PONANT is extending its French Polynesian cruise portfolio with two distinct propositions, reflecting the range of experiences that the company offers. Le Jacques-Cartier will be positioned from September 2026 to March 2027 in the Polynesian and Pacific archipelagos offering a unique expedition experience, while the m/s Paul Gauguin continues its 25-year legacy of delivering authentic, culturally immersive voyages year-round.   “Paul Gauguin Cruises is French Polynesia’s Destination Expert and its award-winning m/s Paul Gauguin’s relaxed atmosphere and warm welcome have enchanted guests for more than 25 years,” Hervé Gastinel, CEO of the PONANT group, “With Le Jacques-Cartier, we are bringing a complementary offer, combining expertise in the destination and the PONANT DNA. We will offer an expedition cruise format, in direct contact with nature and local populations, with the 'French touch' that characterises us."   The m/s Paul Gauguin was specially designed to sail in the archipelagos of the South Pacific, as her reduced draft allows the ship to get much closer to shallower lagoons and remote islands. Extensively refurbished in 2021, there reigns on board a unique and genuine French Polynesian atmosphere, thanks mainly to Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins and their legendary hospitality. The musicians and dancers, whether aboard or ashore are the true ambassadors of French Polynesia, always keen to introduce guests to the wealth and diversity of island cultures. The French Polynesian way of life is a source of inspiration for the gastronomy, service, and design of the 165 staterooms and suites with views of the lagoons.   From summer 2026, Le Jacques-Cartier will offer a whole new experience where the exploration of nature takes centre stage. The multi-sensory Blue Eye Lounge really comes into its own as an ideal place to admire, listen and feel like you can almost touch the magical underwater world of biodiversity gems in the heart of Polynesian lagoons. Naturalist guides who are experts in this destination will be on board to introduce guests to the wonders of the fauna and flora while sailing and during zodiac landings. A themed line-up is designed to bring out all the history and cultures of the many archipelagos visited. The modular marina and semi-submerged platform provide easy access for swimming and a range of water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding, etc.) in idyllic environments.   “PONANT's expansion in French Polynesia marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to delivering unparalleled expedition experiences.” Says Deb Corbett, General Manager Sales and Marketing Asia Pacific, “With the introduction of Le Jacques-Cartier alongside the enduring legacy of m/s Paul Gauguin, we're unveiling two distinct avenues for travellers to delve into the rich tapestry of this breathtaking region. With these new offerings, we're not just providing travel experiences; we're facilitating profound connections with the wonders of French Polynesia. It's an invitation for guests to immerse themselves wholly in the essence of this remarkable region”.   Further deployment details on Le Jacques-Cartier will be announced soon.   m/s Paul Gauguin 2024 and 2025 sailings are still available to book. To view the full catalogue of itineraries, click here.

Paul Gauguin Cruises has partnered with the French Polynesian government to provide healthcare assistance in the region's isolated islands. The unique partnership aims to meet the health needs of people in remote areas in two ways: It will offer volunteer consultations by the shipboard doctors of the m/s Paul Gauguin during port calls; and provide transportation free of charge aboard The Gauguin to health professionals. The collaboration is a world first for the cruise industry. The cruise line has deep roots there and has called French Polynesia home for 25 years. The 'Taote Gauguin' (taote means doctor in Tahitian) partnership agreement was signed by Cédric Mercadal, French Polynesia's Minister of Health in charge of Prevention and Generalised Social Protection, and Florence Courbière, for Paul Gauguin Cruises and PONANT. "We welcome this public-private partnership to strengthen local care for the benefit of Polynesian families, particularly in remote archipelagos." Mercadal said. The testing phase of the collaboration, which included three shifts of medical consultations, took place during The Gauguin's July 29 to August 12 voyage to understand the program's logistics, and operational needs. "It was a very successful effort marked by over 20 consultations, three of whom were sent on board for X-rays." said Captain Michel Quioc. "Fatu Hiva has no medical imaging facilities so two ultrasounds were also carried out. The team was delighted to be able to provide such important medical services."    The program will feature 40 consultation shifts a year to citizens of the Marquesas, one of French Polynesia's more remote regions. The transport of medical specialists from Tahiti to these islands will double the medical presence with patients. "Small ship cruising has always held a unique promise of forging connections with local communities and this partnership is at the heart of our mission," says Deb Corbett, PONANT General Manager Sales & Marketing APAC.

 

Part Of New 2025 Boutique Crossing Collection

  Paul Gauguin Cruises, the award-winning luxury line renowned for its artfully authentic explorations of French Polynesia and the South Pacific, has announced a series of new itineraries part of their 2025 Boutique Crossing Collection cruising between Fiji, Bali, Singapore, Papua New Guinea and Australia. Three singular voyages of 14, 16 and 20 nights will delve into the natural wonders and cultural treasures of Oceania, Indonesia and Melanesia on exotic itineraries featuring maiden calls to Parai Beach and Surabaya in Indonesia.   These curated itineraries offered aboard the 330-guest m/s Paul Gauguin will feature a robust program of personal enrichment and destination immersion, taking full advantage of blissful days at sea and intriguing ports of call such as Espiritu Santo, Guadalcanal, Komodo Island, Semarang, and more.   “We are delighted to see our iconic ship visit this part of the world and call in Darwin, offering more opportunities for our Australian and New Zealand guests to experience Paul Gauguin Cruises’ outstanding service and comfort” said Deb Corbett, General Manager Sales & Marketing for Asia Pacific. “It is really exciting to see The Gauguin expand into new territories, especially those that are closer to home for the Australian and New Zealand market.”   ITINERARIES & HIGHLIGHTS   With overnights and extended stays, each itinerary in the Boutique Crossing Collection is designed to reveal the extraordinary ecosystems of islands known for their marine life and biodiversity as well as their welcoming cultures:   Crossing Oceania: Lautoka, Viti Levu, Fiji to Benoa Bali   Leaving from Lautoka in Fiji, this unique 21-day cruise explores 6 magnificent countries in the South Seas. On board The Paul Gauguin, guests will discover untamed nature on the paradise islands of Vanuatu, the Solomons, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Indonesia. Highlights of the itinerary include exploring Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous not only for its namesake ‘dragon’ – the world’s largest lizard – but also for its gorgeous landscape of rugged hills, pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters rich with marine life.   From Fiji to Bali – 21 days, 20 nights 1 departure from 19 January to 8 February 2025 From AUD 11,980 per person* Savings up to 30% with PONANT Bonus* FREE Solo supplement available – conditions apply. Find out more about this sailing   Immersive Indonesia: Singapore to Darwin, Australia    Leaving from the multicultural and contrasting city of Singapore, this all-new 15-day journey explores the heart of the Java, Flores, Banna and Timor Seas. Guests will enjoy unique moments including world-class snorkelling amidst stunning coral reefs at Parai Beach, and a vibrant art scene and Javanese cuisine in culturally intriguing Surabaya. Guests will also discover the incredible UNESCO World-Heritage site of Borobudur in Semarang, the world’s largest Buddhist temple home to more than 500 Buddha statues and over 2,500 relief panels. From Singapore to Darwin – 15 days, 14 nights 1 departure from 1 April to 15 April 2025 From AUD 8,380 per person* Savings up to 30% with PONANT Bonus* FREE Solo supplement available – conditions apply. Find out more about this sailing   Crossing Melanesia: Darwin, Australia to Lautoka, Viti Levu, Fiji   Leaving from Darwin, this unique 17-day journey features idyllic landscapes, lush nature and ancestral civilisations with secular traditions. Aboard Le Paul Gauguin, set off to discover the ancestral lands of Australia and four Melanesian treasures: Papua New Guinea, the Vanuatu archipelago, the Solomons, and the Fiji Islands. The unique culture of Papua New Guinea’s Milne Bay people is witnessed in Alotau, while the region’s stunning coral reefs, tropical rainforests, and WWII historical sites invite discovery. From Darwin to Fiji – 17 days, 16 nights 1 departure from 15 April to 1 May 2025 From AUD 9,590 per person* Savings up to 30% with PONANT Bonus* FREE Solo supplement available – conditions apply. Find out more about this sailing   All three crossings are part of The Gauguin’s 2025 deployment: 29 cruises offering 11 unique itineraries of 7 to 20 nights, including a new 10-night More Tuamotus and the Society Islands featuring another first of the line – an overnight stay in Fakarava, Tuamotus, famous for its UNESCO Marine Biosphere.   Designed specifically to sail the pristine lagoons of the South Seas, The Gauguin is eminently at home amidst these idyllic isles. Evoking a chic, contemporary ambience, the beloved ship welcomes with a relaxed, easy elegance. Indulgent suites and spacious staterooms – many with a private balcony – exceptional cuisine, authentic explorations ashore, a commitment to sustainability, and genuinely hospitable service all contribute to the ship’s stellar reputation.   *Price is per person in the best available category, based on double occupancy, and may change at any time without notice. The PONANT bonus is yield managed and may change at any time without notice. For full terms and conditions, visit au.ponant.com or talk to your travel agent. Free solo supplement is subject to terms and conditions. Paul Gauguin Cruises is part of PONANT. 

 

As the fine weather returns, the urge to escape to sunny destinations grows, be it as a couple or with family and friends. From the Mediterranean region to the outer limits of French Polynesia, here are six of the best PONANT Spring-Summer 2022 cruises to get right away to blue skies and sunshine.

  From Croatia to Corsica, the Dalmatian coast to the Cyclades, and as far as the Society Islands, this selection of PONANT’s most beautiful itineraries offers a compendium of cultural, architectural, historic, and natural heritage.   A whole range of activities await according to the destination, including zodiac outings, scuba diving, water sports, hiking, exploring the terroir and culture talks, far from the hectic pace of city life.   Find more details on these cruises   The best of Croatia   During this cruise, the Dalmatian coast with its turquoise blue waters never fails to enchant. Starting from Venice, this voyage explores all the cultural, gastronomic, and natural treasures of the Adriatic Sea, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The ship sets course for Korcula, birthplace of Marco Polo, Split’s architectural jewels, Kotor the pearl of the Adriatic, then Hvar and the picturesque town of Rovinj, before returning to Venice and its lagoon.   “The best of Croatia”   Venice – Venice aboard Le Jacques-Cartier and Le Lyrial. 8 sailings from 7 June to 26 August 2022, 8 days – 7 nights   From £3,770 – Find more details on this cruise   Wild and authentic Corsica   With its luminous white cliffs, rocky inlets in coves of transparent waters, and bright sunshine, Corsica is a haven of peace. This circumnavigation of Corsica has been conceived by PONANT to reveal the most secret hidden away places, far from the crowds. This voyage is also an opportunity to discover or rediscover the joys of scuba diving and to meet a dazzling diversity of marine wildlife and flora.   “Wild and authentic Corsica”   Nice – Nice aboard Le Bougainville. 3 sailings from 6 to 20 June 2022, 8 days – 7 nights   From £3,270 - Find more details on this cruise   From the canals of Venice to the city of gods   Departing from Venice and its lagoon, the ship explores the pearls of the Dalmatian coast and Montenegro’s most beautiful bays in the blue waters of the Adriatic, Ionian and Aegean seas. After setting course for the Greek islands of Itea and Corfu, the most famous town of this Ionian archipelago, the ship crosses the Corinth Canal before arriving in Athens.   “From the canals of Venice to the city of gods”   Venice – Athens aboard Le Lyrial. 3 sailings from 27 May to 19 August 2022, 8 days – 7 nights   From £2,840 – Find more details on this cruise   At the heart of the Greek islands   A flagship destination, Greece overflows with turquoise blue waters and heavenly fine sandy beaches where it is good to bathe and bask in the sun. From the Cyclades to the Dodecanese, drifting from island to island discovering stunning landscapes, this cruise offers a taste of Greek-style dolce vita. This enchanting break away from it all, is also an opportunity to be immersed in Greek myths and legends on the many cultural excursions to ancient heritage sites in the Aegean Sea.   “At the heart of the Greek islands”   Athens – Athens aboard Le Lyrial, Le Jacques-Cartier and Le Bougainville.   7 sailings from 12 July to 23 September 2022, 8 days – 7 nights   From £2,870 – Find more details on this cruise   Turkish shores and Greek archipelagos of the Aegean   At sunset, the Aegean Sea unveils a dream panorama, from the shores of the Bosphorus to the Dodecanese and Cyclades archipelagos. These tiny Mediterranean wonderlands harbour countless picturesque villages and coves, lapped by crystal clear waters that are ideal for bathing and lying in the sun. This cruise is also a chance to be immersed in the history of the region and explore the many cultural sites at the crossroads of East and West.   “Turkish shores and Greek archipelagos of the Aegean”   Istanbul – Istanbul aboard Le Bougainville. 2 sailings from 10 to 20 July 2022, 11 days – 10 nights   From £4,640 – Find more details on this cruise   Tahiti and the Society Islands   Those who love wildlife and lush vegetation will be seduced by this cruise against an idyllic backdrop of the South Pacific. From Papeete, the ship will set sail for the Society Islands:  Huahine, Motu Mahana, Bora Bora and Moorea. It is a unique opportunity to explore the coral gardens on snorkelling and underwater trails which are home to thousands of tropical fish. Or just to stroll along the white sandy beaches fringing turquoise blue lagoons in a heavenly setting.   “Tahiti and the Society Islands”   Papeete – Papeete aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin. 9 sailings from 30 April to 12 November 2022, 8 days – 7 nights   From £3,550 – Find more details on this cruise   For more information on booking conditions see Our Ultra Serenity policy

 

Sarina Bratton, Asia Pacific Chairman of PONANT & Paul Gauguin Cruises has selected a June 2022 voyage on board the newly renovated Le Paul Gauguin for the company’s annual Chairman’s cruise, offering an itinerary discovering the magic of French Polynesia including Tahiti, the Society Islands and the Tuamotus. 

    Exclusive to Australia & New Zealand guests who have yet to experience the magic of French Polynesia with the authentic, magical small-ship spirit of PONANT, the 11-night voyage will offer an exclusively curated itinerary of shore excursions and experiences as they sail through the idyllic islands and atolls helmed by stunning clear-water lagoons and exceptional coral reefs.   After nearly two years of international border closures, Ms Bratton said she’s excited to have chosen Le Paul Gauguin for her annual Chairman cruise and to return to French Polynesia and participate in the bespoke offerings specifically designed for the voyage.   “Paul Gauguin Cruises joined the PONANT family in 2019 and Le Paul Gauguin was refurbished earlier this year, so this will be the first time we are able to showcase it’s magnificence to our Australian and New Zealand guests,” she said.   Swimming, diving, sailing, paddle-boarding, and snorkelling are just some of the additional activities on offer to enjoy to the full these picture postcard landscapes. Together with Mick Fogg, Expedition Manager Asia Pacific, Paul Gauguin Cruises has hand-crafted an exceptional itinerary, showcasing spectacular lagoons, diverse marine environment, pristine beaches, and colourful Tahitian culture.   As part of the bespoke small-ship itinerary, guests can select from unique and exclusive complimentary on shore activities and excursions at each disembarkation port. These include exploring Rangiroa’s spectacular marine life in the Tuamotu Islands; visiting Rangiroa’s Black Pearl Farm to learn about pearl cultivation; enjoying a breath-taking cruise of the lagoon of Fakarava; visiting the Marae with a Tahitian Dance Group; or spending an afternoon at leisure on the Private islet of Motu Mahana.   The itinerary will reach the wonderful Moorea and Bora Bora in the Society Islands with lush rainforests and pristine lagoons; the beauty of Huahine with its distinctly recognisable volcanic silhouettes; and in Tuamotus, Rangiroa, an enormous atoll with breath-taking underwater scenery, famous for black pearls.   Aboard the 2021 newly renovated ship by direction of award-winning French designer and architect Jean-Philippe Nuel, Le Paul Gauguin offers impeccable service and fine cuisine take inspiration from the French Polynesian lifestyle. With 165 staterooms and suites, the ship was designed to sail in Polynesian waters, her shallow draught allows her to get in close to shallow lagoons. In the heart of paradisical islands and the atolls of French Polynesia and its neighbouring archipelagos, the vessel invites guests to discover the traditional way of life and customs of Polynesia and the South Pacific.   Widely regarded as a visionary businesswoman and Australia’s ‘First Lady’ of cruising, Sarina Bratton has drawn on her love for discovery to redefine and promote the concept of small ship luxury expedition cruising for PONANT and is passionate to do the same with Paul Gauguin Cruises.   2022 Chairman Cruise to luxury French Polynesia   ITINERARY: The Society Islands & the Tuamotus    Departing from Papeete, Tahiti Island, this exceptional voyage takes you on a journey to discover Tahiti and the Society Islands, and the Tuamotus islands such as Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, Rangiroa, and Motu Mahana.   From Papeete to Papeete – 12 days, 11 nights Departs on 4 June 2022 from AUD 9,600 per person Savings of up to 15% with PONANT Bonus* Find more about the sailing   *Price is per person in the best available category, based on double occupancy, and my change at any time without notice. Savings advertised are based on the PONANT bonus. The PONANT bonus is yield managed and may change at any time without notice. For full terms and conditions, visit au.ponant.com.