Le Soleal, 9 Night Odyssey in the heart of Japan’s subtropical islands ex Osaka, Japan to Keelung, Taiwan

PONANT is the first cruise company to take you to the heart of the sublime landscapes of the tropical islands in southern Japan during a cruise. On this 10 day itinerary aboard Le Soléal, from Osaka to Keelung, you will discover the rich natural heritage, traditional villages and craft of the Okinawa, Yaeyama and Sakishima Islands, in the Ryukyu archipelago.

Departing from Osaka, Le Soléal will first sail towards the city of Shingu, where you will be able to walk the ancient pilgrimage routes of Kumano Kodō, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, connecting several religious sites nestling in tropical nature.

Le Soléal will set a course for the city of Kochi. Succumb to the charms of this city’s treasures, including lush vegetation, spellbinding caves, an emblematic castle, and ancestral arts and crafts.

Then Le Soléal will set sail for lively Kagoshima before calling at Miyanoura on the mountainous island of Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Providing an unspoilt natural setting for endemic species such as the Yakushima monkey and deer, the island is home to forests of ancient cedars, bewitching waterfalls, and majestic peaks.

On the western coast of the island of Okinawa, fall under the spell of Motobu and its idyllic beaches bordered by breathtaking nature before making a port of call in Naha, capital of the Okinawa Prefecture, where you will appreciate the vibrant atmosphere.

Further south, in the Sakishima archipelago, the island of Miyakojima stands before you. This lush islet, famous for its many sugar cane plantations, promises a unique moment during which you will make the most of its numerous natural assets, like its idyllic sandy expanses or its extraordinary marine life.

You will make a final stop in Ishigaki, the most important island in the Yaeyama archipelago. In the very heart of the Iriomote-Ishigaki National Park, you will be able to enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the eponymous city or discover Kabira Bay, renowned for its idyllic scenery, combining crystal-clear turquoise water and beaches of white sand.

You will finish this unique journey in Keelung, your disembarkation port in Taiwan.

Designed in 2013 and loyal to the PONANT spirit, Le Soléal like her sisterships embodies the subtle alliance between luxury, intimacy and wellbeing which is Ponant’s signature. The elegance of her exterior and interior lines and her intimate size (only 132 staterooms and suites)make this a rare and innovative yacht on the cruise market.

Interior Design:
With her fluid lines and a modern colour scheme combining natural wood with shades of grey and white, Le Soléal presents references to a nautical theme.

EXPERIENCE CRUISING ANOTHER WAY, DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF YACHT CRUISES.

Our mission is to transport you to mythical destinations and secret ports only accessible to small capacity ships.

To offer the delights of a French-inspired cuisine in an intimate environment - a discreet service where no attention to detail is spared - and unforgettable moments of relaxation on board elegant yachts of character.

To combine sophistication and conviviality, with priority given to authentic experiences, emotions and the ongoing quest for excellence.

Yacht cruises: more than a cruise, a privilege...

Attentive, professional, discreet and elegant, the fully bilingual service on board will meet your every desire. Our unique atmosphere is filled with a signature sentiment: a warm welcome from an experienced crew who are passionate about what they do, in the tradition of private yachting.

In the dining areas, our gourmet cuisine is worthy of top fine dining restaurants: exquisite wines are available, and menus are created with expertise by our skilled chefs with a French-inspired menu enhanced by specialties from our various ports of call.

Pleasure, enrichment, discovery: relax - we take care of everything...