Explore the world with PONANT,
the world leader of luxury expeditions
For more than 30 years now, our luxury cruise ships have been stopping at famous, well-
known ports of call and secret, hidden-away anchorages accessible only to small ships. The
world’s number one polar cruise operator, we offer a range of discovery expeditions to the
majestic landscapes of the Far North and the Arctic, sunny excursions to the heart of the
Mediterranean, sea voyages along Celtic coasts and beautiful getaways to the secret islands
of the Pacific.
Sailing onboard the youngest and most modern luxury small fleet in the world, PONANT’s
signature is a unique combination of curated itineraries, luxurious amenities and
personalised service. From Antarctica to Australia’s Kimberley coast, our exceptional
voyages have been designed and conceived to deliver quality and excellence through an
unprecedented sailing experience founded on the key concepts of discretion, refinement,
and the simple art of living à la française.
Explore the world with PONANT, the world leader of luxury expeditions
For more than 30 years now, our luxury cruise ships have been stopping at famous, well-known ports of call and secret, hidden-away anchorages accessible only to small ships. The world’s number one polar cruise operator, we offer a range of discovery expeditions to the majestic landscapes of the Far North and the Arctic, sunny excursions to the heart of the Mediterranean, sea voyages along Celtic coasts and beautiful getaways to the secret islands of the Pacific.
Sailing onboard the youngest and most modern luxury small fleet in the world, PONANT’s signature is a unique combination of curated itineraries, luxurious amenities and personalised service. From Antarctica to Australia’s Kimberley coast, our exceptional voyages have been designed and conceived to deliver quality and excellence through an unprecedented sailing experience founded on the key concepts of discretion, refinement,
and the simple art of living à la française.
Discover exceptional destinations
From the ice of Antarctica to the lagoons of the Pacific, from Caribbean coves to Asian shores,
PONANT has been sailing all the seas of the world for thirty years. Our experts create carefully chosen
and designed itineraries for you, enabling you to access the treasures of the world via the sea.
Discover exceptional destinations
From the ice of Antarctica to the lagoons of the Pacific, from Caribbean coves to Asian shores, PONANT has been sailing all the seas of the world for thirty years. Our experts create carefully chosen and designed itineraries for you, enabling you to access the treasures of the world via the sea.
Feel like you're sailing on a private yacht
The PONANT ships are deliberately designed to welcome aboard a limited number of guests: there are 92 Staterooms
on our new PONANT EXPLORERS, 132 Staterooms on L’Austral, Le Boréal and Le Soléal, and 122 Staterooms on Le Lyrial.
This philosophy, a far cry from the current industry trend towards gigantism, gives our small ships a human dimension
and unique atmosphere. Furthermore, it allows them to access less crowded ports
of call, explore remote locations and provide our guests with a genuine aura of exclusivity - always, of course, imbued
with PONANT's attentive and personalised service.
Feel like you're sailing on a private yacht
The PONANT ships are deliberately designed to welcome aboard a limited number of guests: there are 92 Staterooms on our new PONANT EXPLORERS, 132 Staterooms on L’Austral, Le Boréal and Le Soléal, and 122 Staterooms on Le Lyrial.
This philosophy, a far cry from the current industry trend towards gigantism, gives our small ships a human dimension and unique atmosphere. Furthermore, it allows them to access less crowded ports
of call, explore remote locations and provide our guests with a genuine aura of exclusivity - always, of course, imbued with PONANT's attentive and personalised service.
OUR DESTINATIONS
Embark on a unique and enriching sailing adventure aboard intimate modern ships, offering exceptional itineraries and stops in remote places not accessible by larger ships. Visit amazing sites combining dreams, immersive experiences, and encounters that bring you even closer to nature.
Accompanied by experienced guides, lecturers or an Expedition team, time ashore is maximised, with many voyages featuring UNESCO-listed sites and excursions. On Polar and Tropical Expeditions our fleet of Zodiacs® make landing ashore in remote, seldom visited destinations, safe and enjoyable, enabling guests to get right into the heart of destinations.
Unexpected outings among the majestic glaciers in Antarctica, exciting wildlife encounters in the Arctic and Alaska, memorable cultural interactions in Oceania, historic sites in the Mediterranean or relaxing on idyllic beaches in the Caribbean…with more than 400 expertly created voyages to choose from, you are sure to find a PONANT cruise to suit your travel desires.
OUR FLEET
OUR LUXURY POLAR EXPLORATION VESSEL
Le Commandant-Charcot (delivered in 2021)
Enjoy a unique sailing experience in the Arctic or Antarctic aboard this exceptional polar exploration vessel flying the French flag. Discover totally new itineraries, while enjoying conditions of unprecedented luxury and comfort, specially developed for you by leading international polar expedition designers.
OUR PONANT EXPLORERS
Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Jacques Cartier & Le Bellot
Featuring only 92 staterooms each, our new PONANT EXPLORERS are specially designed for exploration. Human-scaled, cutting edge design technology, these new ships are true to the PONANT philosophy and give you close access to the heart of exceptional destinations, letting you experience Tropical and Polar expeditions in luxurious comfort. You’ll also have the chance to discover a world’s first on board: the underwater multi-sensory observation lounge, “Blue Eye”.
OUR SISTERSHIPS
Le Boréal, L’Austral, Le Soléal & Le Lyrial
Our sisterships feature 122 to 132 staterooms and suites and embody the PONANT philosophy: small capacity, unique atmosphere and a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy and well-being. Launched between 2010 and 2015, our four sisterships are some of the most modern in the world.
OUR FLAGSHIP SAIL YACHT
Le Ponant
Our three-masted ship Le Ponant will leave you feeling as though you are travelling on your very own private yacht. You will be joined on board by a small group of like-minded passengers, made out of true ocean lovers and traditional sailing navigators. Focusing on small-group and immersive sailing experiences on the open sea, discover a truly unique way to travel.
Facilities
Facilities enjoyed aboard include:
- Lobby, Concierge, Reception & Excursion Desks;
- 2 Restaurants: Gastronomic & Grill;
- Open-Air Bar, Pool & Sun Deck;
- 2 lounges: Main & Observatory;
- World-first multi-sensory underwater lounge on PONANT’s new Explorers ships, Blue Eye
- Theatre to enjoy entertainment, lectures & presentations;
- Fitness Room & Beauty Corner (Gym, Massage Room, Hairdresser & Hammam/Balneo).
- Ocean View spa on Explorers ships;
- Medical Centre & onboard Doctor;
- Boutique, Photoshop, Internet Space & Library;
- Marina for direct access to Zodiacs® & water activities.
Le Ponant three-mastered ship has a different layout. Visit asia.ponant.com for details.
PONANT & NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Expeditions
For all those who love exploration, adventure, discovery, untouched nature and unique encounters far beyond the boundaries of normal travel. PONANT and NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC have joined forces and combined their expertise to offer unique and enriching expedition cruises. Our itineraries cover the furthest corners of the world, far from the usual tourist bubbles.
A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER
See your surroundings through the lens of a National Geographic photographer who will share with you tips and tricks on capturing those once-in-a-lifetime travel moments. Take part in a comprehensive photography programme, available on each departure. Including lectures, workshops and tuition from world class National Geographic photographers.
A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPERT
Learn from a National Geographic expert who will share their knowledge, passion and rare behind-the-scenes perspective on your destination. A National Geographic expert specialises in topics ranging from anthropology to history to marine biology and will enrich your experience with lectures and informal discussions.
OUR DESTINATIONS
Embark on a unique and enriching sailing adventure aboard intimate modern ships, offering exceptional itineraries and stops in remote places not accessible by larger ships. Visit amazing sites combining dreams, immersive experiences, and encounters that bring you even closer to nature.
Accompanied by experienced guides, lecturers or an Expedition team, time ashore is maximised, with many voyages featuring UNESCO-listed sites and excursions. On Polar and Tropical Expeditions our fleet of Zodiacs® make landing ashore in remote, seldom visited destinations, safe and enjoyable, enabling guests to get right into the heart of destinations.
Unexpected outings among the majestic glaciers in Antarctica, exciting wildlife encounters in the Arctic and Alaska, memorable cultural interactions in Oceania, historic sites in the Mediterranean or relaxing on idyllic beaches in the Caribbean…with more than 400 expertly created voyages to choose from, you are sure to find a PONANT cruise to suit your travel desires.
OUR FLEET
OUR LUXURY POLAR EXPLORATION VESSEL
Le Commandant-Charcot (delivered in 2021)
Enjoy a unique sailing experience in the Arctic or Antarctic aboard this exceptional polar exploration vessel flying the French flag. Discover totally new itineraries, while enjoying conditions of unprecedented luxury and comfort, specially developed for you by leading international polar expedition designers.
OUR PONANT EXPLORERS
Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Jacques Cartier & Le Bellot
Featuring only 92 staterooms each, our new PONANT EXPLORERS are specially designed for exploration. Human-scaled, cutting edge design technology, these new ships are true to the PONANT philosophy and give you close access to the heart of exceptional destinations, letting you experience Tropical and Polar expeditions in luxurious comfort. You’ll also have the chance to discover a world’s first on board: the underwater multi-sensory observation lounge, “Blue Eye”.
OUR SISTERSHIP
Le Boréal, L’Austral, Le Soléal & Le Lyrial
Our sisterships feature 122 to 132 staterooms and suites and embody the PONANT philosophy: small capacity, unique atmosphere and a subtle blend of luxury, intimacy and well-being. Launched between 2010 and 2015, our four sisterships are some of the most modern in the world.
OUR FLAGSHIP SAIL YACHT
Le Ponant
Our three-masted ship Le Ponant will leave you feeling as though you are travelling on your very own private yacht. You will be joined on board by a small group of like-minded passengers, made out of true ocean lovers and traditional sailing navigators. Focusing on small-group and immersive sailing experiences on the open sea, discover a truly unique way to travel.
Facilities
Facilities enjoyed aboard include:
- Lobby, Concierge, Reception & Excursion Desks;
- 2 Restaurants: Gastronomic & Grill;
- Open-Air Bar, Pool & Sun Deck;
- 2 lounges: Main & Observatory;
- World-first multi-sensory underwater lounge on PONANT’s new Explorers ships, Blue Eye
- Theatre to enjoy entertainment, lectures & presentations;
- Fitness Room & Beauty Corner (Gym, Massage Room, Hairdresser & Hammam/Balneo).
- Ocean View spa on Explorers ships;
- Medical Centre & onboard Doctor;
- Boutique, Photoshop, Internet Space & Library;
- Marina for direct access to Zodiacs® & water activities.
Le Ponant three-mastered ship has a different layout. Visit asia.ponant.com for details.
PONANT & NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Expeditions
For all those who love exploration, adventure, discovery, untouched nature and unique encounters far beyond the boundaries of normal travel. PONANT and NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC have joined forces and combined their expertise to offer unique and enriching expedition cruises. Our itineraries cover the furthest corners of the world, far from the usual tourist bubbles.
A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTOGRAPHER
See your surroundings through the lens of a National Geographic photographer who will share with you tips and tricks on capturing those once-in-a-lifetime travel moments. Take part in a comprehensive photography programme, available on each departure. Including lectures, workshops and tuition from world class National Geographic photographers.
A NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC EXPERT
Learn from a National Geographic expert who will share their knowledge, passion and rare behind-the-scenes perspective on your destination. A National Geographic expert specialises in topics ranging from anthropology to history to marine biology and will enrich your experience with lectures and informal discussions.
THE FRENCH TOUCH
PONANT is currently the only cruise line to sail under the French flag and, as such, is subject to some of the world’s strictest safety standards. Our officers are French and our highly approachable and attentive crew members communicate in French and English. Aboard, you will feel this "French Touch" in the design and décor, but also in the service and gastronomy. Our carefully selected partners share this pursuit for the French standard of excellence.
THE FRENCH TOUCH
PONANT is currently the only cruise line to sail under the French flag and, as such, is subject to some of the world’s strictest safety standards. Our officers are French and our highly approachable and attentive crew members communicate in French and English. Aboard, you will feel this "French Touch" in the design and décor, but also in the service and gastronomy. Our carefully selected partners share this pursuit for the French standard of excellence.
Accommodation
Whether you choose a Mediterranean cruise or a voyage into the heart of the Antarctic ice floes, you will always enjoy the exceptional levels of service for which PONANT is renowned. Our excellent service, customised and attentive, will give you the privileged feeling of sailing aboard your own private yacht.
The PONANT fleet is comprised of 12 small luxury expedition ships and 1 three-mastered sailing ship. These smaller-capacity ships boast 32 to 132 staterooms and spacious suites, 95% with private balcony (all cabins on PONANT EXPLORER ships have a balcony while no balcony is available on Le Ponant three-mastered ship). Offering French-designed interiors and ambiance, guests can enjoy luxury amenities, superior comfort and personalised service – the feeling of being on board one’s own personal yacht. Free 24-hour room service is offered with a laundry service available at an additional cost.
In 2021 we will welcome Le Commandant Charcot the first electric hybrid cruise ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). With just 135 cabins, including 68 suites with private balconies, this ship remains true to the PONANT philosophy of providing every guest with a relaxed ambience never-before seen at the very top or bottom of the globe, and offering guests true polar odysseys.
Gastronomy & Wine
An essential element of French culture, gastronomy is naturally high on the agenda aboard PONANT ships. Fresh products, carefully selected ingredients, exquisite dishes: prepared by our talented French Chefs and accompanied by a selection of wine presented by expert sommeliers. Guests have the choice of two restaurants, the Gastronomic Restaurant or the Grill Restaurant. An Open Bar is included (premium alcoholic drinks excluded) as well as free 24-hour room service for those wishing to dine in the privacy of their stateroom.
Accommodation
Whether you choose a Mediterranean cruise or a voyage into the heart of the Antarctic ice floes, you will always enjoy the exceptional levels of service for which PONANT is renowned. Our excellent service, customised and attentive, will give you the privileged feeling of sailing aboard your own private yacht.
The PONANT fleet is comprised of 12 small luxury expedition ships and 1 three-mastered sailing ship. These smaller-capacity ships boast 32 to 132 staterooms and spacious suites, 95% with private balcony (all cabins on PONANT EXPLORER ships have a balcony while no balcony is available on Le Ponant three-mastered ship). Offering French-designed interiors and ambiance, guests can enjoy luxury amenities, superior comfort and personalised service – the feeling of being on board one’s own personal yacht. Free 24-hour room service is offered with a laundry service available at an additional cost.
In 2021 we will welcome Le Commandant Charcot the first electric hybrid cruise ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). With just 135 cabins, including 68 suites with private balconies, this ship remains true to the PONANT philosophy of providing every guest with a relaxed ambience never-before seen at the very top or bottom of the globe, and offering guests true polar odysseys.
Gastronomy & Wine
An essential element of French culture, gastronomy is naturally high on the agenda aboard PONANT ships. Fresh products, carefully selected ingredients, exquisite dishes: prepared by our talented French Chefs and accompanied by a selection of wine presented by expert sommeliers. Guests have the choice of two restaurants, the Gastronomic Restaurant or the Grill Restaurant. An Open Bar is included (premium alcoholic drinks excluded) as well as free 24-hour room service for those wishing to dine in the privacy of their stateroom.
THEMES & PARTNERSHIPS
THEMES & PARTNERSHIPS
THEMED CRUISES
Every season, PONANT offers a number of themed cruises to let you combine your passions with your love for travel.
Music : opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts ashore or onboard… Our guests of honour, talented and renowned artists, perform their repertoire for you. In small groups, enjoy the enchanted experience of a PONANT musical cruise alongside these virtuosos.
Wine and gastronomy : great chefs and sommeliers, among the best in the world, create sophisticated menus and wine and food pairings for our guests. They will surprise you with unique and exceptional culinary and wine-tasting experiences.
Art and literature : iconic museums and curators, a prestigious Auction house, writers, novelists, stars of theatre and film… You will share wonderful interactions with these talented experts, artists and personalities that are specialists in their field. During a series of ports of call, lecturers and experts will showcase the riches of the subjects proposed. Depending on the itineraries and themes tackled, private visits to museums and special locations may also be organised or requested.
THEMED CRUISES
Every season, PONANT offers a number of themed cruises to let you combine your passions with your love for travel.
Music : opera, jazz, piano recitals, concerts ashore or onboard… Our guests of honour, talented and renowned artists, perform their repertoire for you. In small groups, enjoy the enchanted experience of a PONANT musical cruise alongside these virtuosos.
Wine and gastronomy : great chefs and sommeliers, among the best in the world, create sophisticated menus and wine and food pairings for our guests. They will surprise you with unique and exceptional culinary and wine-tasting experiences.
Art and literature : iconic museums and curators, a prestigious Auction house, writers, novelists, stars of theatre and film… You will share wonderful interactions with these talented experts, artists and personalities that are specialists in their field. During a series of ports of call, lecturers and experts will showcase the riches of the subjects proposed. Depending on the itineraries and themes tackled, private visits to museums and special locations may also be organised or requested.
OUR TEAM
‘Welcome to PONANT, World Leader of Luxury Expeditions.
I invite you to get in touch with our team below or visit
our website to discover even more about our small-ship
luxury experiences and itineraries, curated for the
discerning traveller!’
Monique PONFOORT
Vice President - Asia Pacific
For information contact PONANT or visit asia.ponant.com
OUR TEAM
‘Welcome to PONANT, World Leader of Luxury Expeditions. I invite you to get in touch with our team below or visit our website to discover even more about our small-ship luxury experiences and itineraries, curated for the discerning traveller!’
Monique PONFOORT
Vice President - Asia Pacific
For information contact PONANT or visit asia.ponant.com