Ponant to Launch World's First Underwater Lounges

Come 2018, cruisers who dream of venturing beneath the waves may have that opportunity — no PADI certification or snorkel mask required. In fact, clients won’t even have to get wet.

This is the only place where you can see all four of Hawaii Island’s mountains: Kohala, Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa and Hualalai.

Four new expedition yachts from French luxury expedition cruise line Ponant will feature the world’s first underwater lounges, which will give clients a close-up view of the deep blue and the majestic creatures that live there. In addition to the large windows, the area will feature a bar and sitting area where guests will have a “multisensory” viewing experience.

1/6Star Clippers in Indonesia

Unlike most other cruise lines, Star Clippers involves guests in the behind-the-scenes operations whenever possible. // © 2017 Mindy Poder

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Guests can even steer the ship with assistance from a crew member. // © 2017 Mindy Poder

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Climbing the mast is another popular activity onboard Star Clippers’ ships. // © 2017 Charu Suri

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Star Clippers aims to sail rather than run its engine as much as possible. // © 2017 Mindy Poder

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Sails usually come down during port stops, so Star Clippers offers guests the opportunity to take a “photo safari” on a tender while the ship is at sea. // © 2017 Mindy Poder

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Due to the expedition-like nature of the ship, tenders are often used before making a water landing. // © 2017 Mindy Poder

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Underwater lounges will be present onboard Le Laperouse, Le Champlain, Le Bougainville and Le Dumont d’Urville, four Ice Class sister ships set to debut in 2018 and 2019. More details about the lounges will be revealed soon.

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