Ponant Explorations: Explore the World in French-Inspired Luxury

All-Inclusive, Elegantly French Experience

Every PONANT voyage blends French art de vivre with the spirit of exploration. From fine dining crafted by French chefs to premium wines and Champagne, everything onboard is designed to feel effortless, elegant, and inclusive.

Included in Your Voyage:

• All gourmet meals curated by Ducasse Conseil chefs
• Open bar with premium wines, spirits, and Champagne
• 24-hour room service and in-suite dining
• Complimentary WiFi throughout the ship
• Port taxes and fees
• Onboard entertainment and enrichment programs
• Polar parkas and boots provided on expedition voyages
• Naturalist-guided excursions (Zodiac landings on expedition cruises)

Additional Options:

• Private shore excursions and overland adventures
• Spa treatments and salon services
• Boutique and fine art purchases
• Optional premium wines and vintage selections

Small Ships, Grand Experiences

PONANT’s intimate yachts carry between 92 and 264 guests, offering a refined atmosphere and one of the best staff-to-guest ratios at sea. Every voyage feels private, personal, and deeply immersive—balancing comfort with adventure.

Discreet French Service & Elegance

With a bilingual French crew trained in luxury hospitality, PONANT delivers a service experience that is both intuitive and understated. Expect Michelin-inspired cuisine, curated wine pairings, and a graceful, welcoming atmosphere throughout your journey.

• Fine French dining by Ducasse Conseil chefs
• Personalized attention by experienced crew
• Daily turndown service and in-suite dining
• Concierge assistance for custom arrangements
• Elegant onboard ambiance with French flair

Immersive Expeditions Led by Experts

PONANT is a pioneer in expedition cruising, combining state-of-the-art ships with seasoned expedition leaders, naturalists, and scientists. Each voyage is designed to reveal the essence of a destination—from Arctic glaciers to tropical lagoons—with respect for local cultures and ecosystems.

Sustainability and Responsible Exploration

Every PONANT journey is guided by a deep commitment to sustainable exploration. The line operates hybrid-electric vessels and partners with scientific missions to protect fragile environments while providing guests with meaningful, low-impact discovery.

• New hybrid and LNG-powered ships reducing emissions
• Plastic-free policy and advanced waste management
• Partnerships with scientists and NGOs
• Lectures on climate, wildlife, and local heritage
• Eco-certified itineraries respecting UNESCO sites

Signature Features in All Ponant Suites

• All suites feature private balconies with panoramic ocean views
• Elegant contemporary design by Jean-Philippe Nuel and Studio Jean-Philippe
• Luxury French bath amenities by Diptyque or Hermès (depending on ship)
• King-size or twin beds with fine linens and pillow menu
• Spacious bathrooms with walk-in rain showers
• Complimentary minibar restocked daily
• Flat-screen TV with on-demand entertainment and satellite channels
• 24-hour room service with selections from the restaurant menu
• Individual climate control and Bluetooth sound system
• Butler service in Prestige Suites and above

Suite Categories Explained

Deluxe Stateroom

204 sq. ft. with a 43 sq. ft. private balcony. A bright and tranquil space with ocean views, king or twin beds, and a marble-accented bathroom. Perfect for travelers seeking comfort and simplicity with Ponant’s refined style.

Prestige Stateroom

204 sq. ft. with balcony. Located on higher decks, offering enhanced views and convenient access to ship facilities. Features include a modern design, adjustable lighting, and in-room dining service.

Deluxe Suite

291 sq. ft. with a 65 sq. ft. balcony. Includes a spacious lounge area, elegant bathroom, and large windows that invite abundant natural light. Complimentary laundry service and butler service are included.

Prestige Suite

409 sq. ft. with a 86 sq. ft. balcony. Combines two interconnecting Prestige Staterooms, creating a private haven with separate sleeping and living areas—ideal for longer voyages or families traveling together.

Owner’s Suite

484 sq. ft. with a 322 sq. ft. terrace. The most exclusive accommodation aboard Ponant. Features a spacious living room, separate bedroom, full dining area, and a large private terrace with sun loungers and jacuzzi (on select ships). Includes priority embarkation and personalized concierge service.

Signature Dining Venues

• Le Nautilus: The main restaurant on Ponant’s Explorer-class and Sister ships. Serves refined French and international cuisine using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Open seating for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with elegant service and ocean views.
• Le Grill: An inviting indoor-outdoor venue ideal for casual dining. Enjoy grilled meats, seafood, salads, and daily specials under the open sky. Often used for themed dinners or barbecues at sea.
• Le Goûter: A beloved Ponant tradition—afternoon tea served daily with French pastries, macarons, and freshly brewed coffee or tea. A refined ritual that captures the essence of French hospitality.
• Specialty Menus: On select voyages, Ponant collaborates with Michelin-starred chefs or Relais & Châteaux partners to present exclusive tasting menus inspired by the destinations visited.
• Wine & Champagne Selection: Each meal is complemented by a curated wine list featuring celebrated French vineyards and global vintages, included as part of Ponant’s all-inclusive experience.

In-Suite Dining

Guests may dine in the privacy of their stateroom or suite at any time of day. Enjoy a continental breakfast on your private balcony, a romantic dinner for two, or a light meal prepared to order—all served with Ponant’s signature French flair and attention to detail.

Culinary Enrichment & Experiences

Ponant’s voyages celebrate the art of French living through culinary discovery. Enjoy wine tastings led by expert sommeliers, regional ingredient workshops, and destination-themed menus reflecting local culture and produce. On select expeditions, guest chefs join onboard for immersive gastronomic journeys.

Pricing and Value

Ponant offers an elegant, all-inclusive experience that combines French refinement with small-ship exploration. Pricing varies by destination, voyage length, and suite category.

Typical 7-Night Pricing (per person, double occupancy):

• Deluxe Stateroom: $4,000–$6,000
• Prestige Suite: $6,500–$9,500
• Owner’s Suite: $10,000–$18,000+

Expedition and polar voyages, including Antarctica and the Arctic aboard Le Commandant Charcot, range from $9,000–$35,000 per person, reflecting the rare destinations, scientific enrichment, and expedition logistics included.

What’s Included

• All onboard meals crafted by French chefs
• Fine wines, champagne, and premium spirits throughout the ship
• Open bar and 24-hour room service
• Complimentary WiFi for all guests
• Excursions included on most Expedition itineraries
• Gratuities for all onboard staff
• Enrichment lectures and destination briefings
• Still and sparkling water, espresso, and specialty coffees

Additional Budget Considerations:

• Optional private excursions or helicopter experiences (select ships)
• Spa and wellness treatments
• Premium boutique purchases
• Pre- and post-cruise hotel stays
• Medical evacuation coverage for remote expeditions

Air Arrangements

• Guests are encouraged to arrive at least one day prior to embarkation for a relaxed start to their voyage.
• StarsDesk assists with business and first-class air bookings, ensuring seamless connections and premium cabin experiences.
• Preferred airline partners and flexible fare options support customized itineraries and frequent-flyer benefits.
• Chartered and expedition air packages are available for select polar and remote voyages.

Transfers

• Shared or private transfers between airport, hotel, and pier can be pre-arranged at the time of booking.
• Luxury vehicles and English-speaking drivers provide a refined and comfortable experience upon arrival.
• Helicopter or zodiac transfers may be included for select expedition itineraries, depending on destination and vessel.

Embarkation

• Boarding typically begins in the early afternoon and continues until late afternoon, depending on the port.
• Guests are welcomed with Champagne and light refreshments as they settle into their stateroom or suite.
• A safety briefing and introduction to the expedition or hospitality team are held prior to departure.
• Ships usually set sail between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM, followed by a festive welcome dinner.

Documentation Requirements

• Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond your voyage completion date. Required for all international and expedition itineraries.
• Visas: Most destinations do not require visas for U.S. and EU passport holders; specific requirements are advised at booking.
• Health & Vaccinations: Medical and vaccination protocols (particularly for polar regions) are communicated before departure. Medical certificates may be requested for certain expeditions.

What to Pack & Dress Code

Dress Code Philosophy:

Ponant embraces an elegant, relaxed French lifestyle—refined yet informal. Guests are encouraged to dress comfortably during the day and stylishly in the evening, without the need for formal wear.

Daytime

• Resort casual: lightweight linens, polos, dresses, and comfortable shoes for shore visits
• Sun protection: hats, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen
• Swimwear for the pool, spa, or onboard marina (seasonal)

Evening

• Smart casual: dresses, trousers, or skirts for women; slacks and collared shirts for men
• Jackets are optional but appreciated during dinners and captain’s cocktail evenings
• No formal nights or tuxedos required—elegance comes naturally aboard Ponant

Expedition Voyages

• Waterproof parka provided for all polar expeditions
• Layered clothing, thermal base layers, and gloves recommended
• Sturdy, waterproof boots (provided on Antarctic and Arctic sailings)
• Binoculars and camera gear suggested for wildlife viewing