From 2026, Ponant will extend its French Polynesian cruise portfolio to two offerings by positioning Le Jacques Cartier in the Polynesian and Pacific archipelagos from September 2026 to March 2027.
The EXPLORER ship will offer a new 14-day expedition experience in the region, while the m/s Paul Gauguin will continue its 25-year legacy of delivering authentic, culturally immersive voyages year-round.
From 06SEP, 2026, Le Jacques Cartier will offer all-new itineraries where the exploration of nature takes center stage. The ship’s multi-sensory underwater Blue Eye Lounge – with two portholes in the shape of a cetaceous eye and hydrophones integrated into the keel that retransmit the natural symphony of the deep water – will be an ideal place to admire, listen and feel as if almost touching the diverse underwater world in the heart of Polynesian lagoons. Naturalist guides who are experts in this destination will be on board to introduce guests to the wonders of the fauna and flora while sailing and during zodiac landings, while the modular marina and semi-submerged platform will provide easy access for swimming and a range of watersports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. A themed itinerary line-up will spotlight the history and cultures of the many archipelagos visited. Further deployment details on Le Jacques Cartier will be announced soon.
“French Polynesia is a very popular destination with our guests. We want to offer them a wide range of itineraries and experiences in line with what has forged our identity,” explains Hervé Gastinel, CEO of the PONANT group, “small French-flagged ships, committed to respecting the visited territories and minimizing our impact, all with PONANT’s refined and exclusive service.”
“Paul Gauguin Cruises is French Polynesia’s Destination Expert and its award-winning m/s Paul Gauguin’s relaxed atmosphere and warm welcome have enchanted guests for more than 25 years,” continues Hervé Gastinel. “With Le Jacques Cartier, we are bringing a complementary offer, combining expertise in the destination and the PONANT DNA. We will offer an expedition cruise format, in direct contact with nature and local populations, with the 'French touch' that characterizes us."
The m/s Paul Gauguin was specially designed to sail in the archipelagos of the South Pacific, as her reduced draft allows the ship to get much closer to shallower lagoons and remote islands. Extensively refurbished in 2021, the vessel retains a unique and genuine French Polynesian atmosphere, thanks mainly to Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins and their legendary hospitality. The musicians and dancers, whether aboard or ashore are the true ambassadors of French Polynesia, always keen to introduce guests to the wealth and diversity of island cultures. The French Polynesian way of life is a source of inspiration for the gastronomy, service and design of the 165 staterooms and suites with views of the lagoons.
