ocean Ship
Le Champlain
by Ponant
Le Champlain is one of Ponant’s state-of-the-art Explorer-class vessels, purpose-built for small-ship expeditions that prioritize immersive exploration and refined comfort. Named after the famed French navigator Samuel de Champlain, the ship carries just 184 guests and is designed to access hard-to-reach destinations without sacrificing elegance or service. From the warm waters of the Caribbean to the cultural coastlines of the Baltic, Le Champlain offers a seamless blend of modern design, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable travel practices.
The ship’s interiors reflect a distinctly French aesthetic—clean lines, calming tones, and understated sophistication. Thoughtfully designed public spaces include a panoramic lounge, library, and sundeck with an infinity pool. The ship also features a full-service spa, a gym, and a theatre that hosts lectures and cultural performances. One of Le Champlain’s most distinctive features is the Blue Eye Lounge, an underwater observation space where guests can listen to the sounds of the sea and view marine life through large porthole-like windows—a multisensory experience unique to Ponant’s Explorer-class.
Accommodations aboard Le Champlain are all outward-facing, with every stateroom and suite offering a private balcony. Rooms are designed for comfort and tranquility, with a palette inspired by the ocean and amenities that include rainfall showers, fine bedding, Wi-Fi, and luxury toiletries. The ambiance is quiet and tailored to relaxation, providing a peaceful retreat after active days of exploration.
Dining aboard the ship is a celebration of French and international cuisine, with two restaurants delivering high-quality meals in beautifully designed settings. The main restaurant offers refined, multi-course dinners with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and regional flavors, while the casual grill provides open-air dining with a more relaxed vibe. Meals are enhanced by an extensive wine list curated by Ponant’s sommeliers, offering pairings from top French vineyards and beyond.
Built with a deep commitment to sustainability, Le Champlain features advanced equipment that minimizes environmental impact, including dynamic positioning and a compact size that allows it to dock in smaller ports without disturbing sensitive ecosystems. Whether navigating coral-rich archipelagos or sailing along historical coastlines, the ship is supported by a team of expert guides and naturalists who provide insight into the cultures, wildlife, and landscapes visited. For travelers seeking a refined expedition experience that values both luxury and learning, Le Champlain offers a uniquely rewarding way to see the world.
484 sq. feet
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484 sq. feet
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344 sq. feet
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409 sq. feet
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290 sq. feet
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204 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.
