Ponant Explorations has introduced a new incentive in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys, offering a €500 shipboard credit per person on a selection of cultural expedition cruises scheduled for 2026 and 2027.

The offer applies to a curated range of Smithsonian departures and is designed to enhance the onboard experience while reinforcing the line’s positioning in expert-led, immersive travel.

Incentive targets culturally focused expedition travel

The promotion is available on eligible sailings across Ponant’s global portfolio, combining expedition cruising with the intellectual depth of Smithsonian Journeys’ programming. These voyages are typically led by experts and designed around history, science, culture and the natural world.

Bookings must be made by 30 June 2026, with the credit applied per guest for use onboard.

Flexible offer with multiple stacking benefits

The €500 credit can be combined with a number of existing Ponant incentives, including Ponant Bonus savings, back-to-back voyage discounts, referral benefits and Ponant Yacht Club privileges.

Select departures also include a free solo supplement, expanding accessibility for individual travellers.

However, the offer does not apply to event-based sailings or group bookings.

Strategic positioning in premium expedition segment

The collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys continues to play a key role in Ponant’s strategy to differentiate through enrichment-led travel experiences rather than traditional luxury cruising alone.

By pairing onboard credit with educational programming, the initiative aims to drive bookings while appealing to travellers seeking depth, expertise and cultural context in their journeys.