Natural sanctuaries & Caribbean encounters

Through PONANT’s alliance with The Explorers Club, this voyage will feature Ricardo A. Nascimento, accomplished underwater cinematographer and Sony Wildlife Photographer. Based in Lisbon, Portugal, Ricardo has carved out a niche for himself by capturing breathtaking footage of marine life, adventure, and sports around the globe. His work has taken him to some of the most remote and challenging underwater environments, where he utilizes his expertise in freediving and scuba diving to capture stunning visuals. He has worked with top brands like Red Bull and Lexus. As an Explorers Club Fellow, Ricardo is dedicated to ocean conservation, using his films to inspire and educate on protecting marine environments.

On this 10-day expedition cruise with PONANT, contemplate the various nuances of green offered by the lush forests of Belize and Honduras, and admire the Caribbean Sea’s many shades of blue, while delving into fascinating cultures. The idyllic landscapes and captivating encounters with the local population will make your journey unforgettable, as you discover Central America’s most beautiful sites.

During your odyssey aboard Le Champlain, expect to hear birdsong and see dense tropical forests and the intertwined roots of mangrove burgeoning with life. From Punta Sal, you will explore the Jeannette Kawas National Park, a haven of peace where the forest melts into the sea, allowing you to contemplate unique biodiversity. You will then explore a completely undiscovered island, Guanaja, which is full of treasures. Just its former name, the green island, is enough to conjure up its many gems. Here you will discover the Caracoles people, who take pride in their traditions, on the small key of Bonacca, also known as The Cay, with its mangroves, tropical rainforests and sandy beaches sheltering rich wildlife.

La Ensenada is another little-known and pristine paradise; it invites you discover its unique ecosystem, aboard traditional local boats, and explore its impressive mangroves, which shelter rich biodiversity. You can also take the time to explore this picturesque and authentic village, making the most of a dreamed-of opportunity to meet a welcoming community and discover their customs and traditions.

The stunning nature here will reveal itself in the heart of a Caribbean atmosphere imbued with history and tradition. The Garifuna people will welcome you on the small island of Chachauate in the Cayos Cochinos with a unique performance, a visit of their village and the possibility of tasting their singular gastronomy.  In the small town of Placencia, a perfect spot to spend a moment relaxing on the main street running along the seafront, you will be able to hear all about the Mopan and Kekchi Mayan civilisations, a fascinating story that is inextricably linked to the region. You will also fall in love with its many mangroves and its exceptional sea beds. You will discover the local arts and crafts throughout your journey, thus learning about the heritage of these Caribbean shores.

Half Moon Caye, the picture postcard view of Belize, is also on the programme of this cruise; in this enchanting place, you will be able to see nesting frigatebirds and red-footed boobies close up. The Great Blue Hole cenote, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world’s most stunning diving sites. On Water Caye, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System is also teeming with many treasures for those who venture into its waters.