PONANT Doubles Down in French Polynesia
by Dori Saltzman
Photo: Ponant Studio - Juliette LeClercq
Starting in Sept. 2026, Ponant is expanding its presence in French Polynesia with two distinct offerings: the m/s Paul Gauguin and the Le Jacques Cartier.
While Paul Gauguin remains in the region year-round, Le Jacques Cartier will sail in and around the Polynesian and Pacific archipelagos from Sept. 2026 to March 2027. The Explorer-class ship will offer an all-new 14-day expedition experience that puts nature center stage.
“French Polynesia is a very popular destination with our guests,” 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.”
A highlight of the Le Jacques Cartier is the Blue Eye Lounge, which is located underwater and features two eye-shaped portholes and the piped in sounds of the underwater world to give cruisers a look at what’s beneath the waves. A modular marina and semi-submerged platform provides easy access for swimming and watersports.
The sailings will also feature naturalist guides to educate passengers about the fauna and flora of the islands while sailing and during Zodiac landings.
Further deployment details on Le Jacques Cartier will be announced soon.
