The idyllic waters of French Polynesia will soon welcome a new addition to its fleet of luxury cruise ships. Ponant, the parent company of the well-known Paul Gauguin cruise ship, has announced the deployment of one of its Explorer-class ships, Le Jacques Cartier, in the region from September 2026 to March 2027.
Le Jacques Cartier is set to offer a 14-day expedition experience, providing passengers with an immersive and nature-focused journey through the picturesque landscapes of French Polynesia. This new venture will complement the Paul Gauguin, which has been delivering culturally rich and authentic voyages in the region for the past 25 years.
In a statement, Ponant emphasized the unique features of Le Jacques Cartier, highlighting that the cruises will be staffed with destination experts who will guide and educate guests throughout their voyage. The ship is equipped with a modular marina and a semi-submerged platform, allowing easy access for various water activities such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
“French Polynesia is a very popular destination with our guests. We want to offer them a wide range of itineraries and experiences,” said Ponant CEO Hervé Gastinel. This initiative underscores Ponant’s commitment to providing diverse and enriching travel experiences.
Further details about Le Jacques Cartier’s itineraries in French Polynesia are expected to be released soon, promising prospective travelers a variety of options to explore this tropical paradise.
As Ponant expands its presence in French Polynesia, travelers can look forward to an enhanced selection of luxurious and culturally immersive cruises, making the most of the region’s natural beauty and vibrant heritage.
