Ponant Explorations: The Spirit Of Yacht Cruising, À La Française

Ponant Explorations , now in its third decade of existence, offers guests the classic yachting experience: an unhurried pace, service that's tailored to a passenger's specific needs and desires, surroundings that are both comfortable and chic, and access to the secret cays and private ports of call that are hidden throughout the world's harbors.

Ponant, however, adds a special twist to that classic experience - a "French twist," if you will. Ponant operates cruising's only fleet of French-flagged ships, and that country's rich cultural heritage and egalitarian spirit is on display throughout each of the line's sleek and luxurious vessels, be it in the form of gastronomic delights or in the freedom that every guest enjoys to schedule (or not schedule) their time as they (and only they) see fit.

No two Ponant Explorations yachts are exactly alike (Le Ponant, with her three masts and her full sails, is particularly distinctive), but guests should expect to encounter all of Ponant's signature highlights regardless of which ship they choose to sail. Warm and welcoming environments are the norm, and a highly favorable staff-to-guest ratio ensures that every passenger receives the attention they deserve (Ponant caters to a maximum of 264 passengers per itinerary, and just a fraction of that total on any sailing aboard Le Ponant). Shipboard dining, be it formal or casual, honors guests' palates by honoring France's unrivaled culinary tradition, and a selection of fine wines (red, white, and rosé) are available free-of-charge during meals. Ponant's Franco flavor also extends to its onboard entertainment ("Parisian-style") and its spa and wellness offerings, which are provided in association with two of France's most legendary beauty houses.

En route to your destination, you're free to do as much or as little as you please. Sit back and relax on your ship's sundeck, alongside the pool, or in the privacy of your oceanview stateroom or suite. Join with other passengers in the games/leisure area, or prepare for your cruise's next port of call by attending a lecture/seminar conducted by a leading global or regional expert.