Latest news with #LeBellot
West Australian
28-05-2025
- West Australian
Ponant releases rare opportunity to explore Baja California, Mexico marine wilderness
The coastline off Baja California in Mexico has been referred to as 'the world's largest aquarium'. And wildlife seekers will have a priceless opportunity to get up close with ocean giants on a rare voyage with Ponant Explorations. Setting sail in early 2027, the adventure has been three years in the making after an extensive reconnaissance mission undertaken by Ponant's research team. The Baja California peninsula lies between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez and is maritime sanctuary for many species of whales, dolphins, rays and sea lions, who seek refuge in the sheltered wilderness to reproduce in the northern hemisphere winter. Ponant's team of expert naturalists will guide guests on an 11-day exploration aboard luxury cruise ship Le Bellot, navigating the unspoilt coastline, marvelling over the wildlife, hiking through majestic canyons and visiting small Mexican towns including charming Loreto. The itinerary has been co-developed with local communities and conservation stewards, which Ponant's Jose Sarica, who directed the research and development scouting mission, says aligns with the operator's ethos of responsible tourism. 'Creating an itinerary in Baja California was a challenge for me,' Sarica says. 'We have a huge responsibility to share this exceptional environment, to pass it on to future generations, and to show that we are worthy of the trust placed in us by the people who live there. 'What I experienced there compares to no other experience: it's the powerful feeling of being truly alive, connected to nature, and that's what our guests will discover.' + Exploration in the Heart of Baja California departs from Cabo San Lucas on three dates in 2027: January 31, February 20 and March 2. + Packages start at $10,950 per person. Price is subject to change without notice at any time. + For more information, visit
Yahoo
06-05-2025
- Yahoo
French cruise ship moored off coast of Isle of Wight
French cruise ship moored off coast of Isle of Wight Le Bellot, off the Isle of Wight. (Image: Pamela Parker.) French cruise ship Le Bellot has been spotted off the coast of the Isle of Wight. Belonging to Ponant, the vessel, part of the the firm's Explorers series, is currently moored off Cowes. Le Bellot is named after French naval officer and Arctic explorer, Joseph Rene Bellot. Read more: Famous French cruise ship Le Bellot off Isle of Wight The cruise ship, taken from onboard the Red Jet (Image: Contributed) Accommodating up to 184 guests, the yacht has 92 staterooms and suites, a spa and two restaurants. It also boasts a crew of 118. According to the ship has sailed from the port of Dover. Le Bellot was also pictured off the Island in 2023.
Yahoo
11-02-2025
- Yahoo
A different way to travel: What it's like to sail Panama, Costa Rica
Everyone gathered on deck, not minding the hot Panamanian sun beating down, to experience a bucket list item: crossing the Panama Canal. We started the day in the Atlantic Ocean and were in the Pacific Ocean by dinnertime. The night before, passengers aboard my ship, Le Bellot, were buzzing about the long-awaited event – the excitement was palpable. I knew before embarking on the January sailing of the Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America – a cruise offering by the French small-ship cruise operator Ponant in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys – that transiting through what's considered one of the world's most impressive engineering feats would be worthwhile. However, my experience on the trip gave me a deeper understanding of why it rightfully captured everyone's attention. The day prior, I attended a lecture by former diplomat and U.S. Navy officer Hugh Neighbor, one of two Smithsonian Journeys experts on my trip, about the history and significance of the canal. During an onshore excursion at the Biomuseo in Panama City, I learned why the country's unique geographical shape as an isthmus made it the perfect place to connect two oceans. This intimate yacht-style cruise immersed in the vibrancy of Panama and Costa Rica with an emphasis on responsible tourism – a cornerstone of the five-year-old partnership between Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution. It's the perfect antidote for cruisers looking to escape the crowds and massive ships without giving up relaxation or a beautiful tropical setting. These types of expedition and exploration cruises are quickly rising in popularity, with a 71% increase in passengers between 2019 and 2023, according to the Cruise Lines International Association. "We hope people come back from these trips having learned more than they could (have) imagined about the destination and the people in the destination … that's our No. 1 goal," said Walter Littlejohn, Smithsonian Journeys' senior vice president. 'What is our limit?': How cruise ships are impacting Alaska's environment If you're looking at warm-weather destinations, Panama and Costa Rica may fly under your radar compared to the ever-popular Caribbean. Both Central American countries are home to incredible biodiversity, offering both wild jungles and stunning beaches. When bird-watching in Quepos, Costa Rica, with a family-run tour company, I quickly saw scarlet macaws and toucans before we even reached the site. They're also easily accessible from the U.S., with flights from Panama and Costa Rica typically ranging from three to six hours. The six-day voyage on Le Bellot balanced education with leisure. Some nights were a caviar tasting in the main lounge and drinks in the Blue Eye lounge, a bar situated a few meters below sea level with portholes to watch marine life pass by. Onshore excursions consisted of docking in a remote, undeveloped region of Darien National Park to meet the Indigenous Embera people and wandering Panama Viejo – archaeological ruins from 1519 and a World UNESCO Heritage Site. It wasn't just about learning all the time. We also had a beach and snorkeling day, enjoying the pristine warm waters at Cayos Holandeses, an island in the San Blas archipelago – Panama's version of Hawaii. On this day, we were the only ship docked, allowing us to enjoy the island without dealing with any crowds or feeling like we were overwhelming the community. Throughout the trip were lectures by Neighbor and Dr. Oris Sanjur – the other expert onboard who is the deputy director of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) in Panama and a Panamanian herself – on topics such as marine conservation research and Costa Rican culture. "This expands horizons and allows people to get to know science from a different perspective, and they're engaged to become share with others," said Sanjur. Not only did the experts provide lectures, but guests could reserve dinner with them or have chat with them in the lounge. "You can go by yourself, for example, to some of these destinations, but you may not understand the backstory, the history," said Littlejohn, who added that every Smithsonian Journeys trip has at least one expert who went through an intensive vetting process. "All of these folks have a level of insight into these destinations that an average guide simply cannot deliver." Smithsonian Journeys also infuses its longstanding relationships with research organizations worldwide into its Ponant cruises. One day, I toured STRI to learn more about its scientific work, like protecting whales from ships entering the canal, and spotted several sloths and iguanas on property. The Panama and Costa Rica cruise starts at $6,420 per person for a double occupancy room, with excursions, food, and most drinks included in the cost. Close up and personal with nature: What to expect from visiting the Galapagos All Smithsonian Journeys' trips are deeply rooted in sustainability and small group experiences, and its cruises with Ponant are no different. The ships are small – mine held up to 184 passengers – and focus on minimizing its impact, from how the ship runs to the places we visited. "Wherever we do go, we have a smaller footprint, smaller presence in the destination so it allows the destination to retain its character in a more meaningful way, protect its environment in a more meaningful way," Littlejohn said. Ponant's entire fleet holds the CLEANSHIP certification, recognizing a commitment to low environmental impact through the use of cleaner diesel and strict waste traceability measures. Set to launch this year, the company's 14th ship will sail entirely off biofuel and wind and water propulsion. Next year, the two travel entities will have 36 sailings together – including more expedition-style cruises – from the popular Antarctica and Greek islands, along with some new destinations like Madagascar and the Seychelles and Indonesia. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why travelers should try this green cruise to Panama and Costa Rica
USA Today
10-02-2025
- USA Today
A different way to travel: What it's like to sail Panama, Costa Rica
A different way to travel: What it's like to sail Panama, Costa Rica Show Caption Hide Caption How cruise tourism could help and hurt Alaska's environment Although Alaskans rely on revenue tourism cruise ships bring in, some locals are raising concerns on the impact of tourism on Alaska's environment. A Panama Canal cruise offers travelers a chance to experience one of the world's most impressive engineering feats while enjoying the natural beauty of Central America. The Smithsonian Journeys and Le Ponant partnership provides travelers with small-ship cruises that prioritize responsible tourism and immersive cultural experiences. Expert-led excursions and lectures enhance the cruise experience, offering insights into the history, culture, and biodiversity of Panama and Costa Rica. Everyone gathered on deck, not minding the hot Panamanian sun beating down, to experience a bucket list item: crossing the Panama Canal. We started the day in the Atlantic Ocean and were in the Pacific Ocean by dinnertime. The night before, passengers aboard my ship, Le Bellot, were buzzing about the long-awaited event – the excitement was palpable. I knew before embarking on the January sailing of the Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America – a cruise offering by the French small-ship cruise operator Le Ponant in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys – that transiting through what's considered one of the world's most impressive engineering feats would be worthwhile. However, my experience on the trip gave me a deeper understanding of why it rightfully captured everyone's attention. The day prior, I attended a lecture by former diplomat and U.S. Navy officer Hugh Neighbor, one of two Smithsonian Journeys experts on my trip, about the history and significance of the canal. During an onshore excursion at the Biomuseo in Panama City, I learned why the country's unique geographical shape as an isthmus made it the perfect place to connect two oceans. This intimate yacht-style cruise immersed in the vibrancy of Panama and Costa Rica with an emphasis on responsible tourism – a cornerstone of the five-year-old partnership between Le Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution. It's the perfect antidote for cruisers looking to escape the crowds and massive ships without giving up relaxation or a beautiful tropical setting. These types of expedition and exploration cruises are quickly rising in popularity, with a 71% increase in passengers between 2019 and 2023, according to the Cruise Lines International Association. "We hope people come back from these trips having learned more than they could (have) imagined about the destination and the people in the destination … that's our No. 1 goal," said Walter Littlejohn, Smithsonian Journeys' senior vice president of travel. 'What is our limit?': How cruise ships are impacting Alaska's environment Why Panama and Costa Rica? If you're looking at warm-weather destinations, Panama and Costa Rica may fly under your radar compared to the ever-popular Caribbean. Both Central American countries are home to incredible biodiversity, offering both wild jungles and stunning beaches. When bird-watching in Quepos, Costa Rica, with a family-run tour company, I quickly saw scarlet macaws and toucans before we even reached the site. They're also easily accessible from the U.S., with flights from Panama and Costa Rica typically ranging from three to six hours. What is it like to cruise with Ponant and Smithsonian Journeys? The six-day voyage on Le Bellot balanced education with leisure. Some nights were a caviar tasting in the main lounge and drinks in the Blue Eye lounge, a bar situated a few meters below sea level with portholes to watch marine life pass by. Onshore excursions consisted of docking in a remote, undeveloped region of Darien National Park to meet the Indigenous Embera people and wandering Panama Viejo – archaeological ruins from 1519 and a World UNESCO Heritage Site. It wasn't just about learning all the time. We also had a beach and snorkeling day, enjoying the pristine warm waters at Cayos Holandeses, an island in the San Blas archipelago – Panama's version of Hawaii. On this day, we were the only ship docked, allowing us to enjoy the island without dealing with any crowds or feeling like we were overwhelming the community. Throughout the trip were lectures by Neighbor and Dr. Oris Sanjur – the other expert onboard who is the deputy director of the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI) in Panama and a Panamanian herself – on topics such as marine conservation research and Costa Rican culture. "This expands horizons and allows people to get to know science from a different perspective, and they're engaged to become share with others," said Sanjur. Not only did the experts provide lectures, but guests could reserve dinner with them or have chat with them in the lounge. "You can go by yourself, for example, to some of these destinations, but you may not understand the backstory, the history," said Littlejohn, who added that every Smithsonian Journeys trip has at least one expert who went through an intensive vetting process. "All of these folks have a level of insight into these destinations that an average guide simply cannot deliver." Smithsonian Journeys also infuses its longstanding relationships with research organizations worldwide into its Ponant cruises. One day, I toured STRI to learn more about its scientific work, like protecting whales from ships entering the canal, and spotted several sloths and iguanas on property. The Panama and Costa Rica cruise starts at $6,420 per person for a double occupancy room, with excursions, food, and most drinks included in the cost. Close up and personal with nature: What to expect from visiting the Galapagos A greener way to cruise All Smithsonian Journeys' trips are deeply rooted in sustainability and small group experiences, and its cruises with Ponant are no different. The ships are small – mine held up to 184 passengers – and focus on minimizing its impact, from how the ship runs to the places we visited. "Wherever we do go, we have a smaller footprint, smaller presence in the destination so it allows the destination to retain its character in a more meaningful way, protect its environment in a more meaningful way," Littlejohn said. Ponant's entire fleet holds the CLEANSHIP certification, recognizing a commitment to low environmental impact through the use of cleaner diesel and strict waste traceability measures. Set to launch this year, the company's 14th ship will sail entirely off biofuel and wind and water propulsion. Next year, the two travel entities will have 36 sailings together – including more expedition-style cruises – from the popular Antarctica and Greek islands, along with some new destinations like Madagascar and the Seychelles and Indonesia.
