expedition ship owned by Ponant, a French line, seemed just the thing. Averaging 200 guests, it meets our preferred size. Very contemporary in design, casual in dress, zodiacs on board for exotic island stops, and French food-what's not to love! Also for the American market, all inclusive of wines, cocktails, and gratuities. The staff is a mix of French, Mauritian and Indonesian. The guest mix on board this particular cruise was 140 French vs. 8 Americans! Yes, it was like French immersion school, and that is not for everyone. But the crew was very accommodating, and we were happy to  be part of this very Gallic experience. And in all fairness, we are told that in Europe it is more of a 40/60 split. Our suggestion, cruise with your own group of friends.

Perhaps the best reason to consider this vessel, other than the lovely staterooms, open bridge policy and scrumptious baked goods, are the remarkable destinations from Antarctica to the Arctic. Even the more traditional itineraries such as Colon to Lima, which we did, offered some unusual ports, such as a day swimming at one of the impossibly beautiful San Blas islands, and an unscheduled morning swim stop in the Las Perlas islands off the Pacific side of Panama. Having a young captain on board with a certain amount of authority to divert his vessel, was a pleasant change. In fact he referred to it often as our yacht! This is a cruise line to consider for the adventure and style it offers. And when you get home your French will be much improved!










The Ancient City of Petra

The Ancient City of Petra
Just like the Indiana Jones movie! Hidden from civilization for thousands of years, it is a wonderful sight!