PONANT, THE ONLY MAJOR French-owned cruise line serving destinations worldwide, is campaigning to attract more North American passengers, having recently opened offices in New York and Miami. Ponant presents dual appeal in its fleet of small luxury ships featuring gourmet French dining and the wide range of exotic ports it serves from pole to pole.
Long known as a top polar expedition cruise line, Ponant also sails to Northern Europe, Russia and the Mediterranean; Oceania, Asia and Africa; as well as Alaska and Central and South America. Its 2019–2020 program includes 114 departures, with 23 sailings to Antarctica and 33 to Latin America. Its fleet of nine vessels ranges from one classic three-masted sailing yacht — the 64-passenger Le Ponant — to the four 244- to 264-passenger yacht-like ships Le Soleal, Le Boreal, L’Austral and Le Lyrial, each equipped with spa and fitness facilities. All feature French crews and chefs, with both French and English the official onboard languages.
A new series of 184-passenger exploration ships, led by the recent launches of Le Laperouse, Le Bougainville, Le Champlain and Le Dumont-d’Urville, extends Ponant’s French touch to high-end exploration cruising. These yacht-like exploration vessels boast Blue Eyes, the world’s first underwater passenger lounge, enabling guests to see, hear and feel the ocean from “body listening sofas.” The ships also sport private balconies and terraces, moveable marinas, heated seawater pools and solariums, two gourmet dining venues with menus by Ducasse Conseil, Champagnes by Veuve Clicquot, theaters for lectures and shows, and a fitness center with spa treatments from Paris-based Sothys.
Members of Ponant’s small-ship luxury fleet, such as the chic Le Soleal, are frequently chartered by organizations for special cruises — such as Abercrombie & Kent’s popular Wonders of Japan all-inclusive annual outing, next set for June 13–26, 2020.
Ponant’s more exotic voyages include a cruise aboard the new Le Dumont-d’Urville to the Bijagós Archipelago Oct. 8–16, 2019, off the coast of Africa’s Guinea-Bissau. This roundtrip from Dakar, Senegal, explores a rarely visited 88-island UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The same ship offers a nature-themed cruise Jan. 6–16, 2020, to Costa Rica and the Panama Canal featuring naturalist Paul Donahue. This cruise focuses on Costa Rica’s efforts to preserve its natural treasures, highlighted by a stop in Corcovado National Park, perhaps the most biodiverse location on Earth.
Ponant signals its own dedication to environmental cruising through its partnership with the British-based Aldabra Clean Up Project in the Seychelles, where passengers can help with the cleanup of the Aldabra Atoll during a shore excursion.
Whether it’s jungle or ice, Ponant makes it possible to explore the world’s diversity on seven continents while adding a French twist to expedition cruising.
Read This Next
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Dec 11, 2024Eurostar Debuts Culinary Evolution: Trio of Chefs Introduced Onboard
One of the most comfortable and efficient transportation modes in Europe is Eurostar, the train connecting London via the Channel Tunnel with many European cities using high-speed direct trains to some cities (like Paris and Brussels), and connections to dozens of other destinations. This year, Eurostar celebrated its 30th anniversary.
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
Daily
Dec 11, 2024PGA WEST Unveils Multimillion-Dollar Revitalization in Palm Springs
PGA WEST, known as The Western Home of Golf in America, recently announced the completion of its multimillion-dollar, three-year restoration project across its three acclaimed, Pete Dye-designed courses. This new revitalization project allows the iconic 2,000-acre golf destination to continue setting the bar for golf courses around the world. These courses are ready to amaze members and guests all over again.
eFlyer Reviews
Dec 11, 2024Canne Bianche Lifestyle & Hotel Review
Perched on the Italian Adriatic in Torre Canne, Canne Bianche Lifestyle Hotel provides an escape of coastal luxury amid the local charm of Puglia. Located just steps from the sea, this boutique retreat captures the region’s essence with thoughtful design, exceptional dining and a connection to local culture.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
eFlyer News
Dec 11, 2024Air France & KLM Royal Dutch Airlines Partner with Kolet for Mobile Connectivity
Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines announced a new partnership with Kolet, a French eSIM technology specialist, to offer reliable mobile connectivity in more than 190 countries.
W Hotels Debuts in Prague
eFlyer News
Dec 11, 2024PONANT Launches Holiday Season Offer
eFlyer Deals
Dec 11, 2024Delta Air Lines Completely Transforms Cabins
eFlyer Lead
Dec 11, 2024Daily
Dec 11, 2024Arizona Grand Resort & Spa Unveils an Impressive $10 Million Renovation
Arizona Grand Resort & Spa, set within America’s largest urban park and wilderness preserve, has been newly transformed, with the residential-style resort offering a “home away from home” experience. In the bounds of Phoenix’s South Mountain Preserve, the resort now boasts refreshed rooms, meeting spaces and public spaces.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
Daily
Dec 10, 2024Hollywood Volume Joins Tribute Portfolio Hotels
It’s relaunch time: Hollywood VOLUME (formerly known as tommie Hollywood) joined Marriott International’s Tribute Portfolio and is ready for its close-up. The relaunch, which provides access to Marriott’s Bonvoy program, builds on the hotel’s location in Hollywood’s Vinyl District with hosted pop-up parties, Tuesday and Thursday social hours with complimentary canapés served in the lobby, and revolving art installations featuring local creators.
ShareThis