Enchanting shores of England

Overview

Le Boréal

Le Boréal, like its Sisterships L’Austral, Le Soléal and Le Lyrial, epitomises the unique feel and atmosphere of the ships of the PONANT fleet. Subtly combining luxury, intimacy and serene well-being, the ship has been designed to offer passengers both moments of conviviality and spaces conducive to peaceful tranquillity and a sense of escape and getting away from it all. Its exterior and interior lines testify to the ingeniousness and refinement with which the Sisterships have been designed. 

highlights

• 15 night polar expedition onboard Le Boréal from Honfleur, France to Glasgow, Scotland

• A brand-new exploration cruise to discover natural scenery and historic cities along the Celtic and British shores +  archaeological sites, exceptional landscapes and the rich birdlife of the British archipelago of the Hebrides.

• UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Giant’s Causeway and its coast near Portrush.

• Outings and shore visits in zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides.

• A stop on the Isle of Portland, where landscapes include limestone coastline and verdant plains.

• Kinsale, regarded as the most beautiful village in Ireland.  

• Outings and shore visits with an experienced team of naturalist-guides. 

• Sail into the heart of Celtic shores, lands of magic and legends.

• The port of call at Callanish, on the Isle of Lewis, to attempt to unravel the mystery of the eponymous megalithic site, an arrangement of 50 standing stones dating back to the Stone Age.

• The Scenery: islands, lochs, volcanic landscapes, cliffs, basaltic organs, sculpted dunes, sandy beaches, heather moors, wild marshes, granite hills, stone circles, cairns, rocky coasts, remarkable gardens.

• The wildlife: sea birds : guillemot, great skua, puffin, razorbill, turnstones, purple sandpipers, dunlins and sanderlings, Greenland barnacle goose, dotterels, ringed plovers, skylarks and oystercatchers; harbor and grey seals, poney.

Itinerary

Ports of Call & Excursions

May 14, 2025 - Honfleur

Embarkation 5/14/2025 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 5/14/2025 at 9:00 PM

A treasure of the Côte Fleurie, Honfleur is located on the edge of la Crique de Rouen in Normandy. You will no doubt admire the historical ships moored in its old port. With its tall, slate-covered houses, the quays provide a great setting for a very nice walk. In the streets behind the harbour, you will see many timber houses. These picturesque places were the cradle of several pre-impressionist painters. You can see their works in the Eugène Boudin museum. Exhibited works represent scenes of medieval streets and the coastline as it used to be, as illustrated by the Butin beach and its lush green hillsides.

May 15, 2025 - Isle of Portland

Arrival 5/15/2025
Departure 5/15/2025

Lying along the steep shores of the Channel, at the southernmost point of the county of Dorset, in south-west England, the limestone-rich island of Portland surprises visitors with its wild and unspoiled natural environment, its easy way of life, and its mild seaside climate. The island was the site of the first Viking raid on British soil in 789 and still bears traces of a rich history. One of these is its castle, built in the 16th century, at the request of Henry VIII, to counter the French attempts to invade. The British island welcomes numerous species of migratory birds. It also stands out for its environment combining sheer cliffs, carved by the waves, and a rich biodiversity. This is an unforgettable port of call, where the accent is on tranquillity, elation and discovery.

May 16, 2025 - Fowey

Arrival 5/16/2025
Departure 5/16/2025

In mythical Cornwall, at the mouth of the River Fowey, the eponymous town surprises and enchants. Edged with lush valleys, Fowey is ideal for those who love nature and the great outdoors and are looking to escape and relax. The charming little town has many coastal hiking trails. Stroll through its narrow streets of its picturesque old town, which was home to the British novelist and playwright Daphné du Maurier as well as inspiring her work.

May 17, 2025 - Falmouth

Arrival 5/17/2025
Departure 5/17/2025

In the far south of legendary Cornwall, along the banks of the Fal ria, fall in love with the enchanting port city of Falmouth. Nestling at the heart of lush landscapes, between verdant plains and beautiful beaches edged by the crystal-clear waters of its bay, Falmouth is the ideal destination for visitors seeking serenity, history and authenticity. Here, you will be surprised by the perfect blend of maritime heritage, historical landmarks, natural beauty, and relaxed atmosphere.

May 18, 2025 - Kinsale

Arrival 5/18/2025
Departure 5/18/2025

Considered Ireland’s most beautiful village, Kinsale will captivate you with its sublime natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Located at the mouth of the Bandon River in County Cork, this charming little port is home to picturesque streets lined with colourful houses, art galleries and theatres, as well as to a 17th-century fort. Not far away, perched on a rocky promontory, stands the Old Head of Kinsale Lighthouse: still in operation today, it has magnificent views over the Atlantic Ocean.

May 19, 2025 - Fishguard

Arrival 5/19/2025
Departure 5/19/2025

A small coastal town located in the South Wales, Fishguard will offer you a peaceful stop during your cruise. Nestling in the hollow of two hills, the city, once a Viking trading post, is now the ideal starting point for exploring the Welsh countryside. Across its vast expanses of fertile land, its green valleys and its magnificent moors, the region will reveal its rich historical heritage to you. Among other things, you will be able to visit mediaeval Pembroke Castle, renowned for its impressive architecture and the illustrious people who have lived there, such as Gerald de Windsor.

May 20, 2025 - Warrenpoint

Arrival 5/20/2025
Departure 5/20/2025

On the shores of Carlingford Lough, a fjord marking the eastern end of the border between Ireland and the UK, lies the charming seaside resort of Warrenpoint. Set in stunning natural surroundings and dominated by the Mournes and Cooley peaks, the area is ideal for walking. It is also the starting point for an escape to discover the archaeological site of Fort Navan, also known as Emain Macha, once considered the capital of the Ulster kings. At the Castle Ward, a Victorian tower house, you can gain an insight into the lives of its inhabitants in the 18th century. Or you may prefer to learn about the history of Belfast's water supply at Silent Valley Park.

May 21, 2025 - Portrush

Arrival 5/21/2025
Departure 5/21/2025

Portrush is a small seaside resort in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, which is famous for hosting The Open golf tournament in 1951 and 2019. The main part of the old town is located on a peninsula that is 1.5-km (1-mile) long, Ramore Head. With three beautiful sandy beaches, the town has a pleasant seaside atmosphere and great appeal due to its proximity to exceptional cultural sites, such as Dunluce Castle or the Giant’s Causeway, a unique natural wonder, the most fascinating formation of basalt columns in the world, and the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland.

May 22, 2025 - Glasgow, Scotland

Arrival 5/22/2025 early morning
Departure 5/22/2025 at 6:00 PM

In the heart of the Clyde Valley, the bustling city of Glasgow contrasts starkly with the wild beauty of the surrounding countryside. Scotland's biggest city overflows with landmarks from its extensive artistic heritage and outstanding architectural tradition. The city's chequerboard layout makes walking through the major pedestrian thoroughfares easy: go with the flow and let the lively street atmosphere take you past the many Victorian monuments. Don't miss the collections on display in the numerous museums and art galleries. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is an outstanding example.

May 23, 2025 - Iona, Hebrides

Arrival 5/23/2025
Departure 5/23/2025

Of all the islands in the Inner Hebrides, Iona is by far the most conducive to contemplation and meditation. And for good reason... it is here that St Columba landed from Ireland in 563 and undertook to establish Christianity in Scotland. Now an abbey, the islandﾒs true spiritual centre stands where the ancient monastery founded by the Irish missionary was built. Many kings of Scotland, including the legendary Macbeth, are buried in the nearby cemetery. In sunny weather, arriving on the Isle of Iona is a stunningly beautiful experience.

May 23, 2025 - Lunga, Treshnish Isles

Arrival 5/23/2025
Departure 5/23/2025

The Treshnish Isles lie off the Isle of Mull, to the west of Scotland, forming a small archipelago of seven islands of volcanic origin that belongs to the Inner Hebrides. Basalt cliffs and rocky coves shape the contours of the largest island, Lunga, while its inner lands are carpeted with moors. Inhabited until the 19th century, Lunga still bears the remains of traditional blackhouses, visible in situ. Designated a Special Protection Area, the island is now the kingdom of pelagic birds, including Atlantic puffins, and also home to a large seal colony. The craggy terrain and panoramic scenery of this island will delight bird-watchers and nature-lovers.

May 24, 2025 - Canna, Hebrides

Arrival 5/24/2025
Departure 5/24/2025

The Hebrides archipelago has many natural treasures, including Canna, a preserved little island with the pretty nickname “the garden of the Hebrides”. Inhabited since the Neolithic period, Canna has only around twenty inhabitants today but its territory has a rich history featuring Christians, Celtic monks, Norse settlers and Scottish communities, all of whom left traces of their passage, monuments, churches or Celtic crosses as heritage. You will take the time to enjoy beauty of the nature here, between the land and the ocean, from the diversity of the floral species to the captivating dance of the seabirds, including guillemots, come to nest in the island’s protected spaces. 

May 25, 2025 - Callanish, Outer Hebrides

Arrival 5/25/2025
Departure 5/25/2025

In Scotland’s Outer Hebrides, on the legendary Isle of Lewis, Callanish dazzles and surprises, fascinates and questions. On the eastern coast of the island, where land and sea rub shoulders and clash in the tumult of wild nature, discover the Callanish Stones megalithic site. No fewer than 51 stones stand in the middle of the peat fields. Deliberately arranged about 5,000 years ago, they are a mysterious testimony to the Stone Age. There are many theories as to the purpose of these stones — a place of worship, a lunar calendar, an astronomic observatory or a healing centre — but they remain an enigma. The singular atmosphere of this site lends itself to all sorts of interpretations, to all sorts of dreams and musings.

May 26, 2025 - Ullapool, Scotland

Arrival 5/26/2025
Departure 5/26/2025

On the West Coast of the Northern Highlands, you’re sure to be charmed by the picturesque city of Ullapool, so often admired by holidaymakers passing through. While this delightful fishing port has proven to be the ideal departure point for exploring the region on foot, the place itself is worth the detour. Stretching along the quiet, majestic banks of loch Broom, whitewashed cottages line the harbour and the pretty pebble beach. The view of the surrounding mountains only makes this image postcard-perfect. To find out more about Ullapool’s origins, you can visit the town’s museum dedicated to local history.

May 27, 2025 - Portree, Isle of Skye

Arrival 5/27/2025
Departure 5/27/2025

Nestling in the crux of a gorgeous bay, Portree reflects the magnificence of the grandiose Isle of Skye as well as being its main town. Apart from the charm of its colourful houses, the town’s outstanding location on the banks of a loch makes it a very pleasant place to be. From its colourful harbour bustling with local craftsmen’s shops, you can take in a stunning view of the surrounding hills. Before trekking through the wilderness and drinking in the natural beauty of the Isle of Skye, check out some of the beautiful images in the Aros Centre.

May 28, 2025 - Tobermory, Isle of Mull

Arrival 5/28/2025
Departure 5/28/2025

Located at the northernmost tip of the lovely Isle of Mull, Tobermory has to be one of the most beautiful natural seaports on Scotland’s West Coast. Founded in 1788, this ancient fishing village has been converted to a leisure port highly appreciated today for its surroundings and the quiet charm it exudes. You will definitely be won over by the row of many-storied houses on the hillside, illuminating the harbour with their vibrant colours. Although the real spectacle is outdoors, no less interesting are the Mull Museum dedicated the local history and the exhibitions at the An Tobar art gallery.

May 29, 2025 - Glasgow, Scotland

Arrival 5/29/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 5/29/2025 at 7:00 AM

In the heart of the Clyde Valley, the bustling city of Glasgow contrasts starkly with the wild beauty of the surrounding countryside. Scotland's biggest city overflows with landmarks from its extensive artistic heritage and outstanding architectural tradition. The city's chequerboard layout makes walking through the major pedestrian thoroughfares easy: go with the flow and let the lively street atmosphere take you past the many Victorian monuments. Don't miss the collections on display in the numerous museums and art galleries. The Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum is an outstanding example.