ocean Ship
Le Ponant
by Ponant
Le Ponant is Ponant’s iconic three-masted sailing yacht and the namesake of the company, embodying the spirit of authentic, wind-powered exploration with refined French elegance. With a capacity of just 32 guests across 16 staterooms, Le Ponant offers a uniquely intimate and exclusive cruising experience that feels more like a private yacht than a traditional ship. Following a complete renovation in 2022, the vessel was reimagined to reflect Ponant’s commitment to sustainable luxury, contemporary design, and experiential travel—perfect for travelers seeking quiet sophistication and meaningful connection to nature.
As a true sailing yacht, Le Ponant harnesses the power of the wind wherever possible, creating a serene and eco-conscious voyage with minimal engine noise and reduced environmental impact. The sleek white hull, expansive teak decks, and billowing sails evoke a classic maritime aesthetic, while the interiors have been fully redesigned in a modern, minimalist style. Natural materials, neutral tones, and panoramic windows create a light-filled, open atmosphere that draws attention to the sea and landscapes beyond.
Staterooms are spread across three decks, all outward-facing, with clean, nautical-inspired decor and thoughtful touches such as organic cotton linens, rainfall showers, and eco-friendly amenities. The intimate size of the yacht ensures exceptional attention to detail, with a high staff-to-guest ratio and a relaxed, unhurried pace. Guests often find themselves enjoying long, alfresco meals, spontaneous swims in secluded bays, or sunset cocktails on deck with no crowds and no distractions.
Dining on Le Ponant is a refined and leisurely affair. The onboard chef crafts menus that showcase Mediterranean and international cuisine, often inspired by the destinations visited and complemented by carefully selected wines. Meals are served in an open-air setting whenever weather permits, reinforcing the connection between travel, place, and cuisine.
In line with Ponant’s sustainable travel philosophy, Le Ponant is equipped with advanced green technologies and operates under sail whenever possible to reduce emissions. The yacht is ideal for accessing remote anchorages, pristine marine environments, and lesser-known islands that are off-limits to larger ships. Itineraries are thoughtfully curated for those seeking privacy, cultural immersion, and ecological awareness, with shore experiences led by expert guides, historians, and naturalists.
Whether sailing through the hidden coves of the Cyclades, the turquoise waters of the Seychelles, or the tranquil harbors of Corsica, Le Ponant delivers a rare kind of voyage—one that is quietly luxurious, environmentally conscious, and deeply attuned to the rhythms of the sea.
506 sq. feet
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527 sq. feet
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323 sq. feet
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172 sq. feet
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205 sq. feet
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291 sq. feet
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237 sq. feet
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172 sq. feet
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151 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.
