Explore the World Aboard Ponant Smithsonian 2027 Voyages: Luxury Cruises for Every Traveler

Published on November 20, 2025

Travel enthusiasts, your next adventure awaits! Ponant, in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys, has unveiled an expanded line of 2027 voyages. These cruises are designed for explorers who seek culture, history, science, and unique experiences on all seven continents.

Ponant’s elegant ships combine French luxury with modern design. Guests enjoy private balconies, gourmet dining curated by Michelin-starred Chef Alain Ducasse, and all-inclusive fares that cover excursions, wine, spirits, gratuities, and Wi-Fi.

Witness the Rare Solar Eclipse at Sea

Departing Lisbon on July 30, 2027, the “Solar Eclipse at Sea” itinerary allows travelers to witness a celestial phenomenon over the Mediterranean. Guests explore Portugal’s Algarve and Spain’s Andalusia, including Portimão, Figueira da Foz, Marbella, and Cádiz.

Two Smithsonian experts will guide passengers through the science behind the solar eclipse. Geologist Jim Zimbelman, emeritus from the National Air and Space Museum, will provide fascinating insights during lectures on board.

This voyage is ideal for travelers interested in astronomy, history, and Mediterranean culture.

Explore Asia: Treasures of Japan & South Korea

Ponant’s 8-night Japan and South Korea cruise, departing May 1, 2027, highlights UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Hiroshima Peace Memorial, Bulguksa Temple, and Itsukushima Shrine. Travelers can relax in traditional Japanese hot springs, enjoy sake tastings, and visit ancient Buddhist temples in Busan.

This expedition combines cultural immersion with scenic coastal cruises, perfect for travelers seeking a deep dive into East Asia’s rich heritage.

Mediterranean Island Adventures

Ponant’s 7- or 8-night Mediterranean cruises explore Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, Elba, and Malta. Departures from Nice, France, offer the chance to discover Byzantine-Arab mosaics in Palermo and Roman ruins in Sicily.

Guests enjoy small-port experiences, local cuisine, and cultural highlights such as flamenco performances in Cadiz. These cruises are tailored for travelers who love history, art, and island exploration.

Discover the Historic Baltic

The 7-night Baltic cruise, departing June 11 and August 5, 2027, takes guests from Helsinki to Copenhagen. Travelers explore six countries, visit four UNESCO World Heritage sites, and attend onboard discussions with former Polish President Lech Wałęsa.

This itinerary blends political history, architecture, and scenic Nordic landscapes—perfect for culturally curious travelers.

Antarctic & Great Lakes Adventures

For wildlife enthusiasts, the 10-night Antarctica cruise departs January 17, 2027, from Ushuaia, Argentina. Guests encounter penguins, whales, and seals while hiking and kayaking among dramatic landscapes.

North American travelers can explore the Great Lakes on an 8-night cruise from Toronto to Milwaukee, visiting Niagara Falls, Mackinac Island, and the Henry Ford Museum.

Baja California: Whales & Marine Life

In February 2027, Ponant visits Baja California for the first time. The voyage includes lectures by marine biologists and whale specialists. Travelers experience whale watching in the Sea of Cortez, making this a rare adventure for ocean lovers.

Why Travelers Will Love Ponant Smithsonian 2027 Voyages

Ponant’s cruises are more than luxury travel—they offer an educational and cultural journey. From solar eclipses to UNESCO sites, Antarctic wildlife, and Asian heritage, every itinerary provides unique, immersive experiences.

Travelers enjoy all-inclusive fares, luxury accommodations, curated dining, and expert-led excursions, making these voyages ideal for global tourists seeking both comfort and discovery.

Conclusion

The strengthened partnership among the United States, Canada, and Finland marks a turning point for future Arctic travel. By expanding icebreaker shipbuilding and sharing specialized expertise, these nations are creating safer, more reliable pathways for global tourists eager to explore the far north. Travelers can expect enhanced access to remote polar regions, cleaner and more efficient ships, and new opportunities for sustainable adventure. As the ICE Pact continues to advance, the Arctic becomes not just a strategic zone but an inspiring destination for curious explorers. This collaboration brings the once-distant polar world meaningfully closer to travelers everywhere.