Is a PONANT Colombia Cruise Worth It? An Honest Review from a First-Timer

For years, Colombia lingered on my travel wish list, a place painted in my mind with the vibrant hues of Gabriel García Márquez novels and the intoxicating rhythm of cumbia. It was a land of contrasts—of emerald jungles, sapphire seas, and cities pulsing with a resurrected energy. But how to experience its raw, untamed Caribbean coast without sacrificing comfort, without merely skimming the surface? The answer, I discovered, lay not on land, but at sea, aboard a vessel that promised both luxury and genuine exploration: a PONANT EXPLORATIONS cruise.

As a travel journalist, I’m inherently skeptical of brochure promises. "Luxury expedition" can often mean a compromise on one end of the spectrum—either the luxury isn't quite there, or the expedition feels canned. So, when the opportunity arose to sail Colombia's coast with PONANT, I approached it with an open mind and a critical eye. Is it truly worth the investment? Does it deliver on its promise of intimate discovery? For anyone contemplating this unique voyage, allow me to share my candid, first-timer experience.

The Allure of Colombia: More Than Just Coffee and Coastlines

Before we step aboard, let's talk about the destination itself. Colombia's narrative has transformed dramatically. The country has shed its troubled past to reveal a soul that is warm, resilient, and breathtakingly beautiful. Its Caribbean coast is a microcosm of this revival—a tapestry woven with threads of colonial history, indigenous culture, and some of the most staggering biodiversity on the planet. This isn't your typical Caribbean cruise itinerary of mega-ports and duty-free shops. This is a journey into the heart of what makes South America so compelling: its wildness, its history, and its people.

Choosing a small expedition ship like those in the PONANT fleet is a deliberate choice to engage with this coast on its own terms. It’s about accessing secluded coves the mega-liners can't reach, dropping anchor in pristine national parks, and using Zodiacs to explore mangrove forests teeming with life. It’s about depth over breadth.

First Impressions: What is the PONANT Difference?

From the moment I embarked in Cartagena, the PONANT philosophy became clear. This isn't about mass-market cruising; it's about creating a refined, intimate environment for discerning travelers. The French heritage is palpable—in the design, the service, and most certainly, the cuisine.

The Ship: A Floating Boutique Hotel

I sailed on Le Champlain, one of PONANT’s Explorer-class ships. With just 92 staterooms and suites, the vessel feels more like a private yacht than a cruise ship. The aesthetic is chic and contemporary, with a soothing palette of cream, wood, and shades of blue that mirror the sea outside. Every stateroom has a private balcony, a feature I consider non-negotiable for watching the world glide by with a morning coffee in hand.

Key features that immediately stood out include:

• Intimate Scale: With a maximum of 184 guests, you never feel crowded. Lines are non-existent, and there’s always a quiet corner to be found.
• Elegant Design: The ship is beautiful, full stop. From the sun-drenched main lounge to the infinity pool at the aft, every space is designed for comfort and aesthetic pleasure.
• The Marina: The ship features an innovative hydraulic marina at the stern, allowing for easy and safe boarding of Zodiacs for excursions, as well as providing a platform for swimming and watersports when at anchor.

As I was planning my trip, I found the Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page to be an excellent resource for visualizing the ship layouts and comparing different sailing dates. It’s a great starting point for understanding the hardware of your potential adventure.

The Vibe: Relaxed Luxury, Not Stuffy Formality

Perhaps my biggest question was about the atmosphere. Would it be formal? Stuffy? I was delighted to find the opposite. The onboard culture is best described as "barefoot luxury." While the service is impeccable and the surroundings are elegant, the dress code is relaxed. Think resort casual. Guests were a fascinating mix of well-traveled couples and solo adventurers from North America, Europe, and Australia, all bound by a shared curiosity for the world. Conversations in the lounge weren't about stock portfolios; they were about past travels to Antarctica or upcoming treks in Nepal. It’s an environment that fosters connection and shared discovery.

The Voyage: A Day-by-Day Journey Along the Caribbean Coast

The true measure of any expedition cruise is its itinerary. Our journey was a masterclass in showcasing the diversity of Colombia's coast, blending cultural immersion with natural wonder.

Day 1-2: Cartagena's Colonial Heartbeat

We began in Cartagena, a city that needs no introduction. But docking here for two days allowed for a deeper dive than the typical 8-hour port call. On the first day, I joined a guided walking tour through the UNESCO-listed Old Town. The humid air, thick with the scent of arepas and bougainvillea, was electric. We wandered through sun-drenched plazas, admired the ornate wooden balconies that define the city's architecture, and learned about the legends of pirates and colonial treasures.

The second day was for independent exploration. I lost myself in the vibrant Getsemaní neighborhood, its streets a living gallery of murals and street art. I sipped a limonada de coco at a café, watching the world go by. Having the ship as a luxurious, air-conditioned base to return to after a day in the tropical heat was an absolute godsend. This is where a cruise truly shines—you unpack once and wake up to a new, incredible vista each day.

Day 3: The Sun-Drenched Rosario Islands

A short sail from Cartagena brought us to the Rosario Islands, an archipelago of coral islets floating in a turquoise sea. Here, the ship’s marina came into its own. We dropped anchor in a secluded bay, and within minutes, the crew had kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling gear ready. I spent the morning paddling over coral gardens, spotting parrotfish and angelfish darting below. The water was impossibly warm and clear. This wasn't a crowded tourist beach; it felt like our own private slice of paradise.

Day 4-5: The Wild Majesty of Tayrona National Park

This was the highlight for me. Tayrona National Park is one of South America's natural jewels, where the jungle-clad mountains of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta tumble dramatically into the Caribbean Sea. Large cruise ships cannot anchor here. PONANT, however, can.

We spent two days exploring via Zodiac. Our expedition team, comprised of naturalists and biologists, led us on "wet landings" onto pristine, golden beaches framed by giant, ancient boulders. We hiked through the rainforest, the air alive with the call of howler monkeys and the flash of iridescent blue morpho butterflies. Our guide, a local expert, pointed out medicinal plants and shared stories of the indigenous Kogi people who consider this land sacred. It was a powerful, humbling experience that felt a world away from civilization. If this blend of raw nature and refined luxury speaks to you, the best next step is to Get a Custom Quote to see how this dream trip fits your calendar and budget.

Day 6: A Taste of 'Magical Realism' in a Secluded Village

Our final stop was a small, unnamed fishing village accessible only by sea. This is the kind of authentic encounter that PONANT excels at facilitating. We were welcomed ashore by the community, not as tourists, but as guests. We visited the local school, watched fishermen mending their nets, and were treated to a display of traditional dancing by the village children. It was an unscripted, heartfelt interaction that provided a genuine glimpse into coastal life, a perfect embodiment of the "magical realism" that defines this region. For nuanced questions about arranging culturally sensitive experiences like this, I’d recommend calling the dedicated line at 1 (888) 883‑0460; their specialists have deep destination knowledge.

Life Onboard: Beyond the Excursions

An expedition is as much about the journey as the destination, and life aboard Le Champlain was an integral part of the experience.

Gastronomy and Ambiance

True to its French roots, the cuisine was exceptional. In partnership with Ducasse Conseil, the culinary experience was a highlight. Breakfast and lunch were lavish buffet-style affairs with live cooking stations, while dinner was a more formal à la carte experience. The quality of the ingredients, from the fresh-baked bread to the perfectly seared scallops, was consistently high. And yes, the house wines and Champagne, included in the fare, flowed freely and were of excellent quality.

The Blue Eye Lounge: A Window to Another World

This is PONANT's signature feature and it’s truly unique. Located below the waterline, the Blue Eye is a multi-sensory lounge with two giant portholes shaped like the eyes of a whale. You can sit with a cocktail and watch the submarine world go by. Integrated hydrophones pipe in the ambient sounds of the ocean, creating a mesmerizing, almost meditative experience. It’s a stunning piece of marine architecture that you won’t find on any other cruise line.

The Expedition Team: Your Guides to the Extraordinary

The heart and soul of any expedition cruise is its expedition team. Our team was a passionate group of marine biologists, historians, and naturalists. They gave engaging lectures in the theater, joined us for dinner, and led every excursion with infectious enthusiasm and expertise. Their knowledge transformed what we were seeing from a beautiful landscape into a living ecosystem with a rich history. Have a quick question about the kind of experts on your sailing? The 'Chat with us' button in the lower-right corner is perfect for getting instant answers from a travel pro.

The Verdict: Is a PONANT Colombia Cruise Worth The Investment?

So, we return to the central question. A PONANT cruise is a significant investment, there's no denying it. But the question isn't about cost; it's about value. And in terms of value, my answer is an unequivocal yes.

You are paying for an all-inclusive experience that covers not just your stateroom and meals, but also an open bar, all excursions, gratuities, and Wi-Fi. When you factor everything in, the price becomes much more transparent and competitive compared to other luxury lines where these items are extra.

But the real value lies in the intangibles:

• Access: The ability to visit places like Tayrona National Park and remote villages that are inaccessible to larger groups.
• Expertise: The profound enrichment provided by a world-class expedition team.
• Intimacy: The experience of sharing a remarkable journey with a small group of like-minded travelers on a ship that feels like a private club.
• Comfort: The peace of mind that comes with knowing that after a day of adventurous exploration, you return to a haven of five-star comfort, service, and cuisine.

This is not a passive, sit-by-the-pool kind of vacation. It is an active, engaging, and deeply enriching journey for the curious traveler who wants to understand the world on a deeper level, without sacrificing an ounce of comfort. To truly understand the specific inclusions and potential for customization, I encourage you to Inquire About This Sailing. Our specialists can detail exclusive amenities and offers that aren't advertised online.

My first PONANT cruise to Colombia wasn't just a trip; it was a recalibration. It reminded me that travel can be both profoundly adventurous and exquisitely comfortable. It replaced the Colombia of my imagination with something far more real, vibrant, and unforgettable. If you're ready to trade daydreams for departure dates, it's time to Plan Your Colombia Adventure with an advisor who can handle every detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to cruise to Colombia?

The dry season, from December to March, is generally considered the best time to visit Colombia's Caribbean coast. You'll experience sunny skies, lower humidity, and ideal conditions for beach landings and hiking. However, the "green season" also has its charms, with lush landscapes and fewer crowds.

What is the dress code on a PONANT cruise?

The dress code is relaxed and elegant, often referred to as "resort casual." During the day, comfortable clothing for excursions is key (think lightweight pants, shorts, technical shirts). In the evening, most guests opt for smart casual attire—slacks and a collared shirt for men, a sundress or pants and a nice top for women. There is typically one Captain's Gala evening where guests may choose to dress up a bit more, but a jacket and tie are not required.

Are excursions included with PONANT?

Yes, on PONANT EXPLORATIONS itineraries like this one, all excursions led by the expedition team are included in the cruise fare. This typically covers all Zodiac outings, guided hikes, and cultural visits. There may be a few optional, specialized excursions (like scuba diving, if offered) that carry an additional charge.

Is Colombia safe for cruise passengers?

Yes. The areas visited by cruise lines like PONANT are carefully selected and are considered safe for tourists. As with any travel, it's important to be aware of your surroundings, especially in larger cities like Cartagena. However, when on guided excursions with the ship's expert team, you are in very capable and knowledgeable hands. The country has made incredible strides in security, and tourism is a vital, protected part of its economy.