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Asia is a continent of remarkable contrasts. Ancient temples stand alongside futuristic cities, tranquil islands meet bustling ports, and centuries-old traditions continue alongside modern lifestyles.
A PONANT Asia cruise offers a different way to experience this incredible diversity. Travel by luxury small ship between fascinating destinations, discover historic cities and remote islands, and experience local cultures without having to constantly pack and unpack.
From the temples and traditions of Japan to the spectacular coastlines of Vietnam, the islands of Indonesia, the cultural richness of Southeast Asia and the contrasts of China and Hong Kong, there is an Asian journey to inspire almost every type of traveller.
At a Glance
| What to Discover | Asia Cruise Experience |
|---|---|
| Destinations | Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, China, Hong Kong, the Philippines and other Asian destinations |
| Best For | Culture, history, cuisine, photography, island exploration, nature and immersive travel |
| Highlights | Ancient temples, historic cities, tropical islands, local markets, dramatic coastlines and UNESCO-listed sites |
| Cruise Style | Luxury small-ship cruising with a focus on discovery and authentic experiences |
| Ships | Selected PONANT small luxury and expedition ships, depending on itinerary |
| Experiences | Cultural excursions, food and wine, wildlife, photography, nature and coastal exploration |
| Ideal For | Couples, solo travellers, culture lovers, food enthusiasts, photographers and curious explorers |
Discover one of Australia's most remote and spectacular wilderness regions on a PONANT Kimberley cruise. Travel between Broome and Darwin aboard a luxury small expedition ship, exploring dramatic sandstone coastlines, spectacular waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, tidal phenomena and extraordinary wildlife.
A Kimberley expedition is very different from a conventional cruise. With Zodiacs, expert Expedition teams and small-group experiences, PONANT allows you to explore places that are difficult to reach by road and experience the Kimberley from a completely different perspective.
Japan offers one of Asia's most fascinating combinations of ancient tradition and modern innovation.
Explore historic cities, tranquil gardens, traditional architecture and sacred sites while also discovering the energy of Japan's modern urban centres.
Depending on the itinerary, you may visit destinations such as Tokyo, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kagoshima, Kochi and Ishigaki.
Japan is particularly rewarding for travellers interested in culture, history, food, photography and tradition.
PONANT's current Japan offerings include itineraries across multiple Japanese destinations, with voyages designed to explore both famous locations and less familiar parts of the country.
Vietnam combines fascinating history, vibrant cities, dramatic landscapes and an extraordinary culinary tradition.
A cruise can provide a different perspective on the country, allowing you to experience coastal destinations while enjoying the convenience of travelling by small ship.
From Ha Long Bay and historic ports to bustling cities and local communities, Vietnam offers plenty for curious travellers to discover.
Best for: Culture, history, photography, food and scenic cruising.
Indonesia is an extraordinary collection of islands, each with its own landscapes, cultures and traditions.
A PONANT expedition can take you beyond the most familiar tourist destinations and into a world of remote islands, tropical waters, traditional communities and extraordinary marine environments.
Indonesia is an excellent choice for travellers who want to combine nature, culture, wildlife and island exploration.
Best for: Island lovers, photographers, nature enthusiasts and adventurous travellers.
Depending on your itinerary, you may explore Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and neighbouring destinations, experiencing everything from historic towns and temples to tropical islands and lush landscapes.
The region is particularly appealing if you want a journey that combines culture, nature, beaches and local experiences.
PONANT's Southeast Asia offerings currently include itineraries involving Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines.
China offers remarkable contrasts, from historic villages and cultural landmarks to enormous modern cities.
Hong Kong adds another dimension, combining spectacular skylines, harbour views, markets, cuisine and a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences.
A cruise through this region can provide an opportunity to see both the historic and modern faces of Asia.
Best for: History lovers, photographers, food enthusiasts and travellers fascinated by modern Asian cities.
Thailand and Myanmar offer opportunities to experience ancient traditions, beautiful landscapes and fascinating cultural heritage.
From temples and historic sites to tropical coastlines and local communities, these destinations can add depth and variety to an Asian voyage.
Best for: Culture enthusiasts, photographers, history lovers and travellers seeking tropical scenery.
Experience Asia Beyond the Usual Tourist Trail
A PONANT cruise can take you beyond the most familiar Asian destinations.
Smaller ships provide a more intimate way to travel, allowing selected itineraries to include smaller ports and less conventional destinations.
You can spend your journey moving between fascinating places without repeatedly changing hotels, flights and trains.
Immerse Yourself in Ancient Cultures
Asia's cultural heritage is one of its greatest attractions.
Discover temples, shrines, historic towns, traditional villages and centuries-old customs. From Japanese gardens and Buddhist temples to Southeast Asian cultural sites, every destination can reveal another layer of the region's history.
For travellers who love to learn while they travel, Asia offers almost limitless possibilities.
Discover Extraordinary Landscapes
Asia is not only about cities and culture.
Depending on your itinerary, you can experience:
- Tropical islands
- Limestone cliffs
- Dramatic coastlines
- Rice terraces
- Forests and jungles
- Volcanic landscapes
- Remote beaches
- Hidden bays and islands
The scenery changes dramatically from one destination to the next.
Taste Your Way Through Asia
Food can be one of the most memorable parts of an Asian journey.
From Japanese cuisine and Vietnamese street food to Thai flavours, Indonesian specialities and regional seafood, each destination offers something different.
For food lovers, an Asia cruise provides an opportunity to experience the region one destination and one dish at a time.
Travel in Comfort
After a day of exploring temples, markets, villages or natural landscapes, return to the comfort of your PONANT ship.
Enjoy elegant surroundings, fine dining and time to relax while the ship carries you towards your next destination.
It is a particularly appealing way to combine discovery and luxury.
| If you want to... | Consider... |
|---|---|
| Experience ancient traditions | Japan |
| Explore temples and historic sites | Japan, Vietnam or Southeast Asia |
| Discover tropical islands | Indonesia, Philippines or Southeast Asia |
| Experience exceptional cuisine | Japan, Vietnam or Thailand |
| Combine culture and nature | Vietnam, Indonesia or Southeast Asia |
| Photograph dramatic landscapes | Japan, Vietnam or Indonesia |
| Discover major Asian cities | Japan, China and Hong Kong |
| Meet local communities | Indonesia, Philippines or Southeast Asia |
| Explore a country in depth | A destination-focused itinerary |
| Combine several cultures | A multi-country Asia voyage |
BlueSun Insight
Don't choose your Asia cruise simply by looking at the number of destinations.
Think about the experiences you want most.
If you love Japanese culture, a Japan-focused voyage may be more rewarding than trying to see half of Asia in one trip.
If you want tropical scenery and island exploration, Southeast Asia or Indonesia may be the better choice.
If history, culture and major cities appeal to you, consider Japan, China and Hong Kong.
The best Asia cruise is the one that matches your idea of an unforgettable journey.
Cultural Experiences
Visit temples, shrines, historic districts and traditional villages. Learn about local customs and discover the stories behind the places you visit.
Food & Wine
Explore Asia through its extraordinary cuisine, from Japanese dining traditions to Southeast Asian flavours and fresh regional seafood.
Photography
Asia provides endless opportunities for photography — colourful markets, ancient architecture, tropical islands, dramatic landscapes and everyday life.
Wildlife & Nature
From tropical forests and marine environments to remote islands and unique wildlife, selected Asian expeditions bring nature closer.
Small-Ship Exploration
Small-ship cruising provides a more intimate way to experience Asia and can allow selected itineraries to visit smaller ports and less conventional destinations.
There is no single best month for every Asian destination.
Asia covers an enormous geographical area, so weather and cruising seasons vary considerably between countries.
Your ideal travel period depends on where you want to go.
Japan
Spring is particularly appealing to travellers hoping to experience Japan's famous cherry blossoms, while autumn offers colourful foliage and generally attractive conditions in many regions.
Southeast Asia
Travel conditions vary between countries and coastlines. Your cruise itinerary should be considered alongside the region's seasonal weather patterns.
Indonesia
Indonesia's tropical climate means conditions can vary between islands and regions. The right timing depends on the itinerary.
China & Hong Kong
Spring and autumn can be attractive periods for exploring many parts of the region, although conditions vary considerably depending on the route.
BlueSun Insight: Rather than asking "When is the best time to cruise Asia?", start with where you want to go and what you want to experience.
1. Cultural Immersion and Authentic Experiences
Asia is a melting pot of ancient traditions and modern innovation, and Ponant’s cruises offer access to both. Whether it’s visiting the historic temples of Kyoto, exploring the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, or experiencing the tranquil beauty of Ha Long Bay, Ponant’s itineraries allow you to immerse yourself in the region’s rich cultural tapestry. The cruise line also offers tailored shore excursions, guided by local experts, providing an authentic look into the heart of each destination.
2. Exotic and Varied Itineraries
From Japan to Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Myanmar, Ponant’s Asia cruises span a wide variety of countries and regions. Passengers can explore everything from the tropical beaches of Southeast Asia to the historical landmarks of China and the natural wonders of Indonesia. The diversity of experiences—urban cities, remote islands, temples, wildlife reserves, and UNESCO World Heritage sites—ensures there is something for everyone.
3. Small Ships, Big Experiences
Ponant’s fleet of small luxury ships allows for more intimate and unique experiences. These smaller vessels can access less-visited ports and secluded destinations that larger cruise ships cannot, creating a more exclusive and personalised adventure. Whether you're docking in hidden coves or exploring coastal towns, Ponant’s smaller ships offer access to off-the-beaten-path gems in Asia.
4. Onboard Luxury and French Elegance
Ponant is known for its sophisticated French touch, providing world-class dining, luxury accommodations, and top-tier service. The blend of French art de vivre with the beauty and mystique of Asia creates a truly luxurious cruise experience. After a day of exploration, you can return to the comfort of your elegantly designed cabin, indulge in gourmet cuisine, or relax at the onboard spa.
5. Expert-Led Enrichment
Ponant cruises are known for their emphasis on enrichment, with onboard experts such as historians, naturalists, and cultural specialists offering lectures and insights into the destinations. This adds depth to the journey, allowing passengers to learn about the region’s history, wildlife, and cultural significance, enhancing their overall experience.
In summary, Ponant’s Asia cruises combine the thrill of discovering Asia’s hidden treasures with the comfort and elegance of luxury cruising. With exclusive access to remote destinations, enriching cultural experiences, and Ponant’s hallmark of French sophistication, these cruises offer an unforgettable way to explore the wonders of Asia.
For more information on our Asia Cruises packages or any of our Ponant Cruises or and other cruise packages,
Call 1300 799 758 now.
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