PONANT EXPLORATIONS is expanding its science program this month, welcoming researchers from CSIRO, the University of Western Australia, Echos d’Océans and the Sydney Institute of Marine Science/IMOS, aboard Le Soléal to undertake scientific missions in the Kimberley.
These projects will investigate blue‑carbon ecosystems, marine plastic pollution and sea‑turtle habitat utilisation, generating data that strengthens long‑term environmental understanding and conservation in one of Australia’s most significant marine regions.
By providing access to remote environments that are difficult to reach through traditional research expeditions, PONANT EXPLORATIONS is deepening Australia’s scientific capability and supporting national climate and conservation priorities. Since 2024, PONANT Science has expanded beyond the polar regions to support missions in locations including the Kimberley, Macquarie Island and French Polynesia, reflecting our commitment to scientific collaboration and environmental stewardship.
At the same time, guests travelling on these two August departures will enjoy a uniquely immersive experience – witnessing real scientific discovery as it happens. Through onboard presentations, informal science sessions and day‑to‑day interactions with researchers, guests gain rare insight into the Kimberley’s ecosystems, culture and wildlife, enriching their expedition with deeper meaning and connection.
Across two voyages, researchers will map blue‑carbon habitats, analyse marine plastics in remote areas, and survey sea‑turtle nesting sites – all while guests explore one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations with expert naturalists and cultural guides. Learn more about these departures.
By integrating active research into its expedition voyages, PONANT EXPLORATIONS transforms exploration into an opportunity for discovery, conservation and collaboration. Researchers gain access to extraordinary environments that advance scientific understanding, while guests enjoy a richer, more purposeful connection to the Kimberley.
“I am thrilled that we can welcome researchers in the Kimberley region for the second year, a region that we care very much about as part of our Australian small-ship deployment. Enabling new discoveries and giving back to the Australian communities continues to be one of our core objectives and commitments”, said Deb Corbett, CEO Asia Pacific for PONANT EXPLORATIONS.
