Ponant, the French luxury expedition brand offers nothing but a 5-star cruise experience that is both authentic and high-end.
Focusing on immersive experiences, personalised service, and sustainable tourism, this French cruise line is undoubtedly a leader in exploring the world’s most enticing destinations.
The line’s fleet of small and intimate ships is designed to explore the off-the-beaten-path territories. This allows guests to visit places where large ships cannot go.
Moreover, Compagnie du Ponant provides an onboard atmosphere of refined elegance and casual sophistication. Putting a premium on quality over quantity, the line ensures that every aspect of the voyage is tailored to guests’ preferences and tastes.
Furthermore, Australian travellers are fortunate to have access to the line’s array of itineraries that explore the stunning landscapes and cultures of the South Pacific and beyond.
The Ponant fleet
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 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, The 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.
Where do Ponant ships sail?
Ponant offers a wide array of itineraries across the globe. From the awe-inspiring landscapes of the South Pacific and Asia to the majestic wilderness of Antarctica and the Arctic, the line offers nothing but an unparalleled journey of discovery.
The line’s featured destinations are the following:
- Africa and the Indian Ocean
- Alaska
- Central America
- North America and Canada
- South America
- The Antarctic
- The Arctic
- Asia
- The Caribbean
- Northern Europe and Scandinavia
- Mediterranean
- The Red Sea
- Oceania and the Pacific Islands
- The Atlantic Coast
- Transatlantic
Ponant Cruise Line Dining
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. Additionally, the line’s commitment to sustainability extends to its culinary offerings where it locally outsources seasonal ingredients. Moreover, the chefs also make sure that they get to work closely with local producers to incorporate nothing but the freshest and most authentic flavors in their dishes.
Is Ponant Line all-inclusive?
The line offers a luxury cruise experience where most amenities, services, and activities are fare-included. This ensures a seamless and hassle-free journey for all cruise passengers.
Included in the Ponant fare are the following:
- accommodation in an elegantly appointed stateroom
- the full meal plan
- the Open Bar
- Wi-Fi internet access
- activities offered during expedition cruises
- access to all the common areas
What entertainment and activities can be found onboard Ponant Line?
While mainly focusing on immersive exploration and cultural enrichment, Ponant also features a range of well-thought-out entertainment and activities for travellers onboard. Some of these include:
- Expert-led lectures and presentations designed to deepen the guests’ understanding of visited destinations
- Culinary demonstrations and tastings
- Language and arts classes which allow guests to explore new skills or hone existing ones while at sea
- Live music performances and cultural shows
- Screening rooms for watching documentaries, films, and travelogues complement the voyage
- Well-equipped fitness centers
- Spa facilities
Does Ponant have gratuities?
It is customary among cruise lines to give tips to members of the crew for their exceptional service. For Ponant, gratuities are left at the discretion of the guests. The line leaves an anonymous envelope in the guests’ at the end of the cruise. Tips or gratuities are then divided by the members of the crew.
Are there dress codes aboard Ponant?
When it comes to dress code, Ponant’s guests are advised to wear casual and elegant clothing at their utmost convenience. But a more formal attire is recommended during Captain’s Dinner.
Additionally, cruise passengers are also advised to bring practical clothes and comfortable shoes which are suitable for travelling in Zodiacs and going on beaches or muddy areas. On the other hand, guests are recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, long-sleeved clothing, and pants for tropical expeditions.
Meanwhile, for Arctic and Antarctic cruises, guests are advised to bring clothes suitable for polar expeditions.
Who sails on a Ponant cruise?
Ponant is more popular with luxury and cultured clientele who appreciate the line’s focus on luxury, immersive experiences, and sustainable tourism. Additionally, the line caters to affluent cruise enthusiasts seeking a highly luxurious and intimate cruise experience. The luxurious amenities, small ship sizes, and upscale accommodations appeal to those with discerning tastes and the means to indulge in premium travel experiences.
With Ponant’s fleet of expedition ships and bucket-listed itineraries that explore the most remote and off-the-beaten-path destinations, the line attracts a good number of adventure seekers who are eager to explore lesser-known corners of the world in comfort and style.
Furthermore, as a French cruise line, it is particularly appealing to Francophiles and French-speaking travellers who appreciate the line’s French culture, cuisine, and attention to detail.
