Ponant Explorations

There are so many reasons to choose Ponant, not least their super modern and innovative ships, purpose-built to operate way off the beaten track. These ships are very adaptable - perfect for cold water cruising with their light-filled lounges, and also for warm weather, enjoying an indoor/outdoor style and spacious pool deck with direct access to the sea. Itineraries are so wide-ranging that there will be options to entrance even the most world-weary globetrotter.

Sister ships L'Austral, Le Boréal, Le Lyrial and Le Soléal operate both classic and expedition itineraries, with expeditions to Alaska, Greenland and Svalbard in summer and exciting Antarctica itineraries in our winter months.

Ponant's six Explorer ships - Le Champlain, Le Laperouse, Le Bougainville, Le Dumont d'Urville, Le Bellot and Le Jacques Cartier - are pioneering leaders in their field. Dining inspired by Alain Ducasse, stylish accommodation all with sea view and balcony, and spacious lounges for lectures and socialising are all key to these sister ships. Again, they offer a mix of classic and expedition itineraries, featuring destinations including Australia's Kimberley coast, America's Great Lakes, Indonesia, and Central America.

Importantly, Ponant is working with cutting edge technology to minimise its impact on the planet, with the implementation of best practices in recycling, reuse of solid waste and waste water, certification of the ships by the international 'Clean Ship' label, a quiet and economical electric propulsion system, MDO (Marine Diesel Oil) engines that are lighter and produce less pollution, and a sonar sandbank detection system.

On board these Ponant ships, some amazing innovations make your experience extra special, with a three position hydraulic deck at the back of the ship, perfect for easy embarkation and disembarkation, not to mention watersports, and an extraordinary Blue Eye underwater lounge which enables you to enjoy the views not only above but also below the water.

In 2021, their latest vessel Le Commandant Charcot, the world's first hybrid-powered luxury icebreaker, joined the Ponant fleet. Operating in areas of the Arctic and Antarctica hitherto unexplored by cruise ships and kitted out with the latest in environmentally sensitive technology, this remarkable vessel is redefining polar expedition travel. Extreme adventures include the famed Northwest Passage, quests to reach the North Pole, and semi-circumnavigations of Antarctica. An expedition cruise on board Ponant's innovative Le Commandant Charcot will truly be the adventure of a lifetime.