PONANT and PASPALEY will debut their new boutique expedition motor yacht PASPALEY PEARL by PONANT in the Kimberley in 2024, in a partnership made in luxury heaven (no pearly gates puns please).
The French-flagged expedition cruise line and luxury pearling company will launch their joint venture in June next year, ushering in what they call “a new era of luxury explorations in the Kimberley”.
With year-round operations, the 30-guest vessel will offer “diverse” seven, 10, 12 and 14-night journeys through the Kimberley, Indonesia (Raja Ampat & Spice Islands) and Papua New Guinea.
It will also be the only expedition motor yacht in the Kimberley with private balconies.
PONANT Chairwoman Asia Pacific Sarina Bratton AM said the new vessel marked “a milestone in the development of boutique expedition travel”.
“We are proud to offer a new and different standard of excellence in this pristine region,” she stated.
“With our long-term relationship and vast combined experience, this venture is a testament to our joint commitment to sharing unique and exclusive experiences to discerning travellers.”
PASPALEY Executive Chairman Nicholas Paspaley AC said the “in-depth immersion into and understanding of the pearling industry will enrich many”.
“Sharing the routes that my crew and I pioneered in the 1970s onboard our pearl luggers will provide wonderful opportunities for guests,” he said.
PONANT and PASPALEY have a combined history of more than 85 years of expertise in the Kimberley region and remote maritime operations.
With their new venture, they hope to deliver an “unprecedented level of excellence to travellers seeking extraordinary experiences in one of the world’s most unique destinations”, the cruise line said in a statement.
More details about the ship will be announced as they come to hand, while reservations will open in November.
PONANT currently operates 13 small ships that utilise state-of-the-art eco-friendly features.
Last month, the luxury cruise operator announced that it will now include one excursion per person and per stopover on all its voyages, starting with Australasia’s summer 2024-2025 season.
This week, the company welcomed Kristina Sambaher to the role of Business Development Manager for NSW and ACT.
