Christmas Cruise 
Mistral Stateroom
20% Ponant Bonus
150 ft²
2
- Last staterooms
- New
The many faces of Cape Verde
Mindelo - Mindelo
Dates:
23/12/2023
to
30/12/2023
Other available dates
days
nights on board
On the Cape Verde Islands, formed from volcanic lava and sculpted by the power of the Atlantic’s waves, you will experience the raw beauty of incomparable nature. There are of course the strains of morna coming from Mindelo. There is the history of a former Portuguese colony that still bears traces of its past and has a geographic situation that has meant many influences for this string of islands. Above all, though, Cape Verde represents an indefinable feeling of freedom. Carried by the wind, Le Ponant will take you into a unexpected world where the elements will imbue you with new emotions.
Soft music rises from Mindelo, the music of Cesária Évora, “the Barefoot Diva”, who is inextricably linked to her island and her town, where she remains revered. The pastel colours of the façades and the former colonial buildings dot the Cape Verdean towns and villages that you will discover from the sea. Aboard Le Ponant, you will enjoy the privilege of an intimate atmosphere in the hushed comfort of the ship. As your cruise unfolds, you will discover the historic city of São Filipe inexorably turned to the sea, on the island of Fogo, and you will explore Praia, the capital of Cape Verde with its diverse influences, planted with tamarind and silk trees. Wherever you go, you will be captivated by the markets with their bright colours and fragrance-filled stalls.
The sky and the sea, unspoiled nature and the Cape Verdean soul will sweep you away aboard Le Ponant. Everywhere you look, you will see surprising and larger-than-life landscapes. The highest island in the archipelago, Fogo, is like a painting featuring a palette of colours, at times emerald, at times grey, revealing old lava flows amidst lush vegetation. In São Nicolau, the steep hillsides soon rise on the horizon, while the deep valleys will welcome you to discover the dragon trees, these ancient trees with a majestic silhouette. Boa Vista offers another face of Cape Verde, with its dunes of fine sand stretching as far as the eye can see, revealing the cerulean blue of the Atlantic. And volcanos are everywhere here, watching over the landscape, their sharp contours unveiling the power of wild nature.
The changing winds will set the pace of your odyssey, freedom will surge up on the horizon, in the soft calm offered by the interior of PONANT’s emblematic yacht. If you look to the sky, you will perhaps glimpse some of the many bird species that can be found in this piece of land lost in the Atlantic Ocean. You are sure to be surprised by the variety of activities during your trip, from hiking the paths of the archipelago to lazing on the bridge of the ship or on a Cape Verdean beach, to cultural discoveries and the exploration of a fascinating heritage.
Ref : PO231223
Your itinerary
A cruise discovering Cape Verde, an archipelago featuring pristine wild nature, with a fascinating mix of cultural influences. On land and on sea, soak in the Cape Verdean spirit and charm, and enjoy...
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Your trip in detail
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Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE LYRIAL
07/11/2023 to the 22/11/2023
LE LYRIAL
01/10/2023 to the 08/10/2023
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
06/02/2024 to the 03/03/2024
LE BORÉAL
07/07/2024 to the 20/07/2024
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Dyptique Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- No lift, not suitable for people with reduced mobility
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire.
For women: simple dress, skirt or trousers, blouse, polo
For men: pleated trousers or chinos, sports jacket, shirt, polo
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- White or black and white outfit for a Theme evening.
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A cruise discovering Cape Verde, an archipelago featuring pristine wild nature, with a fascinating mix of cultural influences.
- On land and on sea, soak in the Cape Verdean spirit and charm, and enjoy exceptional moments such as the stunning sunsets aboard your ship.
- During this timeless interlude, you will be able to leisurely discover the beauties of this archipelago in the heart of the Atlantic, whether on hikes in nature, excursions into authentic villages or through moments of pure relaxation.
- A rich programme of included excursions.
- Enjoy the extraordinary experience of sailing aboard Le Ponant as though you were on your own private yacht.
- A limited-capacity yacht: a maximum of 32 passengers and as many crew members; a dedicated chef
- Sail on a ship propelled by the wind and enjoy the wonderful opportunities nature offers us to adjust the programme and navigate under sail whenever possible.
- As the wind carries you, you will savour shared moments of joy and live in the here and now, in an exceptional environment.
- Both on board and on shore, make the most of the presence of local guides who will share the secrets of this exceptional archipelago with you, through a series of 100% Cape Verde ports of call taking you off the beaten path.
Ports of Call & Excursions
23 December 2023 - Mindelo
Embarkation 23/12/2023 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 23/12/2023 at 23:59
Set on the shores of the Porto Grande bay on the north-west coast of São Vicente, Mindelo is considered to be Cape Verde's cultural capital. Here in singer Cesaria Evora's homeland, you can listen to real morna in the bars of the old town, where you can also sip the local grog, a Cape Verdian sugarcane spirit. A few streets from the elegant floating resort of Pont d'água you'll see the pastel-coloured houses and colonial buildings of the historical district. Other landmarks are the facades of the old Governor's Palace and the busy municipal market.
24 December 2023 - Mindelo to Santo Antao
Arrival 24/12/2023 early morning
Departure 24/12/2023 evening
From Mindelo, the cultural capital of Cape Verde and the hometown of the legendary Cesária Évora, you will be able to travel to the neighbouring island of Santo Antao. On the horizon, the island’s sharp contours, a result of volcanic activity in the region, rise out of the Atlantic Ocean. Long deemed impassable, Santo Antao has been partially tamed by man who successfully adapted to the mountain chain that crosses it, in particular by establishing terraced farming there. This unique form of agriculture gives the island an extraordinary beauty which blends in with its wild nature, at times lush, at times mineral. With its deep valleys and jagged peaks, the territory offers stunning panoramas that promise unforgettable memories.
25 December 2023 - São Nicolau
Arrival 25/12/2023 early morning
Departure 25/12/2023 evening
Located south-west of São Vicente, the island of São Nicolau is a dramatic sight with steep, richly forested mountains that reach their peak at ﾠMt Gordo. Near the summit, the islandﾒs attractive capital, Ribeira Brava, nestles in a deep green valley. Not far off, you can hike along the mountain paths of Fajã, where youﾒll see rare and extremely old dragon trees growing naturally on the high plateaux. Coastal landmarks include the Blue Hole, ﾠpeaceful Tarrafal beach and the picturesque fishing village of Preguiça.
26 December 2023 - Boa Vista
Arrival 26/12/2023 midday
Departure 26/12/2023 late afternoon
The third largest island in the Cape Verde archipelago, Boa Vista offers visitors stunning white-sand beaches and emerald water. Dubbed “the sand dune island”, it is particularly well-known for its wild, desert landscapes that are windswept all year round. Sand dunes, oases and arid plains form the landscape of this small stretch of land that is barely 30 km (20 miles) long. Make the most of your stop here by experiencing the joy of swimming amid abundant marine life.
27 December 2023 - Praia
Arrival 27/12/2023 early morning
Departure 27/12/2023 late evening
The capital of Cape Verde, Praia, is located on the southern tip of Santiago island. You can dally in the districts planted with Tamarind and Albizia trees. Above the harbour, the statue of Diogo Gomes pays homage to the man who discovered Cape Verde in 1460. A few streets away, in the old centre, the Ethnographic Museum presents the diversity of the archipelago’s cultural origins. Its historical building with transom windows is one of the city’s more unusual curiosities.
28 December 2023 - Maio
Arrival 28/12/2023 midday
Departure 28/12/2023 early evening
Discovered in 1460 in the month of May, as its Portuguese name indicates, Maio lies east of Santiago in the Cape Verde archipelago. At the southwestern end of the island, you will discover the city of Porto Inglês, also known as Vila do Maio, where the pastel houses nestle against rounded hillsides. This port city played a pivotal role in the export of salt by the English in the 17th century. Overlooking the city, the fortress built in the 18th century as protection against pirate attacks still bears traces of its turbulent past. The long beaches of white sand that edge the island are now an invitation to enjoy the peace and serenity.
29 December 2023 - Fogo
Arrival 29/12/2023 early morning
Departure 29/12/2023 early afternoon
Lying west of Praia, the volcanic island of Fogo is Cape Verde's highest landmark. The foothills of Pico de Fogo are ideal for hiking, with an immense caldera surrounding the active crater. Trails start at the little town of Chã das Caldeiras and you can see recent lava flows and older ones sprouting with new growth. Along the rocky coastline you'll come across picturesque Mosteiros and the historic town of São Filipe, where elegant colonial houses overlook the Atlantic.
30 December 2023 - Mindelo
Arrival 30/12/2023 early morning
Disembarkation 30/12/2023 at 08:00
Set on the shores of the Porto Grande bay on the north-west coast of São Vicente, Mindelo is considered to be Cape Verde's cultural capital. Here in singer Cesaria Evora's homeland, you can listen to real morna in the bars of the old town, where you can also sip the local grog, a Cape Verdian sugarcane spirit. A few streets from the elegant floating resort of Pont d'água you'll see the pastel-coloured houses and colonial buildings of the historical district. Other landmarks are the facades of the old Governor's Palace and the busy municipal market.
The snorkelling
Together with your guide, board your vehicle and, leaving Sal Rei, drive to the north of the island to Baia das Gatas, passing through the beautiful landscapes of the north of the island. Boa Vista is famous for its long white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.
Baia das Gatas, on the northeast coast of Boa Vista, has optimal natural conditions for coral growth and safe snorkeling. The term "Gatas" refers to the local name for the nurse shark (not dangerous for humans), which mates in these waters during the summer.
You will meet your dive instructor who will give you all the necessary information for your snorkeling trip and remind you of the safety instructions.
Once your equipment is set up, the marine world is yours.
The coral community of this bay is characterized by hermetically sealed hard coral species, which harbor a particular diversity of marine life.
Cape Verde is among the top ten places in the world for its coral biodiversity. Although there are no real coral reefs in the archipelago, there are many sites rich in coral communities.
The biodiversity and the quantity are such that you will often have the impression to be in a huge aquarium, totally surrounded by movement and colours, where each moment is unique and indescribable!
You will be amazed by the underwater life that is offered to you.
After this underwater trip, you will leave for one of the small villages further north, to a typical bar to quench your thirst. This break will be a refreshing pause before taking the road back to the ship.
-
There is very little walking. Guests must know how to swim and immerge themselves. Equipment is provided with snorkeling material (wetsuit, non-slip shoes, life jacket, mask and snorkel). Material for children from 6 years old. Guests are advise to bring swimsuit, sunscreen , hat , sunglasses, beach towel. The transportation used is local and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Praia & Cidade Velha
Welcome to the largest and most African of the Cape Verde islands. This tour will take you to the heart of the recent capital, Praia, where you will discover the contrast between its history and the modern atmosphere that reigns there.
From the pier, you will meet your guide and drive to "the Plateau". There, you will start your guided walking tour of the historical centre of Praia. You will visit the Ethnological Museum which is located in a historic Portuguese colonial building. Your guide will tell you more about the way of life of the first inhabitants.
Afterwards, you will go to Cidade Velha which you will reach after 30 minutes of driving. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is the original capital of the Cape Verde Islands and the cradle of the slave trade.
Ribeira Grande, now known as Cidade Velha (“old city”), is the oldest city in Cape Verde Islands and was the first European settlement in the tropics. A colony was founded in 1462 by Antonio de Noli and prospered due to its prominent position in the slave trade. It became a city in 1572 and got a cathedral which was completed late in 1693. The great explorers Christopher Colombus and Vasco de Gama both stopped here on their respective expeditions, Christopher Colombus on his third voyage to the Americas in 1498, and Vasco de Gama on his way to India in 1497.
Before arriving, you will visit the ruins of the old Fort of Real do Sao Filipe, which overlooks the Cidade Velha. It was built in 1590 to protect Ribeira Grande after a devastating attack by the pirate Francis Drake. This defence soon proved insufficient and in 1712 the city was sacked again by the French pirate Jacques Cassart.
Once in the heart of Cidade Velha, you will discover the remains left by the first Portuguese settlers. You will visit its Cathedral, then you will walk along the Rua Banana and the Pelourinho, a pillory dating from the 16th century. Near these picturesque cobblestone streets, you will enjoy a cold drink to the sound of the drums of a batuco group that will offer you a traditional dance performance.
After discovering the soul of this island, you will return to the port of Praia and your ship.
-
This excursion involves approximately 1.5 km of walking over cobblestone streets with some steps. The transportation used is local bus and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. Euros banknotes are accepted at the souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Le Ponant
This legendary yacht offers a uniquely exclusive voyage experience. An invitation to sail, revitalise oneself, share, contemplate and respect the world around us. An ode to freedom and the treasures of nature.
With its common areas open extensively to the horizon, you will have never felt such communion with the elements. With one crew member per passenger and just thirty-two guests on board, you will have never enjoyed so much attention. With navigation under sail the moment conditions allow, you will have never savoured each second that passes to such an extent.
Up to 32 Guests
16 staterooms & suites
33 crew members
1 restaurant
Decks
Christmas Cruise
Christmas celebrations in an exceptional environment: change of scenery guaranteed.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
GLIMPSE OF MINDELO
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Mindelo
Meet at the airport in the Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will be transferred to a local restaurant for lunch.
You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- The transfer as mentioned in the programme.
- The meals mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Please note:
Please kindly note that the lunch will be served in a restaurant meeting local standards.
To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : £130
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.
The snorkelling
Together with your guide, board your vehicle and, leaving Sal Rei, drive to the north of the island to Baia das Gatas, passing through the beautiful landscapes of the north of the island. Boa Vista is famous for its long white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.
Baia das Gatas, on the northeast coast of Boa Vista, has optimal natural conditions for coral growth and safe snorkeling. The term "Gatas" refers to the local name for the nurse shark (not dangerous for humans), which mates in these waters during the summer.
You will meet your dive instructor who will give you all the necessary information for your snorkeling trip and remind you of the safety instructions.
Once your equipment is set up, the marine world is yours.
The coral community of this bay is characterized by hermetically sealed hard coral species, which harbor a particular diversity of marine life.
Cape Verde is among the top ten places in the world for its coral biodiversity. Although there are no real coral reefs in the archipelago, there are many sites rich in coral communities.
The biodiversity and the quantity are such that you will often have the impression to be in a huge aquarium, totally surrounded by movement and colours, where each moment is unique and indescribable!
You will be amazed by the underwater life that is offered to you.
After this underwater trip, you will leave for one of the small villages further north, to a typical bar to quench your thirst. This break will be a refreshing pause before taking the road back to the ship.
-
There is very little walking. Guests must know how to swim and immerge themselves. Equipment is provided with snorkeling material (wetsuit, non-slip shoes, life jacket, mask and snorkel). Material for children from 6 years old. Guests are advise to bring swimsuit, sunscreen , hat , sunglasses, beach towel. The transportation used is local and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
Praia & Cidade Velha
Welcome to the largest and most African of the Cape Verde islands. This tour will take you to the heart of the recent capital, Praia, where you will discover the contrast between its history and the modern atmosphere that reigns there.
From the pier, you will meet your guide and drive to "the Plateau". There, you will start your guided walking tour of the historical centre of Praia. You will visit the Ethnological Museum which is located in a historic Portuguese colonial building. Your guide will tell you more about the way of life of the first inhabitants.
Afterwards, you will go to Cidade Velha which you will reach after 30 minutes of driving. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this city is the original capital of the Cape Verde Islands and the cradle of the slave trade.
Ribeira Grande, now known as Cidade Velha (“old city”), is the oldest city in Cape Verde Islands and was the first European settlement in the tropics. A colony was founded in 1462 by Antonio de Noli and prospered due to its prominent position in the slave trade. It became a city in 1572 and got a cathedral which was completed late in 1693. The great explorers Christopher Colombus and Vasco de Gama both stopped here on their respective expeditions, Christopher Colombus on his third voyage to the Americas in 1498, and Vasco de Gama on his way to India in 1497.
Before arriving, you will visit the ruins of the old Fort of Real do Sao Filipe, which overlooks the Cidade Velha. It was built in 1590 to protect Ribeira Grande after a devastating attack by the pirate Francis Drake. This defence soon proved insufficient and in 1712 the city was sacked again by the French pirate Jacques Cassart.
Once in the heart of Cidade Velha, you will discover the remains left by the first Portuguese settlers. You will visit its Cathedral, then you will walk along the Rua Banana and the Pelourinho, a pillory dating from the 16th century. Near these picturesque cobblestone streets, you will enjoy a cold drink to the sound of the drums of a batuco group that will offer you a traditional dance performance.
After discovering the soul of this island, you will return to the port of Praia and your ship.
-
This excursion involves approximately 1.5 km of walking over cobblestone streets with some steps. The transportation used is local bus and do not have air-conditioning nor a PA-system. Euros banknotes are accepted at the souvenir shops (but not coins). We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.
PANORAMIC TOUR OF MINDELO
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Mindelo
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.
The cultural capital of Cape Verde, Mindelo will seduce you with its festive atmosphere, its colourful streets, and its houses with Portuguese and British influences.
The panoramic tour will take you to Mato Ingles, Praia Grande and Baia das Gatas.
Drive along Praia Grande beach.
After a tasting of a local liquor, surrounded by white sanded beaches, end your tour driving through the agricultural valley Ribeira de Calhau.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
- Transfers and visits as mentioned in the programme.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. . To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : £120
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.