Ponant

Ponant is a world-leading luxury expedition and yacht-style cruise line from France, known for combining refined French elegance with immersive exploration. Their fleet of small, eco-conscious ships, including the modern PONANT EXPLORERS series and the revolutionary icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot, allows guests to travel to both iconic destinations and remote, hard-to-reach regions. Ponant attracts travelers seeking intimate ship environments, cultural enrichment, and expedition-style experiences with the comfort of a luxury hotel at sea.

What’s Included

Elegant staterooms and suites, many with private balconies and refined French-inspired design.

All meals onboard, including fine dining curated by French chefs.

Open bar throughout the ship (wine, beer, champagne, spirits, soft drinks, specialty coffees, bottled water).

Room service, depending on the ship and suite class.

Expedition activities depending on itinerary (zodiac outings, guided nature walks, wildlife viewing, lectures).

Enrichment programs led by naturalists, historians, geologists, polar experts, or cultural specialists.

Wi-Fi access onboard.

Port taxes, fees & onboard gratuities.

What to Know

Small ship size means more access to remote destinations, personalized service, and minimal crowding but also limited onboard inventory for last-minute bookings.

For expedition destinations (Antarctica, Arctic, Kimberley, remote islands), travelers may be required to attend mandatory briefings and follow strict environmental guidelines.

Weather in expedition regions can change rapidly; flexible expectations and layered clothing are essential.

Seas may be rough in polar or open-ocean expeditions, so travelers prone to motion sickness should plan ahead with medications or remedies.

Ponant’s atmosphere is refined yet relaxed, expect a French-inspired luxury experience, smart-casual dress, excellent cuisine, and a strong focus on culture, wildlife, and the natural world.

For bucket-list destinations (Antarctica, Greenland, South Pacific), booking 12–18 months in advance is recommended due to limited cabin availability.

Best For

Luxury seekers with a sense of adventure: Ponant focuses on upscale comfort and service, think French-style elegance, gourmet dining, attentive crew, and 5-star touches in a boutique setting.

Discovery & culture enthusiasts: Guests who enjoy deeper engagement with destinations, themed voyages (history, wine, art, expert talks), and excursions that bring local culture and nature to life will love Ponant.

Expedition travelers: Those who want to go beyond typical cruise ports, Antarctica, Arctic regions, remote islands, and off-the-beaten-path itineraries, will find Ponant’s expedition cruises especially compelling.

Solo and mature travelers: The small-ship scale and inclusive atmosphere make it welcoming for solo adventurers and well-travelled guests who appreciate comfort without crowds.

Clients who value intimate experiences: With ships typically under ~250 guests, travelers experience personalised service, quieter ports of call, and a genuine sense of connection to place.

Adventure & Expedition Seekers: Those who want to go off the beaten path — to polar regions or remote lakes — with a premium, well-supported cruise provider.