Ponant will extend its offering in French Polynesia with the positioning of Le Jacques-Cartier in the region, from September 2026 to March 2027, alongside the company’s m/s Paul Gauguin.
From 2026, Le Jacques-Cartier will be positioned in the Polynesian and Pacific archipelagos to offer expedition cruises, while the m/s Paul Gauguin continues its 25-year stint of delivering year-round immersive voyages.
“Paul Gauguin Cruises is French Polynesia’s destination expert and its award-winning m/s Paul Gauguin’s relaxed atmosphere and warm welcome have enchanted guests for more than 25 years,” said Hervé Gastinel, CEO of the PONANT group.
“With Le Jacques-Cartier, we are bringing a complementary offer, combining expertise in the destination and the Ponant DNA. We will offer an expedition cruise format, in direct contact with nature and local populations, with the ‘French touch’ that characterises us.”
Deb Corbett, General Manager Sales and Marketing Asia Pacific commented: “Ponant’s expansion in French Polynesia marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to delivering unparalleled expedition experiences,” said Deb.
“With the introduction of Le Jacques-Cartier alongside the enduring legacy of m/s Paul Gauguin, we’re unveiling two distinct avenues for travellers to delve into the rich tapestry of this breathtaking region,” she said.
“With these new offerings, we’re not just providing travel experiences – we’re facilitating profound connections with the wonders of French Polynesia. It’s an invitation for guests to immerse themselves wholly in the essence of this remarkable region.”
From summer 2026, Le Jacques-Cartier will offer a new experience – with naturalist guides who are experts in this destination on board to introduce guests to the fauna and flora while sailing, and during zodiac landings. The modular marina and semi-submerged platform provide easy access for swimming and a range of water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding.
The m/s Paul Gauguin, extensively refurbished in 2021, was specially designed to sail in the archipelagos of the South Pacific, with a reduced draft that allows the ship to get much closer to shallow lagoons and remote islands.
Ponant has advised that further deployment details on Le Jacques-Cartier will be announced soon.
m/s Paul Gauguin 2024 and 2025 sailings are still available to book.
For more information, visit ponant.com
