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Ponant Explorations has announced an exciting expansion to its 2028 travel offerings in collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys, unveiling 15 new itineraries that promise to immerse travelers in the world’s most intriguing cultures and natural wonders. This expanded lineup enhances their existing collection to a total of 36 voyages, uniquely designed to span all seven continents, blending luxury cruising with educational enrichment.
The redesigned program aims to provide travelers with a deeper and more meaningful exploration experience. Each itinerary invites guests to connect with rich local traditions, stunning natural environments, and significant historical sites. A key feature is the onboard enrichment programs, where experts from Smithsonian Journeys lead discussions and presentations that enrich the travel experience with insightful destination knowledge.
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From the lush rainforests of Costa Rica and the ancient ruins of Sicily to the sparkling Greek islands and the historic Baltic waterways, the 2028 collection emphasizes destinations that celebrate the harmonies of culture, nature, and history.
One standout addition to this collection is the Costa Rica by Sea: Wildlife and Rainforests of the Pacific Coast itinerary, set to sail on February 16, 2028, from Puntarenas aboard the luxurious Le Bougainville.
This week-long journey explores the biodiverse Pacific coastline of Costa Rica, a region celebrated for its rich ecosystems and nature reserves. The carefully crafted itinerary introduces travelers to diverse habitats, from vibrant tropical rainforests to stunning coastal ecosystems and wildlife-rich national parks.
During the voyage, guests will have the opportunity to explore iconic locations like the Osa Peninsula and Manuel Antonio National Park, where the dense forests and varied marine environments are home to fascinating wildlife such as scarlet macaws, sloths, and various monkey species. This cruise also emphasizes the interplay between ecological preservation, geology, and the natural forces that shape Costa Rica’s landscapes, with onboard programs that enrich travelers’ understanding of the region’s environmental significance.
Another exciting new offering, Sailing the Adriatic: Treasures of Eastern Italy and Sicily, invites guests to partake in an eight-night exploration of Mediterranean culture, departing on September 27, 2028, aboard Le Dumont d’Urville. This cruise will traverse significant cultural landmarks from Venice, Italy, to Valletta, Malta, while following a route laden with history along the Adriatic coastline.
Travelers can expect to experience a rich tapestry of historic sites, including Ravenna’s mesmerizing Byzantine mosaics, Urbino’s Renaissance artistic landscapes, and Alberobello’s charming trulli houses. The journey also highlights Sicily’s majestic blend of Baroque architecture and ancient Greek theaters, offering a unique opportunity to witness centuries of artistic and architectural evolution.
Designed to reveal the complexity of the region’s cultural heritage, this itinerary allows travelers to delve deeper into the artistic accomplishments, historical landmarks, and geological formations that have defined the Adriatic area through generations.
In addition to the new sailings, Ponant Explorations is reintroducing several beloved Smithsonian Journeys voyages that allow travelers to explore unique regions around the globe. Highlights include the Treasures of Japan and South Korea by Sea, resuming on April 2, 2028, aboard Le Soléal. This engaging journey will take guests from Busan to Osaka, uncovering the rich cultural interconnections and maritime traditions of Northeast Asia.
For those drawn to the Mediterranean, options include the returning Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba, set for May 4 and May 14, 2028. Guests will sail aboard L’Austral and Le Dumont d’Urville, highlighting the unique characteristics of four magnificent Mediterranean islands through their diverse landscapes and traditions.
Other returning itineraries include the Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice, departing June 1, 2028, which will reveal Iceland’s striking landscapes, including volcanoes, glaciers, and geothermal marvels. Additionally, the Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea sailings are set to return on June 22 and July 12, 2028, connecting Copenhagen to Helsinki while showcasing the area’s historic ports and cultural heritage.
The itineraries will also include the Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean, with departures planned for June 24 and September 20, 2028, providing a chance to explore scenic islands filled with archaeological treasures. Finally, the Fall Foliage on the St. Lawrence: Québec to the Canadian Maritimes voyage is set for October 1, 2028, and will travel from Toronto to Boston, showcasing breathtaking landscapes and historic sites across Eastern Canada and the Northeastern United States.
A core component of the Smithsonian Journeys collaboration is the commitment to educational enrichment during each journey. Travelers can engage in expert-led sessions that delve into the history, culture, and natural environment of the destinations they visit.
These programs aim to complement shore excursions, providing valuable context on local traditions and natural wonders, transforming each stop into an immersive learning experience. This combination of thoughtful exploration and specialized knowledge enables guests to engage with destinations on a more profound level, all while enjoying the comforts of expedition cruising.
Ponant Explorations’ expanded 2028 Smithsonian Journeys collection illustrates a continuing trend toward travel experiences that emphasize authentic discovery, education, and genuine connections. With 36 thoughtfully curated voyages across seven continents, travelers have a plethora of opportunities to engage with diverse cultures and environments.
From the lush rainforests of Central America to the ancient shores of the Mediterranean, the carefully crafted itineraries showcase the world’s rich natural and cultural diversity. Through its ongoing partnership with Smithsonian Journeys, Ponant Explorations is committed to creating voyages that transcend traditional cruising, prioritizing exploration, knowledge, and personal discovery at the heart of every adventure.
Source: The post Ponant Explorations Unveils Expanded 2028 Smithsonian Journeys Program With New Cultural and Nature Focused Cruises first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
