Description
This PONANT brand-new itinerary invites you to discover Vietnam. Embark in Haiphong aboard Le Lapérouse for an 11-day cruise between sumptuous landscapes and timeless cities.
From Haiphong, you will discover the Bay of Ha Long, a real jewel of Vietnam, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sailing among the limestone pillars, grottos and arches of this site with its surreal atmosphere will undoubtedly be the defining moment of your cruise.
You’ll then head back to Hon La, from where you’ll be able to access the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its karstic landscapes and lush tropical forest shelter spectacular underground caves and rivers as well as impressive biodiversity, including several rare species.
Le Lapérouse will then navigate to Da Nang, a lively city renowned for its five “Marble Mountains” and its long beaches. It is the gateway to the charming old city of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also have the opportunity to discover the former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hué, and its mausoleums. These architectural treasures, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are surrounded by lush nature and are home to the tombs of the ancient emperors.
Your ship will then drop anchor at Quy Nhon, from where you’ll discover Ghenh Da Dia, an astonishing grouping of basalt rocks formed 200 million years ago by the meeting of molten lava and frozen water, giving the impression of perfectly juxtaposed columns.
You will be welcomed by the crystal-clear shores of wild Doc Let, between dunes of immaculate sand, coconut trees and filao forests on the edge of the beach. Then you will set sail for Nha Trang, a lively seaside resort with beautiful beaches bordering the turquoise waters of a bay dotted with tropical isles.
Your voyage will end in Ho Chi Minh City. Founded in the 17th century, this city formerly known as Saigon sits right near the Mekong Delta, a mythical river on which small, colourful boats throng on market days.