Ponant has a fleet of sleek, yacht-like ships is designed to access hard-to-reach destinations – from icy polar regions to tropical archipelagos. And while the service is polished, the onboard vibe strikes a balance between casual and quietly elegant – you won’t find stuffy formality here.

Aussie travellers are in luck, too. Ponant continues to offer standout itineraries around Australia, the South Pacific, and far beyond – all with that unique French elegance.

Ponant Cruises Ships

The line’s modern fleet is composed of small-sized vessels designed for expedition cruises. These intimate ships are meant to navigate the world’s most remote destinations. Furthermore, the fleet is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies and the vessels are among the most energy-efficient in the entire cruising industry. 

The current Ponant fleet includes:

The Sisterships

Tagged as the epitome of modern luxury, these famed sisterships namely: Le Boréal, L’Austral, Le Soléal, and Le Lyrial are some of the youngest fleets at sea. Additionally, these vessels have 122 to 132 staterooms and suites that highlight the line’s signature sleek design with furnishings made of high-quality materials.  

The Ponant Explorers

The line’s explorer series is composed of small-sized vessels that feature a multi-sensory lounge called the Blue Eye. These 92-stateroom yachts were named after the French explorers who went on a mission to search previously unknown territories. These explorer ships are Le Lapérouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville, and Le Dumont-d’Urville, Le Jacques-Cartier, Le Bellot. 

The Icebreaker

The line’s most advanced addition to its fleet is the Le Commandant Charcot. This first hybrid-electric luxury vessel is powered by Liquefied Natural Gas and is designed for polar expeditions. Moreover, Le Commandant Charcot is capable of sailing in ice-covered waters.

The Iconic Yacht

The line’s famed Le Ponant is a three-masted traditional French sailing yacht. Additionally, this iconic 16-cabin vessel redefines the concept of luxury cruising to a brand new level. Furthermore, having a complete revamp in 2019, this vessel offers nothing but a one-of-a-kind cruise experience. 

---

Why the Cruise Line?

If you’re after the kind of cruise where the captain might join you for a drink and the daily program includes both kayaking through Antarctic ice and sipping Champagne at sunset—Ponant is probably your kind of line.

What sets Ponant apart is its commitment to small-ship exploration with a distinctly French touch. We’re talking world-class cuisine, elegant yet relaxed interiors, and a crew that somehow knows your name by day two. But it’s not just about luxury for luxury’s sake. The real draw is access. Ponant’s ships are purpose-built to reach off-the-map destinations: think the Kimberley, the edge of the Arctic, or far-flung atolls in the South Pacific.

They also lead the way when it comes to sustainability. Le Commandant Charcot, their hybrid electric polar vessel, is one of the most eco-friendly expedition ships afloat. And with an increasing focus on science-led travel and cultural immersion, Ponant attracts a crowd that’s curious, well-travelled, and always up for an adventure that’s a little bit different.

---

At Glance (Accomodation type, destination/ports)

Accommodation

Ponant might keep things small-ship and intimate, but when it comes to cabin choice, you've still got options. Across the fleet, there’s a mix of staterooms and suites, most of them with private balconies 

Here’s a quick look at what’s on offer:

• Deluxe Staterooms – Cosy but well-designed, with about 19m² of space plus a private balcony. Great if you’re after comfort without going all-out.
• Prestige Staterooms – Same layout as Deluxe, just on a higher deck, so you’ll get slightly better views.
• Deluxe Suites – A step up with more room to stretch out, often including a lounge area and a larger balcony.
• Prestige Suites – Bigger again, with a proper living space, extra perks, and top-deck placement.
• Owner’s Suite – The top-tier option. Think massive balcony, loads of space, and the best spot on the ship.

On Le Ponant, the sailing yacht, things are even more intimate. There are just 16 cabins onboard. Rooms are simple but elegant, and the overall vibe is a barefoot luxury.

---

Ponant Cruises Destinations

Ponant doesn’t just cruise the usual hotspots—they go where most big ships can’t. So if you want to discover multi-faceted continents, this cruise is for you. Whether it’s drifting past glaciers in Antarctica, tracing Viking routes in the Arctic, or exploring coral-fringed islands in the South Pacific, these itineraries are all about discovery without the crowds.

Here’s where they sail:

• Africa & the Indian Ocean
• Alaska
• Asia
• Antarctica
• Arctic
• Australia & the Pacific Islands
• Central & South America
• The Caribbean
• Northern Europe & Scandinavia
• The Mediterranean
• The Red Sea
• The Atlantic Coast
• North America (including Canada)
• Transatlantic crossings

Some itineraries are about remote wilderness, others lean into history and culture—but all of them come with the perks of small-ship cruising, incredible food, and French flair. And yes, they do the Kimberley. Of course, they do.

---

What’s Included?

Ponant cruises aren’t cheap and that’s kind of the point. You’re paying for an all-inclusive experience that feels all-inclusive (not one of those “surprise, that’s extra” deals).

Here’s what’s covered:

• All your meals – Whether it’s breakfast in bed or a multi-course French dinner, it’s all taken care of. The food leans gourmet, but without the fuss.
• Open bar – Yep, from the moment you board. Wine, beer, bubbles, cocktails, coffee—it’s all included (minus a few high-end labels).
• Unlimited Wi-Fi – You can stay connected, post your polar plunge selfie, or pretend to work remotely from the Arctic.
• Shore excursions – As of the 2024/25 season, Ponant includes one excursion per person, per port, on most itineraries. So you won’t just be stuck on the ship staring at glaciers from a distance.
• Zodiac landings & expeditions – On expedition cruises, you’ll head ashore with naturalists and guides for wildlife spotting and proper exploring.
• Room service – Midnight croissant? Go on then. It’s included.
• Port charges and taxes – Already built into the fare. No hidden extras.
• Butler service – If you’ve booked a top suite, you’ll get a butler. No tux, just someone who quietly makes your life easier.

A few things—like spa treatments or premium bottles—might still cost extra, but for the most part, it’s smooth sailing with no bill shock at the end.

---

Cruise Line Packages

Ponant keeps things pretty simple when it comes to packages. There are a few add-ons and bundled deals worth knowing about if you want a truly exceptional sea voyage.

Here’s how it works:

• All-Inclusive as Standard – Your cruise fare already covers meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, most shore excursions, etc. So you're not constantly reaching for your wallet onboard.
  
• Flights & Transfers – On select expedition cruises (especially to remote spots like Antarctica, the Arctic, or the Kimberley), Ponant offers bundled air-and-cruise packages. These often include charter flights, hotel stays before/after the cruise, and transfers. Handy if you don’t want to sort all the logistics yourself.
  
• Pre- and Post-Cruise Extensions – Ponant has curated land extensions that include guided tours, meals, and accommodation—just check if they’re available for your itinerary.
  
• Solo Traveller Offers – From time to time, Ponant waives or reduces the solo supplement, which is great news if you’re cruising solo but don’t want to pay double.
  
• Themed Cruises – Some voyages focus on food, wine, music, or history and come with guest speakers or special events onboard. It’s not a separate “package” per se, but worth keeping an eye on if you're after something a bit different.

---

Dining Experiences

Dining onboard Ponant is an absolute epicurean delight that focuses on creativity, quality, and sustainability. This goes to show that the line is always in keeping with the French ‘art of living’ wherever in the world. The chefs also make sure that they get to work closely with local producers to incorporate nothing but the freshest and most authentic flavours in their dishes. 

Most ships offer two main spots:

• Le Nautilus – This is the main gastronomic restaurant, where you can eat when you like (no rigid sittings here). The menus rotate daily and mix French favourites with local flavours picked up along the way.
  
• The Grill (aka Le Nemo) – A more casual, outdoor spot near the pool where you can grab grilled seafood, salads, and lighter bites. Perfect when you’re salty from the Zodiac and not quite ready for linen napkins.

On Le Commandant Charcot, they’ve kicked things up a notch with Le Nuna, a restaurant created in collaboration with Alain Ducasse. It’s a bit more elevated, but still warm and inviting—no snobbery, just seriously good food.

Even Le Ponant, their original sailing yacht, has its own onboard chef turning out regionally inspired dishes. Fewer guests mean meals feel more like a dinner party than a cruise buffet.

---

Cabins Experiences

Ponant prides itself on its small, sleek vessels that have white gloved service. Whether you're on one of their newer Explorer-class ships or the classic three-masted Le Ponant, the vibe is intimate, relaxed, and effortlessly stylish.

Every cabin comes with a private balcony, so no fighting for window views. The rooms are decked out in soft tones, clean lines, and just enough nautical flair to remind you you're at sea, without looking like a theme park.

Even the entry-level staterooms are generous in size and come with all the comforts: a queen bed (or twins), minibar, flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi, and a bathroom that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. If you’re splashing out on a suite, you’ll get more space, a walk-in wardrobe, and even butler service if you're up on Deck 6.

And then there’s Le Ponant—the yacht. With just 16 cabins onboard, it feels more like a private retreat than a cruise ship. It’s a favourite for those who want the experience to feel extra exclusive (without needing to bring your own yacht).

Ponant nails that sweet spot between luxury and laid-back. No over-the-top glitz, just beautifully designed spaces where you can kick back in style after a day of exploring.

---

Activities (Family, Kids and Couples)

The vibe on Ponant is more refined than rowdy, with activities that lean into culture, nature, and a bit of indulgence.

Here’s what you’ll find onboard:

• Expert-led talks – On expedition sailings, naturalists, historians, and guest lecturers give talks that actually make you want to sit down and listen. It’s like travel documentary meets TED Talk—minus the YouTube ads.
• Cooking demos and tastings – Occasionally offered on select voyages, especially the food-focused ones. And yes, there’s wine involved.
• Live music and cultural performances – Think intimate piano sessions, chamber music, or performances by local artists brought onboard depending on the itinerary.
• Film screenings and documentaries – Most ships have a small theatre where you can catch destination-themed documentaries or the occasional movie night.
• Fitness and wellness – There’s a small but well-equipped gym, plus a spa and hammam if you’re more about massages than treadmills.

For couples:

Ponant’s ships are made for quiet moments and shared experiences—sunset cocktails, private dinners, polar plunges (if that’s your thing). There’s space to be social, but also plenty of corners to escape the crowd.

For families:

Ponant doesn’t offer traditional kids' clubs, but families are welcome, especially on select school holiday departures. Kids who are into wildlife, adventure, and actually seeing the natural world (not just sitting in a ball pit) will be just fine. 

---

Loyalty Programs

If you’ve cruised with Ponant once and thought, “Yep, I could get used to this,” then good news—your second cruise gets you into the Ponant Yacht Club, the line’s loyalty program.

It’s pretty straightforward: the more you sail, the more perks you unlock. We’re talking discounts on future bookings, onboard credit, laundry perks, priority boarding, and even the occasional cabin upgrade (if there’s space).

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Major (from your 2nd cruise):
  You’ll get 5% off future bookings, 20% off most onboard expenses, €50 in onboard credit, and a couple of free laundry items each day.
  
• Admiral (after your 4th cruise):
  The booking discount goes up to 7.5%, your onboard credit doubles, and you can wash up to 5 items daily. There's also a chance of a free upgrade if rooms are available.
  
• Grand Admiral (after 7 cruises):
  You’ll get 10% off bookings, €150 in credit, flexible booking changes, and all the usual perks.
  
• Commodore (after 20 cruises):
  This is the top tier. You’ll get 12.5% off future cruises, €200 in credit, a dedicated phone line, priority boarding, flexible date changes, and all the bells and whistles.

The best part is you’re automatically enrolled after your first cruise—you don’t need to sign up for anything. Just keep cruising, and the perks follow.

---

FAQs

Latest News