PONANT EXPLORATIONS is welcoming a curated line-up of Australian special guests onboard its 2027 and 2028 voyages, offering guests the opportunity to enhance their experience sailing in some of the world’s most extraordinary destinations. As part of PONANT EXPLORATIONS’ enrichment programme, guests will be joined by acclaimed Australian chef Alastair McLeod, coral biologist Dr. Emma Camp and Australian sporting legend and broadcaster Ian Healy AO, who will each share their expertise, personal experiences and stories throughout three exceptional voyages.
Alastair McLeod, Celebrity Chef
Renowned Australian chef and television personality Alastair McLeod became a household name following more than 200 appearances on Network Ten’s Ready Steady Cook and has spent the past 17 years as a presenter on Channel Seven’s Weekender. His television career has also included Iconic Rail Journeys, 10 Minute Kitchen and regular appearances on SBS’s The Cook Up with Adam Liaw.
A highly experienced traveller and culinary host, Alastair has created memorable gastronomic experiences across the world, including previous culinary adventures at sea. His connection with PONANT EXPLORATIONS began with an Antarctic cooking demonstration experience on the pool deck of Le Boréal in 2024, surrounded by glaciers and icebergs.
Based in Queensland, Alastair is also the co-owner, alongside his wife Ashleigh, of Al’FreshCo Catering, where the couple celebrates the best of regional produce with a cuisine that is generous, authentic and free from pretension.
In July 2027, Alastair will return to PONANT EXPLORATIONS for another culinary experience at sea, joining guests in Western Australia aboard Le Soléal.
“Australia’s West Coast Odyssey”
Broome (Australia) to Fremantle (Australia), from 29 Jul 27 to 8 Aug 27, departure aboard Le Soléal, 11 days, 10 nights.
From AU $17,470 per person.
Learn more about this voyage
Emma Camp, Coral Biologist
Dr. Emma Camp is a leading coral biologist and ocean advocate whose pioneering research explores how corals can survive and adapt to some of the world’s most extreme marine environments. Her work spans remote Pacific reefs including the Cook Islands and Society Islands, where diverse lagoons and reef systems reveal how temperature, light and water chemistry shape coral resilience.
As Team Leader of the Future Reefs Program at the University of Technology Sydney, a National Geographic Explorer, 2026 Explorers Club 50 honouree and Rolex Associate Laureate, Emma has led expeditions across some of the world’s most remote reef environments and has become a leading voice in marine conservation. She also co-founded coral restoration initiatives and works with Indo-Pacific communities to protect reefs, translating research into practical conservation solutions.
In November 2027, Dr. Camp will join PONANT EXPLORATIONS as a special enrichment guest aboard Le Paul Gauguin, bringing her expertise and passion for ocean exploration to a journey through some of the Pacific’s most extraordinary reef systems.
“Cook Islands & Society Islands”
Papeete, Tahiti Island (French Polynesia) to Papeete, Tahiti Island (French Polynesia), from 6 Nov to 17 Nov 27, departure aboard Le Paul Gauguin, 12 days, 11 nights.
From AU $10,830 per person.
Learn more about this voyage
Ian Healy AO, Australian Sporting hero
As one of Australia’s most respected sporting figures, Ian Healy enjoyed a remarkable international career as the Australian Test team’s wicketkeeper from 1988 to 1999. During his career, he represented Australia in 119 Test matches and 168 One Day Internationals, finishing with a record 395 Test dismissals.
A member of both the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame and Sport Australia Hall of Fame, Ian’s contribution to Australian sport was further recognised with his appointment as an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO).
Following his retirement from cricket, Ian established himself as one of Australia’s most recognised cricket commentators and engaging keynote speaker. Renowned for his warmth, humour and engaging storytelling, he draws on more than a decade at the highest level of international sport to share insights into leadership, teamwork, resilience and performing under pressure.
As a special enrichment guest aboard an Antarctica expedition, Ian brings his passion for exploration, adventure and lifelong learning to the world’s most extraordinary wilderness. Guests will enjoy exclusive presentations, informal conversations and unique opportunities to hear firsthand stories from one of Australia’s greatest sporting icons while experiencing the breathtaking landscapes of the White Continent.
