Ponant to Launch Two New Cruise Ships in French Polynesia for 2026-2027 Season

Ponant Explorations Group is set to enhance its offerings in French Polynesia during the winter season of 2026-2027 with the deployment of two cruise ships, allowing for increased capacity and itinerary options in the region.

Building on nearly thirty years in Polynesian waters with its ship Paul Gauguin, Ponant will introduce Le Jacques Cartier as a second vessel. This dual deployment aims to cater to different market segments, with each ship providing a unique operational profile and onboard experience.

Paul Gauguin, designed for navigating shallow lagoons and a staple in French Polynesia, will continue operations with 66 scheduled departures during the 2026-2027 season across its 165 staterooms and suites. The itineraries will focus primarily on familiar destinations such as the Society Islands, Tuamotu, and Marquesas, while also reaching out to the Cook Islands, Fiji, and Tonga.

Meanwhile, Le Jacques Cartier will serve as an expedition vessel aimed at exploring more remote and less-visited archipelagos. It will have nine departures, with a capacity of 92 staterooms and suites. Its itineraries will include destinations in the Tuamotu, Marquesas, Austral, Gambier, and Pitcairn Islands. Notably, it will offer three new "Discovery" itineraries, which can be combined into an extensive 42-night sailing spanning six archipelagos and 23 islands.

The development of these new routes involved preliminary reconnaissance conducted by José Sarica, who focused on the Austral and Tuamotu Islands to establish community-oriented shore programs. This effort has led to the introduction of six new ports and planned activities such as cultural welcomes, artisan-led workshops, and tours of marae, the sacred sites of the region.

From an operational perspective, Paul Gauguin and Le Jacques Cartier will feature differing onboard experiences. Paul Gauguin will maintain its cultural atmosphere with Tahitian hosts and optional shore excursions, supported by an onboard PADI-certified dive team. In contrast, Le Jacques Cartier will emphasize a structured expedition format, offering one guided activity per guest each day, led by local experts, with shore access utilizing tenders, local crafts, and zodiac boats.

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