Luxury French line Ponant has welcomed a ninth ship to their fleet and the fourth ship to join their Explorer Class of ships after taking delivery of Le Dumont-d’Urville.
The 184 passenger ship has 92 spacious rooms and suites all with balconies or private terraces.
The ship also stars the Explorer series’ signature “Blue Eye” underwater lounge which allows guests to experience the underwater world through two giant windows resembling the eyes of a whale looking out to sea.
The Blue Eye features non-intrusive underwater spotlights to reveal the views, while hydrophones capture the natural symphony of the sea. The area is furnished with “Body Listening” sofas that vibrate in unison with the sounds.
The luxury ship will also feature an infinity pool, outdoor bar, fitness centre, hair salon, spa, an 188-seat theatre and a main lounge.
There will be two French restaurants onboard with the main restaurant on Deck 4 fitting all cruisers in one sitting. The second, a small venue on Deck 3, will offer a more relaxed atmosphere and will seat 70.
Le Dumont-d’Urville’s maiden season will start on 7 August with an 8-night “Historic Cities of the Baltic Sea” cruise that will reveal the splendours of St Petersburg and the Baltic capitals.
The ship will then head for the French coasts and the Mediterranean.
The programs will “refined dining, wine tasting and music” giving guests the chance to “combine cultural passions and a love of travel”.
Ponant’s expansion continues with the line set to welcome Le Bellot in April 2020.