PONANT SETS SAIL TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE AND LUXURIOUS FUTURE
Hervé Gastinel, CEO & Chief Sustainable Officer of Ponant, presents the latest developments in the luxury expedition cruise company. |
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PONANT SETS SAIL TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE AND LUXURIOUS FUTURE
Hervé Gastinel, CEO & Chief Sustainable Officer of Ponant, presents the latest developments in the luxury expedition cruise company. |
Category: Worldwide - Industry economy
- Tourism
Article written by Asia Abadie on 2025-02-24
 Hervé Gastinel, CEO & Chief Sustainable Officer of Ponant
Photo credit © Sylvie Leroy
As part of the prestigious Artemis Group, which owns renowned brands such as Gucci, Saint Laurent, and fine wineries like Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, Ponant operates in a truly high-end luxury environment. Since its inception 25 years ago, the company has grown significantly, boasting the largest market share in the luxury expedition segment, with a fleet of 14 state-of-the-art vessels and an annual guest count of approximately 65,000.
Expanding horizons: unique destinations
Ponant distinguishes itself from competitors with a portfolio of over 110 destinations worldwide. Unlike many luxury cruise lines that focus on traditional locations such as the Caribbean, Ponant offers a wider range of itineraries, with 25% dedicated to polar expeditions. It is currently the only luxury cruise line operating an icebreaker capable of reaching the North Pole. Notable milestones include a recent transatlantic voyage via the North Pole, demonstrating the company’s ability to navigate extreme environments and reinforcing its reputation as a leader in its segment.
Beyond the polar regions, Ponant continues to expand its offerings, including exclusive itineraries in remote destinations such as the Galapagos, Micronesia, and the Indian Ocean. The company is also strengthening its presence in Africa, with new sailings in Namibia, South Africa, and Tanzania, reflecting a strategic push into emerging luxury travel markets. These expansions underscore Ponant’s commitment to offering unique, immersive experiences that cater to the growing demand for sustainable and adventure-focused luxury travel.
Sustainability and innovation
Ponant’s fleet is a testament to its dedication to luxury and sustainability. The company operates a mix of sailing yachts, expedition vessels, and small cruise ships, all designed for intimate and immersive travel experiences. Notable vessels include:
- Le Ponant, a three-masted sailing yacht featuring a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, ensuring unparalleled service.
- Le Commandant Charcot, the only luxury polar-class 2 vessel in the world, designed by Jean-Michel Wilmotte and Jean-Philippe Nuel. This hybrid-electric vessel operates with zero emissions in sensitive polar regions.
- Paul Gauguin, specializing in French Polynesian voyages, is currently undergoing a sustainability-focused refit to reduce emissions and improve efficiency.
- The Spirit of Cologne, a newly launched intimate cruising experience, sailing in the Caribbean, Seychelles, and French Polynesia.
- Ponant recently introduced the Spirit of Ponant, a 24-meter luxury sailing catamaran designed to accommodate up to 12 guests across six rooms. This vessel is tailored to provide an intimate sailing experience, particularly appealing to younger travellers and families. Guests benefit from a dedicated crew of four, including a captain and a chef.
A vision for the future: the first zero-emission cruise ship
One of the most ambitious projects Ponant has undertaken is the development of the world’s first trans-oceanic zero-emission cruise ship. This vessel, part of the Swap2Zero project, is designed to set new standards in sustainable maritime travel by integrating multiple cutting-edge technologies:
- Wind-assisted propulsion systems, utilising advanced rigging inspired by the America’s Cup, allowing for optimised sailing efficiency.
- Hydrogen fuel cells, enabling the ship to operate entirely without greenhouse gas emissions.
- A multi-energy propulsion system combining battery storage, alternative fuels, and renewable energy sources to significantly reduce the environmental impact.
- State-of-the-art energy management and onboard recycling systems, ensuring resource efficiency throughout voyages.
This groundbreaking initiative has garnered strong support from European institutions and environmental agencies. The project has received substantial funding from the European Commission's Innovation Fund (INNOVFUND) and the French Department of Innovation, recognizing it as a major step forward in sustainable maritime transport. The vessel, currently in the advanced planning stages, is expected to launch between 2028 and 2030. Upon completion, it will become the 15th ship in Ponant’s fleet, flying the French flag and serving as a model for the future of emission-free cruising.
New destinations and market expansion
Ponant continually innovates by introducing new destinations. In 2025, the company will expand its footprint into the Galapagos Islands, one of the world’s most ecologically significant travel destinations. Additionally, increased itineraries in Asia and the Indian Ocean will solidify Ponant’s leadership in expedition cruising.
When asked about competitors, Gastinel noted that Ponant occupies a unique niche, blending high-end yachting experiences with true expedition cruising. While other companies specialize in either segment, Ponant’s diverse fleet and extensive itineraries set it apart as the only brand offering such a broad range of luxury expedition voyages.
A sustainable and luxurious tomorrow
Ponant is charting a bold course towards a sustainable future while maintaining its legacy of luxury and exploration. With a growing fleet, exciting new destinations, and a firm commitment to environmental responsibility, Ponant continues to redefine luxury expedition cruising. As the company gears up for its next chapter, travellers seeking exclusive, responsible, and extraordinary adventures will find Ponant leading the way.
 Ponant presents the latest developments in the luxury expedition cruise company
Photo credit © Sylvie Leroy
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