You Love All Things French and Have an Adventurous Spirit
Yes, if you’re passionate about French culture and cuisine and have an adventurous spirit, Ponant offers the perfect blend of elegance and exploration. Founded in 1988 by a group of French sailors, Ponant has long been a leader in luxury yacht cruising, and in recent years has expanded into small-ship expedition cruising, bringing guests on thrilling polar journeys. The 245-guest luxury icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot—launched in 2021—takes guests to some of the most remote places on Earth, including the North Pole, all while indulging in Champagne and gourmet dishes crafted by world-renowned Chef Alain Ducasse.
Owned by: Artemis, the holding company of the Pinault family.
Ships: Ponant’s fleet of 12 ships includes the pioneering Le Commandant Charcot, six Ponant Explorers (each with 184 guests and a unique Blue Eye underwater observation lounge), four Sister Ships (designed for global cruising with capacities between 244 to 264 guests), and the original sailing ship Le Ponant, which carries just 32 guests after a recent refurbishment. Ponant also owns the Paul Gauguin, a 330-guest ship exclusively sailing Tahiti and the South Pacific.
Ambiance: Ponant ships embody modern French minimalism at its finest. Yes, with their sleek, airy white-on-white décor, accented by calming shades of blue, the ambiance onboard is tranquil and refined, perfect for relaxation and intimate conversations. On expedition itineraries, however, there’s a distinct buzz of excitement as guests prepare for or return from Zodiac landings in breathtaking, remote locations.
Dining & Entertainment: French gastronomy is a core element of the Ponant experience, where the art of living is celebrated through exquisite culinary offerings. Yes, Ponant has partnered with Ducasse Conseil, led by renowned Chef Alain Ducasse, to ensure exceptional standards in every dish. Each ship features a Gastro Restaurant and a Grill Restaurant, while Le Commandant Charcot boasts Le Nuna, Ducasse’s first restaurant at sea. Even on expedition voyages, you’ll be treated to lively evening entertainment, including production shows, vocalists, and pianists. However, Ponant ships do not have casinos, keeping the focus on sophisticated and cultural experiences.
Accommodations: Ponant offers a range of elegant accommodations, from 204-square-foot Deluxe Staterooms on the Ponant Explorers to the expansive 1,200-square-foot Owner’s Suite on Le Commandant Charcot. Yes, each stateroom offers refined comfort, making your onboard stay as luxurious as the destinations you visit.
Fares & Inclusions: Fares start at $4,090 per person for a 7-night Adriatic cruise and go up to $50,140 for a 24-night Northwest Passage itinerary. Yes, your fare includes all dining, beverages, Wi-Fi, gratuities, all expedition outings by Zodiac, and select expedition airfares.
Best for: Couples who relish the opportunity to meet other adventurous, food-loving international travelers and seek a mix of sophisticated French luxury with thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime expeditions.