Cruising the Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea

From Stockholm to Copenhagen Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain or Le Dumont-d’Urville

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 or 9 days from $7,570*

Aug. 10–18, 2023 & July 18–25, 2024†

Discover the rich history and culture of the Baltic Sea region as you cruise to some of northern Europe’s most intriguing cities. Step into the past in the medieval old towns of Tallinn and Visby, and experience the innovative architecture and design of Helsinki. Trace 20th-century history in Gdansk, during an exclusive presentation by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Lech Walesa. Explore the islands of Gotland and Bornholm, and soak up local culture in seaside Klaipeda, Lithuania.

Highlights Include

Helsinki: Discover Helsinki’s renowned architecture and innovative design aesthetic on a city tour that includes Temppeliaukio Church, and meander through Market Square at leisure. Or take the ferry to Suomenlinna Island for a tour of its World Heritage-listed fortress.

Tallinn: Revel in the medieval charms of Tallinn’s World Heritage-listed Old Town. Visit Toompea Castle and the only intact Gothic-style Town Hall in northern Europe. Or delve into Estonia’s 20th-century history at Maarjamäe Palace, where an interactive exhibit traces the hardships of the Communist era.

Riga, Latvia:† Cruise Riga Canal through the heart of this World Heritage site and take a walking tour of the Old Town, including Dome Cathedral. Or take an overview city tour and linger at the cathedral to hear a recital on its 6,700-pipe organ.

Visby: On the Swedish island of Gotland, venture to Visby, a fortified center of the medieval Hanseatic League. Retrace the history of Vikings and merchants at the excellent Gotland Museum and take a walking tour of the picturesque walled old city.

Klaipeda, Lithuania: Stroll among half-timbered houses in seaside Klaipeda and listen to traditional Lithuanian songs. Alternatively, venture to the World Heritage- listed Curonian Spit to explore a fishing village and the legendary Hill of Witches, or travel into the countryside to a family-owned bee farm.

Gdansk, Poland: Meet Polish statesman Lech Walesa to learn firsthand about the Solidarity movement that changed the course of history in eastern Europe. Add a one-night extension in Stockholm.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the 2023 departure are journalist and author Robin Wright and Glenn Kranking, a historian with expertise in Scandinavian studies.

Cruising the Norwegian Fjords

From Bergen to Oslo Aboard the 184-guest Le Champlain A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,835* July 20–27, 2024

Sail into the heart of the Norwegian fjords, discovering extraordinary landscapes of sheer cliffs, snowcapped peaks, jewel-toned lakes, and picturesque villages. See natural wonders from the Jostedal ice cap to precipitous Pulpit Rock, and venture to historic sites from Viking settlements to centuries-old ironworks. Opt for active excursions by electric bike or Nordic walking, and explore local music, art, and cuisine.

Highlights Include

Alesund: Admire Art Nouveau architecture on a city tour, encounter the marine life of the region on an excursion to the Atlantic Ocean Park, or explore this stunning city of islands by electric bike.

Norwegian Fjords and Glaciers: Venture deep into the fjord lands to the spectacular Geirangerfjord, and set out to explore a dramatic landscape of snowcapped mountains, verdant valleys, and glittering lakes. Then encounter continental Europe’s largest ice cap, exploring the edge of a glacier or riding a cable car for a panoramic view of the ice. Stavanger and Lysefjord: Explore Norway’s history at the important Viking site of Ullandhaug and the oil town of Stavanger, hear a recital at the 13th-century Utstein Monastery, or discover Stavanger the Norwegian way—on a guided Nordic walking excursion. Then sail the magnificent Lysefjord along iconic Pulpit Rock, rising nearly 2,000 feet above the water.

Arendal: Explore the fascinating Naes Ironworks Museum to see equipment that dates back to the 1600s and learn about the evolution of iron and steel production. Then visit picturesque Tvedestrand and enjoy free time to meander among the wooden houses of this “international book town.” Or opt to hike along the coast in beautiful Raet National Park.

Gothenburg, Sweden: During a day in Sweden, discover lively Gothenburg on a panoramic tour, and visit either the world-renowned Museum of Fine Art—one of the best in Northern Europe—or the Volvo Museum, where every model since 1927 is on display.

Add a one-night extension in Bergen.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus ranging from 5% to 30%, based on the number of staterooms available at the time of printing. See our website for current pricing and details on the ship and deck plan. Book early for higher savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are archaeologist and geologist Peter Bobrowsky and Terje Leiren, a professor emeritus of Scandinavian studies and history.

Iceland Voyage: Land of Fire and Ice

Round-trip from Reykjavík Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $7,680* Aug. 13–20, 2023 & June 15–22, 2024†

Encounter the geological extremes of Iceland, where glaciers and still-warm lava fields coexist, and emerald mountains give way to bursting geysers and waterfalls. On a voyage that includes some of Iceland’s most remote corners—including the Arctic island of Grimsey—discover spectacular landscapes imbued with mythology, encounter sea birds and whales, and learn about the resilient people who have made their life in these rugged lands.

Highlights Include

Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Arrive at the iconic cone-shaped peak of Kirkjufell and explore this mystical peninsula, from black-pebble beaches to charming villages set amid stunning lava landscapes. Grimsey: Spend an afternoon in the Arctic on Grimsey Island, a birdwatcher’s paradise that straddles the Arctic Circle. Enjoy the often-mild weather to watch for auks, puffins, and more.

Lake Myvatn: Spend a day near cerulean Lake Myvatn, where volcanic activity—both past and current—is seen in the steaming geothermal field of Namaskard, the unique pseudo-craters Skútustaðir, and the surreal lava formations of Dimmuborgir. Another highlight is legendary Godafoss, “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Westfjords: Experience the beauty of this rugged region of mountains and fjords as you explore fishing villages and the town of Isafjördur. Learn about the area’s rich maritime history and fishing traditions at the Heritage Museum and explore the turf-roofed fishing shacks of Osvör Maritime Museum. Or visit the abandoned whaling village of Hesteyri, set on the edge of Hornstrandir Nature Reserve.

Southern Islands: At Heimaey Island, witness one of Iceland’s largest puffin colonies; see Mount Eldfell, with its still-warm lava fields; and view Surtsey, the youngest island in the world. Or observe belugas in a private sanctuary and learn about efforts to protect puffins.

Golden Circle and Reykjavík: Encounter some of Iceland’s most iconic sites: Thingvellir, home of shifting tectonic plates and the world’s first legislative body; the two-tiered waterfall of Gullfoss; and the geothermal landscape of Geysir. Then take in panoramic views of Reykjavík from the viewing deck of the Pearl.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

†The June 2024 itinerary will follow a modified itinerary, featuring the same stops but in a different order. Visit our website for details.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the August 2023 departure are Katryn Wiese, a professor of geology and oceanography, and Elisabeth Ward, an expert in Scandinavian literature.

Adventure in Iceland

11 days from $6,292

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

June 13–23, July 6–16, Aug. 3–13, Oct. 10–20, 2023 & May 21–31, June 13–23, July 4–14, Aug. 1–11, Aug. 24–Sept. 3, Sept. 12–22, Oct. 15–25, 2024

Experience Earth’s incredible power and diversity, exploring fascinating geological phenomena as you make your way from the black-sand beaches of the south to the glacier-covered volcanoes of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Along the way, admire five of the island’s most impressive waterfalls; watch for seabirds or whales; and enjoy free time to soak up the character and charm of cities and towns.

Highlights Include

Dramatic Waterfalls: Encounter Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, each one breathtaking in its own way. See twotiered Gullfoss, and admire Skogafoss and Seljalandsfoss along the southern coast. Witness the thundering cascades of Dettifoss, one of Europe’s most powerful waterfalls, and behold of Godafoss, the “Waterfall of the Gods.”

Lake Myvatn: Venture to the bubbling, steaming, lavacrusted landscapes of Lake Myvatn, discovering massive explosion craters, craggy lava sculptures, popping mud pools, and more. Venture into dramatic canyons in Vatnajoküll National Park and, from Husavik, go whale-watching or take a bird-watching cruise to Puffin Island (depending on the season).

The Snaefellsnes Peninsula: Walk along the shell-sand beach at the abandoned fishing village of Budir, surrounded by a vast lava field. Explore the caves and bizarre basalt rock formations near Arnarstapi, site of thousands of nesting cliff birds. Then stroll the black-pebble beach of Djupalonssandur.

Southern Iceland: At Thingvellir National Park, witness the spot where the world’s oldest Parliament met and walk the rift valley between the North American and European tectonic plates. Watch geysers erupt at Geysir and walk the black-sand beach at Reynisfjara to caves lined with basalt columns. Stop in lovely Vik, and visit the interactive Lava Centre for a close encounter with Iceland’s geological forces. Enjoy time at leisure to explore Reykjavík, or take an optional tour to the Blue Lagoon. The Northern Lights: Iceland is an ideal place to view the aurora borealis. You’ll have the best chance of experiencing this celestial phenomenon on the September or October departures.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Peter Bobrowsky (Aug. 3), Katryn Wiese (July 6), and Pat Dickerson (Oct. 10)–geologists. Steven Williams (June 2023)–physicist, geologist, and former Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum staff.

The Americas

The Smithsonian is known worldwide for excellence in all that they do. This trip was no exception. I will choose them for my next natural history adventure.

– Dan H., Bryce, Zion, and the Grand Canyon

Alaska’s Glaciers and the Inside Passage

A Cruise from Vancouver to Juneau

Aboard the 300-guest Star Breeze

8 days from $4,995 July 13–20, 2023

Join us for an adventure of a lifetime as you experience the magnificent natural wonders and mosaic of cultural traditions of Alaska during our popular small-ship cruise featuring southeast Alaska and the Inside Passage.

Highlights Include

Dramatic Landscapes: Experience the natural wonders of the fabled Inside Passage—one of the most scenic waterways in the world— cruising amidst countless islands, lush forests, secluded bays and coves, sandy beaches, and lofty waterfalls cascading from mountain cliffs inaccessible to larger ships. Explore coastlines near Vancouver to tiny Elfin Cove in the north. Venture through narrow straits and into the heart of Tracy Arm and Endicott Arm, where sheer cliffs rise thousands of feet. Listen to the thunder of large ice calving into the water at South Sawyer Glacier and Dawes Glacier and see their iconic icebergs up close on naturalist-led expeditions.

Wildlife: As nature unfolds before you, take delight in watching hundreds of harbor seals basking on icebergs, a pod of whales feeding off the ship’s bow, and Steller sea lions and sea otters in the water. Look to the sky to see bald eagles soaring overhead, plus myriad other birdlife, including guillemots and Arctic terns. You may even spot brown bears hunting for fish on nearby banks.

Cultural Experiences: In Ketchikan, visit a recreated Native Alaskan village with totem poles and clan houses at Potlatch Totem Park. Sitka is laden with the art and history of its Tlingit culture and 19th-century Russian fur-trading era. Converse with Tlingit artisans in Sitka National Historical Park, where trails are lined with intricately carved totem poles, and watch a master carver during an exclusive demonstration. Marvel at priceless Russian Orthodox icons in the onion-domed St. Michael’s Cathedral. And get up close to eagles, hawks, and falcons at the Alaska Raptor Center.

Port charges are an additional $290 per person. Space reserved for up to 100 Smithsonian Journeys guests. Learn more about the Star Breeze on our website.

Alaska’s Natural Wonders

11 days from $7,897

Includes airfare, taxes, & all fees

July 4–14, Aug. 4–14, Aug. 29–Sept. 8, 2023 & June 4–14, July 9–19, Aug. 6–16, Aug. 25–Sept. 4, 2024

Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Alaska on a journey that combines three of the state’s pristine national parks. Travel deep into Denali National Park and Preserve with local naturalists, discovering the flora and fauna of its wild tundra. Fly by prop plane over jaw-dropping peaks and glaciers to the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Then venture up close to tidewater glaciers and rugged coasts on a wildlife cruise in Kenai Fjords. Encounter a wealth of wildlife, from grizzly bears and moose to Dall sheep and whales; meet puppies in training for the Iditarod race; and in Anchorage, get acquainted with the vibrant Native cultures of Alaska.

Highlights Include

Denali National Park: Travel from Talkeetna to Denali aboard a glass-domed railcar, admiring the spectacular scenery. Then travel deep into the park with an expert ranger, stopping for an easy hike across the alpine tundra and encountering forests, snow-capped mountains, and a wide array of wildlife.

Wrangell-St. Elias National Park: Fly by prop plane from Chitina to historic Kennicott, taking in incredible aerial views of the mountains and glaciers of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Settle deep within this rugged wilderness, and don crampons for a half-day hike out to icefields. Tour the National Historic Landmark of Kennicott, once a bustling copper mine.

Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park: Set out on thrilling day cruise of Kenai Fjords National Park, getting up close views of glaciers and pristine fjords, and spotting plenty of wildlife such as whales, harbor seals, bears, mountain goats, and moose, as well as puffins and other birds.

Anchorage: Delve into the Alaskan experience on a city tour and during visits to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the Anchorage Museum and its Smithsonian Arctic Studies Center, and the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center.

Limited to 24 Smithsonian Journeys guests.

Smithsonian Journeys Experts

Jim Reynolds (July 4)–expert in natural and Earth sciences. John Grabowska (June)–natural history filmmaker. Pat Dickerson (Aug. 4) and Allen Glazner (Aug. 29)–geologists.

A Voyage Along the Great Lakes

From Toronto to Milwaukee Aboard the 184-guest Le Dumont-d’Urville or Le Champlain

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

8 days from $6,980*

Aug. 28–Sept. 4, Oct. 9–16, 2023 & Aug. 28–Sept. 4, Oct. 11–18, 2024

Straddling the shores of the United States and Canada, the Great Lakes are a freshwater treasure trove of wild islands, unusual geology, and legendary waterfalls. Cruise four of the five Great Lakes, discovering a wealth of natural wonders and historic sites and getting to know an intriguing cultural heritage.

Highlights Include

Niagara Falls: Cross Lake Ontario and travel to the Welland Canal, known for its 1,377-foot lock, one of the world’s longest. Enjoy a scenic drive to legendary Niagara Falls, then take a thrilling boat right up to the spray of Horseshoe Falls, the largest of Niagara’s three falls.

Georgian Bay: Navigate the bays, islets, and inlets of “The Ten Thousand Islands” on a local cruise on Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay. Or venture into Killbear Provincial Park, a World Heritage Biosphere Reserve, and discover the beaches, lush forests, and unusual geology.

Manitoulin Island: On the world’s largest freshwater island, learn about the local First Nations traditions at the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation, take part in a cleansing ceremony, and witness a typical pow-wow. Alternatively, hike the Cup and Saucer Trail for sweeping views, or kayak on the Kagawong River and take in views of Bridal Veil Falls.

Sault Ste. Marie: See the spectacular falls at Tahquamenon Falls State Park and trace maritime history at the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. Or experience the engineering marvel of the Soo Locks, explore an authentic freighter at the Valley Camp Museum Ship, and navigate the locks on a local cruise.

Mackinac Island: Tour this timeless island in a horsedrawn carriage, viewing the iconic Grand Hotel and visiting Fort Mackinac, a 19th-century army outpost; then cruise Lake Michigan to Milwaukee.

Add a one-night extension in Toronto.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on the August 2023 departure are geologist and geophysicist Carola Stearns and naturalist and educator David Catlin.

Symphony on the St. Lawrence: From Québec to the Canadian Maritimes

Featuring Boston Pops Conductor Keith Lockhart

From Toronto to Boston Aboard the 184-guest Le Bellot

A cruise offering from Smithsonian Journeys and PONANT

15 days from $13,160*

Oct. 16–30, 2023

Follow the St. Lawrence River through Québec and continue along the Canadian Maritimes, experiencing world-class cities and islands illuminated by fall foliage.

Highlights Include

A Sailing Symphony: Enjoy a program of on-board musical performances—a rare opportunity to attend intimate concerts by celebrated Boston Pops conductor Keith Lockhart and six talented musicians.

Montréal and Québec City: Soak up the Old World ambiance in Montréal and Québec City. Set out on guided walking tours of the historic city centers and tailor your visits with a choice of excursions.

Whale-watching: Go whale-watching in the rich waters off Tadoussac, which are known to draw more than a dozen species, including humpbacks and blue whales.

Canadian Maritimes: Trace the history of Canada—and the tale of Anne of Green Gables—amid the landscapes of Prince Edward Island, and get acquainted with Frenchderived Acadian culture on remote Îles de la Madeleine.

Nova Scotia: Delve into the life and inventions of Alexander Graham Bell at his historic home in Baddeck; recall battles between the French and the British at the Fortress of Louisbourg; and spend a day in lovely Lunenburg, a World Heritage site.

Eastport, Maine: Explore the quaint shops and colorful galleries of historic Eastport. Visit the Tides Institute & Museum of Art and chat with an artist-in-residence, or admire fall foliage on a scenic hike at Shackford Head State Park.

Add a one-night extension in Toronto.

*Pricing reflects a savings bonus, ranging from 5% to 30% based on availability at the time this catalog was printed. See our website for current pricing. Book early for the highest savings.

The Smithsonian Journeys/PONANT Experience

Each cruise will feature two Smithsonian Journeys Experts and an included excursion or activity in each port of call. Our experts on this cruise are Conductor of the Boston Pops Keith Lockhart and Eric Roorda, a historian with expertise in maritime studies.