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PONANT has achieved the prestigious honour of receiving two readers’ awards via internationally acclaimed Condé Nast Traveler magazine, which has asked readers to vote each year for their favourite travel experiences and destinations since its launch 35 years ago.

In the cruise line category PONANT was voted the best cruise line in the world in the ‘Small Ships’ category with fewer than 500 guests as well as winning the prestigious ‘Expedition Ships’ category. Paul Gauguin Cruises which was acquired by PONANT in 2019 also achieved second place in the ‘Small Ships’ category behind PONANT.

Meaningful expedition voyages

It represents invaluable recognition for the French shipowner, which has been committed to more responsible tourism and meaningful exploration voyages for over 30 years. The 13-strong fleet of small capacity ships offers guests personalised refined service. Determined to protect marine ecosystems, PONANT has fitted its ships with the latest generation of eco-equipment to minimise its impact on the environment, including use of Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil, shore power connections to use in ports with this facility and the elimination of single-use plastic. The company has installed systems that produce drinking water from seawater, saving on use of almost a million plastic bottles a year, that totals 30-plus tonnes of plastic.

Art de vivre à la française with cuisine by Ducasse Conseil

PONANT has created a whole new art of travel by sea based on exploration aboard ships offering an atmosphere of refinement and privacy. Attentive service and comfort reflect all that is best in the French way of life, while the modern, welcoming design of its ships offers guests an air of authenticity; a source of inspiration to access treasures on land by sea, with all staterooms having an outside terrace.

As everywhere in France, gastronomy is hugely important to PONANT. Since 2016, the company has been partnered with Ducasse Conseil, the expert catering division of Ducasse Paris, to develop a unique culinary experience.  Local produce and products are given pride of place, while retaining the French touch from Clarins and Dyptique bath products to Ladurée macaroons and Jean-Yves Bordier butter.

Set sail on a voyage of exploration or an expedition near you

With incredible itineraries across the globe, PONANT is renowned for crafting exceptional immersive expeditions that are both adventurous and luxurious. Among the favourite destinations for Australians and New Zealanders include the annual Kimberley season from April until September which will welcome Le Ponant for its 2023 season in addition to Le Lapérouse and Le Jacques-Cartier, as well as must-visit destination Antarctica now also offered as an experience on board the world’s only luxury icebreaker, Le Commandant Charcot.