Looking for the Ultimate Travel Adventure? Consider Exploring by Sea

Reaching the world's most remote destinations is not just a dream; it's becoming a reality, thanks to cruise line Ponant. Whether you're venturing north on an Arctic cruise aboard Ponant's Le Commandant Charcot or exploring the Seychelles, Ponant offers remarkable outdoor excursions across all seven continents, exceptional culinary experiences, and enriching, personalized journeys—all delivered with unmatched elegance. The cruise line's intimate ships prioritize sustainability, offer the personal touch of a private yacht, and can access ports that larger vessels cannot reach.

Ponant is dedicated to providing cultural experiences for discerning travelers eager to uncover a destination's true essence. This commitment extends to couples on their honeymoon, multigenerational families, and solo adventurers alike. Notably, approximately 25% of Ponant's cruises include a free single supplement.

Crafted with guest enjoyment at the forefront, Ponant's modern fleet of 13 vessels redefines what travelers can anticipate, setting itself apart from the large ships and mainstream offerings of most cruise lines. Custom-tailored onboard services, expert-led excursions, and unique off-the-beaten-path destinations characterize Ponant journeys—the only way you'll want to explore the vast oceans in the future.

Experience Hospitality at Sea

Aboard the Le Commandant Charcot, a 245-passenger ship named after a renowned French polar explorer, you'll be accompanied by approximately 210 dedicated crew members on your Arctic journey. This impressive staff-to-passenger ratio, combined with a meticulous attention to detail characteristic of all Ponant cruises, ensures outstanding service. With a team eager to make a lasting impression, Ponant hospitality guarantees that your experience in this extraordinary destination will be unforgettable.

On an Arctic cruise—precisely what the specially designed Le Commandant Charcot excels at—the environment is much harsher compared to tropical cruises, with some excursions prompting you to step outside your comfort zone. Thankfully, the Ponant crew will assist you throughout your adventure, ensuring you have the necessary gear for exploration (including water-resistant parkas and boots for specific activities) and helping you spot polar bears and walruses in their natural habitat while you traverse the Arctic in a Zodiac.

A cruise through French Polynesia, the Caribbean, or the Mediterranean might offer exclusive swimming or snorkeling opportunities in tranquil coves. Ponant’s ships journey from the shores of the Iberian Peninsula to the stunning coastlines of Greece, where each vista surpasses the last. With a variety of water activities available for every traveler, many guests also enjoy the ship's sunbathing areas for peaceful relaxation in some of the world’s most picturesque locations.

In the Seychelles, assist in collecting coral samples to monitor reef health alongside a knowledgeable crew, contributing to the work of the Ponant Foundation. While cruising through the 1,000-mile expanse of the Seychelles archipelago, you’ll encounter colonies of seabirds in flight and coral reefs teeming with fish. Did you know this destination comprises 115 islands, some of which remain untouched by human presence? Imagine tropical forests, pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and giant tortoises. This region is a paradise both on land and at sea.

A more sustainable way to cruise—and unwind

Ponant’s small ships prioritize sustainability. Eco-conscious design is a central feature of Le Bougainville, named in honor of French admiral and explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville. Advanced technology, strict landing protocols, and assessments of the ships’ environmental effects are integral to Ponant’s commitment to responsible cruising and safeguarding the lands and waters they explore.

Ponant's commitment to minimizing its carbon footprint allows you to relax even more fully during your travels. Every Ponant ship includes spas where you can book massages or other treatments to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests aboard the Le Commandant Charcot can enjoy the Nuan Wellness Lounge, which features a sauna and a snow cabin. After a day of self-pampering, you'll be ready for an unforgettable dinner experience every evening with Ponant.

Culinary excellence lies at its core

Ponant's cuisine is truly outstanding, featuring freshly baked organic bread served at every meal and exquisite dining experiences at dinner. Embracing the French lifestyle wherever their ships go, this luxury cruise line collaborates with renowned chef Alain Ducasse and his catering firm, Ducasse Conseil, to deliver dishes of the utmost quality, all carefully crafted. Imagine savoring lobster cooked in truffle with celery remoulade, followed by delightful chocolate praline “sails” for dessert. The onboard restaurants prioritize sourcing ingredients from local suppliers in each destination, further supporting their sustainability initiatives.

This all stems from the cruise line’s dedication to revealing the world to you, enabling a deeper understanding and appreciation for its protection. This admirable mission becomes a reality when you set sail on an extraordinary journey with Ponant.