highplanesdrifters

Well.....my TA grabbed a cabin on the Raja Ampat cruise. They came back with a price $10k more than what was posted on the website, approximately 20% more. Even though there was only one cabin in the category they said they could because of the wording, "From AU$38k". Didn't have a good feeling after that so we canceled. Did have the TA check to make sure it wasn't some AU vs. US pricing. They said pricing the same for all markets. Anyone else have this issue? Now looking at Aqua Expeditions.

Thanks all! Your comments and advice were a big help. We are booked for Japan April 2025. Prestige Suite on the first leg, Grand Deluxe on second. Now just need to decide what to do before or after.😄

Congrats on the flights. It is such a challenge lately and has become as important as finding the right cruise. Fingers crossed for some great Northern Light CME explosions. We're at solar max this year so good chance. And more importantly hope eruptions stay away from KEF.

It begs the question, How did they get up there? I guess the Orcas will have trouble tipping this iceberg. Thanks. Hoping we'll get to see this amazing site in a few weeks.

Thanks. It looked like that on deck plans. Always nice to hear from someone with firsthand experience.

NZ? Time is flying by. It seems like you just left.

Quick question. As per your excellent suggestions, ditching the 6th floor. Any spots on the 5th floor to avoid?

You're ahead of the curve. I hear it's all the rage.

Hope the Sacred Lake was worth the ride!

Great Intel, thanks. Heading back in 2025 and was just poking around. Afternoon flight sounds perfect. I know exactly what you're saying about the overnight flight. Very disruptive sleep wise. Arriving in decent shape is becoming more of an issue as the years tick by.😁

Wow! Thank you. I wonder why I'm not getting this email. Hmmmm. I've been looking for something that does Raja Ampat and the Whale sharks. Almost pulled the trigger on Aqua Expeditions. They dont have balconies. Interesting partnership. I know Ponant have offered trips on their famous planes. My partner once did a private tour of Paspaley Pearl farm on it. Great experience.

Excellent report, thanks!

Glad you enjoyed. It really is different, perhaps the Kava. Some might say bringing a bottle of Gin onboard is Coals to Newcastle! One of my fondest memories of that trip was sitting out on our balcony sipping a Blue Turtle and Tonic watching the stars. After more than a few, our butler popped his head out and asked if we wanted some dinner. And that he had brought more lemons, limes and Tonic. We were pampered.

Weeeeee

I suspect the last thing you are thinking about is a Gin and Tonic. But should the occasion arise, treat yourself to a bottle of Blue Turtle Gin. Be well M.

That scene looks heavenly. So happy we got the GDS for the second leg.

Sounds like you had your own little water park. Did they charge extra for that? 😃 From videos it looks like it takes up a bit of room on the deck. Did you feel that way?

Many thanks, @jpalbny @Becky2010 and @AussieBoyTX. Very helpful intel. TA is in the process of booking . She reports that Ponant staff have been helpful and attentive. For the first 7 night leg we are grabbing a Prestige Suite. Although I prefer the larger single suite concept, two bathrooms won. It's only 7 nights and it will be nice to get a feel for the suite. We will ask for a tour of the other suites if possible. Unlike the first leg, the good news is the Grand Deluxe was available for the second 11 night leg. Yipeee! We have requested the GDS for the first leg if it becomes available. The Owners suite with the Jacuzzi was $47,000 more than what we have chosen. The 25% Ponant Bonus does not apply. No wonder it was available. Our TA has offered to get us a blow up kiddie pool so we dont feel slighted.😁 We have had Ponant on the radar for quite awhile and are so pleased to finally slip this trip in. It is due in no small part the help from all the Ponant posters! JP - can't wait for the Le CC report!

First, a BIG thank you to all the Ponant posters for great trip ideas, solid advice and information. The status match advice was megga. I'm getting ready to book our first Ponant on Le Jacques-Cartier. The price difference between Prestige Deck 5 & 6 is a bit. Besides the obvious higher floor, is there something more to justify the price difference. I'm also surprised that the Privilege is priced more than the Prestige. I guess it does get a butler and a deeper balcony, but the Prestige has 2 bathrooms and is larger. Will someone wave their magic wand so I can book the Owners Suite? Any advice or comments much appreciated. Thanks!

Say it isn't so. Get well soon .

It's not so easy from the U.S. either! But I will say the Flight Ease folks were helpful. First time using them. We'll see how it all pans out.

Did they have any interesting tours? I remember not doing much when we were there.

Oh heck ya! Happy Anniversary. And Genepy is a new one for me. Thanks for the info.

The naked and famous is an IBA official cocktail, consisting of equal parts mezcal, yellow Chartreuse, Aperol, and fresh lime juice. Sounds delicious! I think I'd be infamous after a few of those.😀 And in case you're wondering. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_IBA_official_cocktails Miss M - thanks for another diversion.

While it can be, do not assume this! Rough seas can and do appear at any time.