Discover Ponant: French Elegance Meets Far-Flung Exploration

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing to the edge of the world with a glass of champagne in hand, Ponant might be your perfect match. This French luxury expedition line brings together refined onboard living, cutting-edge ships, and some of the most intriguing itineraries in small-ship cruising. From Antarctica to the Kimberley and everywhere in between, Ponant offers a distinctly European take on exploration—equal parts adventure and indulgence.

A Fleet Designed for Discovery and Delight

Ponant’s fleet is one of the most modern and technically advanced in the expedition category. It includes the sleek Explorer-class ships—like Le Champlain and Le Dumont-d’Urville—built for warm-weather cruising with eco-friendly features and innovative design. Then there are the slightly larger Sisterships—such as Le Boréal, L’Austral, and Le Soléal—perfectly suited for polar regions. Most recently, they’ve introduced the hybrid-electric Le Commandant Charcot, a groundbreaking luxury icebreaker capable of reaching the geographic North Pole while minimizing environmental impact.

Every ship is intimate in size (typically under 200 guests) and offers a yacht-like ambiance. Onboard, expect an understated blend of natural materials, designer furnishings, and a cool, coastal color palette that gives the ships a fresh and contemporary feel. It’s luxury without being flashy—elegant, but never overwhelming.

Where They Sail: From the Poles to Polynesia

Ponant’s itineraries span all seven continents, with a strong focus on remote regions and immersive experiences. Their polar offerings are robust—Antarctica, South Georgia, the Falklands, Greenland, Svalbard, and even Northeast Passage sailings through Arctic Russia. But they also venture into tropical and cultural destinations with an explorer’s spirit. Think: the Seychelles, Papua New Guinea, the Kimberley, Japan, the Amazon, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Greek Islands.

The line often partners with institutions like Smithsonian Journeys or National Geographic for themed voyages, deepening the educational component and adding rare access to experts, historians, or scientists onboard.

The Onboard Experience: French Chic, Global Perspective

Sailing with Ponant feels like being welcomed into a sophisticated French retreat at sea. The crew delivers impeccable service with a European flair, and many staff speak multiple languages. Cuisine is a highlight, as you'd expect from a French cruise line—think daily baked croissants, regional wines, and multi-course meals that rival fine restaurants in Paris. Even in the most remote corners of the world, Ponant finds a way to deliver foie gras or duck confit with seamless elegance.

While the vibe is polished, it’s never stiff. Guests range from well-traveled couples to solo adventurers, often skewing international and curious rather than flashy. The onboard atmosphere is relaxed and intellectual, with enrichment lectures, cultural programming, and a refined sense of curiosity.

Signature Features: Blue Eye Lounge and Beyond

Ponant goes the extra mile to enhance the expedition experience with thoughtful and innovative features. One of the most unique is the Blue Eye Lounge—a multi-sensory underwater observation lounge available on the Explorer-class ships. From within a sleek, dimly lit room beneath the waterline, guests can listen to underwater sounds and watch marine life through eye-shaped windows built into the hull. It’s unlike anything else at sea.

On polar sailings, guests are treated to expert-led excursions via a full fleet of Zodiacs, along with optional activities like kayaking or hiking. On warmer itineraries, snorkeling, cultural village visits, and nature walks are often highlights. Scientific enrichment is available on select sailings, and on Le Commandant Charcot, guests can participate in citizen science initiatives and interact with onboard researchers.

The Ponant Difference

What sets Ponant apart is its ability to balance true expedition travel with an elevated onboard experience. It’s one of the few lines that can take you to Antarctica and still offer caviar, Champagne, and fine linens without missing a beat. Their commitment to sustainability is strong, with efforts like advanced wastewater treatment systems, minimized single-use plastics, and clean ship technology.

There’s also an unmistakable sense of purpose behind their itineraries. Ponant doesn’t just aim to show you the world—they want you to understand it. Through partnerships, cultural programming, and responsible tourism practices, they encourage travelers to look deeper and travel more thoughtfully.

Why Choose Ponant?

If you’re drawn to the spirit of exploration but still crave the finer things in life, Ponant is your sweet spot. It’s ideal for travelers who want immersive itineraries without giving up comfort, for adventurers who appreciate a good Bordeaux with their icebergs, and for cultural seekers who believe in traveling beautifully and responsibly.

With Ponant, you don’t have to choose between luxury and adventure—you get both, woven seamlessly together in a way only the French could deliver.