Day 1 - Manila, Philippines (Embarkation)
Embarkation is from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and the ship sets sail at 6:30 PM.

At first glance, the Philippine capital is a modern Asian megacity, its glassy skyscrapers lining the waterfront. Wander the cobbled lanes of Intramuros, though, and a very different Manila appears, one full of old world charm. Rizal Park offers 150 acres of green space for a quiet moment away from the city’s energy, and a stroll along Roxas Boulevard, the city’s beloved seaside promenade, is the perfect way to see Manila from another angle before we board Le Jacques Cartier and set sail at sunset.

Day 2 - Hundred Islands National Park, Philippines
Arrival midday, departure late afternoon.

Protected since 1940, Hundred Islands National Park gathers 124 tropical islands and islets across the crystal clear waters of the Lingayen Gulf. It is one of the most iconic natural sites in the Philippines, with white sand beaches, lush vegetation, limestone cliffs and coral reefs teeming with marine life. A true paradise for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Day 3 - Currimao, Philippines
Arrival early morning, departure late afternoon.

This small coastal town in Ilocos Norte is our gateway to Vigan, a former Chinese trading port and one of the best preserved Spanish colonial towns in Asia. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vigan blends architectural influences in a way you won’t find anywhere else, from the baroque Cathedral of Saint Paul to the stone houses lining Calle Crisologo. Stepping onto its streets feels like a journey back in time.

Day 4 - Claveria, Philippines
Arrival early morning, departure late afternoon.

Tucked away in the province of Cagayan, Claveria is a hidden gem where daily life still revolves around fishing and rice farming. Watch the fishermen bring in their catch and get a feel for the traditions of this welcoming community of about 32,000 people. The scenic drive up Sentinella Hill rewards you with sweeping views of the mountains and coastline, and at Santa Maria Chapel, local children with guitars and dancers set the rhythm for a relaxed, idyllic day.

Day 5 - Batanes, Philippines
Arrival early morning, departure late afternoon.

At the northern tip of the Philippines, the remote Batanes islands reveal landscapes of striking beauty: wind swept cliffs, rolling green hills and a sense of peace that few places still offer. From Basco and its iconic lighthouse, flower lined roads lead to the villages of the Ivatan people, whose stone houses were built to withstand typhoons. This is one of the least known and most unspoiled corners of the country.

Day 6 - Hualien, Taiwan
Arrival late morning, departure evening.

Portuguese sailors called Taiwan “the beautiful island,” and with 70 percent of it covered in lush subtropical forest, it is easy to see why. Hualien is the gateway to Taroko Gorge, a natural masterpiece carved by the Liwu River, with marble cliffs rising nearly 4,000 feet. Highlights include the Eternal Spring Shrine, a cluster of small temples clinging to the mountainside above a shimmering waterfall, and the Tunnel of Nine Turns, where the gorge winds through deep canyons for miles.

Day 7 - Keelung, Taiwan
Arrival early morning, departure evening.

On Taiwan’s northeast tip, the harbor city of Keelung sits along one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of coast. Nearby Yehliu Geopark is famous for its otherworldly rock formations, and trails through the green hills above the harbor, from Chung Cheng Park to Fort Ershawan, offer superb views of the city and coastline. Save room for the Miaokou Night Market, where you can sample some of Taiwan’s most beloved street food.

Day 8 - Fun Day at Sea!
A day to slow down and enjoy everything Le Jacques Cartier has to offer. Book a treatment at the spa, visit the fitness center, or relax by the pool. Enjoy onboard talks and entertainment, browse the boutique, or head to the upper deck to take in the open ocean and watch for marine life.

Day 9 - Naha (Okinawa), Japan
Arrival early morning, departure late afternoon.

Naha, the capital of Okinawa Prefecture, has a lively, welcoming atmosphere, especially along Kokusai Dori, known as “International Street.” Don’t miss the colorful Makishi Public Market, nicknamed “Naha’s kitchen,” overflowing with fresh fish, Okinawan specialties and local spices, with plenty of delicacies cooked right on the spot.

Day 10 - Motobu (Okinawa), Japan
Arrival early morning, departure early afternoon.

On the northern end of Okinawa, between turquoise sea and green hills, Motobu is a place made for slowing down. With Mount Yae as its backdrop, it reveals white sand beaches and villages where time seems to move at its own pace. Okinawa is one of the world’s famous Blue Zones, and here you will meet local “keepers of memory” who preserve the island’s history and traditions. Explore the ruins of Nakijin Castle, then walk through the historic Bise district and its beautiful tunnels of fukugi trees.

Day 11 - Miyanoura (Yakushima), Japan
Arrival midday, departure late afternoon.

Yakushima is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most remarkable natural treasures. Misty mountains, lush forests and wild coastline are home to ancient cedar trees, some thousands of years old, said to have inspired the dreamlike landscapes of the film Princess Mononoke. The spectacular Senpiro Falls, tumbling down an immense granite face, is a highlight, and the island’s craftspeople carry on traditions closely tied to this extraordinary environment.

Day 12 - Uwajima, Japan
Arrival midday, departure early evening.

On the west coast of Shikoku, Uwajima is a delight for anyone who loves history and tradition. Uwajima Castle, built in the 17th century by the powerful Date clan, is one of only a dozen original castles remaining in Japan, set among beautiful gardens. Be sure to try jakoten, a local specialty of fried fish cake.

Day 13 - Kochi, Japan
Arrival early morning, departure midday.

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands and the best preserved, with forests and ocean as far as the eye can see. On its southern coast, the relaxed city of Kochi welcomes you with lively streets, great restaurants and its famous katsuo tataki, lightly seared bonito. Beneath the watchful presence of Kochi Castle, you can explore Katsurahama Beach, local museums and Buddhist temples along one of Japan’s most famous pilgrimage routes.

Day 14 - Yaizu, Japan
Arrival midday, departure late afternoon.

In Shizuoka Prefecture, Yaizu is one of Japan’s most important fishing ports, and its lively waterfront is full of local tradition and craftsmanship. The town is renowned for producing katsuobushi, the dried bonito flakes essential to Japanese cooking. Just beyond, the region shows a quieter side, with the lush green tea plantations of Shizuoka rolling across the surrounding hills.

Day 15 - Tokyo, Japan (Disembarkation)
The ship arrives overnight and guests will disembark at 8:00 AM.

Tokyo is one of the largest and most dynamic cities in the world. Its 23 wards each have their own personality, from high tech Akihabara and the historic streets of Asakusa to the nightlife of Shinjuku and the trendy boutiques of Harajuku. Add in one of the world’s great food scenes, and Tokyo is a fitting finale to an unforgettable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I schedule my flights?
Arrival: You should schedule your flights to arrive to Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila (MNL) on or before February 26, 2028. Embarkation is from 4:00pm to 5:00pm, and the ship sets sail at 6:30pm.

Departures: Guests may disembark on March 11, 2028 at 8:00am in Tokyo. You should schedule your flight to depart from Tokyo International Airport (HND) on March 11, 2028 at 12:00pm or later.

What are the passport and visa requirements?
All guests should ensure their passports are valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond the end of this trip.
Entry visas are not required for US Citizens visiting Philippines, Taiwan and Japan for tourism stays of less than 30 days. Citizens of other countries should check with their home country consulate or embassy for entry requirements.

What weather can I expect from this trip?
This voyage spans a wide range of climates. In late February, the Philippines is warm and mostly dry, with highs in the upper 80’s and lows in the mid 70’s Fahrenheit. Taiwan and Okinawa are milder, with highs in the upper 60’s to low 70’s. By early March in mainland Japan (Shikoku, Yaizu and Tokyo), expect cool spring weather with highs in the mid 50’s to around 60 and lows in the 40’s. Showers are possible throughout, so pack layers, a light rain jacket and a warmer jacket for the Japan portion of the trip.

What arrival and departure transfers are included?
Arrival: Arrival transfers are provided for flight arrivals, from Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila (MNL) to the ship, or to your independently booked pre-cruise hotel. If you book a pre-cruise hotel the transfer will be provided to that hotel. The further transfer to the ship will need to be arranged independently at your own expense.
Departure: Departure transfers are provided from the ship to Tokyo International Airport (HND) or a local hotel after which no further transfers will be provided.

What if I have dietary requirements?
We will make every effort to accommodate special dietary requests. Please inform our office at least 45 days prior to departure of these requests.

Is there a dress code?
You are on vacation, so the last thing we want to impose is a dress code. Be as dressed up or down as you see fit as long as you’re comfortable. However, when dining in the ship’s main dining room, long pants and a shirt or collared T shirt are required. Be sure to dress appropriately for changeable weather.

Are excursions included?
Yes, generally one excursion per port is included as part of the cruise fare.