Ponant Explorations Group is expanding its portfolio with the launch of Ponant Yachting, a new brand joining its existing divisions: Ponant Explorations, Paul Gauguin Cruises and Aqua Expeditions. The new line is said to present “ultra-intimate experiences, combining sailing, sophistication and bespoke service,” according to the company.
The yacht fleet includes the existing Spirit of Ponant and La Desirade, with the debut of Spirit of Ponant II to follow. Each vessel has a guest capacity of only nine to 12 guests. The new catamaran is expected to launch in late 2026 and will become the line’s third yacht and 21st ship overall. All three yachts will travel to destinations in the Mediterranean, the Seychelles, the Caribbean and Polynesia.
“We are expanding our offerings in the luxury sailing segment for intimate, sophisticated and responsible voyages,” said Herve Gastinel, Ponant Explorations Group’s former CEO. “We are developing a unique world, where each experience is tailor-made: itineraries, gastronomy, excursions and more. This strategy is also embodied in the launch of our new brand, Ponant Yachting, which combines the intimate experience of sailing with the sophisticated and personalized services of Ponant Explorations Group voyages. This strengthens our unique portfolio of brands in the cruise industry.”
Spirit of Ponant II, constructed by Lagoon as part of its Eighty 2 series, will feature just five double staterooms and 4,596 square feet of living space to accommodate up to 10 guests.
Each all-inclusive Ponant Yachting experience includes a crew of four (captain, first mate, chef and hostess); personalized activities; a selection of wines and cocktails; fine dining and multiple nautical activities, such as stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, water-skiing, wing foiling, Tiwal sailing and Sublue diving.
To learn more about the brand’s new mission, we sat down with Samuel Chamberlain, CEO of Ponant Explorations Group Americas.
What prompted Ponant to enter yacht cruising?
Sailing is in our DNA and one of the founding tenants of our brand. We saw an opportunity to return to our heritage and venture into an exciting, new and underserved category.
Chartering a yacht is an overly complex process for the high-net-worth consumer — from finding a broker and understanding APA funds [advanced positioning allowance, or prepayment for the variable expenses of a charter], to contracts and trying to match the deployment. Ponant Yachting simplifies the yacht-charting experience while adding a reputable name to the space.
Samuel Chamberlain, CEO of Ponant Explorations Group Americas
Credit: 2025 Ponant Explorations GroupFor travel advisors who are used to selling traditional cruises, how do these yacht expeditions compare?
Yacht charter clients have a completely different mindset and booking behavior than cruise passengers. They desire spontaneity and freedom, so booking windows are generally much shorter.
For travel advisors, booking a yacht charter on Spirit of Ponant is almost as simple as booking a high-category suite on one of our other ships. Also, our travel advisor sales team will simplify the logistics of chartering a yacht.
How will Ponant differentiate itself in a growing yacht market?
Founded by French sailors more than 35 years ago, Ponant Explorations sets itself apart with a wealth of expertise, a pioneering spirit and a deep connection to the sea. We visit more than 120 destinations around the world, and our 20-plus small ships are industry leaders in innovation and sustainability.
The line currently operates two catamarans, with a third on the way.
Credit: 2025 Ponant Explorations GroupPonant Yachting marks a new chapter in exploration with a more personalized guest experience, infused with our unique French flair — a level of refinement that’s weaved into every detail, from our culinary programming to the ships’ design.
We are bringing a hard-branded sailing yacht concept to sea in a market category that is known for being fractured and complex.
We are bringing a hard-branded sailing yacht concept to sea in a market category that is known for being fractured and complex.
What is the brand’s fleet strategy regarding existing vessels versus newbuilds?
We're taking a strategic approach that involves both newbuilds and carefully selected existing vessels. By the end of 2026, our yachting fleet will comprise three catamarans: Spirit of Ponant, La Desirade and Spirit of Ponant II. Spirit of Ponant II will become the 21st vessel in our [corporate] fleet when it’s delivered in late 2026.
Who is the ideal client for Ponant yachts?
Our yachts best serve families and groups of friends who value exclusivity and the flexibility of a tailor-made experience, yet seek the ease of planning and [the] reliability of a hard brand. These travelers are drawn to sailing and want an intimate connection to the sea that can’t be replicated on traditional cruises.
Think of clients who would normally charter a private yacht, but want the added expertise, service and curated experiences that only Ponant Explorations can provide.