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From the Irish Sea to the Bay of Biscay

5.0/5 Based on 2 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Balcony
$6,235
Suite
$10,645
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
9 Days
 Cruise Starts
Glasgow
 Cruise Finishes
Bordeaux
Cruise Line
Ponant
Ship
Ship Class
Ponant Explorers
Departures
Passengers
184
Crew
118
Launched
2018
Cruise Code
GLWBOD8

Overview

Ponant invites you on a cultural cruise leaving from Scotland, featuring ports of call in Ireland, in the south of England, and on the Breton coastlines and the Bordeaux region in France. This timeless 9-day interlude will take you into the heart of lush green countryside, authentic ports, historic cities and famous vineyards.

Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, visit the Navan Fort archaeological site near Warrenpoint, fill up on chlorophyll in the Lost Gardens...read more of Heligan, leaving from Fowey, or discover the Médoc region’s famous “Route des Châteaux” in Pauillac. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).

From Glasgow, the largest city in Scotland, boasting a convivial atmosphere and authentic charm, you will sail to Warrenpoint, a seaside resort nestling in an exceptional natural environment. Then you will call in Portrush, where you can visit the Giant's Causeway. This massive geological formation is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features over 40,000 basalt columns.

You will make a stop in Cobh. This charming and romantic town, steeped in history and legend, will reveal itself through its maze of cobbled streets with, in the background, its 17th-century fortress and its majestic forest.

Then, mythical Cornwall will reveal itself. In Fowey, you will marvel at Mother Nature’s masterpieces. There, you will discover a spellbinding environment of majestic cliffs and vast natural spaces, conducive to escape and tranquillity.

You will cross the English Channel and reach the Breton coastlines with a first port of call in Roscoff. You will be enchanted by this port full of character, which is easily recognisable through its granite facades, testimony to a rich architectural heritage dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. You will then head for the Quiberon peninsula. Here, you will discover a dreamy setting between two seas with breathtaking scenery: on one side, the Atlantic Ocean and its wild coastline; on the other, Quiberon Bay and its sandy beaches.

Le Bellot will sail along the Atlantic front to the Gironde estuary. During your port of call in Pauillac, among other things, you will have the opportunity to enjoy several visits and wine tastings at some very beautiful wine estates in the Saint-Estèphe, Margaux and Pauillac appellations.

Cruise Itinerary

Departs: 18:00

Glasgow was Scotland's great industrial centre during the 19th century and today, the city remains the commercial and cultural capital of the Lowlands. Lying on the banks of the River Clyde, Glasgow boasts some of the finest Victorian architecture in the entire United Kingdom. Ships will dock in Greenock which is a 45 minute drive from Glasgow.

Top Things to Do in Glasgow:

  • admire the famed Glasgow Cathedral
  • stroll through the Glasgow Botanic Garden
  • cruise Loch Lomond
  • visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Arrives: 12:00 Departs: 18:00

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.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 14:00

Situated between the Mountains of Mourne and the glacial fjord of Carlingford Lough, the picturesque seaside town of Warrenpoint is the gateway to stunning natural wonders and some of the most scenic spots in Northern Ireland. Ships will dock at Warrenpoint Port.

Top Things to Do in Warrenpoint:

  • explore the Narrow Water Keep
  • stroll through Kilbroney Park
  • explore the Silent Valley Mountain Park
  • visit the Clontygora Court Tomb
  • walk the Giant’s Lair trail
  • visit the cultural hub of Newry

Arrives: 08:15 Departs: 14:00

Cheerful Cork is set in one of Ireland's most stunning settings, the city sprawls about the River Lee with bridges crisscrossing the city and leading to landmarks like St. Anne's Church and the Old City Gaol. Large ships will dock in nearby Cobh, (pronounced Cove), while smaller ships may dock in the heart of Cork city.

Stroll along the scenic River Lee to reach St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, an impressive Gothic Revival masterpiece with stunning stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings. For a unique experience, visit the Cork City Gaol, a former prison turned museum, offering fascinating insights into 19th-century prison life.

Port:Cobh

Cruise ships dock at Cobh Cruise Terminal, located about 22 km (14 miles) from Cork city center. The journey takes around 30 minutes by train or taxi. The terminal is well-connected with frequent trains running directly to Cork.

Cobh itself is a charming town with attractions like the Cobh Heritage Centre and the Titanic Experience, both offering insights into the town's maritime history. In Cork, visitors can explore the English Market, St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, and the lively streets filled with shops and cafes.

Arrives: 08:15 Departs: 18:00

Fowey, nestled on the Cornish coast of England, is a picturesque harbour town steeped in maritime history. Known for its deep-water harbour, Fowey has been a significant trading port since the Middle Ages and continues to charm visitors with its narrow, winding streets and medieval buildings. The town's literary connections, notably to author Daphne du Maurier, add a layer of cultural depth, with the Fowey Aquarium and St. Fimbarrus Church also popular with visitors.

A stroll along the esplanade reveals stunning views of the estuary and the surrounding hills, with nearby beaches, like Readymoney Cove, offering a tranquil spot for relaxation. Fowey also acts as a gateway to explore the South West Coast Path, providing ample opportunities for scenic walks with breathtaking coastal scenery.

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 14:00

Arrives: 08:00 Departs: 15:00

Arrives: 06:00 Departs: 16:00

Bordeaux, a jewel of southwestern France, offers cruise travellers a delightful mix of historical charm and modern vibrancy. Start your visit at Place de la Bourse, where the Water Mirror beautifully reflects the grandeur of 18th-century architecture. Stroll along the Garonne River, taking in the scenic views and the buzz of local life.

For a taste of Bordeaux's world-renowned wine, visit the Cité du Vin, an interactive museum dedicated to wine culture. Don’t miss the gothic masterpiece of Saint-André Cathedral or the bustling Capucins Market, perfect for sampling local delicacies.

Port:Pauillac

Discover Pauillac, a town in southwestern France located a few kilometres away from Bordeaux, stretching along the Gironde. The undisputed capital of Médoc, Pauillac will open up its magical universe for you, from culture and heritage to vineyards and châteaux. This stop will be a voyage of myriad flavours, particularly during the tasting of the region’s wines, revealing their soft ruby colours and reflections turning amber with time. Enjoy both a sensorial adventure and an adventure into the heart of the town. Don’t miss the visit of Saint Martin’s Church or the mysterious grotto of Artigues, dominated by a statue of the Virgin Mary. As for the Aspic Tower, it is topped with a dome from which the harvesters’ work used to be overseen.

Bordeaux, a jewel of southwestern France, offers cruise travellers a delightful mix of historical charm and modern vibrancy. Start your visit at Place de la Bourse, where the Water Mirror beautifully reflects the grandeur of 18th-century architecture. Stroll along the Garonne River, taking in the scenic views and the buzz of local life.

For a taste of Bordeaux's world-renowned wine, visit the Cité du Vin, an interactive museum dedicated to wine culture. Don’t miss the gothic masterpiece of Saint-André Cathedral or the bustling Capucins Market, perfect for sampling local delicacies.

Note: Ship ports may not be located in the starting & ending cities listed. Port and transfer details will be provided in your travel documentation. The provided itinerary is for informational purposes only. Activities and sightseeing attractions listed may not be available or achievable within the time in port.

Life Onboard Le Laperouse

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Le Lapérouse

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The Adjustable Marina

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Le Laperouse Reviews (2) Most Recent 'Le Laperouse' Reviews

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Australia's Iconic Kimberley 1 , VIC, Australia, Apr 2024
All of the trip was good, using Ponant the first time was good, food, good and variety, all the trips that were arranged were as expected. Hannah our travel advisor at Global Journeys was excellent, always ready to help with anything .
Fantastic Kimberley   3 , QLD, Australia, Aug 2023
One of the best holidays we have ever done Expensive, yes but you get what you pay for in the end This was 6* cruising at its best. The daily and at times twice daily zodiac excursions were special and led by well informed guides all of whom had professional qualifications in a relevant field.

Food was of the highest standard an the open bar well ...read more stocked to meet all tastes. Don't worry too much about formal gear, a sports coat and a colourful dress are all that is required on the two gala nights. On the other nights, slacks and polo are fine.

We helicoptered to Mitchell Falls which again was expensive but well worth it. Forget about the Horizontal Falls boat ride. Those that went were very dissatisfied as the most exciting of the two Falls is now closed due to a boating accident. I've seen more challenging wave sets in Moreton Bay. Overall 11/10 from us and very highly recommended

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Thursday 24 Sep 2026
Friday 02 Oct 2026
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Balcony
$6,235
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Suite
$10,645
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Friday 02 Oct 2026
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Thursday 24 Sep 2026
Friday 02 Oct 2026
Ship Le Laperouse
Balcony
$6,235
View Cabins
Suite
$10,645
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Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Ponant. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Ponant. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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