ocean Ship
Le Bougainville
by Ponant
Le Bougainville is part of Ponant’s innovative Explorer-class fleet, offering a sophisticated small-ship experience for just 184 guests. Named after the French explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville, the ship combines sleek design, advanced sustainability features, and access to remote destinations—from the turquoise lagoons of the Indian Ocean to the historic ports of the Mediterranean. It delivers a seamless blend of modern elegance, immersive travel, and responsible cruising.
The interiors are inspired by contemporary French style, with clean lines, natural textures, and a calming palette of oceanic hues. Expansive windows invite in light and panoramic views, while public spaces include a panoramic lounge, infinity pool, spa, fitness room, library, and a theater for lectures and cultural performances. A signature feature of the ship is the Blue Eye Lounge, an underwater observatory where guests can listen to and observe marine life through curved, subaquatic windows.
All staterooms and suites face the sea, most with private balconies. Accommodations are minimalist yet luxurious, with high-end linens, rainfall showers, espresso machines, and sleek bathrooms. Dining is a highlight onboard, with a main restaurant serving gourmet French and international cuisine, and a more casual grill for al fresco meals. Menus often reflect the ship’s geographic journey and are paired with fine wines curated by onboard sommeliers.
Equipped with advanced eco-friendly systems—including dynamic positioning and shore power compatibility—Le Bougainville is designed to operate with minimal environmental impact. Expedition sailings are led by a seasoned team of naturalists and experts who guide Zodiac excursions and in-depth shore experiences. Blending comfort, culture, and conscious exploration, Le Bougainville offers a uniquely refined way to discover the world’s most captivating coastlines.
484 sq. feet
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484 sq. feet
-484 sq. feet
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344 sq. feet
-344 sq. feet
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409 sq. feet
-409 sq. feet
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290 sq. feet
-290 sq. feet
-290 sq. feet
-290 sq. feet
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205 sq. feet
-205 sq. feet
-205 sq. feet
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204 sq. feet
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Ponant Cruises is a world-renowned luxury cruise line, offering intimate, small-ship expeditions that blend refined French hospitality with immersive exploration. Since its founding in 1988, Ponant has redefined high-end cruising, providing tailor-made voyages to some of the world’s most remote and culturally rich destinations. With a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, Ponant delivers one-of-a-kind travel experiences that combine adventure, sophistication, and environmental responsibility.
Ponant’s state-of-the-art fleet consists of elegantly designed yachts and expedition vessels, built to offer a boutique-style cruise experience. Each ship features luxurious accommodations, world-class dining, and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, ensuring an intimate and exclusive journey.
One of Ponant’s most groundbreaking ships, Le Commandant Charcot, is the world’s first hybrid-electric polar exploration vessel powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). This ship exemplifies Ponant’s commitment to sustainable cruising, allowing travelers to venture deeper into polar regions with minimal environmental impact.
Ponant offers extraordinary voyages to destinations across the globe, from the icy landscapes of Antarctica and the Arctic to the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, the exotic islands of the South Pacific, and the vibrant cultures of Asia and Africa. Each itinerary is thoughtfully curated, blending wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and breathtaking natural scenery, all enhanced by Ponant’s signature French touch—from gourmet cuisine to refined onboard service.
Ponant is a pioneer in sustainable cruising, incorporating eco-friendly technologies and conservation initiatives into its operations. As the first European cruise line to earn the North American Green Alliance certification, Ponant is committed to reducing its carbon footprint, eliminating single-use plastics, and supporting scientific research and environmental preservation efforts in the destinations it explores.
At Small Ship Travel, we specialize in selecting the finest small-ship cruise experiences, ensuring that each voyage meets our rigorous standards for luxury, authenticity, and sustainability. After careful evaluation, we are proud to include Ponant Cruises in our curated collection, recognizing its commitment to refined adventure, environmental responsibility, and exceptional service.
Through our partnership with Ponant, we offer exclusive access, personalized itinerary planning, and seamless travel arrangements, ensuring a stress-free and unforgettable journey for our travelers.
By booking with Small Ship Travel, you receive expert recommendations, customized itineraries, and concierge-level service to enhance your Ponant Cruises experience. From pre- and post-cruise accommodations to exclusive shore excursions and private travel arrangements, we ensure that every aspect of your voyage is perfectly planned.
Sail the world in elegance with Ponant Cruises and Small Ship Travel—where luxury meets exploration in the most extraordinary destinations. Contact us today to begin planning your next journey.
Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.
