Resulting from an unprecedented partnership between PONANT and the Paris Opera, discover this exceptional cruise in 2024 with 6 dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet, among which Etoiles Valentine Colasante and Mathieu Ganio. An opportunity to let dance shine beyond theatreland, for the delight of PONANT passengers.

Athens, Venice, Corfu, Dubrovnik… From 1^st to 8 August 2024, 6 artists of worldwide tremendous talent will be on board L’Austral. An exceptional programme will feature stage performances both on board and on land, dance conferences and introductory classical ballet classes: whether you are an enlightened fan of classical dance or a novice, you will be able to enjoy this unique experience in your own way.

“What the Paris Opera Ballet and PONANT have in common is that both are driven by an all-consuming desire to share, to be open to others and to the world. Through this partnership, they are offering travellers an opportunity to discover the Opera’s classical and contemporary dance treasures and to exchange views. This odyssey will, I’m sure, inspire the six dancers as they perform against a backdrop of theatrical Greek and Croatian landscapes,” says Alexandre Neef, Director General of the Paris Opera.

This new PONANT partnership, which is as exclusive as it is exceptional, comes to reinforce an enrichment programme of unrivalled quality on the market. “We are delighted and proud of the confidence and trust placed in us by the Paris Opera in forging this partnership. Dance has the power to unite, transport and invite people to share. It is the essence of PONANT’s Explore to Inspire philosophy. It is also in the spirit of the new collection of themes, Travel is an Art, for voyages ever richer in meaning and inspiration; and truly unforgettable moments,” enthuses Hervé Gastinel, CEO of PONANT

The Paris Opera has worked closely with PONANT in designing this one-of-a kind programme. Aboard L’Austral, the Etoiles and dancers of the Paris Opera Ballet will take part in two special meetings with guests to reflect on their careers and what drives them. Two screenings of performances and excerpts from documentaries on dance, followed by a discussion, will also be organised. PONANT and the Paris Opera Ballet have also imagined two “danced lectures” involving rehearsing a pas de deux in front of an audience, a wonderful invitation to find out what goes on behind the curtain when preparing a ballet. To complete this immersive experience, travellers will have the opportunity to take part in an introductory classical ballet class with a dance teacher from the Paris Opera, yet another opportunity to enjoy privileged exchanges with the world of dance.

There is no question of ports of call serving as intermissions! On the contrary, the dancers will hold two exceptional performances with extracts of the great classical and contemporary ballets in the Municipality Theatre of Corfu on 3 August 2024 and the Dubrovnik Theatre Marin Držić on 5 August 2024.

From the City of the Gods to the City of the Doges with the Paris Opera Ballet

Athens – Venice, on L’Austral. 1^st to 8 August 2024, 8 days – 7 nights.
From €3,920