Ponant Unveils Exciting French Polynesia Itineraries for Le Jacques Cartier (2026-2027)

Ponant Explorations Group has announced that it will introduce new winter voyages for the 2026-2027 season aboard the Le Jacques Cartier in French Polynesia, complementing its existing operations with the Paul Gauguin in the region.

The Explorer-class ship will offer two new 14-night itineraries that will set sail roundtrip from Papeete, running from October 2026 through February 2027. These voyages are designed to take guests to less-explored areas, including the remote Gambier and Austral Islands, places that are rarely visited by cruise ships.

In addition to the well-known Society Islands and Tuamotus, the itineraries will provide a broader exploration of French Polynesia’s archipelago, emphasizing regions that can only be accessed by smaller expedition-class vessels. This initiative aims to create a more immersive travel experience, showcasing the authentic wilderness and beauty of the islands.

Samuel Chamberlain, CEO of the Americas for Ponant Explorations Group, stated that the deployment of the Le Jacques Cartier represents a shift towards “more remote and more expeditionary” voyages, enhancing Ponant’s leadership in the region with a focus on authenticity, elegance, and adventure.

The journeys include a "Secret Polynesia: Society to Austral Islands" itinerary departing on October 18 and December 13, 2026, which will navigate through the Tuamotus, Gambier, and Austral Islands. Another itinerary, "From French Polynesia to Pitcairn Island," is scheduled for November 15, 2026, incorporating stops at the Tuamotus and Gambier before reaching the famous Pitcairn Island.

With these new itineraries, Le Jacques Cartier will operate alongside the Paul Gauguin from October 2026 to early 2027, providing an elevated expedition experience and expanding Ponant’s offerings in Polynesia.

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