Yacht Cruises & Expeditions
Estimated reading time: 24 minutes
The Results Are In, PONANT is #1!
Winner, Best Small Ships
Winner, Best Expedition Ships
The votes are in, and PONANT is honored to announce the world’s most discerning travelers have voted us #1 in the Best Expedition Ships—including Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s only luxury icebreaker—and Best Small Ships categories in Condé Nast 2022 Reader’s Choice Awards! It is truly an honor to be chosen by more than 800,000 voters and earn a top spot on this prestigious annual list of the best in travel. It is also a testament to the hard work of PONANT Captains, Crew, and Staff—both aboard and ashore—who are dedicated to crafting one-of-a-kind experiences for their distinguished clientele. PONANT has been exploring to inspire for over 30 years, and with you as our clients, this path is limitless.
The PONANT EXPLORATIONS Experience
The three words that come to mind when I think of the luxury cruise brand PONANT EXPLORATIONS: Adventure. Luxury. French.
PONANT’s exceptional luxury voyages deliver quality and excellence through an unprecedented sailing experience!
They are world leaders in exploration, focusing on sleek small ships that deliver incredible personalized experiences, both onboard and ashore, in all parts of the world: from refined Mediterranean journeys to polar explorations.
If you are new to PONANT, I hope you find this introduction valuable. If you are already familiar, perhaps this will ignite memories of a special cruising destination. In any case, please do reach out if you’d like information on cruising with PONANT. We highly recommend it, so, Read On …
Le Ponant Experience
The iconic three-master sailing ship
Join a slow-travel sailing experience aboard an exclusive and fully refitted historic yacht that appeals to sea lovers seeking contemplation, disconnection, and a return to the essentials. Le Ponant offers the feel of a private yacht with personalized service and unparalleled freedom. You will benefit from a deep local and cultural immersion through small-group exclusive activities while enjoying locally-inspired gourmet cuisine that fuses authenticity with French excellence. … Read on ….
English-Language Themed Voyages to Indulge Your Inner Explorer
FOOD + WINE | WORLD AFFAIRS | CONFLUENCE OF CULTURES | MUSIC
EXCEPTIONAL THEMED VOYAGES
ENGAGE IN YOUR WORLD
This collection of PONANT EXPLORATIONS themed voyages are specially tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes airport transfers to and from the ship on the days of embarkation and disembarkation, talks and discussions by world-class experts, and a shore excursion in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and aromas of the local environment and culture.
INCLUDED IN EVERY VOYAGE
- Port taxes and charges
- Unlimited Starlink WiFi access
- Complimentary 24-hour room service
- An included shore excursion in each port of call
- A series of lectures, performances, and tastings aboard led by a team of experts (as applicable)
- All meals aboard ship, including early riser’s coffee and pastries, breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner
- Open bar aboard ship, including select wines served with lunch and dinner
- Airport/ship transfers and luggage handling on the days of embarkation and disembarkation
- Gratuities to shipboard personnel, porters, guides, and drivers
The Arctic & North American Departures
Embark for a bona fide adventure to the fascinating landscapes and scenery of the Far North! NorthStar advisors invite you to set sail for the fjords and glaciers of Spitsbergen, the west coast of Iceland, the Great Lakes, or Greenland onboard Ponant’s intimately sized, environmentally friendly luxury ships. They’re also offering six brand-new itineraries taking guests to explore the Faroe Islands, Canada and the Great Lakes region this season. Discover Ponant’s complete range of itineraries today and book now to take advantage of this special PONANT Bonus prices, a savings up to 30%!*
St. Lawrence River aboard Le Commandant Charcot
PONANT EXPLORATIONS Pioneers Winter Cruising in Canada’s Far North
PONANT EXPLORATIONS has recently introduced yet another “first” to the cruising and expedition world. Le Commandant Charcot became the first ship to sail St. Lawrence River in Canada’s Far North during the winter season. The world’s only luxury icebreaker, she is the only passenger ship that can make this voyage – and it’s only the beginning as PONANT continues to change the face of polar exploration.
The St. Lawrence River, in the heart of Québec, transforms into …. Read On …
An Unforgettable Journey to Antarctica
NorthStar invites You to embark on a 5-star PONANT Expedition!
Welcome Aboard Ponant ships built to a more human scale, you will discover this white paradise and its breathtaking landscapes, including majestic icebergs, shining white ice floes, snowy peaks and more. Accompanied by their naturalist guides, you will set out on daily zodiac trips to get a chance of seeing the absolutely unique wildlife (papuan, Adélie and chinstrap penguins, humpback whales, seals, or sea birds.
If you may have already traveled in Antarctica then you will be able to set sail on a new itinerary and explore areas such as the South Orkney Islands, the Sub-Antarctic Islands, South Georgia, the Antarctic Peninsula or the Antarctic Polar Circle.
With savings up to 30%*, very flexible booking conditions, vaccination requirements and increased health procedures, book your next adventure now with complete peace of mind.
PONANT is the only luxury cruise line to feature three brand new ships sailing to Antarctica and the Arctic each season with 46% market share, making us #1 in luxury expedition cruising.
Promotions Offered By PONANT
Shore excursion in each port of call + transfers included
Valid for Travel Now Through 31 Dec 2026
Discover your Inner Explorer on Expert-led themed voyages curated for you!
Engage with the world on a themed all-inclusive experience. In addition to PONANT Explorations’ usual all-inclusive amenities, these voyages also include transfers to and from the ship, onboard talks and discussions by world-class experts, and a shore excursion in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and aromas of the local environment and culture.
Where traditional PONANT voyages are operated in both French and English, these expert-led themed departures are curated especially for English-speaking travelers while showcasing PONANT’s signature French flair and heritage in onboard delivery and service. See All Terms & Conditions
Zero Single Supplement for Solo Travelers on over 200 PONANT sailings!
Valid for Travel Now Through 31 Dec 2026
Solo travelers can experience PONANT Explorations without a single supplemental upcharge on over 200 sailings in destinations such as Antarctica, Australia, Central America, Japan, Madagascar, and more!
*The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories. Offer is capacity controlled and can be withdrawn at any time. See All Terms & Conditions
Enjoy Up to 30% savings with the PONANT Bonus Fare!
Valid for Travel Now Through 31 Dec 2026
Enjoy up to 30% savings on select voyages with the PONANT Bonus Fare! Fares are inclusive of the up to 30% PONANT Bonus Savings.
The Weddell Sea Antarctic Expedition
Valid for Travel 30 Oct 2025 – 17 Jan 2026
Save up to 20% with PONANT Bonus Savings on select Antarctic Expedition Cruises to the Weddell Sea. Includes an overnight pre-cruise hotel stay, select flights between Santiago and Ushuaia, and complimentary airport transfers.
Embark on a unique journey aboard Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s only luxury icebreaker, to explore the heart of the 7th continent. Perfect for both first-time adventurers and seasoned explorers, this vessel breaks through formidable pack ice, granting rare access to Antarctica’s most uncharted realms. Experience polar exploration redefined, where ultimate luxury meets unmatched discovery. See All Terms & Conditions
Savings on the Gift of a Lifetime
Save up to 30% plus an extra 5% on groups of five
In this season of giving, Ponant is inviting you to share that special PONANT moment with the gift of a cruise. Reserve your space on any of their voyages and take advantage of the PONANT Bonus Fares, an early booking incentive with savings up to 30%. Plus, when you explore with four friends or family members, all five of you save an additional 5% * in addition to Ponant’s Worry-Free booking policy!
Flock to Crystal-Clear Waters
Savings Up to 30% on an Escape to the Caribbean
Dive in and be embraced by the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean. You will explore this close-to-home destination with PONANT and experience the islands’ easy Creole way of life with a group of sophisticated, like-minded individuals. Guests saunter off their ship, Le Dumont-D’Urville, and discover secret coves and intimate ports inaccessible to larger ships.
Le Dumont-D’Urville will anchor you among a rosary of islands bound together by the beautiful coral reef of Tobago Cays National Park to discover an incredible underwater world of flora and fauna. Bequia Island’s Princess Margaret Beach will bewilder all guess with its wild coastline emerging from a tropical forest perfect for strolling and getting reacquainted with nature. Guests also observe Saint George’s lively commercial fishing harbor of colorful boats being loaded with fruit and vegetables destined for neighboring islands.
PONANT & Smithsonian Journeys
Europe Enriched with PONANT & Smithsonian Journeys
ANTARCTICA • VIETNAM • JAPAN • INDONESIA • MADAGASCAR • SEYCHELLES • ICELAND •
SOUTH AFRICA • SCOTTISH ISLES • COSTA RICA • THE CARIBBEAN • DALMATIAN COAST •
THE MEDITERRANEAN • CANARYISLANDS • ST LAWRENCE RIVER • ATLANTIC COAST • AND MORE
Small-Ship Explorations to Inspire Your Senses in 2026
PONANT | Smithsonian Journeys have some great experiences waiting for you in Europe. We invite you to discover each destination with the help of Smithsonian Journeys experts ranging in fields from anthropology to history and the arts. Celebrate Easter in the Christian pilgrimage destination of Santiago de Compostela; step foot on one of the most beautiful glaciers in Norway, the Briksdal Glacier; take an exclusive, night-time, private tour of the Alhambra in Granada; and be entranced at the ballet in St. Petersburg. Every PONANT | Smithonian Journeys cruise will include two Smithsonian Journeys Experts, guided excursions at every port, transfers between the airport and the ship, and more! See the Brochure here.
Featured Cruises
The Incomparable Le Commandant Charcot
Go where no one you know has gone before
The World’s First–and Only–Luxury Icebreaker
Le Commandant Charcot is the definition of an all-inclusive, luxury expedition vessel. Five-star service on board is a given, whether you are in a suite that offers butler service, or a stateroom with your own private balcony. All meals and drinks on board, complimentary 24-hour room service, and activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and the legendary polar plunge are all included. Plus, there are endless ways to relax—sauna, snow room, observation lounge, spa, library, cigar room.
EXCEPTIONAL THEMED VOYAGES TO ENGAGE IN YOUR WORLD
English-Language Themed Voyages to Indulge Your Inner Explorer
This collection of PONANT EXPLORATIONS themed voyages are specially tailored for English-speaking travelers who want to engage with the world. In addition to the usual elements of the PONANT experience, the listed price for these voyages includes airport transfers to and from the ship on the days of embarkation and disembarkation, talks and discussions by world-class experts, and a shore excursion in each port of call that encourages guests to embrace the sights, sounds, tastes, and aromas of the local environment and culture.
- Epicurean Delights of Sicily and the Adriatic Coast of Italy
- A World Affairs Cruise in the Baltic
- A Confluence of Cultures: Discovering Southern Spain and Portugal
- A Symphony at Sea: The Musical Traditions of Ireland and France
- Life Aboard the PONANT EXPLORATIONS Ships
FOOD + WINE | WORLD AFFAIRS | CONFLUENCE OF CULTURES | MUSIC
The unprecedented public health crisis we have just been faced with has been managed in an exemplary manner by both their land-based teams and their crews, with not a single case of COVID-19 detected onboard their ships. The speed and efficiency of their protocols and their state-of-the-art medical equipment together with the small size of their ships have made it possible to ensure everyone’s safety and security. PONANT has put in place more stringent health protection measures and maximized safety levels to guarantee you a completely calm and stress-free sailing experience.
Le Commandant Charcot Online Brochure!
Sailing in the midst of the ice, at the very edge of the world, trying to spot the emperor penguins of Bellingshausen, feeling the thrill of adventure as you approach the North Pole… With this very first hybrid-powered polar exploration vessel, Ponant offers our clients some truly immersive experiences, in search of the authentic spirit of the poles.
The latest addition to their fleet, a true gem of sophistication, will offer guests a level of comfort and service unequaled in these extreme areas. It is also a formidable tool for the furthering of scientific knowledge, equipped with research infrastructures (laboratories, sonar, coring, etc.). This means there will be dedicated scientists on board who will share their know-how about these fragile environments.
To make your exploratory experience even more unforgettable, many new activities are included*: participatory science, kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, polar diving without a wetsuit, polar swimming in a dry suit, and more. Over 20 naturalist guides will supervise these activities and take you to encounter the rich and fascinating wildlife during Zodiac or hovercraft trips.
Watch PONANT | Smithsonian Journeys video to see some of the exciting experiences they have waiting for you in 2022. An exclusive hosted visit to the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama City. Diving into crystal-clear water and snorkeling in fabulous seabeds to observe colorful tropical fish in the Caribbean. In Antarctica, setting off to discover the icy vastness and the wildlife of the White Continent, including humpback whales, seals, and penguins. Making traditional udon noodles and savoring their umami in Japan.
Is Antarctica on Your Wish List?
Explore the Ultimate Winter Wonderland
Because Ponant is looking forward to casting off again, they are offering our clients the chance to embark on an expedition cruise to Antarctica in the winter of 2021-22! Aboard Ponant’s luxurious ships, set out to discover these uninhabited remote lands, once sought-after by the greatest explorers, and which only a privileged few have had the chance to see.
Immense tabular icebergs, immaculate pack ice, majestic glaciers, volcanic black sand beaches, and more. You will sail through fascinating landscapes and encounter unique wildlife on Zodiac outings led by their experienced naturalist guides.
Onboard, you will enjoy excellent cuisine, 5-star comfort, and attentive, discreet service. Ponant’s onboard experts will share their knowledge during presentations on the history of great explorations, the fauna, flora, geology, and climatology of Antarctica.
In addition to other-worldly landscapes and endemic wildlife—including polar bears—the Arctic is also occupied by humans. Despite its cold, isolating location, warm-hearted people thrive here. PONANT invites you to discover these communities and hear tales from their daily lives and how the changing environment effects the survival of their culture.
Why visit Antarctica with PONANT?
Kayak among centuries-old, towering castles of ice, recapture your youth sliding down a slope with your arms held high, marvel at humpback breaching right before your eyes. How will you and loved-ones be awakened in Antarctica…
Luxury Exists in the Depths of the Ice…
Polar Adventure with Uncompromised Luxury
This year, Ponant invites our esteemed guests to travel deeper into the polar regions, where fewer people have been than the moon. You will explore the depths of the ice without compromising any creature comforts aboard the brand-new Le Commandant Charcot. After a face-to-beak meeting with Emperor penguins or stepping foot on the Geographic North Pole, guests return to the ship, a cocoon of luxury at the end of the world. You then enjoy a warm drink from the bar and a gourmet meal in the restaurant, take a sauna (alternating between a hot room and a snow room), or take in polar vistas while wading in the ship’s heated Blue Lagoon outdoor pool. Traveling aboard Le Commandant Charcot allows you to see the polar region like never before through epic experiences, including kayaking, snowshoeing, participative science and hovercraft.
Where Will You Be Next Summer?
Plan to back in the Mediterranean’s summer glow!
The Mediterranean’s mosaics of land bathed in sunshine and lined with crystal-clear waters provide the perfect mix of leisure activity, relaxation, and cultural discoveries. Aboard PONANT’s safe, Clean-certified small ships, you will be transported in luxury and comfort to the ancient sites of Delphi or Ephesus, the sumptuous panoramas of the Greek islands, or the islets dotting the Adriatic coast. Discover both the legendary and lesser-known treasures left by the myriad cultures that have made this extraordinary destination their home. Take advantage of Worry-Free booking policy!
No Supplement for Solo Travelers†
Solo Travelers Enjoy Their Voyage Without Paying Extra!
PONANT welcomes solo travelers onboard to enjoy small-ship camaraderie with like-minded guests at no additional cost. These are a large variety of cruises, specially designed for independent travelers.
†The supplement for single usage of a double cabin is waived, according to availability and staterooms categories.
The Mediterranean with PONANT Explorations
Sun-drenched shores, idyllic villages, ancient sites & onboard delights
Sail into the Sweet Life
With its lands bathed in sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and legendary sites, the Mediterranean is an ideal destination for both lovers of art and history, and fans of leisurely relaxation. Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Acropolis of Athens and the medieval city of Rhodes. Savor the region’s rich culinary traditions, from gourmet markets to exquisite onboard dining. Indulge in la dolce vita both on and off board, and embark on a beautiful getaway in the Mediterranean with PONANT Explorations.
Choose a Theme that Piques Your Interest
Book now and take advantage of Ponant’s Serenity policy. Pay only a 10% deposit to confirm your reservation and the final balance will be requested 30 days before your departure. You may cancel up to 30 days prior to departure and receive a full refund of your deposit.
Now you have the opportunity to nourish your senses on a PONANT Quintessential Collection cruise, tailored expressly for the North American traveler aboard Ponant’s intimate yachts. Watch a Geisha unravel the mysteries of a cultural tradition in Japan, feel the salty breeze flow through your hair while you stroll through an Italian vineyard after sampling fine wine, meet Poland’s former President and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lech Wałęsa, or be enchanted by the strains of classical music performed by world-class musicians during private recitals in Western Europe. One of these experiences is bound to pique your interest and Ponant looks forward to sharing it with YOU!
Latin America/Caribbean Sailings
Explore the natural wonders of the Caribbean aboard PONANT’s 5-star, intimate yachts. Snorkel among the most exotic schools of fish in Belize, discover the majestic peaks of St. Lucia, and the volcanic island and sandy beaches of St, Kitts, just to name a few. These Caribbean voyages blend enchanting beaches, colonial architecture, and charming local culture for an idyllic luxury vacation.
Ponant’s online magazines & Brochures
SUMMER 2025
Inspiring Voyages – Summer around the world
Journey around the world with friends and family, or take in legendary sights on your own. Enjoy a reunion with crew members you’ve met on previous voyages, or, if it’s your first PONANT adventure, immerse yourself in the magical world of intimate, five-star ships. Fall in love with unfamiliar destinations or gain a new perspective on places you’ve already been. At PONANT, they offer a departure to match every desire.
CLOSE TO HOME
Places Unknown, Close to Home
Discovering the word doesn’t have to mean traveling to the furthest corners possible; sometimes it means simply opening your eyes to what surrounds you.
WINTER 2025-2026
An Invitation to Discover
Beyond the travel dreams that linger at the edges of your imagination, the world’s most captivating destinations entice curiosity, yet often seem just out of reach. From the southern-most sea on Earth where monumental icebergs shimmer like sculpted glass and Adelie penguins thrive in untamed rookeries, to the little-known Bissagos Islands off Africa’s western shores where mangroves hum with vibrant birdsong and ancestral ceremonies live on, PONANT reveals these elusive treasures in extraordinary ways both immersive and transformative.
Escales now has a brand new look!
With inspiring photos, a sleek layout, easier searching, and streamlined mobile browsing, Escales magazine’s new format brings your dreams of faraway places to stunning, vibrant life.
In May 2011, l’Austral joined PONANT’s fleet. This superb mega-yacht with 132 staterooms is the result of the expertise of the Italian Fincantieri shipyard and French sophistication, as interpreted by designer Jean-Philippe Nuel. L’Austral remains faithful to their philosophy – to create a unique …
You’ll Savor the Experience
Discover Europe with PONANT and you will explore the local culture through its cuisine. In Italy, you can follow proper spaghetti etiquette by twirling it on a spoon with their fork; while in Spain you can share a meal of paella with friends; and after a day exploring the Norwegian Fjords, you can treat yourselves to kaffe og kake—coffee and cake. Wherever you choose to cruise in Europe, PONANT offers a delightful temptation for every taste.
Northern Europe & the British Isles
Dig into the meat and potatoes of Northern Europe. Sample Icelandic Hákarl (fermented shark), Karelian pasty in Estonia, and Norway’s traditional game and fish.
SEE THE CRUISE ►
The Mediterranean & Southern Europe
Olive oil, grapes, and wheat are the main ingredients of the Mediterranean diet. From pasta to spanakopita, meals are complimented by bread, wine, and lively conversation.
SEE THE CRUISE ►
An Immersion in Japanese Culture
Be enlightened by Japan’s art, culture and cuisine. Try your hand at rolling sushi, explore modern cities, admire ancient shrines, and enjoy a traditional Geisha performance.
A World Affairs Cruise in the Baltic
Featuring discussions aboard with author Robin Wright, Ambassador Douglas Lute, Jane Holl Lute and a very special presentation by Lech Wałęsa.
A World Affairs Cruise in the Aegean
This voyage offers an opportunity to talk with leading thinkers on the world stage about the current state of U.S. relations with the wider world.
Epicurean Delights of the Adriatic
Feed your epicuriosity with Wine Spectator School-recommended wine educators on this moveable feast exploring the food and wine of Italy and Croatia.
Musical Odyssey in Western Europe
Join Michael Parloff and an ensemble of world-class musicians from Edinburgh to Lisbon with private recitals aboard ship and a performance ashore at a historic site.
Southern Italy & Sicily
This one-of-a-kind voyage in Southern Italy and Sicily is an opportunity to experience the various roles food and wine play in relation to physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
PONANT Yacht & Expedition Ships
L’AUSTRAL
LE SOLEAL
Modern interiors, comfortable public spaces and the ultimate technological advancements combine aboard luxurious ‘Le Soleal.’ A&K guests enjoy a maximum capacity of just 199 on their exclusively chartered voyages. Join us aboard ‘Le Soleal’ in Japan. Designed in 2013 and loyal to the PONANT spirit, Le Soléal like her sisterships embodies the subtle alliance between luxury, intimacy and wellbeing which is Ponant’s signature. The elegance of her exterior and interior lines and her intimate size (only 132 staterooms and suites)make this a rare…
All Le Soléal Sailings
LE CHAMPLAIN
As the second ship in the new Explorer series, Le Champlain will embody the unique atmosphere that is Ponant’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy & comfort. She offers innovative and environmentally-friendly hardware and elegantly designed accommodations with 100% balcony.
All Le Champlain Sailings
LE LAPEROUSE
As the first ship in the new Explorer series, Le Lapérouse will embody the unique atmosphere that is Ponant’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy & comfort. She offers innovative and environmentally-friendly hardware and elegantly designed accommodations with 100% balcony.
All Le Lapérouse Sailings
LE BOUGAINVILLE
The five-star Le Bougainville makes her maiden voyage in 2019. This small-capacity ship just 430 feet in length with just 92 staterooms features Blue Eye, the world’s first multi-sensory underwater lounge. Le Bougainville is also equipped with the latest environmental preservation technology.
All Le Bougainville Sailings
LE DUMONT-D’URVILLE
The five-star Le Dumont d’Urville makes her maiden voyage in 2019. This small-capacity ship just 430 feet in length with just 92 staterooms features Blue Eye, the world’s first multi-sensory underwater lounge. Le Dumont d’Urville is equipped with the latest environmental preservation technology.
All Le Dumont d’Urville Sailings
LE BELLOT
As the fifth ship in a new series that remains true to the Ponant spirit, Le Bellot will embody the unique atmosphere that is the cruise line’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy, and comfort.
All Le Bellot Sailings
LE JACQUES CARTIER
As the sixth ship in a new series that remains true to the Ponant spirit, Le Jacques Cartier will embody the unique atmosphere that is the cruise line’s hallmark: a subtle blend of refinement, intimacy and comfort.
All Le Jacques Cartier Sailings
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
As the world’s first PC2 hybrid-electric polar exploration ship powered by liquefied natural gas, Le Commandant-Charcot is specially designed to navigate the remote, seldom-visited sites of the polar regions to explore like never before. Journey to the geographical North Pole, discover the Northwest Passage or marvel at the Emperor penguins of Antarctica’s Bellingshausen Sea.
All Le Commandant Charcot Sailings
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