PONANT EXPLORATIONS Unveils Winter 2026/27 Central America/Caribbean Season
by Dori Saltzman
Le Bellot. Photo: StudioPONANT / Thibault Garnier
PONANT EXPLORATIONS has unveiled an extensive deployment of 48 voyages across 11 itineraries in Central America and the Caribbean for the 2026/27 winter season. Running from November 2026 through April 2027, the line will operate 34 Caribbean voyages and 14 Central America voyages, all ranging from seven to 12 nights.
The program will be run on four of the line’s 13 ships, including Le Bellot, Le Bougainville, Le Laperouse, and Le Ponant.
“This deployment represents our most comprehensive Central America and Caribbean season to date, offering travelers the perfect balance of exploration, education, and refined relaxation all delivered with our signature French flair,” said Samuel Chamberlain, CEO of PONANT EXPLORATIONS GROUP, Americas.
He added, “Our small ships can access remote, pristine destinations, allowing our guests to discover the authentic essence of these close-to-home regions while enjoying the joie de vivre for which our ships are known. Moreover, our commitment to sustainable cruising ensures we explore these fragile ecosystems responsibly, leaving minimal impact on the spectacular environments we visit.”
Highlights of the season include two Smithsonian Journeys voyages that feature two Smithsonian Journeys experts who provide lectures and discussions onboard, along with an included Smithsonian excursion or activity in each port of call. All Smithsonian Journeys voyages also include airport transfers on embarkation and disembarkation days.
The two Smithsonian Journeys are Panama & Costa Rica by Sea and Cruising the Caribbean’s Windward Islands.
PONANT in Central America
In Central America, PONANT’s voyages combine expedition adventure, scientific enrichment, and responsible exploration. All sailings are accompanied by naturalist guides and feature excursions that visit the rainforest, take in wildlife, and interact with the local community.
Itineraries include the seven-night Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, 10-night Secrets of Central America, and seven-night Central America Jewels & Panama Canal.
PONANT in the Caribbean
PONANT’s Caribbean itineraries explore the French West Indies, British Virgin Islands, and beyond, with each itinerary combining cultural immersion with nature-focused exploration.
Itineraries include the seven-night Reverie Under Sail in the Heart of the Lesser Antilles, seven-night Gliding the Waters of the Windward Islands, seven-night History and Culture Visiting Caribbean Jewels, seven-night Pearls of the Caribbean, seven-night Wonders of the Caribbean, nine-night Natural Sanctuaries & Heritage of the Caribbean, and 12-night Panama, Colombia, & Caribbean Islands.
