Multicultural Discoveries from Malaysia to Thailand

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9 days from

£5074.5

* Current p/p indicative rate.

Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ships
What's Included
Optional Extras

Highlights

  • A brand-new cruise to discover the gems of South-East Asia, including legendary cities and heavenly islands.
  • Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the cities of Penang and Malacca and their rich Asian, Portuguese and Dutch heritage; Singapore Botanic Gardens.
  • The exploration of three countries in South-East Asia: Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
  • The multicultural and contrasted island city of Singapore, a mix of futuristic architecture, colonial districts and artistic vitality.
  • Paradisiac landscapes of the Ko Rok Nok Island: karstic islets, white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, luxurious flora and extraordinary marine fauna.
  • From Lumut, the possibility of visiting the Cameron Highlands hill station, the Ho Yan Hor Museum (herbal tea), and the mangrove forest reserve in Kuala Sepetang.

Highlights

  • A brand-new cruise to discover the gems of South-East Asia, including legendary cities and heavenly islands.
  • Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the cities of Penang and Malacca and their rich Asian, Portuguese and Dutch heritage; Singapore Botanic Gardens.
  • The exploration of three countries in South-East Asia: Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
  • The multicultural and contrasted island city of Singapore, a mix of futuristic architecture, colonial districts and artistic vitality.
  • Paradisiac landscapes of the Ko Rok Nok Island: karstic islets, white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, luxurious flora and extraordinary marine fauna.
  • From Lumut, the possibility of visiting the Cameron Highlands hill station, the Ho Yan Hor Museum (herbal tea), and the mangrove forest reserve in Kuala Sepetang.
Capacity: 184, Types: Luxury Small Ship CruiseLuxury ExpeditionWheelchair accessible

Set sail from Singapore with PONANT to discover the natural treasures and history-filled cities of South-East Asia. From Malaysia to Thailand, Le Lapérouse invites you on a brand-new 9-day cruise featuring heavenly islands, exceptional natural heritage and cultural discoveries where Asian, Indian and European influences mingle to make your Christmas unforgettable.

Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. On this cruise, discover the Habitat Penang Hill nature park and admire fascinating plant and wildlife; appreciate the richness of Laman Padi when you call at Langkawi Island to see rice plantations and visit a Buddhist temple; and explore the historic city of Malacca, now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).

You will cross the Strait of Malacca, once a strategic hub of the spice and silk trade, and discover the colourful and multicultural island of Penang, known for its British colonial buildings, its Chinese shops and its mosques.

Your cruise will continue along the coast of Thailand. In a sublime setting of emerald water, karstic cliffs, mangrove and white sand, Le Lapérouse will also drop anchor off the coast of the uninhabited island of Ko Rok Nok, a paradise for swimming and relaxation.

The ship will head southward to Langkawi Island, where you will discover scenery including picturesque rice fields and hills covered in rainforest.

On Christmas Day, spend some time relaxing on an idyllic beach, go snorkelling to admire the marine environment or take a swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Le Lapérouse will then make its way to Lumut, where a Kuala Sepetang river cruise will be an opportunity to contemplate the mangrove and perhaps spot some orang-utans among the trees. From this coastal town, known for its crafts using shells and coral, you will also be able to visit Ipoh, which for a long time attracted sultans, colonists, tea barons, merchants, street artists, entrepreneurs and miners, and which perfectly reflects Malaysia’s multiculturalism, history and traditions.

Finally, your cruise will end in Malacca City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where spices and silk were once traded.

  • A brand-new cruise to discover the gems of South-East Asia, including legendary cities and heavenly islands.
  • Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the cities of Penang and Malacca and their rich Asian, Portuguese and Dutch heritage; Singapore Botanic Gardens.
  • The exploration of three countries in South-East Asia: Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.
  • The multicultural and contrasted island city of Singapore, a mix of futuristic architecture, colonial districts and artistic vitality.
  • Paradisiac landscapes of the Ko Rok Nok Island: karstic islets, white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, luxurious flora and extraordinary marine fauna.
  • From Lumut, the possibility of visiting the Cameron Highlands hill station, the Ho Yan Hor Museum (herbal tea), and the mangrove forest reserve in Kuala Sepetang.

There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.

show reverse itinerary
Day 1 SINGAPORE

Nicknamed the Garden City, Singapore stretches across Malaysia's southern-most region. Experience the vibrant hustle and bustle of this city-state for yourself at the Marina Bay. No too far away is the historic centre, offering up a unique smorgasbord of neoclassical buildings and contemporary towers. Decked out in topiary, the pavements of Orchard Road are also home to countless shopping centres. The colourful markets in Chinatown and Little India are the perfect opportunity to quell hunger pangs in a hawker centre, one of the city's traditional snack bars. Between the two districts, get a slice of history with a trip to the Raffles dock. It was here that Englishman Sir Raffles, the founder of the city, is said to have arrived one fateful day in January 1819.

Day 2 AT SEA

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.

Day 3 PENANG (GEORGETOWN)

The leading British trading post of the Far East in the 19th century, this tiny island has a unique atmosphere of both East and West. Known as the “Pearl of the East” in the past, for its many trades of spice, fabrics, and tin, Penang has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Malaysia. George Town, its capital, is home to an extremely rich historical heritage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to discover the Blue Mansion, a real architectural marvel that blends traditional Chinese style with eastern elements.

Day 4 KO ROK NOK ISLAND

In the district of Ko Lanta in southern Thailand, Koh Rok island is actually two uninhabited twin islands, Koh Rok Nok and Koh Rok Nai. In the heart of a protected national park, Koh Rok Nok presents authentic scenery with lush vegetation, unusual coral reefs and surprising cliffs. At the island’s magnificent, crystal-clear beaches in the east, you will be able to have a wonderful time swimming or discovering the underwater world, brimming with myriad, rather friendly colourful fish.

Day 5 LANGKAWI ISLAND

Langkawi Island or Pulau Langkawi, also known as the “Malaysian paradise”, is the largest island in the eponymous archipelago. Composed of a group of 104 mostly uninhabited islands sitting atop the Andaman Sea, the archipelago, listed as a UNESCO Global Geopark, is brimming with natural wonders. Vast beaches of white sand line the contours of this island. Inland, it features jungle-covered hills, picturesque rice fields, ancient rock formations, and spectacular mountain peaks. The island is also home to several factories processing gamat, a sea cucumber used to produce a cream sought after for its medicinal and cosmetic virtues.

Day 6 BEACH TIME

Off the beaten path, spend an unforgettable moment on a little-known beach. With your feet in the water, let the murmur of the waves gently soothe you and the tropical heat envelop you as time stands still for you in this heavenly setting. Enjoy water-based activities or relax on the fine sand during this day entirely devoted to delighting the senses.

Day 7 LUMUT

From Lumut, you’ll be able to access the natural and cultural treasures of the State of Perak. As you travel through its luxurious landscapes of mangroves, hills, rice fields, and rivers edged with villages and waterfalls, you’ll be able to discover the local agricultural, culinary and artisanal traditions. This region has managed to conserve a rich architectural heritage with multiple influences that blend Asian, Oriental and European traditions. Also be sure to visit an orang-utan rehabilitation and conservation centre.

Day 8 MALACCA

Lying along the shores of the eponymous Strait, Malacca City has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A witness of the maritime traffic between Asia and the West, the city is inextricably linked to the trade of spices and silk. This cultural oasis will show you the history of a fascinating ancient civilisation, the Baba Nyonya, the descendants of Chinese immigrants who married Malay women. In a Peranakan house in Chinatown, you will discover the Baba Nyonya Heritage Museum, which reproduces the interior of a traditional elegant home from the 19th century. The Baba Nyonya were wealthy traders who liked to indulge their taste for sumptuous furniture made from teak and mother-of-pearl, rare jewels and silk brocade.

Day 9 SINGAPORE

Nicknamed the Garden City, Singapore stretches across Malaysia's southern-most region. Experience the vibrant hustle and bustle of this city-state for yourself at the Marina Bay. No too far away is the historic centre, offering up a unique smorgasbord of neoclassical buildings and contemporary towers. Decked out in topiary, the pavements of Orchard Road are also home to countless shopping centres. The colourful markets in Chinatown and Little India are the perfect opportunity to quell hunger pangs in a hawker centre, one of the city's traditional snack bars. Between the two districts, get a slice of history with a trip to the Raffles dock. It was here that Englishman Sir Raffles, the founder of the city, is said to have arrived one fateful day in January 1819.

Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Le Laperouse
Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed cabins, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yach…

Le Laperouse

Length 131 metres
Built 2017
Wheelchair accessible Yes
Lifts/elevators yes

Featuring innovative and environmentally-friendly equipment, elegantly designed cabins, spacious suites with large windows, and lounge areas that open onto the outside, this new limited-capacity yacht boasting just 92 cabins and suites will offer you a truly unique cruising experience.

Aboard this ship that flies the French flag, you will experience the incomparable pleasure of an intimate cruise, with the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic-chic ambiance with luxury service.

Experience a luxurious setting where the accent is on authenticity and passion for travel.

RESTAURANTS

As it is an essential part of French culture, gastronomy will naturally have pride of place aboard this new ship. Through its two restaurants, Le Lapérouse will invite you on a journey to elegance and epicureanism.

In a relaxed atmosphere, a first dining area located on Deck 3 and able to seat 70 will serve grilled meats daily, along with a variety of salads and desserts.

To the back of Deck 4, you will find a 260 m² panoramic restaurant which can accommodate all of our passengers in a single sitting. Designed differently to that on our other ships, this dining area, which opens onto the outside, will have a buffet of salads, desserts and cheeses at your disposal. Our discreet and attentive crew will provide table service for hot meals.

PUBLIC AREAS

Le Lapérouse has many common areas that are designed and equipped to meet all of your needs while preserving the intimacy of each passenger.

A 140 m² reception area includes: A reception/concierge desk, An excursions desk, The ship’s administrative services, The sales office, manned by our Guest Relations Officer, Our 50 m² boutique which sells clothing, jewellery, beauty products, postcards and various accessories, Toilets accessible to passengers with reduced mobility.

A new hydraulic platform with adjustable height provides: Easier boarding than on any other cruise ship, Easier Zodiac embarkation and disembarkation for expeditions, Easier access to the sea for swimming and practising various water sports such as kayaking or paddle-boarding.

A pool deck offering: A pool with a panoramic view, equipped with a counter-current swimming system, A pleasant solarium, An outdoor bar and lounge with armchairs and sofas.

A 200 m² main lounge which can accommodate all of our passengers to share convivial moments and to host activities organised during the day or evening.

Lastly, a theatre that seats 188, equipped with: The latest sound and lighting technology, A LED wall as the stage backdrop, for the projection of high-resolution images and videos.

Please click the following links to read more about Ponant and the other Ponant cruise ships.

Cabin layout for Le Laperouse

Includes

  • accommodation in stateroom,
  • the full meal plan,
  • the Open Bar: beginning with boarding, and during the duration of the cruise, a wide selection of drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, wine, beer, Charles Heidsieck champagne, spirits, coffee, tea) is served on request and at any time of the day. Certain premium alcoholic beverages on the menu are not included in the Open Bar,
  • free Wi-Fi internet access 24 hours a day*,
  • activities offered during expedition cruises (see section "Expedition cruises")
  • access to all the common areas:
    • fitness room, steam room, hair salon, swimming pool (sea water, heated), solarium, lounges, theater, boutique & leisure area.

Pre Cruise Singapore 1 Day Extention (PN)

£890.00
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme. Day 1 – Singapore Meet at Singapore Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent). You will be transferred to the hotel Fairmont Singapore 5*. Check in your room from 3pm. Afternoon and dinner at leisure to relax and enjoy your hotel's facilities. Overnight at the hotel Fairmont Singapore 5*. Day 2 - Singapore After breakfast, you will check out from your hotel. You will start your day with an exploration of the historic Colonial district where splendid architecture, complemented by lush vegetation, serves as the perfect backdrop for iconic photographs of Singapore. Next, you will visit Singapore's symbol, Merlion Park, a renowned tourist attraction that stands as one of the most famous symbols of major cities worldwide. You will proceed to the Museum of Asian Civilizations. It is the first one of its kind to put in perspective Pan- Asian heritage and culture. Its mission is the preservation of Asian cultural heritage, with a particular focus on Singapore's ancestral cultures from China, Southeast Asia, India, and the Islamic world. You will have a Chinese lunch in a local restaurant. After your lunch, you will be welcomed to the Chinese Opera Tea House. The 1960s ambiance of this historical venue will take you back in time. This experience will be a journey to discover Chinese opera, encompassing its sounds and vibrant visuals. This is why such an artistic expression is acknowledged as a form of theatre. There, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a special Chinese tea while witnessing the final completion of Chinese opera makeup by one of the artists you will encounter. Your immersion will conclude with an introduction to Chinese opera and a demonstration of select artistic movements and gestures. You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on board your ship. Your hotel: The luxury Fairmont Singapore hotel is located in the heart of Singapore's central business district. It offers elegant and meticulously appointed rooms, with panoramic views of the city or the bay, providing a delightful sight. Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail. Your programme includes: • 1-night accommodation in Deluxe Harbour View Room at the Fairmont Singapore 5* hotel local standards (or similar), breakfast included. • Meals as mentioned in the programme. • Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea). • Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme. • The services of a local English-speaking guide. • Hospitality desk at the hotel, the day of your arrival. Your programme does not include: • Lunch and dinner on day 1. • Personal expenses. • Visa if necessary. • Tips for the driver and local guide. • Early check-in and late check-out.
Overview
Highlights
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Map
Ship
What's Included
Optional Extras

9 days from £5074.5

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